Quel tour opérateur pour l'Égypte partant de Bruxelles?
by Mamybell
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
J'ai lu que l'on a déjà beaucoup discuté des croisières en Egypte mais en général, cela part de France. Quel Tour.op. partant de Bruxelles me recommandez-vous ? J'ai lu que 7plus avait beaucoup de succès et cela nous tente beaucoup. Vaut-il mieux faire le Caire en fin de croisière ou au début ? Quel croisière choisir ? J'attends tous vos tuyaux avec impatience et vous en remercie.😉
Bonsoir Mamybell,
J'habitais près de la frontière Belge et je suis parti plusieurs fois avec vos voyagistes. Je suis donc parti avec SUNJETS (www.sunjets.be), JETAIR (www.jetair.be) et NECKERMANN (www.neckermann.be).
Je n'ai jamais eu aucune problème. Une seule réclamation auprès de Sunjets avec qui j'ai eu toute satisfaction, vraiment on a le sens du service en Belgique. Malheureusement je ne sais pas si ces TO fournissent ce genre de prestation.
Pour la croisière. Je suis allé faire cette croisière mais pas avec un TO Belge, mais bon, ce sont pratiquement toutes les mêmes.
Ma croisière était d'une durée de 12 jours. Atterrissage à Louxor (retard de 5 heures depuis la France, un hangar de ROISSY CDG), visite à toute vitesse le premier jour et en fin de journée Karnac illuminé. Le soir au bateau et au cours du diner, le bateau va rejoindre son nouveau lieu de visite. Le lendemain matin on est à quai. Pas de transport, les sites sont presque tous au bord du nil. Le voyage s'est déroulé comme ça jusqu'à ASSOUAN. Visite du temple de Philaé, le barrage du lac Nasser puis départ en bus avec une escorte direction ABOU SIMBEL. Visite du site et décollage vers le Caire. Hebergement à l'hotel Mariott. Visite des pyramides de Guizeh, à degrés de Saquara, musée Egyptien et bien d'autres sites. Alors faire le Caire en début ou en fin, à mon avis ça n'a aucune importance. Si vous arrivez au caire, il est fort probable qu'on vous achemine par un quelconque moyen du Caire à Louxor ou on trouve vraiment le site le plus intéressant. Après ça, ça dépend du type de croisière que vous achetez. Maintenant, si vous pouvez éviter les TO Français, vous ne vous en porterez pas plus mal. Rien n'est clair dans ce qu'ils vendent, il faut toujours ajouter (des taxes de pollution, du carburant qui fluctue et frais d'aéroport qui sont exorbitants), les voyages sont scabreux (je viens d'en faire un, l'avion n'a pas pu redécoller....6h30 de retard avec un avion de remplacement) avec horaires définis la veille ou l'avant veille du départ. Bien souvent on vous grignote une journée complète soit-disant consacrée au voyage, mais bon quand j'arrive le lundi à 23h 30 et que je pars le lundi suivant à 0h10, j'estime ne pas avoir été complètment satisfait. Ajoutez à cela qu'en France, on facture des frais de dossier (à mon avis ils sont déjà largement facturés dans le prix du voyage) on facture des pourboires (qui vont à qui ??? on en sait rien) et on impose (presque) de donner encore quelque chose à votre gentil guide. Alors bon courage si vous tentez le coup.
J'ai décidé d'être heureux car c'est bon pour la santé.
un grand merci pour toutes ces explications. Vous n'êtes pas très tendre avec vos compatriotes mais chez nous aussi il y a ce genre de problème (frais de dossier chez Neckermann). Nous partons très souvent avec Sunjets et, jusqu'à présent, rien à dire. Avec Neckermann non plus nous n'avons jamais eu de problèmes mais ils ne sont pas très spécialisés en croisières et je ne veux pas me faire avoir. Je consulte donc tous les possibilités car certains partent en Egypte via Zurich (2 heures d'attente), d'autres proposent des cabines inférieures, bref, il faut tout regarder. On m'a aussi dit que l'on scannait les bagages à l'entrée du bateau (ce qui est plutôt bien) mais que l'on confisquait les bouteilles achetées en free-tax (elles sont rendues à la fin du séjour), nous partons avec des amis et avions bien l'intention de faire "un petit plein" avant le départ. Avez-vous eu ce genre d'aventure ? Encore merci et amitiés
Bonjour,
Alors si j'ai bien compris votre allusion, vous avez l'intention de profiter de quelques boissons à prix détaxés pendant votre séjour.
Je reviens d'un voyage organisé spécialement pour la plongée et ou les plongeurs ont des bouteilles sur le dos la journée et d'autres bouteilles le soir, mais pas au même endroit.. (apéritifs plutôt très longs....)
Ils avaient probablement tous une bouteille de Pastis (bien de chez nous ce breuvage...) ou whiskies, Martini, Pinot des Charentes (venant de là, évidemment impensable de partir sans) etc etc... j'en ai vu beaucoup.
Certaines bouteilles ont été placées dans le bagage qui va en soute mais beaucoup ont été achetées à l'aéroport en "free tax". En plusieurs années que je pratique ce genre de voyage et je n'ai jamais entendu qu'une bouteille avait été confisquée. A l'arrivée à Hurghada ou Sharm il n'y aucune problème. Par contre, en France, on m'a fait jeter une bouteille d'eau achetée avant d'arrivée en zone détaxée, et j'ai racheté la même après avoir été contrôlé par les services de sécurité.
Quant aux bagages scannés avant l'entrée du bateau, lorsque j'y suis allé on ne pratiquait pas encore ce genre de chose. Il vous faudra attendre la réponse d'un autre voyageur.
Par contre méfiez vous de toutes les petites malversations du bord du Nil qui agacent, si par exemple, vous empruntez une calèche pour aller visiter un site, ne payez que lorsque vous êtes arrivés. J'ai vu au Caire des personnes qu'on transportait du bus aux pyramides en dromadaire, qui avaient payé tout le trajet avant de partir, et qu'on a débarqué 200m plus loin. Comme ça le dromadaire va vite reprendre d'autres touristes. Bon plan pour le guide du dromadaire mais amertume pour les débarqués loin du plateau de Gizeh et de ses pyramides.
Bon courage et bon voyage car ça reste une merveilleuse croisière.
J'ai décidé d'être heureux car c'est bon pour la santé.
Vous avez tout compris, effectivement, sans savoir ce que l'on paie en apéro sur le bateau, on préfère prendre ses précautions car, les vacances, ce sont les vacances et on s'éclate. Je vais maintenant me renseigner pour savoir combien de bouteilles on peut prendre mais si c'est 3 par personne comme on me l'a déjà dit, nous sommes 4 donc 4x3=12, c'est un peu beaucoup, surtout si l'on doit acheter l'eau....... Encore quelques questions : peut-on changer des euros contre de l'argent égyptien, y-a t'il des distributeurs avec accès "sécurisé", peut-on utiliser facilement la Visa ? Pour les visites, les femmes peuvent-elles être bras nus et les hommes porter des shorts ? Faut-il s'habiller "habillé" le soir ? Que peut-on faire sur le bateau le soir ? Merci pour votre gentillesse
Bonjour,
Il est difficile de répondre à vos questions. Peut-on utiliser la carte VISA, oui et non car tout dépend du lieu ou vous vous trouvez. Au Caire vous n'aurez aucune problème à trouver une banque mais à Abou Simbel ça sera probablement plus difficile et dans le désert imposible. On peut faire du change à l'aéroport et même sur le bateau (voir les taux pratiqués). Quant à l'utiliser en permanence, comme en France ou en Belgique, il ne faut pas trop y compter car peu de commerçants sont équipés. On peut changer des euros en livres Egyptiennes mais ce qu'il faut savoir c'est que lors de votre départ, s'il vous reste des livres, il vous sera impossible de les échanger contre des euros. Vous aurez le choix entre, tout dépenser rapidement, conserver l'argent pour un autre voyage ou en faire cadeau. Il n'y a aucune possibilité d'échange, même dans votre pays.
Faut-il s'habiller le soir ? tout dépend encore du type de croisière, il n'y a pas de réponse catégorique. Si votre bateau est un 5 étoiles grand luxe, vous devrez certainement vous habiller de façon plus que correcte. Pour les autres, il faut quand même se vêtir, pas question d'arriver en "caleçon ou maillot de bain et tongs" mais une chemisette, ou polo avec bermuda ou pantacourt suffisent dans la plupart des cas.
Les visites, là encore tout dépend de ce que vous visitez. A Karnac, plateau de Gizeh, le sphinx, Abou Simbel pas de problème, short, bras nus, chapeau de soleil et lunettes noires, tout va bien. Par contre si vous visitez un lieu plus "religieux" genre mosquée, par respect vous serez contraint de vous déchausser, cacher vos jambes et vos bras et pour ces dames, en cacher un peu plus. Et enfin, que fait-on le soir sur le bateau ? et bien on récupère de sa dure journée car certaines sont fatigantes. Comptez aussi sur votre TO qui vous organise des soirée à thèmes, vous danserez probablement habillé en Egyptien et vous profiterez de petits spectacles et amusements divers.
Bonne croisière.
J'ai décidé d'être heureux car c'est bon pour la santé.
Bonjour,
s'il vous reste des livres, il vous sera impossible de les échanger contre des euros.
Même avec un bordereau de change ?
Michel
s'il vous reste des livres, il vous sera impossible de les échanger contre des euros.
Même avec un bordereau de change ?
Michel
...ou alors un commerçant sera très content de vous changer ses pièces d'euros contre vos dernières livres !
Brigitte
Bonjour,
pour répondre à Tatra, je n'en sais rien car j'essaie toujours de changer ce qui m'est nécessaire et le reste d'argent je le dépense lors d'un autre voyage. Mais je compte sur l'expérience de ceux qui n'ont pas su cerner leurs besoins et qui ont essayé de changer leurs livres. En tous cas s'il est possible de le faire, c'est uniquement en Egypte, ailleurs je suis catégorique, c'est niet.
Quant à Brigitte, effectivement on peut envisager de se transformer en agent de change. Une petite histoire personnelle à propos d'un échange de pièces en euros. Hotel Akassia Swuiss resort El Quseir. Au moment du mon départ de l'hotel, un bagagiste vient frapper à ma chambre pour prendre mes bagages. Il me fait comprendre qu'il m'échangerait bien des pièces en euros contre soit un billet (échangeable dans toutes les banques contrairement aux pièces) soit en Livres. N'ayant pas de livres, et par nature méfiant, je lui propose de lui donner un billet. Il me tend ses pièces, je les compte et m'aperçois qu'il n'y avait que 6 euros. Dans son idée, je pense qu'il souhaitait que je fasse l'appoint. A mon goût trop élevé pour porter deux valises à roulettes, je lui dis qu'il manque de l'argent pour procéder à l'échange et donc, refuse gentillement. Au moment ou j'ai pris le bus, mes valises étaient restées devant ma chambre, et ça, ça énerve. Bonne journée.
Quant à Brigitte, effectivement on peut envisager de se transformer en agent de change. Une petite histoire personnelle à propos d'un échange de pièces en euros. Hotel Akassia Swuiss resort El Quseir. Au moment du mon départ de l'hotel, un bagagiste vient frapper à ma chambre pour prendre mes bagages. Il me fait comprendre qu'il m'échangerait bien des pièces en euros contre soit un billet (échangeable dans toutes les banques contrairement aux pièces) soit en Livres. N'ayant pas de livres, et par nature méfiant, je lui propose de lui donner un billet. Il me tend ses pièces, je les compte et m'aperçois qu'il n'y avait que 6 euros. Dans son idée, je pense qu'il souhaitait que je fasse l'appoint. A mon goût trop élevé pour porter deux valises à roulettes, je lui dis qu'il manque de l'argent pour procéder à l'échange et donc, refuse gentillement. Au moment ou j'ai pris le bus, mes valises étaient restées devant ma chambre, et ça, ça énerve. Bonne journée.
J'ai décidé d'être heureux car c'est bon pour la santé.
Bonjour ,
Je suis aussi d'un naturel méfiant mais je comprends que les égyptiens ne sachent rien faire de leurs pièces d'euros . Donc , anecdote pour anecdote , j'étais l'an passé aux souks d'Assouan : après 1 petit achat bien marchandé ( les 2 parties contentes ) , le vendeur me demande si je ne peux pas lui changer des pièces . Dernier jour de voyage . Je réponds oui , mais je n'ai qu'1 billet de 20 Euros . Tous les voisins sont venus à la rescousse avec des pièces complémentaires; j'ai reçu une chaise (!!!) et j'ai recompté à mon aise .
Bon futur voyage !
Je suis aussi d'un naturel méfiant mais je comprends que les égyptiens ne sachent rien faire de leurs pièces d'euros . Donc , anecdote pour anecdote , j'étais l'an passé aux souks d'Assouan : après 1 petit achat bien marchandé ( les 2 parties contentes ) , le vendeur me demande si je ne peux pas lui changer des pièces . Dernier jour de voyage . Je réponds oui , mais je n'ai qu'1 billet de 20 Euros . Tous les voisins sont venus à la rescousse avec des pièces complémentaires; j'ai reçu une chaise (!!!) et j'ai recompté à mon aise .
Bon futur voyage !
Brigitte
Comme quoi il y a des gens honnêtes partout et malheureusement des filous aussi.
Vivement le prochain voyage.
Vivement le prochain voyage.
J'ai décidé d'être heureux car c'est bon pour la santé.
Bonsoir,
pour répondre à Tatra, je n'en sais rien car j'essaie toujours de changer ce qui m'est nécessaire et le reste d'argent je le dépense lors d'un autre voyage.
Je sais l'avoir fait il y a quelques années ; je ne sais pas si c'est encore possible.
En tous cas s'il est possible de le faire, c'est uniquement en Egypte, ailleurs je suis catégorique, c'est niet.
Etant donné que certains office commercialisent en France des Egp, je suppose que ce n'est pas 100% impossible.
Michel
pour répondre à Tatra, je n'en sais rien car j'essaie toujours de changer ce qui m'est nécessaire et le reste d'argent je le dépense lors d'un autre voyage.
Je sais l'avoir fait il y a quelques années ; je ne sais pas si c'est encore possible.
En tous cas s'il est possible de le faire, c'est uniquement en Egypte, ailleurs je suis catégorique, c'est niet.
Etant donné que certains office commercialisent en France des Egp, je suppose que ce n'est pas 100% impossible.
Michel
Bonjour,
Ancien du milieu bancaire je vous encourage à demander à une banque Française de vous vendre des LE. Quand je dis Banque, je parle des grandes enseignes et non pas une petite agence située au coin d'une rue sombre à Paris (ou à Bruxelles pour vous qui semblez Belge). Si vous en trouvez une, faites le moi savoir et donnez-moi son nom et le lieu ou je devrai aller. Sachez par expérience que pour échanger un billet de 100 USD, toutes les banques ne vous donnent pas votre argent immédiatement mais après qu'il ait été expertisé (comptez entre 8 et 15 jours de délai au moins). Avant l'Euro lorsqu'on changeait les lires Italiennes, certains billets n'étaient pas repris faute de n'avoir pas assez de valeur alors qu'on vous les vendait etc etc ...
Maintenant peut-on trouver un agent de change qui peut vous fournir des LE ??? à Paris peut-être ? il doit en exister mais ça ne doit pas courir les rues. Il faudra voir aussi à quel taux on vous reprendra vos EGP (et si c'est par courrier prévoyez kit d'envoi, reco avec AR, frais de change forfaitaires ou pas, commission, frais bancaire pour vous virer l'argent etc...)
D'avance merci pour les adresses que vous voudrez bien nous donner.
Bonne journée.
J'ai décidé d'être heureux car c'est bon pour la santé.
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We’re planning to rent a vehicle and are pretty active—we’re not really into crowds (that’s why I’ve decided to skip Marrakech).
Here’s my proposed itinerary:
Trip Proposal Summary: From May 13 (morning arrival) to May 26 (morning departure) Arrival and departure: Essaouira Day 1 (May 13): Arrival in Essaouira – Settling in / Exploring / Rest Day 2 (May 14): Essaouira – Water activities Day 3 (May 15): Essaouira to Tafraoute (~5h30) – route via Agadir – arrival and first exploration; Question: Is a detour to Taroudant worth considering? Day 4 (May 16): Tafraoute – Hike in the granite rocks – wild bivouac Day 5 (May 17): Tafraoute – Aït Mansour gorges – oasis – night in a hostel Day 6 (May 18): Tafraoute → Foum Zguid (~5h) – transition route – simple overnight or bivouac Day 7 (May 19): Foum Zguid → Zagora (~3h) – Draa Valley – desert prep Day 8 (May 20): Zagora → M'Hamid El Ghizlane → Erg Chigaga – departure with 4x4 guide – entering the dunes – bivouac Day 9 (May 21): Erg Chigaga – full desert day – walking, exploring – bivouac Day 10 (May 22): Desert → Ouarzazate (~5–6h) – leaving the desert – rest Day 11 (May 23): Aït Benhaddou – early visit – short hike – overnight stay Day 12 (May 24): Aït Benhaddou → Telouet – route toward the Atlas – start of trek – bivouac Day 13 (May 25): Atlas → Essaouira (~5–6h) – end of trek – return to Essaouira (overnight) Day 14 (May 26): Essaouira – free time + return flight
What do you think?
I aimed for an excursion to the Chigaga desert from M’Hamid because it seems less touristy and allows for a more compact loop. Is that a good idea? Is the drive to M’Hamid maybe too tedious?
Open to your great tips if there’s room for optimization!
All ears! :)
Thanks in advance and have a great day!
Clément
I’m finalizing the loop I’d like to do in May over 13 days, starting and ending in Essaouira.
We’re planning to rent a vehicle and are pretty active—we’re not really into crowds (that’s why I’ve decided to skip Marrakech).
Here’s my proposed itinerary:
Trip Proposal Summary: From May 13 (morning arrival) to May 26 (morning departure) Arrival and departure: Essaouira Day 1 (May 13): Arrival in Essaouira – Settling in / Exploring / Rest Day 2 (May 14): Essaouira – Water activities Day 3 (May 15): Essaouira to Tafraoute (~5h30) – route via Agadir – arrival and first exploration; Question: Is a detour to Taroudant worth considering? Day 4 (May 16): Tafraoute – Hike in the granite rocks – wild bivouac Day 5 (May 17): Tafraoute – Aït Mansour gorges – oasis – night in a hostel Day 6 (May 18): Tafraoute → Foum Zguid (~5h) – transition route – simple overnight or bivouac Day 7 (May 19): Foum Zguid → Zagora (~3h) – Draa Valley – desert prep Day 8 (May 20): Zagora → M'Hamid El Ghizlane → Erg Chigaga – departure with 4x4 guide – entering the dunes – bivouac Day 9 (May 21): Erg Chigaga – full desert day – walking, exploring – bivouac Day 10 (May 22): Desert → Ouarzazate (~5–6h) – leaving the desert – rest Day 11 (May 23): Aït Benhaddou – early visit – short hike – overnight stay Day 12 (May 24): Aït Benhaddou → Telouet – route toward the Atlas – start of trek – bivouac Day 13 (May 25): Atlas → Essaouira (~5–6h) – end of trek – return to Essaouira (overnight) Day 14 (May 26): Essaouira – free time + return flight
What do you think?
I aimed for an excursion to the Chigaga desert from M’Hamid because it seems less touristy and allows for a more compact loop. Is that a good idea? Is the drive to M’Hamid maybe too tedious?
Open to your great tips if there’s room for optimization!
All ears! :)
Thanks in advance and have a great day!
Clément
A lot of people find it important to stick to their budget when traveling—not to skimp, but to visit as many places as possible since traveling is their hobby.
In this post, I want to share some tips for those coming to Morocco who want their trip to be budget-friendly.
1. Prebook everything: hotels or riads, car rentals, or tours. If you book these in advance, it’ll make your life easier. You won’t have to deal with hagglers or people trying to overcharge you for services that are available online for free. Use platforms like Booking, Expedia, carsrental.ma, Airbnb, and other booking services to get this done properly.
2. Exchange your money to Moroccan dirhams as soon as you land. 1 € is always a little over 10 dirhams, but many people get charged as if it were exactly 10 dirhams per euro.
3. When visiting an old site or the old medina, avoid talking to vendors and shop owners—they’re really good at getting your attention and making you overpay for things.
4. Ask your tour guide to buy things for you. Yes, they do get a commission, but you’ll probably pay way more if you buy something yourself that they can get cheaply.
5. Walk everywhere. You don’t need a taxi for every little trip. Pick a good location and walk—most Moroccan cities are safe during normal hours.
6. Buy your food, drinks, etc., from supermarkets at normal prices. They can’t overcharge you since they scan every product.
I think that’s it for now.
Take care
In this post, I want to share some tips for those coming to Morocco who want their trip to be budget-friendly.
1. Prebook everything: hotels or riads, car rentals, or tours. If you book these in advance, it’ll make your life easier. You won’t have to deal with hagglers or people trying to overcharge you for services that are available online for free. Use platforms like Booking, Expedia, carsrental.ma, Airbnb, and other booking services to get this done properly.
2. Exchange your money to Moroccan dirhams as soon as you land. 1 € is always a little over 10 dirhams, but many people get charged as if it were exactly 10 dirhams per euro.
3. When visiting an old site or the old medina, avoid talking to vendors and shop owners—they’re really good at getting your attention and making you overpay for things.
4. Ask your tour guide to buy things for you. Yes, they do get a commission, but you’ll probably pay way more if you buy something yourself that they can get cheaply.
5. Walk everywhere. You don’t need a taxi for every little trip. Pick a good location and walk—most Moroccan cities are safe during normal hours.
6. Buy your food, drinks, etc., from supermarkets at normal prices. They can’t overcharge you since they scan every product.
I think that’s it for now.
Take care
Hi everyone! 😊
We’re traveling as a family to Marrakech from April 19 to 24, and there’ll be 15 of us (all ages), staying in the Targa neighborhood (El Idrissi Street).
I’d love your advice on a few things! 🙏
🚗 Vehicle rental
We’re thinking of renting 3 cars. We’ve seen really low prices online, but often without insurance.
👉 Do you have any reliable contacts or personal experiences to share?
👉 Would you recommend getting specific “tourist” insurance?
🏛️ Visits – Bahia Palace & Saadian Tombs
We’d like to visit the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs, but:
We can’t find single tickets online We only see guided tours with fixed times (like 9:30 AM / 4-hour tours)
👉 Do you know if it’s possible to book without a guide? 👉 Or do we have to buy tickets on-site? (We’re a little worried about crowds and lines, especially with older folks in the group.) 🍽️ Restaurants / meals We’ve spotted the Grand Bazaar Marrakech for a meal. 👉 Any thoughts? 👉 Could you recommend other restaurants in the same budget? (We’re a big group, so it needs to stay reasonable.) For lunch/snacks, we’ve seen:
Snack Toubkal Goûter Saveur
👉 If anyone’s been, I’d love your feedback! 😊 🛒 Practical info – Targa neighborhood We’ll be in Targa (El Idrissi Street). 👉 Are there shops nearby for quick groceries (breakfast, water, etc.)?
If you’ve got any great tips, contacts, or little tricks, I’d love to hear them! 😍 Thanks so much for your help! 💖
We can’t find single tickets online We only see guided tours with fixed times (like 9:30 AM / 4-hour tours)
👉 Do you know if it’s possible to book without a guide? 👉 Or do we have to buy tickets on-site? (We’re a little worried about crowds and lines, especially with older folks in the group.) 🍽️ Restaurants / meals We’ve spotted the Grand Bazaar Marrakech for a meal. 👉 Any thoughts? 👉 Could you recommend other restaurants in the same budget? (We’re a big group, so it needs to stay reasonable.) For lunch/snacks, we’ve seen:
Snack Toubkal Goûter Saveur
👉 If anyone’s been, I’d love your feedback! 😊 🛒 Practical info – Targa neighborhood We’ll be in Targa (El Idrissi Street). 👉 Are there shops nearby for quick groceries (breakfast, water, etc.)?
If you’ve got any great tips, contacts, or little tricks, I’d love to hear them! 😍 Thanks so much for your help! 💖
As-salamu alaykum!
We’re heading to Morocco as a family from April 22 to May 8. It’s a bit short to explore such a beautiful and vast country, but school and work commitments, you know how it is... My partner is a musician and absolutely loves Gnawa music. Unfortunately, we won’t have time to visit Essaouira, as we’re heading south toward the Valley of the Roses...
Do you know of any places around Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Kelaat M’Gouna where we might have the chance to meet Gnawa musicians? We’ll also be staying a few days in Aït Benhaddou and Skoura during our trip toward the Dadès Valley. If you have any good spots to buy a guembri along the way, I’d love to hear about them too! :)
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Mathieu
We’re heading to Morocco as a family from April 22 to May 8. It’s a bit short to explore such a beautiful and vast country, but school and work commitments, you know how it is... My partner is a musician and absolutely loves Gnawa music. Unfortunately, we won’t have time to visit Essaouira, as we’re heading south toward the Valley of the Roses...
Do you know of any places around Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Kelaat M’Gouna where we might have the chance to meet Gnawa musicians? We’ll also be staying a few days in Aït Benhaddou and Skoura during our trip toward the Dadès Valley. If you have any good spots to buy a guembri along the way, I’d love to hear about them too! :)
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Mathieu
Mid-May: arriving alone (so, a "petit taxi"?) at Marrakech airport around 4:30 PM,
is it advisable to take a taxi at the airport (cost?) or is it wiser to book one through the hotel before departure (which would cost me 20 €)?
I think I’ve seen lower fares elsewhere (12 €?).
Destination: Riad Sijane near Djemaa El Fna square. Thanks!
hi there
we’re heading to Hammamet in a few months
what would you recommend visiting for a week?
best regards
Hi there,
I’m planning my next trip outside Europe for next year, but unfortunately, I don’t have a choice with the dates—it’s late June to early July. Last year, I went to Japan for three weeks, and it was constantly 36-37°C with over 90% humidity. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t impossible either.
For Egypt, I know it’s a period to avoid if possible, but I’m thinking that by the sea, it might be manageable. Otherwise, I’ll consider another destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Hurghada in the evening Day 2, 3, 4: Hurghada Day 5: Hurghada, then drive to Luxor in the early afternoon Day 6: Luxor Day 7: Luxor, then drive back to Hurghada in the late afternoon Day 8, 9, 10, 11: Hurghada Day 12: Return flight
For the Hurghada trip, either rent a car or—easier—a private car/van. Is it worth adding an extra day in Luxor?
During the stay, we’re planning activities like camel rides, quad biking, jeep tours, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
Thanks for your replies
I’m planning my next trip outside Europe for next year, but unfortunately, I don’t have a choice with the dates—it’s late June to early July. Last year, I went to Japan for three weeks, and it was constantly 36-37°C with over 90% humidity. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t impossible either.
For Egypt, I know it’s a period to avoid if possible, but I’m thinking that by the sea, it might be manageable. Otherwise, I’ll consider another destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Hurghada in the evening Day 2, 3, 4: Hurghada Day 5: Hurghada, then drive to Luxor in the early afternoon Day 6: Luxor Day 7: Luxor, then drive back to Hurghada in the late afternoon Day 8, 9, 10, 11: Hurghada Day 12: Return flight
For the Hurghada trip, either rent a car or—easier—a private car/van. Is it worth adding an extra day in Luxor?
During the stay, we’re planning activities like camel rides, quad biking, jeep tours, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
Thanks for your replies
Hi there,
We’re planning a trip to Morocco in September-October in our Fiat camper van, which isn’t a 4x4 but has already handled quite a bit of rough travel. While reading up on southern Morocco, we’ve been drawn to the Aguinane oasis but I’m having trouble locating it on the map. Is it possible to get there without a 4x4?
Thanks for your help
Hi,
Does anyone know the address of a rose flower distillery in the Valley of Roses / Kelaa M'Gouna? A traditional distillery, not just the tourist shop.
Thanks a bunch!
Nicolas :-)
Does anyone know the address of a rose flower distillery in the Valley of Roses / Kelaa M'Gouna? A traditional distillery, not just the tourist shop.
Thanks a bunch!
Nicolas :-)
Hi there,
Can anyone tell me if it's possible to travel from the Dades Gorges (Msemrir) to the Todra Gorges (Tamtatouche) on a paved road? Thanks in advance for any answers.
Hello,
We’d like to hire a French-speaking guide (agency, professional, or volunteer) to show us around Cairo over three days.
Trip planned for November 22, 23, and 24, 2026—four veteran French travelers.
We’re open to any leads, contact info, or suggestions.
Best regards,
Jacques
Hi there,
I have a layover in Algeria.
I won’t be leaving the airport.
The two tickets aren’t with the same airline.
Do I need a transit visa?
Thanks for any details and your help!
Hi there,
I live in Casablanca and my parents, who are 80, will be joining me in Marrakech at the beginning of May for a few days.
We’ll be renting a car to get around.
Do you have any suggestions for things to see or visit within a 2-3 hour drive max from Marrakech that aren’t too touristy?
My parents can walk a bit, but at 80, no climbing Mount Toubkal!
Thanks so much in advance for your ideas!
Hi everyone, just back from the 8-day Marrakech-Merzouga loop by car, and I’d love to share my feedback in case it helps some of you. Big thanks to all the forum members who kindly answered my questions!
Trip from Friday the 20th to Saturday the 28th, flying out of Marseille with Ryanair
- Landed late around 8 PM local time, exchanged some currency, and the rental agency (Magdaz Car, which I highly recommend) delivered the car straight to the airport with some great route tips (don’t blindly trust Maps.me). The night drive was a bit intense—lots of people out and about due to Ramadan. Stayed at Riad Midhou (really nice) on the outskirts of the city, which made it easy to hit the road the next morning.
- Day 1: Marrakech to Skoura. The drive was smooth, roads are great, but watch out for roundabout priority—it’s different from France. Beautiful route. Quick stop in Ouarzazate for lunch, Ait Benhaddou for the view (stunning), and the Fint Oasis (meh...). Spent the night at Taloute Ecolodge in Skoura, overlooking the palm grove (super cozy).
- Day 2: Skoura to Todgha Gorges via the Valley of Roses and Dades Gorges. Adventure-packed day! We crossed the Valley of Roses (pretty, but not as amazing as I’d hoped) and took a "shortcut" recommended by the *Routard* guide to reach the Dades Gorges without backtracking. After asking locals, they said, "It’s doable." Turns out it was a narrow, rocky cliffside track—no way to turn around! A stressful moment, with a nice scratch on the bumper and a good sweat. Fine in an SUV or 4x4, but not in a Logan... Then the Dades Gorges (nice) and a detour through the north to reach Todgha from above. Gorgeous mountain road and a quick stop on some snow patches—touching African snow! Spent the night at *Les Gorges de Todgha*—great place, except for the bathroom. The Todgha Gorges themselves are stunning!
Day 3: Todgha to Merzouga. Beautiful drive, and the view of the erg (sand dunes) on arrival is breathtaking! Totally worth the trip. Explored the desert and stayed at *Café du Sud* hotel just outside Merzouga—absolutely gorgeous.
Day 4: Merzouga. Desert exploration and chilling by the hotel pool (with a bonus sunburn). Lunch in Merzouga—I recommend *Dakar*—their lemon tajine was amazing. Spent the night in the hotel’s luxury camp, including a camel ride. The camp was beautiful, but I was disappointed we weren’t deeper in the desert given the price (100 € per person, including dinner, breakfast, and camel ride).
Day 5: Merzouga to Tamnougalt. Gorgeous route. First fine (a supposed stop sign...) but the officer was super nice—only 150 MAD. Stayed at *Kasbah Maktob*, right in the middle of ruins—really unique and beautiful!
Day 6: Tamnougalt to Marrakech. Another beautiful drive, and a second fine (minor speeding), same amount. Crossed a windy mountain pass during a big storm—traffic was blocked in the opposite direction (not sure why), causing massive jams for those coming from Marrakech. A few downed cables, but nothing serious. Arriving in Marrakech was tricky—hard to find the rental agency, and the traffic was intense (watch out for GPS trying to send you through the medina). Ask the rental company to meet you somewhere quiet. They didn’t even notice the damaged bumper... Stayed at *Riad Zifamo* in the heart of the medina. Big change of pace—so many people and so much hustle!
Day 7: Marrakech. Lots of wandering through the souk and a quick trip to Gueliz (not essential). A few tips for the medina: watch out for scooters weaving too fast, always negotiate prices (aim for at least 1/3 off what they ask, unless it’s a small amount), don’t buy spices—more expensive than in France! Head to the *Carrefour Market* in Gueliz for better prices. In the end, not many truly unique items—you’ll find more or less the same things everywhere.
Day 8: Early morning flight. We’d booked a car to the airport from the riad, but a taxi would’ve been fine—plenty available even at 7 AM. Security wasn’t an issue (we had lighters and liquids over 100 ml).
A few extra notes: Pleasantly surprised by the road quality—just a few potholes here and there, but overall very drivable. Watch out for the police—they’re everywhere! The car cost me 30 € per day (with the *Routard* discount) and about 90 € in gas. No safety concerns, no harassment, and no stomach issues, despite the ice in Marrakech. Breakfasts at the hotels were usually hearty—take advantage! The timing (end of February) was perfect—pleasant daytime temps and cool nights. Since it was Ramadan, nothing unusual to report, except it was hard to find food outside Marrakech at lunchtime. If I did it again, Merzouga is a must, but I’d spend a night in a real desert bivouac, deeper in the dunes. My stops (no more than 300 km a day) were well-paced, and with so few cars on the road, it wasn’t tiring—even though I’m not usually a fan of driving... Happy to answer any questions!
Trip from Friday the 20th to Saturday the 28th, flying out of Marseille with Ryanair
- Landed late around 8 PM local time, exchanged some currency, and the rental agency (Magdaz Car, which I highly recommend) delivered the car straight to the airport with some great route tips (don’t blindly trust Maps.me). The night drive was a bit intense—lots of people out and about due to Ramadan. Stayed at Riad Midhou (really nice) on the outskirts of the city, which made it easy to hit the road the next morning.
- Day 1: Marrakech to Skoura. The drive was smooth, roads are great, but watch out for roundabout priority—it’s different from France. Beautiful route. Quick stop in Ouarzazate for lunch, Ait Benhaddou for the view (stunning), and the Fint Oasis (meh...). Spent the night at Taloute Ecolodge in Skoura, overlooking the palm grove (super cozy).
- Day 2: Skoura to Todgha Gorges via the Valley of Roses and Dades Gorges. Adventure-packed day! We crossed the Valley of Roses (pretty, but not as amazing as I’d hoped) and took a "shortcut" recommended by the *Routard* guide to reach the Dades Gorges without backtracking. After asking locals, they said, "It’s doable." Turns out it was a narrow, rocky cliffside track—no way to turn around! A stressful moment, with a nice scratch on the bumper and a good sweat. Fine in an SUV or 4x4, but not in a Logan... Then the Dades Gorges (nice) and a detour through the north to reach Todgha from above. Gorgeous mountain road and a quick stop on some snow patches—touching African snow! Spent the night at *Les Gorges de Todgha*—great place, except for the bathroom. The Todgha Gorges themselves are stunning!
Day 3: Todgha to Merzouga. Beautiful drive, and the view of the erg (sand dunes) on arrival is breathtaking! Totally worth the trip. Explored the desert and stayed at *Café du Sud* hotel just outside Merzouga—absolutely gorgeous.
Day 4: Merzouga. Desert exploration and chilling by the hotel pool (with a bonus sunburn). Lunch in Merzouga—I recommend *Dakar*—their lemon tajine was amazing. Spent the night in the hotel’s luxury camp, including a camel ride. The camp was beautiful, but I was disappointed we weren’t deeper in the desert given the price (100 € per person, including dinner, breakfast, and camel ride).
Day 5: Merzouga to Tamnougalt. Gorgeous route. First fine (a supposed stop sign...) but the officer was super nice—only 150 MAD. Stayed at *Kasbah Maktob*, right in the middle of ruins—really unique and beautiful!
Day 6: Tamnougalt to Marrakech. Another beautiful drive, and a second fine (minor speeding), same amount. Crossed a windy mountain pass during a big storm—traffic was blocked in the opposite direction (not sure why), causing massive jams for those coming from Marrakech. A few downed cables, but nothing serious. Arriving in Marrakech was tricky—hard to find the rental agency, and the traffic was intense (watch out for GPS trying to send you through the medina). Ask the rental company to meet you somewhere quiet. They didn’t even notice the damaged bumper... Stayed at *Riad Zifamo* in the heart of the medina. Big change of pace—so many people and so much hustle!
Day 7: Marrakech. Lots of wandering through the souk and a quick trip to Gueliz (not essential). A few tips for the medina: watch out for scooters weaving too fast, always negotiate prices (aim for at least 1/3 off what they ask, unless it’s a small amount), don’t buy spices—more expensive than in France! Head to the *Carrefour Market* in Gueliz for better prices. In the end, not many truly unique items—you’ll find more or less the same things everywhere.
Day 8: Early morning flight. We’d booked a car to the airport from the riad, but a taxi would’ve been fine—plenty available even at 7 AM. Security wasn’t an issue (we had lighters and liquids over 100 ml).
A few extra notes: Pleasantly surprised by the road quality—just a few potholes here and there, but overall very drivable. Watch out for the police—they’re everywhere! The car cost me 30 € per day (with the *Routard* discount) and about 90 € in gas. No safety concerns, no harassment, and no stomach issues, despite the ice in Marrakech. Breakfasts at the hotels were usually hearty—take advantage! The timing (end of February) was perfect—pleasant daytime temps and cool nights. Since it was Ramadan, nothing unusual to report, except it was hard to find food outside Marrakech at lunchtime. If I did it again, Merzouga is a must, but I’d spend a night in a real desert bivouac, deeper in the dunes. My stops (no more than 300 km a day) were well-paced, and with so few cars on the road, it wasn’t tiring—even though I’m not usually a fan of driving... Happy to answer any questions!
Hi there,
I’m traveling solo to Egypt. Could you give me a rough idea of the budget for:
meals
hotels
taxis including tips
visits...
Just an estimate, of course.
For 15 days, what would the price range be, considering there’s an overnight train and a Nile cruise?
I’d like to compare with a travel agency. Is it more worthwhile to go through an agency despite the downsides of group travel?
Otherwise, if a travel buddy is interested in this country, why not?
Thanks a lot!




