Overview
Our Kasbah to Coast ride takes in the best of what Morocco has to offer, taking you on a journey from the ancient Ksar of Ait Benhaddou to the Amazigh fishing villages of Sidi Kaouki.
We will start in Ait Benhaddou where we will discover the ancient caravan routes of the nomadic spice traders on route to the trading hub of Marrakech. We will explore the ancient ksar now a UNESCO world heritage site and catch a glimpse of cinematic history as we pass the set of Gladitor.
After taking a break from riding as to explore the medina of Marrakech we will head to Sidi Kaouki, an Amazigh fishing town now famous for surfing. The long stretches of secluded sandy beaches to the south are riders paradise.
Ride Information
7 Nights / 8 Days / 6 Riding Days
Cost: From £2000 pp sharing, Single person supplement: £250.
Where: Ait Benhaddou, Marrakech and Sidi Kaouki Morocco
When: Dates available Jan 2024 to June 2024 and September 2024 to June 2025
Riding level: Advanced, you must be able to control your horse cantering and galloping in open spaces in english saddles.
Riders: Maximum 8 riders in a private group, max group is usually six riders.
Weight limit: Maximum of 90kg
Time in the saddle: 1.5 - 6 hours a day
Highlights
Multi centred ride showing the best of what Morocco has to offer
Follow ancient spice caravan trails in Ait Benhaddou
Explore the souks of Marrakech's old medina
Gallop along miles of secluded sandy beaches in Sidi Kaouki
Well schooled Arab and Barb stallions
Moroccan cuisine prepared from fresh local produce
Luxury accommodation
Opportunity to learn about the Amazigh culture
Opportunity to ride bareback in the ocean (conditions dependent)
Horses and Riding
Our horses are all well schooled Arab and Barb stallions. They are strong and forward going but very kind in nature. Experienced riders can enjoy a fast paced ride, with lots of opportunity to canter and gallop. The are equipped with English style tack and saddle bags.
This holiday is best enjoyed by intermediate and advanced riders, for the best experience we recommend that you are comfortable riding at all three paces and confident in riding a forward going horse over open ground. A level of physical / ride fitness is also required.
Ait Benhaddou
The area of Ait Ben Haddou is home to ancient caravan routes used by the Saharan nomads to reach the trading centre of Marrakesh. Follow in their footsteps and explore the incredible landscapes the region has to offer whilst immersing yourself in Berber nomad culture.
The riding covers around 25km each day and takes in a variety of different landscapes, giving you a great introduction to the region of Ourazazate. Over the course of your trek we will ride through the over mountains, through the green valleys, across the desert and through palm lined oasis.
The riding covers a variety of terrain and there is plenty of opportunity for long stretches of trot and canter.
Sidi Kaouki
The riding from Sidi Kaouki covers upto 25km each day and takes in a variety of different landscapes, giving you a great introduction to the Essaouira region. Over the course of your trek we will ride through the Argan forests, along the rugged coastline, through Berber villages, across the sand dunes, Essaouiras mini Sahara and of course along the long stretches of sandy beaches.
The riding covers a variety of terrain from gravel paths, rocky inclines, deep sand and long stretches of secluded sandy beach. There is plenty of opportunity for long stretches of trot and canter.
Day 1 - Arrival
You will be collected from the airport by our driver and transported to your accommodation in Ait Benhaddou. We will be staying at a beautiful riad 15minutes walk from the centre of Ait Benhaddou.
We will enjoy welcome drinks on the terrace under the stars.
Day 2
After a delicious breakfast we will head to meet our horses and head out riding for the day. Your guide Hassan will take us to explore the Caves of Tamdakhte.
We will set off through the lush green valley and follow the river towards the village of Tazleft. Along the way we will pass through areas brimming with greenery and almond trees. We will then reach the caves of Tamdakhte, where we will stop for lunch. We will enjoy some traditional Moroccan cuisine prepared by a woman from the local village and have the opportunity to explore the caves.
After lunch we will start our return to the ranch, we will pass through the village of Tamdakhte, along the Oued Elmaleh and climb the hillside for incredible views of the region. We will finish the ride by visiting an ancient religious site and the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou where we will explore the labyrinth of colourful streets in this UNESCO world heritage site.
After having some tea with our guide and his family, we will return to our hotel to freshen up before enjoying a delicious meal at our hotel.
Day 3
Today Hassan will guide us to Ifri N Ifrkhans.
We will set off from the ranch on the beautiful tracks towards Timdline. Before arriving in Timdline, we turn off towards the new village of Aguilal. We cross the Oued Elmaleh and discover some very special geological features, before heading off into the desert.
We will have lunch in a secluded oasis among the palm trees, where we may meet shepherd and his animals.
We get back on horseback and our mounts will take us through the desert and over a rocky summit, where we will have incredible views of the region. We stop at a well to give the horses something to drink before returning to the sables.
We will head back to our accomodation to freshen up to enjoy some time exploring the Ksar before dinner at our hotel.
Day 4
Today we will be heading to Marrakesh, but before we depart we will enjoy a short sunrise ride.
On the way to Marrakech we will stop for some lunch and the opportunity to absorb some of the incredible scenery through the high Atlas. On arrival in Marrakech we will check into our riad and have some time to relax before taking an evening tour of the medina and the markets.
Day 5
Today you will have some free time in the morning to explore the medina of Marrakech before we head to Sidi Kaouki just after lunch. We will check into our villa accommodation and head to the stables to have a sunset ride on the beach.
Day 6
Today after breakfast, our guide Mohamed will take us to explore the Cascades of Sidi M'Barak.
We will enjoy long stretches of sandy beaches, epic sand dunes and before stopping near to the cascades for a picnic lunch. We will follow the river slightly inland and ride through the argan forests before returning to the beach for tea in a local fishermans hut and a final canter.
In the evening we will enjoy a traditional moroccan meal at our accommodation.
Day 7
Today Mohamed will guide us in land to explore the countryside of Argana. We will pass through Amazigh villages and argan forests along sandy tracks which provide lots of opportunities to trot and canter. We will stop at an Argan co-operative where we will learn about the production of Argan oil and have some tea with the women who work there. We might even have the opportunity to hear some Amazigh music too.
Tonight, our final night we will enjoy a Moroccan evening with delicious food, traditional music, the opportunity to wear some beautiful traditional clothes and even some henna.
Day 8 - Departure
Today is departure day and you will be transported back to the airport by our driver. For those who have flights later in the day there is the opportunity to have a short beach ride in the morning.
Itinerary
Accomodation
Ait Benhaddou
In Ait Benhaddou we will be staying in a beautiful hotel just outside of the Kasbah. It offers incredible views of the ancient town, the Atlas mountains and the oasis. The terrace is the perfect place to star gaze with a night cap.
The hotel is built in the traditional style in keeping with the local area. The decoration is a blend of modern elegance and Amazigh touches.
The onsite restaurant is well known for offering delicious Moroccan food in an elegant setting.
Marrakech
Our accomodation in Marrakech is a stunning just outside of the medina, close to all the attractions but in a peaceful location that allows for a restful nights sleep. This traditional riad has been beautifully restored retaining many original features such as intricately carved wooden doors. The riad is privatized for our use with a chef coming in the morning to prepare breakfast.
Sidi Kaouki
In Sidi Kaouki we will be staying in a modern villa with a swimming pool. Despite being of new construction features such as the beldi tiles and tadelekt plaster in the bathrooms give the rooms a traditional feel.
All of the rooms open out on the pool area and have stunning views towards the ocean....the sunset is not to be missed!
Next Departures
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Additional Information
Price
From £2000 pp sharing, Single person supplement: £250.
Whats Included
Your horse riding holiday is all inclusive. It includes all meals and drinks (soft drinks only), accommodation as outlined in the description and transfers.
Not Included
The price does not include international flights, additional activities, transportation from other cities in Morocco (can be arranged) and travel insurance. Additional drinks and any alcoholic drinks are payable locally.
Safety
Helmets are not compulsory for this ride, however we strongly recommend that one is worn at all times when working with horses. We also suggest that you check the terms of your insurance policy before making a decision.
Helmets are available, however for your own comfort we recommend bringing your own.
Food
A traditional Moroccan breakfast is served daily which includes breads, jams, honey, cheese and eggs. We also serve seasonal fruits, oatmeal and yogurt.
Lunch varies during our rides. On most days we will have a picnic lunch and BBQ over open fire (when safe to light). Some days we will stop at local restaurants. Usually lunch is a selection of fresh grilled meats or fish, vegetables and salads.
Dinner is usually traditional Moroccan cuisine. We prepare various styles of tagine, cous cous, grilled fish and more. If there is a Moroccan dish you are desperate to try make sure to let us know!
All of our meals are made using fresh, local and seasonal produce. If cooking is your thing we are more than happy for you help us with the preparation and learn some Moroccan dishes.
We can cater for most dietary restrictions, but please do let us know at the time of booking.
Our hotel in Ait Benhaddou serves alcohol however it is not available in the other locations. We are unable to supply this, however it can be purchased from off licences or brought with you. Please note that during Ramadan and other religious holidays off licences will close and many restaurants will stop serving alcohol.
What to wear
You will receive a full packing list for your ride around 6 weeks before departure. The temperature can change dramatically throughout the day in Morocco and so for all our trips we recommend packing light layers that can be easily added and removed throughout the day.
Optional Extras
Morocco has a huge amount to offer. We can arrange anything from camel rides to cooking classes to cooking classes, our activities page has a full list of options.
Massage and Hammam are great options to recover from long days in the saddle.
We are also able to arrange additional nights stays and much more.