Women Expedition A
About This Trip
On this female-only trip, we will visit unique places and events accessible for women-only due to local customs.
Be aware: Men are not allowed to book this tour.
This trip includes 4-7 hours of walking on some days through picturesque valleys, and hilly terrain so appropriate footwear and clothing, including a warm jacket and raincoat are essential. You also need a 3/4 season sleeping bag as the guesthouses and gites may not be heated. You will be sharing rooms with other female travellers, and on some days, there are two big shared rooms with up to five others. Bathroom facilities are shared, with hot showers available each evening. While trekking, your luggage will be transported on mules so you may not have access to your bags during the day so ensure you bring a day pack and carry essentials like sunscreen, water, camera, etc.
You will be able to participate in activities, including rug-weaving, baking, and makeup workshops.
ITINERARY
DAY 1
Welcome to Marrakech
We start with a welcome meeting at 6pm – please check at the hotel reception for information. After there’s the option of joining your leader and fellow travellers for dinner, followed by a visit to Djemaa el Fna, the lively square in the Medina. If you arrive in Marrakech earlier, why not visit sights like the Koutoubia Mosque, Majorelle, or the Palais Bahia.
Good to know
If you can’t arrange a flight to arrive on time, you may wish to arrive a day earlier. We’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). We’ll collect your insurance and next of kin information at the meeting, so please have these ready.
DAY 2
Bou Tharar Village
The journey to Bout Tharar village will be by private transport and will take approximately 7 hours. You’ll be hosted by local women, with Berber music and local songs, plus a tasty meal. Accommodation for the night is a beautiful terracotta gite (rural guesthouse) with stunning views of the surrounding hills.
DAY 3
Agouti Village
Set off on a hike from Bout Tharar village to Agouti (approximately 5–6 hours). In the afternoon, learn how to prepare specialty dishes at a cooking class including how couscous is traditionally prepared – a classic component of Moroccan cuisine.
Good to know
Today’s guesthouse is multi-share with two or three other travelers in the group. Bathroom facilities are also shared, with hot showers.
DAY 4
Amejgag Village
We will set off this morning through Agouti Gorge, crossing through Almdoun Village to Amejgag (approximately 5–6 hours). The dramatic red of the gorge gives the place an other-worldly feel. At some point during the hike you will need to cross a river, maybe multiple times depending on the water levels, so roll up your trousers and take your shoes off. We’d recommend bringing closed toes sandals for the crossings.
In Amejgag Village, try your hand at weaving at a local ladies’ cooperative. Afterwards, there will be a walk through the village to see the local architecture.
Good to know
Today’s accommodation is twin rooms; however, bathroom facilities are shared.
DAY 5
Issoummar Village
Enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast and learn to make the flatbread, khobz. Trek through more of Morocco’s spectacular landscape, stopping at Timtda Village for a picnic lunch. After lunch, we’ll climb uphill to the Tissardan pass, which offers a fantastic view of the M’Goun Valley, then descend to Issoummar, where we’ll spend the night. Listen to traditional folk tales, try traditional dresses, and play music and sing along with local women inside the guesthouse.
Good to know
Tonight’s accommodation is large rooms shared between six travelers. Bathroom facilities are shared.
DAY 6
Bou Tharar
Follow the M’Goun River back to Bou Tharar (approximately 5–6 hours). After lunch, visit a farm and learn traditional farming skills such as milking, battering the milk, and bringing herbs from the farm to feed the animals. Animals are an essential part of local Moroccan life, and often, the wealth of the family depends on livestock.
Take some time to rest before trying traditional makeup, including henna and kohl. After having your dress picked out and makeup is done, attend a party that imitates a Berber wedding and enjoy a final group dinner.
DAY 7
Marrakech
On the way to Marrakech, we will stop at Ait Benhaddou with its thousand-year-old allure. This UNESCO-protected marvel has featured in many famous films, such as Lawrence of Arabia, and Gladiator. Make the most of your final night in Marrakech by as you choose; perhaps head out on the town or spend time in the Djemaa el-Fna square.
GALLERIE
