Essaouira's medina is one of Morocco's nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites
FROM: USD $1,445 pp

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR TOUR: Spend a cracking Christmas exploring the Atlas, snap up some bargains in the souks of Marrakech and ring in the New Year beachside in Essaouira, on Morocco's stunning Atlantic coast.

Inclusions
Itinerary
Prices & Dates
Hotels
COVID Safe Guide
Reviews

Trip Highlights

Marrakech - UNESCO-listed Place Djemaa el Fna, (medina and marketplace)
Jebel Sarho and Dades Gorge - A striking valley and stream cut within the mountain range
Merzouga - Camel trek and Berber style camp
Essaouira - Ancient medina, wind swept beaches and current day fishing village
High Atlas Mountains and views of snow capped Mt Toubkal
Erg Chebbi sand dunes - The beginning of the Sahara
Ait Benhaddou - UNESCO-listed fortified kasbah city

Included

Breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 5 dinners inclusive of a traditional Berber meal at our Sahara camp
Guided sightseeing - Merzouga, Dades Gorge, Ait Benhaddou and Marrakech
Essaouira - Beachside bliss and free time
Specialist local guides at some sites
All transportation and transfers in private air-conditioned tourism vehicles
9 nights 3-4 star hotels and 1 night camping at a Berber desert camp in the Sahara Desert (hotel upgrade available)
Camel trek into the Sahara Desert
Escorted by a licensed English speaking Moroccan tour guide
Arrival transfer from Marrakech Airport on day 1
All road taxes and tolls

Not Included

International flights and visa
Note: On some road journeys, the tour leader may not be in your particular vehicle
Tipping Kitty: USD$30-40pp, paid in USD or local currency
Tip for your tour guide and driver. We recommend you allow USD$2-3 per day, per traveller for your guide and USD$1-2 per day, per traveller for your driver. Tipping your guide and driver is an entirely personal gesture
Entrance Fees: USD$30-50pp, paid in USD or local currency

Itinerary

Day 1

Marrakech

23 December. Welcome to Morocco! Arrival transfer from Marrakech airport to our hotel. This evening (at 19:00) our welcome meeting takes place, where you'll meet your tour leader and fellow travellers.
Overnight: Marrakech

Day 2

Ait Benhaddou

Marrakech – Ait Benhaddou – Skoura. This morning we drive onwards to the legendary Ait Benhaddou - a ‘fortified city’ situated along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech, boasts some beautiful examples of ancient kasbahs. Only a handful of which remain inhabited. Granted UNESCO World Heritage listing, this incredible site had been the setting for many films including Gladiator. After exploring Ait Benhaddou we travel onwards to Skoura where we have an evening at leisure.
Overnight: Skoura  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

Xmas Day in Dades Gorge

Skoura – Dades Gorge. Merry Christmas! We spend the morning visiting the kasbah Amherdhil before continuing to Gorge du Dades in the Dades valley. On arrival we take some time to explore the gorges, palmeries and kasbah ruins. We then have the evening to relax before enjoying a great Xmas dinner in the beautiful surroundings.
Overnight: Dades Gorge  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

Discover the Sahara

Todra Gorge - Erg Chebbi. Crossing Jebel Sarhro, we enjoy lunch and a swim before travelling down to Erg Chebbi sand dunes, the start point of the mighty Sahara Desert. The Erg Chebbi dunes located near the remote frontier town of Merzouga are renowned for their incredible height and size. In parts the vast sand pile reaches skyward to heights of 150 metres!

The desert winds ensure this astonishing landscape is forever changing and no two days offer the same panorama. Mounting our camels, we trek across the vast rolling dunes of the Sahara and take in the breath-taking scenery. Arriving at our simple Berber camp, we enjoy dinner and a night under the Saharan stars. Wrap up warm and remember your winter weight sleeping bag.

If you would prefer the comfort of a hotel with en-suite facilities this evening, opt for our Sahara hotel alternative at no additional cost. Please do let us know your preferred option at the time of booking.
Overnight: Merzouga  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5

Ouarzazate

Erg Chebbi – Agdz – Ouarzazate. Today we travel through Mercissi and Nkob in the Saghro Moutain region, passing the incredible rock formations and wells that have been dug over centuries by the nomads to get access to water, along the way. Onwards to the small town of Agdz, with its Palmeries, ancient Kasbahs and incredible views of Jebel Kissane Mountain. Our final stop of the day is Ouarzazate – Morocco’s film capital, where we lay our heads for the evening. Tonight, dinner is a group affair.
Overnight: Ouarzazate  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

Ait Benhaddou

Ouarzazate – Tarouddant. We begin our day taking in the landscape of saffron fields as we make our way to Talouine, where we visit a local saffron farm. Later, we continue to Tazenacht, where we visit a carpet cooperative to learn the art of carpet making before finally stopping in Tarouddant, the former berber capital and our home for the night.
Overnight: Taroudant  |  Breakfast

Day 7

Agadir

Tarouddant – Agadir. This morning we have some time to enjoy a guided tour of Tarouddant’s souks. We spend the afternoon driving past banana plantations and fruit orchards along the coast as we make our way to Agadir, a quaint town along the coast which was destroyed by the 1960 earthquake. Here, we have the remainder of the day at leisure to wander around the harbour and perhaps try some of the fresh fish.
Overnight: Agadir  |  Breakfast, Dinner

Days 8-9

New Years Eve by the beach

This morning we continue along the coast until we reach Essaouira. With a laid back vibe Essaouira is Morocco’s hippest coastal town. The windswept fishing port, broad beaches and ancient walled medina with ramparts built into the cliff have long been a favourite refuge for artists, sculptors, food lovers, surfers and backpackers. The medina surrounded by a fortress with 5 main gates you can navigate by, has retained its traditional styles and is laden with quirky shops, coffee houses, antiques, art studios, calligraphers, t-shirt designers and souvenir curios. There’s a relaxed feel to the place and shopping here is a real delight. Locals and visitors alike enjoy strolling along the ramparts as the sun sets. The port is a hive of activity with fishing boats hauling in their daily catch.

On the evening of day 9 - New Year's Eve we'll all head out together for dinner and a few drinks.
Overnight: Essaouira  |  Breakfast x 1

Day 10

Happy New Year

Essaouira - Marrakech. Happy New Year! This morning is spent at leisure, sleep in or head to beach for your first swim of the year. This afternoon we stop at a local Argan oil cooperative en route to Marrakech. On arrival in Marrakech, we enjoy a guided tour of the bustling medina.
Overnight: Marrakech  |  Breakfast

Day 11

Marrakech

02 January. Spend the morning relaxing or picking up a few last minute souvenirs. Our tour concludes upon hotel check out at 12 noon.
Breakfast

Prices & Dates

Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to those who don’t have anyone to share a room with or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.

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Christmas departure - book early!
Christmas Departure
New Year's departure, book early!
New Year's Departure
Available
Contact us to book
Not Available
2022
Twin Share
Single Room
23 Dec - 02 Jan Christmas departure - book early!
Christmas departure - book early!
New Year's departure, book early!
New Year's departure, book early!
USD $1,445
USD $1,995

Extra Prices

Twin Share
Single Room
Pre Tour Accommodation - Marrakech
USD $125
USD $195
Post Tour Accommodation - Marrakech
USD $125
USD $195

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

Adam Park Hotel & Spa, Marrakech

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Guests can expect a very comfortable stay at the Adam Park Hotel & Spa. Each of the elegant rooms feature a patio or balcony with views of the surrounding area. Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining. Several restaurants offer a variety of options including Italian specialities, Moroccan favourites and international cuisine. There are also plenty of ways to unwind after a day exploring Marrakech, with an outdoor pool, fitness centre and a spa offering rejuvenating massage treatments.

Dellarosa Hotel Suites & Spa, Marrakech

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Just a short walk from the medina, Dellarosa Hotel Suites & Spa tastefully blends modern architecture with Moroccan authenticity. Guest rooms are tastefully decorated with comfortable beds and excellent en suite facilities. The hotel also has a restaurant Organza serving up a delicious array of Moroccan and International dishes as well as a bar for a tasty beverage or two. Those looking for some pampering should head to the onsite spa and wellness centre.

Kasbah Ait BenHadda, Skoura

Our Category: Standard   |   Regional Category: Standard Riad

Nestled in the heart of the Skoura pal grove, the Ait Benhadda boasts incredible mountain views, and stunning terraces and garden to enjoy the landscape. All guest rooms are en-suite and air-conditioned and are equipped with a satellite TV. Guests can cool off by the pool or taste some of the Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant.

Kasbah Tizzaouirine , Dades Gorge

Our Category: Standard   |   Regional Category: 3 Star Hotel

Overlooking Oued Dades, Kasbah Tizzarouine offers rustic Moroccan accommodation. Guest rooms vary from the quirky cave rooms to the more palatial Berber suites. The hotel also includes an outdoor pool and seating on a beautiful terrace giving great panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valley. Staff at the Kasbah are very helpful and the restaurant comes with great recommendations. Those who are in to local music can enjoy and join in with drumming sessions that take place each night.

Desert Camp, Merzouga

Our Category: Simple   |   Regional Category: Standard Camp

Set amongst the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi, the Berber camp is designed with a traditional Moroccan theme. The permanent tents include multiple beds and electricity (after night fall) Camping out in the desert is a wonderful experience, due to the lack of light pollution, the stars come out in abundance and really are a sight to behold.

Riad Hida, Taroudant

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: Mid Range Riad

The Riad Hida is a charming oasis in Taroudant, set in beautiful gardens. The restaurant serves traditional Moroccan food and there is a hammam, where guests can unwind after a day exploring the city. The rooms are a good size and come with stunning, authentic decor and plush furnishings, ensuring a comfortable night's sleep. With its central location, the Riad Hida is within easy reach of most tourist attractions and is next to the arab and berber souks.

Hotel Cote Ocean Mogador, Essaouira

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Perfectly located on the beach of Essaouira, with wonderful sea views. This hotel is just a 10 minute walk from the Othello Garden and offers a private beach area, onsite restaurant, sun terrace, outdoor swimming pool and a bar. Car rental and bike hire is available for those that would like to get out and explore this picturesque area. The rooms feature air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV and a private bathroom. Sea view rooms are available, please enquire.

Riad Zahra , Essaouira

Our Category: Standard   |   Regional Category: Standard Riad

Located in the residential district, the Zahra offers calm, relaxation and a peaceful stay. Its comfortable guestrooms are decorated in traditional Moroccan style and are equipped with an en suite and satellite TV. The property has a restaurant serving Moroccan and international specialities. There is another restaurant that serves grilled dishes. Riad Zahra is an ideal starting point for nautical activities or to discover Essaouira and the surrounding area. For your entertainment, the hotel proposes numerous activities including desert trips in a 4x4, surfing and kite surfing lessons.

Reviews

Travellers have rated this tour as 5 out of 5 based on 2 recent reviews

1  |  2

Jamal is a fantastic guide, knowledgeable and passionate about his country and able to answer all our questions. Nothing was too much bother and both Jamal and Sliman made sure that we had the best possible trip. I felt very safe with Sliman's driving. Thank you!

Hilary Thain • Submitted 21 Jan 2020

My wife and I had a marvelous time in Morocco! We would recommend it to all of our friends and family – and we would especially recommend that they request Jamal as their tour guide. He was an even better tour guide than we could have hoped for. Not only was he knowledgable about the sites, sounds, and people of Morocco, he was also quick to get the group laughing and having a good time. He knew how to read the group and adapted to our moods and interests. He made the trip truly special and memorable. Wouldn't have changed a thing!!!

• Submitted 07 Jan 2018
Tour
Guide
Country

I have had a wonderful time. Morocco is a beautiful country and I believe this tour gives a very good idea of the beauty and diversity in it. Thank you.

Kristian Thompson • Submitted 21 Jan 2016

Jamal was a great guide. His knowledge of Morocco is outstanding and really added to the trip's good value. He has a good sense of humor and a good command of English. The tour was a success because of him. I also think the itinerary was well planned, a good mix of activities and scenery.

Mary Masterilli • Submitted 21 Jan 2016

Our tour guide jamal was very helpful, knowledgeable, good humour, patient and looked after us very well. Sliman is a very safe and competent driver, he didn’t take risks on road and was very friendly and helpful. I will miss them both.

Katrina Hill • Submitted 21 Jan 2016

We had the best tour guide ever. He went over and above to see that the needs of the group were met. He was always cheerful and really, he is your best asset. I would look after him if I were you! The tour would have been a lesser one without him.

Mary Mcclory • Submitted 21 Jan 2016

The tour had a good mix of mountain, shore, city and desert. We covered a lot of ground, saw a lot of things, and had a lot of adventures - but without being too much. Our guide, Jamal, was very personable and added a lot to the tour with his knowledgeable commentary. The group size (12 people) was just right. The accommodations were very good. I would recommend this tour and On The Go to my family and friends. Looking forward to joining you on another adventure!

• Submitted 15 Jan 2016
Tour
Guide
Country

Just back from my most awesome New Years experience ever. I was on the Morrocan Surf the New Year and it was more than I could have ever expected. The group was great, our guide was brilliant and finishing in chilled out Essaouira was the best way to finish this tour. Thanks so much On The Go, already planning next years New Year trip with you guys.

Sim Piromalli • Submitted 18 Apr 2012

Thanks for a brilliant Christmas and New Years On The Go. Morocco is a fantastic place and I highly recommend it to anyone and everybody. So impressed with On The Go - I have already booked an ANZAC tour with you guys. Thanks again.

H Mclean • Submitted 18 Apr 2012

Thanks On The Go for my best trip ever. This was my third trip with you guys and you never fail to impress. Keep up the good work.

John Malcom • Submitted 18 Apr 2012
1  |  2

In Brief

Range
Trip Type
Starts
Marrakech
Ends
Marrakech
Departs
23 December
Group Size
Min 4 / Max 24
Hotel Rating
3 - 4 star hotels & traditional riads
Tour Guide
Yes, - escorted by a tour guide
Meals
Breakfast: 9, Lunch: 4, Dinner: 5
Visiting
Marrakech, Skoura, Dades Gorge, Merzouga, Ouarzazate, Taroudant, Agadir, Essaouira, Ait Benhaddou, Todra Gorge, Erg Chebbi
Countries
Click to play videoBeautiful sky over the famous Djemaa el Fna in Marrakech
Click to play videoSand coloured kasbah in Ait Benhaddou
Click to play videoThe rocky sides of the cliffs in Todra Gorge
Click to play videoCamel walking through the Erg Chebbi sand dunes
City walls of Ouarzazate
The walls that surround the city of Taroudant
Aerial view of the Agadir coastline
The walled city of Essaouira sitting on the edge of the water

Extra Tour Info

Visiting the Sahara
Our guide to visiting the Sahara Desert in Morocco
Updated
3rd January 2020

Jamal is a fantastic guide, knowledgeable and passionate about his country and able to answer all our questions. Nothing was too much bother and both Jamal and Sliman made sure that we had the best possible trip. I felt very safe with Sliman's driving. Thank you!

Hilary Thain
OTG000485New Year's in Morocco - 11 DaysMiddle East & North AfricaSignatureMiddle East & North Africafalse0Moroccohttps://www.onthegotours.com/Morocco/New-Years-in-Morocco-11-Dayshttps://www.onthegotours.com/repository/Essaouira-coastal-town--UNESCO-sites-in-Morocco--On-The-Go-Tours-333701487941708_crop_flip_300_300_f2f2f2_center-center.jpgGroup_Tours