Epic Morocco
11 Days Starting in Casablanca, Morocco and ending in Marrakesh, Morocco
Visiting: Casablanca, Mosque Hassan 2, Chefchaouen, Fes, Conservation du site Archeologique de Volubilis, Merzouga Desert, Awlad-An-Nama, Todra River, Dadès Gorges, Marrakesh, Aït Benhaddou
Tour operator:
Tour code:
MOR
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 16
Age range:
25-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Journey deep into the Sahara, explore the majestic kasbah of Ait-Ben-Haddou, and stargaze with an expert astrologer on this 11-day Moroccan adventure. You’ll experience local culture and marvel at the architectural wonders of Casablanca and Fez. Away from the usual tourist trail, you’ll explore more remote places such as the blue city of Chefchaouen and the Todra Gorge, deep in the High Atlas mountains. Foodie highlights range from authentic Berber meals in the desert to contemporary dishes at a trendy rooftop venue in Marrakech. All of our trips are flightless in destination, with 100% of all carbon emissions offset. It's just part of how we see the world while being good to it.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive In Casablanca
Location: Casablanca
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Gray Boutique Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Touch down in Casablanca, the coastal city where your Moroccan journey begins. You’ll be picked up and taken to your hotel, just a 10-minute walk from the Old Medina. Gather in the lobby for a welcome meeting at 6pm with your Local Insider, who will accompany the group throughout the trip. It’s then time to head into the city centre for dinner in an authentic riad (a traditional Moroccan house centered around an inner courtyard) – a perfect opportunity to break the ice and discuss the days ahead with your fellow travellers.
Activities included:
Airport transfer
Welcome dinner
Day 2 : Stroll Through The Photogenic Streets Of Chefchaouen
Location: Mosque Hassan 2, Chefchaouen
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Dar Echchaouen Maison d'Hôtes & Riad
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, head straight to the Hassan II Mosque, the second-largest functioning mosque in Africa, which is dramatically situated on a rocky outcrop jutting into the Atlantic Ocean. Its 210m (690ft) high minaret, completed in 1993, is the second-tallest in the world. After exploring the complex, leave Casablanca behind and head north to the enchanting city of Chefchaouen, which lies beneath the craggy peaks of the Rif mountains. Take a walking tour through the atmospheric cobblestone alleyways and admire the beautifully preserved 15th-century buildings painted in shades of blue.
Activities included:
Hassan II Mosque visit
Chefchaouen walking tour
Day 3 : Explore The Roman Ruins Of Volubilis And Eat With A Local Family
Location: Fes, Conservation du site Archeologique de Volubilis
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Palais Houyam
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, your journey continues south to the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, built around 300BCE on a fertile plain surrounded by wheat fields. Formerly the capital of the Berber kingdom of Mauretania, it gained Unesco World Heritage status in 1997 and is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Morocco today, replete with marble columns, intricate mosaics and plinths bearing Latin inscriptions. After you’ve finished exploring, head to Fez, considered by many to be the cultural and spiritual capital of Morocco. Here, you’ll join a local family for a home-cooked dinner in the old medina district and enjoy a unique storytelling experience.
Activities included:
Volubilis guided tour
Home-cooked meal and storytelling with a local family
Day 4 : Soak Up The Atmosphere Of Fez Medina
Location: Fes
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Palais Houyam
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Embrace the eclectic mix of colours, sounds and aromas as you wander through Fez Medina – the sprawling, walled centre of the city. Its labyrinthine streets are lined with souks selling everything from street food and spices to handwoven textiles and homewares, while architectural highlights include the Bou Inania Madrasa with a green-tiled minaret, the ornate Bab Bou Jeloud gate and the Nejjarine Fondouk, which houses a woodwork museum. End the tour by tucking into lunch at a traditional restaurant in the Medina, before spending the rest of the day at leisure.
Activities included:
Fez Medina walking tour
Nejjarine Fondouk visit
Bou Inania Madrasa visit
Day 5 : Venture Deep Into The Sahara
Location: Merzouga Desert
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Riad Chebbi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rise and shine – it’s time to leave the city bustle as you head into the pristine wilderness of the Sahara. After breakfast, you’ll journey to the far south of Morocco, eventually arriving in the tiny desert village of Merzouga, close to the Algerian border. It’s the gateway to the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes, which reach 150m (490ft) high and cover a barren, golden expanse of 28km (17mi) from north to south. You’ll stay overnight in a luxury riad – an idyllic spot to unwind, tune into nature and take in sublime sunset views.
Activities included:
Merzouga desert visit
Day 6 : Visit A Gnawa Village And Dine Berber Style Under The Stars
Location: Awlad-An-Nama, Merzouga Desert
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Chebbi Luxury Desert Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel by 4x4 to a remote village where you’ll learn about the culture of the Gnawa people who originated from sub-Saharan Africa, and are renowned for their spiritual music and unique dancing. For lunch, tuck into medfouna, a southern Moroccan speciality that’s similar to a stuffed pizza but without cheese. Brace yourself for a bumpy ride as you continue across the dunes to the desert camp you’ll call home for the night. Expect lots of mint tea, songs around a campfire and hearty Berber food. Come nightfall, enjoy a wine-tasting session and gaze in awe at the starry sky through a telescope, guided by an expert astronomer.
Activities included:
Gnawa village visit
Wine tasting
Astronomy experience
Day 7 : Go Camel Riding At Sunrise And Explore The Todra Gorge
Location: Todra River
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Bahammou
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
No visit to the Sahara is complete without experiencing the most traditional mode of desert transport: camel riding. Saddle up first thing in the morning, taking in the gorgeous sunrise before swapping the desert for the High Atlas mountains as you head north to the Todra Gorge. Prepare to be dazzled – this otherworldly, rust-coloured expanse of steep-sided canyons ranks among the most spectacular scenery in Morocco. You’ll arrive at your cosy, mountainside accommodation in time to sip cocktails while watching the sunset paint the sky with a pinky-tangerine glow.
Activities included:
Sunrise camel ride
Todra Gorge visit
Sunset cocktails
Day 8 : Hike Through The Dades Gorges And Join A Local Family For Lunch
Location: Dadès Gorges
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Bahammou
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Over many centuries, the Dades River, which flows for 350km (220mi) from the High Atlas mountains to the Sahara, has carved dramatic gorges and canyons into the rugged interior of the country. Today, you’ll set off on a guided hike through this epic landscape and gain a fascinating glimpse into life in this part of rural Morocco. Eventually, after traversing farmland and riverine forest, you’ll arrive at a series of striking rock formations, aptly named the Monkey Fingers due to their peculiar shape. A well-earned lunch at a local guesthouse awaits.
Activities included:
Dades Gorges hike
Day 9 : Explore Kasbah Ait-Ben-Haddou And Enjoy A Street Food Tour Of Marrakech
Location: Marrakesh, Aït Benhaddou
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: 2Ciels Luxury Boutique Hôtel & Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Of all the kasbahs dotted around Morocco, Ait-Ben-Haddou is arguably the most impressive. Feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you explore this Unesco World Heritage site, which you may well recognise from Game of Thrones (2011-2019) and Gladiator (2000). Stop by a tea house for a first-quenching mint tea and home-baked Moroccan pastry before hitting the road to Marrakech. Expect a sensory feast as you join an evening street food tour. Dishes you can try include tagine and couscous, doughy pastries, sheep’s head and snail soup.
Activities included:
Kasbah Ait-Ben-Haddou visit
Tea at a local tea house
Marrakech Street Food Tour
Day 10 : Unlock The Secrets Of Moroccan Cuisine In A Cooking Class
Location: Marrakesh
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: 2Ciels Luxury Boutique Hôtel & Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Now familiar with Moroccan food, you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to make it for yourself. After discovering the core techniques and flavour combinations used in Moroccan cuisine, enjoy the fruits of your labour for lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the city at leisure or treat yourself to a soothing massage at the hotel spa. Reconvene for a farewell group dinner at L’mida restaurant and embrace an innovative, modern twist on classic Moroccan dishes. The candlelit roof terrace, overlooking the medina, is the perfect spot to conclude your epic Morocco trip.
Activities included:
Cooking class
Farewell dinner
Optional activities:
Spa visit
Day 11 : Depart From Marrakech
Location: Marrakesh
Meals Included: Breakfast
After one last breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your new friends as your Moroccan adventure comes to an end. Check out of the hotel and make your way to the airport to catch your flight home – or extend your stay and explore what else Morocco has to offer.
Optional activities:
Airport transfer
What's Included
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Private and local transport
Arrival Airport Transfer
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Meals described in the itinerary
10 breakfasts, four lunches, seven dinners
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Accommodation
Five nights traditional riad accommodation One night luxury riad accommodation One night desert camp accommodation One night premium hotel accommodation Two nights boutique hotel accommodation
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Local Insider
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Hassan II Mosque visit
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Chefchaouen walking tour
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Volubilis guided tour
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Storytelling with a local family
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Fez Medina walking tour
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Bou Inania Madrasa visit
What's Not Included
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Insurance
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Tipping and Gratuities
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Departure airport transfer
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Resort Taxes (if applicable)
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Visas (If required)
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Flights to and from the destination
Accommodation
Gray Boutique Hotel Casablanca
This stylish gem of a hotel is perfectly positioned for city centre exploration. You're just 10 minutes from the old Medina, and about the same from the Corniche with its parks, shops and sparkling Atlantic views. Inside, decor feels high-end and design-led, with a warm organic colour palette and elegant furnishings.
Dar Echchaouen Maison d'Hôtes & Riad
Experience life in an opulent Moroccan riad overlooking the resplendent blue houses of Chefchaouen. Wood-beamed ceilings, candlelit terraces and communal lounges with roaring fires create a warm, soothing ambience at this atmospheric retreat. The outdoor pool, with mountain views, is the perfect place to relax and cool off.
Palais Houyam
This traditional riad is an oasis of tranquility, tucked away from the bustling streets of Fez Medina. Zellige-tile floors, traditional four-poster beds, and handcrafted furnishings made by local artisans create an authentic vibe in every room. Take a trip to the spa and hammam (bath house) to unwind and recharge.
Riad Chebbi
ÂWelcome to a spectacular desert paradise. Located in the middle of the dunes, the Riad Chebbi is an ideal choice for those who want to explore the Sahara desert of Morocco and more specifically the desert of Merzouga. This oasis of tranquility combines rustic charm, hospitality and luxury to bring to life an authentic desert experience.
Chebbi Luxury Desert Camp
Nestled in the heart of the desert, far from the city lights, our oasis of serenity offers a breathtaking celestial spectacle. Picture yourself lying beneath a sparkling sky, each star shimmering like a jewel in the boundless darkness. Constellations unfold above you, creating a magical tableau that inspires wonder and escape. Whether you’re lounging by the campfire or stargazing from the comfort of your luxurious tent, every moment spent under this starry sky is an unforgettable experience, an invitation to dream and contemplate the infinite beauty of the universe.
Riad Bahammou
Terracotta walls blend in with the ochre landscape at the traditional Riad Bahammou, in the Dades Gorge valley of the High Atlas. Tuck into Moroccan fare at the restaurant before finishing your day with a nightcap in the onsite bar. The pool is the perfect place to cool off after a day of exploring and the rooms are traditionally decorated and comfortable enough for all to enjoy. This is a magical place and we're sure you'll enjoy your stay.
2Ciels Luxury Boutique Hôtel & Spa
A rooftop bar and restaurant, an illuminated outdoor pool and a traditional hammam are a handful of the perks at this elegant hotel in the trendy Gueliz neighbourhood of Marrakech. All rooms have private balconies, Egyptian cotton bed sheets and complementary luxury toiletries.
Gray Boutique Hotel Casablanca
This stylish gem of a hotel is perfectly positioned for city centre exploration. You're just 10 minutes from the old Medina, and about the same from the Corniche with its parks, shops and sparkling Atlantic views. Inside, decor feels high-end and design-led, with a warm organic colour palette and elegant furnishings.
Dar Echchaouen Maison d'Hôtes & Riad
Experience life in an opulent Moroccan riad overlooking the resplendent blue houses of Chefchaouen. Wood-beamed ceilings, candlelit terraces and communal lounges with roaring fires create a warm, soothing ambience at this atmospheric retreat. The outdoor pool, with mountain views, is the perfect place to relax and cool off.
Palais Houyam
This traditional riad is an oasis of tranquility, tucked away from the bustling streets of Fez Medina. Zellige-tile floors, traditional four-poster beds, and handcrafted furnishings made by local artisans create an authentic vibe in every room. Take a trip to the spa and hammam (bath house) to unwind and recharge.
Riad Madu
Embrace the peace of this desert hideaway at the foot of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Highlights include an outdoor pool, lantern-lit courtyard, and living areas with tadelakt walls, handwoven rugs and plush sofas. The sunset views here are unforgettable – as is the homemade Moroccan food.
Desert Camp Jaimas Madu
Sip mint tea around a roaring fire, enjoy hearty Berber cooking and dine under the stars at this isolated desert retreat. You’re bound to sleep well in the cosy haima tents, all of which come with private bathrooms and ensuite showers. When you wake, emerge from your tent to freshly squeezed orange juice and Moroccan crepes.
Riad Bahammou
Terracotta walls blend in with the ochre landscape at the traditional Riad Bahammou, in the Dades Gorge valley of the High Atlas. Tuck into Moroccan fare at the restaurant before finishing your day with a nightcap in the onsite bar. The pool is the perfect place to cool off after a day of exploring and the rooms are traditionally decorated and comfortable enough for all to enjoy. This is a magical place and we're sure you'll enjoy your stay.
2Ciels Luxury Boutique Hôtel & Spa
A rooftop bar and restaurant, an illuminated outdoor pool and a traditional hammam are a handful of the perks at this elegant hotel in the trendy Gueliz neighbourhood of Marrakech. All rooms have private balconies, Egyptian cotton bed sheets and complementary luxury toiletries.
Please note that, while unlikely, the accommodation indicated may be subject to change (see T&C’s). On a rare occasion, alternative arrangements may be necessary – this may be due to a lack of availability at our preferred accommodation, or other reasons outside our control. We’ll do everything we can to prevent this from happening; however, in cases where it is unavoidable, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
Check out our Q&As
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What is not included in the trip?
We don’t include the following in our trips: insurance (however you must have insurance to travel on one of our trips), flights, tips for local guides, optional activities and other meals and services not mentioned in your itinerary.
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Will there always be a guide on the trip?
Absolutely yes. We pride ourselves on our expert Local Insiders - they are an integral part of what makes our trips so special. Your Local Insider will accompany you throughout the trip and is there to help and assist in any way possible as well as ensure everything works to time.
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When will I know if my trip is guaranteed?
We usually wait until we have a few travellers booked on a trip before we guarantee it will run. The latest we will guarantee a trip is 60 days ahead of departure, often it will be long before.
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What happens if I am travelling on my own?
Most accommodations on our trips are reserved on a twin share basis. Therefore, if you are travelling on your own you will be sharing a room with another Culture Trip traveller of the same sex. However, most of the time it is possible to pay a supplement for your own room. Please ask your Travel Expert for more information.
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Can I travel in my own private group?
Yes you can. Our team of Travel Experts can put together a bespoke trip to suit all group sizes in most destinations around the world. Please contact us for more details.
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What happens if I need to amend or cancel my booking?
You can change the date of your tour up to 60 days prior to departure and cancel at any time, although cancellation conditions may apply.
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What kind of luggage should I bring?
It depends on the type of trip you have booked, but we usually recommend a soft sided bag or case as they are easier to handle on a trip.
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Do I need to buy travel insurance?
Yes - all travellers must have travel insurance before they join one of our trips. You are strongly advised to take out your policy at the time of booking to protect your holiday payments in the event of cancellation.
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What is the group size?
Our maximum group size is 16, although our average group size is 10-12 people. Group travel is a great way to meet other people, and you will have the safety of travelling with a group, but you can also decide how much time you want to spend by yourself.
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Do I need to tip?
Tips are not included in the price of your trip but are entirely optional and at your discretion.
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Do I need any vaccinations?
As a tour operator we are unable to give medical advice, however we suggest you contact your doctor, a professional medical travel clinic or check out the World Health Organisation website for more details.
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How fit do I need to be to take one of your trips?
We offer a variety of different trips, most of which do not require a specific level of fitness. Some of our trips are more active, but we include details on each specific trip information page. If you are unsure please don’t hesitate to ask one of our Travel Experts.
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What kind of transport do you use on your trips?
We use a mix of public and private transport on our trips, but usually a small and comfortable minibus, so we can access more remote destinations that larger groups can’t get to.
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What visas do I need?
Depending on your passport and your destination, you may need a visa to travel on one of our trips. It is up to you to ensure you have any and all necessary visas before you travel. We recommend you check with a specialist visa agency at least 6 weeks before you travel.
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Why should I travel with Culture Trip?
We know the world's best bits – our award-winning content proves it. Now we’re using that expertise to bring you curated trips that combine thoughtful planning with authentic experiences and hand-picked accommodation. Led by Local Insiders, our trips bring together small groups of curious travellers who embrace the value of shared experiences, cultural immersion and travel that never feels rushed.
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Are flights / transport to the destination included?
No - our travellers come from all over the world so flights and / or transport to the start destination are not included.
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How much money should I bring?
This will depend on how long your trip is, your destination and how much you intend to spend on personal expenses and any meals that aren’t included. It is a good idea to check out the cost of a local lunch and dinner in your destination before you travel.
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How many meals are included?
Breakfast is included daily and then depending on your itinerary, some lunches and dinners. This is clearly indicated in the trip details or ask your Travel Expert to confirm.
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Is there any age limit on the Trips?
You must be 25 or over to travel on our trips, however there is no upper age limit. You just need a sense of adventure.
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Can I book extra nights accommodation before or after my trip?
Yes, call or email one of our Travel Experts who will be able to add accommodation to your booking.
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Are airport transfers included?
Your arrival transfer from Casablanca airport (CMN) to your hotel is included. Please ensure you provide your flight details to your Culture Trip Travel Expert at least 30 days prior to your trip departure date. Upon arrival in Casablanca, once you have collected your luggage and passed through customs into the arrivals hall, you need to head for the exit where a Culture Trip representative will be waiting outside the terminal for you. They will be holding a copy of the Culture Trip logo. If you are unable to locate our representative, please either call our emergency number or contact your Local Insider via the WhatsApp group. Please note that your departure airport transfer is not included. If you decide to extend your stay in Marrakech, or want to arrange an airport transfer either to Marrakech airport (RAK) or back to Casablanca (CMN) (at an additional cost), you can contact our Travel Experts who will be able to assist. Marrakech airport is located 7.2 kms / 4 miles from the 2Ciels Hotel, the final hotel for the trip. Journeys to the airport will take on average 15 minutes. The Local Insider or hotel reception staff will be able to assist in ordering a taxi for you if you do not have a pre-arranged transfer. Should you wish to return back to Casablanca, this journey will take approx. 2 hours and 45 minutes and is approx. 244 kms / 151 miles from Marrakech.
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I booked but cannot travel anymore. What are the amendments and cancellation options?
We understand plans can change and that’s why we offer flexible booking conditions. You can change or cancel your booking at any time up to 56 days prior to departure and receive a full refund of any funds you have already paid towards your trip.
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Do I have to make full payment at the time of booking?
You do not have to make full payment at the time of booking. We only require a small, fully refundable deposit of $100 to secure your spot on the trip. Full payment is due at the latest 56 days prior to departure.
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Do I have to take part in all the activities? Will there be free time on my trip?
The amount of free time varies per trip. Please enquire with our travel experts to get a proper understanding on the amount of free time on the trips you are interested in. You do not have to take part in all activities but we strongly encourage you to do so! We have carefully crafted each trip to show you the best of every destination, so you’d be missing out! Also taking part in activities is a great way to get to know your travel companions and make new friends. Nothing like a positive and supportive group environment to venture outside of your comfort zone and surprise yourself!
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What is a Local Insider?
We believe there’s no better way to discover a new place and a new culture than by experiencing it through the eyes and experience of a local. That’s why we only work with local guides - whom we name our Local Insiders. They know their region inside out and have a passion for sharing it with travellers. All our Local Insiders have years of experience guiding and speak English. Importantly, they like to travel the way we like it too: away from crowds, tourist traps and queues. Focussing on the true essence of a destination, teaching you all about the local culture and profusely sharing local hidden gems and insights.
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Free Date Changes
Culture Trip allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 55 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Culture Trip allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform culture trip, 55 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Culture Trip requires a minimum deposit of 300 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 55 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of culture trip charges.
Up to 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 54 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.