Moroccan highlights tour from Casablanca

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

Shared Local Transport: The tour uses air-conditioned private vehicles (minivans, minibuses, or small coaches) appropriate to group size. These vehicles are shared among the group (max 16 people), reducing per-person emissions compared to individual travel.

Human-Powered Transport: The itinerary includes walking-based exploration in several locations:
• Fes: A full-day guided walking tour through the medina, souks, dye pits, tanneries, and craft areas.
• Todra Gorge: A leisurely walk through palm groves and dramatic canyon landscapes.
• Chefchaouen: Independent walking through the medina and local market.
• Rabat: Guided walking tour of the Hassan Tower, Mausoleum, and Oudaya Kasbah.

Plastic Reduction: Travelers are encouraged to use Water-to-Go filter bottles, which eliminate the need for single-use plastic bottles. These bottles filter water from any non-salt source and are promoted with a discount code.

Energy and Water Conservation: Tour notes advise travelers to switch off lights, air-conditioning, and avoid wasting water. Hotels used are 3 - 4 star and may vary in efficiency, but guests are encouraged to minimize their footprint.


ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

Animal Welfare Policies
The camel trek follows strict welfare guidelines:
• Camels are used for only one hour per day.
• They have access to food and water and roam freely.
• Only adult camels (4+ years) are used.
• One rider per camel.
• Regular veterinary checks are conducted.

Nature Encounters and Protection: The tour includes visits to natural areas such as the Todra Gorge, Ziz Valley, and Cedar Forest, where travelers can observe Barbary macaques.

Entry fees are included for UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Ait Benhaddou, contributing to their preservation.

The Berber desert camp is located on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes, offering a low-impact way to experience the Sahara.

Environmental Education: The tour includes visits to natural and cultural landmarks such as Ait Benhaddou (UNESCO site), the Atlas Mountains, and desert ecosystems, with local guides sharing insights into history, ecology, and traditional lifestyles.

Waste Reduction: Travelers are advised to remove packaging before travel and take plastic waste home where possible. Biodegradable toiletries are recommended.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

Locally Owned Accommodations:
• Hotels used are locally rated 3 - 4 star.
• The Berber desert camp is a traditional, locally operated experience with shared facilities and cultural immersion.
• Support for Local Enterprises:
• Fes: Visits to traditional craftspeople, dye pits, tanneries, pottery, and a Moroccan pharmacy.
• Chefchaouen: Exploring local markets and optional cooking class with local ingredients and techniques.
• Rabat: Guided tour of historic sites and lunch in the city.

Optional activities: Hammam spa, Majorelle Gardens, film studio visit in Ouarzazate, and dinner with entertainment in Fes, all locally operated.

Tipping Kitty: A USD 60 tipping kitty is collected at the start of the tour and administered by the guide. It supports hotel staff, local guides, camel herders, and restaurant workers, ensuring fair distribution of tips.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

Local Employment:
The tour is led by a local Moroccan guide and driver. Specialist local guides may also be used to give extra information at some of the sites visited during the tour.

Fair Pay : All porters and camel herders are employed under guidelines set by the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG).

Inclusivity: The tour is open to travelers aged 15 and up, with no upper age limit. Travelers must be moderately fit and mobile due to walking and terrain.

Accessibility: The tour involves walking in medinas, desert terrain, and mountain roads. It may not be suitable for travelers with limited mobility or certain disabilities.

Cultural Respect: Dress codes and behavior guidelines are provided to respect Moroccan customs, especially in religious sites and local communities.