Marokko entdecken II

[die Tourbeschreibung ist momentan nur auf Englisch verfügbar]

Day 1
Marrakech
Marrakech, one of Morocco's favourite cities, is known as the country's ‘pearl of the south' and is surrounded by the spectacular peaks of the Atlas Mountains. Explore the maze of bazaars and spice markets, and indulge in a traditional mint tea or thick Moroccan coffee. In the evening you can visit Djemma el-Fna, the city's huge open air square that comes alive with fire-eaters, snake charmers, jugglers and musicians. You also have the option to visit the famous Ait Benhaddou, one of the most exotic and well-preserved Kasbahs in the Atlas region.

Day 2 to 6
Atlas Trek
We now begin our 5 day trek into the Atlas Mountains.
The Atlas Mountains is the greatest mountain range of North Africa, and it is a beautiful, intriguing region to discover. With a remoteness retained until only recently, the region contains villages where the way of life has changed little for centuries.All meals will be included during the trek. For information about what you need to bring please refer to the notes at the bottom of this dossier.

On Day 2 upon arrival in Imlil we commence our trek. We begin with an afternoon of easy hiking in the valley area, visiting the Berber village of Aremd where we stay overnight (1950m). Acclimatising gradually, we will have time to admire the beautiful scenery made up of rugged Atlas peaks and wild expanse. We return to Aremd for our overnight in the Gite (traditional rural retreat).

Day 3: Tizi n Tamatert – Ouansekra – Tachadirt – We will wander through the wilds further off the beaten track. Our mountain guide will point out the local fauna and interests of the surrounding area. Reaching the Tizi n Tamatert pass (2297m) on our way towards Tachadirt, we pass villages of the Massif Nimnane. You will also gain an insight into the agricultural traditions of the Mountain Berbers, the irrigated terraces reaching up high along the banks of the valley. We trek back to Aremd and stay at the same Gite overnight (this allows us to leave excessive luggage in the morning while we trek today).

Day 4: Amsakrou – Aguersioual – Taddert – Today you will see that these areas are simply a wonder to trek though. We will wind along at a slow pace passing traditional mountain huts and watching the scenery change before our very eyes. We trek back to Aremd to stay our final night here.

Day 5: Sidi Chamarouche – Neltner Refuge – We leave Aremd behind and trek to the beautiful area of Sidi Chamarouch. This is a quaint Berber village set beside a waterfall and small stream. You can view the impressive Jbel Toubkal, at 4167m the highest peak in the Maghreb. We then set off to the Neltner Refuge where we will stay in dormitory accommodation beneath a sparkling night sky.

Day 6: Toubkal – We have an early morning departure to hike to the summit of Toubkal, the highest peak in the Atlas Mountains at 4,167m. The ascent is not too difficult but you may encounter some steep, slippery slopes. The panoramic view from the summit makes the hard work worthwhile!
We will then return to the campsite for our last night in the Moroccan wilderness.

Day 7 to 9
Imlil - Marrakech -Casablanca - Rabat
We descend to Imlil where we leave behind the trails of Morocco, meet our transport, and head back to Marrakech. We then have one last chance to trawl the markets buying our final souvenirs and observe the snake charmers and voodoo medicine men.

On day 8 we head to Casablanca, Morocco's largest city and the site of the popular 1942 romantic film. Casablanca is a huge bustling metropolis that handles 60% of Morocco's total sea traffic. Here you can admire the French-influenced architecture, visit the Hassan II Mosque on the edge of the sea, wander by the impressive street stalls and browse the fruit and vegetable markets for a local delicacy.

On day 9 we travel by train to Morocco's capital, Rabat. The city is largely modern, but wandering the streets you will see several sights that hint of Rabat's rich past. There is a pleasant atmosphere here, and the city isn't as chaotic as larger Moroccan cities like Casablanca and Marrakech.
You have free time to enjoy the captivating sights of the Kasbah des Oudaias, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the Tour Hassan. You can also go shopping in the Medina, visit the Royal Palace and see the Archaeology Museum.

Day 10 to 12
Fes - Volubilis - Meknes
We travel to Fes; this vibrant city is full of colour and atmosphere. This is a great time to explore the old city maze, the winding streets, crowded bazaars, historic houses, and the stunning dye pits that make this city so unique. The TL will escort you to the Medina, give information and answer questions before allowing you free time to absorb the wonders of this fantastic city.

Day 11 is a free day to explore the magic of this ancient city. The Medina is one of the a great way to gain a true insight into Moroccan life, see the tradesmen crafting their ornate handicrafts, try some strong Moroccan coffee, and simply lose yourself in the maze of alleyways and intricacies within.

On day 12 we travel to Meknes, one of Morocco's four imperial cities, and also a brilliant place to explore. In the afternoon, we continue towards the Roman ruins of Volubilis, before returning to Meknes for our overnight. At Volubilis, the Tour Leader will give you information and then you can go off to discover this beautiful area.

Day 13 to 15
Marrakech
On day 13 we travel by train back to Marrakech. We spend several hours exploring the old areas of the city, with the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains. The Atlas Mountains are one of the most beautiful sights in Morocco, as you drive; sights of farmers, houses carved into the rock face, and deep valleys unfold. In the evening, you have free time to visit Jemaa el Fna - a huge open air square – where you have the chance to view fire eaters, snake charmers, and enjoy dinner ‘al fresco'.
The next day is free for you to absorb all the flavours, smells, sights, and tastes of this wonderful city. Why not try the local food stalls, wander the narrow paths of the Medina, shave a mint tea and watch the word go by, or failing that, shop till you drop!
Our tour ends after breakfast on day 15.