Hey, I’m Abdel, born and raised in a small Berber village under the Atlas Mountains. Growing up surrounded by Morocco’s rich traditions, I always knew I wanted to share my homeland with others — but in a way that goes beyond the usual tourist spots.
Starting out as a tour guide, I realized my dream could be bigger. That’s how Original Travels came to life. For me, it’s not just about showing Morocco’s beauty. It’s about helping you experience it the way we do — connecting with local communities, honoring our traditions, and preserving the incredible culture we have here.
At Original Travels, we focus on meaningful, sustainable journeys that respect both the land and the people. We’re all about creating experiences that go beyond the surface and invite you to truly discover Morocco’s soul.
This is my story, and my invitation to you. Let’s explore Morocco together, in a way that stays with you long after the journey ends.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"At Original Travels, we focus on showcasing Morocco's rich landscapes and cultures through tailored experiences in:
Cities: Exploring the vibrant streets of Marrakech, the serene blue alleys of Chefchaouen, and the coastal charm of Essaouira.
Mountains: Trekking in the Atlas Mountains, visiting traditional Berber villages, and enjoying the natural beauty of Morocco’s highlands.
Deserts: Venturing into the Sahara for camel treks, luxury desert camps, and unforgettable star-gazing sessions under the clear, vast sky.
Activities include:
Cultural Immersion: Family meals, traditional ceremonies, and artisan visits.
Luxury Travels: Top Notch stays, private Trips, honeymoons
Culinary Tours: Cooking classes and market tours.
Historical Explorations: Guided visits to ancient sites and landmarks.
Wellness: Yoga retreats and traditional hammam experiences."
How did you get involved in travel?
"I was drawn into travel by my Berber heritage and the natural beauty of my hometown in the Atlas Mountains. Wanting to share Morocco's rich culture and landscapes with others, I started as a tour guide. This passion led me to establish Original Travels, where I could offer more authentic and meaningful experiences to travelers, deeply rooted in local traditions and sustainability. My journey into travel is a reflection of my love for my homeland and its stories."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"A night spent in the Sahara Desert remains an unforgettable travel experience for me. Riding camels at sunset, we ventured deep into the dunes, where the vast silence and the blanket of stars overhead offered a profound sense of solitude and connection to the universe. Away from the campfire, under the dense, starlit sky, I felt an overwhelming sense of awe and humility. This moment, stark and beautiful, underscored the transformative power of travel, revealing the earth’s magnificent scale and mystery in an instant. It’s a vivid reminder of the world's wonders, forever etched in my memory."
Abdellah's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
Luxury itineraries
Honeymoon itineraries
Recent trip reviews for Abdellah
A fantastic trip
Morocco
|
Nov 21 - Nov 30, 2025
Trevor D.
Seattle, WA
| Reviewed on Dec 05, 2025
Abdellah and his on-the-ground team, Said and Abbesamad were outstanding. They took great care of us and we couldn't have had a better trip.
Local specialist: Abdellah El Asely
Abdellah El Asely
Local specialist in Marrakech
| Replied on Dec 05, 2025
Hi Trevor,
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re really happy to hear that you had a great trip and that our team took good care of you. Our team strives to make every moment smooth and enjoyable, so your feedback is greatly appreciated.
We truly appreciate you choosing to travel with us and hope to welcome you back to Morocco again in the future!
Warm regards,
Abdel
KimKim Custom Tour Exceeds Expectations
Morocco
|
Nov 19 - Nov 28, 2025
Leslie S.
Chicago, IL
| Reviewed on Dec 03, 2025
Our family of four used KimKim/Original Travels to create a 9-day custom tour of Morocco that exceeded our expectations. Communication with Abdellah and Said at Original Travels was outstanding from beginning to end, the selected local guides were all excellent, and adjustments to our itinerary were made seamlessly when requested.
Our enjoyment of the trip was influenced by Karim, our exceptional driver/guide, who truly made our experience in Morocco unforgettable. He was always...
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Our family of four used KimKim/Original Travels to create a 9-day custom tour of Morocco that exceeded our expectations. Communication with Abdellah and Said at Original Travels was outstanding from beginning to end, the selected local guides were all excellent, and adjustments to our itinerary were made seamlessly when requested.
Our enjoyment of the trip was influenced by Karim, our exceptional driver/guide, who truly made our experience in Morocco unforgettable. He was always punctual, incredibly flexible with our schedule, and consistently went above and beyond to make sure our needs were met, including a side quest to find a specific piece of pottery.
What truly sets Karim apart is his cheerful personality and genuine willingness to share personal stories and deep cultural insights. His stories brought Morocco to life in a way no guidebook ever could, and we always felt enriched by everything he shared.
The vehicle was always clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, making even long drives relaxing. Most importantly, we always felt completely safe and in excellent hands with Karim behind the wheel.
If you are looking for a reliable, knowledgeable, warm, and professional driver/guide in Morocco, we cannot recommend Karim highly enough. KimKim, Original Travels, and Karim, truly made our journey special.
Hotel Reviews
Inara Desert Camp
Marrakech
Fabulous food and wonderful vibes. Glamping at its best.
Hôtel La Tour Hassan Palace
Rabat
Beautiful hotel, excellent staff, lovely breakfast.
Lina Ryad & Spa
Chefchaouen
Great location, fabulous room with a private terrace, lovely pool, delicious dining options. Spa options were great.
Beautiful hotel with great views. Three restaurant options - all good. Breakfast buffet excellent. Outdoor patio spaces were fabulous.
Hôtel & Ryads Barrière Le Naoura
Marrakech
Luxury accommodations. Beautiful pool. Great restaurants and bars with nightly musical entertainment.
Local specialist: Abdellah El Asely
Abdellah El Asely
Local specialist in Marrakech
| Replied on Dec 04, 2025
Hi Leslie,
Thank you so much for your kind words! We are so happy to hear that your 9-day trip in Morocco was even better than you expected.
We’re glad we could make your journey smooth and memorable. Karim will be happy to hear your praise, he loves sharing stories about Morocco and making sure every guest feels comfortable and happy.
It means a lot to us that you felt safe, well taken care of, and enjoyed the trip so much. Thank you for trusting KimKim and Original Travels. We hope to welcome you back to Morocco someday!
Warm Wishes,
Abdel
10/10 Trip and Service
Morocco
|
Nov 1 - Nov 7, 2025
Grace S.
Atlanta, GA
| Reviewed on Nov 17, 2025
I had an amazing expirnce using KimKim to book my trip! As a first time user I was a bit sceptical but the entire team was so professtional, responsive, and helpful throughout our entire trip. We had a great time seeing all aspects of the country from the city to the country-side to the desert and never felt uneasy about our guide or expirences. The hotels KimKim team booked were exquisit and a highlight of our stay. I would highly reccoemnd to anyone looking to visit a place that may seem...
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I had an amazing expirnce using KimKim to book my trip! As a first time user I was a bit sceptical but the entire team was so professtional, responsive, and helpful throughout our entire trip. We had a great time seeing all aspects of the country from the city to the country-side to the desert and never felt uneasy about our guide or expirences. The hotels KimKim team booked were exquisit and a highlight of our stay. I would highly reccoemnd to anyone looking to visit a place that may seem like a strech to book/explore on their own! Kimkim exceeded all my expectations and stayed within my budget!
Hotel Reviews
Riad Diamond of Marrakech
Marrakech
SO beautiful inside the photos do not even do it justice! The staff were so unbelievably kind and welcoming!
Authenticity & Character
stunning architecture
Location
insane location right in the heart of marrakesh incredible for walking/exploring
so so beautiful the sunset was so lovely from our rooftop deck
pool was lovely!
Authenticity & Character
felt like i was in a palace
Location
best hotel in the area by far
Cleanliness & Comfort
huuge bathroom!
Orient Desert Camp
Merzouga
we had a lovely personal and peaceful stay for the evening with music and great food!
Location
so many camps in the area but this felt very personal - family operated and underrated
Dar Rihana Dades
Douar Aït Ouffi
i dont think we actually ended up staying at the specific hotel but a newer one ichou which was my fav evening of the entire trip! an amazing hamman and massage and lovely quaint dinner that was exceptional!
Location
super nice new hotel - not very accessible if you have trouble climbing stairs
Staff
again staff was so lovely made it feel like we were all friends
Activity Reviews
Half-Day Guided Tour of Marrakech
Marrakesh
it was great to have a guide take us through marrakech! redwan was a great host, informative but gave us our space to explore
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Marrakech Evening Food Tour
Marrakesh
a great way to see the market and night and taste local places you'd never know about otherwise!!
come hungry lol
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
we could walk from out hotel 3 min!
Ouarzazate to Merzouga via Todra Gorge, Erfoud & Rissani
Morocco
long drive but many amazing stops along the way
Guides, Drivers and Staff
reda was the sweest local guide
Transfer to Dades Valley via Todra Gorges
Morocco
beautiful to see up close!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transfer to Marrakech via Roses Valley, Ouarzazate, Aït Benhaddou & Atlas Mountains.
Morocco
beautiful scenic route back to the city
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Abdellah El Asely
Abdellah El Asely
Local specialist in Marrakech
| Replied on Nov 20, 2025
Hi Grace,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re truly happy to hear that your first experience with Kimkim was such a positive one.
It means a lot to our whole team to know that you felt supported, comfortable, and well taken care of throughout your journey. We’re glad you enjoyed discovering the cities, countryside, and the desert, and that the hotels were a highlight of your stay.
Your recommendation and kind words really motivate us. We’re glad we could exceed your...
Read more
Hi Grace,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re truly happy to hear that your first experience with Kimkim was such a positive one.
It means a lot to our whole team to know that you felt supported, comfortable, and well taken care of throughout your journey. We’re glad you enjoyed discovering the cities, countryside, and the desert, and that the hotels were a highlight of your stay.
Your recommendation and kind words really motivate us. We’re glad we could exceed your expectations while staying within your budget.
We hope to welcome you back again for another adventure soon!
Warm regards,
Abdel
Unforgettable Morocco
Morocco
|
Nov 1 - Nov 7, 2025
anindita G.
Chicago, IL
| Reviewed on Nov 17, 2025
We visited Morocco in October 2025 and had an amazing experience from Marrakech to Casablanca. Our car was clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned, and our driver Mostapha was fantastic. We had excellent local guides at every stop and stayed in beautiful Riads in Marrakech, Dades Valley, Fez and Chefchaouen, plus an unforgettable night in a desert camp in Merzouga–Erg Chebbi. Our local contact was Said from Original travels and he was very responsive. He offered us upgrades and other benefits...
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We visited Morocco in October 2025 and had an amazing experience from Marrakech to Casablanca. Our car was clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned, and our driver Mostapha was fantastic. We had excellent local guides at every stop and stayed in beautiful Riads in Marrakech, Dades Valley, Fez and Chefchaouen, plus an unforgettable night in a desert camp in Merzouga–Erg Chebbi. Our local contact was Said from Original travels and he was very responsive. He offered us upgrades and other benefits throughout the trip. Great service, reasonable prices, and truly a 5-star experience. Highly recommend!
Hotel Reviews
Riad Diamond of Marrakech
Marrakech
Central location at the heart of the Medina. Newly renovated. Great service. Great food options nearby
Dar Rihana Dades
Douar Aït Ouffi
Family run hotel at Dades valley, attentive service. On the bank of a river but not much of a view.
Tiziri Luxury Camp
Merzouga
We didn’t get to stay here but was send to another camp, which was disappointing.
Authenticity & Character
We didn’t stay here, so don’t know
Location
We didn’t stay here, so don’t know
Staff
We didn’t stay here, so don’t know
Cleanliness & Comfort
We didn’t stay here, so don’t know
Riad Fes Maya Suite & Spa
Fès
An old palace converters into a riad. Has old world charm but very dimly lit, sheets have musty smell and very noisy. We also didn’t have good experience with the dining staff
Location
Very noisy, far from center of Medina
Activity Reviews
Half-Day Guided Tour of Marrakech
Marrakesh
Knowledgeable local guide, took us to all local spots, gave us time to explore. Also good conversation.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Visit Majorelle Gardens
Morocco
We went here next morning. Was not too busy. We didn’t find much to see. Having a guide would be great.
Marrakech Evening Food Tour
Marrakesh
Fun way to explore local food
Quality of Experience
All good except little late for the lamb place, they almost ran out
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Drive from Boumalne Dades to Merzouga via Tinghir & Rissani, Sunset Camel Ride
Morocco
Definitely highlight of the tour, camel ride to the camp and stopping on the way to watch spectacular sunset
Guides, Drivers and Staff
ATV Ride in the Dunes of Merzouga
Merzouga
Very fun, our first time on the ATV and throughly enjoyed, even did tight turns along the way. Exhilarating to climb a duns, race down and repeat.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Merzouga to Fes via Rissani, Midelt, & the Atlas Mountains
Morocco
Very comfortable car, great drive Mustapha made all the difference in these long trips
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guided Tour of Fez Medina
Fes
Must do tour of Fez, Fez Medina is much more authentic. Best chance to look at local handicrafts up close
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guided Exploration of the "Blue City" Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen
Blue city in the mountains views are spectacular from the top. Fun to walk in the alleyways.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Abdellah El Asely
Abdellah El Asely
Local specialist in Marrakech
| Replied on Nov 17, 2025
Hi Anindita,
Thank you so much for your kind review! We are very happy to hear that you had a great trip from Marrakech to Casablanca.
It’s wonderful that you enjoyed the clean and comfortable car, and that Mostapha took good care of you. We’re also glad you liked the local guides, the beautiful Riads, and your night in the desert camp in Merzouga.
About the Tiziri Luxury Camp, we are sorry you were not able to stay there. As Said explained, there was a special event and a birthday party...
Read more
Hi Anindita,
Thank you so much for your kind review! We are very happy to hear that you had a great trip from Marrakech to Casablanca.
It’s wonderful that you enjoyed the clean and comfortable car, and that Mostapha took good care of you. We’re also glad you liked the local guides, the beautiful Riads, and your night in the desert camp in Merzouga.
About the Tiziri Luxury Camp, we are sorry you were not able to stay there. As Said explained, there was a special event and a birthday party that night, and the owner told us there would be a lot of noise. For your comfort, we decided to move you to another camp so you could enjoy a quiet and relaxing night.
Said will be very happy to hear your nice words. He always tries his best to help and make the trip smooth for everyone.
Thank you again for choosing Original Travels. We truly appreciate your recommendation and would love to welcome you back to Morocco anytime!
Best Wishes,
Abdel
Magical Morocco
Morocco
|
Oct 26 - Nov 2, 2025
Deb H.
Ashburn, VA
| Reviewed on Nov 10, 2025
We had an absolutely amazing experience in Morocco, thanks to Kimkim! It was such a relief to have someone help us curate the trip of our dreams. Every detail was thoughtfully planned, allowing us to sit back, relax, and truly get to know the country through local tour guides who brought a wonderful sense of authenticity to our journey.
Said was fantastic—always quick to respond and attentive to our needs throughout the trip. Our private driver, Tayebb, made our travels even more...
Read more
We had an absolutely amazing experience in Morocco, thanks to Kimkim! It was such a relief to have someone help us curate the trip of our dreams. Every detail was thoughtfully planned, allowing us to sit back, relax, and truly get to know the country through local tour guides who brought a wonderful sense of authenticity to our journey.
Said was fantastic—always quick to respond and attentive to our needs throughout the trip. Our private driver, Tayebb, made our travels even more enjoyable. He was personable, courteous, and an absolute pleasure to spend time with. We could not have asked for a better driver.
Redouane was a fabulous guide through the markets of Marrakech, filling our ears with history and great stories. He was the ultimate professional and made the experience come alive. In Fes, Shariff did an amazing job helping us navigate the city’s intricate streets and hidden gems—his knowledge and enthusiasm made our visit truly special.
I look forward to utilizing Kimkim’s services for future travels. They are honest, responsive, and kind—everything you could hope for in a travel consulting agency. Thank you for helping us create such unforgettable memories!
Local specialist: Abdellah El Asely
Abdellah El Asely
Local specialist in Marrakech
| Replied on Nov 12, 2025
Hi Deb,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re glad to hear that your journey through Morocco was everything you hoped for and more. It’s always our goal to create a seamless and authentic experience.
We’ll be sure to share your kind words with Said, Tayebb, Redouane, and Shariff, they’ll be delighted to know they helped make your travels so special.
It was an absolute pleasure to be part of your Moroccan adventure, and we look forward to welcoming you again for your next trip with Kimkim.
Warm regards,
Abdel
Overall we had a wonderful trip. There were s...
Morocco
|
Oct 26 - Nov 2, 2025
Elizabeth C.
Newark, NJ
| Reviewed on Nov 06, 2025
Overall we had a wonderful trip. There were several miscues regarding accommodations and one attraction but Said addressed them quickly. Our driver, Tayeb, was wonderful. Could not have asked for anyone to be more attentive to our needs. Offered terrific restaurant suggestions and was very knowledgeable about various attractions. Enjoyed all of our tour guides -Mohammed and Sharif and another person in Marrakech. My only complaint was that Mohammed decided we would rather end the tour than...
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Overall we had a wonderful trip. There were several miscues regarding accommodations and one attraction but Said addressed them quickly. Our driver, Tayeb, was wonderful. Could not have asked for anyone to be more attentive to our needs. Offered terrific restaurant suggestions and was very knowledgeable about various attractions. Enjoyed all of our tour guides -Mohammed and Sharif and another person in Marrakech. My only complaint was that Mohammed decided we would rather end the tour than try the last two places. I would have appreciated being asked. Special shout out to Sharif for helping me avoid being overcharged for an item.
Hotel Reviews
Loved everything about this hotel from its location, to its well stocked bathroom and delicious breakfast.
Authenticity & Character
Very clean and modern
Location
Right on the water
Staff
Aside from our server in the upstairs bar, people were attentive and friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bed
Lovely view and surroundings; delicious meals. Only downside was the small rooms especially the bathroom.
Authenticity & Character
Design
Location
View and landscaping were amazing
Staff
Attentive and engaging
Activity Reviews
Marrakech Evening Food Tour
Marrakesh
Very knowledgeable guide
Good sampling of things to eat and see
Wish we were given the option to continue or end. Mentioned we were full so the tour ended. Also not sure why a pharmacy was included on the tour except for shopping.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tayeb was amazing
Half-Day Guided Tour of Marrakech
Marrakesh
Overall, great survey of the city.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transfer from Marrakech to Boumalne Dades: Through Atlas Mountains, Aït Benhaddou & Rose Valley
Morocco
Wonderful to see the different topographies and learn about the Berber’s and life outside of the bigger cities.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Visit Majorelle Gardens
Morocco
It was on our itinerary but we didn’t get tickets. That was very disappointing since we confirmed our trip months in advance.
A Relaxing Hammam Experience: The Art of Moroccan Wellness
Morocco
Great experience. Staff was terrific.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Abdellah El Asely
Abdellah El Asely
Local specialist in Marrakech
| Replied on Nov 06, 2025
Hi Elizabeth,
Thank you very much for sharing your thoughtful feedback.
We’re truly happy to hear that you had a wonderful trip overall and that Tayeb took such great care of you throughout your journey. He’s an exceptional driver, and we’ll be sure to share your kind words with him and our team.
We also appreciate your comments regarding the accommodation details and the missed attraction. While we’re glad Said was able to resolve things quickly, we sincerely apologize for any...
Read more
Hi Elizabeth,
Thank you very much for sharing your thoughtful feedback.
We’re truly happy to hear that you had a wonderful trip overall and that Tayeb took such great care of you throughout your journey. He’s an exceptional driver, and we’ll be sure to share your kind words with him and our team.
We also appreciate your comments regarding the accommodation details and the missed attraction. While we’re glad Said was able to resolve things quickly, we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused. Your note about the tour and ticket issue is very helpful, and we’ll make sure to reinforce clearer communication with our guides to ensure every guest’s preferences are always taken into account.
We’re also delighted to know that you enjoyed your experiences with our local guides, Mohammed, Sharif, and the team. Thank you again for traveling with us and for taking the time to share your experience. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back to Morocco in the future for an even smoother and more memorable trip.
Best Wishes,
Abdel
A great way to experience the variety of Morocco with ease
Morocco
|
Oct 11 - Oct 19, 2025
Amy B.
Newark, NJ
| Reviewed on Oct 26, 2025
We had a fantastic week driving all over Morocco and I think what impressed us the most was just how much variety there is! Kimkim did a great job taking care of all the details for us and making it easy & seamless to do so many different things. All of our hotels were great, but the room in Essaouira (Riad Mimouna) was particularly stunning and memorable! We really enjoyed Essaouira and appreciated it being an unstructured day where we could explore on our own. I also want to shout out our...
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We had a fantastic week driving all over Morocco and I think what impressed us the most was just how much variety there is! Kimkim did a great job taking care of all the details for us and making it easy & seamless to do so many different things. All of our hotels were great, but the room in Essaouira (Riad Mimouna) was particularly stunning and memorable! We really enjoyed Essaouira and appreciated it being an unstructured day where we could explore on our own. I also want to shout out our Marrakech local guide, Abdella-- he pointed out details we would have never noticed and enriched the walking tour with cultural and historical significance. Moreover, he customized it to our specific interests, taking us to a spices shop at our request with no hesitation. And of course, our night in the Sahara Desert with the camel ride, campsite, sunset & sunrise were just magical.
In retrospect, there were a few excursions that didn't quite meet expectations and/or weren't totally tailored to our interests. It felt like they kept pushing us to buy from local merchants (leather, carpets, silk, oils, etc.), but we were more interested in history than in shopping. We also had much better experiences finding food on our own than in the places they set up for us, which were generally more expensive and had less variety.
All that said, the best part of our experience with kimkim might very well be our driver, Tayeb. He was always punctual, friendly, and professional throughout the trip. I can't imagine trying to navigate through Morocco on our own, through crazy traffic & long drives, and it was so worth it to have someone else manage it for us. But more than that, Tayeb added a lot of unexpected fun and interesting stops along the way! Arguably all of our best meals were on the road at restaurants he picked that we would have never found on our own. They were delicious and very well priced! There were so many hidden gems and experiences he opened up, breaking up the driving time with conversation and humor. He showed us the epitome of Moroccan hospitality and it really felt like we left with a new friend.
Hotel Reviews
Beautiful hotel, with a quiet & spacious room. The staff were extremely friendly and welcoming, and the breakfast every morning was great. Moreover, the location was totally ideal. We were close enough to be able to walk into the medina on our own, but also on the outside of it where we could easily meet up with our driver and not be disturbed by noise. Perfect spot for a couple of days in Fes.
Authenticity & Character
Gorgeous building with mosaic tiles and a large interior courtyard
Location
Moreover, the location was totally ideal. We were close enough to be able to walk into the medina on our own, but also on the outside of it where we could easily meet up with our driver and not be disturbed by noise. Perfect spot for a couple of days in Fes.
Staff
The staff were extremely friendly and welcoming, greeting us with mint tea.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The room was spacious and long, with high ceilings and the A/C was really nice
Orient Desert Camp
Merzouga
Exceeded expectations! What a beautiful oasis for a night in the desert!
Location
So cool to be surrounded by desert
Staff
The staff were all very nice, welcoming us with tea and snacks and then playing music around the campfire at night. They were great!
Cleanliness & Comfort
I cannot believe how luxurious the tent was! It came with a king size bed, full bathroom, sink and shower. Truly a beautiful "glamping" experience.
kasbah ait benmoro
Skoura
This was such an unexpected and cool experience! It felt like going back in time, living in the walls of a wealthy Berber family. We really found it fascinating
Authenticity & Character
This one felt SO authentic. A cultural and historic experience
Location
Convenient stop on our drive from Merzouga to Marrakech
Cleanliness & Comfort
The tradeoff with the authentic experience is that it lacked some of the modern amenities like A/C. But it was worth it!
Riad Terra Bahia
Marrakech
Good location and satisfactory stay
Authenticity & Character
Lovely Riad with rooftop terrace
Location
Great location in Marrakech right by that open square so we could easily meet our driver and get into the medina on our own. But also far enough away that it wasn't noisy!
Staff
The staff was nice, but the communication wasn't perfect. They moved our room without telling us on the second night, and they weren't super clear with check in & check out instructions.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The room felt a bit exposed to everyone else and hard to block out the light
Arguably the best hotel room of our lives!!! We had an amazing corner room right on the water! The open windows created the most beautiful background sounds of softly crashing waves. The water views were absolutely stunning! I will dream about this room for a very long time- only wish we could have stayed longer!
Authenticity & Character
Literally on the edge of the city walls, it was incredible
Location
Unbelievable location, right on the water
Staff
So incredibly nice, funny, warm and helpful!
Cleanliness & Comfort
The best sleep! It was just incredible
Barceló Casablanca
Casablanca
Perfectly fine for the situation
Authenticity & Character
Just a modern hotel; nothing special but nothing wrong with it
Location
I don't know Casablanca well enough, but there were at least a couple restaurants we could walk to
Staff
Again, just fine but nothing over the top
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and comfortable
Activity Reviews
Private Transfer from Skoura to Marrakech: Crossing the High Atlas
Morocco
There were so many more interesting stops along this route than we knew! We really enjoyed the Atlas Studios, Aït Benhaddou, and then Tayeb took us to an AMAZING barbecue restaurant in the mountains.
Guided Tour of Fez Medina
Fes
In reality, this felt like more like a guided tour of where to shop than of the history of Fez. We really weren't interested in buying things and thus felt awkward as we were continuously dropped off at another merchant (leather, silk, pottery, carpets, etc). And when he took us to a historic site, he just dropped us off to check out on our own rather than talking us through it.
Half-Day Guided Tour of Marrakech
Marrakesh
Abdella did such a fantastic job! This is exactly what we were looking for. He explained the art in such detail, helping us understand the "what" and "why" behind the beautiful mosaic tiles we'd been seeing all week. We learned so much in such a short time with him. And then when we said we were specifically interested in going to a spice stand, he didn't hesitate but took us to exactly what we we had in mind. He catered the experience to us and shared so much interesting information along the way. It was great!
Marrakech to Essaouira
Morocco
Nice, brief drive. We LOVED Essaouira and wanted to maximize our time there
Essaouira to Casablanca via Eljadida & Safi Coastal Route
Morocco
Long drive, nothing memorable.
Dine with a Local Family
Morocco
This really did not live up to how it was advertised. The family was VERY sweet, and I appreciate them feeding us. But here's how it was described:
"When you arrive, they welcome you with smiles and offer mint tea and dates. The father may work in the medina or at a school, and he will proudly talk about Fes. The mother makes sure you feel comfortable. The children may be shy at first, but soon they will come to greet you. Before dinner, you may help a little in the kitchen. The mother can show you how to mix a salad or arrange bread. While cooking, the family asks about your trip, your home, and what you think of Morocco. They tell stories about daily life and their city. Dinner is served at a low table. Everyone sits on cushions."
In reality, we sat alone in a silent room while one teenager watched us eat. The mother and father did not speak English at all and thus were unable to converse with us. No one ate with us, the teenager just watched us eat. We paid 650 dirham for chicken tagine, while was paid 120 dirham for the exact same meal at a restaurant. They did not teach us how to cook, we did not sit on cushions, and it was disappointing. But that's not a knock on the family themselves- they were very sweet people!
Transfer from Fes to Merzouga via Erfoud & Camel Ride
Morocco
Absolutely loved our camel ride and Sahara experience! We will remember that night for the rest of our lives. The campsite was amazing and the setting was magical.
Sand-Boarding in Erg Chebbi
Merzouga
This was a total flop. The sandboard didn't move one inch down the sand hill. They didn't take us out to a dune high enough, just handed us an old board to let us walk a few feet within the camp. Even Michael as an experienced snowboarder couldn't get it to move at all. This didn't work at all and was disappointing.
Visit Majorelle Gardens
Marrakesh
Didn't need this experience. It felt like an overcrowded tourist destination. Even though we had a scheduled ticket entrance time, we still had to wait 30 minutes in line to enter. Then it seemed like the purpose was just to take photos for social media. Not our kind of spot.
Quick Tour of Casablanca with your Driver-Guide
Morocco
He just dropped us off at the mosque. I wouldn't call that a tour of Casablanca. And since the entry fee wasn't included, we decided to just walk along the water on our own instead.
Local specialist: Abdellah El Asely
Abdellah El Asely
Local specialist in Marrakech
| Replied on Oct 27, 2025
Hi Amy,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a detailed review of your Morocco trip. We’re truly delighted to hear that you had a fantastic week exploring the country and that you enjoyed the variety Morocco has to offer, from your stay at Riad Mimouna in Essaouira to the magical night in the Sahara Desert. It’s also wonderful to know that your Marrakech guide, Abdella, and especially your driver, Tayeb, made such a positive impact on your experience. We’ll be sure to share...
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Hi Amy,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a detailed review of your Morocco trip. We’re truly delighted to hear that you had a fantastic week exploring the country and that you enjoyed the variety Morocco has to offer, from your stay at Riad Mimouna in Essaouira to the magical night in the Sahara Desert. It’s also wonderful to know that your Marrakech guide, Abdella, and especially your driver, Tayeb, made such a positive impact on your experience. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with both of them.
We also sincerely appreciate your honest feedback regarding some of the excursions in Fez and other activities that didn’t quite meet your expectations. We’re very sorry that certain visits felt overly commercial or didn’t align with your interests in history and culture. Your comments are extremely valuable, and we’ll review these experiences closely with our local partners to ensure they become more authentic, interactive, and better tailored to travelers’ preferences.
Regarding the family dinner and sandboarding, we regret that these moments fell short of what was described. We’re already taking steps to improve the communication and quality of these experiences to make sure future guests receive the genuine and engaging interactions we strive for.
Thank you again for your balanced feedback and for trusting us with your journey through Morocco. We’re happy that the overall experience, especially your connection with Tayeb, left you with such great memories. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back in the future to explore even more of Morocco, with a fully personalized touch.
Warm regards,
Abdel
Enjoy the history, the people’s and the cultures of Morocco.
Morocco
|
Oct 7 - Oct 16, 2025
Ken Y.
San Francisco, CA
| Reviewed on Oct 17, 2025
We highly enjoyed a 10 day driving tour of Morocco with stops in Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fes, Merzouga, Skoura and Marrakech. Our driver, Ayoub, was with us throughout the trip and, besides excellent driving skills, was knowledgeable, patient, thoughtful, helpful, and full of good humor. Our City guides in Fes (Shariff) and Skoura (Badr) were excellent. We had a rewarding lunch visit with a family in Skoura. We would highly recommend this trip for anyone interested in learning...
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We highly enjoyed a 10 day driving tour of Morocco with stops in Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fes, Merzouga, Skoura and Marrakech. Our driver, Ayoub, was with us throughout the trip and, besides excellent driving skills, was knowledgeable, patient, thoughtful, helpful, and full of good humor. Our City guides in Fes (Shariff) and Skoura (Badr) were excellent. We had a rewarding lunch visit with a family in Skoura. We would highly recommend this trip for anyone interested in learning about the history, the people and the cultures of Morocco.
Hotel Reviews
La Maison Arabe Hotel
Marrakech
Location
Near the Medina.
Exquisite setting, excellent staff and service. Being there is like being welcomed family members. The food there was remarkably good. Wonderful place to stay for two nights (not just one night) to enjoy the spa, meals, and beautifully landscaped grounds. And definitely arrange a family visit for lunch. One of the best experiences of the trip.
Staff
Superb and friendly service.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beautiful room.
Hôtel La Tour Hassan Palace
Rabat
Lina Ryad & Spa
Chefchaouen
Tiziri Luxury Camp
Merzouga
Riad Fès - Relais & Châteaux
Fès
Beautiful hotel, but they cancelled our appointment one hour before our arrival due to flooding issues they were having. It required several days to resolve the refund issues with the hotel, though none of this was the fault of Original Travels, who worked with us diligently to reach a fair resolution. Thank you Original and Said.
RIAD VILLA AMOOD
Merzouga
Excellent room and wonderful staff.
Authenticity & Character
Historic, traditional feel.
Location
Beautiful hotel and grounds.
Staff
Uniformly exceptional.
Activity Reviews
Skoura to Marrakech via Ouarzazate & Aït Benhaddou
Morocco
Explore the Heart of Skoura: Pottery, Palm Groves & Local Life
Skoura
Visit with a local family for lunch was a highlight of the trip. Learned so much, and enjoyed meeting the family.
Food
The lunch prepared by the family was wonderful.?!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Thank you, Badr, for arranging the family visit.
Morocco Last Nomads Experience: Tea, Tales & Desert Adventures
Merzouga
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transfer from Fes to Merzouga via Erfoud & Camel Ride
Morocco
Food
Staff at the camp were terrific.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Fez: Exploring the Ancient Medina and Jewish Mellah
Fes
Excellent guide, Shariff. Informative and friendly.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Chefchaoeun to Fez via Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes
Morocco
Loved Volubilis. Must see.
Arrival in Casablanca & Transfer to Rabat via the Coast
Morocco
Quite efficient and courteous.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
We were met by our driver, Ayoub, right at the terminal exit.
Local specialist: Abdellah El Asely
Abdellah El Asely
Local specialist in Marrakech
| Replied on Oct 30, 2025
Hi Ken,
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We are delighted to hear that your journey through Morocco was enjoyable and memorable. It's wonderful to know that Ayoub, Shariff, and Badr made your experience special with their professionalism and local expertise, and that the family lunch in Skoura was a highlight of your trip.
We also appreciate your patience with the Riad Fès situation, and we're glad we could help resolve it quickly. We're pleased that the cultural...
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Hi Ken,
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We are delighted to hear that your journey through Morocco was enjoyable and memorable. It's wonderful to know that Ayoub, Shariff, and Badr made your experience special with their professionalism and local expertise, and that the family lunch in Skoura was a highlight of your trip.
We also appreciate your patience with the Riad Fès situation, and we're glad we could help resolve it quickly. We're pleased that the cultural sites, authentic experiences, and accommodations all came together to create a trip you'll remember.
Your kind recommendation means a lot to us, and we would love to welcome you back to discover even more of Morocco's beauty.
Warm regards,
Abdel
Samad was a great driver who made the trip mo...
Morocco
|
Oct 2 - Oct 16, 2025
David C.
Los Angeles, CA
| Reviewed on Oct 17, 2025
Samad was a great driver who made the trip most enjoyable. Siad was there to make alterations to the itinerary when we asked. Overall, a stellar job!
Local specialist: Abdellah El Asely
Abdellah El Asely
Local specialist in Marrakech
| Replied on Oct 17, 2025
Hi David,
Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're so glad to hear that Abdesamad made your trip enjoyable and that Said was able to help with your itinerary changes. Your kind words mean a lot to our entire team.
It was our pleasure to have you explore Morocco with us. We hope to welcome you back again for another amazing experience!
Best regards,
Abdel
Our trip to Morocco organized by Kimkim was terrific!
Morocco
|
Oct 1 - Oct 13, 2025
Ceci S.
Minneapolis, MN
| Reviewed on Oct 16, 2025
Our trip to Morocco organized by Kimkim was the one of the best trips we ever did. The planning with Abdellah was seamless. He helped us decide on various activities and places and made good suggestions.
Everyone who helped us on our trip was professional, knowledgeable and warm and friendly. Our driver Mustapha was excellent. He was a very safe driver, knowledgeable about locations and shared a lot of knowledge about the country and environment. He always had fresh bottles of water...
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Our trip to Morocco organized by Kimkim was the one of the best trips we ever did. The planning with Abdellah was seamless. He helped us decide on various activities and places and made good suggestions.
Everyone who helped us on our trip was professional, knowledgeable and warm and friendly. Our driver Mustapha was excellent. He was a very safe driver, knowledgeable about locations and shared a lot of knowledge about the country and environment. He always had fresh bottles of water each day and offered several convenient stops throughout the day. Our guides in Fes and Marrakech were helpful in the market and knowledgeable about the sights. Our guides for the hikes at Akchour and Imlil Valley were knowledgeable and shared great information about the area and the Berber people. Our time at the camp in the desert was very memorable. The staff at the Tiziri Camp were wonderfully warm and friendly and took time to share more about their culture which we loved. The music at night was especially wonderful. Our time in Marrakech was a favorite. People were very friendly and helpful. We enjoyed walking around and also did a cooking class at La Maison Arabe. It was excellent and we are excited to practice at home. The staff at La Maison Arabe was outstanding. The last day we went to lunch at the Selman Hotel and saw the stables of Arabian horses. It was a very special experience. All our hotels throughout the trip were excellent and chosen by Original Travels.
The person we worked with once the trip was planned, Said, at Original Travels was wonderful. He communicated with us well and was quick to respond to any request we had especially for the last day.
We highly recommend Kimkim for travel and Original Travels and Said as the person to work with during the trip. We highly recommend Kimkim and Original Travels.
Hotel Reviews
Tiziri Luxury Camp
Merzouga
Authenticity & Character
Very comfortable. Enjoyed talking to staff about the culture. Loved the music at night.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The tent is extremely comfortable and meals delicious. Staff was very gracious and friendly. The atmosphere was beautiful and very special.
La Maison Arabe Hotel
Marrakech
This was our favorite in a two week trip around Morocco. Stayed four nights. Staff was outstanding. Always ready to help. Good was great. Room and bed super comfortable. Really loved the piano bar.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Super comfortable bed and great shower. Had suite, do plenty of room. In room coffee and tea. Nice patio with room.
Le Casablanca Hotel
Casablanca
Loved this hotel. Very comfortable after a long trip. Staff warm and friendly.
Staff
Very helpful, warm and friendly.
Activity Reviews
Day Trip to Imlil Valley: High Atlas Mountains Adventure & Lunch with a Berber Family
Marrakesh
This was a favorite for us. Loved hiking through villages and paths that the people have used forever. Guide was great had a wonderful sense of humor and shared a lot of Berber culture.
Quality of Experience
The guide was great and fun, being so close to the way of life of the Berber people.
Food
Loved the good, especially the ravines and fresh fruit and vegetables.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Always timely. Very accommodating. Drivers were Mustapha fir 10 days and Yassnine for two days.
Quick Tour of Casablanca with your Driver-Guide
Morocco
Very interesting. Loved seeing the city and learning more about it.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Knowledgeable driver showed various sides of Casablanca which was interesting.
Guided Tour of Hassan II Mosque
Morocco
Nice to visit inside. Unique opportunity.
Guided Exploration of the "Blue City" Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen
Fun to walk this city with a guide. Then we went out later ourselves and we were able to feel comfortable walking around.
Casablanca to Chefchaouen via Rabat
Morocco
Rabat is an impressive city. Sits on a large river near the ocean. Visited Chellah, interesting Roman and Arab ruins as well as a garden. Walked by mandolin of former king. Very large and impressive. Soldiers guarding on beautiful horses at doors.
Day Trip to God's Bridge in Akchour - Natural Rock Formation Hike
Chefchaouen
Enjoyed the hike. It is a unique experience walking up this river valley . Enjoyed a lunch midway and it was the best good so far!
Chefchaoeun to Fez via Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes
Morocco
Wonderful opportunity to see the Roman part of Morocco. Good signage. We did not have a guide. Several tile mosaics in good condition.
Local specialist: Abdellah El Asely
Abdellah El Asely
Local specialist in Marrakech
| Replied on Oct 16, 2025
Dear Ceci,
Thank you so much for your wonderful and detailed review! We’re truly delighted to hear that your trip to Morocco was one of the best you’ve ever taken. It’s great to know that we made the planning process smooth and that Said ensured everything ran seamlessly during your travels.
Your appreciation means a lot to our entire team at Original Travels and to our partners at Kimkim. We’re honored to have been part of your Moroccan adventure and hope to welcome you back one day to explore more of our beautiful country!
Warm regards,
Abdel