Joint expedition journey with the Russian Geographical Society and a scientist from the Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography (Kunstkamera) RAS, from Chefchaouen to Merzouga: to the land of Berber traditions and Sufi practices, unique zellij mosaics, the ksars of Ouarzazate, and the dunes of the Sahara
MOROCCO

* IN COLLABORATION WITH THE RUSSIAN GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY
tour to Morocco
October 7 - 17, 2026
Morocco
tour to Cure Salee
A joint expeditionary journey with the Russian Geographical Society and a scientist from the Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography (Kunstkamera), RAS, in Morocco is a rare opportunity for a comprehensive immersion into the depths of Berber traditions. We will visit the waterfront and the old medina of Casablanca, where we will hear stories about Morocco's traditional arts.

In Marrakesh, luxurious riads and intricate labyrinths of narrow streets await us, where time seems to have stopped several centuries ago, while in Fez we will get acquainted with the craft of leatherworking. We will ascend into the mysterious Rif Mountains to see the legendary Chefchaouen — Morocco's "blue pearl." We will immerse ourselves in the labyrinth of its blue-turquoise streets, learn the history and meaning of this unique color, and feel the special, incomparable atmosphere of this sacred city.

We will explore the ancient ksars of Ouarzazate and bask in the majesty of the dunes of the boundless Sahara. We will sample national Berber cuisine, see traditional Berber dwellings, and listen to their songs and music. We will get to know the traditional zellij mosaic through various cultural and architectural monuments, visit small workshops and production sites. We will even try to create our own small piece of craftwork and take it home as a memento of this captivatingly profound and beautiful journey to the country of the setting sun, Morocco.

Tour to Morocco Kasablanka Marrakesh Fes Rabat Sahara berbers

SСHEDULE & COST:
Dates: October 7 - 17, 2026

Duration: 11 days / 10 nights

Number of participants: 7 – 12

Cost per person:
  • 5 090 EUR subject to 12 participants, or
  • 5 250 EUR subject to 11 participants or
  • 5 490 EUR subject to 9 - 10 participants
  • 5 790 EUR subject to 7 - 8 participants, based on double accommodation.

10% discount for early booking (until April 7, 2026)

Everything is included except:
- international flights to Casablanca and back,
- Morocco visa (no visa is needed for citizens of Russia for a period up to 90 days),
- International health insurance,
- partially lunches and dinners.

Approximate cost of international flight Moscow - Casablanca - Moscow: from 500 euros (Purchased by your own. We advise)

Single supplement: 550 euros (provided in hotels throughout the entire itinerary).


TRAVEL PROGRAM: tour to Morocco
тур в Марокко с Русским географическим обществом
Day 1. October 7, 2026 (Wednesday). CASABLANCA

Our journey begins with arrival at 12:35 at Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca, where we will be met by our local hosts. After lunch, at 14:00, a rich excursion through Morocco's economic capital will commence, accompanied by a Russian-speaking guide.
We will visit the Museum of Traditional Arts, as well as the Academy of Traditional Arts, where we will immerse ourselves in the world of ten ancient Berber crafts under the guidance of an expert. We will see the majestic Hassan II Mosque from the outside, visit the elegant French Quartier Habous and Mohammed V Square, and take a stroll along the Atlantic Ocean waterfront.
After checking into a 4* hotel and resting, the day will conclude with dinner at the legendary Rick's Café, followed by an overnight stay at the hotel in Casablanca.

Meals included: dinner
Accommodation included: Idou Anfa Hôtel & Spa 4* or similar

Recommended flights:
- Royal Air Maroc, direct flight from Moscow, departs Moscow on October 7 at 08:10 am, arrives in Casablanca on October 7 at 12:25.
- Any other flight from any city arriving in Casablanca no later than 13:00 pm on October 7.


Day 2. October 8, 2026 (Thursday). CASABLANCA – CHEFCHAOUEN

Early in the morning at 07:00, after breakfast at the hotel, we set off to encounter one of Morocco's main jewels — the magical Chefchaouen. Our journey to the "Blue Pearl" (approximately 340 km) winds through the picturesque serpentine roads of the Rif Mountains, where landscapes change like a kaleidoscope: green hills, silvery olive groves, mountain streams, and cozy Berber villages.
But first, we will meet the grandeur of Moroccan history. Around 09:00, we will make a stop in Rabat — the elegant political capital of the kingdom. Here, we will touch UNESCO World Heritage sites: we'll walk among the ancient ruins of Chellah, feel the atmosphere of bygone eras in the mighty Kasbah of the Udayas, pay our respects at the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and witness the dream frozen in stone at the Hassan Tower. After the immersive tour, we will have a coffee break and the opportunity to capture these magnificent views.
Then, we will stop for lunch at a cozy café along the way to gather strength for the final leg of the journey.
Approximately by 17:00, we arrive in Chefchaouen. Our immersion into its magic begins immediately — a walking tour through the famous Blue Medina with a Russian-speaking guide. We will walk through the main square, Outa el Hammam, peek into the 15th-century Kasbah and the cozy Andalusian Garden, get lost in the labyrinth of alleys painted in hypnotic shades of indigo, and visit craft workshops where unique wool, leather, and textile items are born. We will feel the rhythm of life at the legendary Ras el Ma spring.
And later, the culmination of the day awaits us — a leisurely 25-minute walk to the Spanish Mosque. We will meet the sunset at the viewpoint, which offers a stunning panorama: the entire blue city, as if descended from a painter's canvas, lies at our feet in the rays of the setting sun. This is a moment for the most beautiful photographs and quiet admiration.
After this, we will check into our cozy riad — a true fairytale house, whose ambiance will transport you into magical stories from childhood. In the evening, we will enjoy a dinner infused with local color, followed by rest and a night in this unique riad in the heart of Chefchaouen.

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: Dar Echchaouen Maison d'Hôtes & Riad or similar


Day 3. October 9, 2026 (Friday). CHEFCHAOUEN – VOLUBILIS – MEKNES – FEZ

Our day will begin with breakfast at the cozy riad, after which we will depart from the azure Chefchaouen heading south. The road will gift us picturesque views of the Rif valleys, endless olive groves, and tranquil rural landscapes. Around 09:30, we will take a coffee break near Ouezzane to rest before diving into the depths of history.
We will reach one of Morocco's main ancient pearls — the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Accompanied by a guide, we will embark on a one-hour tour of the most impressive ruins: we will walk under the majestic Triumphal Arch of Caracalla, imagine the former grandeur of the Basilica and the Capitol, admire the exquisite mosaics in the patrician villas, considered some of the finest in North Africa. A panoramic view of the Zerhoun hills and the sacred mausoleum will complete the picture.
Next, we continue our journey and arrive for lunch in Meknes, a former imperial capital. A city tour awaits us, exploring the legacy of the mighty Sultan Moulay Ismail. We will see the grand Bab el-Mansour gate, feel the city's pulse at Lahdim Square, visit the ruler's mausoleum, as well as the impressive ancient royal stables and granaries.
We will enjoy lunch with Moroccan cuisine in an atmospheric riad or on a panoramic terrace. Then, we will head for an elegant tasting of Moroccan wines at the Villa Volubilia vineyards, where a small production managed by a French family is renowned for its quality.
Our path will lead to a small settlement of the Ait Yazem Confederation, where we will get acquainted with a unique women's craft — creating pottery with patterns rooted in weaving traditions and even ancient tattoos.
In the evening, after a panoramic stop at Borj Nord to admire the ancient medina from above, we finally arrive in Fez — the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco. After checking into a luxurious riad, dinner and free time await us to soak in the atmosphere of this amazing city. We will spend the night in a 4* riad in the very heart of Fez.

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: Riad Al Makan Fes & Spa 4* or similar


Day 4. October 10, 2026 (Saturday). FEZ

After breakfast at the riad, an amazing journey into the heart of Moroccan culture awaits us — a guided tour of the Fez el-Bali medina, the world's largest surviving medieval city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. We will enter through the famous Bab Bou Jeloud gate, adorned with tiles, and immerse ourselves in a labyrinth of streets where time has stood still. We will visit spiritual gems — the Bou Inania or Attarine Madrasas, the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the Zawiya of Moulay Idriss II — and dive into the bustling life of the Tala'a Kebira market. We will see creations being born in the craft quarters, witness the unique process at the famous Chouara tanneries, and discover treasures at the Nejjarine Museum. This walk is a true journey through the centuries.
Around 13:00, having soaked in the impressions, we will rest and have lunch in an atmospheric historical riad, where the very setting tells stories of the past.
Then, one of the deepest cultural immersions will begin — a three-hour zellij (mosaic) tile-making workshop. Under the guidance of a maâlem, a true master craftsman, we will engage with one of Morocco's most iconic and complex arts. We will hear stories about the Andalusian and Fez origins of zellij, decipher the symbolism of the geometric patterns, and most importantly, with our own hands, go through the stages of the ancient process: from cutting the clay tiles to assembling the pattern using traditional tools and natural pigments in a workshop filled with the spirit of authentic creativity.
This eventful day will conclude with dinner at one of Fez's characteristic restaurants, where we can discuss the day's emotions in a relaxed atmosphere. Overnight at the 4* riad in Fez.

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: Riad Al Makan Fes & Spa 4* or similar


Day 5. October 11, 2026 (Sunday). FEZ

We will dedicate the morning of this day to continuing our creative immersion into Morocco's artisanal traditions. After breakfast at the riad, we will return to the workshop, where the geometry of zellij gives way to the plasticity and warmth of clay. For three hours, we will master the ancient art of ceramic production: feel how clay comes to life under our hands on the potter's wheel, learn about the firing processes, and, inspired by the rich heritage, paint the finished pieces using patterns and symbols from Berber, Jewish, and African cultures.
Around 13:00, after thoughtful creative work, lunch awaits us at one of Fez's craft-oriented restaurants to regain our strength.
After lunch, you will have free time for a leisurely exploration of the city. You can stroll through the quiet streets of Fez el-Jdid (New Fez), visit its historic Jewish Quarter (Mellah), see the majestic Royal Gates, and find peace in the shaded Andalusian Gardens of Dar Batha.
The culmination of the day will be an evening spent as a guest in a Moroccan home. In the evening, we will head to a Berber family for dinner, where hospitality will be the main course. This special evening will be accompanied by a musical performance by the Aissawa Sufi group. Their mesmerizing rhythms and trance-inducing melodies, glorifying the Prophet Muhammad and carrying a deep spiritual message, will create a unique atmosphere.
Afterwards, we will return for the night to our comfortable 4* riad in Fez.

Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Accommodation included: Riad Al Makan Fes & Spa 4* or similar


Day 6. October 12, 2026 (Monday). FEZ – IFRANE – CEDAR FOREST OF AZROU – MIDELT – ZIZ VALLEY – ERFOUD – MERZOUGA – LUXURY DESERT CAMP IN THE ERG CHEBBI DUNES

Today awaits a grand journey from the country's historic heart to its eternal soul — the Sahara Desert. Early in the morning after breakfast, we will leave Fez and embark on a 460-km route through three different Moroccos, traversing the most diverse landscapes.
Already by 08:30, we will make our first stop in the surprising Ifrane — the "Moroccan Switzerland." Here, amidst houses with pointed roofs and alpine landscapes, we will take an invigorating walk through a coniferous forest, breathing in the purest mountain air.
Next, we will encounter a natural wonder — the cedar forest near Azrou. Among ancient giants, we will observe playful Barbary macaques and enjoy the silence and healing atmosphere of this place.
Afterwards, the scenery will shift to the volcanic landscapes of the Ziz Plateau and the fertile apple orchards of the Midelt region, where we will stop for lunch.
One of the kingdom's most breathtaking views awaits us — a panoramic overlook of the Ziz Valley. From the heights, a giant green canyon will unfold before us, dotted with tens of thousands of date palms, like a living miracle amidst the stone.
Along the way, we will also touch the genius of ancient engineers by visiting the 11th-century underground khettara irrigation channels — a brilliant system that has given life to oases for centuries.
Approximately by 15:30, we will reach the gateway to the desert — the town of Erfoud, famous for its fossils. And finally, we arrive in the village of Merzouga, where the asphalt world ends and the realm of sand begins.
Here, a team of nomads will greet us. After a short rest, the most romantic adventure will begin — a camel trek to the heart of the golden Erg Chebbi dunes. In complete silence, to the steady pace of the "ships of the desert," we will immerse ourselves in the hypnotic beauty of endless sands shimmering in all shades of gold.
At 18:30, we will witness one of nature's greatest spectacles — the sunset over the Sahara dunes.
This unforgettable day will culminate under an endless starry sky. Dinner and an overnight stay await us at a luxurious desert bivouac, where comfort blends with the spirit of a true adventure.

Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Accommodation included: Desert Rose Camp or similar


Day 7. October 13, 2026 (Tuesday). ERG CHEBBI DUNES, SAHARA DESERT

The day will begin with a leisurely breakfast at our camp, followed by a true adventure in the heart of the Sahara. We will set off in 4x4 vehicles across the rugged terrain at the foot of the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes, contemplating the harsh yet mesmerizing landscapes, ancient settlements, and traces of Berber nomadic life.
We will immerse ourselves in the unique desert culture by visiting the village of Khamlia — a spiritual center of Gnawa music, recognized as an intangible UNESCO cultural heritage. We will enjoy a live performance by musicians whose rhythms and songs carry centuries-old Afro-Berber heritage, and share tea with them.
Then, we will continue exploring the vast expanse. We will ascend the Sacred Berber Mountain. According to ancient belief, building a small stone cairn at its summit (500m) and leaving a piece of oneself (a fragment of clothing or hair) inside allows you to make a wish that will surely come true.
After this spiritual and physical ascent, an authentic and heartfelt lunch awaits us in the home of a nomadic Berber family, where we will experience true desert hospitality.
By 16:30, we will return to the realm of sand. After enjoying a horse ride through the mysterious rocky Black Sahara, we will find the perfect spot to quietly and peacefully witness another unforgettable sunset over the golden Erg Chebbi dunes.
In the evening, dinner and an overnight stay await us at the luxurious desert bivouac. Festive Gnawa music around the campfire will create a magical atmosphere, after which we can admire the incredible starry sky of the Sahara and take a night walk across the warm, silent dunes bathed in moonlight.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Desert Rose Camp or similar


Day 8. October 14, 2026 (Wednesday). MERZOUGA – ERFOUD – TODRA GORGE – DADES GORGE

In the morning after breakfast, we will bid farewell to the hospitable bivouac in Merzouga and head west, leaving the golden dunes behind. Our 300 km journey passes through hypnotic desert landscapes with solitary acacia trees and nomadic settlements, slowly giving way to the first signs of life.
As early as 09:00, we will stop in Erfoud to delve into its geological history. We will visit a workshop where evidence of ancient life comes alive — fossils of prehistoric creatures that inhabited this ocean floor millions of years ago. If desired, we can also visit the colorful date market.
Then, we will reach the green heart of the desert — the palm oasis of Tinejdad. This is a place of tranquility where time flows slowly under the rustle of palm trees. We will see the ingenious network of irrigation canals, well-tended fields, mud-brick ksour, and traditional Berber houses perfectly integrated into the landscape.
A meeting with one of Morocco's natural wonders awaits us — the majestic Todra Gorge. Here, we will spend about an hour, standing in awe before 300-meter-high sheer red limestone cliffs, listening to the roar of the river at the bottom of the canyon, and watching daring climbers on the walls.
Afterwards, we will enjoy lunch with a view of these colossal cliffs in Todra or nearby Boumalne Dades.
At 14:00, our journey continues into the scenic Dades Valley, a realm of whimsical rock formations, ancient kasbahs, and blooming almond orchards set against pink-red mountains.
We will arrive at the Dades Gorge itself. We will explore its iconic sites: see the fantastical "Monkey Fingers" rock formation, drive up the famous Tissadrin serpentine road — one of the country's most photogenic routes with dizzying turns and panoramic views that will stay in memory forever.
By 17:00, we will check into a cozy hotel or riad in the heart of the valley, offering stunning mountain views from the windows. After a day full of impressions, this is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peace.
This eventful day will conclude with dinner at the riad accompanied by the traditional rhythms of Berber Ahwach music, completing our immersion into the culture and nature of this amazing region.

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: Palm Dades or similar


Day 9. October 15, 2026 (Thursday). DADES GORGE – OUARZAZATE – AIT BEN HADDOU KSAR – MARRAKESH

After breakfast, we will leave the hospitable Dades Valley and continue further south, covering 350 km today through the ever-changing, kaleidoscopic landscapes of Morocco.
At 09:00, we will visit the famous Valley of the Roses. We will stop by a women's cooperative where delicate rose water and other natural products are crafted, immersing ourselves in the scent of one of the country's most romantic crafts.
Our journey then leads through the majestic Skoura Palm Grove, one of the largest oases. We will pause at the ancient Kasbah of Amridil to appreciate the power and harmony of traditional Berber architecture made of clay and straw.
By lunchtime, we arrive in Ouarzazate, known as the "Gateway to the Desert." Here, we will take a break for rest and photos at the impressive Kasbah of Taourirt, the former residence of powerful rulers, and wander through its labyrinth.
At 13:00, a true wonder awaits us — the Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Led by a guide, we will explore this ancient fortified city: climb into its granaries, walk through narrow alleyways between earthen towers, and feel the spirit of caravan trade. We will enjoy lunch right here, in the shade of centuries-old walls.
We will touch upon one of the most refined arts by visiting a carpet cooperative. This is an immersion into the 'feminine' creative heritage of the Berbers: we will meet the craftswomen, learn the secrets of dyeing wool with natural pigments, and decipher the ancient symbolism hidden in every pattern.
Afterwards, our journey through the mountains begins. We will embark on an exciting drive over the Tizi n'Tichka Pass in the High Atlas (2,260 m), stopping at panoramic terraces to admire the views of cedar forests and mountain villages one last time.
Finally, we will reach our destination — the legendary Marrakesh. We will enter the city through its historic gates, sensing the unique energy of the "Red City." After checking into our riad, we will conclude this eventful day with dinner at one of the city's characteristic restaurants, savoring new shades of Moroccan cuisine. We will spend the night in a cozy riad in Marrakesh.

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: Jaal Riad Resort 5* or similar


Day 10. October 16, 2026 (Friday). MARRAKESH

Today, we dedicate our journey to a complete immersion in the atmosphere of legendary Marrakesh. After breakfast, we will set out on a guided tour of the city's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
We will begin our acquaintance with Jemaa el-Fnaa Square — a unique "open-air theater" breathing a thousand stories. Next, we will explore the pearls of Moroccan architecture:
* The Bahia Palace — a masterpiece whose name means "Palace of the Beauty," will impress with the elegance of its halls and courtyards.
* The Ben Youssef Madrasa — one of the largest and most beautiful theological schools in the Maghreb, a benchmark of Berber-Arab decorative art.
We will see the majestic minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque, the city's symbol, and the walls of the ancient Kasbah.
We will immerse ourselves in the bustling, colorful life of the medina's markets (souks) and visit a shop of authentic Berber goods, where unique souvenirs can be found.
At 13:00, lunch awaits us on the rooftop of a restaurant with a breathtaking panoramic view of the old medina and the famous square.
After lunch, we will head to the fascinating Museum of Dolls (Elegance), where history comes alive through national costumes. We will see how the attire of Berber tribes from the north, south, east, and center of the country differs, and also get acquainted with the refined Jewish and Andalusian traditions in clothing.
Then, our cultural immersion will continue at the Music Museum. Here, we will learn about the main musical genres of Morocco, from mountain chants to Sufi rhythms, and see a variety of traditional instruments and stage costumes.
At 18:00, the culmination of the day will be dinner and a live concert right within the walls of this museum. Accompanied by the magical sounds of traditional Moroccan music, we will enjoy a farewell dinner, the perfect finale to our grand journey.
After the concert, you will have free time for final strolls through the evening Marrakesh or relaxation. We will spend the night in our riad, preserving the magic of the "Red City" in our memories.

Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Accommodation included: : Jaal Riad Resort 5* or similar


Day 11. October 17, 2026 (Saturday). MARRAKESH – CASABLANCA

Our final day in Morocco will begin at a contemplative pace. After breakfast at the riad, we will head to one of Marrakesh's most serene corners — the famous Jardin Majorelle.
This oasis, created by the artist Jacques Majorelle and saved from oblivion by Yves Saint Laurent, will amaze us with its harmony. We will stroll among a collection of cacti and exotic plants, enjoy the tranquility by the fountains, and immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of the famous Blue Villa and Villa Oasis. Here, we will also visit two museums:
* The Berber Art Museum, which houses treasures of Morocco's indigenous culture.
* The Musée Yves Saint Laurent, dedicated to the work of the great couturier whose love for Morocco inspired his masterpieces.
At 13:00, a unique and delicious experience awaits us — a culinary masterclass at the National Museum of Culinary Arts in Marrakesh. Under the guidance of a chef, we will learn to prepare classic Moroccan dishes and then enjoy a lunch of what we have cooked with our own hands — the most authentic and memorable culinary souvenir.
After this, we will begin our farewell to the kingdom. A transfer to Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca awaits us. Estimated arrival at the airport is around 19:30.
Bon voyage, and until we meet again in amazing Morocco!

*Recommended flights:
- Royal Air Maroc, direct flight to Moscow, departing from Casablanca on October 17 at 22:50, arriving in Moscow on October 18 at 07:00.
- Any other flight to any city, departing from Casablanca no earlier than 22:30 on October 17.

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: -
EXPEDITIONAL TRIP'S LEADERS AND EXPERTS
EXPEDITIONAL TRIP LEADER


Sveta is a fan of breaking cultural stereotypes and choosing unconventional routes.

She has enchanted 1000 foreigners with Russia, volunteered with children in South America, developed a startup in India, danced at the carnival in Rio de Janeiro, and skied in the Himalayas.







SVETLANA VARGINA
MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS
EXPERT FROM RUSSIAN GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY

Research interests: the history of human evolution in diverse habitats, folk folklore, symbolism in languages and traditional customs of African peoples.

Focused on strengthening Russia-Africa international and scientific ties through promoting the Russian language, studying Russian heritage, and implementing Russian scientific and cultural projects in Morocco and Mauritania.


MARINA SEMENENKO
Candidate of Economic Sciences, member of the Russian Geographical Society
EXPERT OF MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY AND ETHNOGRAPHY (KUNSTKAMERA) OF RUSSIAN ACADEMY OF SCIENCES

Art historian, Associate Scientist of MAE RAS Department of African Ethnography. Graduate Student of the Academy of Arts n.a Ilya Repin

Field of scientific interest: architecture and monumental-decorative art of North Africa and the Middle East.
Thesis topic: Monumental and decorative design of mosques in North Africa (9-12 centuries): genesis and semantics
Field studies: Syria, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia.
ALEXANDRA PALLADES
Associate Scientist, Africa Ethnography Division
Cost includes:
  • Accommodation in hotels, riads, and camp based on double/twin occupancy
  • Transfer (Mercedes minibus, driver, fuel) – 11 days
  • Accompaniment by a Russian-speaking guide and an English-speaking guide throughout the journey – 11 days
  • Official local guides in cities: Casablanca, Volubilis, Fez, Marrakesh
  • Guided tour of the Academy of Traditional Arts in Casablanca
  • Workshops under the guidance of masters (zellij mosaic, ceramics) in Fez – 2 days
  • Musical performance of Aissawa music in a Berber family home
  • Musical performance of Gnawa music around the campfire at the desert camp
  • Musical performance of Ahwach music at the hotel in the Dades Gorge
  • Accommodation in a luxury Sahara desert camp with camel rides and full board – 2 nights (2 dinners, 2 breakfasts)
  • 4x4 vehicle rental in the desert – 1 day
  • Horse rental in the Sahara desert – 1 day
  • Entrance tickets to historical sites according to the program
  • Culinary class at the National Museum of Marrakesh
  • 1 lunch with a Berber family in the Sahara, 1 dinner with a Berber family in Fez, dinner at Rick’s Café in Casablanca, dinner with a concert at the Music Museum in Marrakesh
  • Wine tasting at Villa Volubilia
  • Participation of an expert from the Russian Geographical Society throughout the route
  • Participation of a scientist from the Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography (Kunstkamera), Russian Academy of Sciences throughout the route
  • Russian- and English-speaking team leader throughout the entire expeditionary journey.


Cost excludes (to be paid additionally):

  • International flight Moscow – Casablanca – Moscow
  • Medical insurance
  • Lunches and dinners in all cities, excluding mentioned in the program
  • Entrance tickets to museums, parks, and other sites not specified in the program
  • Personal expenses (taxi, shopping, tea/coffee, etc.)
  • Tips


To take with:

  • Clothing sets suitable for weather conditions, one set of warm clothes
  • Long sleeve clothing set
  • Repellents
  • Mosquito net
  • Comfortable closed shoes and open shoes
  • Headlamp
  • Large luggage backpack (or bag, or small suitcase)
  • Small backpack for personal belongings and photo equipment
  • Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, cap)
  • Sand protection: glasses, mask (at your discretion)
  • Personal hygiene items (toilet paper, towel, wet wipes, lipstick etc.)
  • Personal first aid kit (painkillers, disinfectants, antibiotics, your own medication)
  • Photo and video camera
KEY FEATURES
The objective of the expeditionary journey is to acquaint participants with the cultural peculiarities of the local inhabitants – the Berbers, who make up 85% of the country's population. This will be achieved through an exploration of their architecture, various traditional arts, music, costume, cuisine, and the study of their daily life customs.

During the journey, you will:

  • Visit 4 former imperial capitals of the country and learn the history of their development.
  • Visit the Academy of Traditional Arts, the only educational institution in the country providing higher professional education in this field. You will learn about the efforts undertaken by the Moroccan state to preserve its historical and cultural heritage.
  • Discuss the symbolism of Berber art, the signs and motifs embodied in artistic artifacts.
  • Become acquainted with the rammed-earth construction style of Berber kasbahs and ksour (fortified villages), using examples of towns and kasbahs in the southern pre-Saharan region.
  • Learn about the organizational system of mountain Berber settlements, their communal way of life regarding land, water, harvest, and infrastructure management within the communities.
  • Discover the ancient Berber method of extracting fresh water from the High Atlas Mountains (via the *khettara* irrigation system).
  • Visit a family of desert nomad Berbers and learn about their way of life.
  • Experience traditional markets and ancient Berber/Moroccan crafts including mosaic, ceramic, leather, wood, textile, dyeing, and metalwork production, some of which were influenced by Muslim and Jewish refugees from Spanish Andalusia.
  • Participate in your own hands-on masterclass to create traditional zellij mosaic (considered a "male" art form) and ceramics.
  • Gain a detailed understanding of the "feminine" types of traditional Moroccan art – carpet weaving and pottery produced by women.
  • Learn about the national costumes of Berbers from the north, central, and southern parts of Morocco.
  • Take part in Berber musical ceremonies (Aissawa, Gnawa, Ahwach), each reflecting the history of the country's formation, its people, and religious motifs. You will gain an overview of Morocco's main musical genres and their instruments.
  • Go on a 4x4 rally across sandy dunes, ride camels over the sands, and go horseback riding in the rocky Black Sahara desert.
  • Climb the Sacred Berber Mountain and make a wish.
  • See the 2000-year-old Roman historical heritage of Morocco and its exquisitely preserved mosaics featuring heroes of ancient mythology (at Volubilis).
  • Encounter a variety of fossils of simple organisms that lived on the floor of the global ocean in the region now occupied by the Sahara, dating from 500 to 60 million years ago: trilobites, ammonites, orthoceras, dinosaur bones, teeth of ancient sharks, and imprints of ancient fish.
  • Witness Morocco's stunning natural landscapes: the ocean, mountain gorges, cool mountain rivers and lakes, cedar forests, oases, the golden sands of the Sahara, and the rocky desert landscape.
  • Sample genuine Moroccan wines from local grapes, taste amazing royal dates, strong Moroccan coffee, and sweet Moroccan mint tea.
  • Cook your own traditional Moroccan dish during a culinary masterclass.
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
  • UNIQUENESS
    We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears.
  • ADVENTURISM
    Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again.
  • SAFETY
    In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features.
  • EXPERIENCE
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