Fantastic Experiences, Great Value

020 7263 3000

Grand Tour of Morocco + Atlas Mountains + Moroccan Coast (no international flights)

Chouara Tannery, Fes
Camels in Erg Chebbi
Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco
Terraces, Imlil
Walled Medina,  Essaouira
Essaouira Market
Incl flights, accommodation & transfers
From   £2598 £2448
14 days

Holiday highlights

  • 13 nights in magical MoroccoClick here for more information about Morocco.
  • Discover the four imperial cities of Fes, Meknes, Marrakech and Rabat.
  • Delve into the souks of Marrakech and witness the hubbub of Djemaa el Fna.
  • Explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis, once the Empire’s most remote base.
  • Witness the vibrant colours of the Erg Chebbi dunes on the edge of the Sahara.
  • Overnight in a traditional mountain village and hike in the Atlas Mountains.
  • Relax in the walled medina of Essaouira on the Moroccan coast.
  • Ask us if you would like us to arrange flights from the UK.

View this Itinerary in Photos

  • Make your own way to Marrakech, one of the four Imperial cities of Morocco, with the Atlas Mountains visible in the distance. Upon arrival you are met at the airport and escorted to your hotel. Enjoy free time for your first experience of the city.

    As there are a variety of flight options with many different airlines and from different airports (some of which we cannot book directly), flights from the UK are not included on this holiday. If you would like us to arrange flights, please let us know and we will check the availability and price.

  • This morning is spent exploring the energetic and frenetic city of Marrakech, founded due to its strategic position at the crossroads of the ancient caravan routes. After breakfast your guide will escort you to the old quarter where the tour will begin with a visit to the famous Koutoubia Mosque, the minaret of which is an iconic symbol of the city. Then explore the marble Saadian Tombs, accessed via the Kasbah Mosque, and the 19th century Bahia Palace, covered in colourful tile work and surrounded by eight-hectares of gardens. Your guide will then lead you through the bustling labyrinthine alleys of the souk in the old medina. Here, an abundance of goods can be purchased including precariously heaped spices, hand-worked leather, jewellery and ceramics.

    The afternoon is free for you to either relax at your hotel or further explore the souk and its surroundings. Perhaps venture to the Djemaa el Fna, the main square, which is located opposite the Koutoubia Mosque and presents a frenzy of activity including a myriad of food stalls and traditional entertainers such as snake charmers, musicians and acrobats. Must see sites outside of the medina include the beautifully manicured gardens of Jardin Majorelle and Yves St Laurent which also act as a tranquil respite from the hubbub of the souk.

    Included Activities: Guided tour of Marrakech.

    Included Meals: Breakfast at the hotel.

  • After breakfast, depart Marrakech for the port-city of Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and the bustling economic centre of the country. After lunch (included) enjoy a guided tour of the main sites of ‘Casa’ as the locals affectionately call the city. Your tour today includes a visit to the impressive Hassan II Mosque, uniquely set on a rocky platform reclaimed from the ocean. From the street, the structure appears to be floating on the surface of the water. Inaugurated in 1993, the mosque features the highest minaret in the world at 200m which can be seen from all over the city. In fact, due to the sheer scale of the building you can often be tricked into thinking that it is much nearer than it actually is. After your tour of the mosque your guide will take you through the Habbous district, packed with open-air markets selling traditional Moroccan fare, Mohammed V Square, and the residential area of Anfa – the oldest part of the city with a rich Berber and Roman history.

    Journey: 150 miles (approximately 3 hours).

    Included Activities: Guided tour of Casablanca.

    Included Meals: Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch in a restaurant in Casablanca.

  • After breakfast, transfer for one hour along the coast to Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. Enjoy a guided tour of this fascinating city, known for landmarks that showcase its Islamic and French-colonial past. These include the Kasbah of Udayas surrounded by formal gardens that overlook the ocean, and the iconic 12th century minaret of Hassan Tower which soars above the ruins of the mosque below. Of most importance is the official residence of the King of Morocco, the Royal Palace (Mechouar), and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.

    After time for lunch, the rest of the day will be at leisure to further explore the city or make use of the facilities at your hotel.

    Journey: 60 miles (approximately 1.5 hours).

    Included Activities: Guided tour of Rabat.

    Included Meals: Breakfast at the hotel.

  • Depart the capital after breakfast and take a two hour drive to Meknes. Once the heart of the Moroccan Sultanate, this imperial city now has a more laid back atmosphere. Your tour will take you to the famous sites of Bab Mansour gate, the Hdim Square, the Royal Stables and the Jewish quarter. You have lunch at a local restaurant before travelling to the World Heritage site of Volubilis, set on the ledge of a high plateau and is visible for miles on approach. Founded in the 3rd century BC as the Mauritanian capital, it quickly became a vital outpost of the Roman Empire with many fine buildings and important illustrative examples of the interface between the indigenous and Roman cultures with vast mosaics still present. Covering a total area of over 40 hectares, the site is partially excavated and extremely well-preserved, and represents the Roman Empire’s most remote base. Volubilis offers an additional layer to the history of this region and is one of the richest sites of this period in the whole of North Africa.

    After time spent in Meknes and Volubilis continue to the final Imperial City of Fes.

    Journey: 180 miles (approximately 4-5 hours).

    Included Activities: Guided tours of Meknes and the ruins of Volubilis.

    Included Meals: Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch at a restaurant in Meknes.

  • This morning is dedicated to exploring the Medina-city of Fes el Bali – the old town of Fes that seems suspended in time. Your guide will help you to navigate the winding alleys and busy streets of the Old Town lined with stalls selling anything and everything. The spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco, Fes was once one of the world’s great centres of education and its religious institutions, libraries and mosques pay testament to this. Visit Medressa el Attarine, the iconic tanneries of Chouara and the splendid Fondouk Nejjarine – a beautifully restored 18th century inn.

    The afternoon is free to further explore the Old Town, venture into Fes el Jedid (the New Town), or relax at your hotel.

    Included Activities: Guided tour of Fes.

    Included Meals: Breakfast at the hotel.

  • After an early breakfast, depart your hotel in Fes for the journey to the oasis town of Erfoud on the edge of the Sahara Desert. The landscape today will gradually change during the approximate eight hour drive from the lush olive groves and palm trees circling Fes, via the cedar woods of the middle Atlas at the Immouzzer Kander, to the arid desert conditions of Erfoud.

    The first stop is the unexpected ski town of Ifrane. Modelled on architecture more commonly found in the Swiss and German Alps, Ifrane is known for its wooden chalets and is often dusted in snow in the winter months. A short stop is made here where you can purchase a mint tea or stroll through the town.

    Exiting the town of Ifrane will take you through the dense cedar, pine and oak forests of the middle Atlas. This mountainous region is home to the only species of macaques outside of Asia, the Barbary macaques, and there will be good opportunities for wildlife spotting here. You will also visit the village of Azrou, an important handicraft centre.

    Lunch will be taken at a restaurant in the Berber town of Midelt with fantastic views of the High Atlas Mountains. Then continue through the Ziz Valley, thronged with palm trees and a striking contrast to the snowy climate of Ifrane. Finally, you will travel through the medjool date groves of Errachiada before arriving in Erfoud where the evening is free to relax at the hotel or explore the nearby souk that sells local dates and fresh produce from the region.

    Journey: 260 miles (approximately 7-8 hours).

    Included Meals: Breakfast at your hotel. Lunch in Midelt. Dinner at your hotel.

  • Enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel, perhaps laze in the sun around the swimming pool, indulge at the spa or take a traditional hammam.

    After time for lunch, board your 4x4 vehicle to explore the desert. Visit a Gnawa community, who were originally slaves bought from Sudan, and Lake Merzouga which often has flocks of flamingos feeding in the shallow waters. You also visit the traditional town of Rissani, the cradle of the Alaouite dynasty and a former major caravan centre. The town remains an important commercial centre with a large souk, famous for its leather products and fossil sellers.

    You then drive to the dunes of Erg Chebbi to witness the sunset. The dunes are the most accessible of the Sahara and are renowned for their vibrant hues which are most spectacular at sunrise or sunset when the sands changes from shades of deep yellow and gold through to pink, magenta and purple.

    Once the sun has dipped below the horizon, check-in to your traditional Berber-style desert camp and have some leisure time in the dunes. Then enjoy a Berber feast with several courses, with after dinner entertainment including authentic desert music performed by the nomadic people of Erg Chebbi.

    The sky in this part of the world is extremely clear and void of any pollution, so is the perfect environment to stargaze.

    Journey: 30 miles (approximately 1 hour).

    Included Activities: 4x4 desert jeep drive.

    Included Meals: Breakfast at your hotel. Dinner in your desert camp.

  • Rise early to witness the mesmerising sunrise over the dunes before sampling a typical nomadic desert breakfast. Then, take a 4x4 jeep out of the dunes and continue your journey, travelling through Tinghit and the magnificent Todra Gorge, a trench through the High Atlas mountains. The gigantic rock walls, rising a staggering 250m high, are the main spectacle of the gorge with the narrowest section best navigated by foot to fully take in the magnitude. You have lunch in a local restaurant, then continue along the ‘road of 1,000 Kasbahs’ passing through the dramatic scenery. You arrive at your hotel in the early evening.

    Journey: 160 miles (approximately 4 - 5 hours).

    Included Activities: 4x4 desert jeep drive.

    Included Meals: Breakfast at your hotel. Lunch at a restaurant. Dinner at your hotel.

    On certain departure dates your hotel on this day will be in Ouarzazate, approximately two hours beyond Dades. In this case, Day 9 will involve two hours more driving and Day 10 will have two hours less driving. Ask us for details, or Check Availability to see which hotel is used on the date you are interested in.

  • Today the tour returns to the imperial city of Marrakech. Drive to Ouarzazate, where you see the centuries old Kasbah Telouet which, although in a state of ruin, is still an extraordinary site offering a glimpse of the style of Moroccan political government from a century ago. A short drive from Ouarzazate lies the UNESCO-listed adobe city of Ait Ben Haddou, a great example of Moroccan earthen clap architecture. A historic ksar (fortified village) along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech, Ait Ben Haddou is one of the best-preserved with several families still residing within the walls. The city is also famous for its appearance in a variety of Hollywood films, including Ridley Scott’s Gladiator. Then cross the Atlas Mountains, arriving in Marrakech in the evening.

    Journey: 200 miles (approximately 6-7 hours).

    Included Activities: Guided tour of Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou.

    Included Meals: Breakfast at your hotel. Lunch at a restaurant.

     

  • Take a 90-minute transfer from Marrakech to the village of Imlil, located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. After settling into your hotel, and time for lunch, start your hike of around three hours from Imlil. You walk up to the Tizi n'Tamatert pass at 2,300m, passing Berber villages and the Tamtert Forest. Continue to the summit for views over the valleys, with your guide explaining the Berber way of life. You then descend to Imlil to enjoy the late afternoon views of the mountains.

    Journey: 40 miles (approximately 90 minutes).

    Included Meals: Breakfast at the hotel.

  • Pass through the hamlets of Ait Souka, Targa and Imoula on the way to the Berber village of Aroumd, where you get views of the ancient irrigated terraces of barley, corn and vegetables, surrounded by almond and walnut trees. Continue to Achan, where you join a local family to experience traditional Berber hospitality over an authentic meal. 

    Then take a four-hour transfer to Essaouira on the coast in the late afternoon.

    Journey: 150 miles (approximately 4 hours).

    Included Meals: Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch at a guesthouse in Achan.

  • A free day in Essaouira. Wander the UNESCO-listed coastal town of Essaouira, said to be Morocco’s most relaxed destination. Explore the winding streets replete with boutique galleries, cafés and restaurants or head to the port where the iconic blue fishing boats are moored creating a picture-perfect vision. 

    Perhaps, spend some time on the beach with its wide sandy bay, but be aware of the winds which make Essaouira a prime location for windsurfing and kitesurfing or relax around the pool in your hotel.

    Included Meals: Breakfast at the hotel.

  • Take a three-hour transfer to Marrakesh airport in time for your return flight, arranged by yourself.

    Journey: 120 miles (approximately 3 hours).

    Included Meals: Breakfast at the hotel.

Extend Your Holiday

See some exciting extension options to your holiday. Click below for more information.

Moroccan Coast Extension

from £279

Accommodation

Accommodation in Marrakech

Kenzi Menara Palace

Included
Balcony overlooking Pool, Kenzi Menara, Marrakech
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
79%
79%
Service
67%
67%
Location
58%
58%

Standard Hotel: Located opposite the ancient original ramparts of the walled city, surrounded by manicured lawns and the olive and citrus groves of the Agdal Royal Gardens, the Kenzi Menara Palace is a tranquil haven. A short drive from the activity of Djemaa El-Fna, the hotel offers respite from the heat of Morocco and the energy of the medina. Guests can relax in eight hectares of the hotel with landscaped tropical gardens, charming patios and an inviting pool. Rooms are spacious with a private veranda and finished in an Arabo-Andalusia style. There are a total of four dining areas including an al fresco terrace, a Moroccan restaurant, a relaxed pool bar and a modern Italian restaurant. The hotel also has a bar serving a wide range of alcoholic beverages.

Why stay here: The Kenzi Menara Palace is an ideal place to relax in after exploring the lively medina of Marrakech with opulent grounds and great facilities.

Hotel Facilities

  • WiFi is available throughout the hotel and is free of charge.

  • Swimming pool, spa, tennis courts and gardens.

  • The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage and a wake-up call service.

About the room

All rooms have free WiFi, air conditioning, a TV, a telephone, ensuite bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities, a minibar, a hairdryer and a safe.

Accommodation in Casablanca

Idou Anfa

Included
Idou Anfa, Casablanca
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
60%
60%
Service
60%
60%
Location
67%
67%

Standard Hotel: The Idou Anfa Hotel and Spa is located in the heart of Casablanca’s business district, close to the city centre and with excellent views of the ocean and the Hassan II Mosque. This vibrant and modern hotel has spacious rooms with air conditioning and en-suite facilities. There is a swimming pool, spa, gym, coffee house and restaurant on site.

Why stay here: The Idou Anfa is well located to explore Casablanca, and features panoramic views of the city.

Hotel Facilities

  • WiFi is available throughout the hotel and is free of charge.
  • Swimming pool, spa, gym and restaurant.
  • The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage and a wake-up call service.

About the room

All rooms have free WiFi, air conditioning, a TV, en-suite bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities, a minibar, a hairdryer and a safe.

Accommodation in Rabat

Soundouss Hotel

Included
Hotel Soundouss, Rabat

Standard Hotel: An intimate, well-furnished hotel in Rabat, providing a quiet escape from the rush of the city. There are three restaurants serving a variety of Moroccan and international dishes, and a piano bar with a baby grand. The rooms are well appointed and air conditioned.

Why stay here: The Soundouss is a comfortable hotel with a variety of dining options.

Hotel facilities

• Free WiFi is available in all areas

• There are three restaurants and a bar

• There is a piano bar

About the room

All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, WiFi, a TV, a telephone, a mini bar, a safety deposit box, a hair dryer.

Room types available

Superior room.

This is our standard hotel in 2024. 

Accommodation in Fes

Hotel Barcelo Medina

Included
Hotel Barcelo Medina, Fes
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
72%
72%
Service
78%
78%
Location
83%
83%

Standard Hotel: The Barcelo Fes Medina is a modern hotel located next to the old medina offering a haven of peace from the bustling streets. The restaurant serves typical Moroccan dishes as well as international fare. Cocktails can be enjoyed in the Jazz Bar which often has live music. The rooms at the hotel are spacious and clean with good amenities.

Why stay here: The hotel is perfectly located for exploring the medina of Fes.

Hotel Facilities

  • WiFi is available throughout the hotel and is free of charge.

  • Swimming pool, spa, hammam, solarium and fitness centre.

  • The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage and a wake-up call service.

About the room

All rooms have free WiFi, air conditioning, a TV, a telephone, ensuite bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities, a minibar, a hairdryer and a safe.

This is our standard hotel in 2024. 

Accommodation in Erfoud

Kasbah Hotel Xaluca

Included
Swimming Pool, Kasbah Hotel Xaluca
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
80%
80%
Service
76%
76%
Location
80%
80%

Standard Hotel: Erfoud stands at ‘the door to the desert’, and the Kasbah Hotel Xaluca sits nestled in a region between the dunes and palms of the area. The hotel has been constructed using traditional adobe materials that give it a distinctive character. The spacious rooms are traditionally decorated with wooden ceilings, tiled floors and warm, rich colours that evoke the feeling of a desert camp. The hotel combines tradition with modern amenities and dinner is included in one of the four dining rooms showcasing Moroccan cuisine as well as international dishes. The pool is the perfect place to relax at before heading into the desert in your 4x4 vehicle.

Why stay here: The Kasbah Hotel Xaluca is the perfect location to experience the desert.

Hotel Facilities

  • WiFi is available throughout the hotel and is free of charge.

  • Swimming pool, fitness centre, spa and hammam.

  • The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage and a wake-up call service.

About the room

All rooms have free WiFi, air conditioning, a TV, a telephone, ensuite bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities, a minibar, a hairdryer and a safe.

Accommodation in Erg Chebbi

Azawad Desert Camp

Included
Sunset, Azawad Desert Camp
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
70%
70%
Service
64%
64%
Location
88%
88%

Standard Hotel: An authentic yet comfortable desert experience, the Azawad Desert Camp offers a series of nomadic style tents with the finest Berber decorations surrounded by golden sand dunes reaching up to 150m in altitude. Breakfast and Dinner are included during your stay with a traditional desert meal being served in the evening alongside entertainment in the form of Berber music and dance. Accommodation is in the form of a traditional nomadic tent, decorated with Berber crafted materials and furnished with modern amenities. All tents have a private ensuite bathroom with hot water.

Why stay here: Azawad Desert Camp is perfectly and uniquely located amid the heart of the Erg Chebbi sand dunes. Experiencing a luxurious Berber camp under the pristine Saharan sky is unforgettable.

Hotel Facilities

  • A dining tent serving traditional Berber cuisine.

  • Outdoor seating areas to enjoy the beauty and vastness of the desert.

About the room

All rooms have a private ensuite bathroom.

Accommodation in Ouarzazate

Hotel Xaluca Dades

Included
Swimming Pool, Xaluca Dades
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
71%
71%
Service
81%
81%
Location
79%
79%

Standard Hotel: The Xaluca Dades is situated at 1,612 meters above sea level, amongst the valleys and mountains of the High Atlas with stunning panoramic views of the Dades Valley. The hotel is styled in the traditional adobe of local houses which allows it to blend into the scenery. Rooms here are generously sized and decorated with traditional African styles. The hotel features an outdoor pool with Jacuzzi and a large terrace as well as a spa and hammam. Dinner is included in the restaurant, which has incredible views of the surrounding landscape and serves a wide range of classic Moroccan and international dishes.

*This hotel is used for certain departure dates. Dades is located approximately two hours before Ouarzazate, so staying at this hotel will involvetwo-hours less travel time on Day 9 and two hours more on Day 10. Ask us or Check Availability for dates.

Why stay here: The Xaluca Dades sits in a truly spectacular setting with sweeping views of the natural beauty.

Hotel Facilities

  • WiFi is available throughout the hotel and is free of charge.

  • Swimming pool, spa, hammam, fitness centre and sports area including a tennis court.

  • The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage and a wake-up call service.

About the room

All rooms have free WiFi, air conditioning, a TV, a telephone, ensuite bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities, a minibar, a hairdryer and a safe.

Accommodation in Imlil

Riad Jnane Imlil

Included
Swimming Pool, Riad Jnane, Imlil
Llama Travel Customer Rating
Overall
87%
87%
Service
89%
89%
Location
89%
89%

Standard Hotel: Riad Jnane Imlil is an authentic, famil-run guesthouse in the village of Imlil located in the foothills of Mount Toubkal in the High Atlas Mountains. The nine rooms and common areas are traditionally decorated in Berber design with decorative tiles, handcrafted furniture and Moroccan paintings. The riad offers a roof terrace with stunning panoramic views of the beautiful landscape of the Atlas Mountains, as well as a pool to relax in. The restaurant serves delicious Moroccan dishes.

Why stay here: Spend a night in the shadows of the Atlas Mountains with traditional Moroccan hospitality.

Hotel Facilities

  • WiFi is available throughout the hotel and is free of charge.

  • Swimming pool.

About the room

All rooms have free WiFi, air conditioning, a TV, a telephone, ensuite bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities, a minibar, a hairdryer and a safe.

Accommodation in Essaouira

Hotel MGallery

Included
Pool, MGallery, Essaouira

Standard Hotel: The Hotel le Medina Essaouira Thalassa sea & spa – Mgallery is located on the edge of Essaouira’s vast beach. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel is only a two-minute walk away from the alleys of the UNESCO-listed medina housed within the defensive ramparts of the town, the bustling fishing port and the casbah. The hotel is an ideal place to relax after a tour of Morocco and has the benefit of a private beach, an outdoor pool and a spa. The hotel has three restaurants offering traditional Moroccan meals as well as international fare.

Why stay here: Perfectly positioned to enjoy all that Essaouira has to offer, the MGallery Hotel offers a relaxing end to your time in Morocco.

Hotel Facilities

  • WiFi is available throughout the hotel and is free of charge.

  • Swimming pool, spa, fitness centre and private beach.

  • The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage and a wake-up call service.

About the room

All rooms have free WiFi, air conditioning, a TV, a telephone, ensuite bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities, a minibar, a hairdryer and a safe.

Extensions

Moroccan Coast Extension

from £279

3 days Extension

After touring Morocco, you may find yourself in need of a relaxing few days. This extension takes you to the laid-back coastal town of Essaouira, lapped by the Atlantic Ocean. Here, you can wander around the ancient fortified town and indulge in the relaxed cafés or in one of the many eateries dotted throughout the lanes whilst you process all the things that you have seen throughout your tour. The climate is warm but there can be strong breezes from the Atlantic. The hotel has beautiful grounds and a pool to relax around, and there is a beach which is good for wind-sports. Your time in this small town will be spent strolling through the old town, perusing the various boutiques, enjoying fresh seafood and taking things easy.

Day 1 – Transfer to the town of Essaouira located on the Atlantic coast.

Take a three-hour journey to the coastal town of Essaouira. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. Enjoy some free town exploring this relaxed fishing town.

Day 2 – Enjoy a day of leisure in Essaouira.

Wander the UNESCO-listed coastal town of Essaouira, said to be Morocco’s most relaxed destination. Explore the winding streets replete with boutique galleries, cafés and restaurants, or head to the port where the iconic blue fishing boats are moored creating a picture-perfect vision. The citadel is also well worth a visit. Perhaps, spend some time on the beach with its wide sandy bay, but be aware of the winds which make Essaouira a prime location for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Or perhaps just relax around the pool in your hotel.

Day 3 – Transfer to Marrakech Airport for your return flight to the UK.

Take a three-hour transfer to Marrakesh airport for your flight to the UK.

 

See the Grand Tour of Morocco + Moroccan Coast holiday for more information, including hotels.

You can also combine this holiday with the Atlas Mountains on our Grand Tour of Morocco + Atlas Mountains + Moroccan Coast holiday.

2024

Prices include

Accommodation (bed and breakfast except where indicated); transfers; tours; service of guides and local reps.

Prices do not include

International flights, any optional excursions, travel insurance, tips.

Flights from the UK

As there are a variety of flight options with many different airlines and from different airports (some of which we cannot book directly), flights from the UK are not included on this holiday. If you would like us to arrange flights, please let us know and we will check the availability and price.

Holiday Information

All the practical information you need regarding your trip is found here. From how to prepare before you leave and travelling to your destination, to advice on travelling within your country of choice.

About Your Holiday

  • Prices listed are per person and based on two persons sharing a room and include all flights from the UK and within destination, service of guides and reps (please note that tips are not included), accommodation and all transfers and excursions listed in the itinerary. Where applicable, entrance fees, taxes and charges are included in our prices at the rates advised to us at the time of preparation. An adjustment will be made to your price if any of these change before your holiday. UK airport taxes are included.

  • All the flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate

    For holidays not including any flights, financial protection is provided through IPP: https://www.llamatravel.com/ipp-protection

  • In many cases, the best way to describe our holidays is flexible tours, so you can choose where to visit by combining different extensions and excursions, and which hotels to stay in. In most cases, you will be with other Llama Travellers, but not necessarily the same people throughout. This allows you to get to know like-minded people, but not have to spend all your time with the same group. If we don't have anyone else taking a particular part of a holiday, we will normally operate this just for you.

    In some cases, we operate more traditional tours, with the same Llama Travel group travelling together for the majority of the holiday, which allows land travel from one location to another, and in this case we may have a minimum number of travellers required to operate the group.

    Excursions are usually taken together with other Llama Travel customers in groups of no more than 18 people. If we have more than 18 booked, we operate two groups. These will usually be in English, although in some places, especially on wildlife excursions, the excursions may be operated by one of our local partners, so you may be with people other than Llama Travel customers and the group may be a mix of English and other languages. In these cases, group sizes can sometimes be larger. If you would like to know the likely situation for your holiday, please ask us and we will be able to check. Transfers may be with more than 18 people.

    We get a wide range of people taking our holidays, with probably the largest group being couples aged in their forties to sixties, or even older. However, we also have a large number of customers in their twenties and thirties, especially for some of the more active holidays. What unites everyone is a sense of curiosity and a desire to discover new cultures, landscapes and wildlife. Although most of our customers travel with friends or family, we also have quite a few single travellers who are happy to mix and match as described above.

    Group Size
    Most holidays can operate with a minimum of 2 passengers, but some holidays have a higher minimum group size. If we have fewer than the minimum number of passengers, we will let you know two months before departure. In this case, we will refund you any monies paid or offer you an alternative option. It may be possible to operate the trip for fewer than 4 passengers for an additional cost.

    All holidays in Europe have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.
    All holidays in Namibia or South Africa have a minimum group size of 6 passengers.
    All holidays in Kenya have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.
    All holidays in Asia have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.
    All holidays in Costa Rica and Mexico have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.

Booking Conditions

How To Book

  • To book a holiday or discuss your requirements, please call us on 020 7263 3000. We can usually confirm availability immediately, but may need to check with a supplier first.

  • You can pay your deposit by bank transfer, cheque, standard UK debit card or non-premium UK personal Visa / MasterCard credit card. Balance payments can be made by bank transfer or cheque. We do not accept cards for balance payments. We are unable to accept cash.

Before You Go

  • To issue some tickets, we require passport details and ages when you book. If you subsequently change your passport, please let us know as soon as possible.

    Latin America

    Visas are not required in advance for British citizens for any Llama Travel Latin American destination. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the appropriate consulate.

    If you are flying via another country, especially the US, you need to comply with the appropriate immigration requirements. Please ask us for details.

    You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the minimum period needed if you are transiting in Europe.

    There is an entry fee to enter Chile for citizens of Australia, the US, Canada and some other countries which must be paid upon arrival. There is also an entry fee for US and Canadian citizens visiting Argentina, which must be paid in advance online.

    If children are not travelling with both parents, some countries require a letter of consent to enter or depart. Please consult the appropriate consulate.

    Africa

    British nationals can enter Morocco, South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana for a visit of up to 90 days without a visa. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the appropriate consulate. You need a passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For South Africa, you need a passport with two blank pages.

    For Zimbabwe, British nationals will be granted a KAZA Univisa (valid for travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia and day trips into Botswana) visa, for a fee, paid in cash. This is easiest to obtain upon arrival at the airport or border post, rather than via an agency in the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Zimbabwe consulate. You need a passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK.

    For Kenya, British nationals require a visa, which must be obtained online in advance, and for which there is a cost. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the e-visas website. For more information, see the website of the Kenya High Commission. Children aged 16 and below do not require a visa to enter Kenya. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Kenya consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages, valid for six months after your return to the UK.

    If children are not travelling with both parents, some countries require a letter of consent to enter or depart. Please consult the appropriate consulate. In South Africa and Namibia, children under 18 must also carry an unabridged birth certificate.

    You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the minimum period needed if you are transiting in Europe.

    To issue some tickets, we require passport details and ages when you book. If you subsequently change your passport, please let us know as soon as possible.

    Asia & the Middle East

    To visit Jordan, you need a full 10 year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. You will need a visa to enter Jordan. The Jordan visa is included in the price of your holiday. On arrival in Amman our representatives will meet you prior to immigration and this will be provided to you free of charge. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Jordanian consulate.

    All visitors to Sri Lanka, including British nationals, require an electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which must be obtained online in advance, and for which there is a cost. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the ETA website. For more information, see the website of the Sri Lanka High Commission. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Sri Lanka consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages, valid for six months after your return to the UK.

    All visitors to India, including British nationals, require a visa, which can be obtained online in advance, and for which there is a cost. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the e-visa website. For more information, see the website of the India High Commission. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Indian consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages, valid for six months after your return to the UK.

    Visitors from 13 countries, including the UK, can travel to Vietnam visa-free for stays up to 45 days. For stays longer than 45 days, a visa is required at a cost. This can be applied for online on the e-visa website. Stays longer than 90 days are not permitted. You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Vietnamese consulate.

    To visit Cambodia, a visa is required at a cost. This can be applied for online on the e-visa website. You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Cambodian consulate.

    To visit Laos, a visa is required at a cost. This can be applied for online on the e-visa website. You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Laotian consulate.

    If you are arranging a stopover in Singapore, you must complete an electronic SG Arrival Card up to three days before entry into Singapore.

    Europe

    You need a full 10 year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the minimum period needed.

     

  • In many destinations, you can arrange adventure activities, either through Llama Travel or through Llama Travel. If you are interested in taking any of these, please make sure you are covered by your travel insurance.

  • Some countries have strict regulations regarding the entry and exit of children under 18 when not travelling with both parents, or if the child has nationality of the country you are visiting. If you are travelling with children who are not entering or leaving the country with both parents, or if the child has nationality of the country you are visiting, please contact the consulate of the country you are visiting to check requirements.

    Countries in Africa have particularly strict requirements regarding children travelling, and in both South Africa and Namibia, children need to carry an unabridged birth certificate. Additionally, in Namibia, adults travelling with children where they are not the biological or legal guardians of those children, should be in possession of an affidavit statement from the child’s parents giving consent for their travel.

    Such requirements do change from time to time, and although we try to keep abreast of such changes and update this information, if you are travelling with children, we suggest you check current requirements carefully.

  • You will receive tickets approximately 10 days before departure, along with information on accommodation, transfers and excursions. Our agents in destination will give you final details for hotel and excursions when you arrive. Please check airline tickets carefully in case timings have changed after we issued your confirmation.

  • Cards are widely accepted in most hotel and restaurants, and cash machines are common in most destinations. However, when travelling to remote areas, it is advisable to take cash, as it is difficult to withdraw or change money. Travellers cheques are no longer widely used, so it may be inconvenient to take these.

    It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals from your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary, however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.

    More information on the situation regarding money, budgeting and tipping in specific countries is in the country information below.

  • Adequate travel insurance is essential. We do not sell or recommend any specific policy, but good medical insurance should cover medical evacuation and repatriation. If you are going to be taking part in any activity, please ensure your policy covers you for this, especially if this involves high-altitude trekking, such as the Inca Trail.

When Your Are Travelling

  • Most people who travel to the countries where Llama Travel operates experience no problems on holiday. However, as is the case anywhere in the world, crime can be a problem, especially in large cities. Tourists can appear attractive targets to criminals. To minimise the risk, use common sense. Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive looking jewellery or cameras. Avoid empty streets, especially on your own. Take a taxi after dark. By taking sensible precautions, you should have a trouble-free holiday.

    Each country has its own standards for health and safety, but these are often not as good as in the UK. We take this into account when selecting hotels and request that they comply with all local regulations, but cannot guarantee that these are equivalent to British standards. Please take reasonable precautions to protect yourselves whilst on holiday, e.g. by locating fire exit routes.

    Please also check the Foreign Office travel advice for the countries you are visiting at www.fco.gov.uk.

  • Attitudes towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) travellers around the world can be very different from those in the UK.

    In Latin America and Europe, attitudes can sometimes be more conservative than in the UK, but there are not usually problems.

    In some African countries, including Morocco, Zimbabwe and Kenya, same sex relationships are illegal and conservative attitudes prevail. However, hotels and lodges do not discriminate and same sex couples can share rooms. In much of Africa and the Middle East, public displays of affection may attract negative attention, especially with LGBT couples, although the majority of people are friendly to visitors, irrespective of gender and sexual orientation. In South Africa, the authorities have introduced legislation which bans any discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

    In most of Asia, attitudes to same sex relationships can be conservative, but there are not usually any problems. In Sri Lanka, same sex relationships are illegal, but hotels do not discriminate and same sex couples can share rooms.

    The UK Foreign Office has information LGBT travel on their travel advice for individual countries, found at www.fco.gov.uk.

  • For all wildlife excursions, please always follow the instructions of your guide, both for the animals’ welfare and for your safety. Staff are experienced at dealing with wildlife, but by their nature, excursions involving exposure to wild animals will always carry some risk.

    If you take a safari in Africa, you will be with an experienced guide at all times, who is usually unarmed. All of the game drives run according to schedule, although unexpected delays can occur, which the guide will deal with as quickly and safely as possible. Being in the wilderness means that the environment is unpredictable, so the unexpected can happen. For any excursions taken on foot, there will be a safety briefing to inform you of the possible dangers.

Health & Fitness

  • Please consult your GP or a travel clinic about health and vaccination requirements. Advice for travellers is available at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk.

    When travelling, stomach illnesses are not uncommon due to changes in diet. We suggest you only drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. If you are unsure if salads and fruit have been washed in purified water, it is best to avoid them.

    If you suffer from a disability or condition and are worried whether this will affect the enjoyment of a holiday, please call us. We will do our best to help. We recommend that you bring any medicines you require from the UK.

    If you have any health problems on holiday, please speak to our local agents or hotel staff. They will arrange for a doctor or hospital if necessary. If you do experience any problems, please seek appropriate medical attention.

    Outside of major cities, medical facilities can be basic, meaning a lengthy transfer if hospital attention is required.

    Latin America

    Yellow fever and / or malaria precautions are recommended for visiting the jungle, Iguazu Falls and some parts of Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Brazil, Peru and Ecuador. Yellow Fever certificates are sometimes required if you have recently visited a country with an infected area. Children under 6 require proof of vaccination against polio to enter Brazil. Some GPs do not recommend yellow fever vaccinations for travellers over 60 years old. If you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant, please speak to your GP about zika. Please seek medical advice before you travel.

    Parts of South America are at high altitude. Most visitors do not suffer major problems. However, shortness of breath is common and we advise you to take things calmly during your first day at altitude. If you suffer from a heart or lung condition, or think that you may suffer due to the altitude, please consult your GP.

    Africa

    Malaria precautions are highly recommended when visiting the Kruger National Park in South Africa, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, the north of Namibia, including Etosha, Botswana and Kenya. Yellow Fever vaccination is highly recommended for Kenya. Travellers entering many African countries, including South Africa and Kenya Africa, coming from a yellow fever zone must have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Some GPs do not recommend yellow fever vaccinations for travellers over 60 years old.

    Asia

    Malaria precautions are not usually advised when visiting the areas that Llama Travel offers in India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam or Cambodia, although malaria is present in some other parts of these countries. If you have visited a country with yellow fever recently, you will usually require a valid yellow fever certificate to enter. Please be aware that Shimla in the Himalayas in India is at a moderately high altitude, so we recommend you take things calmly during your first day at altitude. If you suffer from a heart of lung condition, or think you may suffer due to the altitude, please consult your GP.

  • For most of our holidays, age is not a concern. However, a reasonable level of fitness is required, as most holidays require some walking, sometimes on uneven ground. Even relatively mild activities can be strenuous at altitude. High altitude trekking is more strenuous than an equivalent length walk at low altitude.

Getting There

  • Depending on the route and the airline, if you would like to break your journey to or from your final destination, and add a stopover to your holiday, this may be possible. Please ask us for information.

  • If you are interested in arranging your own international flights, this is sometimes possible. Please ask us for details of this and any discount we can arrange for removing international flights. Please do not book your flights until we have reconfirmed all services with our suppliers and you have checked the confirmation invoice.

  • All people transiting in a third country need to make sure they comply with any immigration requirements for that country.

    This is especially the case when in transit in the US when flying to Latin America. In this case, you must comply with US immigration requirements. It is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with these requirements before you travel. Failure to do so may result in you being denied boarding on your flight to the US and, at best, a last-minute and probably expensive re-routing avoiding the US. It is important, therefore, that you follow these procedures carefully.

    If your flight to Latin America involves a stop in the US, you will be subject to US immigration control upon entry to the US. If you qualify for the US Visa Waiver Program, you are able to avoid the need to apply for a visa, but still need to enter your details online on the US State Department website. If you do not qualify for the US Visa Waiver Program, you must apply in person at a US embassy for a US visa. Please make sure that you do this in good time.

    If you are a UK citizen and have a UK passport, you may qualify for visa-free travel. You will require a machine readable passport to qualify for the ESTA Visa Waiver Program (so you do not require a visa to enter the US). A machine readable passport has the holder's personal details (name, date of birth, nationality and passport number) contained in two lines of text at the bottom of the photo page. This appears as two lines of letters, numbers and chevrons (">>>>>") printed across the long edge of the photo page. It must be also include an integrated circuit chip capable of storing the biographic information from the data page, a digitized photograph and other biometric information.

    Please note, holders of passports indicating that the bearer is a British Subject, a British Dependent Territories Citizen, British Overseas Citizen, British National (Overseas) Citizen or British Protected Person do not qualify for travel without a visa. A passport which states that the holder has Right of Abode or indefinite leave to remain in the UK does not quality for visa-free travel.

    If you have visited certain restricted countries, including Cuba, you may not qualify for visa-free travel.

    If you have been arrested, even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction, or if you have a criminal record, you will need a visa.

    If you have any doubts about whether you qualify for the Visa Waiver Program, please check with the US embassy. Full details can be found on the US embassy’s UK website at: http://london.usembassy.gov/vwp3.html

    Many European, Australian and New Zealand passport holders also qualify for the Visa Waiver Program as long as the passport is machine readable and complies with the relevant criteria. Please see the US embassy website for a list of countries which qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. It is important that you check the website of the US Embassy in the country of passport nationality for any further changes before you travel.

    Details of the ESTA Visa Waiver Program can be found on the US State Department website at

    https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.

    In addition to the Visa Waiver Programme, the US Transportation Security Authority requires anybody flying through the United Sates to supply specific passenger information prior to their international flight.

  • Air fares vary from date to date and between airlines. Our holidays are scheduled to use the most advantageous air fare. You can choose which airline you prefer, we will let you know if a supplement is payable. Levels of onboard service and facilities, such as entertainment, vary by airline and route. Please ask us for details. Flights are sometimes operated by another airline in the appropriate airline alliance.

  • Many airlines offer the option of flying from regional airports in the UK, avoiding the need to make your own way to London. Due to the timing of flights, in some cases this may involve an overnight stop in London or another intermediate airport. There is usually a supplement for regional departures. Please note that most of our flights depart from London.

  • You can upgrade to business class or premium economy on most airlines. Call us for prices for the route and airline you are interested in.

    Premium Economy

    Some airlines offer Premium Economy cabins, which provide more comfortable seats which recline further and have more legroom. There are better meals and a bar service.

    Other airlines offer standard economy class seats with extra legroom for an additional cost.

    Business Class

    Many airlines have long-haul business class cabins with seats that convert into full flat beds and often have a privacy screen.

    Business Class within Europe is often similar to economy class seating, but with better meals, and middle seats are often left empty.

  • Most scheduled airlines have a baggage allowance of 23kg per passenger for international flights, but internal flight allowances can be less. Exact limits can be found on airline webpages. Please bear this in mind when packing, as carrying excess baggage will normally incur an expensive additional cost payable at check in. Additionally, certain excursions have a limited baggage allowance. Where this is the case, we will advise you in advance. Llama Travel accepts no responsibility for the delay, loss or damage of luggage.

    There may be additional luggage restrictions for specific countries. In this case, details of this will be in the country information below.

  • Many airlines now charge a fee to select your seat prior to checking in for your flight, even when travelling in premium economy or business class. Alternatively, you may choose your preferred seat free of charge when online check-in opens 24 hours prior to departure or at the airport. Please ask us about the options available at time of booking.

    We all want a comfortable journey, particularly on long haul flights. If you would like a seat with some extra leg room or a larger recline please let us know. Airlines have introduced a range of “economy comfort” seats that may be purchased in advance. In some cases, these seats may only be purchased online directly with the airline once Llama Travel has issued your ticket approximately 30 days prior to departure.

    For internal flights, and for connecting flights in Europe, it is usually only possible to select seats when you check-in online or at the airport.

                        

    It may not be possible to always use online check-in systems, especially when using a codeshare flight. On occasion, your preferred seat may be changed by the airline for operational reasons such as a change of aircraft or to facilitate a disabled passenger on the day you fly and as such, Llama Travel cannot guarantee specific seats.

Travelling in Morocco

  • The best time to visit Morocco is late September to November. The weather is warm and pleasant during these months. Winters can be cold and the summer heat can be scorching.

    Coastal regions have a Mediterranean climate are warm throughout the year with mild winters and temperatures in the 30°Cs in the summer.

    Due to the variations in weather, we recommend taking a variety of clothing, suitable for warm and cooler weather. Rain is possible throughout the year, so waterproofs are also recommended.

    Electricity in Morocco is 220V, and plugs are of the round two-pin type.

    We recommend you carry a copy of your passport with you at all times.

    Please bring any medication you may require from the UK.

  • The currency in Morocco is the Moroccan dirham (approximate exchange rate £1 = 12 MAD). Credit and debit cards can be used in hotels, restaurants and larger shops, and can also be used to withdraw money from cash machines which are abundant. Transactions in the souks will be expected in cash.

    All hotels include breakfast, and other meals are included on some tours and excursions. However, generally, you will need to arrange your own lunches and dinners. We recommend budgeting approximately £10-15 for a good meal. Most establishments are ‘dry’, however, some restaurants will sell alcohol. A local beer costs approximately £2 and a bottle of wine is £6. Soft drinks are inexpensive and most hotels will provide a complimentary bottle of water each day.

    Throughout Morocco there are fantastic opportunities to shop for souvenirs and we advise setting aside some of your budget for this purpose.

    If you receive good service, you may want to leave a tip. This is completely at your discretion. It is standard to tip 5-10% for table service in Moroccan restaurants and to tip your guide £2-3 and driver £1-2 per day.

  • Moroccan cuisine is a mixture of the country’s diverse heritage with influences from Andalusian Spain, Arabia and France that create dishes with subtle spices and intriguing flavour combinations.

    Wherever you go in Morocco you will see the clay cooking pot with a conical lid known as a tagine that is used to prepare a myriad of dishes but typically consists of combination of meat, vegetables, spices and a broth that bubbles away to make a fragrant, tender meal. The kefte tagine is particularly iconic and consists of a ground beef or lamb stew interspersed with poached eggs. Harirais a soup rick with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas and lamb that is normally accompanied by the stick sweet pretzl known as chebakkiya. Mechouiis lamb roasted in deep pits with araar wood. Bastillais a unique savoury pie that features layered sheets of thin dough filled with a mixture of meat, vegetables, spices and egg. Coucous is found in abundance as is khobz, a round crusty flatbread which is traditionally used as the method of eating most dishes by hand.

    The Moroccan national drink is mint tea and has a steeped history in the country and is made with a base layer of green tea, many mint leaves and sugar.

    The typical cost of a good-sized lunch is approximately £10-15 per person.