Geography Study Tour
in Morocco
Embark on a transformative 4, 5 or 9-day journey through Morocco, immersing yourself in the country's diverse oceanic, fluvial, mountainous, and desert landscapes. Explore dynamic urban environments such as Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakech, each renowned for their vibrant artisanal economies and intricate, labyrinthine urban layouts. Traverse the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, the vast Sahara Desert, and encounter traditional Berber communities, expansive sand dunes, lush valleys, and dramatic gorges, each highlighting the region's varied geography and cultural heritage.
By the end of this journey, you will return with valuable knowledge, enhanced interpersonal skills, and unforgettable memories to inspire your future endeavours. Plus, gain a deeper understanding of your own social and environmental impact whilst furthering your knowledge of the Sustainable Development Goals that align with this project.
Embark on an unforgettable Moroccan adventure, beginning in the vibrant city of Casablanca, where you'll explore the majestic Hassan II Mosque and the scenic Ain Diab Corniche. Journey through the historical and cultural treasures of Rabat, Meknes, and Fes, experiencing imperial palaces, ancient ruins, and bustling medinas.
Traverse the stunning landscapes of the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, visit the enchanting desert dunes of Merzouga, and immerse yourself in the rich Berber heritage of Tinghir and Boutaghrar. Discover the cinematic allure of Ouarzazate and the iconic Ait Benhaddou, before unwinding in the picturesque coastal town of Essaouira. Conclude your trip with an authentic rural experience in Ait Zitoune, making this journey a perfect blend of geography and natural beauty.
ITINERARY OVERVIEW:
Day 1: Arrive into Casablanca
Day 2: Casablanca to Fes via Rabat and Meknes
Day 3: Explore Fes and Journey to Midelt
Day 4: Adventure in Merzouga
Day 5: From Merzouga to Boutaghrar
Day 6: Boutaghrar to Marrakech
Day 7: Coastal Essaouira
Day 8: Journey to Ait Zitoune
Day 9: Water Museum and Depart
About your adventure
You will gain invaluable opportunities for experiential learning beyond the classroom, allowing you to directly observe and engage with diverse physical landscapes. The country’s dramatic geography, from the towering Atlas Mountains to the vast Sahara Desert, brings textbook concepts to life. Witness firsthand the processes of erosion, desertification, and tectonic activity, providing concrete examples that deepen your understanding of physical geography topics like mountain formation and the challenges of desert environments.
Morocco also provides a rich context for exploring human geography. Study the interactions between people and their environment, especially in areas like the oases of the Sahara, where resource management is crucial for survival. Explore rural and urban dynamics by visiting Morocco’s traditional Amazigh (Berber) villages and its rapidly modernising cities like Marrakech and Casablanca. This exposure will help you to better understand global issues such as urbanisation, migration, and sustainable development, which are critical themes that align with the purpose of this tour.
Finally, you will develop a global perspective. Experiencing the cultural diversity of Morocco, which blends Arab, Berber, and European influences, fosters a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of different societies. It also offers insights into how geography shapes culture, economy, and political relations in a country positioned at the crossroads of Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. This hands-on experience will build your critical thinking skills, expand your worldview, and offers a holistic approach to studying Geography as a discipline.
Our trips are designed to help you develop a wide range of life skills and a deeper understanding of how you can help us work towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. Learn more ⟶
“We are committed to providing transformative experiences that empower students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives needed to make a positive impact in our ever-changing world. Join us on this unforgettable journey and become part of a community dedicated to sustainable conservation and lifelong learning.”
Geography Study Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive into Casablanca
Arrive in the beautiful city of Casablanca. Religion is central to Moroccan life and is reflected in the country's mosques, festivals, prayers, and traditions. You will experience this first-hand through a visit to the famous Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco and the third largest mosque in the world, before settling into your accommodation and getting a good night’s rest ahead of a jam-packed week of geographical wonders!
Meals: D
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2
Casablanca to Fes via Rabat
Leave Casablanca for Rabat, the nation's capital. Moroccan architecture reflects the country’s diverse geography and long history, marked by successive waves of settlers through both migration and military conquest.
As you head towards Rabat, via the Royale Palace, you will visit the Hassan Tower, the magnificent mausoleum of Mohammed V and the Kasbah of the Oudaias enjoying its dreamlike Andalusian Garden. Artisan crafts also contribute to Morocco’s unique sense of place through distinctive colours, shapes, and patterns. As you continue your journey to the imperial city of Fes, you will stop off at a pottery cooperative to see the work of the incredible artisans for yourself.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 3
Explore Fes and Journey to Midelt
Nestled between the Rif and Middle Atlas Mountains in northern Morocco, Fez is known as the cultural, spiritual, and intellectual heart of the country. Its Medina (recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981 for its remarkable architecture and heritage) offers a maze of sensory experiences.
During your visit, you'll be immersed in its bustling economic activity, meeting local traders, and witnessing the renowned Chouara Tannery. As you journey on through the dramatic landscapes of the Middle Atlas look out for the wild macaques and the magnificent cedar forest before finally arriving in Midelt, also known as Apple City, thanks to the nearby Moulouya River and its surrounding fruit orchards.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 4
Adventure in Merzouga
Leaving Midelt behind you will continue up through the High Atlas Mountains via the Gorge du Ziz oasis to Er Rachidia and the Ziz Valley dotted with palm trees, fortified villages, and Berber farming communities. This journey is a physical geographer's dream where the ever-changing landscape will have you glued to your window until you arrive at Erfoud, known for its precious and unique fossils, dating back to 500 million years ago when the Sahara Desert was under water.
You will then continue through the arid desert plains that lead to Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes where you will explore breathtaking sceneries and the incredible sensation of being surrounded by the endless silent desert. Finally, enjoy a relaxing evening under the stars.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Tent
Day 5
From Merzouga to Boutaghrar
Wake up early and catch the mesmerising sunrise before heading towards Tinejdad to visit the Oasis Berber Museum of Khorbat. Look out for roadside desertification management in place along the way! Have tea inside the Kasbah before continuing towards the marvellous valley of Tinghir and Todra Gorge, one of the most beautiful valleys in southern Morocco; a lush green oasis running along a deep valley. Walk in palm groves and discover the dramatic rocky gorge as you follow the road of a Thousand Kasbahs, where each oasis town boasts its own distinctive character. Reach Dades, a popular destination due to its unique aeolian rock formations with vibrant red and orange hues. You will end your day in Boutaghrar village where you will spend the night.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 6
Boutaghrar to Marrakech
Meet with the locals and learn more about the Amazigh (Berber) lifestyle. Follow the road to the beautiful Valley of Roses - famous for its harvesting and production of the Damask Rose - then continue to Ouarzazate, also known as the ‘Hollywood of Morocco’ due to its striking mixture of nature and ancient architecture. It’s also one of the most popular sites for film directors around the world. Visit the famous cinema studios and the UNESCO world heritage site Ait Benhaddou - a well-preserved Ksar, which has been used as a backdrop for many historical films, including Lawrence of Arabia, The Last Temptation of Christ, and Gladiator. Continue your journey through the High Atlas Mountains via the highest mountain pass in Morocco, Tizi N’ Tichka, at 2260m, travelling through some spectacular scenery on the way to Marrakech.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 7
Visit Essaouira
After an active few days, you’ll head to the Atlantic coast to Essaouira, one of the most picturesque towns in Morocco. This colourful coastal fishing town is known for its quaint and white-washed walls and relaxed atmosphere. Since its foundation, it has been a major international trading seaport, linking Morocco and its Saharan hinterland with Europe and the rest of the world. Fishermen bring in the daily catch, perfect for a fresh seafood meal. Here, there will be the opportunity to learn to surf and take a stroll along the sandy beach.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 8
Journey to Ait Zitoune
Wake up to the sound of crashing waves and the smell of salty air before heading off to Ait Zitoune via the Dam of Lalla Takerkoust, built in the time of the French protectorate. This dam provides Marrakech and the surrounding area with electricity and water. The second stop will be at Amezmiz town where you can walk around the bustling market. In the afternoon, take a guided walk around Ait Zitoun. Get a glimpse into traditional Moroccan life by exploring terraced fields, learning about local agriculture practices, and interacting with farmers. A visit to an olive oil cooperative provides insight into the production process. The day concludes with a return to Marrakech.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 9
Water Museum and Depart
On your final day, head to the Museum Mohammed VI for the Water Civilization which focuses on the history of Morocco's hydraulic engineering. Finally, transfer to Marrakech airport, concluding your unforgettable Moroccan adventure.
Meals: B
What’s included
NOTE:
Flights will be secured once final numbers have been confirmed, with options presented for direct and non-direct routes. Personal insurance, visas, vaccinations, personal expenditures, tips for leaders, guides and drivers and any other services not listed above are not included.
Important notes
Once you’ve booked your project you will be sent a kit list specifically for your trip. You will also receive further information about the adventure itself and the daily activities as well as further detail about what you can expect to learn. This includes your pre-departure conservation and sustainability workshops, as well as your impact surveys and reports. If you have any questions about the trip please get in touch. If you have any questions about all Flooglebinder educational adventures please take a look at our FAQs page.
VACCINATIONS
For this particular trip, please see details below.
Please check with your local GP to find out which vaccinations you require for any adventure that you decide to book. These are a guide; a full consultation is necessary to establish individual risk and suitability of vaccines. There may be instances where more than one appointment is required to assess whether a vaccine can be offered.
Recommended vaccinations:
Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A
Vaccinations to be considered:
Hepatitis B, Polio, Rabies, Tuberculosis (TB)
INSURANCE
Please check if your school/college provides insurance and if not we will require your policy number and details 8 weeks before departure. Flooglebinder has public liability cover of £5million but participants must arrange their own travel insurance for all other levels of cover (e.g. cancellation, curtailment, loss of personal belongings etc.). Please feel free to contact us for any advice or recommendation.
Your safety is our number one priority on all of our educational adventures. All of your finances are protected through our Financial Failure Insurance and each programme adheres to British Standards (BS8848). If you have any questions about our safety and security measures, please do get in touch.
See what life is like on the project…
