Welcome to OUT Adventures
Gay owned OUT Adventures and Intrepid Travel have partnered together to provide a comfortable travel environment for not only for gay and lesbian travellers,
but also their friends and family who want to experience the world at the grassroots level with like-minded people. Go on, Get OUT and experience the real world.
The colour and commotion of this enchanting land will dazzle travellers looking to experience a way of life suspended in time. Travel through the moody desert landscape past kasbahs and villages, picnic in tranquil mountain gorges or investigate the labyrinth of souqs in the cities and haggle with traders. Learn the secrets to the perfect couscous and discover the ruins of a city built by a mad sultan during the Golden Age. Stay in a hotel made of Saharan sand and find tranquillity in a traditional riad amid the frenzy of the medina. The sights, sounds and smells of the cities and the aromatic flavours of the cuisine will infuse your memories of Morocco for years to come.
Please note that the main tourist season in Morocco is March till November (spring, summer and autumn). Most travellers choose to visit at this time for the sun and the warmth. While winter is traditionally not the busy season, we don’t know why! With less tourists, picturesque snow-capped mountains and pleasant day time temperatures we think it is a great time to travel. But please note, that while freezing temperatures and snow may not be the first things to come to mind when you think of Africa, this is what we get in Morocco since it records the coldest temperatures on the continent of Africa.
Please read important notes about 'alterations to itineraries' and 'extreme temperatures'.
If you pack accordingly, don’t mind the potential inconveniences of mother nature, and like the idea of warming up over a cup of mint tea, then Winter is a great time to travel in Morocco. Just bring your thermals!
Style
Trip Map
Itinerary
Culture Shock Rating
Physical Rating
Gay Rating
Physical Preparation
Included Activities
Optional Activities
Spending Money
Tipping
Important Notes
Group Size
Accommodation
Dive into the real world, with a softer landing. Comfort class trips are all about variety: the places, the people, the activities. It's your style of travel if you want a few little extras, but don't want to compromise on a true grassroots travel experience. You're as likely to find yourself paddling a kayak as relaxing on a cruise along the Yangtze River!
Salaam Aleikum! Welcome to Morocco.
You can arrive at any time on Day 1 as there are no activities planned until the important welcome meeting at 6:00pm. If your flight arrives late we recommend that you consider booking a night's accommodation prior to the trip so you can ensure you are able to attend this meeting. A notice will be posted at reception telling you where this will take place.
We will also collect your insurance details (including 24 hour emergency contact number and policy number) and next of kin information so please ensure you have all details on hand to provide to your leader. Check-in time at our joining point hotel is after 12.00noon.
Early check-in is not guaranteed, however if you arrive early, luggage storage can be arranged, just speak to the hotel reception on arrival. Please note that luggage storage in our hotels is at your own risk and generally these areas are not locked or completely secure. Bring your own luggage lock. After the Group Meeting we can head out for our first taste of delicious Moroccan food.
Our journey begins in the bustling Port city of Casablanca. Modelled after Marseille in France, Casablanca has since become much busier than its parent and is now the undisputed economic capital of the country, with one of Africa's largest ports. The architectural style of the city is curious; famous for its Art Deco French colonial buildings and Mauresque governmental institutions, an old Medina and of course the phenomenal modern day masterpiece - Hassan II Mosque. We depart Casablanca on Day 2 so if you wanted to spend more time visiting the sights of Casablanca, we recommend you arrive a day or two early.
After breakfast we have a guided tour of the Hassan II mosque. Perched oceanside at Islam's western extremity, it was completed in 1993 after years of work by around 30,000 craftsmen. The mosque was the late King Hassan II's most ambitious project and was funded by public subscription - all $800 million of it! Only the mosques at Mecca and Medina are bigger, and its 200m-high minaret is the tallest in the world. In the afternoon, we head by train to Meknes (approx. 3.5 hours). Meknes was the capital of Morocco's last golden age under the Alaouites. The fearsome Sultan Moulay Ismail, a contemporary of Louis XIV, aimed to build his own version of Versailles here and with an unstoppable labour force of over 25,000 slaves, he constructed walls, gates and over 50 palaces. Severely damaged by an earthquake in 1755, relatively little of the compound remains intact today. There are however, enough surviving vestiges from Moulay Ismail's rule to keep you occupied in Meknes - from the imposing Bab Mansour, a beautiful city gate, to the Habs Qara, a huge underground dungeon in which the Sultan kept his prisoners. You can also pick up a souvenir or two from the small covered souqs in the city - prices in Meknes are among the most reasonable in Morocco.
Tonight we stay in a hotel in twin rooms with attached bathrooms. Rooms include TVs and air conditioning. Breakfast is included for OUT travellers.
On day 3 we travel to nearby Volubilis (approx. 1 hour) via picturesque rolling hills dotted with Olive groves. A local guide will take us on a walk back in time as we explore this ancient hilltop city, one of the Roman Empire's most remote bases, which remained affluent until the 8th century however the structures remained in tack until they were damaged by an earthquake in the 18th century after which much of the marble was taken for constructions in nearby Meknes.
Then we travel north to to the charming isolated town of Chefchaouen (approx. 4 hours). Set against a gorgeous wide valley and surrounded by the stunning Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen may take you by surprise. Its Medina has been lovingly cared for with striking blue and whitewashed houses, sloping red tiled roofs and superb artistic doorways protecting the secrets of its curious inhabitants. Much of Chefchaouen was recreated by Andalusian refugees escaping the Reconquistia and you could be forgiven for thinking you were somewhere in the hills of Spain when exploring its cobble stone streets. It is an evocative atmosphere and a wonderful place to reduce the pace and enjoy the romantic and somewhat bohemian ambience.
We will spend our nights in Chefchouen in a wonderfully restored Riad. A Riad is a traditional ancient nobleman's house unique to Morocco that has become very popular with travellers as an oasis of escape, charm and tranquillity form the hustle and bustle of the Medina. Our Riad is exquisitely designed and decorated in a wonderful setting with superb panoramic views of the village and valley below. We are sure you will find this to be one of the most friendly atmospheres and one of the most memorable stays you will enjoy on your journey.
Day 4 is a free day. You have the option to take a local bus (approx. 3 hours) to the coastal town of Tangier where you have time to make a short visit of the town and recently redeveloped promenade, and perhaps have a fresh fish dinner by the Port.
On the morning of day 5 we travel to Fes.
Fes is the most complete medieval city in the Arab world. The most ancient of Morocco's Imperial cities, it exists suspended in time. Tonight, we may head to the Palais Jamai for an evening drink. Watching the sun set over the huge Medina whilst a dozen prayer calls vie for attention is an experience you are likely to remember forever. We have the most amazing dinner tonight trying Moroccan specialties like Harira (chickpea soup) and chicken-stuffed Pastilla with Couscous. In the morning, we take a guided walk of Fes. Descending into the labyrinthine alleyways of the Medina is like taking a giant step back to the Middle Ages. Preserved by the French for its historical value, this preservation also led to the decline of the city's importance, as both government and financial centres were set up elsewhere in the country. With the Jewish population moving away in 1956, and too many rural poor moving in for it to handle, this ancient centre of learning is only a shell of what it used to be. Still, it remains a fascinating living museum where getting lost is half the fun! Occupants of the city are called 'Fassis', and they fancy themselves as the most sophisticated and intellectual of all Moroccans, having their own food staples and style of dress to prove it. In the afternoon you are free to explore Fes at your leisure. Why not round off the day in a hammam (local-style bath house) or soak up the incredible views with dinner looking over the Fes Medina.
For these two nights we stay in a gorgeous traditional riad overlooking the Fex Medina in twin rooms with attached bathrooms. Rooms include air conditioning. Breakfast is included for OUT travellers.
Day 7 sees us heading towards the Middle Atlas Mountains and the territory made famous by the French Foreign Legion. Our route takes us through cedar forests, home to the Barbary Apes, and into the valley between the Middle and High Atlas mountain ranges. We continue to Midelt (approx. 5 hours), which is overlooked by the Djebel Ayachi, a 3,700m peak. We visit the Kasbah Myriam, a carpet and embroidery workshop run by Franciscan nuns with the aim of providing sustainable employment and healthcare to local Berber women. The wares they produce are beautiful and of high quality, so it's the perfect place to buy a memorable souvenir. Here we can enjoy our first views of the mighty High Atlas Mountains from our hotel- on a clear day of course.
Tonight we stay in a large hotel in twin rooms with attached bathrooms. Rooms include air conditioning, and the hotel has a swimming pool. Breakfast is included for OUT travellers.
It's a stunning drive today (approx. 5 hours) towards the mighty Sahara Desert. We have many opportunities to stop and admire the panoramic views of the Kasbahs and palmeries (valleys lush with date palms, fields and orchards) en-route. We can pause in some of the frontier towns such as Erfoud and Rissani until we reach the end of the road and the small settlement of Merzouga.
Our visit is to the Erg Chebbi dunes, which are the most stunning in the country and an experience essential to complete any visit to Morocco. An Erg is a vast sea of shifting wind-swept sand that is formed into picturesque undulating crests and valleys, and the Erg Chebbi are one of the worlds classic landscapes of towering dunes, up to heights of over 150 meters. Located well off the end of the sealed road, and just 20 kilometres from the Algerian border this is wonderful frontier country. In the late afternoon, we board camels for a short ride off over the dunes in time to catch the sunset from this fairytale landscape before returning to our hotel, perched at the foot of the dunes!
Tonight we stay in a hotel made from the sands of the desert in twin rooms with attached bathrooms. Rooms include air conditioning, and the hotel has a swimming pool. Breakfast is included for OUT travellers.
For the early risers the morning of Day 9 begins with a sunrise over the majestic dunes, before breakfast and another classic drive with dramatic changes of landscape to the stunning Todra Gorge (approx. 4 hours) where we will have lunch.
Enroute we will stop Its in a small town called Tinejdad (approx. 2 hours from the desert) and visit an interesting museum called Museum El Khorbat, which has a great collection of rural and historical Berber artifacts, clothing, jewelry and tools. It is housed in three restored homes of a Ksar and provides a wealth of information about Berber living in the area.
Then we make the short drive to the equally spectacular Dades Gorge (approx. 2 hour). This valley is flanked on both sides by high limestone cliffs and bizarre rock formations with picturesque Kasbah's dotted along the course of the stunning valley of crops and palms.
There is an option to make this journey to Dades Gorge off the beaten track along one of Morocco's classic nomadic route of rough piste by 4WD. Your Group Leader can provide more details and arrange this easily a few days in advance of your arrival to Todra.
On arrival to our luxury hotel you might consider the spa and massage treatments on offer or a cocktail while relaxing in the terrace jacuzzi with sweeping views of the valley below.
On the morning of Day 11 we say goodbye to the Gorge region and make our way further south towards the Kasbah country of Ait Benhaddou (approx. 3 hours). This scenic drive offers a glimpse of times gone by via the ruins of ancient Kasbahs; once colonial military desert outposts, austere mountains, wide open spaces, valleys of palm trees and irrigated fields. En-route we can pause for lunch in Ouarzazate, the film capital of Morocco, where films such as 'Lawrence of Arabia' and 'The Sheltering Sky' and 'Black Hawk Down' have been filmed. Time permitting we can take a tour of the Atlas Movie Studios.
In Ouarzazate we can make a short visit to the Handicapped Project Horizon, which is an association committed to the rehabilitation of disabled people of the region. Amongst some of the amazing services they provide are: developing prosthetic limbs, custom made wheelchairs, providing physio and social therapy to sufferers of accidents and illness. There is also an Artisanal workshop training local people trades such as pottery, jewellery and metal making. This is a wonderful visit, and we are very happy to announce that Project Horizon is now a brand new member of the Intrepid Foundation which is supported by this trip, so we are looking forward to offering a long partnership of assistance and support.
After lunch we drive on (approx. 45 minutes) to our final destination, the grand Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou - one of the most beautiful in all of Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This fortified village is a fine example of clay architecture and is also famous for its role on the silver screen, featuring in numerous films such as: Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Jewel of the Nile (1985), Jesus of Nazareth (1977), The Last Temptation of Christ (1988), Kundun (1997), The Mummy (1999), Gladiator (2000), Alexander (2004). Centuries ago, Ait Benhaddou, on the Mellah River, was an important stop for the caravans passing through as they carried salt across the Sahara, returning with gold, ivory and slaves. Today, it is inhabited only by a handful of families and we can explore the maze of its streets at our leisure, or soak up the atmosphere poolside from our hotel terrace while watching the sun set over this magnificent site. This evening, we join in on a simple cooking demonstration of Moroccos most famous cuisine: Cous Cous and Tajine. The ladies of the kitchen will prepare some fabulous traditional meals and we will eat well tonight.
Tonight we stay in a large hotel in twin rooms with attached bathrooms. Rooms include TV's and air conditioning, and the hotel has a swimming pool. Breakfast is included for OUT travellers.
On the morning of day 12 we travel to the majestic city of Marrakech (approx. 3 hours) and Morocco's most alluring city. After settling in to our hotel we can join the thronging crowds and enjoy dinner at the ultimate el fresco experience of the infamous Djemaa el Fna. This is undoubtedly an unforgettable introduction to bustling Marrakech where we can wander around the singers, drummers, dancers, snake charmers, fortune tellers, tooth pullers, storytellers, jugglers and even old medicine men, altogether who make up what has been dubbed the greatest spectacle on earth.
On Day 13 we take a morning guided tour of the Medina and its mosaic of souq's, each devoted to a separate trade: pottery, woodwork, copper, leather, carpets and spices - a wander among them is a sensory delight. The afternoon is free to seek out some of the the numerous monuments of Marrakech, such as the well-known Koutoubia Mosque and its superb minaret - famous throughout the Islamic world and the 'sister' to the Giralda in far-away Seville, to the lesser-known tropical gardens of the French Painter Jacques Majorelle (now owned by Yves Saint Laurent). There is the Palais Bahia, a superb example of Muslim architecture, and the ruins of the Palais Badi, reputedly one of the most beautiful palaces in the world in its time. The Saadian tombs are a recently uncovered gem of the Medina. All of the above can be a challenge to locate, but that is all a part of the experience of exploring the phenomenal Medina's of Morocco! On the evening of Day 13, our final dinner and sadly our farewells await.
Day 14 is departure day and we say 'Ma'Salama Shukran Bizzaf' for memories that will last a lifetime. There are no activities planned for today and you are able to depart the hotel at any time. Check out time from the hotel is at 12 noon. If you are departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel.
The itinerary attached is correct at time of printing. Please note: occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travelers' comments and our own research. Our brochure is usually released in November each year. As such the information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you print and review a final copy of your Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. For the latest updated Trip Notes please visit our website: www.out-adventures.com
The trip includes a range of accommodation, such as basic hotels with western facilities or overnight trains. Days of being on the move are well interspersed, communication with the outside world is ever-present and a wide variety of food is commonly available.
You are required to carry your pack on and off trains and buses, up hotel steps, etc. Your itinerary may include easy paced walks or bike rides, but these are on mainly flat ground.
This trip travels to a very conservative area. We encourage you to experience the destination and culture will the following in mind:
Accommodation - We do not foresee any problems, however there may be occasions when a same sex couple may be asked to sleep in single beds rather than sharing a double. We appreciate your cooperation.
Public Display of affection - These are frowned upon in this region among all travellers, not just those on an OUT Adventure. This includes holding hands in public.
Gay Activities - This trip does not have any specific gay hosted events, meals or day tours due to the cultural sensitivity of this region. We will do our best to provide a safe, comfortable environment for you and your fellow travellers to experience this culture.
Please read the important notes & local dress section of the Trip Notes for more detailed information
Long and rough travel days:
There are some long travel days and some rough travelling in areas away from main tourist routes. High passes, windy roads and rough surfaces make for some challenging travel experiences. If you experience travel sickness we recommend you consider medication to help ease the discomfort.
Early mornings:
On some long travel days we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimise our time at our next destination.
Temperatures:
There will be a variety of temperatures ranging from extreme cold in the evenings and during the day in the winter months to oppressive heat in the summer, particularly during the day (winter in the Middle East is defined as November to March however extreme cold is common beyond these periods). Please be prepared for extreme temperatures and pack accordingly. If you commonly feel discomfort or suffer health issues when experiencing either freezing or extremely hot temperatures, consider if this trip is right for you.
Physical fitness levels:
A good level of fitness is recommended and will certainly help increase the enjoyment of the trip.
This is a list of included activities on this trip. All other activities are optional and at your own expense.
For a list of optional activities and sightseeing available on this trip, see the optional activities section below.
If you choose not to participate in the included activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.
Private arrival transfer from the airport to hotel
Entrance and guided tour of Hassan II Mosque
Entrance and guided tour of Volubilis
Guided walking tour of Fes
Camel safari in the Erg Chebbi dunes of the Sahara
Cooking demonstration and home dinner in Ait Benhaddou
Picnic in Dades Gorge
Guided walking tour of Marrakech
All optional activities are entirely your choice and are not included in price of this trip. The following is not an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only.
Guided trek in Todra Gorge - MAD250 (for group)
Rock climbing in Todra Gorge - MAD200
Mountain biking in Todra Gorge - MAD200
4WD piste journey from Todra to Dades - MAD1500 (per 4WD. Seats 5)
Atlas Movie Studio visit in Ouarzazate - MAD50
Museums, medersas and monuments in Marrakech - MAD10-30
Jardin Marjorelle in Marrakech - MAD30
Cascades d'Ouzoud day trip ex. Marrakech MAD250
Hamam (public baths) - MAD50-200
If you are happy with the services provided by your local guides and drivers a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid destinations. Please consider this when budgeting for your extra expenses on this trip.
Many travellers when coming to Morocco are interested in purchasing a carpet- they are colourful, good quality and inexpensive when compared to home. However, be aware that Moroccan carpet salesmen are experts in their field and unwary shoppers can end up paying more than they bargained for. If you are interested in purchasing carpets talk with you group leader about bargaining tactics.
Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travelers may drink more than others while other travelers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, participating in optional activities and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
If you are happy with the services provided a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many OUT Adventures destinations. Please note we recommend that any tips are given directly to the intended recipient by a member of your group as our group leaders are prohibited from collecting cash for tips.
The following amounts are based on local considerations and feedback from our past travellers:
Restaurants: Local markets and basic restaurants - leave the loose change. More up-market restaurants we suggest 5% to 10% of your bill.
Local guides: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your leader. We suggest 10-20MAD per person per day for local guides.
Drivers: You may have a range of private drivers on your trip. Some may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days. We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group however 10MAD per person per day is generally appropriate.
Your Group Leader: You may also consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline 20MAD per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Travelling in Morocco:
Morocco is a country which may be very different to anything you have experienced before. Heat, pollution, poverty and the crowds can result in initial culture shock but should be seen as an exciting new challenge. During our time here we have come to love this wonderfully different country but we know that we should always expect to encounter some difficulties along the way. In Morocco there are very different attitudes to time keeping, public cleanliness, privacy and service. If you are able to travel with a lot of patience and a sense of humour, then we know that you - like all of us - will be captivated by Morocco.
Gay rights in Morocco:
Although Morocco is a very popular destination for LGBT folk, the country remains a culturally conservative nation. There are no anti-discrimination laws in favour of gays and lesbians in Morocco. Although many of the citizens of Morocco may be liberal-leaning, the government is still reluctant towards the issue and there is no legal recognition of same-sex couples. OUT Adventures passengers should research travel advisories and restrictions for all countries they visit and also refer to the OUT Adventures Gay Rating system for recommended attire and behavior suggestions. For more information, visit www.out-adventures.com/gayratingsystem. Another useful resource is www.wikipedia.org where you can simply search for LGBT rights in the country of your choice.
Alterations to the itinerary:
While we operate successful trips in Morocco throughout the year, some changes may occur in our itineraries due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route while you are travelling particularly in the winter months (although not limited to winter, which is defined as November to March). Travel time may be significantly delayed, roads can be closed due to avalanches, heavy snow, ice cover or dense fog or we simply choose an alternative (and longer) route due to safety concerns. Please be prepared for these possible itinerary alterations.
Extreme temperatures in Morocco
Please note that as a desert country, Morocco can have extreme weather! Summer (approximately April to September) can be very hot everywhere we travel. Winter (approximately November to March) can be freezing. It is recommended to bring a good sleeping bag, thermals, scarf, gloves and a warm jacket for travel in this period.
Some of our guesthouses/hotels do not supply heating. This would be a major financial and environmental strain on our hotels and the local towns. It is also a case of energy supply and timing provisions, which is limited in some places. Please be prepared for cold showers - which for most times of the year, are a pleasure.
Breakfasts included:
There are some simple breakfasts included on this trip which comprises simply of bread, butter, jam, coffee/tea and juice (or similar). This is typical of breakfasts in hotels in Morocco and large American/English style breakfasts are not included or available at our hotels.
Communication:
Please be aware that telephone calls made from hotel rooms are extremely expensive. We advise you do not rely on hotel telephones to communicate while travelling. Use local phones or call shops, or rely on the internet.
Departure from Casablanca:
For those of you that are flying out of Casablanca: Trains from Marrakech to Casablanca, depart on the hour every 2 hours between 5:00am and 9:00pm and cost EUR8 for 2nd class and EUR12 for 1st class. The trip is scheduled to take 3 hours & 10 minutes and is subject to frequent delays.
From Casablanca Voyageurs Station, trains run to the Casablanca airport every hour at 5 mins past the hour. First departure is at 5:00am and the last departure at 10:00pm. The trip takes 35 minutes.
Check the useful website (in French) for more information - www.oncf.ma
Alternatively, from Casablanca city the 25km taxi ride to the Casablanca airport costs MAD250 (EUR25)
Accommodation:
The style of accommodation described in the day to day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions alternative arrangements may need to be arranged due to availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
Ramadan:
The important month long Ramadan festival will be in progress 21 August to 20 September 2009. This is a festival of sacrifice where the devout refrain from eating or drinking during daylight hours. During Ramadan business hours are shortened, including opening hours at all popular tourist attractions. Alcohol is not permitted during daylight hours and many restaurants will be closed. While you definitely need to expect some delays and inconveniences during this period, the month of Ramadan is a fantastic month to travel in Muslim countries as it offers a chance to witness the nightly celebrations when the sun sets and the fast is broken.
Early check-in throughout the trip:
Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, however this is not always possible which means we will not be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
Additional accommodation:
If you have purchased pre- or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
Expense in Morocco:
Morocco is often misjudged as being an inexpensive destination. With tourism booming, the influx of cheap flights from Europe, prices for some items are becoming more equivalent to prices you would be used to at home. Eating in local restaurants, road side stalls and from markets can be inexpensive, but for nights out at tourist friendly restaurants you can expect to pay much more. With drinks, tipping and of course - shopping, it can all add up. Budgets are a personal choice but please bare in mind that you should not expect Morocco to be a budget destination.
Bargaining in Morocco:
In Morocco some services and products are not a fixed price which means that your bartering skills will be tested from hiring taxis to buying a souvenir in the Medina. This can be challenging for travellers who have not experienced this before. Ask your leaders for advice when you arrive however the best approach is to smile and have fun as this is an entrenched part of Moroccan culture.
Driving times:
Please note all driving times listed in the itinerary are approximate and are based on traffic conditions, weather, drivers safety considerations and many other factors.
Maximum of 12 travellers per group
Hotels (11 nts), riad (2 nts)
While travelling with us you will experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On our camping trips we often cook the region's specialties so you don't miss out. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Please check the 'meal inclusions' section of these notes for details of meals included.
Allow EUR €665 for meals not included.
13 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners
Train, minibus, local taxi, camel, walking
All OUT group trips are accompanied by one of our gay or gay friendly group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. We endeavor to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders.
Your leader will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. OUT leaders aim to support local guides who have specialized knowledge of the regions we visit - and who better to hear it from than the locals themselves? If you were interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
If you are happy with the level of service provided by your group leader, we recommend that you reward them with a $2 to $4 USD tip per day.
2010 Joining Point Hotel for this trip. To be advised
Arrival airport-hotel transfers are included in the price of this trip. Complimentary transfers are only applicable if on day 1 of your OUT Adventures trip or if going to pre tour accommodation booked through Intrepid. Please advise flight arrival details including flight number, arrival time and departure point, at least 14 days prior to departure if you wish to have this transfer provided.
We are currently contracting our joining point hotel for this trip. Please ensure you download the most recent trip notes before your departure so you have the correct joining point details.
We don't expect any problems (and nor should you!) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your group trip as scheduled, please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer (where available) and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions in the Trip Notes. Should this occur, please apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost on your return.
No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to a different flight arrival or delayed flight arrival. Any additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.
Hotel Meryem
154 Med El Beqal Street
Marrakech
Morocco
Phone: +212 52443 7062
Located in the City Centre near the Royal Theatre and the train station. There is a wide choice of restaurants, shops, bars and cafes in the area. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, A/C, satellite TV, minibar, telephone. The hotel has a swimming pool, 3 restaurants, cafe/tea room, fitness area, hammam, sauna and massage area. Breakfast is Included. Please note that in respect of local customs the hotel enforces a no alcohol policy in all public areas.
Marrakech Menara Airport is approx. 5km from the city centre. Petite taxis (small cars which are light brown in colour) can easily be hailed from the street, or ask the hotel to assist. Negotiate the fare before getting in and aim to pay no more than 100MAD (150MAD at night).
In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency, Intrepid's Melbourne Office can be reached on Tel: +61 3 9473 2650. For further contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/.
Please also make sure you have access to an additional USD$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.
Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change.
It is important that you check for yourself.
Most western visitors do not require visas to visit Morocco as a tourist, and are stamped in on arrival for 3 months. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
Some hotels offer a laundry service which by western standards is generally inexpensive. Self-service laundries are scarce, but laundromats are not uncommon in the main towns. If using a hotel or laundromat service note that damage to clothing is occasionally encountered. Leave your delicate evening wear at home. Consider bringing some bio-degradable laundry soap and hand wash so that you can wash any precious items yourself.
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you will not be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes) we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg/22lb.
Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for daytrips.
It is important that your bags can be locked, as on the trains and boats it may be necessary to store your luggage separately (an unattended) from the group. The smaller your bag is the better for you and other passengers on local transport, for when it comes to traveling on local buses and trains its usually only the smaller bags that will fit into the storage areas. If your bag does not fit in these areas then often the only place to put it is on your seat. So to get maximum comfort, pack small and light.
Temperatures in Morocco are generally hot and with little rain. This can become extreme towards and during the summer months of May to August. A hat is essential. In the months from November to March it can be very cool at night particularly in the mountains or near the desert where night temperatures can drop to five degrees Celsius or less. Even in the hot months out in the desert it can get cold at night.
Morocco can be considered a liberal Muslim country as many Moroccan women do not wear headscarves, comparatively however, Morocco is very conservative by standards you may be accustomed to at home and you should dress accordingly. As a general guideline, shoulders, cleavage and knees should be covered at all times. Wearing shorts (men and women), low-cut tops, and showing midriff is not recommended as it will restrict your entry into buildings of a religious nature and family homes and is considered disrespectful to the local culture. Long, light-couloured, lightweight sleeved shirts, trousers and skirts are respectful, cover your body, keep you cool in the heat and protect you from the harsh sun.
The following checklist is to be used as a guide only and is not intended to be a complete packing list. Any other items that you wish to pack are at your own discretion however you should attempt to comply with the suggested luggage weight limit.
The following checklist is to be used as a guide only and is not intended to be a complete packing list. Any other items that you wish to pack are at your own discretion however you should attempt to comply with the suggested luggage weight limit.
Travel documents: passport, visa, travel insurance, air tickets, voucher
Health requirements/medication
Money: cash/credit card/ travellers cheques, money pouch
First aid kit
Sunscreen (with high sun protection factor and lip balm
Sunglasses
Wide brim hat or umbrella
Antibacterial hand gel
Day pack to carry your personal needs during the day
A lock for your pack
Comfortable shoes with good grip and ankle support
Trekking pants (the type with zip off legs are ideal)
Alarm clock and torch/flashlight
Lightweight travel towel
Ear plugs can be useful if you are a light sleeper
A scarf or face mask for dust
Local language phrase book
IN SUMMER: May to October
Light fleece
Sleep sheet
Trekking sandals
Swimmers/bathing suit
IN WINTER: November to March/April
A heavy fleece/polar fleece
Warm clothes, scarf, thermals, gloves, hat, jacket
Please check recent temperatures before your trip departs: http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/5day.shtml?world=0077
Group leaders collect clothing for poorer village communities. If you have room in your luggage, warm children's clothes and shoes are particularly appreciated.
Currency exchange rates often fluctuate. For the most up to date rates please refer to the following website: www.oanda.com.
The most convenient and cheapest way to acquire money is via an Automated Teller Machine (ATM). This allows you to draw funds from your personal account at a superior exchange rate. Most ATM's will also give you a cash advance on your credit card but be wary of high fees imposed by banks for this service. Bank fees for these withdrawals can be either a flat rate or a percentage of the amount withdrawn. Check with your bank for information in their international fees. There are now ATMs (which accept both Visa and MasterCard) throughout the main Moroccan cities and these are also accepted in some of the larger shops and restaurants.
When leaving home don't forget your PIN and make sure you know the telephone number for cancelling your card if it is stolen. Keep this in a safe place.
There are few problems changing money, there are many banks, all operating with equal exchange rates, and without commission. Exchange rates are set around midday on Fridays, which has lead to a practice of not serving customers during the hours until reports of the new rates have been received. The easiest and safest way to access money is a credit card. Some banks will also allow cash advances on your card. We do recommend that you carry some money as cash/travellers' cheques for when these ATMs can not be accessed or have broken down or run out of cash.
While some banks and 5 star hotels will change travellers' cheques the process is very time consuming and commissions can be high (up to 10%) and it is difficult to change Travellers' cheques on weekends and public holidays. The easiest cheques to change are Thomas Cook or American Express in USD.
Cash in EUR, GBP and USD dollars are favoured for exchange. Australian Dollars (AUD) are not accepted in cash or travellers' cheques. Morocco has no black market.
When using your credit card, check your receipts and keep them to compare against your statement when you get home.
The currency of Morocco is dirham (MAD), divided into 100 centimes. Notes are in the following denominations: 20, 50, 100 and 200. Coins are in 10, 5, 2 and 1 dirham and 50, 20 centimes. With few exceptions, foreign notes can never be used instead of dirhams.
Please don't be alarmed that you can not purchase dirhams outside of Morocco. It is easy to get money when you arrive at the airport by cash/cheque exchange or from the ATM.
We recommend you carry some cash to pay for restaurant bills and other services and tips. Change can be difficult to obtain so throughout the day, try to gain as many small denominations as you can to make group meals easier to pay for. Coins will also prove very convenient in this tipping culture.
For more information on exchange rates refer to www.oanda.com prior to travel.
For money safety we recommend that you carry your cash and credit cards in a secure money belt or pouch concealed under your clothing.
Expense in Morocco:
Morocco is often misjudged as being an inexpensive destination. With tourism booming, the influx of cheap flights from Europe, prices for some items are becoming more equivalent to prices you would be used to at home. Eating in local restaurants, road side stalls and from markets can be inexpensive, but for nights out at tourist friendly restaurants you can expect to pay much more. With drinks, tipping and of course - shopping, it can all add up. Budgets are a personal choice but please bare in mind that you should not expect Morocco to be a budget destination.
All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend email. Email cafes are generally available throughout the regions we visit, although it is possible you may be without email contact for several days on some itineraries. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our emergency contact details. We don't recommend that family and friends try to contact you through hotels, as they are subject to change and the reception staff may not speak English.
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local partner straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case please ask the leader if you may speak to their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip but we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.
All OUT Adventures travelers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully in the group travel experience.
If, in the opinion of our group leader, any traveler is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or
the rest of the group, OUT Adventures reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. We therefore
ask that you read the itinerary in these Trip Notes thoroughly and then realistically self-assess your physical ability to complete
the trip as described. Please consult with your doctor if you have any doubts.
There are no specific health requirements for this trip. However, you should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses) as they may not easily be obtained while on tour.
Intrepid is very aware of the issues raised by H1N1 (swine) flu and these have been taken into consideration for all aspects of the trip you are about to take. In reviewing this itinerary we have followed the guidelines set out by The World Health Organisation (WHO) http://www.who.int/en/
Intrepid reserve the right to make last minute changes to any itinerary in the very unlikely occurrence that an area should suddenly be deemed to be unsafe because of an outbreak of H1N1 flu.
Drinking water:
As a rule we recommend you do not drink tap water, even in hotels, as it contains much higher levels of different minerals than the water you may have at home. For local people this is not a problem as their bodies are used to this and can cope, but for travellers from places other continents drinking the tap water can result in illness. Generally this is not serious, an upset stomach being the only symptom, but it is enough to spoil a day or two of your holiday. Bottled water is widely available. Water consumption should be about 3 litres a day (this should be easy for most!) Rehydration salts, motion sickness tablets, and diarrhoea blockers are available from many pharmacies.
Asthma:
For some travelers The Sahara sands can bring on bouts of asthma. If you suffer from asthma even occasionally, we recommend you bring your medication as it can not be administered by your group leader and may not be readily available while you are travelling.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel.
We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure.
Please refer to our website's Safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues
affecting our trips: www.out-adventures.com/safety.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport,
air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home - you won't need it while travelling.
Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables.
A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities however
during your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure.
While your group leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional
activities you undertake are not part of your OUT Adventures itinerary, and OUT Adventures makes no representations
about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when
selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel
any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. For more details on the type of conditions
and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to OUT Adventures' operational safety policy at
www.out-adventures.com/safety.
We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any
feedback on how well it is being implemented in the field.
Moroccan tagines:
Moroccan ceramic tagines bought in the souks or other shops in Morocco may contain high levels of lead. We strongly recommend you have any tagine you buy in Morocco tested before cooking with it or buy for decorative purposes only.
Fire exits:
Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in the Middle East differ from those in the western world or from your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.
Petty theft and personal safety:
Please be aware that while travelling in the region of North Africa and the Middle East there is the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
Camels and donkeys and bicycles:
Professional riding equipment and helmets will not be provided when riding any camels or donkeys. Bicycle helmets (when provided) may not be the same standard that you are used to at home. If you are particularly concerned for your safety while riding a bicycle or an animal, then we recommend you bring your own helmet.
On an OUT trip you will be travelling with other gay or gay-friendly passengers. We encourage open minded friends and family to join our trips. As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travelers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travelers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.
Please note that due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travelers booked on your trip prior to departure.
With the exception of our Comfort and In Style trips, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same sex for the duration of the trip, in accommodation ranging from twin to multi-share. Please note some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis - where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On our Comfort & In Style trips you have the choice of sharing or paying a single supplement. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre- and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.
We believe strongly in low impact, or rather, positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimize the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please refer to our website at www.out-adventures.com/responsibletravel for further details and suggestions on how you can be a responsible traveler.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for OUT Adventures travelers. OUT Adventures' philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
After your travels, we want to hear from you! This is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 4 weeks of finishing your trip. Go to: www.out-adventures.com/feedback
Thanks
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