7 Days – Once a Year (usually in June)

The Essaouira Gnaoua and World Music Festival celebrates the mysterious music of the Gnaouas and other worldwide rhythms. Originating through a cross-pollination of African magic and Islamic rituals, mesmerizing Gnaoua rhythms of drums and other instruments lead performers into a trance-like state. This annual festival is held in Essaouira, a picturesque port painted in blue and white that is the ideal resort of which most travelers dream: laid-back and yet vibrant, atmospheric yet relaxing. In this extraordinary melting pot of music, jazz, rock, and world musicians create original fusions on stage and share their musical cultures. Festival performances are in afternoons and evenings, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the idyllic charm of Essaouira by day.

Your musical journey begins with welcome by your private driver upon your arrival at Marrakech, an ancient city of weathered pink buildings and orange groves at the base of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. Spend the afternoon with a private guide as you explore fascinating local souks (markets), ancient palaces, and lush gardens. Be sure to visit the Djemaa el-Fna, a carnivalesque public square where water sellers, snake charmers, magicians, and storytellers compete for an audience. Depart in the morning for the seaside town of Essaouira and home to the Gnaoua Festival. A former Portuguese settlement in the 18th century, Essaouira overlooks an emerald sea where windsurfers frolic near the fringe of silvery beach and camels ferry passengers across fine sand. Dine at the fish market where you can select your fish to be grilled before your eyes. Explore the old fortress ramparts, browse artisan shops, or dream on the beach. Soak in the atmosphere that has been an inspiration since the 1960s for music legends from the Rolling Stones to Cat Stevens to Jimmy Hendrix, who composed Castles in the Sand on Essaouira’s beaches. Today the town continues to lure musicians and artists alike to the sparkling whitewashed fishing village trimmed with the brilliant azure of its skies. Depart at the conclusion of the festival, or extend your visit to discover many more of Morocco’s delights.

Accommodations on this tour:

Marrakesh: Riad Kniza or Villa des Orangers or La Maison Arabe
Essaouira: L’Heure Bleue Palais or Madada Mogador
The hotels and riads listed are an example; you will stay there or somewhere of similar quality.

Cost:

$4180 per person based on 2 people on your party.

• We can craft the trip based on your budget and pace. If you can imagine it, we can make it happen!
• The trip can be altered to lower budget.

Features of this trip:

• Private guided travel with English-speaking driver (not a group tour)
• Itinerary can be customized based on your interest and budget. Also, you can lengthen or shorten the trip.
• Once a year (usually in June )
• Designed for luxury Class (5* accommodation and services).
• Group discounts available
• 7-day trip begins in Marrakesh and ends in Marrakesh
• 6 nights luxury-class and best-available hotels or riads
• Activities: cultural connections, UNESCO World Heritage sites, exploration, stunning Berber villages, seaside towns, Atlas mountains, meet Nomads and Berbers, souks and shopping, handicraft production, formal gardens, historical sites, sightseeing, walking, authentic local culture
• Activity level: Easy to Challenging, depending on your preference.