Morocco: Marrakech, Atlas Mountains, and Essaouira

Step into a tranquil oasis on the edge of Marrakech and explore the famous Menara Gardens, created by a dynasty of sultans more than 800 years ago. Discover traditional Moroccan irrigation and learn about the importance of water in shaping life in the region.

Explore the sights, scents, and traditions of a bustling Moroccan spice market as you discover the ingredients behind the country's most famous flavors. Create your own blend of Ras El Hanout while learning how spices have influenced Moroccan cooking, trade, and culture for centuries.

Step inside Marrakech's historic medina to discover traditions that have been passed down through generations. Visit the beautiful Ben Youssef Medersa, watch bread being baked using traditional methods, and meet local artisans demonstrating the vibrant dyeing techniques and craftsmanship that continue to shape the city's cultural identity.

The aromas of fresh herbs and fragrant spices set the scene for an authentic introduction to Moroccan cuisine. Guided by local cooks, prepare traditional recipes, learn about the cultural significance of shared meals, and enjoy the dishes you create together for dinner.

Stretching across much of Morocco, the Atlas Mountains are home to Amazigh (Berber) communities whose traditions have been preserved for generations. Spend time with local families and experience daily life through olive oil production, bread baking, traditional cooking, and the enduring role of Moroccan tea in welcoming guests.

From the fertile valleys of the High Atlas to the moonlike landscapes of the Agafay Desert, this excursion showcases the diversity of Morocco's natural and cultural heritage. Spend time with local farming communities, learn traditional crafts, and travel by camel for a firsthand look at the customs, livelihoods, and landscapes that have shaped life in the region for generations.

An important part of Moroccan culture, the hammam is a centuries-old wellness tradition centered on cleansing, relaxation, and community. Students will experience a traditional steam bath and black soap treatment while learning about a custom that remains a regular part of daily life across Morocco.

Native to Morocco, the argan tree has played an important role in local communities for centuries. Visit a women-led cooperative to learn how argan nuts are transformed into oil using traditional techniques, then sample local products while exploring the cultural and economic significance of this unique resource.

A guided exploration of Essaouira's UNESCO-listed medina reveals the many cultures that have shaped this historic Atlantic port city. Walk along the Skala of the Kasbah, discover the bustling fishing harbor, explore the medina's white-and-blue streets, and learn about the rich heritage of the city's historic Jewish Quarter.

Rooted in the cultural traditions of West Africa and Morocco, Gnaoua music combines rhythm, dance, and storytelling to create one of the country's most distinctive art forms. Learn about the history of this UNESCO-recognized tradition while exploring basic rhythms, movements, and the cultural significance of Gnaoua performance in Essaouira.

Golden coastal dunes and ocean views provide the backdrop for an exciting introduction to sandboarding along the Atlantic coast. With guidance from experienced instructors, glide down the dunes while experiencing the unique landscapes that make the Essaouira region a popular destination for outdoor adventure.

Travel along Morocco's Atlantic coast, where historic port cities, coastal lagoons, and centuries of cultural exchange have shaped the country's maritime heritage. Visit Safi, one of Morocco's oldest Atlantic ports, known for its fishing industry, maritime history, and renowned pottery traditions. Continue to the peaceful lagoon of Oualidia, celebrated for its oyster farms, wetlands, and abundant birdlife. Then explore UNESCO-listed El Jadida, a former Portuguese fortified city where European military architecture blends with Moroccan culture, revealing centuries of history preserved within its walls.