For my next installation of reminiscing on past trips, here is an itinerary and photo album from my time in Morocco. My whole family would agree that this was an amazing experience, from the unique and vibrant culture to the beautiful landscapes. Here’s how we spent our time:

Days One – Six

We began our trip at Palais Namaskar in Marrakech. If you are looking for lavish Moroccan architecture and design, this hotel is perfect. We had a gorgeous room with its own pool, lots of fun for my brother and me, and the hotel grounds were immaculate. We loved this hotel.

Day One … We explored Marrakech, which is comprised of an old and new city. The old city is very traditional, with its people wearing Berber (the native tribe of Morocco and the Atlas Mountains) outfits. The new part, conversely, has more chain stores, and the people were wearing more modern clothing.

Day Two … We took a cooking lesson, where we relaxed over tea, saw the amazing variety of spices they used, explored the garden and village, and made traditional Moroccan food, including tajines (slow-cooked stew of meat or vegetables). A neat part of Moroccan culture is that you often eat meals seated on pillows, with a low table. Overall, it was an amazing experience!

Day Three … In the morning, we explored Marrakech’s local markets (souks), which was a great experience. They are unlike anything you might find in America and give you a glimpse of true Moroccan life. We even learned how to make Moroccan drums from a local shop owner. Watch out for motorcycles–and donkeys–in the street! The few driving laws seem to be scarcely enforced.

In the afternoon, we took a beautiful hike, departing from Kasbah Tamadot in the Atlas Mountains.

We then visited one of Marrakech’s many palaces, which was stunning. Later that afternoon, my mother and I went shopping. We had custom kaftans made, which was so neat. I still have mine! For dinner, we took a food tour of Marrakech, which allowed us to try many traditional dishes.

Day Five … Today we visited the Majorelle Garden, restored by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé. I do not have a photo, but it was very beautiful.

Day Six … We visited a university in Marrakech that is over 700 years old, and was in use for 500 years. Afterwards, we walked around the souks, learned to make drums from a local vendor, and visited a beautiful home store, where we purchased many amazing pieces for our house! That night, we had a wonderful private dinner at a nearby hotel, complete with a live band.

Days Seven – Ten

Day Seven … Today we drove five hours to Skoura, located on the northern tip of the Sahara Desert.

We stayed at the beautiful Dar Ahlam. This hotel – a 200-year-old Kasbah (fortress) overlooking the Atlas Mountains – is absolutely incredible! It has fourteen rooms, allowing for amazing service. For example, every meal is served privately at a different location around the property.

That night, the hotel brought us to a beautiful vantage point to watch the sun set whilst enjoying some tea. It was exceptional!

Day Eight … Today we went ATV riding, which showed us the beauty of the area. We even got to see the homes of nomads, who had just left that morning to head into the mountains. That afternoon, we took a cooking lesson.

Day Nine … We went on a camel ride. It was very touristy, but lots of fun! For lunch, the hotel set up a beautiful picnic by a river.

Day Ten … On our last day, we took a walk through some beautiful almond groves and relaxed for the rest of the afternoon.

That concludes my amazing trip to Morocco. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, though I hope I can go back! If you enjoyed this post, subscribe to my blog below, and check out my related posts. Do not hesitate to leave a comment with any questions about Morocco or other places.

Note – for safety, we used a guide for our entire trip and would recommend the same.