Moroccan Culture and Kasbahs

Trip style

Discovery Adventures: If you like Discovery Channel's award-winning programming than you'll love our new trip style, Discovery Adventures. In partnership with Discovery Channel, this trip style takes you to famous museums and historic sites while partaking in authentic interactive exploration. This is the key to an unforgettable Discovery Adventures experience. Explore local villages and discover extraordinary ways of life long forgotten by the modern world. Your tour guides are handpicked for their extensive knowledge and unparalleed expertise in their respective fields, with a dedication to enhancing your overall adventure. More than a trip, it's an adventure of a lifetime. Discovery Adventures invites you to pack your curiosity and discover the world.

Service level

Comfort: Feed your curiosity for culture and authentic experience while still maintaining the comforts you are used to at home. Relax, your arrival transfer is always included. Expect air conditioned rooms, complete with en suite bathrooms, television, phone services, cafe/bar and internet. 24 hr electricity and hot water are the norm and continental breakfast is always included. For the most part, you will be travelling around in air-conditioned fixed route tourist buses, private touring vehicles or planes.

Physical grading

2: Light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels.

Please note: Many Discovery Adventures trips include more than one 'Physical Grading' element that may increase the overall rating of a trip to a higher level. You can choose not to participate in these activities. For specific trip information, refer to the Trip Details document, or contact our sales department.

Itinerary

Day 1 Casablanca

Arrive in Casablanca at any time and transfer to the hotel. Please make sure to arrive at the hotel by 6pm, in time for a group welcome meeting. Please check at the hotel notice board for more information about where to meet the group leader for this meeting.

Afterwards, we may choose to head out for an optional group dinner to get to know our traveling companions a little more and enjoy one of Casablanca's many restaurants.

Day 2 Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes (B)

Explore the wide boulevards and art deco architecture of Casablanca on a guided walk of the city. Visit the world's third largest mosque before continuing our explorations in Morocco's capital city, Rabat.

Find out why the Hassan Tower never became the tallest in the world and visit the beautiful mausoleum, which is the final resting place of the current king's father and grandfather. Head uphill to enjoy the quaint architecture and hilltop views of Kasbah des Oudaias before heading to Meknes, our base for this evening.

Approx travel times: Casablanca to Rabat, 1 hr
Rabat to Meknes, 2 hrs

Day 3 Meknes, Volubilis, Fez (B)

Meknes' grand buildings and huge medina reflect the importance it once held as capital of the sultanate. We walk through the impressive Bab Mansour, which was once the main entrance to the imperial city, enjoying the atmospheric royal granaries, and of course hear the legends and view the final resting place of the man who created Meknes, Moulay Ismail.

Volubilis is the best example of an ancient Roman city in Morocco. Our knowledgeable site guide will bring the fascinating history and stories of this ancient place to life. Don't miss the stunning, original mosaics and the impressive Triumphal Arch. Afterwards, we drive to Fez for the night.

Approx travel times: Meknes to Volubilis, 1 hr
Volubilis to Fez, 45 minutes

Day 4 Fez (B,D)

Fez is the Morocco most people dream about, with an old town offering a vibrant mix of stunning architecture and thriving market place. As well as visiting the city's must-see sites, such as the much photographed tanneries, we take the time to head down the small alleyways to see craftsmen using the same skills since ancient times. Leatherwork, silver and brass making; it is all on display, as well as local services such as bread baking and knife sharpening. Medersa Bou Inania, a twelfth century religious school, is one of the most magnificently decorated buildings in the old city.

Of course, when in Morocco, it is also all about the food. Fez is known for its extravaganzas of mezas (small plates of food) common among Fassis tradition. Mezas may include such delights as: choukchouka salad, zaalouk salad, carrots with cumin seed, raisin and orange salad, cold radish, orange, and Fennel Salad. Don't miss trying a few this evening, as we head out on the town to enjoy a dinner of Moroccan specialties and a traditional folklore show.

Day 5 Fez, Marrakech (B)

Today is a travel day as we make the full-day transfer over the Middle Atlas Mountains, with its cedar forests and ski resorts, descending to the verdant and fertile plains of Beni Mellal and on to Marrakech.

Approx travel time: Fez to Marrakech, 8 hrs

Day 6 Marrakech, Tamatert (B,L)

Today we take a full day excursion to the High Atlas Mountains. We drive to the village of Tamatert and embark on an easy walk for a couple of hours through the beautiful countryside filled with traditional Berber villages, farmland and fruit orchards. After taking in all those breathtaking views, we'll be hungry and ready to fully enjoy our rustic lunch of local produce in a local mountain gite. In the afternoon, we make our way back to Marrakech where we spend this evening.

Approx travel time: Marrakesh to the High Atlas return, 4 hrs

Day 7 Marrakech, Ouarzazate, Aït Benhaddou (B,D)

We depart early this morning, crossing over the Tizi n’Tichka pass on winding mountain roads offering superb views over the highest peaks of Morocco. We descend on the southern side of the massif into the stunning pre-desert landscape surrounding Ouarzazate. A former garrison town and French administration post, the town was also a stronghold of the Glaoui family. Learn all about their dynasty on a guided visit to their former home, Kasbah Taourirt.

Continue to the village of Aït Benhaddou and its famous kasbah. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favorite location of film producers, this is one of the best preserved kasbahs in the country. Get lost in the maze of red brick alleyways and watch the sunset from its ramparts.

Approx travel times: Marrakech to Ouarzazate, 4 hrs
Ouarzazate to Ait Benhaddou, 30 minutes

Day 8 Aït Benhaddou, Telouet, Marrakech (B)

Returning across the Atlas Mountains, we visit another of the former rulers of South Morocco, the Glaoui Family's strongholds, their kasbah at Telouet. Enjoy a cup of mint tea at a local village before returning to Marrakech.

On our return why not visit the bustling souks and in the evening, head to the famous Djemaa el Fna square with its acrobats, fortune tellers, snake charmers and much more. As well, this evening, we might like to visit one of Marrakesh's classy restaurants located in restored mansions or riads for a stylish meal to round off our adventure.

Approx travel time: Ait Benhaddou to Marrakech, 5 hrs

Day 9 Marrakech (B,D)

This morning, enjoy a guided walking tour of the city. We wander the rambling rooms and shady courtyards of the Bahia Palace, the former home of a royal vizar. Admire the tombs of the princes at the Saadian Tombs and find out the history behind the majestic Koutoubia Minaret, which towers over Marrakech.

The afternoon is free for some last minute shopping, or we might like to visit the Terre des Jeunes, a training and vocational community project for the young people of Marrakech and the surrounding area.

In the evening, it is time to say goodbye, as we take dinner at one of the food stands in the famous Djemaa el Fna square - a great place to celebrate a wonderful journey.

Day 10 Depart Marrakech (B)

We are free to depart at any time today. Please note that check-out time from the hotel is normally mid-morning, but luggage storage facilities are available.

Dossier Disclaimer

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at the time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travelers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your trip details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Itinerary Disclaimer

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The trip details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Accommodation

Comfort hotels (9 nts)

My Own Room

Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops on tour.

Single Travelers

We believe single travelers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. If you prefer to have your own room, The My Own Room option is available on most tours, but some exceptions can apply). Our Independent trips are designed differently and single travelers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Transport

Van, Mini-bus, Walking

About our Transportation

Our transport throughout this tour is a comfortable air conditioned mini van.

Group Size Notes

Max 15, Avg 10

Local Flights

There are no local flights on this tour.

Meals Included

9 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinners

Meals

Travelling with Discovery Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful foods and flavors that are available in the world. Some meals are included in the trip price in more remote regions or as a highlight where we can share a local specialty or cultural experience. In many places where there is a choice of eating options, we like to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each others company, but there is no obligation to do this. Your group leader will be able to suggest favorite restaurants during your trip. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.

Group Leader Description

All Discovery Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our expert group tour leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. Group leaders are experts in their region with a broad, general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local expert guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.

Your Fellow Travelers

As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of traveling in a group. Your fellow travelers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group. Patience with your fellow travelers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.

Joining Hotel

Hotel Basma
35, Av. Moulay Hassan I
Casablanca
Phone: +212 522 22 33 23
Fax: +212 522 26 89 36

Joining Instructions

An arrival transfer is included, please look for the Discovery Adventures representative, who will be holding a Discovery Adventures sign. They will meet you inside your arrival gate, prior to the visa processing area. They will be there to assist you with the visa process. Start looking for them once you leave the plane, and enter the terminal. Your name will not be on the Discovery Adventures sign, so please ask the representative who they are there to meet.

If the Discovery Adventures representative is not there at first, please wait up to 30 minutes, and then proceed to take a taxi, or call our local staff at +212 524 43 34 40 or +212 661 200 432, who will assist you in getting to the start hotel.

Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned, so you may arrive at any time. Similarly the last day is a departure day in which no activities are planned.

Your Tour Leader will contact you at the hotel on Day 1 and make sure you are settled comfortably. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning. Your Leader will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip.

Arrival Complications

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

Finishing Point Hotel

Hotel Meryem
154, Rue Mohamed Beqal
Marrakech
Phone: +212524 43 70 62-65
Fax: +212 524 43 70 66

What to Take

You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labeled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, or sports bag, maximum 15kg, plus a daypack. Luggage limits on airlines are strictly enforced and space on vehicles is limited. Porters are not often available, so be prepared to carry your own bags. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning game drives. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.

Checklist

•Passport (with photocopies)
•Travel insurance (with photocopies)
•Airline tickets (with photocopies)
•USD cash and traveler's cheques
•Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
•Discovery Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information and trip details
•Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
•Fleece top
•Windproof/waterproof jacket
•Small towel and swimwear
•4 shirts/t-shirts
•Sun hat
•hand sanitizers/ antibacterial wipes
•1 pair of shorts
•2 pairs of long trousers
•1 pair hiking pants/track pants
•Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
•Sport sandals
•Sunblock
•Sunglasses
•Toiletries (biodegradable)
•Watch or alarm clock
•Water bottle
•Pocketknife
•Flashlight (with extra batteries and bulbs)
•Money belt
•First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)

Optional Items:
Camera and film, reading/writing material, binoculars, cover for backpacks

Emergency Contact

Should you need to contact Gap Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local operator - Gap Adventures/Dynamic Tour. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

Gap Adventures/Dynamic Tour (Morocco)
Open 6 days a week, Monday to Saturday 8:30am to 6:30pm (closed from 12:30 to 2:30pm) local time (GMT).
Tel: Int. Dialing Code +212 524 43 34 40 (during office hours)

Dynamic Tour Emergency Cell Phone: +212 661 200 432 (after office hours).

Gap Adventures Local Office
Emergency Cell Phone: +44 7817 262559

If you are unable for any reason to contact Dynamic Tour or our local offices, we have a toll-free line for North America, which will connect you directly with our Toronto office. In the event that you cannot get through, you can reach a member of our Operations department at the mobile number below.

Toll-free, North America only: 1 800 465 5600.
Calls from UK: 0844 410 1030
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Outside North America, Australia and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
Mobile: + 1 647 504 6467

Laundry

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

Visas

All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION.

Most nationalities receive a free visa, valid for a period of 90 days on arrival in Morocco. There are exceptions to this (including Israeli and South African passport holders) and it is essential that you contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements for your nationality before departure.

Spending Money

Every traveler is different, therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travelers may drink more than others while some may like to purchase more souvenirs. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

Money Exchange

Debit cards are very useful for cash advances, but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept 4-digit PINs). Both Cirrus and Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. While ATMs are often available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Morocco. Check with your bank. Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies.

Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of USD or Euro cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

Avoid traveler's cheques as these are less and less readily cashed as clients use them very little.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

Emergency Fund

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

Tipping

Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your Tour Leader will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $1-$2 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your Discovery Adventures Tour Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $10-15 USD per person, per week can be used.

Optional Activities

Your local guide will recommend different optional activities, feel free to ask him for more information. Please note that prices are approximate and are quoted in Moroccan Dirham:

Casablanca
Hassan II Mosque (Sat to Thurs) 9, 10, 11 and 2pm – Dh120
Villa de Arts (Tues to Sat) – free
Jewish Museum (Mon to Fri) - Dh30
Meknes
Dar Jamai Museum (Wed to Mon) - Dh20
Medersa bou Inania - Dh10
Koubbat as- Sufara - Dh10
Heri es Souani - Dh10
Volubilis – Dh20
Local guide for a group per hour– Dh150

Meknes
Dar Jamai Museum (Wed to Mon) - Dh20
Medersa bou Inania - Dh10
Koubbat as- Sufara - Dh10
Heri es Souani - Dh10
Volubilis – Dh20
Local guide for a group per hour– Dh150

Fez
Medersa bou inania – Dh10
Medersa el Attarine - Dh10
Dar batha museum (Wed to Mon) - Dh10
Belghazi museum - Dh20

Marrakech
Traditional Hammam (steam bath) including massage – Dh 300
Moroccan 3 course dinner and folklore entertainment in a traditional restaurant overlooking the famous Djemma el Fna Square - Dh400
Ali Ben Youssef Medersa - Dh40
Koubba Ba’adiyn - Dh40
Museum of Marrakech - Dh40
El Badi Palace - Dh10
Saadian Tombs - Dh10
Bahia Palace - Dh10
Dar si Said - Dh10
Majorelle and Museum of Islamic Art - Dh30
Bicycle hire – Dh70–100 per day


All prices are per person(unless stated otherwise), and are subject to change as services are provided by third party operators.

Health

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes, as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. For travelers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. Discovery Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

Safety and Security

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while traveling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travelers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When traveling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our tour leaders to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).

Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please click here.

Trip Specific Safety

Like anywhere in the world, major cities have areas safer than others, use common sense, be aware of your surroundings and mind your personal belongings.

Detailed Trip Notes

REGIONAL INFORMATION

Climate
The winter months in Morocco are from October to March and are characterized by cold nights and pleasant days. Summer is from April to September and starts off with moderate temperatures until mid-June when temperatures get into the 90s (Fahrenheit), returning to more moderate heat in September. However, the inland climate is very dry and high temperatures very bearable. It rains generally only in short downpour bursts in the period from the beginning of November until March.

Local Currency
The official unit of currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham, MAD or MDH.

Electricity
Morocco uses 220V, 50Hz. and plugs are two prong rounded.

Language
Arabic (in Moroccan dialect) and Berber are the official languages of Morocco, but French is very widely spoken, as well as English also in tourist resorts.

Medical Form

Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travelers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage, as a minimum requirement. Travelers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travelers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders work hard to ensure that all our travelers are catered to equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.

Download the the medical questionnaire.

A Couple of Rules

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the law of the land, but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world, but it is not acceptable for our travelers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When traveling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been shown to your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

Local Dress

Shoulders should be covered and no short shorts/skirts when visiting religious monuments.

Keeping in Touch

If you need to be contacted while traveling, we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travelers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our emergency contact information in this document. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking staff.

Planeterra - The Gap Adventures Foundation

Planeterra is a non-profit organization with a long history of supporting sustainable community development through travel and voluntourism. By getting to know local people in the communities, Planeterra is able to help identify individual needs and act quickly to meet them. 

A range of over 30 projects worldwide, from providing water tanks to families in Kenya to a women's weaving co-operative in Peru, Planeterra offers travelers with a few hours, a few days, or a few dollars to spare, a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people and communities around the world. Discovery Adventures supports the work of Planeterra and includes community project visits in many of our tours.

Important Notes

Weather: Please note that as a desert country, Morocco can be be cold. Summers - April to September are VERY HOT through out Morocco.
Winter months November to March can be cool to freezing cold- especially in the Atlas mountains, with the possibility of snow. Please bring appropriate clothing for these months.

Drinking water: It is advisable to drink bottled water in Morocco.

RAMADAN 2010
August 11th - September 09th. Please note that Ramadan is a month of fasting observed by Muslims throughout the world, during which time the followers of Islam should not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. There may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules during Ramadan, but generally our tours still operate effectively during this period and food is available to non-muslims throughout the day.

Discovery Adventures are operated in conjunction with Gap Adventures, the world leader in adventure travel. An award winning company of over 600 employees and more than 15 operational offices worldwide, Gap Adventures focuses on cultural interaction, wildlife encounters, and active travel experiences in a responsible and sustainable manner.