Your holiday starts at the hotel in Marrakech. On arrival at Marrakech Airport you'll be met by a KE representative who will transfer you to the group hotel. Depending on your arrival time and after settling in you may like to explore Marrakech which is a fantastic city and great for wandering.

Our adventure in Morocco kicks off with a morning guided tour of Marrakech. We start with a walk through the amazing labyrinth of souks. We'll be surrounded by a wonderful variety of fragrant produce including lemons, mint, olives, nuts, figs, and apricots. For souvenir hunters, the eye-catching lanterns, vibrant leather bags and shining metal work is wonderful. Traditional Moroccan leather slippers, called babouches, range from the very simple to the embroidered and jewelled, whilst the bright yellow ones are traditionally worn by men. Spice Square is a fantastic place to buy everything needed to make your tajine once back home. You have the afternoon free, possibly to go to the beautiful Marjorelle Gardens or another museum of Berber culture. This evening we can head out onto the famed main square of Djemaa El Fna. A hive of activity since 1050AD, this remarkable centre-piece comes alive after dusk. Housing an abundance of food carts filling the air with delicious smells ensures a wonderful experience. We can stroll through the illuminated food stalls which are popular with local families and tourists alike.

We head for the hills this morning. Leaving Marrakech behind, our drive takes us into the Ourika valley at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. This lovely location is home to the Ourika River, a saffron farm, and the only aromatic garden in Morocco. Harvesting at the saffron farm is organised by the ladies of the village. Each crocus is handpicked and separated by hand, making it one of the most expensive spices in the world. At the aromatic garden we find over 50 different varieties of aromatic and medicinal plants including fragrant beds of rosemary, lavender, thyme, peppermint, spearmint and roses. They are grown organically and used in soaps, shampoos and creams. We have lunch which includes fresh produce from the garden, fragrant herbs and Moroccan Argan oil. After lunch we drive to Imlil and to our riad in the hills. Not accessible by road our luggage is taking by mules for the 5 minute walk to the accommodation. Peaceful, clean and simple this riad has been a family business for decades and the small touches shine through. Time allowing we have an optional walk of around 2 hours to stretch our legs and get a sense on where we are in this beautiful country. Before dinner at our riad, there will be time to sit and enjoy the views from the panoramic terrace.

Today we walk in the local area, whilst surrounded by a fantastic backdrop of mountain terracing. We start by walking towards the village of Aremd (1907m) which has two primary schools and simple cafes selling cold drinks and refreshments. The valley is also known for fields of cherry, walnut, wheat and barley. Crops are grown on lush terraces which are irrigated by streams and mini dams running between the houses. This fantastic watering system is constantly being fed by the snow melting in the high mountains. Local farmers say that the lush pastures of the High Atlas make some of the best grazing land in Morocco and the result is happy local cows, sheep and goats! Our lunch, which we'll enjoy in the shade of walnut trees, is carried by the traditional pack animal of the Atlas Mountains, the sure footed mule. We will return to our traditional Berber riad in the early afternoon. We then have plenty of time to read a book on the terrace or enjoy the riads own hammam. This traditional hammam is a more a like a steam room, and a great experience. We have dinner at our riad and enjoy a second night here in the peace of the mountain village.

This morning we can enjoy another walk in this beautiful area. After our breakfast at the accommodation we set off in a different direction from yesterday. There are many walks here to choose from, and your guide will make a decision depending on the weather and the group. A good option is up to the pass, Tizi n'Tamatert, for some glorious views before heading back to the riad for some lunch. We then set of for the coast and the next part of our holiday, in the walled town of Essaouira. The drive is approximately 3-4 hours. In Essaouira we stay in a traditional riad, full of vibrant colours, quirky corners and fun seating areas. After dinner, which can be taken be taken at the riad or out in town, we can explore the evening cafe culture of Essaouira.

Today we'll enjoy a day around the spice-scented lanes and palm-lined avenues of the fortified medina of Essaouira. In the morning we have a guided walking tour. We'll pay a visit to the local fish market where locals come to buy the daily catch at its freshest. We'll stroll down to the harbour which is home to a fleet of local fishermen and be surrounded by an array of nets and boats being built in a wonderfully atmospheric little spot. After the harbour we'll wander the towering ramparts which surround the town. The afternoon we have free to explore. Essaouira is incredibly picturesque due to an array of white washed houses framed by the blue of the ocean. Dating from the late 18th century, the ancient centre was added to UNESCO's World Heritage list in 2001 and is a heady labyrinth of narrow streets, souks, bustling squares and whitewashed houses. As you explore more you'll come across relaxed squares nestled amongst hidden alleyways which all in all creates a wonderful atmosphere. Outside of the medina and a short walk away is a superb long sandy beach. This is a wonderful place late afternoon to walk and enjoy the sea views. A long promenade, which is popular with cyclists, walkers and runners, follows parallel to the beach. This evening you may wish to head out for dinner in one of the local restaurants which are popular for fresh fish or seafood.

This morning you have choices. Further time can be spent exploring the beautiful town of Essaouira or enjoying a walk on the windy, endless, sandy beach, or you can take part in a cooking lesson with the El Khir Women's Association. Women from vulnerable situations are trained here in to become chefs, pastry chefs and in housekeeping. Supplying experience and ultimately jobs. The cooking course will teach us how to cook a savoury dish, such as a tasty tajine. Lunch is included with the cooking class. Pre-booking is essential, payable locally. This afternoon we travel back to Marrakech. Our last evening of the holiday we can take ourselves to the main square after dinner to experience some of the vibe of the street food vendors and the buskers weaving their magic. A great ending to a delightful holiday.

Your holiday ends after breakfast. Depending on your flight time you may wish to enjoy a final stroll around Marrakech before your transfer to the airport. If you have any spare time, you may wish to extend your stay in Marrakech or we also offer a few days to the mighty Sahara Desert. Please contact the office for details.