Marrakech & Zagora Minitour
Marrakech & Zagora Minitour
Marrakech & Zagora Minitour
Marrakech & Zagora Minitour
Marrakech & Zagora Minitour
Marrakech & Zagora Minitour
Marrakech & Zagora Minitour
Marrakech & Zagora Minitour
Marrakech & Zagora Minitour

Marrakech & Zagora Minitour

From: 
Regular price
$1,725.00
Sale price
$1,725.00

Private Holiday
Private transportation - sightseeing with local English speaking guides
5 Days ex Marrakech
 

Departs Daily

Embark on a thrilling 5-day adventure through Morocco, immersing yourself in breathtaking scenery and timeless allure of the desert, and the vibrant energy of Marrakech. Transverse the scenic route in a 4x4 vehicle, navigating one of the most captivating roads in southern Morocco towards Zagora, often referred to as the “gateway to the desert”.   Experience the unique charm of camping in a Berber tent in Erg Lihoudi, traverse the captivating desert landscape of Lac Irikki, explore Ouarzazate renowned for its cinema studios and kasbahs, and finally return to Marrakech and dive into the lively atmosphere of the city with its kaleidoscope of colours and cultural experiences.

Day 1: Marrakech - Arrival

Welcome to Morocco. On arrival you will be met by a representative of our local operator and transferred to your hotel where your accommodation is reserved for one night with dinner and breakfast included. The remainder of the day is at leisure to unwind and absorb the colourful local atmosphere of this vibrant city

Day 2: Marrakech - Zagora - Erg Lihoudi (BD)

Embark on today’s journey by 4x4 vehicle bound for the Zagora desert, passing through Ouarzazarte and Agdz, gateway to the fabulous Draa Valley.  Optional lunch en-route. As you traverse one of the most attractive roads in southern Morocco, witness a lush expanse of palm groves lining the path to announce the start of a Saharian Oasis. The path is adorned with a mosaic of domestic vegetation, showcasing terraced cultivation of cereals, vegetables, fruit trees, dates and henna, all nourished by the Draa River.  

Upon reaching Zagora, a small town commonly referred to as the "gateway to the desert", delve into its historical significance. In the 14th century, the Saadians, descendants of the prophet and originating from Arabia, set out to conquer the Sahara, commencing from Zagora and extending their authority as far as Tombouktou. Continue your journey to M’hamid El Ghizlane and proceed to Erg Lihoudi where the night will be spent in the camp in a Berber tent*. Dinner at your camp then settle in for an overnight stay in the captivating surrounds of Erg Lihoudi

*Optional Upgrade - supplement applies:
Upgrade to a luxury tent at Erg Lihoudi camp (includes transfers, camelride and half-board) - Double - $150 per person
Single traveller - $190 per person

Day 3: Erg Lihoudi - Lac Iriki - Foum Zguid - Ouzarzazate (BD)

Start your morning with breakfast at your bivouac before setting out towards Foum Zguid, traversing the expansive desert landscape of Lac Iriki, known for its striking beauty. If luck is on your side, you might encounter a passing camel caravan during your off-road expedition – a truly remarkable experience! Optional lunch en-route. In the afternoon, explore Ouarzazate, famed for its cinema studios and kasbahs. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay in captivating Ouarzazate

Day 4: Ouarzazate - Ait Ben Haddou - Marrakech (BL)

Commence your day with an exploration of the renowned Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a cinematic gem that has graced the backdrop of many international movies and proudly holds UNESCO World Heritage status. Continue your journey to Marrakech, the second oldest Imperial city often referred to as “the Ochre City” and the “Pearl of the South,”.. Lunch will be taken at your hotel in Marrakech, before heading out for an afternoon filled with historical sightseeing. Discover the Menara Gardens, featuring a charming pavilion above a reflective pool, and then explore the Saadian Tombs, the Bahai Palace, the Koutoubia and the Dar Si Said Museum.

Optional: Dinner with show at Palais Dar Soukkar Marrakech: $140pp
The story of Dar Soukkar Palance, or "Sugar Palace", begins in the 16th century. The Dar Soukkar Palace was built on the ruins of a sugar factory. This Palace enjoys an idyllic setting and the food and entertainment showcases the grace and refinement of Moroccan hospitality

Day 5: Marrakech - Departure (B)

Today you will be transferred to Marrakech airport for your onward flight.

TOUR INCLUSIONS:

  • 4 nights accommodation in accommodation as per itinerary (or similar), half board basis
  • Arrival and departure airport transfers by private air-conditioned car (Mercedes Vita or Hyundai H1 or similar) with assistance
  • Air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle with driver at disposal during from Day 2 to Day 4
  • Sightseeing Marrakech with English speaking local guide
  • Meals as per itinerary – Breakfast daily, 3 dinners, 1 lunch
  • Entrance fees to relevant sites
  • VAT taxes
  • Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel

TOUR EXCLUSIONS:

  • International airfares
  • Optional meals as specified in itinerary
  • Optional tours and excursions
  • Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
  • Personal Expenses
  • Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
  • Departure taxes
  • Visas (unless specified)
  • Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above

Accommodation based on the below or similar

Marrakech

Value Class: Zalagh Kasbah

First Class: Palm Plaza Hotel Hotel

Zagora desert

Value Class: Bivouac Erg Lihoudi

First Class: Bivouac Erg Lihoudi

Ouarzazate

Value Class: Karam Palace

First Class: Hotel Riad Ksar Ighnda (Special Category)

Ramadan
During the Holy Month of Ramadan Muslims fast, abstaining from eating, drinking & smoking during daylight hours (approx. 7am-6.30pm). As a sign of respect, tourists should also try to refrain from these activities in public during the fasting hours. Restaurants and cafes in hotels will be open, however limited alcohol may be available over this time and is usually not served until after sunset and some riads and other locations may not serve alcohol at all during this period. In 2024, Ramadan should begin around 10 March. After 30 days, or on sighting the full moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated & most public and private institutions close for at least three days.  
 
Riads
Riads are traditional town houses typically build around an open courtyard. They offer a unique and authentic style of accommodation and usually feature less than 10 rooms. They are generally family-run properties with limited staff undertaking multiple roles and duties. Depending on their standard Riads may not offer all the facilities you would expect to find in a modern hotel. i.e. the Wi-Fi internet access may be limited, there may not be a lift and the breakfast is usually more limited in choices and does vary from Riad to Riad. But the unique and charming atmosphere and the location in the heart of the Medina make up for it. During the Ramadan period, services are more restricted in riads. If you prefer the full services offered by 5 star international hotels, please request an alternative itinerary on this basis.
 
Private touring in Morocco
On our private tours of Morocco, touring is by private air-conditioned car with a driver. Arabic and French are the main languages spoken in Morocco with English the 3rd and not often spoken language. Your driver will have some English capability, but is not a licensed professional guide and communication maybe basic at times.
 
It is important that if you have any issues in communicating that you contact the local representative office.
 
English speaking local guides will be organised by the driver in each city (as specified in your itinerary) in order to provide a more thorough commentary about the city they are a specialist of. Local guides will also help you should you require more information or recommendations on local restaurants or attractions. Please remember that Morocco is a large country and some days of touring will necessitate long periods of driving. There also may be times when, due to road conditions, the itinerary may vary slightly.  
 
If you prefer the services of a full time guide who will accompany you throughout your private holiday, please request this option.  
 
Morocco has a tradition of a multi course lunches, heavier and longer than what we are used to in New Zealand. If you prefer to have a lighter and quicker lunch, please ensure this is explained to your driver.
 

Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.