Marrakech en de magische valleien van de Atlas

About the destination: Gateway to the desert and the south, Marrakech is overwhelming like no other imperial city of Morocco. Its reddish-pink streets and alleys are full of sounds, sights, smells and life. The mid-summer heat is enough to prostrate most tourists. The best times to explore Marrakech are early morning, early evening, and winter, during winter temperatures are mild, but fall significantly at night, due to the cold air from the High Atlas. The Djemaa El-Fna, Assembly of the Dead, is anything but what its name suggests. A hot and crowded market by day, the Djemaa really gets rolling at sunset when the entertainers invade. This chaotic outdoor circus offers a microcosms of Morocco at its most exotic. The huge audience clusters in tight circles around the diverse cast of performers. Almost every tour of Marrakech begins at the 12th century Koutoubia Mosque, with its magnificent minaret presiding over the Djemaa. The minaret, crowned by a lantern of three golden spheres, is the oldest and purest surviving example of the architecture of the Almohads. The city’s two most breathtaking monuments date from the 16th century. Feast your eyes and cool off at the ornate Ben Youssef Madrassa, the largest Qur’anic school in North Africa. Even more lavish are the dazzling Saadian Tombs, modelled upon the interior of the Alhambra in Granada. The view from the terrace at the Badi Palace, now in ruins, is majestic. Close by we find the 19th century Bahia Palace. It is an ornate and beautiful palace with restful fountained gardens. To escape from the relentless midday sun, wander in the lush Menara Gardens and lounge in the charming lakeside pavilion. Marrakech is noisy, busy, dusty and chaotic. It is a visual and sensory banquet of colour, diverse cultures, architecture and design. Marrakech delivers an exotic and exciting taste of Africa and the best part is that it is only a few hours away from Europe by plane.

About the destination: Gateway to the desert and the south, Marrakech is overwhelming like no other imperial city of Morocco. Its reddish-pink streets and alleys are full of sounds, sights, smells and life. The mid-summer heat is enough to prostrate most tourists. The best times to explore Marrakech are early morning, early evening, and winter, during winter temperatures are mild, but fall significantly at night, due to the cold air from the High Atlas. The Djemaa El-Fna, Assembly of the Dead, is anything but what its name suggests. A hot and crowded market by day, the Djemaa really gets rolling at sunset when the entertainers invade. This chaotic outdoor circus offers a microcosms of Morocco at its most exotic. The huge audience clusters in tight circles around the diverse cast of performers. Almost every tour of Marrakech begins at the 12th century Koutoubia Mosque, with its magnificent minaret presiding over the Djemaa. The minaret, crowned by a lantern of three golden spheres, is the oldest and purest surviving example of the architecture of the Almohads. The city’s two most breathtaking monuments date from the 16th century. Feast your eyes and cool off at the ornate Ben Youssef Madrassa, the largest Qur’anic school in North Africa. Even more lavish are the dazzling Saadian Tombs, modelled upon the interior of the Alhambra in Granada. The view from the terrace at the Badi Palace, now in ruins, is majestic. Close by we find the 19th century Bahia Palace. It is an ornate and beautiful palace with restful fountained gardens. To escape from the relentless midday sun, wander in the lush Menara Gardens and lounge in the charming lakeside pavilion. Marrakech is noisy, busy, dusty and chaotic. It is a visual and sensory banquet of colour, diverse cultures, architecture and design. Marrakech delivers an exotic and exciting taste of Africa and the best part is that it is only a few hours away from Europe by plane.

About the destination: Agafay Desert, located just a short drive from Marrakech, is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and serenity of Morocco's desert landscapes. With its stark beauty and endless expanse of sand dunes, Agafay offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. From camel rides to quad biking, there are plenty of ways to explore the desert and take in the stunning views. You can also enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars, complete with local music and entertainment. For those looking for a more immersive experience, there are several luxury tented camps where you can spend the night in comfort while still enjoying the tranquility of the desert. Wake up to the sound of birdsong and the gentle swaying of the tents, and step outside to watch the sunrise over the dunes. Agafay Desert is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers a glimpse into the natural beauty and cultural richness of Morocco. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a break from the city, Agafay is the perfect choice for your next trip.

About the destination: Nestled in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, Ouirgane is a tranquil retreat that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and traditional Moroccan charm. Just an hour’s drive from the bustling city of Marrakech, this hidden gem provides a peaceful escape with its lush valleys, shimmering lakes, and picturesque Berber villages. The area's mild climate and stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking respite from the urban hustle. Ouirgane is renowned for its vibrant local culture and warm hospitality. Visitors can explore traditional Berber homes, indulge in authentic Moroccan cuisine, and witness daily life in the local souks. The region is also famous for its artisanal crafts, including intricate pottery, handwoven rugs, and beautifully crafted jewelry. Staying in a local guesthouse or a charming riad allows travelers to immerse themselves fully in the serene ambiance and rich cultural heritage of the area. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them occupied in Ouirgane. The surrounding mountains and valleys offer numerous hiking and trekking opportunities, with trails that cater to all levels of experience. The Ouirgane Lake, with its clear blue waters, is perfect for a leisurely paddle or a refreshing swim. For a more adventurous experience, visitors can embark on guided treks into the High Atlas Mountains, where they can enjoy breathtaking views and encounter diverse flora and fauna. Whether you are looking to relax in a peaceful setting, explore the great outdoors, or delve into the local culture, Ouirgane is a destination that promises a memorable experience. With its stunning scenery, welcoming communities, and rich traditions, it captures the essence of Morocco’s natural and cultural beauty, making it a must-visit for any traveler.

About the destination: About 60 km from Marrakech lies the Ourika Valley, the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the red city and feel the pleasurable taste of nature. The freshness of the vegetation, the views from the mountain and the roar of its seven waterfalls, make Ourika one of the main tourist attractions of this area of the country.

About the destination: Gateway to the desert and the south, Marrakech is overwhelming like no other imperial city of Morocco. Its reddish-pink streets and alleys are full of sounds, sights, smells and life. The mid-summer heat is enough to prostrate most tourists. The best times to explore Marrakech are early morning, early evening, and winter, during winter temperatures are mild, but fall significantly at night, due to the cold air from the High Atlas. The Djemaa El-Fna, Assembly of the Dead, is anything but what its name suggests. A hot and crowded market by day, the Djemaa really gets rolling at sunset when the entertainers invade. This chaotic outdoor circus offers a microcosms of Morocco at its most exotic. The huge audience clusters in tight circles around the diverse cast of performers. Almost every tour of Marrakech begins at the 12th century Koutoubia Mosque, with its magnificent minaret presiding over the Djemaa. The minaret, crowned by a lantern of three golden spheres, is the oldest and purest surviving example of the architecture of the Almohads. The city’s two most breathtaking monuments date from the 16th century. Feast your eyes and cool off at the ornate Ben Youssef Madrassa, the largest Qur’anic school in North Africa. Even more lavish are the dazzling Saadian Tombs, modelled upon the interior of the Alhambra in Granada. The view from the terrace at the Badi Palace, now in ruins, is majestic. Close by we find the 19th century Bahia Palace. It is an ornate and beautiful palace with restful fountained gardens. To escape from the relentless midday sun, wander in the lush Menara Gardens and lounge in the charming lakeside pavilion. Marrakech is noisy, busy, dusty and chaotic. It is a visual and sensory banquet of colour, diverse cultures, architecture and design. Marrakech delivers an exotic and exciting taste of Africa and the best part is that it is only a few hours away from Europe by plane.