Morocco Details

Welcome to your Morocco Guide for your CRAFT & CULTURE Private Tour for Kirsten’s Birthday!

Listed below are all the details you need to plan for this amazing tour. Please bookmark this page for future reference.

Itinerary

    • Day 1: Welcome to Morocco

      • Day 1: Welcome to Morocco

      • Afternoon arrival to Marrakech. Group transfers to the old medina. Check into our private boutique riad, Riad Berbere.

      • 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 followed by dinner at the 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: Medina Walking Tour

    • Exploring the Marrakech Medina with a walking tour led by our local partner guide, Mohammed.

      • Walk through the Souks, visit local artisans, learn about the impact and influence of women in Morocco, visit a few favorite shops that support women, and visit the beautiful Bahia Palace.

      • Lunch in the Medina at one of our favorite restaurants, La Famille.

      • In the afternoon, visit the Medersa Ben Yousef and view the Koutoubia Mosque from the outside. Learn about Argan oil and other natural products at a traditional pharmacy, go to the Photography Museum.

      • Free time to explore or return to the Riad to rest.

      • Dinner at the Riad.

  • Day 3: Cooking Class and Hammam

    • Cooking class and Desert Adventure:

      • Visit to a beloved nonprofit for a special day of learning to cook traditional Moroccan Food. This social enterprise supports courageous women on their journey towards empowerment and financial independence. We will enjoy lunch here.

      •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 and social businesses.

    • After shopping, head to El Fenn to visit their special shop and rooftop cafe. Enjoy a cocktail or mocktail at sunset before dinner.

    • Dine on the rooftop terrace at El Fenn.

    • Day 5: Agafay Desert

      • Breakfast at the riad and pack up for the next leg of our adventure. Today is Kirsten’s Birthday!

      • Check out and visit a favorite tea shop to celebrate the birthday girl.

      • After lunch we head to Inara Camp in the Agafay Desert for a night to remember.

      • One our way we will visit a weaving village that supports a special community of weavers.

      • 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 with a traditional concert.

      • Be amazed by the stars and beauty of this other worldly location.

    • Day 6: Ourika Valley

      • Wake up to a beautiful desert sunrise and slow breakfast.

      • Check out and head to the base of the Atlas Mountains for our final three nights. At the apex of the Ourika Valley, our kasbah hotel looks down to the river, green fields and groves of olives, oranges and lemons, and up to the dazzling snowy Mountain peaks.

      • The kasbah a responsible member of the surrounding villages, contributing to the well-being of the Amazigh people and the area.

      • After a delicious welcome lunch, relax and enjoy the beautiful property and views. Take a swim in the 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: Artisan Day

      • Breakfast at the Kasbah followed by a day exploring and meeting people from the local villages surrounding the kasbah.

      • Visit a traditional Amazigh Monday Market in the valley.

      • 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 culture and natural surroundings.

      • Return to the Kasbah for a relaxing evening and dinner together.

    • Day 8: Hiking and Picnic

      • Breakfast at the kasbah followed by a day of hiking in the gorgeous surrounding valley with a local guide.

      • Visit a Amazigh home for tea in a nearby village, hike through the forests and 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 amazing Morocco.

    • Day 9: Journey Home

      • Early breakfast at the kasbah and check out. Relax at the hotel until your departure.

      • Return home via a flight from Marrakesh or onward to your next destination.

      • Take with you the wonderful memories of our special journey together. May Moroccan continue to inspire you for years to come.

Travel Details

  • Booking Flights: We suggest booking flights 3–6 months before the tour. Please wait to buy your ticket until ARTIST & NOMAD confirms that registration is closed and the guest minimum is met.

    Arrival Airport & Time:

    • Airport: Marrakech

    • Customs + Transportation: It takes about 2 hours to get through customs and transport to the Riad . Plan to arrive at Riad Berbere between 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm. We will arrange your transfer from the airport to the Riad based on your flight itinerary.

    • Riad: Check-in is at 3:00 pm. If your flight arrives early, you can still head to the Riad, but your room may not be ready till 3:00 pm.

    Departure Airport & Time:

    • Airport: Your return flight should also be from Marrakesh unless you plan to tour more of Morocco on your own.

    • Your return flight should also be from Marrakesh. We suggest flights after noon so you can have a good meal before your long journey.

    • You will depart your accommodation after breakfast at least 4 hours before your scheduled flight home. You will need to check out of the hotel by 11am no matter your return flight time. You can still stay on the property and they will hold your luggage.

    • At Customs, you will need to state you are staying at:

      • Riad Berbere

      • 23 DERB SIDI AHMED
        BEN NASSER KAAT BENAHID,
        MARRAKECH 40000

        CONTACT@RIADBERBERE.COM

        +212 (6) 65 40 24 97

        +212 8 08 52 78 94

    • Exchange some Cash at the airport in baggage claim. You can use an ATM machine or money exchange. The rate is not great. Alternatively, we will pass a money exchange in the medina on our walking tour. You can exchange cash for dirhams. There are very limited ATMS in Morocco outside the airport. You can use your cc for many purchases, but smaller artisans prefer cash, so we recommend exchanging $200-500USD for small personal purchases as well as tips.

    • Meet your driver outside the airport after you exit. Look for a sign that says: Riad Berbere

    • Kirsten will be waiting to greet you at the Riad.

  • We will coordinate all your transportation in Morocco, including airport transfers. All transportation is included in your tour costs. We will cover the tips for transportation as well.

  • We will keep you busy the first few days to help combat jet lag.

    • Eat healthy 24 hours before flying. 

    • Eat healthy during flights.

    • Bring compression socks to help with circulation and swelling.

    • Bring a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated before, during, and after flight.

    • Bring ear plugs and eye mask for the flight and sleeping.

    • Bring melatonin or other sleep aids.

  • Photographs: If you’re welcomed by artisans or local hosts, feel free to take photos. There will be times when it is not appropriate to be taking photos, and we will let you know. 

    • We will create a shared album for a daily airdrop of photos for group shots + add your photos to share.

    • We ask that you restrain from taking images that don’t honor the local culture or people. Also, be sensitive to taking photos of people or children - ask permission if someone wants their photos taken before you take it. 

    Social Media: Share what inspires you on social media. Tag ARTIST & NOMAD and our local partners as a way to honor them and inspire others to explore social impact travel.

  • The overall philosophy is to not plug in unless you really need to. We want you to be fully present for your Moroccan adventure! 

    Phone Plan: Check with your mobile phone plan to verify what you need for this trip. Please plan being able to receive messages via WhatsApp, as that is how we will communicate as a group throughout the trip.

    WiFi: Is available at our hotels, but it’s not always reliable. You’ll usually get the best connection in your room, mostly in the mornings or evenings, which works well with the time zone differences.

    WhatsApp: We will use WhatsApp for our group messages. It is also great for communicating with your loved ones at home during your trip.

  • TIPS: Please plan to give $10/night/ person for each accommodation ($80 total for all 8 nights) as well as $40 for our tour guides and drivers - a total of $120 a person for tips. Please give your tour guide this cash on the first night and she will distribute the tip at check out from each location on behalf of the group.

    If you ask for any special services, please be sure to give the person that helps you an extra tip (such as the hammam or personal requests at the accommodations).

    All meal tips are already included in your tour.

Travel Documents + Health Information

  • Please upload a photo of your passport.

    • Must have 3 blank pages and not expire 6 months before the return date of your trip.

    • Bring a copy of your passport with you.

  • Please upload a copy of your flight itinerary in PDF or JPG form here.

  • Please upload a copy of your travel insurance policy in PDF or JPG form here.

    • Select a plan level from a company of your choosing that brings you the most peace of mind. For the most complete protection—such as “Cancel For Any Reason” or coverage for pre-existing medical conditions—be sure to purchase within 21 days of your ARTIST & NOMAD deposit, if you want it to include your A&N tour fees.

    • Squaremouth(A&N has no affiliation) has a variety of travel insurance options to compare.

  • There is currently no visa required for travel to Morocco for Americans or citizens from the UK or EU. Be sure to see what is required if you are coming from another country.

  • Pharmacy & Medical Clinics: if needed, medicines are also available in local pharmacies if needed. Your host will have a small first aid kit, but you should bring anything you think you need as well.

    Health Insurance Card: bring a copy of your regular health insurance card .

    Yellow Health Card or Shot record: Be sure to bring this or your shot record as well as a digital photocopy on your phone of your vaccine if you have had it. It is helpful to have your record handy in case of emergency. 

    Vaccines: Please check the CDC website for updated health notices and vaccine recommendations, and visit your doctor or a travel nurse to discuss what is best for you.

    • You are responsible for ensuring you have the vaccinations or vaccination exemptions required for travel and entry into your destination.

    • Currently there are not vaccines required to enter Morocco.

  • Health Policy: Please note that smoking and drug use are not permitted.

    If alcohol is available on this tour, we kindly ask that you enjoy it mindfully and in moderation. Please note that smoking and drug use are not permitted.

    There is no alcohol allowed in many restaurants and most public places in Morocco due to cultural/religious laws.

    Alcohol is not included in your trip costs. You will need to pay directly for alcohol when it is available. A few of our meals may offer it, so just use your discretion. Please be sensitive to being guests in a foreign country (many locals do not drink) and avoid all excessive drinking.

Packing Details

  • Checked Luggage

    • Pack light—you’ll be carrying your own bag.

    • We suggest bringing one checked bag and an extra foldable duffle for souvenirs.

      • Check your airline’s baggage rules on your ticket.

    • Larger purchases can be shipped home through DHL, which is reliable.

    Carry-On Bag

    • Pack essentials + medications and at least two changes of clothes in case your luggage is delayed (this happened before on tours).

    • You may also bring a personal item (like a purse, backpack or camera bag), but check your airlines for their policies.

    Small Waist Pack or Crossbody Bag

    • Great for keeping your passport, tickets, and documents handy.

    • Usually doesn’t count toward your carry-on allowance if small.

    • Perfect for exploring markets and keeping things secure.

    • You will be given an A&N tote to use during your tour to carry all your market goodies.

  • Here’s a suggested packing list. We’ll go over details in our pre-trip meeting if you have further questions. Keep it light — you’ll re-wear clothes, and layers are key in Morocco. Days are cool-warm in January but nights (especially in the desert and mountains) can be chilly and even cold, so bring at least one jacket or wool sweater. Check the weather before packing.

    Clothing: Modest clothing is important. Avoid shorts, miniskirts, tank tops, see-through, tight, or low-cut clothes. No bare shoulders, flashy styles, torn clothes, or offensive t-shirts. Good options are dresses, tunics, pants/jeans with blouses or button-up shirts. Layers are good.

    • 4–6 casual outfits + 1–2 nicer outfits (you’ll repeat outfits)

    • Lightweight jacket + 1 sweater for cool evenings (a wool layer too)

    • Scarf for entering holy sites and for warmth.

    Undergarments + Socks:

    • Bring enough for the entire trip (pack an extra in carry-on) as the laundry services may not do your undergarments. You can wash on your own in the sink if needed. 

    • Socks: enough for trip and remember to bring a wooly pair for keeping warm at night.

    Shoes

    • Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes.

    • Sandals comfortable for walking.

    Swimwear

    • Swimsuit for the pool at our final stop (towels provided).

    • A swimsuit can also be worn at the Hammam if you prefer modesty.

    • Bring a small bag for carrying a wet swimsuit.

    Jewelry

    • Jewelry is fine, but leave valuables at home.

    Laundry

    • Available at some hotels (small fee, 24-hour turnaround).

    • Undergarments may not be included — bring enough or wash in the sink.

  • Toiletries: Liquids must be under 3.4 oz and fit in a clear quart size zip bag if you have them in your carry one bag. Remember to check other airport regulations if you have a connecting flight.  

    • Personal toiletries (keep it as simple as possible).

    • Pack sunscreen, bug spray and hand sanitizer.

    • Whenever possible, try to choose eco-friendly products.

    • Keep your essentials in your carry-on so they’re easy to reach.

    Hair Styling Tools:

    There may or may not be a hair dryer available at our accommodations. It depends on the location.

    • Pack Healthy Snacks such as nuts, bars, dried fruit, etc, that won’t spoil or melt.

    • You may want to pack extra snacks for the longer car rides as well. 

  • Personal Medications: Please bring your regular medications + a few days extra and keep them in your carry on bag.

    Car sickness medications: If you are prone to car sickness, you may want to bring some medications to help especially during a few long travel days. we have a few long travel days.

    Sleep aids: Consider melatonin or other sleep aids that may be helpful during your first few days.

    Travel Medications: Ask your doctor to provide a prescription in case you contract a parasite and need an antibiotic, as well as prescription medications for diarrhea. It’s better to be safe than sorry! 

  • Electronics: Phone, charger, earphones, and a portable charger. An iPad/Tablet may be helpful for the long flights.

    Plug Adapter(s): Morocco uses types C & E — both have two round pins; type E also has a hole for the grounding pin.

    Morocco’s power: is 220V / 50Hz

  • Credit / Debit Card: ATMs in Marrakech are limited, so having both cash and a card is important.

    • You can use your card at the airport, banks, or money exchange to get local cash.

    • Call your bank or credit card company before travel so your card doesn’t get blocked.

    • Bring a credit card for emergencies and personal purchases (some places take cards, others only cash).

    Cash:

    • Bring $300–500 in new, clean $20 bills. Ask your bank for unmarked bills.

    • Exchange them at the airport after baggage claim—we won’t have time to visit a bank.

    • Sun hat, sunglasses

    • Book, journal, pen.

    • Sleeping aids: We are staying in small historic houses and in historic medinas where noise does travel, (part of the experience). There are also prayer calls at regular times from local mosques throughout each day and evening. 

      • Ear Plugs

      • Eye Mask

      • Consider Melatonin or other sleep aids.

Contacts + Google Meet Link

  • Your A&N Host/Guide:

    • Mohamed of Morocco Desert Escapades (local guide and friend) • +212 6991 93197 (WhatsApp)

  • Marrakech: Riad Berber

    CONTACT@RIADBERBERE.COM
    +212 (6) 65 40 24 97 ,+212 8 08 52 78 94

    Ourika: Kasbah Bab Ourika, ‍ ‍bookings@kasbahbabourika.com

    Telefone Reservations: +212668749547
    Office :+212661274707 /

  • We will meet via Google Meet two months prior to the trip. This is a time to meet everyone and to answer any questions you have about the tour .

    You will also receive an email and calendar invite for this online meeting.

  • Deposit: $1000 USD paid with registration

    First Payment - PAID

    Second/ Final Payment due - Nov 1, 2026 - unless already paid in full. An invoice will be sent for any payments still due.

    Payment Terms: Our tours are intentionally small, and cancellations have a significant impact on our team and our local partners. Please review the Terms.

Morocco Information

  • These are just a few common phrases to practice as you prepare for your journey. Moroccan Arabic is different from other Arabic languages . Many also speak French. A few will speak English, but not everyone. 

    Hello – As-salaam Alaykum (literally this means peace be with you but is a common greeting)

    And unto you peace – Walaykum As-salaam (said in response to the above)

    Hi – salam

    Goodbye – beslama

    Thank you – shokran

    No thank you – la shokran

    You’re welcome – al ‘afw Insha-allah – God willing.

    Yes – iyah ?

    No – la

    How are you? – Labas?

    Please – afak

    Good – mezya

    No problem – meshi mushkil

    Excuse me (to a woman) – smahaliya

    Excuse me (to a man) – smehlia

    Safi – All clear.

    Baraka – Like safi, but a little clearer, also Stop! 

  • Food in Morocco is overall healthy and very delicious! You will learn to cook traditional morocco Tajine at the beginning of our tour. This will be the main thing you are offered throughout your tour. There is no pork in Morocco per religious customs. If you made any food preferences in your registration, those preferences will be shared with each accommodation and we will do our best to honor your request.

    Please avoid eating street food unless our guide says it is ok. Otherwise, the food we have planned in our itinerary will be safe. Most our morning and evening meals will be at our accommodations.

  • Here are some great lists for tips on Moroccan Culture. Please review as they will be most helpful to you to understand the culture and avoid offending our hosts. You will also feel more comfortable in Morocco if you are familiar with some of the customs.

  • There are so many great films based in Morocco or about North Africa. You will see places that remind you of many films shot in Morocco like Lawrence of Arabia, Hideous Kinky, Alexander, and Babel. The below links also include some great books and blogs to check out as well as many films. Have fun and invite your family or friends to join you for a few film nights before the trip!! 

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