10 DAY | Moroccan Explorer
MXMEMM-7
This tour visits: Morocco
Feel the magic of Morocco on Topdeck’s Moroccan Explorer trip, which starts
and ends in the cultural hub of Marrakech. Travel to Casablanca, Fes, the Atlas
Mountains and more on this memorable exploration of one of the most diverse
countries in Africa. Enjoy the services of a local Trip Leader and superb bucket
list inclusions, such as an overnight stay in the Sahara Desert and a guided tour
of the vibrant medina in Fes. This adventure never fails to impress!
The Bucket List
More Inclusions
Entrance fees to all sights in the itinerary
9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
Get lost in the Medina of Fes
8 nights twin share in 3* hotels, 1 night in a desert camp
Guided tours of Marrakech, Rabat & Fes
Arrival transfer from the airport to hotel
Overnight in the Sahara Desert in Berber tents
Transport
Rock the Kasbah in Rabat
Awesome English-speaking Trip Leader
Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis
Visit Hassan II mosque in Casablanca
Your Itinerary
Day 1 | Marrakech, Morocco
Transfer to your hotel, ditch the map, turn off your phone and get hopelessly lost in a maze of mosaics and souks in the Red City. Then,
get acquainted with the gang at tonight's welcome meeting.
Included today:
Airport transfer
Day 2 | Marrakech
Today is all about the city tour. See the Bahia Palace, visit the Saadian Tombs and then work your way past the snake charmers and sip
fresh orange juice in Djemma el-fna square.
Included today:
Marrakech half-day city tour
Meals:
Breakfast
Day 3 | Marrakech to Rabat via Casablanca
Today we visit the Hassan II Mosque - bearer of the world's largest minaret (210 metres), with a frickin' laser beam on top. After lunch,
head to the UNESCO World Heritage capital of Rabat.
Included today:
Hassan II mosque in Casablanca
Rabat city tour
Meals:
Breakfast
Day 4 | Rabat to Fes via Volubilis and Meknes
Live la dolce vita in Volubilis, or at least get a good idea of what it was like during Roman times at these well-preserved ruins. Think:
historic public buildings dating back a whopping 2,000 years ago. Then, walk through Meknes and go into pattern overdrive in Fes.
Included today:
Volubilis Roman ruins
Visit to Meknes
Meals:
Breakfast
Day 5 | Fes
Mausoleums, Mosques and (funky cold) medinas are in order today on a full-day whip around the city with a local guide. Lose yourself in
the 9000 narrow cobbled streets – and world’s largest car-free urban area – in Fes el-Bali, lined with spices, food stalls and tanneries. Or
hunt down a hammam for a (body) shine and polish.
Included today:
Day tour of Fes
Meals:
Breakfast
Lunch
Day 6 | Fes to Errachidia via Ifrane and Midelt
She’ll be comin’ over the (Atlas) mountains when she comes today. Adjust to the altitude in Alpine-fresh Ifrane, then carve back through
cedar forests to Midelt for lunch and head south to Errachidia.
Meals:
Breakfast
Day 7 | Errachidia to Merzouga Desert Camp
Merzouga looks as if it might be engulfed by the red dunes of the Sahara Desert at any moment. Pull up a pool lounge and savour the
view before setting off on camel (optional) to get Berber fever in a desert camp. Climb the dunes and feel your hair stand on end as the
sky burns away the last sunlight of the day and melts into a blanket of diamonds. Epic doesn’t even cut it.
Included today:
Overnight in Berber desert camp
Meals:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Optional activities:
Camel ride
Day 8 | Merzouga to Dades Gorge via Todra Gorge
Step into your own Roadrunner cartoon today in the rock climber's nirvana of Todra Gorge. With a 3D landscape of imposing orange
sandstone peaks, streams and the odd camel playing outside your window today, the trip to Dades Gorge will seem quicker than a
coyote.
Meals:
Breakfast
Dinner
Day 9 | Dades Gorge to Marrakech via Ait Ben Haddou
Aït Ben-Haddou is UNESCO World Heritage and 'Desert Hollywood' beauty combined on an old caravan route between Sudan and
Marrakech. The fortified city's imposing walls have got nothing on the switchbacks of Tizi n'Tichka Pass, though.
Meals:
Breakfast
Day 10 | Marrakech
Don’t cry into your couscous. The trip might be over after breakfast but your adventure doesn’t have to be.
Meals:
Breakfast
Accommodation
On your trip you will stay primarily in quality, two- and three-star hotels on a twin-share basis.
You will also get to experience a night in a Berber tent in the desert!
The 'More Inclusions' section on this document has a full breakdown of the accommodation used.
Optional Activities
On all trips we have arranged extra activities that we think will enhance your travel experience, but you have a choice as to whether or not
you will participate. These are not included in the cost of your trip. They are usually organised on a group participation basis and should be
taken into consideration when budgeting your spending money.
None of the Optional Activities on your trip are operated by Topdeck, nor do they form part of your contract with Topdeck for your trip.
Topdeck arranges the activity as an agent of the local supplier. Should you participate in any Optional Activities your contract will be with the
local supplier and their conditions will apply.
Please note: while we make every effort to keep these prices as accurate and up-to-date as possible, they are subject to change and in rare
circumstances the actual price may vary slightly to what is published here.
Merzouga
Camel Ride – no extra charge
Marrakech - Ourika Valley Half Day Trip
Eureka! We're off to Ourika! Ourika Valley, that is. Traversing this lush, fertile area calls for your comfiest walking shoes
and explorer's attitude. Our first stop? The village of Ourika, where we'll rub shoulders with local Berber people going
about their typical day. Forget skyscrapers and Snapchat - we'll be surrounded by rocky foothills and verdant green
terraces while observing the traditional way of life.
From here, we'll make tracks to the breathtaking waterfall of Setti Fadma, which cascades some 60-metres from the
hulking mountains to the river below. Marvel at the sheer beauty of the falls before we head back through the villages,
catching a glimpse of the locals hard at work in the sprawling fields. Office envy, anyone?
Note: If you choose to do this excursion on your arrival day, you need to arrive before 9am to do it. Alternatively, you
could arrive a day early or if you have a late flight on the final day, you could do it that afternoon. Regardless, you
MUST tell us before arriving in Marrakech that you wish to book this and on what date. We will then let the office in
Morocco know so they can make the arrangements. You will pay for this excursion locally!
Often we don't know how many people will be going so it's best to budget based on the cost of the number of people
travelling with you. Since it is paid locally, if more people decide to go, you will pay less than you have budgeted!
On the Bucket List (Included)
Berber village of Ourika
Setti Fadma waterfall
More Inclusions
Return transport from Marrakech
English-speaking Trip Leader
Approximate Costs (USD)*
1 person: $110
2 people: $75 per person
3 people: $70 per person
4 people: $60 per person
5+ people: $45 per person * Local price calculated in Moroccan Dirham.
Departure Time & Location: Please be ready to depart at 10am from the reception area of the Hotel Akabar.
Finish Time & Location: This trip finishes between 6-7pm at Hotel Akabar.
Meals
Your included meals are detailed in the 'More Inclusions' section of this document.
Breakfasts are included every day on most trips (except on the first morning). A typical breakfast may consist of cereals with milk or yoghurt,
bread, croissants, cold meats, cheese and a range of spreads, with fruit juice, tea or coffee to drink. It is rare to get a hot breakfast, though on
some occasions there may be some hot food available as well.
Included evening meals are in local restaurants or you place of accommodation and are either two or three courses. In most cases table
water is provided with the meals, and if you wish to purchase additional drinks you can do so at your own expense.
If you have any dietary requirements we will make every effort to cater to your specific needs as long as you advise your travel agent or
Topdeck Trip Consultant when you book. But please be aware that although we will do everything in our power to arrange it, we cannot
guarantee that every restaurant we use will be able to cater to all dietary needs. We also cannot cater for tastes or dislikes, as most of our
included evening meals feature a set menu. Topdeck Travel App
Our travel app has landed! With a range of awesome features including a Currency Converter, Budget Tracker, Check-In tool and Social
Timeline you can plan your trip like a pro. Think of it like your very own Topdeck Trip Leader, always on call with the latest info, weather,
maps and city guides to give you the trip of a lifetime, all in the palm of your hand.
Please note: The Topdeck Travel App should only be downloaded once you have booked onto your trip. You will not be able to log in unless
you have a Topdeck Booking Reference Number.
Get it for iPhone
Get it for Android
Other Information
Finances
Changing Money
Cash points/ATMs are widely available and are the safest and easiest way to access cash.
Most major credit cards are accepted throughout the region. We recommend that you bring yours along in case you see something special,
which you hadn't budgeted for.
Please note credit cards cannot be used to pay for Optional Activities.
It is advisable you notify your bank or credit card issuing company of your intention to travel as for security reasons, banks and credit card
companies sometimes block cards when withdrawals are unexpectedly made overseas.
British pounds, Euros and US dollars are easily exchanged in Morocco and are an alternative to using ATMs. US dollars cash can also be used
for some purchases. NOTE: You MAY NOT be able to exchange any other currencies.
Upon arrival it is advisable to have about 250 dirham cash. This will cover any expenditure on your Marrakech sightseeing day and give you
flexibility until you need to change more money where you can get a better exchange rate.
On your trip you will be given the opportunity to change money at either a bank or hotel.
Bear in mind for the end of your trip that changing Moroccan Dirham back into dollars or other major currencies can be complicated and the
exchange rate will certainly be unfavourable. So keep an eye on the amounts you take out so you're not left with a huge surplus at the end of
your trip. Spending Money
Based on past experience, we recommend at least 200 - 300 Dirham per day to cover your normal expenses including sightseeing, small
souvenir shopping and non-included meals. If you wish to purchase expensive souvenirs, you will need to budget for more, or use your credit
cards for these purchases.
Remember, this is a rough figure only and spending habits vary greatly between individuals according to their budget and habits!
Tipping
Although you may not be accustomed to tipping at home, tipping (known locally as 'baksheesh') is an important way of life in Morocco and is
something that is done by locals as well as tourists.
When travelling with Topdeck, tips are already included on anything that forms part of your itinerary, including bus/coach drivers, included
meals, hotel staff, local guides, etc. This includes your Topdeck Trip Leader. That means you do not have to tip for any of these included
services!
However, you will need to tip for services that are not included, so please take this into consideration when working out your budget. For
example, you will need to tip at non-included meals when you pay for the meal yourself, even if your Trip Leader has helped organise it, and
you will need to tip for anything you do on your free time. Your Trip Leader can advise you what an appropriate tip amount is. A general rule
when tipping is if the service warrants it, tip what you think is a fair amount, and if you do not think so, then do not tip or tip less than
normal. Also, do not get bullied into tipping and disregard any comments that you have not given enough.
Topdeck Top Tip: it is a really good idea to hide away somewhere a small amount of cash and/or extra card; this will really come in handy in
the unlikely event that you lose your wallet or any other kind of emergency.
Insurance
It is compulsory for all passengers to take out comprehensive travel insurance before the trip departs covering cancellation, medical
expenses including repatriation, loss or damage to baggage and personal belongings, money and personal liability.
World Nomads provide comprehensive travel insurance for people from over 140 countries. For more information go to
www.topdeck.travel/travel-insurance.
You must bring a copy of your travel insurance policy with you on the trip. Your Trip Leader will make a record of your travel insurance
details at the start of your trip, e.g. the name of the insurance company, the 24 hour emergency telephone number, and your policy number.
These will be sent to our operations team to ensure that if you lose your policy details, they can be easily retrieved.
Passports & Visa
Some countries may refuse you entry if there is not at least six months validity on your passport after your departure date from their country
so please ensure your passport complies before you leave home.
Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to enter Morocco. Currently most (but not all) nationals do not require a visa for a visit
of up to three months.
It is recommended that you contact your local Moroccan consulate to find out whether or not you need a visa.
If you do need a visa, remember that some visas can take up to six weeks to acquire, so don't leave it until the last minute. Also bear in mind
that the validity of the visa often runs from the date of issue rather than date of entry into the country.
Transport
During your trip you will be travelling between destinations in a minibus or 4WD vehicle, depending on where you are travelling to.
As there is a lot to see in a short space of time, there are a number of fairly long travelling days. Please note that due
to shorter days in the winter months we will not be able to visit the Todra Gorge (if your itinerary includes it) during this
time.
Health & Safety
We want to make sure you're having the time of your life while travelling with us. Therefore, if you suffer from any kind of medical condition
or allergies, we will need to know at the time of booking, or at least six weeks prior to the departure of your trip.
If you require regular medication, you must have a sufficient supply before your trip departs, as it may be difficult to obtain while travelling.
You must be able to administer your own medication, as Topdeck Road Crew will not be able to administer it, and there are no guarantees
that there will be anyone with first aid training on board.
Strict food and water hygiene is essential to avoid diarrhoea. Make sure food has been properly prepared, drink only boiled or bottled water
and keep in mind that ice will likely come from tap water. Also take precautions against insect bites and sunburn. During the hot summer
months it is advisable to carry bottled water in your day-pack at all times.
Vaccinations
We recommend that you ensure your tetanus, diphtheria, typhoid, polio and hepatitis vaccinations are up to date. Please consult a medical
practitioner for the relevant requirements prior to travelling.
Safety note
If you are arriving a few days before the start of your trip, please be advised not to accept offers from people to visit specialty shops or to
take guided tours. These people are not associated with Topdeck and therefore we can't be responsible for the service you receive from
them. Your Topdeck trip includes professional guides who will accompany you to all the sites mentioned in your itinerary.
General Information
Currency
The currency unit in Morocco is the Dirham (MAD), divided into 100 santimat.
In Morocco euros are widely accepted, so carrying some cash in small denomination notes is helpful. It is generally always possible to change
money into local currency after arriving in the country, and the easiest way is to make a withdrawal from a local ATM.
Local Customs
Morocco is a moderate and tolerant country, however it is common courtesy to respect the local customs of anywhere you travel. Skimpy
shorts and tops are not appropriate attire, especially in markets or at religious sites and places of worship. A sarong or similar wrap-around
is very handy to carry in your day pack. It can act as a head scarf, skirt or to cover bare shoulders if needed.
Your Trip Leader will advise you of areas that you cannot take photos (this won't be often) but if you are taking photos of people you should
get their permission first. Be aware that if you take photos in Jemma-el-Fna Square in Marrakech you will be expected to pay if you are taking
shots of water carriers, snake charmers and other performers as they are likely doing it for your benefit.
Power
Morocco uses the same two-prong plug as used in Europe (CEE 7/16 standard) and a single adapter will work throughout the country.
Voltage
Throughout Morocco the voltage is a uniform 220-230v. If the voltage is the same or similar in your home country your appliance will comply.
If you have a 110v appliance you will need to use a transformer to avoid damaging your appliance.
Contact Us
Should you encounter any difficulties meeting your transfer from the airport to the starting hotel, depending on which country you are in
you can contact a Topdeck representative on the following:
Mountain Safari Tours (our local partner)
64 Lot Laksour
Route de Casablanca
2177 Gueliz
Marrakech
Office phone: +(212) 5 2430 8777
Other emergency contacts: Mr Brahim Errachiki - +(212) 6 6124 2034
In Cases of Emergency
While we hope you never have to use it, if for any reason you need to contact someone from Topdeck, whether it be that you have missed a
trip departure meeting, have become separated from your trip on the road or any other unforeseeable problem, the following options are
available to you.
London Office
Your best recourse to assistance during the day is to call our team between 8am-9pm Monday to Friday and 9.30am-4pm on Saturdays UK
time.
Tel: +44 (0)20 8987 3305
Emergency Contact
If you need to contact Topdeck outside of the above hours the following number is available:
Mobile: +(44) 7792 775 415
Please remember if it is a genuine emergency, we of course want you to call us; however, if it can wait until the next day, we ask that you
call during our office hours. Thank you.
What to bring
We recommend soft bags, suitcases or frameless backpacks, plus a small day pack or carry bag. No external framed bags please, as they
damage other bags on the coach. Please limit your luggage to a maximum of 20kg. Luggage must not exceed dimensions of 70cm in height,
45cm in width and 25cm in depth. Only one piece of luggage is allowed.
Please note that due to space and weight restrictions on our coaches, passengers with too much luggage on departure morning may be told
that they cannot take their entire luggage with them. Luggage storage facilities are usually available at the departure point, if they are not
available you will have to make your own arrangements to have it stored or shipped home. Any luggage left behind will be at your own risk
and you will be required to pay any costs incurred.
Suggested packing list
The golden rule is to travel as light as you can. Only bring what you really need and leave plenty of space for things you might want to buy.
Don't forget you will have to carry your bag around yourself before and after the trip, as well as in and out of where you're staying while on
your trip!
The following is a suggested clothing list only, based on our experience.
1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
1 pair of smart-casual shoes
1 pair of thongs/jandals/flip-flops
2 pairs jeans/trousers
2 pairs shorts/skirts
4 shirts/t-shirts
2 sweaters/jumpers
Smart casual evening wear
1 rainproof jacket
Underwear and socks!
General Things to Pack:
Swimming costume
Beach Towel
Toiletries
Hat & Sunscreen
Basic medical kit (including plasters, aspirin etc.)
Washing powder
Insect repellent
Conversion plug
Optional:
Torch
Travel pillow
Travelling in winter
While the daytime temperatures can be mild in the winter months in the region, the evenings are generally cold, especially in the desert. We
recommend that you bring warm clothing including a warm coat for use in the evenings.
The hotels do not cater for winter temperatures as well as they perhaps could so we recommend you bring something warm to sleep in. You
need a good sleep at night to enjoy the daytime activities. The winter is not the busiest season, so the mild days can make sightseeing more
enjoyable than during the heat of summer, and provided you have some warm clothes, walking through street markets without the crowds is
a joy.
Sleeping bags
A sleeping bag will not be required for your trip.
Final checklist
Passport (with visas if required!)
Airline tickets (where applicable)
Insurance Policy (you must bring these details with you)
Camera; batteries; chargers; conversion plug
Topdeck eKit global phone card, SIM card or phone
Keep in touch & stay secure
Claim your free Topdeck Global SIM card before you leave for your trip!
Just follow this link to claim yours:www.topdeck.ekit.com/freesim use your Topdeck “Booking Reference” and purchase a minimum of $20
calling credit.
The Topdeck SIM is a roaming SIM and designed just for travellers. Drop it into your unlocked handset and enjoy huge savings on
international calls, SMS and Data, when travelling throughout Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Africa and the Middle East.
Every SIM card also includes the ekit Travel Journal. The Travel Journal automatically updates your location to Google maps on a daily basis.
This allows you to keep track of where you've been, and with the option to publish this on Facebook and Twitter you can easily show-off your
travels to friends and family. Not only does this provide a hassle free way of keeping in contact, but you can text in your own journal updates
or photos and receive free notifications when people comment on your Facebook timeline.
Free SIM card and US$10 bonus call credit, when you purchase US$20 of call credit
Coverage in over 190 countries (including all of Europe)
Free shipping to Australia, UK, Europe, USA and Canada
Save up to 90% on international calls
Data from $0.49/MB
Pre-paid so no worry about bill shock!
Please check that your handset is unlocked with your phone provider before you depart. You will be unable to use SIMs with a locked
handset.
For more information visit the previous URL or phone our dedicated 24/7 Customer Service on:
Australia: 1800 795 252
UK: 0800 376 2370
USA: 1-888-513-8804
Canada: 1-888-513-8804
Security
Use ekit's travel vault and avoid hassles along the way. You can securely store all your important documents online, passport number,
insurance and visa information and travellers cheques details. Refer to the ekit brochure or visit www.topdeck.ekit.com
Starting to get excited?!