Morocco

March 5-14, 2027

Experience the beauty and culture of Morocco on this active, small-group journey designed for travelers who enjoy exploring on foot. We begin with three nights along the Atlantic coast in Essaouira before heading into the stunning Atlas Mountains, where you’ll enjoy a series of guided day hikes (5–8 miles) through the Three Valleys, passing Berber villages, terraced hillsides, and expansive mountain scenery.

While in Essaouira, enjoy guided exploration of the historic medina—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—including the fishing port and scenic city walls. Optional activities may include camel or horseback riding along the coast, hands-on cooking classes, and other unique cultural experiences that bring the region to life.

Highlights also include a walk in the picturesque Ourika Valley and time to connect with local culture—perhaps over traditional Berber tea. We begin and end in Marrakech, with time to explore its vibrant medina and souks.

Hiking is led by Team Long Run guide Chuck Wilcoxen, alongside renowned ornithologist Andy Bunten, who adds a unique lens on Morocco’s landscapes and birdlife.

  • Arrival in Marrakech

    Arrive in Marrakech, where the group will gather before departing for the coast. From there, we’ll transfer to Essaouira, a relaxed seaside town known for its historic medina, ocean breezes, and laid-back charm.

    Upon arrival, we’ll settle in for a three-night stay at the intimate boutique hotel Villa Garance, ideally located within the heart of the medina. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind—perhaps take a stroll through the winding streets, enjoy fresh seafood along the harbor, or simply relax and take in the coastal atmosphere as your Moroccan journey begins.

  • Essaouira

    During our time in Essaouira, you’ll enjoy two full days to experience the charm and character of this coastal gem. At the heart of the city is its historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where whitewashed buildings, blue shutters, and winding lanes create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Explore the bustling souks, visit the vibrant fishing port, and walk along the impressive seaside ramparts with sweeping views of the Atlantic.

    Beyond exploring, there are a variety of unique experiences to enjoy. Guests may choose to participate in a hands-on culinary class at our boutique hotel, learning the flavors and techniques of traditional Moroccan cuisine. For something more adventurous, optional camel rides along the beach offer a memorable way to take in the coastline.

    Whether wandering the medina, enjoying fresh seafood by the harbor, or embracing one of these special activities, Essaouira offers a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and coastal beauty.

    We will stay at Villa Garance for the weekend.

  • Transfer to the Atlas Mountains

    After our time in Essaouira, we’ll journey inland to the village of Ouirgane, nestled in the heart of the High Atlas Mountains. Here, we’ll settle into the charming boutique property Ksar Shama, our home for the remainder of the trip.

    Perfectly suited for a hiking-focused group, Ksar Shama offers access to a wide network of trails across diverse, ever-changing landscapes. From terraced hillsides and traditional Berber villages to salt mines and the serene shores of Ouirgane Lake, each day brings a new perspective on this remarkable region.

    Guided by Chuck Wilcoxen and renowned ornithologist Andy Bunten, our hikes will be tailored to the group, offering both rewarding walks and opportunities to learn about the local environment and culture. When not on the trail, guests can enjoy the hotel's peaceful setting and amenities, making this a perfect balance of activity and relaxation in the mountains.

    We will spend the remainder of the week at Ksar Shama.

Villa Garance

 

Tucked within the heart of Essaouira’s historic medina, Villa Garance offers an intimate and elegant retreat for our stay along the coast. This charming riad features just ten spacious rooms and suites, creating a warm, boutique atmosphere ideal for small groups.

Each room is individually designed with refined Moroccan touches and opens onto a beautiful central patio, while select accommodations offer added comforts such as fireplaces, sitting areas, or direct access to the rooftop terrace—perfect for relaxing in the coastal breeze.

Guests will enjoy thoughtful amenities throughout, including private en-suite bathrooms, high-quality bedding and linens, and locally inspired bath products. With attentive 24-hour service, strong Wi-Fi, and a peaceful, non-smoking environment, Villa Garance combines comfort and authenticity in one of Morocco’s most enchanting seaside settings.

Ksar Shama

 

Set at the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, about an hour from Marrakech, Ksar Shama will be our home for a full week—an ideal base for both exploration and relaxation.

Designed as a peaceful retreat in a lush valley, the property offers a quiet escape surrounded by olive groves, gardens, and sweeping mountain views. Its traditional Moroccan architecture—rammed earth walls, tadelakt finishes, and intricate zellige tilework—blends seamlessly into the natural landscape, creating an atmosphere that is both authentic and inviting.

During our stay, you’ll experience a true sense of place, with opportunities to hike directly from the property into the surrounding mountains, visit nearby Berber villages, and take part in optional activities such as Moroccan cooking classes. Whether on the trail or at rest, Ksar Shama provides a serene and memorable setting for our time in the Atlas Mountains.

What’s Included:

  • Accommodations at carefully selected boutique hotels

  • Full board (daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

  • Guided hiking program led by Chuck Wilcoxen and Andy Bunten

  • All scheduled excursions and cultural experiences

  • Optional activities such as camel rides, cooking classes, and more

  • Ground transportation throughout the journey

Not Included:

  • International airfare

  • Gratuities for local guides and hotel staff

Olive Group Travel partners exclusively with Team Long Run (www.teamlongrun.org), a Maine-based 501 (c)(3) nonprofit that helps kids from challenging circumstances improve their futures through literacy and active play. We provide adventure travel opportunities that range from hiking remote glaciers in Iceland to strolling through the Latin Quarter in Paris. The trips are original, fun, safe, affordable, and memorable. We keep our groups small; half the fun is making life-long friends as we see the world. We offer a variety of destinations and itineraries, so please take a look and find the one that’s just right for you! As always, every penny from our profits goes toward Team Long Run’s programming, so this truly is “Philanthropic Travel.”