Marrakech & Agadir

About the destination: Gateway to the desert and the south, Marrakech is overwhelming like no other imperial city of Morocco. Its reddish-pink streets and alleys are full of sounds, sights, smells and life. The mid-summer heat is enough to prostrate most tourists. The best times to explore Marrakech are early morning, early evening, and winter, during winter temperatures are mild, but fall significantly at night, due to the cold air from the High Atlas. The Djemaa El-Fna, Assembly of the Dead, is anything but what its name suggests. A hot and crowded market by day, the Djemaa really gets rolling at sunset when the entertainers invade. This chaotic outdoor circus offers a microcosms of Morocco at its most exotic. The huge audience clusters in tight circles around the diverse cast of performers. Almost every tour of Marrakech begins at the 12th century Koutoubia Mosque, with its magnificent minaret presiding over the Djemaa. The minaret, crowned by a lantern of three golden spheres, is the oldest and purest surviving example of the architecture of the Almohads. The city’s two most breathtaking monuments date from the 16th century. Feast your eyes and cool off at the ornate Ben Youssef Madrassa, the largest Qur’anic school in North Africa. Even more lavish are the dazzling Saadian Tombs, modelled upon the interior of the Alhambra in Granada. The view from the terrace at the Badi Palace, now in ruins, is majestic. Close by we find the 19th century Bahia Palace. It is an ornate and beautiful palace with restful fountained gardens. To escape from the relentless midday sun, wander in the lush Menara Gardens and lounge in the charming lakeside pavilion. Marrakech is noisy, busy, dusty and chaotic. It is a visual and sensory banquet of colour, diverse cultures, architecture and design. Marrakech delivers an exotic and exciting taste of Africa and the best part is that it is only a few hours away from Europe by plane.

About the destination:

Agadir, nestled along the sun-kissed shores of southern Morocco, is a modern coastal city renowned for its golden beaches, warm climate, and relaxed atmosphere. Situated at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Agadir offers a unique blend of traditional Moroccan culture and contemporary amenities. Visitors flock to its expansive beachfront, where endless stretches of pristine sand invite sunbathing, water sports, and leisurely strolls along the promenade. The city's vibrant souks, or markets, brim with colorful handicrafts, spices, and local treasures, while its bustling port serves as a hub for fresh seafood and lively waterfront dining experiences. Agadir also boasts a rich history, with remnants of its ancient past visible in landmarks such as the Kasbah, offering panoramic views of the city and coastline. Whether indulging in culinary delights, exploring historic sites, or simply basking in the warmth of its welcoming ambiance, Agadir captivates visitors with its enchanting blend of natural beauty and cultural charm.