Morocco - Marrakech Short Break

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from OR of North Shore City on 13/11/2024

This horse riding holiday is available all year round and can be extended for as many days as wanted, or guests may wish to add days in Marrakech. Ask a Unicorn travel advisor for recommendations and assistance.

Riding is available all year round and is suitable for all levels of rider. The trails follow paths in the area that allow for steady riding to enjoy the views, or faster riding for more experienced riders. Approximately four hours riding per day is included, with either two hours of riding in the morning and afternoon, or a four hour ride and picnic lunch out.

Non-riders and other activities:
There are plenty of other activities available, including hiking, climbing, archery and mountain biking. There is a pool on site, and of course, when not busy riding or enjoying other activities, guests are welcome to simply relax and enjoy the beautiful views!

There is plenty to do on this holiday besides horse riding, from adreneline fuelled and cultural activites to craft and traditional Berber activities there will be something for everyone! All activities are supervised and safety is paramount.

Zip wire - Intrepid visitors will discover an outstanding course fitted with zip wires, a monkey bridge and a suspension bridge. Once attached to the wire, there is no turning back and the wonderful landscape flashes by above pine trees. This is a unique feeling of freedom.
Accro Park - experience an adventure assault courses through the tree-tops! Suitable for children and adults alike
Mountain biking - in the Atlas Mountains the beauty of silence and wild nature will give bikers unforgettable memories due to an infinite feeling of sharing and respect. 
Hiking - there are various guided walking trips to join.
Climbing - start with an introductory climbing course at the Amanar rock. Instructors will guide and fully belay you on a 10m (33ft) high rock face that overlooks the Terres d’Amanar Canyon. The most daring guests can travel back to the lodge using the estate ‘s longest zip wire (320m/1,050ft in length and 110m/360ft in height). 
Archery - try your hand at this sport which epitomizes precision and quick achievement whilst also learning new skills.
Disc Golf - A developing sport played with frizbees, disc-golf is a playful and outdoor sport for all. It is an ecological activity where players must obey the rules of the game and respect for the environment and each other.
Craft Workshops - Share with your heart and eyes. Stay for a while in the craftsmen’s village, meet with them, share their history, expertise and wealth. 
Children's Play Park - this is a playground fully dedicated to children over 4 years old. Managed by our supervisors, the children will play numerous activities such as Accro Park Junior, trampolines, swings and slides while the older ones can enjoy the BMX course. 

Swimming, relaxing and reading - take your time and live as you please. You can choose to do nothing, nap by the “Tintar” pool or play parlour games and table tennis while admiring the panoramic views of the villages and the High Atlas Mountains. The library at the lodge has a significant importance and presents many different books, music and films on the Berber culture and life in the Atlas.

TRANSFER
Transfers from Marrakesh are included in the trip, but can also be arranged from Ouarzazate for those wanting to extend their holiday after a desert tour. Transfer costs on request payable on site

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

The horses used for this ride are Arab Barb crosses, ideal for the climate and terrain. They are generally 14.2-15.3hh. Some of the herd are stallions as it is customary not to castrate riding horses. The stallions all have individual characters and are well schooled, of good temperament and no more difficult to handle than normal riding horses.

There are also Arab Barb geldings available to ride; these horses are more suited to novice riders and children. The tack is English saddles, snaffle bridles. Saddle bags are provided. Time is spent on the first day to match you to your horse.

The riding can be at all paces, if wanted, once everyone is comfortable with their horses. Experienced riders will be separated from novice and beginner riders. The terrain varies from vast open desert like plains to rocky riverbeds, rolling hills and forests. There are some rocky steep areas which can be avoided if you are not comfortable with this. The views are stunning and every day brings new delights.

All abilities are catered for on this ride. Experienced riders who are happy and balanced at all paces when controlling a horse in open spaces will be allowed to ride the stallions. Less experienced riders, and children, will ride the geldings and quieter horses. Your guide will be able to match you to the right horse.

Experience over rough terrain may be beneficial but not essential as the horses are very sure-footed.

Weight limit: 15 stone (95 kg)

The weight limit for this ride is 210 lb/95 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

There are 2 accommodation type options with this holiday; either the Eco-Lodges or the Tented Nature Village.

The Eco-Lodges have been built with due respect to traditional Moroccan buildings and to the ancient techniques of Berber craftsmen. Set on a slope overlooking a large pool, the lodges offer ideal accommodation for families, friends and couples alike. There are 18 single bedroom lodges (64 sqm) and 8 double bedroom lodges (75 sqm), all decorated in rustic Berber style with various artefacts and handmade furniture.

The single lodges have a bedroom, large sofa/day bed in the lounge area, bathroom, separate toilet and private terrace.

The double lodges comprise of 2 bedrooms, a large sofa/day bed in the lounge area, 2 bathrooms and a private terrace.

The bathrooms in all lodges have rainwater showers but no baths. Fans are placed in the rooms in the summertime as there is no air conditioning and there is heating for winter. Lodges also come equipped with a telephone, welcome products, a hairdryer, complimentary safe and a kettle. There are no TV's in the lodges. 2 lodges have disabled access.

The private gated terraces are fitted with deckchairs and aromatic plants alongside a beautiful view over the villages, mountains and the city of Marrakesh. The gates make the terraces ideal for small children.

The lodges are approximately 700m (10 mins) away from the stables. The reception desk at the main lodge is open 24 hours and staff speak English, Arabic, Berber, French and Spanish.

For all residents (lodges and tented village) there is complimentary Wi-Fi as well as a comfortable bar, several lounges and a library area; perfect for relaxing in after a days' activities! One of the lodges' unique features is the wide range of places to relax, be it under the sun or in the shade drinking mint tea and chatting on the terrace, covered patio or living room. Outside there is also the 'Tintar' swimming pool, perfect for relaxing by or for taking a dip.

The Tented Nature Village, which is 200m away from the lodges, comprises of 32 semi-permanent tents which are made from earth and canvas bedouin style.

They have 1 bedroom and a lounge area and are decorated beautifully with local decor. The bathroom facilities are shared: there are 2 bathrooms blocks with 14 showers and 10 toilets.

All tents have welcome products, a power supply of 220v and a private terrace area with deckchairs and stunning views. The tents are approximately 250m (5 mins) away from the stables. The reception area at the Nature Village is also manned 24 hours a day but there is no Wi-Fi available.

There are 3 different restaurant options:

The Farm restaurant - located at the foot of the estate’s rose garden, this open-air restaurant under net or Khaïma tent will provide guests with hearty breakfasts and friendly dinners. Guests can then spend the hours by the traditional camp fire while looking at the stars. There is an unsupervised pool available.

Tintar Restaurant - this restaurant, with its breathtaking panoramic views, is open for lunch and offers various facilities such as terraces, tents and the lunch room. Enjoy unrestricted views over the Douars, the valley and the Atlas Mountains. The pool here is supervised by a lifeguard. The Tintar restaurant is 250m from the lodges.

Village Nature Restaurant - facing the pristine 247,000 acres of the Toubkal National Park’s forests, this restaurant invites lodging tent guests to a gourmet breakfasts, and to taste traditional Berber meals at night time. Enjoy eating by the comfy fireplace or on the terrace with panoramic views.

Meals: The food on the estate is thoughtfully prepared to give guests a taste of Morocco and include the European diet. Remember the language here is French and the French love their food and this is excellent!

Breakfast is simple continental buffet style consisting of eggs, Berber pancakes, homemade breads and freshly squeezed juices.

Lunches consist of various meat skewers, homemade breads, olives and salads.

Dinner will include traditional Moroccan fare served buffet style: slightly spicy local food such as couscous and rice dishes and various meat tagines. Traditional Berber mint tea is a really refreshing and welcome treat.

All special diets can be catered for. Juice, bottles of water and ice-creams are available throughout the day from waiting staff or the small cafe where the outdoor activities are organised. All extras can be charged to the room so there is no need to carry cash around. Alcohol is available to purchase on-site or guests are welcome to bring their own.

Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip. NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months on your date of entry to Morocco. When entering the country, make sure your passport is stamped. Some tourists have experienced difficulties leaving the country because their passport bears no entry stamp. Before travelling, make sure your passport isn’t damaged. Some travellers have been refused entry when travelling on damaged passports. Morocco is a Muslim country which follows Islamic laws and customs. You should respect these at all times. Passport and Visa requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/morocco In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Morocco.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/morocco

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions

The days are warm and the nights chilly. There is also a considerably different climate in the mountain to the desert. A guide is given below but these temperatures are averages and snow is not unheard of! Marrakesh is on average 5C warmer than the mountains.

COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

You should always bring any regular prescription drugs you may need with you, and spare, just in case.

Morocco has a poor road safety record. Please take care when travelling on roads.

Henna tattoos are common in Morocco. If considering a henna tattoo be aware that some henna paste contain the chemical para-phenylenediamine (PPD) which can cause a painful allergic reaction including swelling and an itchy rash in some people.

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 150 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in Morocco and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.

Sunscreen, any personal medication, insect repellent.

Although there are no compulsory vaccinations it is recommended you see your local doctor for up to date information.

Malaria has been known to occur in the northern coastal areas in Morocco at certain times of year if you are also travelling there.

Water must be purified or boiled if not using mineral water. Mineral water is widely available for purchase at about 40-60p per litre. If not buying mineral water you should bring water purification tablets or drops with you. We recommend Micropur tablets which are tasteless.

A first aid kit is carried on all rides but we would suggest basic travellers medicines such as Dioralyte, Immodium and any other routine medication you may require.

We do advise taking plenty of sunscreen, sunburm is common at high altitudes and often not detected early due to cooler mountain temperatures.

In Morocco the supply voltage is 220V. If the appliance is a single voltage rated appliance, it will need to operate at the same voltage as the supply voltage of the country i.e. 220V. If this is not the case it should be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly.

If using a GoPro please ensure you have the permission of the group to be filmed.

- Riding Helmet - we strongly recommend that you wear a properly fitted riding helmet of the current standard which is PAS015 or BSEN1384 (One can be provided, but we recommend you bring your own)
- Gloves
- Jodhpurs - jodhpurs, breeches or other comfortable trousers (jeans may rub and can also be quite hot)
- Hat or beret and a buff bandana (sometimes, especially when it is very dry, horses can kick up a lot of dust during the rides)
- Riding Boots - it is important to have correct shoes or boots for horse riding. Jodhpur or ankle boots with a rubber sole are recommended but sturdy shoes with a small heel are acceptable (such as walking boots) (not too wide for the stirrups)
- Half Chaps - these are great when worn with ankle boots and help prevent the stirrup leathers rubbing against your legs
- T-shirts and shorts
- Long sleeved shirts
- Informal wear for evenings
- Light wind breaker or light fleece for evenings
- All terrain sandals
- Spare set of shoes
- Sunglasses
- Swimwear
- Lip balm with sunscreen
- Sunscreen
- Personal Items - toiletries, any medicines you require and please be sure to take insect repellent
- Refillable Water Bottle - it's very important to drink a lot of water when it's hot, especially when doing physical activities
- Camera, spare Batteries/Chargers - an absolute must! It is also a good idea to take a camera case you can strap around your waist or onto a belt for whilst you are riding
- Binoculars
- Plastic bags for wet clothing
- Wet wipes
- Copy of your passport

Items provided
- Saddle bags
- Riding Helmet

This programme is available all year around with any day arrival.

2024 Low Season: 3 Nov - 15 Dec
2024 Mid Season: 22 Dec
2025: Available year round 5 January - 21 December (Sunday arrival)
2025: Low Season: 5 Jan - 8 Feb; 1 - 7 Jun; 15 Jun - 12 July; 30 Nov - 20 Dec
2025: Mid Season: 9 Feb - 29 Mar; 11 - 24 May; 8 Jun - 14 Jun; 13 Jul - 11 Oct; 2 - 29 Nov
2025: High Season: 29 Dec 24 - 4 Jan; 30 Mar - 5 May; 25 May - 31 May; 12 Oct - 1 Nov; 21 Dec - 5 Jan 26

Prices based on 4+ riders. Supplement valid when there are 2 or 3 riders Supplement for 24, 31 Dec - please ask your Travel Advisor if available

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A good guide book is invaluable but in addition:

• The Conquest of Morocco by Douglas Porch examines the takeover of Morocco by Paris, leading to the establishment of the protectorate.


• Peter Mayne's highly readable A Year in Marrakesh is his account of time spent living among the people of the city and observations on their lives.


• Their Heads Are Green is an intriguing collection of short stories about North Africa by the famous Tangier resident Paul Bowles (author of Sheltering Sky).


• The House of Si Abdallah: the oral history of a Moroccan family, by Henry Munson Jr, is a unique insight into the daily life and thoughts of Moroccans, mainly through the eyes of a traditional pedlar in Tangier.


• A fascinating look at the lives of Moroccan women is Leonora Peet's Women of Marrakesh. Over 40 years (1930-70) Peets got about as close as a non-Muslim can to the lives of local women.


• Iain Finlayson's Tangier: city of the dream is an intriguing look at some of the western literati who found a new home in Morocco at one time or another.


• For the equestrian traveller who would like to see what is possible on horseback visit www.thelongridersguild.com also a fantastic place to acquire your equestrian travel books is www.horsetravelbooks.com

This holiday can also cater for large groups such as businesses looking for team-building holidays and school bookings. Please enquire for more details.

In the valley the inhabitants mostly speak the Berber language, but a few speak French. Most staff on-site speak Berber, Arabic, French, English and Spanish. Islam is the predominant religion and it is therefore necessary to dress and behave appropriately in the lodge as well as in the surrounding areas, as the teams comprises of locals villagers.

What is an ecolodge? It is a type of lodging that adheres to the precepts of ecotourism:
* minimisation of the structure’s impact on the environment
* participates in protecting the environment
* develops projects to improve the well being of local populations
* participates in sensitising visitors and locals for preserving the environment and culture and develops cross-cultural exchanges.

At the heart of sustainable development eco-lodge project has been designed by, and in partnership with, the locals people:

The staff on-site are mainly locals, especially dwellers from the surrounding villages. Thanks to the project, 150 families are living in the vicinity, which means that they haven’t left. They lay much emphasis on partnerships with local co-operatives (such as vegetables, craft products and building raw materials) and they strongly encourage participative management as a way for employees to develop and keep on passing on their expertise to the next, as well as communicate to a diversity of guests on an international level.

There is also a strict environmental policy:
- Staff training and environmental awareness
- Using local building techniques (loam walls, compressed earth bricks)
- Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
- Water and electricity savings
- Customer awareness of the role they can play in preserving the environment

The Kingdom of Morocco is on the north-west corner of Africa. Morocco has a history as an independent nation state stretching back to the 9th century interrupted only by the brief interlude of the Protectorate (1912-1956) when the country was divided into French and Spanish zones.

Morocco's cities are bustling and full of life, usually centering around the market place. The muslim country is deeply spiritual and this mysticism is echoed in the dazzling art work found throughout. The power of the evil eye is a potent force for many Moroccans. One way of warding it off is to show the open palm of the hand, fingers pointing upwards. This 'hand of Fatima' (the Prophet's daughter) can frequently be spotted on stickers, painted on doors or as jewellery.

Morocco is on GMT. The international dialling code for Morocco is 212 and they use the metric weights and measures system, so kilometres and kilograms instead of miles and pounds. There is approximately 1.6 kilometres in a mile and 2.2 pounds in a kilogram. They are on GMT.