Morocco Souks and Sahara
Destination
Morocco
Duration
13 Days
Activity Level
Active
Comfort Level
Superior
On this adventure, you’ll explore Morocco’s imperial past and vibrant present. Travel from the Atlantic coast of North Africa through holy cities and Roman ruins, then into the desert and on to Marrakech. Explore the walled medinas (old cities), wander the fragrant suks (markets), stay in atmospheric riads (manor homes of the old cities), and engage the spirit of a land steeped in tradition that is also eager to embrace the future.
Begin in the port town of Tangier, then spend some time in one of the most charming cities in Morocco—Chefchaouen. See the Roman ruins of Volubilis and stop at Meknes. Wander deep into the ancient medina in Fes, experience the breathtaking desert vistas of the Sahara and Todra Gorge en route to Ouarzazate. Enjoy a few nights in beautiful Essaouira and behold exciting Marrakech where ancient history and non-stop street entertainment equally entrance those who are fortunate enough to spend time here. Your adventure ends in the famous city of Casablanca.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Mon, Dec 21 Arrive Tangier to Chefchaouen
On arrival in the Moroccan port of Tangier, the ancient gateway between Africa and Europe, you’ll be met and assisted with the transfer to Chefchouen (2 to 2.5 hours). This famous blue city of Morocco, located in the Rif Mountains, was founded in the 15th century as a small fortress when the Moorish and Jews fled here to escape the Reconquista of Spain.
On arrival, check-in to your charming riad, located near the Medina and Ras El Ma.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Riad Dar Echchaouen or similar
Day 2 - Tue, Dec 22 Chefchaouen Exploration
After breakfast, enjoy a tour of this “cool” blue town, home to about 40,000 people. Set at an altitude of almost 2200 feet on the outskirts of the Tisouka and Megou Mountains, this charming small town has little car traffic, which allows for clean and fresh air in which to discover its beauty.
Take a walk through the Medina and the Uta el-Hammam main square for an authentic look at Moroccan life. Along the way, visit the Kasbah Museum, which contains a modest collection of old arms, instruments, textiles, and city lodges, and enjoy a leisurely walk through its relaxing gardens. Be sure to admire Ras el Maa Waterfall, located east of the medina and often frequented by locals who use the waterfall to swim and wash clothes. You may even have the chance to visit a women’s co-op to see the women at work, and to purchase some of their artistry.
The afternoon is yours to do as you please in the relaxed atmosphere of the Rif Mountains.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Riad Dar Echchaouen or similar
Day 3 - Wed, Dec 23 Volubilis Ruins to Fes via Meknes
Today, head out to the Roman ruins at Volubilis (approx. 3 hr drive), considered the best-preserved archeological site in Morocco. You’ll spend time exploring these 2,000-year-old UNESCO ruins, and perhaps imagining what life must have been like during the Roman Empire.
Lunch will be at Meknes (approx. 1 hr drive), one of Morocco’s Imperial cities, where you’ll have time to explore. This town was the Ismailian capital during the 17th century and is now famous for its 25-mile-long walls and monumental landmark gate of Bab el-Mansour. Wander the lanes of the old medina, visit the Mellah Jewish quarter, and see the Royal stables. The Dar Jamai palace houses one of the country’s best museums, exhibiting glorious ceramics, jewelry, rugs, and textiles with distinct ornate Meknesi needlework. Enjoy the setting of this town in a region of olives, wine, and citrus.
Afterwards, continue the drive to Fes (1 hr drive), often referred to as “the cultural capital of Morocco”. Once there, get settled in your riad, a traditional home built in the 16th century by a professor of the Quaraouiyine University, restored to its former glory. It is located in the heart of the bustling Fes Medina.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Riad Fes Authentic Palace or similar
Day 4 - Thu, Dec 24 Fes Exploration
Today will be devoted to Fes, the world’s only walled medieval Arab city that remains completely intact. It may be cliché, but visitors often compare their first visit to the medina (the maze of shop-lined alleyways that comprise the old city) to an encounter with the tales of One Thousand and One Nights (a.k.a. the Arabian Nights).
The medina has UNESCO World Heritage status, and for good reason. Here, you’ll visit the King’s Palace, one of the best palaces in the country; the colorful leather-dying pits to see leather-making techniques unchanged since the middle ages; and a pottery workshop where you will have the chance to watch the craftsmen chip mosaic tile pieces and paint designs on plates.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Riad Fes Authentic Palace or similar
Day 5 - Fri, Dec 25 Atlas Mountains to Merzouga
After breakfast at the riad, you’ll leave Fes and begin the drive into the Atlas Mountains towards Ifran, referred to as “the Switzerland of Morocco,” and then on to Merzouga via Azrou and the Ziz Valley.
During this journey, you’ll experience glimpses of the Middle Atlas and Higher Atlas mountains. Stop at Azrou (1.5 hr drive), a Berber village in the middle of a famous cedar forest—the largest in Morocco—where you may spot Barbary apes (macaques). You’ll notice how the scenery changes to reveal hints of the desert as you approach the city of Errachidia to enjoy the Berber hospitality with a stop for lunch.
Continue on to Merzouga (6 hr drive) via the Tizi Ntalghamt Pass and along the luxurious Ziz Valley, stopping for panoramic views along the way. On arrival in Merzouga sometime in the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a glass of refreshing mint tea as you check into your very charming riad. The riad was built to resemble the Kasbahs of the south with all the modern amenities.
Total driving distance today will be approximately 265 miles, but with frequent stops along the way.
Overnight at a new and delightful Riad apartment complete with a kitchen, living room and a beautiful terrace that overlooks the city.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Apartment the Expert
Day 6 - Sat, Dec 26 Sahara Desert and Camel Trekking
After breakfast at the hotel, visit the Gnaoua people, originally slaves brought over from Sudan, to experience their music and lifestyle. Nearby is Merzouga Lake, home to many species of birds. You may also visit the nomad wire house, where many Berber handicrafts are sold at a much better bargain than in the big cities.
In the afternoon, mount your camels to explore the sand seas of Merzouga. You’ll be guided by an experienced camel man. You’ll have some time to do some sandboarding on the dunes. Enjoy a wonderful sunset over the golden dunes, then overnight in comfortable Berber tents with a private bathroom, a shower, and running water.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Bouchedor Luxury Desert Camp or similar
Day 7 - Sun, Dec 27 Todra Gorges and Dades Valley
Early this morning, you’ll wake to what may just be the best sunrise in your life, followed by a hearty breakfast. You’ll then take a jeep ride back to Merzouga. Enroute, be sure to appreciate the unique beauty of the spectacular Erg Chebbi sand dunes, changing with the light as the day progresses.
From Merzouga, you’ll be picked up by your guide and driver then depart for Rissani, Tinghir, and Todra Gorges—the highest and narrowest gorges in Morocco. Enjoy lunch in the heart of the gorge, then continue on through the Dades Valley, where you’ll see the majestic sand castles and the amazing rock formations known as “monkey toes.” Overnight accommodation will be in a lovely hotel overlooking the Dades valley.
Total driving time today is around 4 hours plus frequent stops (160 miles).
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Xalucadades or similar
Day 8 - Mon, Dec 28 Ouarzazate to Marrakech
After an early breakfast, depart for Marrakech via Kalaat Mgouna and Ouarzazate (war-za-zat) and through the mountains of the High Atlas. The route through Dades Valley is the way of the thousand Kasbahs—providing numerous opportunities to take some of your best photos.
Along the way, stop at Kalaat Mgouna, “the rose city,” to purchase local rosewater if you like, then on to the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, the largest kasbah in Morocco. The kasbah was built by Et Hami El Glaoui, one of the last Berber chieftains during the 18th century. It now houses many Glaoui people.
Continuing on, you’ll journey through the majestic Tizi n’tichka Pass (2260m) over the High Atlas Mountains, before arriving at your riad, located in the heart of Marrakech. If you like, spend some time this evening exploring the medina.
Total driving time today is around 6.5 hours plus frequent stops along the way.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Riad Elegancia or similar
Day 9 - Tue, Dec 29 Marrakech Tour
After breakfast in the riad, it’s time to start exploring Marrakech, “the red city of Morocco.” Your guide will ensure that you see the most important places of historical and cultural interest, such as:
- The 16th-century Saadian tombs where about 60 members of the Saadi Dynasty, including Ahmad al-Mansur and his family, are entombed.
- The 19th century El Bahia Palace, built in Andalusian, Islamic, and Moroccan style with materials used from throughout Morocco.
- The ruins of El Badi Palace, built in the 16th century by the Saadian Dynasty, which was constructed using some of the most expensive materials of its time including gold, onyx, and marble
- The Ben Youssef Coranique School, the largest Madrasa in Morocco, and once the largest theological colleges in North Africa, housing as many as 900 students at one time.
After lunch at a local restaurant near the square, visit the Majorelle Gardens, a 12 acre botanical and artist landscape garden that is home to more than 15 endemic bird species. The garden houses:
- The Islamic Art Museum and includes collections of ceramics, jewelry, and paintings by Majorelle as well as North African textiles from St. Laurent’s personal collection
- Menara Gardens, which contain orchards and olive groves that surround a pavilion built during the 16th century
- The Koutoubia Tower, designed in Almohad style and built of sandstone. This 250-foot high minaret can be seen from as far away as 18 miles.
This evening, you will have the opportunity to walk around the “Jemaa El Fna Square” full of magicians, storytellers, snake charmers, and food sellers.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Riad Elegancia or similar
Day 10 - Wed, Dec 30 Drive to Essaouira
After a leisure morning in Marrakech, you’ll head out this afternoon to the city of Essaouira (approx. 2.5 hr drive/112 mi), known as the “City of the Wind” for its strong winds most of the year that attracts surfers from all over the world. Because of its size and its characteristic blue doors and washed walls, it is also regarded as Morocco’s “Jewel of the Atlantics.” Along the way, stop in the lovely town of Chichaoua as well as the famous “Argan Tree Goats”.
Essaouira was influenced by many civilizations, including the Portuguese who had an effect on much of its architecture. However, it remains a small village with a great history and is a perfect example of a late 18th-century fortified town with its original cannons still in place. It is also where Orson Wells shot “Othello” in the “Moor of Venice” movie, and has appeared on the television hit “Game of Thrones.” Overnight in a lovely riad in Essaouira.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Riad Mimouna or similar
Day 11 - Thu, Dec 31 Essaouira Exploration
You’ll spend the day exploring Essaouira, beginning with a visit to the Skala Fortress (built for defense against attacks from the sea) and the port. You’ll also visit the souks and see Thuya wood carved by local artisans, and take a walk through the alleys of the medina to admire the hundreds of local handicrafts. Visit the Mellah—the Jewish headquarters—and enjoy the cool breezes on the beach where there is an annual festival known for “Gnawa music,” with many musical groups coming from different parts of Africa and the world. A highlight is a chance to see the local fish market in action where fisherman sell their catch of the day.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Riad Mimouna or similar
Day 12 - Fri, Jan 1 Drive to Casablanca
After breakfast, you’ll make your way to Casablanca (approx. 4-4.5 hr drive), one of the largest and most important cities in Africa. It is also the most cosmopolitan city in Morocco.
This afternoon, visit the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in the world, with room for more than 100,000 worshippers (entry fees to the mosque are not included.) The Mosque, built by 6,000 traditional Moroccan artists, contains intricate mosaics, stone, and marble floors and columns, sculpted moldings, and carved wood ceilings. Also experience the Cornich Coast (South Beach of Morocco), a boardwalk lined with restaurants and nightclubs where the locals go to have a bit of fun. This evening, you’ll have some free time to do as you like. Perhaps head over to the small but interesting medina and lose yourself among the shops and food stalls. Or, have dinner at Rick’s Cafe, modeled after the restaurant made famous by the classic movie, “Casablanca”.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Hotel Club Val Danfa or similar
Day 13 - Sat, Jan 2 Depart Morocco
After breakfast, transfer to the airport in for your flight back home.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
None
Dates & Price
Dates
This trip will be customized for you on your dates of choice.
For dates and customization options for this adventure, please contact us.
Best Time of Year to Visit
On this adventure, you’ll explore Morocco’s imperial past and vibrant present. Travel from the Atlantic coast of North Africa through holy cities and Roman ruins, then into the desert and on to Marrakech. Explore the walled medinas (old cities), wander the fragrant suks (markets), stay in atmospheric riads (manor homes of the old cities), and engage the spirit of a land steeped in tradition that is also eager to embrace the future.
Begin in the port town of Tangier, then spend some time in one of the most charming cities in Morocco—Chefchaouen. See the Roman ruins of Volubilis and stop at Meknes. Wander deep into the ancient medina in Fes, experience the breathtaking desert vistas of the Sahara and Todra Gorge en route to Ouarzazate. Enjoy a few nights in beautiful Essaouira and behold exciting Marrakech where ancient history and non-stop street entertainment equally entrance those who are fortunate enough to spend time here. Your adventure ends in the famous city of Casablanca.
Rates Per Person
Need to Know
Rates Per Person - 2020
Land Cost
$3,650
Alumni discount
-$200
Rates Per Person - 2020
Need to Know
Notes:
- Though we do our best to ensure your accommodations at the hotels given are the places you will stay, but last-minute changes are possible and sometimes unavoidable.
- For the camel trekking, we recommend consulting with your physician about riding if you are over 70, pregnant, or if you have had a recent surgery or serious sickness. Those with hip, back, or knee problems should first consult with their physician.
- Some areas such as Chefchaouen and the desert are “dry” and may not have wine or other alcoholic beverages available. If you wish to purchase alcohol, ask your guide to help you make a purchase in one of the larger cities before heading out to the dry areas.
- Rugs and carpets are beautifully handcrafted in Morocco and your local guide in Fes and Marrakech may encourage you to purchase a rug. You are under no obligation to do so and it is best to speak up if you feel pressured. If you do decide to purchase a rug, keep in mind that they are all painstakingly hand-made, but you should still plan on bargaining. Don’t be afraid to bargain and negotiate!! Low-quality and cheaper rugs can also be purchased in the markets.
We are happy to have you participate in a Journeys International program!
Please read these terms and conditions thoroughly. They contain information that will be important to your planning and guide how we will handle any circumstances that may change in the midst of planning or while a program is underway. If after reading our materials and talking with our staff you decide to participate in a Journeys International program, please send us your deposit along with your completed Reservation Form and Explorer Information Forms. Important: Your booking is only complete once we receive your deposit, completed Reservation Form, and completed Explorer Information Form, and once we have confirmed that space is available.
Pricing and Payment
We will confirm your reservations once we receive a non-refundable booking deposit, a Reservation Form signed by each person responsible for payment, and an Explorer Information Form signed by each participating adult or the guardian for each participating child, and if space is available. Custom programs during holiday seasons may require a deposit prior to confirmation. The deposit contributes to non-recoverable costs of holding space and servicing your booking through the stages of preparation, execution, and follow-up and cannot be refunded if you choose to cancel.
We charge an additional planning fee of $250 per program for preparing customized proposals. This fee may be credited to your total cost upon booking, but it is non-refundable if you choose not to finalize your reservation.
Prices are stated in U.S. Dollars, based on double room occupancy, unless otherwise noted. We will send an invoice for your total estimated cost when we send your reservation confirmation. The balance as shown on your invoice is due 60 days prior to your program start date regardless of whether any arrangements are still pending. Although we do our best to avoid increasing prices after we receive your deposit, in some cases it may be necessary to adjust pricing after we receive payment to allow for changes in group size, rooming status, currency exchange rate fluctuations, fuel surcharges and/or other circumstances attendant to the challenges of adventure.
Late payments may jeopardize confirmation of your program participation and in some cases may result in additional fees. If we have not received final payment 30 days prior to departure, then your reservation may be canceled subject to our Cancellation & Refund Policy stated below.
Payment for airfare is required at the time of ticketing. Discounts that may be available are not available toward bookings made through third-party travel agencies, advisors, or planners.
We accept payments by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or check drawn on a U.S. bank account. Paying by credit card offers you certain consumer protections, including the ability to initiate a chargeback if you believe we have committed consumer fraud. You may not use credit card chargeback as an alternative to compliance with your agreement with these terms and conditions.
Late Signups
Early reservations are encouraged! Some programs and flights fill several months in advance. We can confirm your space once we receive your deposit and signed Reservation and Explorer Information Forms. We try, but cannot guarantee, to accept late signups. In the event that we are able to accept reservations fewer than 60 days before a program’s start date, additional fees may apply to cover administrative costs necessary to expedite your reservation confirmation and transmit your program materials. For reservations made fewer than 60 days in advance of your program’s start, full payment is due at the time of booking.
Program Changes
We understand that circumstances arise that lead you to inquire about changes to your custom program, and we aim to satisfy your requests. Once activities and accommodations have been confirmed, we charge a $50 change fee, in addition to the difference in costs for the services booked. When changes are requested less than one week before your program’s start, the change fee is $100. For changes requested after a program has begun, the change fee is $200.
Journeys International reserves the right to change or reprice any program due to acts of insurrection, strikes, weather, road conditions, acts of God or government, or any other force majeure or cause beyond the company’s control. Journeys International cannot guarantee conformity with the provided program plan at any point in time. Among other things, if necessary Journeys International may change the scheduled dates of a program; omit or alter sections of the plan; substitute lodgings, leaders, or conveyances; or change meals, activities, or waypoints; all without notice and without allowance for refunds and with participants bearing the responsibility for increased costs, if any. Should this become necessary, Journeys International will not be liable for extra costs that participants may incur as a result of changes, including but not limited to flight change fees, additional meal costs, or additional accommodations. We strongly recommend that participants purchase Travel Protection Plans, or travel insurance, adequate to cover such costs.
Cancellations & Refunds
If you must cancel before your program begins, please notify Journeys International in writing by emailing info@journeysinternational.com or writing to your adventure specialist directly. You may request a refund according to the following schedule. Some programs require additional non-refundable payments beyond this schedule, as noted in the program description. In the case of cancellation, such amounts are withheld in addition to the amounts listed here.
Days Prior to Departure | Cancellation Penalty |
---|---|
61 or more | Non-refundable booking deposit and planning fee, if applicable |
31-60 | Non-refundable booking deposit and planning fee, if applicable, plus 50% of total land costs above amount of initial deposit |
0-30 | 100% of total land costs |
Please note: cancellation of airfare, other transit, lodging, and ticketed tours and activities is subject to the policies of the individual carriers or providers and is not included in the schedule above. Additional cancellation fees are the responsibility of the traveler. We strongly recommend that all participants purchase Travel Protection Plans, or travel insurance, that includes coverage for trip cancellation or interruption and that may reimburse you for cancellation penalties and extra expenses should a circumstance force you to cancel or interrupt your participation.
Departure is defined as the date on which travelers will leave their home state, province or city, or the program start date as indicated on the program description, whichever comes first. Cancellation date will be considered the date that we receive written notification of your intent to cancel according to the local time observed in Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Payments due at the time of cancellation remain the responsibility of the participant. No partial refunds are possible for unused hotel rooms, air or land travel, program days, or other sight-seeing arrangements included in the land cost.
If Journeys International cancels or postpones a program before the program starts for reasons completely within its discretion, such as but not limited to insufficient group size, all money for services described in the program description will be refunded in the form of credit towards a future program with Journeys in the same location originally planned, less unrecoverable fees and penalties already paid to airlines, accommodations, or other service providers, or the client may submit a written request for a refund to the original form of payment. If a program’s cancellation is necessary due to acts of insurrection, strikes, weather, road conditions, acts of God or government, or any other force majeure or cause beyond the company’s control, credits and refunds will be issued according to the standard cancellation schedule, less unrecoverable fees and penalties already paid to airlines, accommodations, or other service providers, without regard to whether client or company initiates cancellation or postponement. Once a program begins, there are no refunds for unused goods or services.
Air Fares
We can help you to secure air travel arrangements for Journeys International programs. We work with an airfare consolidator to assist in booking the flights that suit your needs. Journeys International and/or the airfare consolidator may charge a ticketing fee for this service. For group programs, if you prefer to fly on dates other than those listed as program dates, or if you arrive at your destination other than at the group arrival time, then you may incur additional fees to cover the separate transfer, contingency, and coordination costs which frequently arise from arrival and departure on flights different from our regular bookings. We will let you know about these fees ahead of time, if they apply. If you must change your air routing after ticketing, there is a charge of $50 per change, in addition to change or cancellation charges levied by the airline.
If you decide to make your own flight arrangements, you must provide Journeys International with a complete copy of your itinerary showing departure and arrival flights and times. You should plan to arrange your own air travel if you are using mileage credit or originating outside North America, but please be in touch with our office before you finalize ticketing so that we may help you to coordinate the correct arrival and departure dates and times. If you arrange your own flights, we can book ground transfers to meet you on arrival in your destination if you wish, and you agree to pay additional costs, as applicable.
Transfers Between Programs
You may transfer between some programs upon written request. More than 60 days before your program start date, the deposit transfer fee is $100 per person plus any cancellation fees charged by airlines, hotels, or ground service providers. 60 days or fewer before the program start date, full cancellation penalties from the original program apply. In the event that Journeys International cancels a program, you may transfer the full amount of your payments to another program without penalty, subject to availability.
Expenses Covered
Normally, our stated total costs include the costs of all guides, leaders, facilities, permits obtained after arrival, lodging accommodations, costs of described activities, food as specified, and all surface transportation associated with the activities described in the itinerary. We do our best to avoid increasing prices after receipt of your deposit, but factors beyond our control might require us to change our prices without prior notice, even after you have signed up.
Expenses Not Covered
Costs not included in the price may include: meals not indicated as included in program descriptions; meals prior to arrival in starting cities; transfers, if not arriving or departing on the scheduled group flights; soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages; medical expenses, costs of hospitalization, or evacuation from remote areas; laundry; airport departure taxes not included on your airline ticket; accommodations en route to starting cities; visas; airfares; gratuities; and insurance.
If a program must be modified due to medical emergency, acts of insurrection, strikes, weather, road conditions, acts of God or government, or any other force majeure or cause beyond the company’s control, then the participant may incur additional costs that are not included in the program price. We strongly recommend that all participants purchase Travel Protection Plans, or travel insurance, to cover these risks.
Travel Insurance
Journeys International strongly recommends that you purchase a Travel Protection Plan, or travel insurance, sufficient to protect your investment in travel, personal assets and health during your program. Doing so will mitigate a significant amount of financial risk and decrease your need to worry about things beyond your control. We do not require you to purchase such travel insurance; however, we know many travelers who have benefited from purchasing travel insurance because the insurance carrier assumed risks that would otherwise have been the risk of the traveler. Travel Protection Plans often cover things like theft, baggage loss, trip interruption or cancellation, emergency evacuation, emergency medical treatment, flight delay or cancellation, airline or service provider bankruptcy, jury duty, personal or family sickness leading to cancellation, U.S. Department of State Travel Warnings about terrorism issued for the destination, and other risks as described in the insurance policy. In particular, consider the availability of higher-cost “Cancel for Any Reason” and/or “Interrupt for Any Reason” policies that may allow policy-holders to recoup a significant portion of trip costs under a much wider range of circumstances than standard policies may allow; we have seen travelers benefit from this selection when public health crises, personal turmoil, and civil unrest arose in their destinations. Please note that while we at Journeys will do our best to help you to have a pleasant and successful experience, Journeys International assumes no liability for many of the types of losses described above. If you choose not to purchase travel insurance and you suffer a loss, then you will be responsible for the associated costs.
For your convenience, we will provide a recommendation for an insurance carrier that offers competitive rates and has proven reliable, fair, and prompt in responding to claims, but we can offer no guarantee that our recommended carrier will meet your needs and you are welcome to contact any insurance carrier that you prefer. It is important to obtain insurance immediately upon signing up for your program in order for problems arising from pre-existing conditions to be covered.
All participants must be covered by a current major medical insurance policy that covers you while in your travel destination for the duration of your trip. For some individuals or for some destinations, it may be advisable to purchase a supplemental policy. Contact your provider for coverage details.
Group-Sized Pricing & Group Minimums
Many programs are guaranteed to depart at prices published on our website with as few as two participants. In some cases, it may become necessary to increase prices depending on the size of the group. We do everything we can to make a program operate as planned even with a single participant. Additional costs for small groups vary from program to program. When pricing for a group program is based on the number of participants, staff and guests of Journeys International (such as topic experts, journalists, photographers, leaders-in-training, or others) are not included in the numbers counted to determine the price. Final decision to cancel a program due to insufficient signups is made at least 60 days prior to departure.
Lodging Accommodations
Lodging accommodations are usually double occupancy in hotel rooms, tents, or other facilities as described in trip itineraries. Please contact our office to discuss pricing and availability of alternative accommodations, if desired. We try to honor specific requests for lodging, but in some cases, we may have to book and confirm equivalent-standard accommodations. In rare cases it may become necessary to make same-day or out-of-class substitutions.
If you are joining alone for a group program but would prefer a roommate, then let us know! We are often able to match solo participants. If a roommate is not available or if you prefer single accommodation, then you must pay the Single Supplement, if one applies. For some programs it is not possible to guarantee single accommodations.
Assumption of Risk
Throughout any program of Journeys International, certain risks and dangers may arise. These include, but are not limited to, travel by train, foot, automobile, aircraft, raft, boat or other means of conveyance; the hazards of traveling in rough or mountainous terrain; high altitude; undeveloped areas; the forces of nature; civil unrest; terrorism; labor interruption; close proximity to fellow program participants; exposure to illness or virus; and accident or illness in remote areas without means of rapid evacuations or availability of medical supplies and facilities. The unique nature of adventure programs entails inherent risks that may be involved in unique program activities and travel away from home and, in fact, the specific nature of these activities is often a reason for participation. Even if a trip or program is rated “easy” these dangers and risks are present. Journeys International and its agents and operators will have no liability regarding emotional distress, equipment, access to, or adequacy of medical care, evacuation plans, or emergency supplies that may be provided. When you sign the Explorer Information Form, you agree to participate in these activities with full knowledge of the dangers and risks involved and agree to assume all risks, including trauma, sickness, injury, and death.
While Journeys International intends that your experience be safe and comfortable, Journeys does not have legal or operational control or ownership of facilities, staff, services, or transportation providers and acts only as agent for the owners of such facilities, staff, services, and transportation. Journeys International is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act by any such person or entity, nor for any act or inaction of any third party not under its control.
In consideration of the right to participate in Journeys International programs and the service arranged for you by Journeys International and its agents and representatives, you unconditionally and fully assume all risks of bodily injury, death, emotional trauma, property damage, and/or theft, however caused, including those mentioned above, as a result of participation, and release Journeys International, its agents, and its representatives from any and all liability, actions, causes of actions, suits, debts, demands that you may have, including for bodily injury, death, or property damage, loss of income, and other claims.
Fitness to Join
Good physical and mental health are essential for the enjoyment of Journeys International’s programs. It is your responsibility to select/design a trip appropriate to your own abilities and interests. You are responsible for being in sufficiently good health to undertake your trip, and for consulting with your physician for medical advice regarding travel. On some Journeys International programs, participants travel in rugged areas remote from modern medical facilities. Good physical conditioning is recommended as preparation for all programs, especially those involving hiking or trekking. Most programs require some walking. By signing the Explorer Information Form, participants certify that they are fit for rigorous activity and do not have any physical, mental, or other condition that would create a hazard for him/herself or other participants. It is essential that any participant with a medical condition requiring regular treatment or which may be affected by vigorous activity, prolonged travel, high altitude, heat, cold, natural phenomena, or particular foods, notify Journeys International in writing prior to booking. We assume no responsibility for medical care, and we cannot guarantee meeting special dietary requirements or vegetarian needs. Participants may be required to furnish a physician’s statement of good health for some programs.
Journeys International’s or the individual group leader’s or guide’s judgment shall provide the ultimate determination of an individual’s fitness to embark upon, or to continue, a program. Journeys International reserves the right to refuse reservations or deny participation to anyone whom it deems unsuitable for a program or certain activities. Once a reservation has been confirmed, medical circumstances will not be considered as exceptions to our cancellation policy. All participants must be covered by a current major medical insurance policy for the duration of their participation. Proof of such coverage may be required.
Personal Conduct
You are responsible for acting in a manner considerate and respectful of fellow group members and local culture in areas visited.
You are responsible for reading all health-related information provided in advance of the program, adhering to all guidance given by guides and site staff, and conforming to the established standards of personal hygiene to minimize risk of disease. This may include a requirement to wear a face mask when in proximity to other people, whether indoors or outdoors, or other measures intended to limit the spread of disease; failure to do so when requested may result in your dismissal from the program.
Certain activities included in your program may require specific safety precautions. You are responsible for listening to instructions, adhering to guidance, and following the protocols provided for safety throughout the program. If you are unsure about safety precautions, you are responsible for seeking advice. If guides or staff perceive your behavior as risky, uncooperative, or otherwise unsafe, they may remove you from an activity for the safety of yourself and others.
Smoking or vaping are not permitted in buses, cars, below decks on boats, in tented camps, in designated non-smoking areas, or during guided tours and activities. Participants agree not to consume cannabis for the duration of the program and understand that possession or use of cannabis may be illegal and subject to severe punishment in some destinations. Participants agree to follow all local laws in the jurisdiction(s) where the program takes place and acknowledge that Journeys International cannot be responsible for ensuring participants’ compliance nor for any costs or consequences of non-compliance.
Sexual harassment or misconduct of any sort by Journeys program participants is not tolerated. You may not make jokes or sexually suggestive comments or gestures regarding the bodies or bodily activities of fellow participants, program staff, site staff, or any people you encounter during your program. You may not touch fellow participants, program staff, site staff, or any people you encounter during your program unless invited. You may not solicit sexual services during the dates of your participation in a Journeys program.
Environmental Stewardship
Journeys International believes that we have a responsibility to protect the earth for future generations. Tourism may be responsible for up to eight percent of annual worldwide emissions of greenhouse gasses. Journeys International advocates that adventure travelers who make environmentally conscious choices when selecting their destinations and activities should also make the environmentally conscious choice to offset the carbon footprint of their travel to compensate for their personal contributions to global climate change. Every Journeys International invoice includes an optional donation to the Earth Preservation Fund’s carbon offset program to be used to purchase and permanently retire certified carbon credits to offset the carbon footprints of Journeys’ program participants. The Earth Preservation Fund purchases carbon credits that have been certified under a reliable third-party standard. Participants who choose to make this donation may also be eligible to claim a tax deduction. There is no penalty for opting out of this donation.
Recording
Journeys International may take photographic, audiographic, and videographic recordings during your program, and may use your image and voice for promotional and commercial use without compensation.
Planning & Preparation Services
We look forward to working with you! After we receive your deposit, we will send you a planning packet containing things like medical and immunization information, visa and other permit forms, a recommendation for travel insurance, packing checklist, reading list, cross-cultural information, and an initial invoice for the balance due. About 3 weeks before your program begins, we will send you a final notes packet including last-minute reminders and contact information for your program. You are responsible for reading all information provided, and for bringing all clothing and equipment noted on the packing list. If you are leaving home before the scheduled trip departure date, please let us know how we can best reach you in case any details change in the days immediately prior to your program’s start.
Please call our office at any time if you have questions about your trip or for additional information.
Duration 13 Days
The number of days, or duration, in a destination corresponds with the itinerary as published. This is the time period covered by the land cost.
Group Size 9-10
Comfort Level
Superior
Charming 4* riads and modern hotel in Casablanca
Activity Level
Active
Easy walking with optional hikes; a couple of long driving days; camel ride
Activity Level
Match the trip’s intensity to your ability and motivation.
Gentle
Easy walking, with opportunities for low-key physical activity.
Active
Energetic exploration with optional day hikes, leisurely cycling, or light canoeing.
Vigorous
Day-long active excursions and options for demanding activity in varied environments.
Challenging
Strenuous hiking or other intense activity that may be at high altitude or over rough terrain.
Demanding
Multi-day trekking and other activities requiring endurance or strength. Steep trails. No technical expertise necessary.
Comfort Level
Choose accommodations and amenities that fit your personal style
Simple
Our most natural accommodations. Bath facilities often shared, sometimes rustic.
Delightful
Comfortable and especially personal. Small to mid-sized lodges, typically with private bath.
Superior
Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined artistry, or extra-special settings.
Deluxe
Exclusive or luxury lodges, hotels, or safari camps with fine dining options.
Uncommon
The most indulgent accommodations arranged specially for private trips.