Moroccan Arts and Culture

The almost medieval-like hustle and bustle of Morocco is for most travelers a world away from their own cities and towns. The culture and people are usually so completely different from what they know that they often find themselves in situations to which they have no idea how to react. The following brief explanation of Moroccan art and culture is designed to help you get the most out of your stay in this amazing country.

Art
The art of this country is truly special. Many historical examples are on display at the local museums. More modern examples are on display at art galleries and in souks. Beware of cheap imitations though!

There are so many different ways that the people express themselves – in carpets, clothing, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, painting, carving, and calligraphy. They even hold an international art festival once a year to showcase all their talent. If you ever have the opportunity to visit this country, you should consider buying some of the local artwork. Not only will it provide you with a little memento of your trip, but it will help out the local people who are usually quite poor.

Culture
Souks are a way of life in Morocco and you usually wont have to go far to find one. You can often get good bargains here, but remember that most Moroccans will have a lot more experience than you will when it comes to haggling the price so you will seldom find yourself able to get better than that which is offered.

You may find, if you are friendly and courteous enough, that you will soon start to make friends with the locals. If this happens and you are invited to a meal, it is good to keep in mind some of the local customs. For example, you will usually take off your shoes when entering a house. You can follow your host’s example in this regard. Also it is a good idea to take a gift of some sort with. If you are in a home in the city you might take some pastries or some sugar with you. If you are in the county it would be better to buy a live chicken for the household which is likely to not be quite so well off. A home invitation is perhaps the most authentic way to sample Moroccan dishes. Most Moroccan food is eaten with the hands. If you are invited to join someone for a meal, you should always eat with the right hand as the left is supposed to be used for the toilet.

Any plans to visit mosques will usually meet with failure as these are considered to be very holy places that only Muslims are allowed access to. Though this is allowed in other parts of the world, the closest you will likely get to the inside of a mosque in Morocco is if you visit some ruins or disused mosques such as Tin Mal and Smara. Most other monuments are on view to the public for a price and you can also observe certain celebrations such as the Imichal wedding Fair.

When taking photographs of the local people, it would be wisest to ask their permission. Taking a photograph of someone with out their permission – especially in rural areas – can cause offense. This may result in them demanding money from you – even if you only intended to take a scenic shot of something. In contrast, taking photographs of someone you have become friendly with is usually very welcome. Often people with whom you’ve become acquainted will take you to a place where they can get a photograph taken with you for themselves. You should not be unfriendly about this as it usually does not result in you paying for the picture or any further harassment.

Traditionally the men take to the streets and the women are in control of their homes. This means that you will not often find woman in cafés or restaurants. If you are a woman and you strike up a friendship, you will likely be invited to the person’s home or to a hamman (bath) for further association. On the other hand, if you are a man or a man and woman traveling together, you will likely be invited into a café for some tea or a meal.

In general, Moroccan culture can be an exiting and worldly experience. The people are friendly and the place is colorful. Hospitality is really a part of their culture so you can strike up friendships virtually anywhere if you have the right attitude. Usually this results in further association with these dynamic and interesting people and a real taste of Moroccan life.

Culture of Morocco ..Morocco Cultural Overview

Culture of Morocco
Morocco Cultural Overview

As an Islamic country, Morocco stands out distinctly for a significant reason. Due to the bold and strenuous efforts by King Mohammed VI, Islam in Morocco is rapidly turning out to be a tool to modernize and democratize the country. A revolutionary effort is on the way to reinvent the religion with a tolerant interpretation of the Koran. To aid this mission, the government has launched a website, a radio and a TV channel. Apart from this, religious dialogues are also held inviting the participation of elite public and religious heads. The recent efforts of the government strive to fuse Islam, modernization and civil rights.

Moroccon Languages

Morocco is a bilingual country with Arabic and French as official languages. Arabic is widely spoken by common masses while French is taught in schools. Therefore, French is extensively used in government, business and elite circles. In the city of Casablanca, English is well known and widely used. Spanish is quite popular in the north of Morocco. More than 40% of the Moroccans are of Berber origin. Though Berbers got converted to Islam eventually, their ethnic and linguistic affiliations have remained with them till this day. Therefore, Berber dialects such as Tachelhit, Tamazight and Tarifit are widely used in Morocco, even in journalism and mass media.

Islamic Clothing of Morocco

Costumes differ from town to town in Morocco being influenced by Spanish, Turkish, Balkan, Berber and French traditions. The Moroccan men wear djellaba, a long, loose, full sleeve garment with a hood. A red cap called tarbouche or Fez is worn on special occasions. Also, most Moraccan men and women wear soft, heelless, leather slippers called Baboosh, yellow in color. High-heeled sandals with silver or gold tinsel are also popular among women. The djellabas worn by women are dominated by bright colors and ornate patterns woven by hand, whereas those worn by men are plain in neutral colors. A hoodless type of djellaba called Kaftans is also popular. Despite the high costs of the traditional dress, Moroccans are strongly attached to their dress and purchase at least a new pair every year.

Moroccon Foods

Moroccan culinary traditions are predominantly based on a diet of meat and candies. A rich soup called harira; sweet empanada with meat of dove; cuscus made with semola, egg, chicken, lamb or vegetables; Tajine made with lamb or chicken; chicken stuffed with almonds, semola and raisins; the roasted meat of sheep called mchoui; and the candies of the kab-el-ghzal and almond are some of the delicious dishes of Morocco that would enthrall any visitor.

Moroccon Social Life

Principles of sound democracy are heralded in Morocco and are already on their way to modernize the country. The new family code adopted by the parliament in 2003 has conferred equal status to women in marriage, children and property. Fighting against religious fanaticism and striving to modernize Islam, Morocco is emerging as a model for democratic Islam. Ethnically and culturally, one can say that today’s Morocco is the least Arabic among Arab countries.

Moroccan Culture, Morocco, Africa

Moroccan Culture, Morocco, Africa

 
Moroccan culture is unique blend of African, Muslim and European. It´s an ancient culture that´s slowly embracing modern western values. The women are still treated very much in the Muslim style, but this is slowly changing because of increasing European influence.

The culture in Morocco, Africa is different to what you´d find in Europe. Although, initially the people might seem hard to get to know, if you´re open minded, friendly and courteous you´ll soon start to make friends with the locals.

You might even be invited in for a meal. If this happens, it´s a good idea to respect the local customs; you are normally expected to take your shoes off before entering a Moroccan house. Also, bringing a gift will is considered normal and is always a nice gesture anyway.

In the city, people often bring some kind of pastries or sugar as gifts, whereas in the countryside, they often bring a live chicken as a gift.

Being invited into a Moroccan persons home is one of the most authentic ways to sample real Moroccan cuisine. In Morocco they eat with their hands. This is perfectly normal here. You must eat only with your right hand though, as the left hand should be used for the toilet.

Unfortunately, most visitors are not allowed into the mosques, so don´t bother trying. Moroccan mosques are considered very holy places and only Muslims are allowed have access to them. Strangely, in other parts of the world entering a mosque is not normally a problem. Having said that, you can always mosques that are disused or are in ruin like Tin Mal and Smara.

Apart from the mosques, most other monuments are open to the general public. There´s usually a small entry fee.

Although, Morocco is a very religious country, culturally speaking, it´s considered to be the least Arabic amongst other Arab countries. Most of the population are in fact, of Berber origin.

Moroccan Culture

Moroccan Culture

Morocco is a nation with a rich culture and civilization. It has always been a land of cultural exchanges and encounters given its strategically-located position between the Mediterranean and Atlantic, Europe and Africa. Morocco hosted many people coming from these areas, all of them have had an impact on the social and cultural structure of the country.

The richness of the Moroccan culture comes from the various civilizations that Morocco encountered trough different eras in its history. From the Byzantine civilization to the Roman influence to the Arab civilization, then the Spanish and French, Morocco is now a panorama of genuine values of tolerance and multiculturalism and gets its unity in its diversity.

The Kingdom is well known to be a center for interfaith dialogue among Muslims, Christians and Jews and today provides an arena for open dialogue. The country is constantly offering innovating solutions to contemporary problems through progressive applications of Islamic principles.

Cultural Diversity:
The country's long-standing history has undoubtedly contributed to the emergence of a rich, authentic and diversified culture that takes several forms and manifestations, such as literature, architecture, clothing, handicrafts, traditional music and folklore and gastronomy.

Language:
The Standard Arabic is the official language in Morocco. However, French is widely used as business is conducted in French. In the north of Morocco and the Deep South, Spanish is widespread. Staff in hotels is multilingual. In tourist cities like Rabat, Fez, Marrakech and Agadir, merchants and guides speak several languages. The “Tamazight” has its origin in North Africa back 10,000 years ago and is the language Berbers speak today. The Tamazight in its historical and cultural aspects is part of the Moroccan identity.

Literature:
Two main features characterize the contemporary Moroccan literature. First, it is a bilateral literature since it is expressed in Arabic, Berber, French, Spanish and English. Second, although it is young- hardly 70 years of existence – it has grown and evolved tremendously.

Some of the literature in Morocco is written in Arabic, French, Berber and even in Spanish or English. The diversity of Moroccan literature is truly amazing, as are the writers who pen these literary masterpieces.

Architecture:
The visual style of Morocco's decorative arts has enthralled visitors for centuries. Common thèmes are a deep commitment to complex geometric, floral and calligraphic visual pattern, pared with simple, bright, and often whitewashed colors.

A walk through any medina will reveal extraordinarily complex tile, or zellij mosaics, covering public fountains, walls, and furniture. A visit to any riad “house” or medrasa “school” will reveal stone and wood carved calligraphic patterns taken from the Holly Koran, against a background of near-infinite geometric complexity.

The architecture of Morocco consists of more or less the Islamic style of construction. However the designs show signs of being profoundly influenced by Spanish styles of the mid centuries.

Moroccan architecture has witnessed an extraordinary renaissance in recent years as architects and interior designers from Morocco and around the world have taken an interest in Moroccan design elements big (courtyards) and small (lamps), rethinking and updating them.

One of the finest examples of architecture in Morocco is found in the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It ranks second in size, behind the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, the tallest mosque in the world, in addition to being one of the most beautiful.

A great portion of the Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca is built on the water of the Atlantic Ocean. There is a saying that the mosque reflects a line of Qur'an, "the throne of God was built on the water".

The interior of the mosque is even more impressive than the exterior with an amount of detail in the work unheard of at this scale, with beautiful ceramic mosaics on the walls, luxurious marble and rugs on the floor, and beautifully carved wood ceilings.

Handicrafts:
The Moroccan artisans are known all over the world for their intricate woodworks, most of which are sculpted and painted ornately. The colorful and the beautifully adorned pottery done by the Berber people of Morocco is also very popular amongst the tourists.

However, amongst the various handicrafts of Morocco, it is her lovely carpets that will leave tourists wonderstruck. Every carpet has a story to tell about one particular aspect of Morocco culture and her people.

Traditional Clothing:
Morocco's clothing tradition has been a source of great pride to Morocco's craft industry for centuries. Beginning with Moroccan carpets and leather products, Moroccan clothing has quickly gained popularity around the world.

The caftan, a long flowing Moroccan dress, the pouf, a circular leather pillow used for seating, and the babouche, leather slippers traditionally worn in mustard yellow or white, have recently become very fashionable in the West. Morocco's clothing renaissance is just beginning thanks to an exciting and talented young generation of designers who are adding a modern flair to many traditional styles and products such as the babouche and caftan.

Music and Dance:
The multi-ethnic character of the culture of Morocco is nowhere more evident than in her music and dance forms. The predominantly Arabic population in Morocco has given its music a mellifluous Arabic tone but you can also detect significant Andalusian strains in Moroccan music.

Besides, there also exist other varieties of Berber folk music and other ritual music such as Chaabi (popular) music, the Gharnati music and the languorously mystical Gnawa music of the Sub-Saharan people.

There are also many dance forms prevalent in Morocco, the most prominent amongst them being the Guedra Dance, the Casbah Dance and the very exotic and the very enchanting Belly Dance.

Gastronomy:
Moroccan gastronomy is one of the world’s greatest for its imaginative and ingenious combinations of flavors. It is based on a sophisticated blend of spices.

Moroccan cuisine is colorful, sweet spicy, vibrant and rich. Everything is cooked freshly with a lot of spices, and it is very healthy. Olive oil is at the base of many dishes in Moroccan cuisine.

Moroccan cuisine has long had a reputation of being one of the world’s most diverse and developed cuisines, and has been gaining tremendous popularity around the world as of late.

MOROCCO - LANGUAGE, CULTURE AND DOING BUSINESS

MOROCCO - LANGUAGE, CULTURE AND DOING BUSINESS

Facts and Statistics

Location: North Africa, bordering Algeria 1,559 km, Western Sahara 443 km, Spain (Ceuta)

6.3 km, Spain (Melilla) 9.6 km

Capital: Rabat

Climate: Mediterranean, becoming more extreme in the interior

Population: 32,209,101 (July 2004 est.)

Ethnic Make-up: Arab-Berber 99.1%, other 0.7%, Jewish 0.2%




Religions: Muslim 98.7%, Christian 1.1%, Jewish 0.2%

Government: constitutional monarchy

Languages in Morocco

Classical Arabic is Morocco's official language, but the country's distinctive Arabic dialect is the most widely spoken language in Morocco. In addition, about 10 million Moroccans, mostly in rural areas, speak Berber--which exists in Morocco in three different dialects (Tarifit, Tashelhit, and Tamazight)--either as a first language or bilingually with the spoken Arabic dialect. French, which remains Morocco's unofficial third language, is taught universally and still serves as Morocco's primary language of commerce and economics; it also is widely used in education and government. Many Moroccans in the northern part of the country speak Spanish. English, while still far behind French and Spanish in terms of number of speakers, is rapidly becoming the foreign language of choice among educated youth. English is taught in all public schools from the fourth year on.
Why not learn some useful Arabic or French phrases?

Moroccan Society & Culture

Islam

Islam is practised by the majority of Moroccans and governs their personal, political, economic and legal lives. Islam emanated from what is today Saudi Arabia. The Prophet Muhammad is seen as the last of God's emissaries (following in the footsteps of Jesus, Moses, Abraham, etc) to bring revelation to mankind. He was distinguished with bringing a message for the whole of mankind, rather than just to a certain peoples. As Moses brought the Torah and Jesus the Bible, Muhammad brought the last book, the Quran. The Quran and the actions of the Prophet (the Sunnah) are used as the basis for all guidance in the religion.
Among certain obligations for Muslims are to pray five times a day - at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening. The exact time is listed in the local newspaper each day. Friday is the Muslim holy day. Everything is closed. Many companies also close on Thursday, making the weekend Thursday and Friday.
During the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing. Expatriates are not required to fast; however, they must not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public. Each night at sunset, families and friends gather together to celebrate the breaking of the fast (iftar). The festivities often continue well into the night. In general, things happen more slowly during Ramadan. Many businesses operate on a reduced schedule. Shops may be open and closed at unusual times.

The Concept of Shame - Hshuma

. Moroccans' most cherished possession is their honour and dignity, which reflects not only on themselves but on all members of their extended family.
. Moroccans will go out of their way to preserve their personal honour.
. Hshuma occurs when other people know that they have behaved inappropriately.
. A Moroccan's sense of self-worth is externally focused, so the way others see them is of paramount importance.
.  If someone is shamed, they may be ostracized by society, or even worse by their family.
. To avoid hshuma, many Moroccans will say or do things publicly because it makes them look good or helps them avoid embarrassment or awkwardness.
. In business it is extremely important to verify anything that has been agreed to in front of others as it may not have been a sincere agreement and the person may have no intention of following through.  

Moroccan Family Values

. The family is the most significant unit of Moroccan life and plays an important role in all social relations.
. The individual is always subordinate to the family or group.
. Nepotism is viewed positively, since it indicates patronage of one's family.
. The family consists of both the nuclear and the extended family.
. The elderly are revered and respected and often exert a great influence on the rest of the family.
Etiquette & Customs in Morocco

Meeting Etiquette

. When Moroccans greet each other they take their time and converse about their families, friends, and other general topics.
. Handshakes are the customary greeting between individuals of the same sex.
. Handshakes may be somewhat weak according to western standards.
. Once a relationship has developed, it is common to kiss on both cheeks, starting with the left cheek while shaking hands, men with men and women with women.
. In any greeting that does take place between men and women, the woman must extend her hand first. If she does not, a man should bow his head in greeting.
. When entering a social function, shake hands with the person to your right and then continue around the room going from right to left.
. Say good-bye to each person individually when leaving.

Gift Giving Etiquette

. If you are invited to a Moroccan's home bring sweet pastries, nuts, figs, dates or flowers to the hostess.
. A small gift for the children is seen as a token of affection.
. Do not bring alcohol unless you know that your host drinks.
. Gifts are not opened when received.

Dining Etiquette

If you are invited to a Moroccan's house:
. You should remove your shoes.
. Dress smartly. Doing so demonstrates respect towards your hosts.
. Check to see if your spouse is included in the invitation. Conservative Moroccans may not entertain mixed-sex groups.
. Shake everyone's hand individually.

Watch your table manners!
. Food is generally served at a knee-high round table.
. The guest of honour generally sits next to the host.
. A washing basin will be brought to the table before the meal is served. Hold your hands over the basin while water is poured over them. Dry your hands on the towel provided.
. Do not begin eating until the host blesses the food or begins to eat.
. Food is served from a communal bowl.
. Eat from the section of the bowl that is in front of you. Never reach across the bowl to get something from the other side. As an honoured guest, choice cuts will be put in front of you.
. Scoop the food with a piece of bread or the thumb and first two fingers of the right hand.
. Eat and drink only with the right hand.
. Do not wipe your hands on your napkin.
. Water is often served from a communal glass. If you want your own glass, ask for a soft drink.
. The washing basin will be brought around the table again at the end of the meal.
. Expect to be urged to take more food off the communal plate. Providing an abundance of food is a sign of hospitality.
Business Etiquette and Protocol in Morocco


Relationships & Communication

. Moroccans prefer to do business with those they know and respect, therefore expect to spend time cultivating a personal relationship before business is conducted.
. Who you know is more important than what you know, so it is important to network and cultivate a number of contacts who may then assist you in working your way through the serpentine bureaucracy.
. Expect to be served mint tea whenever you meet someone, as this demonstrates hospitality.
. Moroccan business practices have been greatly influenced by the French and emphasize courtesy and a degree of formality.
. Since Moroccans judge people on appearances, dress and present yourself well.

Business Meeting Etiquette

. Appointments are necessary and should be made as far in advance as possible and confirmed a day or two before the meeting.
. It is best to avoid scheduling meetings during Ramadan since Muslims cannot eat or drink during the day.
. Never try to schedule meetings on Friday between 11:15 a.m. and 3 p.m. since most companies close for prayers.
. Try to arrive at meetings on time and be prepared to wait. Moroccan businesspeople who are accustomed to dealing with international companies often strive to arrive on time, although it is often difficult for them to do so in such a relationship driven culture.
. In general, Moroccans have an open-door policy, even during meetings. This means you may experience frequent interruptions. Others may even wander into the room and start a different discussion. You may join in, but do not try to bring the topic back to the original discussion until the new person leaves.
. French is generally the language of business, although some companies use English. Check which language your meeting will be conducted in, so you know if you should hire an interpreter.

Business Negotiations

. Companies are hierarchical. The highest ranking person makes decisions, but only after obtaining a group consensus.
. Decisions are reached after great deliberation.
. If the government is involved, discussions will take even longer since the ministers of several departments must often give approval.
. Moroccans are looking for long-term business relationships.
. Do not criticize anyone publicly. It is important that you do not cause your Moroccan business associates to lose face.
. Moroccans are non-confrontational. They may agree in meetings rather than cause you to lose face.
. Expect a fair amount of haggling. Moroccans seldom see an offer as final.
. Decisions are made slowly. Do not try to rush the process, as it would be interpreted as an insult.
. The society is extremely bureaucratic. Most decisions require several layers of approval.
. It may take several visits to accomplish simple tasks.
. Do not use high-pressure tactics as they will work against you.
. Moroccans can be deliberate and forceful negotiators.

 Dress Etiquette

. Business attire is formal and conservative.
. Men should wear dark coloured conservative business suits to the initial meeting.
. Women should wear elegant business suits, dresses or pantsuits.
. Women must be careful to cover themselves appropriately. Skirts and dresses should cover the knee and sleeves should cover most of the arm.
. Avoid wearing expensive accessories.

A KINGDOM OF KASBAHS

A KINGDOM OF KASBAHS

Three hours and a world away from Marrakech are the famous kasbahs (feudal family castles) of the Southern High Atlas and the Skoura Oasis. The hundred or so kasbahs date mainly from the 17th and 18th centuries, and provide an interesting insight into the lives of the powerful families that controlled the trade routes to and from the Sahara. Your journey takes you south from Marrakech over the spectacular Tiz-n-Tichka (High Atlas pass) with its views of dramatic mountain and desert landscapes to the Dades Valley on the northern edge of the Sahara.
Our recommendations
Season: all year round except mid winter.
Length: 7 nights. (A 5 nights' itinerary can be created for a short break holiday.)
Flights: Marrakech.
Prices from £450 per person (7 nights) excluding flights*
Day Nights' Stay Typical itinerary for illustration
1 2 Fly to Marrakech. Transfer** from Marrakech airport to Skoura (5 hrs) over Tizi n'Tichka pass in the High Atlas Mountains.
2 Explore the Skoura Oasis with visits (with or without guide) to local kasbahs, which may include Kasbah Amerhidl, Dar Aït Sidi el Mati and Kasbah Aït Abou.
3 Visit Kasbah Taorirt (45mins) in Ourzazate, one of the largest kasbahs in Morocco.
3 2 Transfer** to Kasbah Ellouze at Tamdaght nr Ait-Benhaddou (45 mins) a very atmospherc building in a traditional kasbah hamlet.
4 Visit the World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou whose ancient kasbahs date back to the 16th century and are some of the best conserved in Morocco. Its location is on the former caravan trading route for salt, gold and ivory between the Sahara and Marrakech. More recently it has been a backdrop to a number of well-known Hollywood films.
5 Vist the Kasbah of el Glaoui at Telouet (1hr), a stunning kasbah with a beautiful mountainous backdrop. The huge structures are crumbling but still impressive.
5 3 Transfer** on to Marrakech (2.5 hrs), and in the afternoon visit to the souks and evening visit to the main Place Jemma de Fna.
6 Visit the historic sites Saadian Tombs, Badii Palace, Bahia Palace and museums Maison Tiskiwine and Musee de Marrakech and the Medersa Ben Youssef, take lunch in the main square (a guide can be arranged).
7 Depending on flight times visit the Mellah and the Marrakech souks, gardens or museums (a guide can be arranged) and taxi transfer to airport.
Pricing: * Based on 2 persons sharing (B&B), excl. flights staying at El Borj (Marrakech), Kasbah Ellouze (Ait Benhaddou), Sawadi Lodge (Skoura). Suggested accommodation is mid-price range. Naturally Morocco can offer a range of alternative accommodations if required. Price varies by room, season and exchange rate.
Transport options: ** This itinerary is based on self drive car except where a taxi is indicated; option to have a driver or a taxi or minibus with driver. All travel times are approximate.
Extension options: Deep desert and High Atlas extensions are easily available on this suggested itinerary.

TAILOR-MADE HOLIDAYS IN MOROCCO

Naturally Morocco is a leading independent tour specialist, founded in 1996. We provide tailor-made holidays to Morocco, with or without flights, including traditional "riad" and "kasbah" style accommodation, transport, excursions and an extensive list of activities

HIGH ATLAS LOOP

For those of you who enjoy a motoring holiday this seven-day trip starts with an overnight stay in Marrakech and a night in the nearby High Atlas before you pick up your car. Your self-drive journey begins with a scenic four hour drive south over the Tiz-n-Test pass at 6,000 ft down into the Souss Valley and Taroudant, a mini Marrakech with a wonderful souk. The next two days take you east along the southern edge of the High Atlas and the northern Sahara to the Todra Gorge, where the Auberge Le Festival has cave rooms in the 525ft cliffs. It's two days back over the Atlas to Marrakech, via Ait Benhaddou, a stage-set fortified town and the Tizi-n-Tichka, at 7,400ft the highest road pass in Morocco.

Our recommendations

Season: all year round, but best done in Spring and Autumn.

Length: 7 nights.

Flights: Marrakech (3.5 hour transfer). Agadir flights also available - the driving loop starting and finishing in Agadir or Taroudant.

Prices from £600 per person (7 nights) excluding flights*

Day Nights'Stay Typical itinerary for illustration

1 1 Fly to Marrakech & taxi transfer to your accommodation in the Marrakech Medina.

2 1 Transfer - Marrakech to Ouirgane in the High Atlas.

3 1 Pick up a hire car and drive through the High Atlas and across the Tiz n'Test, a spectacular mountain pass in the High Atlas (6000ft) and stop off at the Tin Mal (1153-54) - a traditional twelfth century Almohad mosque before descending into the Souss Valley and the walled town of Taroudant (4hrs).

4 1 Drive east along the southern edge of the High Atlas to Tallouine the heart of the saffron producing area of Morocco where there is a large kasbah and is a useful stopping place for lunch, before progressing over two high passes, Tizi-n-Taghatine (1886m) and Tizi Ikhsane (1650m) to Tazenakht. From here the road takes you over the Tizi-n-Bachkoum (1700m) with some great views before skirting Ourzazate and on towards the palmeries of Skoura.

5 1 A shorter day that allows time to stop at the ruins of Kasbah Amerhidil before moving on through the Oases of Skoura and the Valley of the Roses to the town of Tinehir and the Todra Gorge. Todra is a narrow and spectacular gorge with a thrilling approach as the walls of the gorge close in around you. Your overnight stay is at Auberge le Festival which has has cave rooms in the 525ft cliffs.

6 1 Returning west your journey takes you to the the World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou whose ancient kasbahs date back to the 16th century and are some of the best conserved in Morocco. Its location is on the former salt, gold and ivory carrying caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech.

7 1 Drive to Marrakech (4 hrs) over Tizi n'Tichka pass (7,400ft) in the High Atlas Mountains, time permitting it is worth detouring to Telouet with the ruins of the ancient Glaoui Kasbah before reaching Marrakech. Afternoon visit to the souks and evening visit to the main Place Jemma de Fna.

8 Transfer to Marrakech airport for flight home.

Pricing: *Based on 2 persons sharing (B&B), 4 nights/5 days self-drive car hire (includes unlimited mileage, personal accident, super CDW (collision damage waiver)), return transfers to Marrakech airport, excl. flights, staying at Riad El Zohar (Marrakech), Palais Salaam (Taroudant), Les Jardins de Skoura (Skoura), Auberge le Festival (Todra Gorge), Kasbah Ellouze (Ait BenHaddou) Dar Eliane (Marrakech) - budget accommodation; Naturally Morocco can offer a range of alternatives if required. Price varies by room, season and exchange rate.

Transport options: All travel times are approximate. A driver can be hired for the journey if required.

Extension options: South or east to the Sahara desert or west from Marrakech to Essaouira.