Trip Notes PEAKS AND VALLEYS OF THE ATLAS HIGHLIGHTS SUMMARY IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU?

Transcription

1 Trip Notes Trip Code: TMT Country: Morocco Amended: September 2013 Edition No: MRD Valid from: 01 Jan Dec 2014 PEAKS AND VALLEYS OF THE ATLAS HIGHLIGHTS Conquer three peaks over 4000m including an ascent of North Africa's highest mountain, Mt Toubkal Explore varied scenery from every peak and valley of the High Atlas Mountains Trekking through remote villages and discover the traditional Berber way of life Soak up the vibrancy and culture of the magical city of Marrakech SUMMARY The Atlas Mountains of Morocco has some of the finest trekking to be found anywhere in the world. For many the most rewarding is the High Atlas with its incredible scenery. On this trip you will explore popular areas of the range such as Toubkal and the Ourika Valley and the more remote and stunningly beautiful areas that fewer Western tourists trek, such as the Tinzart Valley. Morocco's immense mountain landscapes vary from region to region, even from valley to valley; from red mud villages with almond and walnut trees clinging onto irrigation channels, high summer pastures, Neolithic rock carvings and the moon-like plateaux, with high peaks towering above. For many conquering the ascent of Jebel Toubkal, Jebel Ouanakrim and Jebel Adrar n'dern, all over 4000m, is the ultimate goal. However, this trip is far more than just peak bagging. As you trek through the mountains you will be struck by the vibrancy of life that can be found in even the remotest of valleys. There is a rich culture of the welcoming Berber inhabitants who occupy the tiny, cliff-hanging villages you will come across as you walk. These communities offer you an insight into the primitive and hardy way of life led in this mountainous region. Marrakech lies in a plain just to the north of the High Atlas Range. In the winter months it enjoys a warm, dry, crisp climate, and in the mornings and evenings the snow-clad summits of Toubkal and surrounding mountains rise majestically on the horizon, shimmering in the clear air and providing a magnificent backdrop to this exotic city. The 'Pink City' is the start and end point of the week and the perfect place to try the traditional cuisine such couscous, tagine and pastille and try out your bargaining skills with the locals! Explore the souks, palaces and alley ways of this frenetic city so at odds with the tranquil isolation of the High Atlas. IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU? Point to point walking and camping are the best options to help us cover more remote regions of the High Atlas as well as the frequentlyvisited sections. Please note all nights camping are in wild camps as no official campsites exist in the areas we visit. On the treks we use mules to carry personal gear so only a light daypack is required, occasionally with a share of the picnic lunch. Out of eleven days walking (with full porterage), four are considered less demanding due to the duration of the walk and the terrain. The three ascent days are considered a high C grade. Although this trip is not technically difficult, you should be an experienced walker as trails can be very rough and stony and the trek passes through some primitive areas. A lot of the walking is at some altitude on mule trails or piste, and the sun can be very fierce in the summer. The temperature at a particular time of year can make a difference to how tough this trek feels. Please note that Morocco can get very hot during the summer months of July and August and departures during this time may not be suitable if you struggle with the heat. Be prepared as well for some stormy weather during the summer. The ascents of Mt Toubkal and Mt Adrar n'dern are non-technical and no special equipment is required during the summer months. Jebel Ouanakrim requires a small amount of scrambling near the summit Exodus Travels Grange Mills, Weir Road, London SW12 0NE Sales & Reservations: sales@exodus.co.uk

2 and is optional. If any of the high peaks are covered in snow and ice later in the season (which is rare but can happen) an ascent will not be attempted. Although unlikely, it may be necessary for trips at the beginning and end of the season to be modified if snow blocks some of the higher passes. If this happens we will ensure that the trip remains as close to the original itinerary as possible in both content and grade. We always strive to make a summit attempt of Mt Toubkal regardless of alterations to the itinerary. We also advise before departure if extra equipment, (such as crampons) is necessary. Altitude maximum 4167m, average 2600m. Altitude Warning - This trip goes to high altitudes where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. Please refer to the Altitude Three nights are spent over 3000m in the most basic mountain refuge throughout the trip given the remoteness of the location. Our hotel in Marrakech is of a good standard and usually has a swimming pool to help relax after a challenging trek.warning below for further information. Please note Ramadan runs from 28th June to 27 July During Ramadan, our local guides and drivers choose to work and so we continue to run trips in this period. However, it does need to be recognised that the energy levels of our local staff may be a bit lower and that some restaurants may be closed during the day. Having said this, Ramadan is a unique time to visit a Muslim country - each evening the streets empty for an hour while everyone breaks their fast, and there's a feeling of festivity in the air every night. Day 4 Adrar N'Oukaimeden Today we summit Adrar N'Oukaimeden (3257m). We start the descent to Tachedirt following the Tizi N'Eddi pass (2928m). Ous accommodation for this evening is a beautiful mountainside gite that dominates the Imnane valley. Tea will be served on the immense terrace of the gite with time to soak up the panoramic views. 6 hours walking, Alt gain 790m, Alt loss 1250m BH (BLD) Day 5 Tizi N'Likemt A quite demanding walk today as we start our ascent to the Tizi N'Likemt pass (3615m). After the pass, we continue for another 2h descent to the pastures of Likemt (2600m). Our camp for the night is close to the river where we can enjoy some al-fresco dinner whilst enjoying the peace of the mountains. 6 ½ hours walking, Alt gain 1324m, Alt loss 1100m FC (BLD) Day 6 Ascent of Adrar n'dern We make an early start in order to summit the first of our 4000m peaks, Jebel Adrar n'dern (4001m). We walk to the summer pastureland of Adouz Azibs through magnificent wild mountain landscapes rarely frequented by tourists. On the summit we are rewarded with splendid views over the Toubkal and the Siroua Massifs before finally descending to Aourai Camp (300m). When there are strong winds, this can be considered the most difficult peak to summit due to the exposure of the route. Those who choose not to do this peak can enjoy a gentle 3-hour walk with the muleteers to the next camp. 8 hours walking, Alt gain 1250m, Alt loss 1000m FC (BLD) Day 7 Tizgui Valley & Amsouzart We walk up to the Aourai Pass through a volcanic landscape. From here we can see as far as the Sahro range in southern Morocco and Toubkal is clearly visible as well. We descend towards the verdant valley of Tizgui and continue to our destination, the village of Amsouzart at 1700m. In the afternoon there is the opportunity to walk to the neighbouring village and water mill. Tonight we stay in a simple mountain gîte with a shop selling all sorts of treats such as chocolate and fresh orange juice. (Note: the gite does have solar power for lighting but no power points for recharging batteries). There may also be the opportunity to try out a Hammam (Moroccan steam bath). LAND ONLY ITINERARY The entries in bold at the end of each day indicate the type of accommodation normally used (if different standards of accommodation are used - see accommodation section below for key to codes), and meals included (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). Day 1 Start Marrakech Depending on your arrival time, there may be some time for self exploration of this wonderfully colourful city. CH Day 2 Ait Stimane After breakfast, we head out of Marrakech by private minibus to the beautiful Ourika valley. We meet our mules and muleteers towards the entrance of the Agadir N'Ait Boulmane gorge.we start our trek by following the river, passing numerous small villages until we get to Timichi, our camp for the night. 4 1/2 hours walking, Alt gain 400m FC (BD) Day 3 Azib Tiferguine We start today's walk zig-zagging uphill through a forest to the Azib Tiferguine pasture land. This area is only inhabited during the summer months when the Berber people move into the higher pastures to allow their animals to graze. In the winter, these mountain pastures are often cut off by snow for weeks at a time. As we continue through the red and ochre landscape the vegetation gradually becomes more sparse. We pass several azibs (summer sheepfolds) and check out some of the wonderful Neolithic rock carvings. 6 hours walking, Alt gain 1200m, Alt loss 600m FC (BLD) 4 hours walking (plus the pm walk), Alt gain 100m, Alt loss 1350m BH (BLD) Day 8 Lac d'ifni After crossing the beautiful valley of Ait Ighrane and ascending alongside the river, we arrive at Lac d'ifni (2300m). This is an idyllic spot encircled by towering mountains and we camp close to the lake. There may be the opportunity to take a swim (weather permitting) although this must be reserved for the very brave as at this height, the water is very cold. 5 hours walking, Alt gain 600m FC (BLD) Day 9 Toubkal Base Camp We make our way up the Ouanoums Gorge on steep hairpin paths to the 3680m pass of Tizi n'ouanoums. From here we have superb views back over Lac d'ifni and forward towards Jebel Bouiguinoussem (4025m). We then start our descent to the Toubkal Base Camp at 3207m, where we will be spending the next two nights. 7 hours walking, Alt gain 1400m, Alt loss 500m BH (BLD) Day 10 Ascent of Jebel Toubkal Today we take on another challenging 4000m peak, Jebel Toubkal. At 4167m, it is the highest mountain in North Africa. The route is nontechnical although there may be some sections of snow and scree along the way but these are safe to cross. The view from the summit is truly breathtaking, as you can see the entire Toubkal Massif, the Siroua Massif and, on clear days, all the way to Marrakech. By far, the most rewarding of all achievements over the last nine days. 6 hours walking, Alt gain 967m, Alt loss 967m BH (BLD) 2

3 Day 11 Ascent of Jebel Ouanakrim Our final challenge is the last of our three 4000m peaks, Jebel Ouanakrim at 4088m. Although this is generally a non-technical ascent, there will be a section towards the summit where you will need to use your hands for mins of scrambling. Anyone who doesn't wish to undertake this ascent can instead do part of the trek up to the col of Tizi n'ougan (3750m) and return to camp along the same route (3½ hours round trip +/-600m). We retrace our steps to Base Camp and, after lunch, continue our descent to Aremd (1900m) for a welcome shower and night in a gîte. 8-9 hours walking, Alt gain 888m, Alt loss 2188m BH (BLD) Day 12 Azzaden Valley We leave Aremd & the Ait Mizane valley behind up towards the Tizi N'Mzik pass at 2500m for the red-soiled Azzaden valley, a beautiful valley known for its juniper & redwood forests. 5 ½ hours walking, Alt gain 485m, Alt loss 550m FC (BLD) Day 13 Ourigane Nature Reserve and Marrakech From Tizi Oussem we head down the valley into the green of the Ouirgane Nature Reserve, where olive & almond trees are abound, the scent of wild lavender & mimosa fills the air. We say goodbye to our muleteers and cooks before boarding the minibus for a transfer back to Marrakech. Overnight in hotel. Free evening to explore the city. Alternatively, you may choose to have a well-deserved swim in the hotel pool after our impressive feat across peaks and valleys. 4 hours walking, Alt loss 550m CH (B) Day 14 Marrakech In the morning we have a guided tour (on foot) to some of the main sights of Marrakech and the afternoon is free for you to further explore this vibrant city. You may choose to take a caleche (horsedrawn carriage) round the old city walls, visit one of the palaces or the Saadien tombs. Haggle for some last-minute bargains in the souks or chill at the tranquil Jardin Majorelle. Finally, no trip to Marrakech is complete without a nighttime visit to the main square, the Djema el Fna. CH (B) Day 15 End Marrakech Trip ends after breakfast. (B) payment. Please note the refuge can be rather crowded with other independent travellers. Morocco is opening up more and more to mainstream tourism due to increasing coverage from airlines. However, accommodation standards are more often comparable with those found in Sub- Saharan Africa rather than Europe and you should come prepared for this. In cities such as Marrakech there has been a large increase in tourist numbers but there are still only a limited number of 3-star hotels. All the hotels we use are of a similar standard, clean and functional although the rooms and facilities may be basic and limited and the breakfasts simple. Single Accommodation: You may request a single room on this trip subject to availability. The cost of a single supplement is 80 (or approx. US$130), which applies to hotel nights only. If you would also like a single tent throughout the tour, the extra charge of 70 (or approx. US$115) will apply (subject to availability). Extra Accommodation: If you would like Exodus to organise additional accommodation for you at the start and/or end of your trip, please contact the office at least 4 weeks prior to departure. KEY TO ACCOMMODATION: We indicate in the itinerary what type of accommodation is provided on each day. The descriptions are guidelines only and are used to give an idea of the accommodation offered, rather than an exact description. CH Comfortable Hotel, Lodge or Gite - twin rooms with en suite facilities, reliable electricity and water supply, good service and some added amenities. BH Basic Hotel, Lodge or Gite, Mountain Hut, Village House - can be communal, often consisting of just a bed and shared facilities. Bed linen not normally provided. Running water, toilets and electricity may be inconsistent or non-existent. Cleanliness is not always assured. FC Full-service Camping - two person tents sometimes in a private or public campsite that contains a communal ablutions block and other amenities and sometimes in a wild camp with toilet tents and mess tent or dining equipment provided. All camp chores are done for you from erecting / dismantling of your tent, to cooking & washing up. FOOD & TRANSPORT ACCOMMODATION Camping on this trip is always in wild camps, as official campsites simply do not exist in the areas we visit. Wild camping means there is no ablutions or toilet block; however, there is sometimes the possibility to find a private spot at a nearby river for a quick wash. Ground conditions and space permitting, a basic toilet tent is erected at each camp. All camp chores are done for you from erecting and dismantling your tent to all the cooking and washing up. A table and chairs are also provided for meal times. On days 4, 7 and 11 we spend the night at a simple gite with showers and toilets. On days 9 and 10, we stay at Toubkal Basecamp with toilets and warm showers available in the refuge building for a small Food Moroccan food is, generally speaking, excellent though not particularly varied. Breakfasts usually consist of bread and jam with coffee or tea. Meals eaten out are reasonably priced - kebab and bread cost only about 4 (approx. US$6.50). In main towns it is possible to find very good French and Moroccan restaurants where a meal and French wine will cost anything from 20 (approx. US$30) upwards. Generally dinner is likely to cost between 5-10 (approx. US$8-15) depending on what you drink. 15 (approx. US$25) a day for food should be sufficient. Local beers, wines and soft drinks are available at very reasonable prices, but you can pay UK prices or more for imported alcohol. Your leader can help recommend restaurants each evening. 3

4 Vegetarians can be catered for but there is a fairly limited choice of cous cous and tajine or omelettes. This is particularly the case during the more rural or trekking sections of the trip. Please note that if you have any special dietary requirements you should inform the Exodus Office prior to the trip. If you have a specific medical/dietary need (i.e. coeliac or vegan) you may find it helpful to bring some items of food with you from home. Since the EU banned the use of iodine tablets, we are no longer able to provide these on trek. The recommended alternative of Biox Aqua drops are not available in Morocco, therefore if you are travelling from UK we advise you buy your own purification tablets in the UK and take them with you. Bottled water can be purchased throughout the trip, yet please note recycling is not fully established in Morocco so plastic bottles are increasingly a waste problem. Transport For this trip we use a private bus, the size of which will depend on the group size, with a local driver. Roads in Morocco are reasonable and driving conditions in towns and on the plains are good. On mountain roads the pace will be slower. Although the buses normally have airconditioning and heating, this is not up to European standards. WEATHER AND SEASONALITY timings may change at a later date and cannot be confirmed until approximately two weeks before departure. UK Regional Flights The Flight Inclusive price is based on a London departure, but we are happy to tailor this to your local or regional airport. Please visit for a useful overview of the options available, and contact our sales team for expert advice. If booking regional flights other than with Exodus, you must allow a minimum connecting time (in addition to the international check in time) of 1 hour at Gatwick, and 1½ hours at Heathrow; this is longer than the official minimum, but baggage handling is known to be subject to delays. Free Transfers Exodus offers free airport arrival and departure transfers on any flight for this trip: please see the Free Transfers section below for more details. JOINING THE TRIP IN MARRAKECH 15 days, normally start Marrakech Sun, end Marrakech Sun Itinerary Start Your trip normally starts at our hotel in Marrakech in the of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are provided in the Final Joining Instructions - sent approximately two weeks before departure. Free Transfers Exodus offers FREE airport arrival and departure transfers on any flight for this trip, so no matter which flight you choose to arrive on you will be met and transferred to your hotel. All those taking advantage of the free airport transfers must provide full flight details for both arrival and departure in advance; unless specified otherwise, the transfer will be to the Exodus start (or pre-tour) hotel; transfers to other hotels in the same city may attract an extra charge; transfers may be shared with other Exodus customers on the same flight, or on a flight with similar arrival times. Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent. RESPONSIBLE TOURISM In the summer months, temperatures in Marrakech often exceed 35ºC and the nights are hot. In the mountains, the midday temperatures can be in the high 30's and we often have early starts and take long lunch breaks, walking in the cooler parts of the morning and afternoon. Even nights are warm to hot and it is only chilly at a couple of the higher camps. If you do not cope well with high temperatures, you should not travel to Morocco in July and August. June and September are cooler but with a slightly increased chance of rain in September. However the Atlas, like many mountain ranges can experience short sharp storms at any time, and this is not unusual. May and October can get cold at night and there is a slight chance of snow and ice at high altitude. It is not unknown for squally storms to blow through at this time of year and warmer clothes should be brought. The itinerary may be amended to take this into account. Please note this chart denotes the average temperatures in Marrakech and mountain regions will be cooler than this. JOINING THE TRIP IN THE UK 15 days, normally depart London Sun, return Sun Itinerary Start The group flight from London is a daytime flight departing on Day 1 of the itinerary. Flights from London We normally use the scheduled services of British Airways or Royal Air Maroc (depending on availability). As flight timings and schedules change regularly we recommend you call one of our specialist sales staff or your agent to confirm up-to-date timings. Please note Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing income, positive cultural exchanges and a financial incentive to protect their natural environment. Ours is a 'total approach' to responsible tourism, covering everything from the way we plan and operate our trips to the practices of Exodus as a company. For full details of our Responsible Tourism Policy please visit: With regular leader training, we can ensure our responsible tourism practices are passed onto local leaders. Our local muleteer teams have supported these tours for over 20 years who want to continue preserving their way of life in this area. We pass through very remote and poor rural communities that can really benefit from our tourism, as they can learn from our actions as responsible travellers. As recycling is not fully developed in Morocco, we recommend taking neutralising tablets to avoid using too many plastic water bottles and creating waste problems. We are working with various local villages to see how we can offer our support including how to reduce the amount of plastic waste in this area. Morocco Community project After funding a water tower for the remote village of Tijhza in 2000, we have been involved in a variety of schemes requested by the Berbers to improve their community life. With a new water pipeline system fitted in the village, every house can now enjoy running water and our funds have also stretched to paying for much-needed operations for some of the children. Our biggest achievement is the village hammam (Moroccan steam bath) that will help with important hygiene issues as well as creating a self-sustainable income. 4

5 Get involved by sending your leftover dirhams to Megan Devenish in the Exodus office; donate online via our website or join a volunteer departure (Trip code: AMO) led by project founder, Andy Mckee. PRACTICAL INFORMATION Passports and Visas All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid for 6 months beyond the intended length of stay. It is your responsibility to have the correct personal documents and to obtain your own visa, if one is necessary, in accordance with the regulations of the country you are to visit. The information below is primarily for UK passport holders, and other nationalities should check with their travel agent or the relevant embassies. We are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and customs officials, whether at points of entry or otherwise, and any subsequent effects. Local Time GMT Electricity 220 volts AC, 50 Hz. Not all accommodations have shaving points. Group, Staff and Support The group will generally be between 6 and 16 people. There will be a local leader and drivers and local guides where needed. There will be a local leader, driver and local muleteers/guides throughout. The minimum age of clients on this trip is 18 years. No visa required by British passport holders. Visa regulations can change without notice: please check the current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is required. Language Arabic is the official language of Morocco, and is spoken by virtually everyone in the plains and the larger cities. The business language is French, which is understood by almost all shopkeepers and many people in the mountains who have come into contact with foreigners. The Berbers have their own language which has several dialects and is used by almost all mountain people. English is understood by many of the shopkeepers in the main tourist towns, but seldom elsewhere. Vaccinations and Health Travel health can often be something people forget about before going away, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long way to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad. There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for this trip. Recommended vaccinations for this trip are: Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A. The above information can change at short notice; as we are not qualified to answer all your questions about travel health we strongly recommend you contact your Medical Professional or a Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for up-to-date information. Altitude Warning This trip goes to high altitudes where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. Our itineraries are designed to enable everyone to acclimatise to these altitudes, but you should be aware that it is still possible for you to be affected. Although rare, a number of medical conditions can also reduce your body's ability to acclimatise, and thus will affect your performance at altitude and make you more susceptible to AMS. If you are worried about any preexisting condition (e.g. heart problems), or unsure of your physical ability, we recommend that you seek medical advice prior to booking. Advice varies, but the consensus on how to combat altitude sickness seems to be to drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluid (at least 4 litres per day) and rest for the first few hours when you reach altitude. When hiking, do not hurry - take your time, enjoy the scenery and give your body a chance to catch up. If you are breathing hard, you are probably ascending too quickly. If you are not taking out Exodus Travel Insurance, make sure that your policy covers you up to the maximum altitude on this trip, and includes helicopter evacuation. Please take proof of this with you on the trip, as you will need to show it to the leader. Insurance - are you adequately covered? You must have adequate travel insurance, and if you are joining a trip which goes to high altitude, you must check that you are covered up to the maximum altitude of the trip. If you are resident in the UK we strongly recommend Exodus travel insurance, which is specifically designed to cover all activities on your trip. MONEY MATTERS Currency Information The national currency of Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD), with an exchange rate of 13.2 to the UK and 8.3 to the US$. Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication. We recommend you change your money at the airport into the local currency, as Morocco only allows 1000 dirhams to be imported or exported. There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you take provided it is declared on arrival. When changing your money, ensure that you keep hold of your exchange receipt as you may need to show it at the airport bank at the end of your holiday where it's normally possible to change any unspent Dirham notes back into Euros, Sterling or US Dollars. ATM availability/credit Card Acceptance/Travellers cheques It is easy to use Visa / MasterCard or Switch cards at the ATM machines in Marrakech by using your normal PIN number. Note that ATM machines are only available in larger towns and cities. Credit cards are normally accepted for more expensive souvenirs, such as carpets (but shops may charge a 5% supplement for this). Extra Expenses and Spending Money Entrance Fees to some historical & religious sites: allow up to 10 (around US$15). Drinks and snacks whilst in the hotels and refuge (please note there is only mineral water and chocolate at Neltner Refuge) - approximately 2-3 (approx. US$3-5) per day should be enough. Allow approximately 2-4 (approx. US$3-6.50) per day to cover small souvenirs or postcards etc. Some may be cheap, but carpets, for example, can cost a lot. Tipping (leader and local staff) Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with Exodus and tipping is entirely at your own discretion. However, as a guideline, we suggest you allow a few pounds for the guide, cook and for your team of muleteers who put up/take down the tents - about 40 (approx. US$ 65) per person would seem reasonable. If you are a UK citizen and travelling in Europe you should obtain the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from your Post Office. This gives free medical care in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. 5

6 WHAT TO TAKE Essential Equipment and Clothing 3 season sleeping bag Strong walking boots with good ankle support and tread Water bottle (2 litres) Waterproofs Daypack Fleece jacket Convertible walking trousers or shorts Plus sandals with good tread (for river crossings) Mattresses are provided so there is no need to bring a sleeping mat Sunhat, sun cream, sunglasses and bathing gear (for the brave) Headtorch is recommended (a flashlight can be used but better to have hands free for scrambling) Water is scarce and you will only have access to limited cold water for personal washing so you may wish to bring along a supply of wet wipes and water-free hand gel as well as biodegradable soap and a towel. As iodised water is not provided on trek you should bring your own purification tablets with you (Chlorine Dioxide) As Morocco is a strict Muslim country, we ask that men, women and children wear suitable clothing, i.e. over the knee skirts/shorts/ trousers and with shoulders covered. Additionally, women should avoid wearing close-fitting or revealing clothes. As advice about luggage allowances for both hand and hold luggage is subject to change, we suggest you check and/or the airline's website for the latest information prior to your departure. Reading List: Lonely Planet James Bainbridge (2011) Latest updated edition for Morocco Cadogan Guide to Morocco Rogerson (Cadogan 2004) A readable guide with excellent historical information Very readable history of modern Morocco Morocco N. Barbour (Thames & Hudson, 1965) Very interesting history and a good account of contemporary Morocco If you are interested in any of these books then you can order them from our own Exodus shop, 'Exodus Travel Essentials', JOIN THE EXODUS ONLINE COMMUNITY Don't forget to visit the Community area on our website. You can view the range of Exodus videos and podcasts, read trip write-ups which have featured in the national media and take advantage of some special deals on travel gear and equipment. In the Compass Café forum you'll find the Departure Lounge where you can discuss your trip with fellow travellers before you depart. When you get back from your holiday remember to upload your images to the relevant trip page on our website. This helps other people see what our holidays are really like and you'll be entered automatically into our monthly photo competition. To make full use of the Compass Café you'll need to join My Exodus. It's free, registration is simple and easy, so what are you waiting for? IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL CLIENTS Exodus operates a 24 hour duty office for emergencies, which can be contacted on 0044 (0) Every time that you travel abroad you should take the time to read the warnings in the essential information in the brochure or at www. exodus.co.uk/about-exodus/essential-information? Optional items: Trekking poles Spare batteries for cameras/head torches Earplugs if you have trouble sleeping Book or a Frisbee Some have commented that a small pillow may be useful Duvet jackets and sleeping bags are available for hire from Trek Hire UK ( ). Trek Hire UK can also provide a range of trekking essentials and accessories, from rucksacks to trekking poles. Please note that supplies are limited, and it is advisable to reserve any equipment as early as possible. For trips to Kilimanjaro, Nepal and Peru, certain items such as duvet jackets, sleeping bags and thick mattresses (mattresses not available in Nepal) can be hired through our local agents. These must be pre-booked through the Exodus office to ensure availability. Please call for details. Baggage and Baggage Allowance If you live in the UK or Ireland we provide an Exodus kitbag to pack your luggage in whilst on trek. Please note that if you book close to the departure date we cannot guarantee that your kitbag will arrive before your trip starts. If this is the case please use a suitable alternative. We regret it is not possible for us to supply kitbags for those who book from outside of the UK or Ireland. Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers, and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent. The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; in order to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, as stated in our brochure, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons - climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary. As fuel prices, airport taxes and exchange rates fluctuate, and airlines manage their rates to match demand, it is proving harder than ever to guarantee our Flight Inclusive prices. Although we endeavour to keep our website as accurate as possible, daily fluctuations mean that our Flight Inclusive price may be out of date. For accurate prices we recommend that you contact one of our Travel Experts, or your Travel Agent. Prices and exchange rates were correct at the time of publication. The most up-to-date prices can be found on the Exodus website. Exodus Travels Ltd. ATOL 2582/FTO At time of writing the standard weight limit for hold baggage on the recommended international carrier for this trip is 20kg. We recommend packing only one piece of checked baggage. 6

7 HOW TO BOOK YOUR TRIP 1. Check availability Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or Secure your place You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days. 3. Complete your booking and payment When you re ready to book, go to for online booking, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque. Book with confidence: Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582 issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA - The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all monies paid to us for your trip are fully protected. 7