Tangier & the Rif Mountains to Marrakech

Unlock a diverse land of medinas and mountains, riads and ruins, blue towns and buzzy souks

Journey deep into northern Morocco to visit unique towns and cities, each thick in a one-off blend of history and intrigue. Taking two time-saving train rides, we visit dramatically diverse destinations; there’s the bright-blue town of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains, the remarkable Roman ruins at Volubilis, the intellectual and religious hub of Fez and the surprisingly calm capital – Rabat. We end in vibrant Marrakech, touring mazey souks and standing in Djemaa el Fna square, a pulsating mix of snake charmers, juice vendors and trinket sellers.

Sustainability and Impact

At Exodus, we thrive on travel, and we firmly believe our adventures should help destinations thrive too.

As a certified B Corp, we aim to take a ‘nature positive’ approach across our adventures, including carbon and waste reduction, animal welfare and support for rewilding and conservation. We also seek to contribute to local communities, providing economic opportunity and empowerment.

• Learn more about our Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan, including our commitment to rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller

• Read about the work of the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation.

• Find out how you can travel more sustainably here.

Is this trip for you?

This trip is graded Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.

It provides an excellent introduction to northern Morocco with a relatively busy itinerary. We travel by train and private minibus.  Morocco is stunning but large and the cities and country areas are spread out. This means there are sometimes long journeys, but this is the only way to see all the country offers. We are not confined to our vehicle though, as there are plenty of photo stops and opportunities to stretch your legs. The approximate drive times are noted on the daily itinerary. Although there is an organised itinerary every day, the walks are optional.

The temperatures in Morocco are hot in the summer months but we try to make the most of the coolest parts of the day for our sightseeing so you can expect some early starts.  Expect it to be hot to very hot in the desert from May through to September.

Morocco can get cold in the winter months though usually daytime temperatures are mild. It is advisable to pack winter clothes for November through to March when nighttime temperatures especially in the desert and the mountains can drop considerably. During these months there can also be rain throughout the country and snow in the mountains. As Morocco is generally mild to hot it is not set up for colder temperatures and so there may not be heaters available. Please pack winter clothes and nightwear to ensure you are comfortable. Of course you can also ask for more blankets from the hotels. Please be prepared for the colder months.

Ramadan is expected to run from approximately 10 March-10 April 2024 and 28 February-29 March 2025. One of the most important periods in the Islamic calendar, it is a special time to visit a Muslim country. Each evening, the streets empty as people head home to break the fast, followed by an air of festivity upon their return. Our leaders and drivers choose to work at this time so we continue to run trips; however, their energy levels may be slightly lower than normal. Many tourist sites, restaurants and shops will have an amended schedule, but your tour leader will know how to adapt the itinerary to still experience all the inclusions on this trip and maximise your experience during this special time.

Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.

Vaccinations and Health

Morocco

There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, tuberculosis and typhoid. A polio vaccination certificate may be required for some travellers. Please confirm your needs and requirements with your doctor or travel clinic.

Visa

Morocco

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Morocco. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/morocco
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/morocco
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/morocco/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Morocco.html

Food & Drink

Moroccan food is, generally speaking, excellent, though not particularly varied. Breakfasts usually consist of bread and jam with coffee or tea. Where meals are not included, budget for the following approximate prices:

• Lunches: 60-100 dirhams (US$6-US$10)
• Dinners:
  • In cities: 80-200 dirhams (US$8-US$19)
  • Small towns and villages: 60-100 dirhams (US$6-US$10)
• Soft drinks in restaurants: 10-20 dirhams (US$1-US$1.90)
• Alcohol:
  • Beer: 30-50 dirhams (US$2.85-US$5)
  • Wine: 150 dirhams (US$14) and more

Vegetarians can be catered for but there is a fairly limited choice of vegetarian couscous, tajine or omelettes. This is particularly the case during the more rural sections of the trip.

Please note, if you have any special dietary requirements, you should inform us prior to the trip. If you have a specific medical/dietary need (eg coeliac or vegan) you may find it helpful to bring some food with you from home.

Weather

From April to June and in September, Marrakech and the north are pleasantly hot with temperatures averaging 26C (79F) in the day and 16C (61F) at night. It is unusual for there to be much humidity so it is quite pleasant except at midday when the sun is very strong. Desert temperatures are similar to those in Marrakech with the nights usually a little cooler and the days a little hotter. Mountain temperatures are cooler than in Marrakech.