Day 1: Welcome to Morocco

Arrival to Marrakech. Group transfers to the old medina. Check into our private boutique hotel: Riad Berbere Marrakech. A riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace featuring an inward-facing design centered around a private courtyard or garden with a fountain or small pool. Derived from the Arabic word for "garden," they offer a calm, luxurious, and intimate retreat from busy medinas, typically featuring intricate mosaic tiles (zellige), rooftop terraces, and personalized service. Welcome reception at the hotel 6:30pm followed by dinner at 7:30pm at the riad (note: we have a private booking of the full riad. All breakfasts will be here as well as some dinners. A small spa/hammam is available for personal treatments if you want to book during your stay in addition to our dedicated spa day.)

Day 2: Walking Tour of the Souks

Breakfast at the riad. Full day in the heart of the medina with local expert guide and friend Mohammed: visit the artisans, shop the souks, experience the beauty and history of key historic places like the Bahia Palace and Ben Youseff Madrasa, the photography museum, and lunch at my favorite, La Famille. Return to the hotel for a relaxing evening and dinner at the riad or a favorite local spot: L’Mida

Day 3: Cooking Class and Hammam

Breakfast at the riad. Cooking class with Amal Nonprofit - learn to cook tajines and couscous from a favorite women's empowerment initiative dedicated to providing a safe and loving space where strong, resilient women can rewrite their narratives and step into their power. Afterwards we will head to a beautiful Moroccan spa for a traditional lux-level hammam experience (not included). Return to the riad to freshen up followed by dinner at the riad.

Day 4: Designer Day

Breakfast at the riad. Morning visit to Majorelle Gardens and YSL Museum. Lunch TBD. After lunch we will head to visit a few favorite designer shops: Marrakshi Life apparel, Salam Hello rugs, and Chabi Chic pottery. After shopping we will head to El Fenn, a famous designer hotel and shop. Sunset cocktails and dinner on the rooftop of El Fenn (dinner and drinks not included). Return late to our riad for a good night’s rest after a full day.

Day 5: Agafay Desert and Kirsten’s Birthday

Breakfast at the riad. Today is Kirsten’s Birthday and a special day in the desert to celebrate! Enjoy a slow relaxing morning at the riad. Check out at 10am and visit the natural dye artisans for a workshop demonstartion, followed by lunch at a favorite local spot. After lunch we head to Inara Camp in the Agafay Desert for a night to remember in honor of Kirsten. Check into our private lodges with incredible desert and mountain views. Relax in the lounge areas or by a campfire before our sunset camel walk. Special dinner to celebrate Kirsten’s birthday with a traditional concert. Be amazed by the stars and beauty of this other worldly location.

Day 6: Marrakech to Ourika Valley

Wake up to a beautiful desert sunrise and slow breakfast. Check out and head to Kasbah Bab Ourika at the base of the Atlas Mountains for our final three nights. At the apex of the Ourika Valley, it looks down to the river, green fields and groves of olives, oranges and lemons, and up to the dazzling snowy Mountain peaks. The kasbah is one of the most eco-friendly buildings in Morocco. Constructed principally from rammed earth, the traditional Berber building technique, it blends easily with the rock and earth around it. The kasbah a responsible member of the surrounding villages, contributing to the well-being of the people and the area. This involves supporting local artisans, employing community members, and participating in initiatives that enhance the quality of life for those in the vicinity. The ethos is one of symbiosis, where the prosperity of the Kasbah is intertwined with the prosperity of the community. After a delicious welcome lunch, relax and enjoy the beautiful property and views. Take a swim in the heated pool, book a spa appointment, read in the lounge, relax with a cup of tea. Group dinner in a private dining room area.

Day 7: Berber Artisan Day

Breakfast at the Kasbah followed by a day exploring and meeting people from the local villages surrounding the kasbah. Visit a traditional Berber Monday Market and then we head to our weaving workshop and lunch with a local women’s artisan cooperative. Learn about carding and spinning and then practice weaving a mini textile to take home. Shop one of their traditional rugs to support them directly. This will be a very special day immersed in the beauty of the local Berber culture and natural surroundings. Return to the Kasbah for a relaxing evening and dinner together.

Day 8: Hiking in the Ourika Valley

Breakfast at the kasbah followed by a day of hiking in the gorgeous surrounding valley with a local guide. Visit a berber home for tea in a nearby village, hike through the forests adn gardens, and visit a salt flat. Enjoy a delicious picnic on our hike delivered by the kasbah’s resident donkey. Return to the kasbah to freshen up and enjoy a final afternoon at the kasbah - swim, read, relax, or book a spa appointment. Final group dinner, sharing about our time together in Morocco.

Day 9: Journey Home

Early breakfast at the kasbah and check out. Return home via a flight from Marrakesh or onward to your next destination. Take with you the wonderful memories of our special journey together celebrating dear Kirsten. May Moroccan continue to inspire you for years to come.