Marrakesh, Essaouira, Mirleft, Tafraoute, Taroudante

Day 1- Marrakech - Essaouira ​ Meet at the airport for a transfer to Essaouira on the Atlantic Coast. The journey takes approximately three hours and winds through bustling market towns and the beginning of Morocco's distinctive argan forest. The argan tree is indigenous to this area of Morocco and is not found anywhere else in the world. The oil extracted from its nuts is celebrated for its cosmetic and culinary benefits. Departures in the morning reach Essaouira in time to enjoy a fresh fish lunch by the quayside, while later departures coincide with the stunning sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. ​ Day 2- Essaouira ​ The day is at your disposal to enjoy as you please. You might consider an optional half-day guided tour of Essaouira, where you'll explore the port, medina, skala (the fortified battlements), and the mellah (Jewish quarter), delving into Essaouira's history as Morocco's primary port, managed by the Sultan’s Jewish merchants. A fish lunch by the port could be a delightful option. For the afternoon, we're ready to organize various activities and excursions. Whether you prefer to unwind on the beach or peruse the medina's shops is up to you. For those seeking adventure, options like quad biking, camel or horseback riding, or water sports lessons are available. Don't miss out on a sunset ride—be it camel, horse, or quad bike—around the Cap Sim headland and the historic Sultan’s Palace ruins. ​ Day 3- Essaouira - Agadir - Mirleft ​ Departing from Essaouira, we embark on a four-hour drive southward, hugging the rugged coastline of the Moroccan Atlantic to reach AGADIR. En route, we encounter the towns of Tamri and Aourir, celebrated for their expansive banana plantations, the guiding light of Cap Rhir lighthouse, and the surfer's paradise, Taghazout. A lunch stop (cost not included) awaits us on the seafront of AGADIR, Morocco's top beach resort. Here, one can indulge in the freshest seafood and fish, savor traditional tajines, or explore a variety of international dishes. Post-lunch, our voyage takes us further south, skirting the Souss Massa National Park, a sanctuary for rare gazelles and a haven for migratory birds. Our day concludes with our arrival at MIRLEFT, just in time for dinner. Mirleft, a serene coastal town, presents breathtaking local beaches and imparts a profound sense of seclusion and tranquility. ​ Day 4- Mirleft ​ We will organize a day trip along Morocco's pristine Southern Atlantic coast. By car, we can take a morning excursion south to Sidi Ifni to explore the town and its unique architecture, a remnant of its past as a Spanish enclave. Afterwards, we'll return to Mirleft, stopping for lunch on Legzira beach, known for its iconic arched rock formations. The afternoon can be spent unwinding on this beach or exploring other stunning beaches nearby. Additionally, with 48 hours' notice, we can arrange activities such as quad biking, horseback riding, and fishing. ​ Day 5- Mirleft - Tiznit - Tafraoute ​ Following a relaxed morning, we depart around noon, traversing the Souss Valley towards the Anti Atlas Mountains. Tiznit, a fortified market town about an hour away, serves as the hub of Morocco's silversmithing trade. Although witnessing the creation of handcrafted items is rare, as they are typically made in artisans' homes, Tiznit offers an excellent opportunity to acquire local Berber and Tuareg designs. We pause for lunch at Restaurant Le Lieu and explore the silver souk before proceeding to Tafraoute, which is another two to three hours' drive. The route takes us through the bountiful Souss Plains, past almond and olive orchards, and alongside terraced hills where families have farmed for generations. We cross the breathtaking Col du Kerdous, perfect for a photo opportunity. Timed right, the call to prayer from multiple mosques creates a unique acoustic experience, echoing through the valley. We reach our hotel in time for dinner. ​ Day 6- Tafraoute ​ Today, we set out by car to discover the scenic Tafraoute region and the Ameln Valley. Our first stop is the hillside village of Oumesnate, perched above the valley, where we explore the 'Maison Traditionnelle,' a museum that celebrates the heritage of Anti-Atlas village life. Next, we journey to Agard Oudad village, taking in the sight of Napoleon's Hat rock formation as we exit the town. As we leave Tafraoute behind, we ascend through the mountains, observing goat and sheep herders and quaint Berber villages nestled on arid slopes. Our descent takes us into the lush, refreshing canyons of Ait Mansour. Here, we'll embark on a hike through the canyons, enjoying a picnic lunch along the way, before circling back to Tafraoute for another overnight stay. ​ Day 7- Tafraouate - Taroudant ​ ​ ​Departing from Tafraoute after breakfast, we embark on our journey to Taroudant, traversing the road through Ait Baha. The drive offers a breathtaking panorama of deserted villages and towering kasbahs amidst a stark, arid landscape. Along the way, the distinctive flora of prickly pear cacti and argan trees punctuate the hills and valleys. The trip is expected to last approximately 3 to 4 hours, with a planned lunch stop en route. Taroudant, once an imperial stronghold, is affectionately dubbed the 'grandmother of Marrakech'. Upon arrival, the remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. For a memorable experience, consider a calèche ride to admire the city's formidable walls as dusk approaches. This evening, a delightful dinner awaits you at your boutique guesthouse. ​ Day 8- Taroudante - Marrakesh ​ After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of the city, where you will delve into the history of Taroudant and visit the two main souks—the 'Arab souk' and the 'Berber souk'—notable for serving both the Arab and Berber communities within the city. You'll also have the chance to see the tanneries. Taroudant, with its charming walled enclosure, offers a glimpse into the bustling local life and a chance to wander through the vibrant souks. Following this, depart for Marrakech, a journey of approximately four hours. En route, ascend the Tizi n'Test pass, standing 2,101 meters above sea level, where you can enjoy the stunning panoramic views. Upon arrival in Marrakech, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon discovering the many wonders of Marrakesh. Day 9- Marrakesh - Airport ​ The journey has come to an end with the High Atlas tour. Transfer to the airport is arranged.