5 March 2027 - 7 days for £3,250 per person
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Discover a journey where Morocco’s most dramatic landscapes become your gateway to the universe. Timed around the new moon for optimal dark skies, this journey takes you from high-altitude observatories in the Atlas Mountains to remote desert camps far from light pollution. Each evening is dedicated to expert-led stargazing, using telescopes, guided sky interpretation and engaging talks to help you go beyond simply admiring the stars to truly understanding them.
Journey from the vibrant energy of Marrakech into the heights of the Atlas Mountains, across the stark beauty of the Agafay Desert, and onward through Morocco’s imperial and coastal cities including Rabat, Fes and Tangier. Morocco has long-standing links to astronomy, from its historic role in Islamic scholarship—where advances in mathematics and celestial navigation flourished—to its modern observatories that contribute to global research today. This journey connects that rich intellectual heritage with hands-on astronomical experiences in some of the clearest skies in the region.
Accompanying you throughout is renowned astronomy expert Colin Stuart, whose passion and clarity bring the universe to life. Through a series of evening lectures, informal discussions and real-time stargazing commentary, Colin transforms each observation session into a deeper learning experience. Whether explaining distant galaxies, decoding constellations or sharing the latest discoveries in space science, his presence elevates the tour into something far more immersive and intellectually rewarding.
This tour is ideal for curious travellers who want more than a traditional cultural holiday—those with a fascination for space, science and the night sky, as well as anyone seeking unique experiences in extraordinary settings. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomy enthusiast or simply captivated by the stars, this journey offers a rare opportunity to explore Morocco by day and the universe by night.
In partnership with Intrepid Travel.
Day 1: Arrival into Marrakech
Welcome to Marrakech. After transferring to and checking in to the Hotel 2Ciels Boutique, you will meet your accompanying astronomy expert Colin Stuart, who will welcome you to the tour. Throughout the tour, Colin will give evening lectures and commentary during site visits.
This evening, get together for a welcome dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, a great opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers while enjoying your first taste of traditional Moroccan cuisine in the vibrant atmosphere of the Red City.
Day 2: Explore Marrakech then journey into the Atlas Mountains for stargazing
After breakfast, you will set out on a guided cultural exploration of Marrakech, beginning in the historic medina and its vibrant network of souks. You'll wander through the iconic Djemaa el-Fna square, where storytellers, musicians and market traders animate one of the world’s great urban theatres. From here, you will pass the elegant Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech’s most recognisable landmark, before continuing to the exquisitely restored Ben Youssef Madrasa, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and a centrepiece of the city’s scholarly heritage.
In the afternoon, leave the bustle of the city behind as you drive toward the High Atlas Mountains and the alpine village of Oukaimden which should take around 2 hours. On arrival, your discovery session at the Oukaimden Observatory begins with a guided presentation introducing the history of the Oukaimden Observatory, its major research themes, ongoing scientific projects, and international collaborations. You will then rotate through different facilities and domes while a looped documentary plays in the main hall ith each rotation lasting 20 to 40 minutes.
Following the observatory tour, you will check into the stunning Kasbah Bab Ourika to unwind before dinner with 360 degree panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains.
Later, the highlight of the day awaits: an immersive astronomical observation session at the nearby ski station. Under expert guidance of Colin and local astronomers, you explore the night sky through telescopes and sky-interpretation activities. Set high in the Atlas Mountains, this experience offers a rare and unforgettable window into the cosmos.
Day 3: Gentle hiking in the Atlas Mountains then stargazing at a desert camp
This morning, you'll set out on a gentle hike around Oukaimden, breathing in the crisp mountain air and taking in sweeping views across the High Atlas range. After your walk, you'll begin the drive south, watching the rugged peaks gradually give way to the rocky, lunar-like plains of the Agafay desert, this should take around 2 and a half hours.
Upon arrival at the stunning Mia Agafay desert camp, you'll check-in and have time to unwind in this tranquil, wide‑open landscape. Later in the afternoon, you will head out on an optional camel ride across the Agafay terrain, perfectly timed for sunset. As the light softens and the desert shifts through bands of gold and rose, you experience the landscape at its most atmospheric.
After dinner, your exploration continues with a night of astronomy under the clear desert sky. Far from city lights, this remote environment offers outstanding conditions for stargazing. With expert guidance, you observe stars and constellations in remarkable clarity, gaining a deeper appreciation of the night sky in one of Morocco’s most peaceful settings.
Day 4: Historic Rabat and on to Fes
Today will involve a longer day of travel with around eight hours of driving in total as you depart the Agafay Desert to journey north towards Fes, with a cultural stop in Morocco’s capital, Rabat. On arrival in Rabat, enjoy light guided visits to some of the city’s key landmarks, starting with the Kasbah des Oudaias, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, followed by the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, an important site in Moroccan history. You’ll also pass by the Mausoleum of Hassan II, gaining further insight into the country’s royal heritage.
After the visit, continue the drive to Fes, arriving in the evening. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a free evening to rest after the long but rewarding day of travel.
Day 5: The cultural and artistic heritage of Fes
Your morning begins with a guided walk through the UNESCO‑listed Fes el‑Bali medina, navigating its labyrinth of narrow alleys, busy souks and centuries‑old workshops. Along the way, you visit key highlights including the exquisitely decorated Attarine Madrasa, celebrated for its intricate zellige tilework and carved cedarwood, and the historic Funduk Nejjarine, a beautifully restored caravanserai that offers insight into the city’s long trading history.
In the afternoon, you take part in a specialist‑led Islamic geometric art workshop, gaining a deeper understanding of the mathematical principles, symbolism and meticulous craftsmanship that define one of the most iconic and enduring forms of Islamic art.
Day 6: Travel north and explore Tangier
Travel north today from Meknes to the cosmopolitan port city of Tangier, a place long shaped by its unique position at the meeting point of Africa and Europe. On arrival, set out on a guided walk through the atmospheric Tangier medina, exploring its historic streets, lively markets and layered cultural influences.
Your visit continues at the Tangier Archaeology Museum, housed within the former Sultan’s Palace. Here, you’ll discover a rich collection of artefacts that trace the region’s ancient past – from Phoenician and Roman periods to early Islamic history – offering a deeper understanding of the civilisations that have shaped northern Morocco.
Late afternoon, you will check into your hotel.
In the evening enjoy a farewell dinner with the group.
Day 7: Depart Tangier
After breakfast, it is time to say farewell to Tangier and conclude the journey. Group transfers will be provided from the hotel to Tangier Airport.
