Hiker’s Journey to Morocco

Our hikes take place in altitudes of 5,000 to 7,000 feet. The trails are mostly mule track and well-worn paths from village use, but there are some short, steep sections. When we have a trailside lunch, it will usually be picnic style, with fresh salads, cheese, bread, and other items prepared by our cook, and served in a dining tent with a simple table and chairs.

Each participant should be in good health, since most days on the trip include hiking on paths that are a mix of dirt and rocky terrain; the trails are occasionally steep but not exposed. Being in good physical condition is important for your enjoyment of the trip. The best way to get accustomed to walking and being on your feet throughout the day is by incorporating exercise into your schedule leading up to your departure. We recommend walking, hiking, and engaging in physical activities; stair-climbing machines are excellent preparation for walking uphill.

Morocco has climatic variations but the weather is largely moderate, with a cooling influence from the Mediterranean and Atlantic. The average temperature is 62°-73°F on the west coast and 50°-80°F in the interior. In the mountains, peaks are snow-capped most of the year but it can be hot during the daytime. In the south, the weather is hot and dry throughout the year, and temperatures can drop dramatically at night.

Please note that in traditional Moroccan riads, no two rooms are exactly alike. Many riads were originally private residences, and each room was designed with its own unique layout, size, and decor. While we book the same room categories, you might notice differences in the design or features of individual rooms. This is part of the charm of staying in a riad—it offers a truly authentic experience, and one that we feel is incredibly important. But, please keep in mind that each property will have different room sizes and styles due to the unique nature of the property itself.

Some of our departures may coincide with Ramadan, the holiest month of the Islamic calendar. Ramadan is a deeply spiritual time for Muslims, during which they abstain from food, drink, and smoking from sunrise to sunset. Working hours are often shortened so folks can return home in time to break their fast with family and friends. Rest assured that you'll be able to eat and drink during the day at all hotels and restaurants we visit. Alcoholic beverages are still available to foreigners and non-Muslims at some hotels. During Ramadan, some shops and sites may operate on reduced hours. If this occurs, we adjust our itinerary accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Ramadan is a special time to visit this region, offering engagement with a meaningful aspect of local culture. Throughout the month, hotels and restaurants host special “Iftar” meals (the fast-breaking dinner at sunset) and “Sahoor” (the pre-dawn meal), often accompanied by festive decor. Visitors to Morocco will see streets adorned with colorful lights and decorations, especially in larger cities such as Casablanca, Marrakesh and Fes. Lanterns, known as “fawanees,” hang from doorways and storefronts, a tradition dating back nearly 1,000 years when the lanterns were used to light processions celebrating the sighting of the crescent moon, marking the start of Ramadan. Today, they remain a beloved symbol of the season throughout the Arab world, much like a Christmas tree during the holiday season. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.