When Not In The Guidebooks and Minty Highway offered a small group of agents the chance to experience a condensed version of a fantastic Moroccan itinerary, I was one of the first to say yes.
Morocco had been on my travel wish list for years, partly because it was a favourite destination of my late grandfather and my brother, who visited regularly before his accident. This trip felt like a way to connect with them and honour the memories of the adventures they cherished so much.
From the vibrant souks to the serene beauty of the Sahara, Morocco is a land that has truly captured my heart. Here’s a glimpse into my journey and how you can experience it, too!
I flew out with Ryanair and back with EasyJet, both offering direct flights from Bristol and Birmingham. Having not flown Ryanair for years, I was curious to compare the two airlines for short-haul comfort and service. While both were spacious enough, EasyJet edged ahead for me - their adjustable armrest on the window seat gave me those extra inches in width that really make a difference. Every inch counts!
Marrakesh – The Red City
Our adventure began in Marrakesh, a city alive with colour and culture. Walking through the Medina’s bustling streets, I was struck by the energy and vibrancy of the souks. The aroma of spices, the chatter of artisans, and the bright, handcrafted treasures made it a sensory overload in the best way possible.
Sadly, our time here was brief, with just a few hours to explore before moving on. But it was enough to leave me eager to return and explore this incredible city further.
Into the Atlas Mountains
The journey continued into the breathtaking Atlas Mountains, where winding roads led us to small, picturesque villages seemingly untouched by time. I was lucky enough to meet locals who greeted me with warm smiles and cups of traditional mint tea, a simple and warm gesture of Moroccan hospitality.
The views from the mountain passes were unforgettable - soaring peaks and lush valleys that showcased Morocco's natural beauty and the simplicity of rural life.
The highlight of the day was a stop at the incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou. You might recognise it from blockbuster movies like Gladiator, but nothing beats seeing it in real life!
Walking through its ancient streets, you can almost imagine the traders and warriors who passed through this fortress on their desert journeys. I didn’t make it to the top of the Kasbah, but sitting in this glorious setting with a fresh coffee while waiting for the others was more than enough for me.
Sahara Desert
No trip to Morocco would be complete without an adventure in the Sahara Desert. I spent a truly incredible night in the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, and let me tell you - it was like stepping into another world.
The Sahara was everything I had dreamed it would be. On the way to Merzouga, we stopped at Todra Gorge, a dramatic landscape of towering cliffs with a gentle river running through. The small market stalls along the way offered beautiful textiles, and it was a relaxing stroll before heading into the desert.
When we arrived, I was faced with a choice: ride a camel or take the 4x4 transfer to camp. As a larger lady, I was nervous - there was a real fear of being the proverbial “straw that breaks the camel’s back.” But the team reassured me, and I decided to go for it.
And I’m so glad I did. Riding my camel (I named him Simba after my dog!) through the golden dunes as the sun was setting was nothing short of magical. By the time we reached Madu Luxury Camp, the scene felt like something out of a dream. Lanterns and candles lit our path across the carpeted sands to refreshing drinks and snacks before we were shown to our beautiful tents - far more luxurious than I could have ever imagined.
And the night? The sky was alive with stars, and we gathered around the campfire, enjoying traditional Berber music that felt like it echoed through time. Completely content, well-fed and surrounded by the stillness of the desert, I had one of the best sleeps I’ve had in a long time.
Sunrise was another unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Watching the first light break over the dunes, I had to keep pinching myself to believe I was actually here. It was a truly special moment to welcome the desert day.
Ouarzazate
Leaving the Sahara began with an exhilarating 4x4 drive and a visit to Madu’s sister property at the edge of the desert - a fantastic option for extending your stay with an extra night before the full desert experience, if time allows.
From there, we journeyed back through the Atlas Mountains to Ouarzazate, often called the "Hollywood of Morocco." This captivating city is steeped in film history, with iconic movies like Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy, and The Living Daylights filmed here.
Our stay at the charming Tin Joseph Riad was a perfect finale. The rooftop views, Berber music, and a final Moroccan feast provided the ideal way to reflect on an incredible adventure.
Why Morocco?
Every step of this journey was filled with awe and wonder, and the best part? YOU can experience it too! From wandering the vibrant souks of Marrakesh to stargazing in the magical Sahara or uncovering the cinematic charm of Ouarzazate, Morocco has something for everyone.
Let me handle the planning so you can simply enjoy the magic. Whether it’s crafting a personalised itinerary or taking care of every little detail, I’m here to make your Moroccan adventure as memorable as mine.