Morocco Guided Tour from the UK
Your Guided Morocco Tour
Morocco presents an opportunity for UK travellers to engage with a world that both contrasts with and complements their own. It’s a land where history is palpable, artistry flourishes, and the natural world displays a dramatic beauty. To merely observe Morocco is to miss its essence. It’s a country that invites immersion.
Consider these possibilities:
- Wandering through the intricate labyrinth of an ancient medina, where the scent of spices and the calls of artisans create a captivating sensory experience.
- Trading the rolling British countryside for the majestic peaks of the High Atlas Mountains, where trekking trails offer panoramic vistas and encounters with Berber culture.
- Experiencing the profound tranquillity of the Sahara Desert, where camel treks under a starlit sky provide a unique perspective on the desert’s timeless beauty.
Omar Adventures, founded and guided by the Berber native Omar Imerhan, offers UK travellers a curated pathway to these authentic Moroccan encounters. Omar is a cultural interpreter, a knowledgeable companion, and a passionate advocate for sharing the depth and richness of his homeland. With his expertise and personal connection to Morocco, Omar and his team provide carefully crafted itineraries that resonate with discerning travellers seeking a transformative travel experience.
Optimal Timing
for UK Explorers
For UK travellers accustomed to the variable climate of the British Isles, Morocco offers a distinct seasonal experience, necessitating some planning to maximise comfort and enjoyment.
Spring (April - May)
Mild temperatures and blooming flora create ideal conditions for exploring cities and engaging in outdoor activities, including trekking in the Atlas Mountains. This season provides a welcome respite from the lingering chill of the UK’s spring.
Autumn (September - October)
Similar to spring, autumn offers pleasant temperatures and clear skies, perfect for sightseeing and desert excursions. Mount Toubkal trek tours are particularly appealing during this time, as the weather is conducive to high-altitude trekking.
Summer (June - August)
Temperatures can be high, especially in inland and desert areas, requiring careful planning and hydration. Coastal regions offer a cooler alternative, with opportunities for beach relaxation.
Winter (November - March)
Temperatures are cooler, making city exploration more comfortable. The Sahara Desert possesses a unique tranquillity during the winter months, with clear skies ideal for stargazing.
Which Adventures Will I Get to Enjoy?
Omar Adventures, under the guidance of the Berber native Omar Imerhan, offers a selection of meticulously curated tours designed to showcase Morocco’s most compelling facets and provide authentically enriching experiences.
Atlas Mountain Treks with Omar:
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the High Atlas Mountains with Omar, whose profound connection to this region stems from his Berber heritage and extensive experience as a certified mountain guide. Choose from itineraries tailored to diverse fitness levels and interests. From gentle day hikes that explore verdant valleys and cascading waterfalls to challenging multi-day expeditions culminating in the ascent of Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, there’s a trek to suit every adventurer.
Desert Escapes with Omar
Embark on a camel trek through the Sahara Desert, a transformative experience that allows for a unique connection with the tranquillity, stark beauty, and timeless rhythms of this extraordinary environment. Sleep under a canopy of stars in a traditional desert camp. Learn about the age-old customs, captivating legends, and remarkable survival strategies of the desert from Omar, whose storytelling brings the Sahara to life with vivid detail and personal anecdotes.
Imperial City Itineraries with Omar
Explore Morocco’s four imperial cities: Marrakech, Fes, Meknes, and Rabat. Wander through bustling souks (markets) filled with aromatic spices, vibrant textiles, and handcrafted goods, and witness the artistry of Moroccan artisans practicing age-old crafts, a spectacle that echoes the UK’s own appreciation for craftsmanship.
Coastal Getaways with Omar
Explore Essaouira, a coastal town celebrated for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and opportunities for windsurfing and kitesurfing, all while benefiting from Omar’s local knowledge and recommendations for the best seafood restaurants and hidden gems. Enjoy the refreshing Atlantic breeze, explore the town’s historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and experience a different facet of Moroccan life, a welcome change from the UK’s often cooler climate.
Custom Tours with Omar:
Omar Adventures specialises in creating personalised itineraries tailored to individual interests, preferences, and travel styles, ensuring a unique and memorable Moroccan adventure that caters to your specific desires. Whether travelling solo, as a couple, or in a group, Omar can design a trip that perfectly accommodates your needs, incorporating specific activities, destinations, and accommodation choices to create a truly bespoke experience.
Travel Smart
To ensure a smooth, safe, and culturally enriching trip to Morocco, consider these practical travel tips:
Currency
The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). It’s advisable to exchange some currency upon arrival at the airport or at a reputable bank. While cards are accepted in larger establishments, it’s wise to carry a mix of cash and cards, especially when exploring smaller towns or haggling in the souks. Think of it like having a bit of “ready money” on hand, just like you would at a car boot sale.
Language
Arabic and Berber are the official languages, but French is also widely spoken, a legacy of Morocco’s colonial past. While many Moroccans, particularly in tourist areas, will have some English, learning a few basic Arabic phrases can significantly enhance your interactions with locals. A simple “Salam Alaikum” (peace be upon you) as a greeting, “Shukran” (thank you), and “Bslama” (goodbye) can go a long way in showing respect and earning a warm response.
Dress
Modesty is key, especially when visiting religious sites such as mosques or shrines. Think of it like going to a proper church service back home; you wouldn’t wear your beachwear. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the warmer weather, but be sure to bring layers for cooler evenings, particularly in the mountains or desert, where temperatures can drop quite dramatically after sunset. A light jacket or fleece will be your friend.
Respect
Exercise respect for local customs and traditions, just as you would when visiting any foreign country. Always seek permission before taking photographs of individuals, and be prepared to engage in polite bargaining when shopping in the souks (markets); it’s part of the experience, but keep it friendly and good-natured. Think of it as a bit of banter, not a battle of wills
Health
It’s always best to be prepared. Consult your GP or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss recommended vaccinations and health precautions. While Morocco doesn’t usually require any specific jabs for UK travellers, it’s worth checking for any updates and ensuring your tetanus is up-to-date. And remember the golden rule: drink bottled water!
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a recommended precaution for any overseas trip, and Morocco is no exception. It offers financial protection and assistance in the event of unexpected circumstances.
- Medical emergencies abroad can incur significant costs; therefore, comprehensive medical coverage is essential.
- Trip cancellation or interruption coverage protects prepaid expenses in the event of unforeseen disruptions to your travel plans.
- Coverage for loss or theft of personal belongings is advisable.
- Travel delay or cancellation coverage can provide compensation for expenses incurred due to travel disruptions.
It is important to review the terms and conditions of any insurance policy to ensure it meets your specific requirements.
Accommodation
Where you hang your hat at the end of the day is a big part of the experience. So, what will your accommodation look like in Morocco?
- Riads: These are traditional Moroccan houses or palaces with a courtyard in the middle. Think intricate tilework, calming fountains, and a proper sense of old-world charm. They’re a world away from the hustle and bustle.
- Desert Camps: Enjoy comfy tents, delicious food cooked under the stars, and a sky so crammed with stars, you’ll think you’re on another planet. It’s an experience, not just a place to sleep.
- Mountain Guesthouses: Up in the Atlas Mountains, you’ll stay with Berber families in their homes. Enjoy proper home-cooked meals, warm welcomes, and a real insight into mountain life. It’s like staying with your nan, but in Morocco.
- Hotels: Of course, we use hotels too, but we pick the best of the bunch. Think stylish, comfortable, and with a bit of local flavour.
Your Moroccan Story Awaits
A Moroccan adventure is a chance to write a new chapter in your own story. Imagine the tales you’ll tell, the memories you’ll cherish:
- The exhilaration of standing atop a mountain peak, the vast world spread out before you.
- The magic of sleeping beneath a desert sky, where the stars blaze with an intensity you’ve never seen.
- The warmth of a shared meal with a Berber family, a glimpse into a culture rich in tradition and hospitality.
Omar Adventures invites you to craft your own Moroccan story. We offer Mount Toubkal trek tours, Atlas Mountains hiking tours, and more.
Contact us today to start planning your personalised Moroccan adventure!
