Hello, my husband and I will be in Egypt this coming November. Cairo seems more challenging to explore without a guide, and we’ll be there for 3 full days. Would anyone have the name of a guide?
Thanks!
Les dérives du sud marocain
by Thierryzag
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
🙂merci pour tes encouragements. je vais effectivement passer une semaine a Marrachek le 3 mars puis deux semaines en octobre a Agadir. je compte bien en profiter . merci et a bientot
🤪De toute facon, ma decision est prise. je pars et compte bien en profiter et visiter et surtout faire tout ce qui sera possible pour vivre de la meme maniere qu eux et profiter de leurs coutumes et us. J ai juste un peu de mal a avoir des renseignements sur le riad que j ai reserve qui s appelle l heure d ete. je voudrais lancer un appel mais je ne sais pas comment faire, je ne manipule pas encore bien internet. merci et si tu peux m aider tant mieux......
Tout à fait d'accord avec toi, tout les framistes marmaratistes et autres tours opératoristes ne partiraient certainement pas seul hors de la frontiere pour la premiere fois, il n'y a pas que des barroudeurs sur la terre. Et aussi les personnes agés pour qui partir à l'aventure n'est pas possible. Meme si les tours opérateurs gagnent de l'argent, il ne faut pas oublié que certainnes personnes des pays visités (hormis les grands trust internationnaux) en gagnent un peu, commerçants, artisants, agriculteurs, maraichers, transporteurs etc. Regardons chez nous, pourquoi dans nos sites touristiques le prix d'une simple petite consommation coute 3 fois plus cher qu'à Isolé/séche ou Parissis les Fochés.
Bonjour à tous
Hé oui me revoila mais pour poser une question !!!!!!
Je me répond à moi même non pas pour relancer le débat sur le sud mais je me pose la question suivante:
Mon post a disparu du site pendant 24h et le revoila ??????? si quelqu'un peut m'expliquer le pourquoi du comment merci d'avance.
Et je suis certain qu'il avavait disparu car toute les notification de réponses sur ma boite mail m'amennaient sur une page dans laquelle il était dit que le post a été supprimé ??????
Comme me l'a suggeré un participant à ce post, je vais trés bientôt mettre en ligne un blog bien plus complet qu'un simple post sur tout ce dont je me rend compte, en éspérant avoir vos visites
Bonne soirée à tous et encore merci aux nombreux participants qui ont adhéré à ce post
Thierry
Comme me l'a suggeré un participant à ce post, je vais trés bientôt mettre en ligne un blog bien plus complet qu'un simple post sur tout ce dont je me rend compte, en éspérant avoir vos visites
Bonne soirée à tous et encore merci aux nombreux participants qui ont adhéré à ce post
Thierry
Mon post a disparu du site pendant 24h et le revoila ??????? Et je suis certain qu'il avavait disparu oui oui il avait bien disparu toute les notification de réponses sur ma boite mail m'amennaient sur une page dans laquelle il était dit que le post a été supprimé ??????
pareil pour moi et le post UD maroc disparu aussi celui-la ! ?
bonsoir thierryzag
Je viens de tout lire et que je soit d'accord ou pas dans tout ce qui se dit sa ne changera rient.
Par contre chapeau vous avez exprimé ce que vous avec vu et vecu certainement. Cela ne plais pas a certains je peut le comprendre.
Personnellement je vais au maroc plus de 13 ans avec mon campingcar qui devienr vieux mais qui roule toujours.
de toutes ces années que je suis allé j'ai recherché les coins les plus isolé pour justement rencontrer les marocains qui vivent avec rient et c'est avec eux que j'apprend bc. Je ne suis pas riche mais chaques fois que ji vais j'apporte des vetements ou autres et de voire comment ils apprecient le peut que je leurs donne c'est un grand cadeau pour moi.
Enfin pour ma part quand il y a des choses a dire faut les dire sa fera peut être réfléchir certaines personnes a changer leurs comportement pour le réspect de tous. Je pense que l'on ma compris pas besoin de détailler. Les arnakeurs il y en a par tout et des braves aussi.
Encore juste vous dire que je me sent plus en sécurité quand j'arrive au Maroc que quand je traverse la france, et l'éspagne pour y arriver c'est scandalleux aucunne sécurité contre les voleurs sur aire autoroute.
c'est super le Maroc et bravo pour ce que vous faites
Hello, en effet je voulais relire ton post et...disparu. C'était écrit en rouge qu'ils travaillaient sur le site et que ça pourraient avoir des désagréments.
Peut-être étaient-ils en train d'analyser ton post à des fins louches ?????😏😏😏😏Mais nooon je plaisante. Il reste que ton post avait vraiment disparu et si tu as d'autres sujets intéressants qui te titillent l'âme alors vas-y moi je trouve ça très intéressant et ça fait réfléchir sur des choses bien cachées dans notre tête, par oubli ou par lâcheté ??
Bonne soirée et au plaisir de te relire.
Peut-être étaient-ils en train d'analyser ton post à des fins louches ?????😏😏😏😏Mais nooon je plaisante. Il reste que ton post avait vraiment disparu et si tu as d'autres sujets intéressants qui te titillent l'âme alors vas-y moi je trouve ça très intéressant et ça fait réfléchir sur des choses bien cachées dans notre tête, par oubli ou par lâcheté ??
Bonne soirée et au plaisir de te relire.
bonsoir
ouh lala, j'ai eu peur !!!🤪
moi aussi je ne pouvais plus joindre mon forum favoris, mais bon nous revoila connecter !!!
vous me manquiez les forumistes, car même si certains me mettent en colère, en générale vous êtes tous sympas !
c'était mon quart d'heure de bonté 😏
a bientot
francia
Je suis tout a fait d'accord avec vous !!! il ne faut quand meme pas exagerer et tout denigrer comme ça... y'en a marre de tous ces gens qui se croyent superieur au monde ! Mais de quoi vivez vous ??? en grande majorité si ce n'est du tourisme direct ou indirect ? Un peu de tolerance et laissez les gens voyager comme bon leur semble. "Le tourisme de masse" et alors ?
Salut Thierry
Houaaaaaaaa !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! J'ai lu ton post ainsi que les avis et je dois dire que la tu donne un bon coup de pied dans la fourmilliere !!!!!!!et je dis BRAVO !!!!!!! j'adhére pleinement tout ce que tu dit est malheureusement excate dans la majeur partis des cas que tu dénnonce. Un minuscule bémol quand même (il faut bien ) toutes les agences ne sont pas comme cela mais c'est vrai qu'il y en trés peu, et c'est vrai que celles -ci n'ont nullement besoin de pub sur les forums ni de rabateurs sur place. Je pense aussi savoir de quel hôtelier tu parle quand tu dit qu'il mène un vrai projet, est ce celui qui mais en place un centre éducatif à Bounou ????? confirme me le moi en message privé !!!!!
Je ne le citerais pas ici par pudeur pour lui, car si c'est de la personne à laquelle je pense c'est vrai qu'il est trés discret sur ce plan, et ne serait surement pas content de trouver son nom ou son établissement ici !!!!!! mais c'est le seul que je connais qui a une réelle démarche solidaire et paye bien son personnel qui d'ailleur reste travailler dans son établissement. Mais toujours si il s'agit de la même personne je ne sais pas si tu est aucourant mais à mon avis tu doit l'être car il me semble que tu connait bien le coin il monte ce centre avec l'aide d'une petite association touristique française dont j'ai déja rencontré le responsable en France et c'est vrai qu'ils font du bon boulot ensemble la bas. Je voulais simplement préciser ce petit point.
Sinon encore bravo pour ce a quoi tu donne ton temps si seulement tous les expat français qui vont se mettre à l'abris du fisc français au Maroc pouvaient avoir la même démarche que toi les choses avanceraient plus vite. Plutôt que ce prélasser dans leurs luxueux riads dans la médina ou leurs indécentes villas dans la palmeraie de Marrakech et qui ne se cache pas de dire qu'avec les lois sociales (inexistantes ou si peu) au Maroc ils peuvent avoir une grande souplesse vis à vis de leur personnel de maison !!!!! Je trouve qu'ils font honte aux français !!!!!!!
En tout cas personnellement je soutient ta démarche et encore BRAVO
Franck
Bonjour
Bravo pour oser dire ce qui ce passe malheureusement de plus en plus dans cette région je te soutien à fond J'ai moi même été témoin du harcelement de tous ces rabatteurs à M'Hamid et il a fallus qu'un vieux monsieur marocain intervienne pour que cette petite bande laisse tranquille deux pauvres jeunes filles qui sont arrivée là en taxi, à peine sortie elles ont été assaillis par cinq jeunes qui ne les ont pas lacher durant au moins un quart d'heure, elles ont fini en pleure, et ça faisait bien rigoler ces types!!!!:!
Je suis sur qu'en voila deux qui ne vont pas faire de pub pour le sud !!!!!!!
Une autre petite anecdote, alors que j'étais dans un hôtel de Oualed Driss j'ai surpris la conversation de deux familles dont une était aller se promener à pieds jusqu'à M'Hamid, à peine arrivée à la porte de la ville ça n'a été que sollicitation en tous genre, elles ont dus rentré à l'hôtel tout de suite car une bande de rabatteurs ne les lachait pas, alors qu'elle revenait d'une méharée de plusieurs jours dont d'ailleur elle semblait enchanté. de quoi vous dégouter de revenir
Autre chose aussi qui a plutôt tendance à me hérisser le poil sur ce forum,
Il existe d'autre agence que bivouac sous les étoiles et bivouac des mille et une nuit !!!! à lire les post il semblerait qu'il n'y ais que ces deux là surtout qu'elles sont loin d'être les meilleures j'ose le dire n'en déplaise à certain
Et pour finir d'accord avec Raoulx c'est bien souvent squatter par des agences (qui d'ailleur pour la plupart n'ont aucune patente et sous traite à d'autre contre une comm bien sur) ou des faux guides ici. Voir ce qui noté sur ce site et que je retrancrit ci-dessous
Note: Aucune publicité, promotion, vente de produit ou offre de service n'est permise dans ce forum. Merci de respecter cette règle.
On dirait que c'est bien souvent outrepassé
Pat
Note: Aucune publicité, promotion, vente de produit ou offre de service n'est permise dans ce forum. Merci de respecter cette règle.
On dirait que c'est bien souvent outrepassé
Pat
bonjour
tu as malheureusement raison ce harcèlement continu est très pénible, et cause même du tord aux Marocains eux mêmes, car beaucoup
de touristes ne veulent plus retourner au Maroc .
cette situation est pareil dans tous les pays touristique en Afrique, que ce soit au Sénégal, en Tunisie, au Mali ...
que de mal fait "le dieu fric " !
tout ça ne m'empêchera pas de repartir, car j'ai appris a gérer ces situations, mais certains de mes amis se tournent vers l'Asie, plus cool
apparemment !
dommage !
francia
* ** car j'ai appris a gérer ces situations ***
Bonjour,
malheureusement, ceux qui viennent chercher l'info sur ce forum n'ont souvent qu'une semaine de congés, et c'est notre devoir, à nous qui "gèrons ces situations", de les mettre en garde et de tout faire pour que leur court séjour ne se transforme pas en galère. perso, je passe au moins une fois par an vers Mahmid, et je n'ai toujours pas la solution, et j'ai pourtant le cuir épais.
une chose à ne pas oublier, dans ce secteur, la principale activité n'est pas le 'tourisme', c'est la contrebande avec l'Algérie, et le passage de clandestins, ce qui justifie l'nvestissement de 4x4, utilisés comme alibi avec les touristes!
une autre grosse activité, est de chercher et trouver, un financier européen, qui recapitalisera, des petites auberges ou agences, ou le service est tellement nul qu'il n'y a pas de clients. la victime sera souvent une femme d'une certaine maturité, qui pendant quelques temps y croira, enverra ses amis, et fera de la pub sur tous les forums, dont VF! (on peut donner des noms ???), cette victime y croit, et fait du commercial pendant que le gigolo se pavane avec les nouvelles clientes, ou comme beaucoup, reste vautré dans un coin de tente, à fumer un joint avec les cousins, et amis nourris par cette manne!
Et la télé, la dedans, une nouvelle preuve de l'indépendance et de la crédibilité de nos journalistes ................
Et tout ca, sous l'oeil bienveillant des notables locaux, complètement dévoyés dans ce système. (quoi qu'il y ait eu quelques soucis pour certains récemment !)
Bonjour,
malheureusement, ceux qui viennent chercher l'info sur ce forum n'ont souvent qu'une semaine de congés, et c'est notre devoir, à nous qui "gèrons ces situations", de les mettre en garde et de tout faire pour que leur court séjour ne se transforme pas en galère. perso, je passe au moins une fois par an vers Mahmid, et je n'ai toujours pas la solution, et j'ai pourtant le cuir épais.
une chose à ne pas oublier, dans ce secteur, la principale activité n'est pas le 'tourisme', c'est la contrebande avec l'Algérie, et le passage de clandestins, ce qui justifie l'nvestissement de 4x4, utilisés comme alibi avec les touristes!
une autre grosse activité, est de chercher et trouver, un financier européen, qui recapitalisera, des petites auberges ou agences, ou le service est tellement nul qu'il n'y a pas de clients. la victime sera souvent une femme d'une certaine maturité, qui pendant quelques temps y croira, enverra ses amis, et fera de la pub sur tous les forums, dont VF! (on peut donner des noms ???), cette victime y croit, et fait du commercial pendant que le gigolo se pavane avec les nouvelles clientes, ou comme beaucoup, reste vautré dans un coin de tente, à fumer un joint avec les cousins, et amis nourris par cette manne!
Et la télé, la dedans, une nouvelle preuve de l'indépendance et de la crédibilité de nos journalistes ................
Et tout ca, sous l'oeil bienveillant des notables locaux, complètement dévoyés dans ce système. (quoi qu'il y ait eu quelques soucis pour certains récemment !)
bonjour
bien sur que l'on doit prévenir les voyageurs en partance et surtout les femmes (trop sensibles🤪 )
mais en effet que faire contre les télés qui passent des reportages sur ces "séjours de rêve" sous les étoiles !
il y en avait 1 la semaine dernière, justement sur Zagora et le "bivouac sous les étoiles", pour les non initiés, bien sur c'est 1 "beau " piège !
l'ennui c'est que beaucoup de voyageurs ne consultent pas notre cher forum, mais bon il faut 1 première expérience, pour devenir ensuite des durs
a cuire !
bon séjour au Maroc
francia
Bonjour,
"l'ennui c'est que beaucoup de voyageurs ne consultent pas notre cher forum"
Non, je ne crois pas que le problème se situe là. Beaucoup de voyageurs consultent ce forum (voir les stats de François), et les forums sont devenus de fait une tribune médiatique très importante. Qui se priverait d'une telle audience? Difficile à gérer. Il faut vraiment compter sur la vigilance des membres pour mettre en garde les visiteurs du site contre des messages alléchants mais jamais argumentés, et signaler les manquements aux règles de fonctionement de vf. Je ne vois malheureusement pas d'autre solution.
Peut-être secouer certains nouveaux membres, inscrits pour trouver leur voyage plutôt que pour le préparer. Un séjour d'une semaine est une chose. Ne se libérer que quelques heures pour le préparer en est une autre. Rien ne vaut le contact, la comparaison, la discussion pour élaborer un projet qui correspond à nos attentes. Et ça prend du temps... Voyager vite, mais plus encore préparer vite... et si quelqu'un s'en charge à notre place, c'est encore mieux! Pratique de plus en plus visible ici. C'est regrettable. « Donne-moi un poisson ou apprends-moi à pêcher » comme disait l'autre... Ces pubs se nourrissent également de cette attitude consumériste.
Après, faut pas s'étonner...
Non, je ne crois pas que le problème se situe là. Beaucoup de voyageurs consultent ce forum (voir les stats de François), et les forums sont devenus de fait une tribune médiatique très importante. Qui se priverait d'une telle audience? Difficile à gérer. Il faut vraiment compter sur la vigilance des membres pour mettre en garde les visiteurs du site contre des messages alléchants mais jamais argumentés, et signaler les manquements aux règles de fonctionement de vf. Je ne vois malheureusement pas d'autre solution.
Peut-être secouer certains nouveaux membres, inscrits pour trouver leur voyage plutôt que pour le préparer. Un séjour d'une semaine est une chose. Ne se libérer que quelques heures pour le préparer en est une autre. Rien ne vaut le contact, la comparaison, la discussion pour élaborer un projet qui correspond à nos attentes. Et ça prend du temps... Voyager vite, mais plus encore préparer vite... et si quelqu'un s'en charge à notre place, c'est encore mieux! Pratique de plus en plus visible ici. C'est regrettable. « Donne-moi un poisson ou apprends-moi à pêcher » comme disait l'autre... Ces pubs se nourrissent également de cette attitude consumériste.
Après, faut pas s'étonner...
Log in first, then come back to this page.
You might also like
Spring getaway in search of Moroccan sunshine
Beautiful stops and sites discovered in Morocco in March
Trip to Morocco in September-October 2025, in our camper van
From Avignon to Casamance Without Flying
7 weeks and 150 years between us on a southern Morocco road trip
Family trip from Marrakech to the desert
Happy Valley or Ait Bougmez
18 days of bliss in Morocco!
More discussions
Hi, we're looking for a guide to show us around Essaouira.
We're 11 adults and don't want to go through an agency. If you have a contact to help us discover this city, that would be great!
Thanks
Hi there,
I’m heading back to Egypt for the first time in 30 years this July. Last time, I was 20, and we spent two weeks traveling on a shoestring as backpackers.
I’m wondering about a "cruise" on a felucca from Aswan—mainly to avoid being stuck in an air-conditioned tourist bubble (we’re already spending our first week in that setting with our diving club). We’d like to explore the most interesting stretch of the Nile between Aswan and Luxor. Do you have any thoughts on this option, tips, or maybe some contacts?
Thanks in advance!
Mathieu
I’m heading back to Egypt for the first time in 30 years this July. Last time, I was 20, and we spent two weeks traveling on a shoestring as backpackers.
I’m wondering about a "cruise" on a felucca from Aswan—mainly to avoid being stuck in an air-conditioned tourist bubble (we’re already spending our first week in that setting with our diving club). We’d like to explore the most interesting stretch of the Nile between Aswan and Luxor. Do you have any thoughts on this option, tips, or maybe some contacts?
Thanks in advance!
Mathieu
Hi there,
I was wondering if it’s possible to join a group as a solo traveler with local agencies in Djanet for circuits like Tadrart, Essendilene, Sefar, or Tassili? If you have any agencies to recommend, I’d love to hear about them. I didn’t find any info on the forum. Best,
Fouzi
I was wondering if it’s possible to join a group as a solo traveler with local agencies in Djanet for circuits like Tadrart, Essendilene, Sefar, or Tassili? If you have any agencies to recommend, I’d love to hear about them. I didn’t find any info on the forum. Best,
Fouzi
Hi there,
Here’s a first draft for a 14-night itinerary during the Christmas break with two teens. We’re especially fond of hiking (nothing too extreme, though), which is why we’re drawn to the south.
- Marrakech (2 nights) - Aït Ben Haddou (1 night) - Dadès (3 nights, though we’re thinking of doing a day trip to the Todra Gorge on one of those days) - M'hamid (1 night) - Erg Chigaga (1 night) - 4 nights to slot in - Marrakech (2 nights)
Okay, I realize this involves a lot of driving, and we’re still debating the return route since we’d like to avoid the Tichka Pass in January, but going through Taroudant seems like it would add *a lot* of time. 😕
If you’ve got other suggestions for an itinerary with great hikes, I’m all ears!
Also, the 4 nights total in MRK isn’t really our preference, but since we’re arriving/departing super early from overseas, we’d like to be a bit rested before the long flight.
Another question: For hikes (aside from the desert one), is it better to have a guide with us, or are the trails well-marked?
Thanks for your help!
Here’s a first draft for a 14-night itinerary during the Christmas break with two teens. We’re especially fond of hiking (nothing too extreme, though), which is why we’re drawn to the south.
- Marrakech (2 nights) - Aït Ben Haddou (1 night) - Dadès (3 nights, though we’re thinking of doing a day trip to the Todra Gorge on one of those days) - M'hamid (1 night) - Erg Chigaga (1 night) - 4 nights to slot in - Marrakech (2 nights)
Okay, I realize this involves a lot of driving, and we’re still debating the return route since we’d like to avoid the Tichka Pass in January, but going through Taroudant seems like it would add *a lot* of time. 😕
If you’ve got other suggestions for an itinerary with great hikes, I’m all ears!
Also, the 4 nights total in MRK isn’t really our preference, but since we’re arriving/departing super early from overseas, we’d like to be a bit rested before the long flight.
Another question: For hikes (aside from the desert one), is it better to have a guide with us, or are the trails well-marked?
Thanks for your help!
Hi everyone,
Our trip to Morocco will be from November 3 to 17, in the High Atlas.
Basically, our route would be:
Marrakech - Aït Benhaddou
Skoura - Tinghir - Merzouga
Merzouga via the N12 to Zagora
Zagora - Draa Valley - Marrakech
It seems to be the low season, so I’d love to travel without having to book accommodations in advance. In other countries, pre-booking has restricted us and kept us from visiting unplanned sites. Freedom is important to us, but I’d also like to avoid arriving somewhere and finding nothing available. What do you recommend? Book ahead or not? Your advice is always helpful, and thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this for me. Roberto
It seems to be the low season, so I’d love to travel without having to book accommodations in advance. In other countries, pre-booking has restricted us and kept us from visiting unplanned sites. Freedom is important to us, but I’d also like to avoid arriving somewhere and finding nothing available. What do you recommend? Book ahead or not? Your advice is always helpful, and thanks to anyone who can shed some light on this for me. Roberto
Hello to all Morocco lovers,
First of all: a big thank you to everyone whose insightful, funny, lively, and exotic posts we’ve enjoyed. It’s a joy to find such lovely writers on this forum, who’ve given me tons of ideas and addresses to prepare our trip.
Our plan: to explore Morocco from November 2nd to December 4th. We’ll have our own vehicle (a 2011 Renault Grand Scenic, in great condition), shipped with us from Sète to Tanger Med. Returning from Nador.
Our profile: 75 and 62 years young, so old but happy to be, in very good health. Seasoned travelers—it’s practically our whole life. Lovers of beautiful landscapes, historic sites, fine craftsmanship, and road trips. This will be my 3rd trip to Morocco, but the first two were 20 and 17 years ago. I’ve never been north of the Essaouira-Marrakech line (though I’ve gone further south). As for my husband, a lifelong expat including in Muslim countries, it’s his first time in Morocco.
He’s the one driving. He’s very experienced, cautious, not necessarily fast, but used to driving in all conditions (and countries, including the most creative on the road). But I don’t want to tire him out, and he no longer drives at night (and we’ll be there in November).
I’ve decided to show him a bit of everything by taking a road trip along beautiful backroads, with daily distances averaging 180-200 km (except on highways, which will be rare), regularly broken up by rest days. I’m counting on a speed of 40-50 km/h, plus stops/visits along the way.
Since I’ve read so many posts, I’ve narrowed it down to some very specific questions.
1) Coming directly from Rabat via the highway, we’d prefer to skip Marrakech*. Still, we’ll need to sleep somewhere nearby. We’ll head toward Skoura the next day. Does anyone have a well-located address for this route, possibly east of Marrakech? Ideally, we’re looking for a small town, easy parking, clean accommodation (minimum) with average comfort (or better if available), a bit heated, and if possible, pretty and/or nice—but above all, a place to sleep well, wash with lukewarm (ideally hot) water, and have a decent dinner.
(*Explanation for the "no-go" in Marrakech: it’s a shame, because there are truly beautiful things in this city, but I think the vibe won’t suit us—it’s an understatement for "it’ll put us off" / "make us flee" / "traumatize us." Not because it’s too crowded and we want to stand out from tourists (we’re part of them), but because of forced henna on your hand, or spending 10 minutes every quarter-hour saying "no thank you" to a "guide" who’s as much a guide as I am a trapeze artist. Knowing us, it’ll wear us down. The country is vast and beautiful, and our time too short to waste our memories just days after arriving. And I don’t want to ruin things for my peaceful husband, or he’ll demand we turn back—and Sète in November isn’t exactly thrilling either.)
2) Which route to Skoura (in 2 days)? I see two options: either via the Tichka Pass, with a night in Telouet before reaching Skoura, or via the R307/N23 from Demnate, with a night near Megdaz before descending to Skoura. So: Tichka Pass or R307/N23? I have a slight (big) preference for the second option, even though I know the other route is very beautiful too. Of course, before deciding, we’ll check the weather and the current state of the R307/N23—does anyone know where to get info on the road conditions? But even assuming the road is "passable," is it a bit too tough in itself? In short, is it reasonable? If a kind soul could share their experience, a thousand thanks in advance.
That’s all I’ve written for now. I’ll save the other questions for later posts. Thanks again to those who had the patience to read this and to those who can respond. Happy Sunday to all!
Fran
First of all: a big thank you to everyone whose insightful, funny, lively, and exotic posts we’ve enjoyed. It’s a joy to find such lovely writers on this forum, who’ve given me tons of ideas and addresses to prepare our trip.
Our plan: to explore Morocco from November 2nd to December 4th. We’ll have our own vehicle (a 2011 Renault Grand Scenic, in great condition), shipped with us from Sète to Tanger Med. Returning from Nador.
Our profile: 75 and 62 years young, so old but happy to be, in very good health. Seasoned travelers—it’s practically our whole life. Lovers of beautiful landscapes, historic sites, fine craftsmanship, and road trips. This will be my 3rd trip to Morocco, but the first two were 20 and 17 years ago. I’ve never been north of the Essaouira-Marrakech line (though I’ve gone further south). As for my husband, a lifelong expat including in Muslim countries, it’s his first time in Morocco.
He’s the one driving. He’s very experienced, cautious, not necessarily fast, but used to driving in all conditions (and countries, including the most creative on the road). But I don’t want to tire him out, and he no longer drives at night (and we’ll be there in November).
I’ve decided to show him a bit of everything by taking a road trip along beautiful backroads, with daily distances averaging 180-200 km (except on highways, which will be rare), regularly broken up by rest days. I’m counting on a speed of 40-50 km/h, plus stops/visits along the way.
Since I’ve read so many posts, I’ve narrowed it down to some very specific questions.
1) Coming directly from Rabat via the highway, we’d prefer to skip Marrakech*. Still, we’ll need to sleep somewhere nearby. We’ll head toward Skoura the next day. Does anyone have a well-located address for this route, possibly east of Marrakech? Ideally, we’re looking for a small town, easy parking, clean accommodation (minimum) with average comfort (or better if available), a bit heated, and if possible, pretty and/or nice—but above all, a place to sleep well, wash with lukewarm (ideally hot) water, and have a decent dinner.
(*Explanation for the "no-go" in Marrakech: it’s a shame, because there are truly beautiful things in this city, but I think the vibe won’t suit us—it’s an understatement for "it’ll put us off" / "make us flee" / "traumatize us." Not because it’s too crowded and we want to stand out from tourists (we’re part of them), but because of forced henna on your hand, or spending 10 minutes every quarter-hour saying "no thank you" to a "guide" who’s as much a guide as I am a trapeze artist. Knowing us, it’ll wear us down. The country is vast and beautiful, and our time too short to waste our memories just days after arriving. And I don’t want to ruin things for my peaceful husband, or he’ll demand we turn back—and Sète in November isn’t exactly thrilling either.)
2) Which route to Skoura (in 2 days)? I see two options: either via the Tichka Pass, with a night in Telouet before reaching Skoura, or via the R307/N23 from Demnate, with a night near Megdaz before descending to Skoura. So: Tichka Pass or R307/N23? I have a slight (big) preference for the second option, even though I know the other route is very beautiful too. Of course, before deciding, we’ll check the weather and the current state of the R307/N23—does anyone know where to get info on the road conditions? But even assuming the road is "passable," is it a bit too tough in itself? In short, is it reasonable? If a kind soul could share their experience, a thousand thanks in advance.
That’s all I’ve written for now. I’ll save the other questions for later posts. Thanks again to those who had the patience to read this and to those who can respond. Happy Sunday to all!
Fran
hi there,
I’m just a few days away from my trip to Marrakech—I’m leaving from November 13th to 20th and bringing my parents along! I’d love to plan my stay as best as I can, and I’m sure the forum crew can help. So, here are my questions:
- Where’s the best place to exchange money without getting ripped off? The owner of the riad where we’re staying told us to avoid doing it at the airport because it’s really expensive and to do it in the medina instead, near Jemaa el-Fna square.
- Which traditional hammams do you recommend that are reasonably priced? How much should we budget for one? That’ll help me plan my expenses.
- What are some nice restaurants in the medina?
- I’d also like to know roughly how much to expect for a tea, a meal, a taxi, a djellaba, and babouches. I don’t want to get overcharged and would like to know what to expect.
- What are the must-do activities and places to visit?
Thanks in advance for your help....
I’m just a few days away from my trip to Marrakech—I’m leaving from November 13th to 20th and bringing my parents along! I’d love to plan my stay as best as I can, and I’m sure the forum crew can help. So, here are my questions:
- Where’s the best place to exchange money without getting ripped off? The owner of the riad where we’re staying told us to avoid doing it at the airport because it’s really expensive and to do it in the medina instead, near Jemaa el-Fna square.
- Which traditional hammams do you recommend that are reasonably priced? How much should we budget for one? That’ll help me plan my expenses.
- What are some nice restaurants in the medina?
- I’d also like to know roughly how much to expect for a tea, a meal, a taxi, a djellaba, and babouches. I don’t want to get overcharged and would like to know what to expect.
- What are the must-do activities and places to visit?
Thanks in advance for your help....
Hi
I’d like to know if the road between Msemrir and Tamttatouchte is doable with a standard car (Dacia Logan).
Thanks a lot
hi,
I’m looking for a country to visit for 10 days in February.
What do you recommend for a trip with some sunshine, hiking, and sightseeing?
Thanks for your help
Thanks for your help
Hi, I’d like to head to Morocco next week with my car. I’ve looked online at all the different info about the ferry crossing to Tangier, but I’m finding it really expensive. Is there a way to buy tickets in Spain? Or another way to get the Algeciras–Tangier crossing cheaper? Thanks for any tips or info!
Hi there,
We found a guide who offers the trip from M'hamid to a camp (departure at 3 PM, tea, meal, camel ride, overnight stay, breakfast, and return to M'Hamid by 11 AM the next day via the sacred oasis). He quoted us a price of 380 € for April. What do you think of this rate? This might sound like a silly question, but is it common to negotiate the price for this kind of thing (we're booking from France)? It’s still a big part of our travel budget.
Thanks
We found a guide who offers the trip from M'hamid to a camp (departure at 3 PM, tea, meal, camel ride, overnight stay, breakfast, and return to M'Hamid by 11 AM the next day via the sacred oasis). He quoted us a price of 380 € for April. What do you think of this rate? This might sound like a silly question, but is it common to negotiate the price for this kind of thing (we're booking from France)? It’s still a big part of our travel budget.
Thanks
Hi there,
We're planning to visit Egypt between January 25 and February 15, 2027. I looked up the Ramadan dates and found some sites saying it starts on February 8, while others say February 18... Where's the mistake?
Thanks,
Christian
Hi there,
We’re a family of 4 with two boys aged 12 and 10 traveling to Egypt in February.
We’re spending 3 days in Cairo to take our time exploring the city and the sites before heading south.
-Is it necessary to have a guide to visit the GEM? Are audio guides available? -Do you have any contacts for drivers to organize a few transfers (Giza, Saqqara, Airport)? -Do you know a French-speaking guide who’s friendly, family-friendly, and good at making things exciting, with reasonable prices?
Marie
-Is it necessary to have a guide to visit the GEM? Are audio guides available? -Do you have any contacts for drivers to organize a few transfers (Giza, Saqqara, Airport)? -Do you know a French-speaking guide who’s friendly, family-friendly, and good at making things exciting, with reasonable prices?
Marie
Hi there!
With our two teens, we’re heading to Morocco for two weeks at the end of December and beginning of January. It’ll be our first trip that’s more "off the beaten path," even though we’ve visited several countries before. Given the overwhelming amount of info, I’m feeling a bit swamped with the prep this trip requires, and I’ll admit I’m a little lost when it comes to figuring out what’s realistic to visit in two weeks 😕 So, all your tips, personal experiences, and suggestions are more than welcome!
- Which places should we prioritize during this time of year? (I’ve read that some spots are less accessible in winter?) - What’s the best way to get around? (rental car, train, private transport, buses, etc.? — just a heads-up, we’ll have a few suitcases!) - In terms of "safety," are there any areas to avoid? - Any recommendations for reliable local tour companies (beyond the big names like "Get Your Guide") that offer excursions or private transport to help us explore the country? - A doable 2-week itinerary that lets us enjoy the country’s diversity without having to change accommodations every two days?
Thanks so much for your advice!
With our two teens, we’re heading to Morocco for two weeks at the end of December and beginning of January. It’ll be our first trip that’s more "off the beaten path," even though we’ve visited several countries before. Given the overwhelming amount of info, I’m feeling a bit swamped with the prep this trip requires, and I’ll admit I’m a little lost when it comes to figuring out what’s realistic to visit in two weeks 😕 So, all your tips, personal experiences, and suggestions are more than welcome!
- Which places should we prioritize during this time of year? (I’ve read that some spots are less accessible in winter?) - What’s the best way to get around? (rental car, train, private transport, buses, etc.? — just a heads-up, we’ll have a few suitcases!) - In terms of "safety," are there any areas to avoid? - Any recommendations for reliable local tour companies (beyond the big names like "Get Your Guide") that offer excursions or private transport to help us explore the country? - A doable 2-week itinerary that lets us enjoy the country’s diversity without having to change accommodations every two days?
Thanks so much for your advice!
Hi everyone,
I’m planning a trip to the High Atlas in Morocco and have a few questions for you: - Why do so many people recommend avoiding international agencies for car rentals? Can anyone explain why? - Is Booking.com reliable, and has anyone rented a vehicle through their service? There’s a pretty big price difference compared to local Moroccan agencies. - Is there a detailed road map included in the rental car? - Is Google Maps enough to get around the High Atlas? This will be my first trip there.
Thanks so much to anyone who can help with this destination I’ve been dreaming about for years. Have a great evening, Roberto
I’m planning a trip to the High Atlas in Morocco and have a few questions for you: - Why do so many people recommend avoiding international agencies for car rentals? Can anyone explain why? - Is Booking.com reliable, and has anyone rented a vehicle through their service? There’s a pretty big price difference compared to local Moroccan agencies. - Is there a detailed road map included in the rental car? - Is Google Maps enough to get around the High Atlas? This will be my first trip there.
Thanks so much to anyone who can help with this destination I’ve been dreaming about for years. Have a great evening, Roberto
hi, I just wanted to know the exchange rate for euros in Tunisia, thanks
hi there, I’m heading to Tunisia 🙂 from April 27 to May 8 with my family. I’ve read through the various discussions about the country, but I’m still a bit unsure🤪: for currency exchange, I saw on the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs website that withdrawing currency with a bank card from ATMs is limited to 200 TND per week. There are four of us traveling by car, so that might be a bit tight! And it’s a hassle to carry a lot of cash, even if I’m not being paranoid! What do you all recommend?
Cheers,
Laurent.
We're planning a 2-week trip in late February/early March for a road trip in the High Atlas with a rental car, and we'd love to avoid booking our accommodations in advance. Is that doable, easily manageable, or risky (are accommodations available, expensive, or not great)? Thanks for your tips!
Annie
Hi,
This autumn, we’re planning to explore the Oriental region and we’re wondering where the best place to land would be. We’ll have three weeks ahead of us and we’ll be renting a car.
Any tips would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Is there an official website or list of certified Egyptologist guides in Egypt? And most importantly, what are the normal prices for a full day or half day? There’s so much scamming and crazy pricing—depending on who you contact, it can range from simple to quadruple!!!!
Thanks
Hello,
In September, my wife and I, along with another couple, will be traveling to Tunisia and staying at the Sheherasade Hotel near Sousse.
We’d love to hear your recommendations or tips on places to visit, as well as advice on taxis or other transportation options.
Thanks in advance!
Hi there, 🙂
This autumn’s trip should be in Morocco—barring any geopolitical issues between now and then.
After many trips to the south of Fès, I’m giving the north a try.
My plan is roughly to do a road trip loop from Rabat back to Rabat, passing through Asilah, Tangier, Tétouan, Chefchaouen, Akchour, Fès, Meknès, and Volubilis.
That’s a lot of cities. Probably a bit too many for our taste—we usually prefer more isolated spots...
So I’m looking for tips on little backroads, secluded beaches, half-day hikes, and offbeat places.
If you’ve also got recommendations for accommodation... (We’re open to splurging over 100 € if it’s a real favorite.)
Feel free to think outside the box—this is an open-ended plan! !😉
Thanks
This autumn’s trip should be in Morocco—barring any geopolitical issues between now and then.
After many trips to the south of Fès, I’m giving the north a try.
My plan is roughly to do a road trip loop from Rabat back to Rabat, passing through Asilah, Tangier, Tétouan, Chefchaouen, Akchour, Fès, Meknès, and Volubilis.
That’s a lot of cities. Probably a bit too many for our taste—we usually prefer more isolated spots...
So I’m looking for tips on little backroads, secluded beaches, half-day hikes, and offbeat places.
If you’ve also got recommendations for accommodation... (We’re open to splurging over 100 € if it’s a real favorite.)
Feel free to think outside the box—this is an open-ended plan! !😉
Thanks
Based on your experiences, do you have a professional to recommend?
Hello,
I’m looking for testimonials from Pieds-Noirs who have recently returned to Algeria.
There can’t be many left after 65 years of the country’s independence.
I’m planning to go back myself soon to reconnect with my roots... before I pass away...
I’ve started making a few pre-bookings for hotels and apartments to rent in Algiers. At first, I received friendly and welcoming responses. Then, when I mentioned I wanted to stay for two or three weeks—maybe even a month—explaining that my trip wouldn’t be strictly touristy but more of a pilgrimage to the places of my childhood, and that it would likely be a very emotional journey, I expected a positive and warm reaction to my approach. Instead, I suddenly stopped getting replies from the three or four people I’d contacted. So now I’m wondering about the reception former Pieds-Noirs can expect...
Anyone here who can share their experience of returning? I specified “recently” because it seems that right now, diplomatic relations between the two governments are extremely tense, not to say hostile... even if Macron claims otherwise...
There can’t be many left after 65 years of the country’s independence.
I’m planning to go back myself soon to reconnect with my roots... before I pass away...
I’ve started making a few pre-bookings for hotels and apartments to rent in Algiers. At first, I received friendly and welcoming responses. Then, when I mentioned I wanted to stay for two or three weeks—maybe even a month—explaining that my trip wouldn’t be strictly touristy but more of a pilgrimage to the places of my childhood, and that it would likely be a very emotional journey, I expected a positive and warm reaction to my approach. Instead, I suddenly stopped getting replies from the three or four people I’d contacted. So now I’m wondering about the reception former Pieds-Noirs can expect...
Anyone here who can share their experience of returning? I specified “recently” because it seems that right now, diplomatic relations between the two governments are extremely tense, not to say hostile... even if Macron claims otherwise...
Hello,
I’m traveling to Algeria from October 27 to November 16, 2026.
I’d love to hear from anyone who’s been through the process about the accommodation attestation required for the visa application:
- Does it need to cover the entire duration of the trip?
- Is this document mandatory for a hotel to rent a room?
- Is it checked during inspections?
- Is a hotel booking (e.g., via Booking.com) sufficient for the visa?
- If so, does it need to be paid in advance?
I plan to visit several cities and do one or more treks with a guide or agency. If you have any contacts you’d recommend, I’d be grateful!
Also, I’d love to share this trip with a companion who’s already done some traveling. We’d organize the journey together, of course.
Thanks for your feedback! Safe travels to all, Dom, Dijon, 64 years old
I plan to visit several cities and do one or more treks with a guide or agency. If you have any contacts you’d recommend, I’d be grateful!
Also, I’d love to share this trip with a companion who’s already done some traveling. We’d organize the journey together, of course.
Thanks for your feedback! Safe travels to all, Dom, Dijon, 64 years old
Hi there,
I’m leaving for Tunisia in five weeks for a full 15-day trip. I’ll be arriving in Monastir and departing from there as well.
I’d like to do a route that’s a bit different from my first stay, which was more focused on cities and culture (Tunis, Sousse, Kairouan, El Jem).
I’ll be getting around by public transport.
I’d like to head south toward Tozeur, and I saw that you can take a *louage* from Monastir to Sbeitla (2h30). I imagine it’s not too complicated to get to Tozeur from there afterward? The issue is the return trip to Monastir and safety in Sbeitla.
If this route seems too complicated, I might opt for Djerba instead, which looks simpler.
Thanks in advance.
I’m leaving for Tunisia in five weeks for a full 15-day trip. I’ll be arriving in Monastir and departing from there as well.
I’d like to do a route that’s a bit different from my first stay, which was more focused on cities and culture (Tunis, Sousse, Kairouan, El Jem).
I’ll be getting around by public transport.
I’d like to head south toward Tozeur, and I saw that you can take a *louage* from Monastir to Sbeitla (2h30). I imagine it’s not too complicated to get to Tozeur from there afterward? The issue is the return trip to Monastir and safety in Sbeitla.
If this route seems too complicated, I might opt for Djerba instead, which looks simpler.
Thanks in advance.
Hi, I'm looking for a taxi from Dakhla airport to downtown Dakhla.
If you know a contact ?????
Hi there,
I’m looking for info about driving a vehicle in Tunisia.
Is it complicated?
Do I need an international driver’s permit?
Thanks for your help
Hi there,
I’m heading to Morocco in September 2026, and part of my trip takes me through Merzouga. I’m looking for a 4x4 driver-guide to explore the area with my partner and me.
Any recommendations?
Have a great day
I’m heading to Morocco in September 2026, and part of my trip takes me through Merzouga. I’m looking for a 4x4 driver-guide to explore the area with my partner and me.
Any recommendations?
Have a great day