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Moroccan Desert experience for those in hurry!

16th May 2016 Print
Stay in the desert

Morocco is home to the mighty Sahara Desert but for those short on time it is not a viable option for a short break, taking four hours by road from Marrakech, over the Atlas Mountains, to a desert camp.

Recognising this, Fleewinter has created a special, new, five-day ‘Marrakech & Desert’ itinerary, that includes two nights in the Agafay Desert, which is only an hour from Marrakech.

The break commences with two nights in bustling Marrakech, with accommodation in Riad Adore, a traditional property located within the Medina (the ancient walled city), and just a short walk from the main square.

Spend the rest of the arrival day exploring the souks, picking up excellent quality Moroccan goods, hand-made by artisans (expect to haggle) including leather poufs (sold flat – stuff with old clothes when you get home), mirrors, hand lathed BBQ skewers, leather bags, brightly coloured Moroccan silks, silver tea pots and the famous pointed ‘babouche’ leather slippers.

The following day can be spent exploring further afield which is best done with the assistance of a local guide who will be happy to show you the many sites and places of interest including the Yves Saint Laurent inspired Majorelle Gardens and the Islamic School.

Next up is the relatively short drive (40k) to the Agafay Desert, for two days and nights of peace and tranquillity, with accommodation at the Scarabeo Camp, which is comprised of a dozen oriental-inspired tents (all with an en suite), are dotted amongst the landscape.

Decorated with uniquely sourced pieces and locally crafted artwork, the tents are lit by flickering lanterns. The camp affords stunning 360° views of the Agafay's barren terrain and beyond to the snow-capped Atlas Mountains.

Feasting on traditional Moroccan cuisine around a candlelit communal table is one of the pleasures of the desert camp. As evening envelops the camp in inky blackness, the dining tent is aglow on the hillside, inviting guests with the sounds of conversation and clinking glasses.

Optional activities in the desert include a dune buggy tour, relaxing massage at the camp, camel or donkey ride, horse-riding, guided mountain treks, stargazing and yoga.

On day five, you will be collected by your private driver and taken back to Marrakech.

The holiday costs from £375 per person (B&B for the first two nights followed by two nights half board at the desert camp). Prices are based on two sharing and include private transfers throughout but not flights (bookable through Fleewinter).

For more information, visit fleewinter.com.

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Stay in the desert