Marrakech & Atlas Mountains
Marrakech Medina - Atlas Mountains - Marrakech PalmeraieCombine the bustling souks of colourful Marrakech before experiencing the timeless Berber culture and stunning views in the High Atlas Mountains.
From the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas Mountains to the bustling souqs of Marrakech and the undulating dunes of the Sahara Desert, Morocco is both diverse and absolutely absorbing. Enjoy insider experiences, stunning landscapes, unique cultural interactions and a host of extraordinary moments on one of our luxury Morocco holidays.
Morocco is, above all, diverse and absorbing. Travel from the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas Mountains to the bustling souks of Marrakech and the undulating dunes of the Sahara Desert. Enjoy insider experiences, stunning landscapes, unique cultural interactions and a host of extraordinary moments on one of our luxury Morocco holidays. Most importantly, all our tours to Morocco are private, and we use the finest possible expert guides. Furthermore, we have designed a range of wonderful immersive experiences and will tailor-make your itinerary around your interests. We have also handpicked a portfolio of characterful boutique hotels and riads, covering a wide range of budgets and styles.
On a first-time trip to Morocco, you might well start with a visit to Marrakech. It was a city that stood on the historic trading route from the Sahara to the Mediterranean Coast. Exotic, beguiling, and bustling, it sits just below the mighty Atlas Mountains. Delve into the labyrinth of souks of the Medina. Afterwards, emerge at the Djemaa El Fna, a swirling carnival of musicians, fire-eaters, storytellers and snake charmers. We love to show you the hidden souks, going far beyond the areas where the tourists usually reach. Maybe try our street food experience, or head out in side-cars to see the city. Nothing quite prepares you for a dramatic hot-air balloon flight over the nearby Agafay Desert.
Just outside of Marrakech, you will find the dramatic Atlas Mountains. We know the best Berber villages where you can see this timeless culture in all its authenticity. Our walking holidays in Morocco can be both easy-going or more active. These range from gentle walks in the foothills to the ascent of Mount Toubkal. Beyond the Atlas Mountains, you find lush valleys of palms and dramatic Kasbahs (fortified houses). This part of Morocco becomes increasingly off-the-beaten-track. Delve a little deeper, and you reach the dunes of the vast Sahara Desert. We know the best small tented camps and lodges to make your Morocco desert adventure unforgettable.
For those wanting a longer cultural tour, we can combine the great imperial cities of Rabat, Tangiers and Fez. These hidden parts of Morocco are perfect for those revisiting the country for a second time and wanting a more specialist tailor-made journey.
The coast is, of course, where many trips to Morocco end. Visit the quaint fishing town of Essaouira, and immerse yourself in its artsy souks and Medina before kicking back in one of the superb fish restaurants. Wherever you travel in Morocco, we’ll be right there with you, making sure your luxury Morocco holiday is both authentic, innovative and something you won’t forget.
This is just a selection of suggested itineraries that are there to help you with your ideas and to start the conversation with us about planning your tailor-made holiday. All our holidays are private for you and your party, and can depart on any day you like. We can adapt and change any element of these journeys, or design an itinerary from scratch around your travelling plans.
Combine the bustling souks of colourful Marrakech before experiencing the timeless Berber culture and stunning views in the High Atlas Mountains.
A trekking holiday in the Atlas Mountains allows you to walk through timeless Moroccan Berber villages and along dramatic scenic valleys overlooked by the towering peaks. You’ll be staying in the best possible lodges and boutique hotels.
Explore the bustling souks of Marrakech, the breathtaking scenic beauty and Berber villages of the Atlas Mountains and the sleepy fishing town of Essaouira. In short, this brief taste of Morocco is an ideal first visit to this vibrant country.
Fez and Marrakech are undeniably Morocco’s most iconic and evocative cities, packed with all the magical charm that makes Morocco so mesmerising. This itinerary allows you an immersive experience of both, and additionally, some gentle R&R in the mountains to conclude your trip.
There is something impossibly romantic in delving into the great dunes of the Saharan Desert. Nights under canvas, sunsets and camel rides; experiences that undoubtedly make you feel like you have escaped.
Marrakech makes for a beautiful long weekend from any European city. With five days, you will have plenty of time to both explore and relax. The weather is perfect in the winter, and you can also immerse yourself in a fascinating culture.
Memory Road is an exclusive four-wheel drive luxury adventure through the off-the-beaten-track delights of southern Morocco, which quite simply takes the experience of Morocco to a whole new level.
Morocco in Style: A Luxury Adventure is quite simply the most stylish way to see this incredible country. You’ll stay at the most iconic hotels, and by taking a private helicopter, delve deep into Morocco’s hidden interior.
This private family holiday in Morocco is packed with experiences your children will adore. Morocco is the closest destination that will allow your children to immerse themselves in a different culture.
This comprehensive private tour of Morocco brings together the sights and sounds of this fantastic destination, and the chance to discover more than the well-trodden paths around Marrakech.
This is just an overview of the hotels and lodges we feature, from characterful boutique lodges to luxury hotels. We do have a range of other hotels that we use, so if you don't see from our portfolio what you are looking for, we almost certainly know about it and can help plan an itinerary using it.
Le Farnatchi is located in the heart of the Medina and is unquestionably one of the finest Riads in Marrakesh. It perfectly blends contemporary living with traditional Moroccan architecture.
Berber Lodge is a superb boutique hotel located south of Marrakech under the backdrop of the High Atlas Mountains.
A former fortress-palace, the Kasbah du Toubkal perches a rocky pinnacle surrounded by Morocco’s High Atlas‘ snow-capped peaks. Peaceful is too flimsy a word to describe such a tranquil spot. The silence and stillness are almost tangible and work wonders for refugees fleeing the clamour of twenty-first-century life.
Scarabeo Camp is an idyllic luxury tented camp in the Agafay Desert, just an hour’s drive from Marrakech. The views up to the Atlas Mountains are stunning.
Dar Zemora is a gorgeous six-bedroom boutique hotel in Marrakech in Morocco, located in the Palmeraie and just 15 minutes drive to the Medina.
Kasbah Tamadot is arguably the most luxurious hotel in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. It has set the bar in terms of service and style, making for an indulgent few days in the mountains.
La Sultana Oualidia is a luxury boutique hotel located on Morocco’s Atlantic Coast between Casablanca and Essaouira.
Riad Kaiss is a gorgeous, boutique, yet affordable riad located just a short distance from the Djemaa el-Fna square in Marrakech in Morocco.
The Mandarin Oriental is one of Marrakech’s foremost luxury resorts, located in peaceful landscaped gardens just outside of the city, yet within easy reach of the bustling souks and Medina.
Kasbah Bab Ourika is a luxury boutique hotel located in the Ourika Valley in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains.
Riad Fes is the most arguably Fez’s most iconic, upmarket riad. Grand, traditional, yet chic and luxurious, Riad Fes seems to blend old and new, trendy and stylish with effortless ease.
Once a garden in Marrakech was so beautiful that the Sultan gave it to his son, Prince Moulay Mamoun, as a wedding gift. You will now find the iconic La Mamounia in that idyllic garden.
Riad Kniza is a beautifully renovated luxury riad located in the heart of the Marrakech Medina.
The Azalai Desert Camp is located in the Chigaga Dunes, about a three-hour drive away from the desert outpost of Zagora in southern Morocco.
Azalai Lodge is located in the picturesque Draa Valley, close to the small desert outpost of Zagora, deep in the south of Morocco.
Dar Maya is a boutique Riad located in Essaouira in Morocco. It is a chic and sophisticated option, blending contemporary style with Moroccan craftsmanship.
The Dar Ahlam Nomadic Camp in the Iriqui National Park is a beautiful place to experience the majesty of the Sahara Desert in style.
The Azzaden Trekking Lodge is located in Aït Aïssa, about a 4-7 hour trek from Imlil. Azzaden is perfect for those wanting a night, or two, completely off-the-beaten-track in the Toubkal Massif.
Maison Rouge is a private three-bedroom house located in Aojou (near Issafen) in southern Morocco. It is usually the third stop on Dar Ahlam’s Memory Road (also known as the La Route De Sud), and you will be the only guests here.
La Maison Des Arganiers is a private whitewashed house in the village of Azrarag overlooking the Argan Valley.
La Maison De L’Oasis is a stunning collection of two Berber houses located in the palm groves of Tighmert in southern Morocco.
The first Aman resort in Africa, Amanjena lies just outside Marrakech in a striking earthen-walled oasis of all-pervasive serenity.
The Sofitel Essaouira Mogador is a luxury resort hotel located just outside of the Essaouira overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Domaine Malika is located in the picturesque Ouirgane Valley in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. It is a lovely 8-bedroom boutique hotel.
Dar Ahlam is one of Morocco’s hidden gems. It is a luxury Kasbah located in the off-the-beaten-track village of Skoura.
The Four Seasons Casablanca is a luxury city hotel located right on the Atlantic Ocean, offering possibly the city’s best accommodation.
Les Jardins De Skoura is a beautiful boutique bolthole located in the pretty village of Skoura, about 45 minutes from Ouarzazate. You generally stop here for a couple of nights on the way back from a stay in the Sahara Desert.
Jnane Tamsna or ‘Big Garden’ is a stylish 24-room boutique hotel located in Marrakech’s Palmeraie. You are just a 20-minute drive to the Medina.
Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp is in the heart of the dramatic dunes of Erg Chebbi in Morocco.
This is a selection of experiences that allow you to see the destination in new and interesting ways. Almost all our experiences include a private guide, and can be then tailored to your particular interests. Indeed, many of the experiences we offer are created individually for our guests, so this list is by no means conclusive. In fact, we leave a couple of our best ideas up our sleeves for when you enquire with us.
Discover Marrakech, a city that lies under the dramatic peaks of the Atlas Mountains and has for centuries been a trading post between the deserts of the Sahara and the ports that traded with Europe. Within the heart of the city, you find the Medina. This labyrinth of narrow alleyways are a delight to wander through. Known as souqs, you will pass by traditional marketplaces and artisans at work. The main square, Djemaa el-Fna, comes alive at sunset.
The Atlas Mountains are known to the local Berber people as ‘Idraren Draren’ or Mountain of Mountains. The High Atlas runs 1000km from the Atlantic Coast near Agadir to Khenifra in the northeast. Most guests tend to explore the area to the south of Marrakech, and we can also offer tailor-made itineraries to more remote areas, including the anti-Atlas Mountains.
Once you cross the Atlas Mountains, you enter Southern Morocco and the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert. There are two exceptional destinations to visit if you are considering visiting the Moroccan Sahara. The first is Merzouga and the vast dune of the Erg Chebbi. These lie to the south of Fes, about an 8-9 hour drive over the Atlas Mountains.
Fez and northern Morocco is an area that is perfect for a second-time holiday to Morocco. Fez offers a far more authentic taste of Morocco, with the Medina and souqs offer a glimpse of the timeless charm that many people seek when visiting Morocco. This area is fertile and has been for centuries the breadbasket …
Morocco’s Atlantic coast stretches from Cape Spartel right down to the border with Western Sahara. You find Morocco’s capital, Rabat, and its financial centre in Casablanca, the fishing village of Essaouira and Oualidia.
Guide to our Morocco Luxury Holidays
Most importantly, our luxury Morocco holidays and tours are fully customisable and conducted privately. For example, you can arrive and depart on any day you choose. Furthermore, we can arrange flights, or allow you to do these directly, or through air-miles.
We always start with a blank sheet of paper when designing your holiday. Above all, the best way to start is by calling us for a quick conversation about how we can make your trip to Morocco exceptionally special. For instance, let us know what you want to see in Morocco and your particular interests, maybe where you have enjoyed travelling to in the past. As a result, we can then craft an itinerary that totally fits around you.
Furthermore, we can arrange small group travel tours to Morocco. Therefore, if you get together a personal group, the per person prices tend to drop drastically.
In addition, we only use the most modern vehicles and expert guides throughout your time in Morocco.
We also have a longer guide which you might like to read.
Our Tours in Morocco
Other Important Links
Generally, January is a reasonably good time for a tour of Morocco. The daytime temperatures in Marrakech are about 18°C. As a result, it will be pretty chilly at night. The wildflowers are in full bloom in the Atlas Mountains. Furthermore, the mountains are also snow-capped. Temperatures in the Atlas Mountains will only get to about ten °C in the daytime. Morocco's desert areas are colder, especially at night. The Rif Valley (for example, Chefchaouen) gets a lot of rainfall in January.
The temperatures are getting warmer in February. In Marrakech, daytime temperatures are up to 20°C. Furthermore, it is about 12°C in the Atlas Mountains. It's an excellent month to do a touring itinerary into the desert. Moreover, nighttime temperatures have increased a little.
March is a perfect time to visit Morocco. Temperatures in Marrakech have risen to 23°C. Besides, they are about 14°C in the Atlas Mountains. Furthermore, it will be about 19°C in Essaouira on the coast.
April and May are some of the very best months to visit Morocco. Firstly, temperatures in Marrakech are at 26°C. Secondly, they are a pleasant 17°C in the Atlas Mountains. Thirdly, it's also pleasantly warm on the coast. It's getting much hotter down in the desert, getting up to about 29°C.
May is again excellent in Morocco. Firstly, Marrakech basks in daytime temperatures of 29°C. Secondly, it's 21°C in the Atlas Mountains, meaning that it's possible to start thinking about treks at higher altitudes. The desert areas begin to get much hotter, getting up to 33°C. Therefore it is the last month you should be considering a trip here.
Above all, June is a crossover month. Firstly, temperatures in Marrakech are up to 33°C. Therefore it becomes scorching in the heat of the day. As a result, we suggest opting for a hotel with a pool! Secondly, it's a lovely 25°C in the Atlas Mountains. Therefore, you can easily spend a few days here before heading to the coast. The temperatures on the beach are a pleasant 21°C.
July is when temperatures rocket in Morocco. Marrakech bakes in temperatures of 38°C in the daytime. You will find it slightly better in the Atlas Mountains, at about 30°C. Therefore, it's best to opt for a hotel with air-conditioning and a pool. It's a popular time to make the ascent of Mt Toubkal. It's still a perfect time to stay on the coast, where temperatures only reach the mid-twenties.
August is again sweltering. Much like July, Marrakech will be seeing temperatures approaching 40°C. That said, the coast is still fantastic. Therefore a combination of the Atlas Mountains and the beach would work well.
September is when things cool down in Morocco. Firstly, temperatures in Marrakech drop to a lovely 33°C. Secondly, it's 25°C in the Atlas Mountains. The desert regions start to cool down to about 34°C, so definitely possible to visit.
October is another one of the best months for a luxury Morocco holiday. Marrakech is almost perfect, with daytime temperatures of 34°C. The Atlas has almost perfect trekking temperatures at 19°C. The desert temperatures drop down to 29°C.
November is an excellent time to visit Morocco. The Atlas Mountains starts to become snow-capped. You can sunbathe in temperatures of 22°C in Marrakech, whilst seeing this fantastic view. Up in the Atlas, the daytime temperatures are 14°C. There it is ideal for proper trekking holidays rather than sitting out! The coast is still warm, with a gentle 21°C. Furthermore, It's a great month to visit the desert.
December starts to get chillier. Temperatures in Marrakech drop to about 22°C. It's cold in the Atlas, especially at night. However, it is ideal for day walks if you have a few layers first thing in the morning.
The best time to visit Morocco is from late March to May and late September to November. The temperatures are pleasant, allowing you to explore the country quickly. That said, there are some deviations in weather to consider. The coast gets a constant temperature of about 20 degrees throughout the winter and in the summer remains cool enough to enjoy. It only gets up to a maximum of about 25-30 degrees. If you want to go on a high altitude trek, such as climbing Mt Toubkal, it’s best to do this from June to September. It tends to get very hot in Marrakech and Fez in July and August. It gets a little chilly from late November to early February, especially in the Atlas Mountains. Finally, the desert also gets cold at night during these months.
We arrange totally bespoke trips and design an itinerary that is designed around you. You may have seen a suggested itinerary that we can base your plans around, or we can start with a blank sheet and paper and design something from scratch. You can leave a phone number and suggest a time to call you back, and we can also arrange to do this during the evenings or at weekends if you are busy during the daytime. We can also meet up with you in you fancy a coffee and are based in and around London.