Profile photo for Saïd Bardam
5775 messages
active 29 mins ago

Saïd Bardam

I'm Said, proudly Moroccan and native from a Berber Valley called ''The Happy Valley'' in central High Atlas Mountains.

I have been working in the tourism industry since 2014 and I cannot imagine going back! I love sharing my knowledge with our guests and helping them create life-time memories through their vacations. It is extremely rewarding when a guest comes back to tell you that they had an amazing time and that you helped them make a dream comes true!

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"Imperial cities, Atlas Mountains, Sahara desert and Coastal regions.
Outdoor hiking, cultural tours, community projects, Outdoor adventures, Family Vacations, Local life, custom-made trips."

How did you get involved in travel?

"Being born and grown up in Morocco's ''Happy Valley'', which is known as a paradise for hikers, in the lap of great mountain ranges, allowed me to meet and guide lots of travelers visiting my home valley. This helped me to learn that the most direct way to communicate with people who visit Morocco, learn about their culture, and show them the happiness of my country. Giving the best to those who visit us is more than an experience – it is the desire to make them never want to leave again!"

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"In April 02nd, 2014, I took my fisrt inspection trip to visit some nice riads and hotels for our guests in the coastal town of Essaouira, nicknamed Mogador. I was totally fascinated by the charm of this city as it was the first time in my life I see a costal town and the big waves of the Atlantic Ocean. It's also during this inspection tip that I met the love of my life who will be become my lovely wife after two years, now mother of my little princess " DOUAE". My first travel to Mogador remains as a memorable and unique experience that I will never forget."

Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries

Favorite experiences

Spend the Day in a Moroccan Hammam

If you're craving a respite from the hustle and bustle of Medinas and souks, or if you want to rejuvenate your body and mind while partaking in a classic Moroccan ritual, spend a day in a local hammam (bathhouse). Although the Romans introduced the public bathhouse in antiquity, the Moroccans...

Agafay Desert Overnight Excursion

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, head to the desert for an unforgettable night under the stars. Your driver will pick you up directly from your accommodation in the city, or if you're staying at a riad in the old Medina, you'll meet at a set point. You'll then hit...

Seafood Lunch on the Wharf in Essaouira

If you are a seafood fan, there's no better place in Morocco to enjoy a fresh and locally caught lunch than Essaouira. The city's wharf is always buzzing with energy, from anglers returning from the sea, vendors selling their goods, people enjoying a meal, and seagulls trying to catch the...

Authentic Cooking Class in Marrakech

Discover the incredible and flavorful cuisine of Morocco with a cooking class in Marrakech. Together with a local chef and culinary expert, you'll prepare authentic dishes using traditional recipes beloved by Moroccans. This hands-on experience ends with a delicious lunch and conversation with...

Recent trip reviews for Saïd

This was the trip of a lifetime expertly organized
Morocco | Jun 14 - Jun 21, 2024

Laura
Laura C.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jun 28, 2024
This was the trip of a lifetime expertly organized by the Kim Kim team who contracted with locally the Original travels team. Said was responsive and listened well and expertly coordinated everything from the beginning. The trip included everything we wanted in the time frame desired and all the most affordable price for the luxury and service we received. We were picked up in a nice new vehicle and met our amazing guide and driver Karim- everything was coordinated seamlessly and it was... Read more

This was the trip of a lifetime expertly organized by the Kim Kim team who contracted with locally the Original travels team. Said was responsive and listened well and expertly coordinated everything from the beginning. The trip included everything we wanted in the time frame desired and all the most affordable price for the luxury and service we received. We were picked up in a nice new vehicle and met our amazing guide and driver Karim- everything was coordinated seamlessly and it was clear their knowledge, experience and care in how well this company and Karim took care of its guests. Incredible itinerary, fantastic luxury hotels, comfortable car and skilled driving and wonderful personable driving and guides for interesting customized and adventurous personalized itineraries with interesting food, things to see, activities and spectacular views and sights and people. We particularly liked the visits and meals at homes of the local people which is unique and it was so clear that this company and Karim went above and beyond to provide such memorable, luxurious yet affordable, fun, interesting, cultural and action filled and historic trip with great food, restaurants, hotels and activities. We loved the desert camp and the food tours and markets. It was really nice getting to know our driver Karim and he was so authentic and personable throughout our whole 8 day trip that it really made our trip a wonderful experience. If in Morocco and needing a driver or guide or tour - everybody should choose Kimkim for all and every future trip. I know I will in the future!

Local specialist: Saïd Bardam
Saïd
Saïd Bardam
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Jul 01, 2024

Dear Laura,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're gald to hear that you enjoyed your Moroccan experience with us. It's incredibly important to us that our valuable guests had a fantastic time in our beautiful kingdom.

We're happy that Karim's services, the hotels, and all aspects of your trip met your expectations. That means a lot to us.

We look forward to welcoming you back in the near future and providing you with the very best of what we offer.

Kind regards,
Said.

Morocco with KimKim.
Morocco | May 15 - May 27, 2024

Nancy
Nancy A.
Canada | Reviewed on Jun 03, 2024
We spent 13 days in Morocco. Working with Said to plan the trip was a pleasure. Said was always helpful and prompt in his responses to our communications. During the trip if adjustments/changes were requested, Said was great in making them happen. Faisal, our driver, was an amazing driver and shared lots of knowledge about Moroccan life and culture. He was always happy to answer our questions. He knows everyone which was certainly helpful in making things go smoothly. Favourite places…... Read more

We spent 13 days in Morocco. Working with Said to plan the trip was a pleasure. Said was always helpful and prompt in his responses to our communications. During the trip if adjustments/changes were requested, Said was great in making them happen. Faisal, our driver, was an amazing driver and shared lots of knowledge about Moroccan life and culture. He was always happy to answer our questions. He knows everyone which was certainly helpful in making things go smoothly. Favourite places… the tour of the Mosque and a walk on the beach in Casablanca, Chefchaouen (the blue city), Volubilis (UNESCO World Heritage site - amazing Roman Ruins), Fes (both the tour of the Medina and the scenic over look of the Medina), the magical Sahara, crazy and wonderful Marrakesh (both the cultural tour and the food tour (both with Hanan) were fabulous and of course Essaouira (be sure to buy fresh fish on the dock and have them barbecued on the pier (the one at the far end of the pier is the best)). We loved staying in Riads but be prepared for lots of stairs). There is a lot of driving involved (which they tell you about up front), but you need to be prepared for that. Faissal had stops planned but was also happy to stop if we needed additional breaks or for photo ops. Overall a memorable trip.

Hotel Reviews
Lina Ryad & Spa
Chefchaouen

Beautiful and well run. Great food. Wonderful people.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Located centrally.
Staff
Everyone was lovely and very helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Braya
Fes Medina

Beautiful Riad. Located on the outskirts of the Medina. We found the Medina in Fes intimidating without a guide (so easy to get lost). We ate at the nearby Riad Salam. While expensive by Moroccan standards, the Riad is spectacular, the food was great and the staff were all very welcoming.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tiziri Luxury Camp
Merzouga

Comfortable accomodation in a spectacular setting. Great staff and food. We chose to drive to the camp rather than ride camels (we have ridden camels before and given our age (mid 70s and 80) we decided to play it safe). The drive through the dunes was magical.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Palais Sebban
Marrakech

Spectacular Riad. Beautiful, comfortable, conveniently situated to the square, great food. Definitely 5 star in every sense.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Perle D'Eau
Essaouira

Great location and breakfasts. The rooftop is a great place to relax after a day of exploring. Friendly and helpful staff. Conveniently located within the Medina.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Saïd Bardam
Saïd
Saïd Bardam
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Jun 06, 2024

Hi Nancy,

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us. We're thrilled to hear that your 13-day journey through Morocco was a pleasure.

Thank you for highlighting the Riads' unique charm, albeit the stairs, and for mentioning the driving aspect of the journey. We strive to ensure our travelers are well-prepared for the adventure ahead, and we're glad to hear that Faisal's planned stops and flexibility enhanced your experience.

We appreciate your feedback and hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back to Morocco for another memorable journey.

Warm regards,
Said

Top Notch Experience!
Morocco | May 11 - May 18, 2024

C
Chandler B.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on May 28, 2024

All of our guides and experiences were top notch. We were clearly communicated with throughout the trip the entire team was helpful in making sure we had a great time. We will definitely be using Kimkim again next time we travel.

Local specialist: Saïd Bardam
Saïd
Saïd Bardam
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Jun 07, 2024

Hi Chandler,

Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you had a fantastic experience with our guides and team. Clear communication and ensuring our travelers have a memorable time are top priorities for us, so it's wonderful to know we succeeded. We can't wait to help you plan your next adventure with Kimkim!

Best Wishes,
Said

Morroco Dreams.....
Morocco | Apr 17 - Apr 23, 2024

Marty
Marty G.
San Antonio, TX | Reviewed on May 09, 2024
Said is a master communicator and answered many many questions I presented before the trip. Our guide Reda was an absolute professional with excellent attention to detail with our needs. Unfortunately I had a knee injury about a month before the trip. Reda went out of his way and by his own initiative to accommodate us including stopping to find me an ice bag. At our hotel stops he initiated getting us moved to a ground level room to help me avoid stairs. Aside from the incredible... Read more

Said is a master communicator and answered many many questions I presented before the trip. Our guide Reda was an absolute professional with excellent attention to detail with our needs. Unfortunately I had a knee injury about a month before the trip. Reda went out of his way and by his own initiative to accommodate us including stopping to find me an ice bag. At our hotel stops he initiated getting us moved to a ground level room to help me avoid stairs. Aside from the incredible communication and attention to detail. Our trip was a flawless plan with a flawless execution. I was able achieve a bucket list item of visiting the desert and riding a camel! Yep would recommend KimKim in a heartbeat and we are already planning our next adventure!

Local specialist: Saïd Bardam
Saïd
Saïd Bardam
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on May 14, 2024

Hi Marty,

I hope you made it back home safely!

I extend my sincere gratitude to you for sparing your valuable time to share your feedback with us; it is highly appreciated.

We're glad to hear that you had a delightful trip exploring the beauty of Morocco and that you found our communication and the services provided by our driver guide, Reda, to be commendable.

We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you back to Morocco in the near future, ensuring that your next visit is just as wonderful as the last.

Best regards,
Said.

Our driver, Samir, from Original Travels, was...
Morocco | Apr 21 - Apr 25, 2024

R
richard o.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Apr 28, 2024
Our driver, Samir, from Original Travels, was friendly, knowledgeable, and skillful. He made sure that we felt at home throughout our journey and made sure that we were safe, while also providing flexibility to meet our needs and wishes during our drive. Kimkim provided ex rllent and clear communication, while putting together an excellent tour for us of Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Meknes, Volubilis, and Chefchaouen. Read more

Our driver, Samir, from Original Travels, was friendly, knowledgeable, and skillful. He made sure that we felt at home throughout our journey and made sure that we were safe, while also providing flexibility to meet our needs and wishes during our drive.

Kimkim provided ex rllent and clear communication, while putting together an excellent tour for us of Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Meknes, Volubilis, and Chefchaouen.

Hotel Reviews
Riad Ghita
Fes

Wonderful, friendly service in a lovely riad with excellent food!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Dar Mounir
Chefchaouen

Cute hotel perfectly located in the old city near the main square. Staff was incredibly welcoming, friendly, and helpful!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Abdellatif Benaissa
Abdellatif
Abdellatif Benaissa
Local specialist in Marrakesh | Replied on May 05, 2024

Hi Richard,

We're thrilled to hear that your experience with our driver, Samir, exceeded your expectations! At Original Travels, ensuring your comfort, safety, and satisfaction is our top priority. It's fantastic to know that Samir's friendly demeanor, knowledge, and skillful driving helped make your journey feel like home.

Thank you for choosing Original Travels and Kimkim for your travels. We look forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable journeys in the future!

Best Wishes,
Abdel

Our trip to Morocco was fantastic. We had Lah...
Morocco | Apr 4 - Apr 18, 2024

Sarah
Sarah F.
Canada | Reviewed on Apr 25, 2024
Our trip to Morocco was fantastic. We had Lahcen as a driver, he was such a nice guy and made it easy for us to have an enjoyable experience. Travelling is a small group (we were a party of 4) gives you access to experiences you would never get on a big tour bus. For example: Upon arrival in Merzouga in late afternoon, our 4 camels were waiting for us and we were led across the dunes to see the sunset then continued into darkness (1.5 hr camel ride with a guide) to arrive at the Tiziri... Read more

Our trip to Morocco was fantastic. We had Lahcen as a driver, he was such a nice guy and made it easy for us to have an enjoyable experience. Travelling is a small group (we were a party of 4) gives you access to experiences you would never get on a big tour bus. For example: Upon arrival in Merzouga in late afternoon, our 4 camels were waiting for us and we were led across the dunes to see the sunset then continued into darkness (1.5 hr camel ride with a guide) to arrive at the Tiziri desert eco camp. The camp staff had our 2 luxury tents ready for us, provided a scrumptious dinner, then played traditional Berber music for us around a campfire under the Saharan moonlight. It was a magical experience that I never would have had without the expertise of Kimkim tour (Said in particular) setting it up for us. Many thanks.

Local specialist: Saïd Bardam
Saïd
Saïd Bardam
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on May 02, 2024

Hi Sarah,

Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience of your trip to Morocco! We're thrilled to hear that Lahcen's friendly demeanor added to the enjoyment of your journey.

The imagery of watching the sunset and then being serenaded by traditional Berber music under the Saharan moonlight paints a truly magical picture. We're delighted that our team could facilitate such an unforgettable adventure for you. Your kind words mean a lot to us. We look forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable experiences in the future!

Best Wishes,
Said

Stellar family trip of five (then seven)
Morocco | Mar 17 - Mar 30, 2024

E
Eri K.
Japan | Reviewed on Apr 09, 2024
Extremely well-organized trip for our family of five (which later became seven after our elderly parents joined us in the last third of the trip). KimKim (through Original Travels) organized a fabulous two week itinerary for us and arranged our transport and lodging. At several locations, KimKim also set up local English-speaking guides, most of whom were amazing and provided a chance to chat with locals. The family's highlight was visiting the desert. The kids loved sandboarding... Read more

Extremely well-organized trip for our family of five (which later became seven after our elderly parents joined us in the last third of the trip). KimKim (through Original Travels) organized a fabulous two week itinerary for us and arranged our transport and lodging. At several locations, KimKim also set up local English-speaking guides, most of whom were amazing and provided a chance to chat with locals.

The family's highlight was visiting the desert. The kids loved sandboarding and riding the camels. We on our own would never have been able to comfortably visit such a location with young children. This is where the expertise of a company like KimKim comes into play. We drove from Casablanca to the desert over the course of several days, stopping at Chefchaouen, Volubilis and Fez. Upon our arriving near the desert camp, KimKim arranged for a local guide to show us some of the communities that lived on the edge of the desert.

My personal favorite was our stay at a magnificent riad in Skoura, an oasis town on the south side of the Atlas mountains where we enjoyed the most memorable meal ever. I would have loved to have lingered in this town. So much to see and experience in this vast, beautiful country.

We spent a lot of our two weeks with Tarik our stellar English-speaking driver as we crisscrossed the country. He did a magnificent job transitioning our seven member group from place to place. He was also able to answer our many questions as well as set up dinners, one with music, adding depth to our experience. As an experienced tour driver, Tarik knew where to buy the best dates for example. He bought his own box and we our own and we couldn't agree more--the best dates! Tarik was friendly, flexible and able to adapt quickly to our group's varied needs.

Hotel Reviews
Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & Spa
Essaouira

We were originally supposed to stay at the Le Medina Essaouira Thalassa Sea and Spa near Essaouira's medina. It was on our itinerary but for some reason, maybe error, we were in fact, booked at the sister Sofitel hotel, the Mogador Golf& Spa located ten minutes away. Maybe when our party grew from five to seven at Marrakesh, we no longer all fit at the original lodging and a new reservation was created but this change had not been communicated to me or to Tarik our driver. We drove up to the Thalassa Sea and Spa only to find we had no reservation there. So, we drove to the Sofitel Mogador Golf & Spa. For families who love golf this may be a good place but the Mogador Golf & Spa itself is in need of serious repairs, both structural and general maintenance, and is in need of more staffing. Presumably, the current price is lower to reflect these issues but the resort missed the mark on some basics. When the hotel opened in 2015, I suspect it was truly beautiful. The lobby and grounds have been kept up meticulously, but the water damage in the upper floor where we stayed is frankly, quite bad. The walls and ceilings of our hallway showed extensive cracking and peeling; in fact, there was even water leaking into a bucket outside our room! Stranger still, one of the doors that led to an outdoor bridge which connects two guest wings did not close properly and the door to the opposite side was missing entirely. Our kids were housed in this separate, second wing. Without immediate remediation, the building will suffer from mold and possibly major structural issues. The hotel room itself was nicely designed but also in need of basic maintenance. The multiple sliding doors in our room did not slide smoothly. One sliding door which was intended to act as a privacy screen to the shower area, did not, in fact, move. Upon inspection, it had come off its rails. The hair dryer in our room was broken and the bath tub in our parents' room did not function--though a call to the repair man fixed the issue. The beds were on the hand, super clean. These minor 'glitches' alone were not a problem, but in the aggregate, add up to a not-so-stellar impression. The spa being closed was also an issue, especially for our parents who were looking forward to soaking in a tub. So, in the end, we opened up a bottle of wine and sat on the veranda and enjoyed a beautiful sunset. The Mogador Golf & Spa is located in a somewhat desolate area, away from the medina about a ten minute car ride. If we enjoyed golf, or the temperature were warm enough to use the multiple pools, or the spa were open, it is conceivable that a guest would not feel the need to leave. However, with the spa being closed and it not being quite warm enough for us to swim, we would have much preferred to be near the medina. The Mogador Golf & Spa does operate a shuttle bus to the medina, but the last run to the medina ended at 5pm (perhaps because of Ramadan.) The resort's immediate surrounding area does not have restaurants, so guests are stuck eating at the hotel, which sadly did not have the best food. Luckily for us, we had Tarik who graciously drove our group to the medina for dinner and back. To put some of the things into perspective, we stayed during a transition time before peak tourist season. It seemed to me however, that the resort had not adjusted its staffing fast enough to accommodate an increasing flow of guests. The breakfast area for example was disorganized as there were not enough people to set up and clear tables. Compounding the issue were things like non-functioning juice dispensers. Because the juice dispenser would clog, a staff person would need to stand nearby and manually pour out juices to the guests, taking him away from clearing tables and setting up tableware. I suspect this pattern applied to other instances in the hotel's operations. Is any of this the end of the world? Of course not, but I don't recommend putting guests here unless its warm enough to use the outdoor pool or at least to make sure that the spa is working. The resort's far distance from the medina, is simply not worth the other things the hotel presently, can offer.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
La Maison Arabe Hotel
Marrakech

I loved this hotel, a very close second after my favorte Ksar El Kabbaba Kaspa & Spa. La Maison Arabe has beautifully appointed rooms and good food and music. Wonderful ambiance. Not our best meals in Morroco but very, very good. The heated pool was a super plus for our children. The stairs were a bit hard for our elderly parents but the staff were lovely and helpful with bags etc. We did not take advantage of the sister country club but in warmer weather, it may be a very enticing benefit. I would come back in a heartbeat.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Karawan Riad
Fès

Beautiful riad and great location. The kids' room was spacious and clean. They appreciate the English books in their room and we found a photo documentary book which was especially good. Our room was appointed in a West-African style. The hotel generally has a quirky design vibe rather than classic "Morrocan" decor. The breakfast was great and dinner was solid. The dining space is intimate and cozy. Felt very much taken care of and at home.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Our room was on the top floor and had a lot of privacy which was nice. It space felt carved out or repurposed into a guest room which was fun for us but it had a lot of steps which would not be appropriate for older guests or young children.
Ksar El Kabbaba
Skoura

We enjoyed the best meals in our entire trip here. The dinner was amazing as was the breakfast. Everything from the pigeon? (chicken) to the yogurt in the breakfast. The dining room was very elegantly appointed with a stately feel with high backed chairs. Staffing was extremely attentive. I would have loved to have had more time to stay here and explore Skoura. The pool is not heated so at end of March, it was a touch too chilly for kids to enjoy though they tried.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dar Jasmine
Chefchaouen

Terrific views and the food was very elegantly prepared and tasty. One of our favorite meals, coming in second after our meal at Ksar Kabbaba Kasba in Skoura. This place had the best service striking the balance between being attentive but not hovering. The rooms each has a theme. We were in the Monaco room and the kids in the Istanbul room. Hotel is short fifteen minute walk away from the medina. The hotel is located on a steep slope so there are a lot of stairs before reaching its entrance but there are porters to help.

Authenticity & Character
Welcome tea in garden was quite nice. Our rooms each had a balcony to enjoy the morning and sunset views.
Location
Beautiful views of the village and surrounding mountains but the hotel itself is perched on a steep hill so there are many, many stairs before one even reaches the hotel. The porters carry the bags for you but for older people, the climb would be too hard. Luckily, our parents had not yet joined our trip.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Abdellatif Benaissa
Abdellatif
Abdellatif Benaissa
Local specialist in Marrakesh | Replied on Apr 12, 2024
Hi Eri, Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear that your family had such a wonderful time exploring Morocco with us through Original Travels. It's heartwarming to know that we could facilitate such cherished memories for your family, especially with the addition of your elderly parents later on in the trip. We're delighted that the desert experience, complete with sandboarding and camel rides, was a highlight for your children. Providing opportunities for... Read more

Hi Eri,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear that your family had such a wonderful time exploring Morocco with us through Original Travels. It's heartwarming to know that we could facilitate such cherished memories for your family, especially with the addition of your elderly parents later on in the trip.

We're delighted that the desert experience, complete with sandboarding and camel rides, was a highlight for your children. Providing opportunities for families to comfortably immerse themselves in such unique experiences is exactly what we strive for.

We're especially grateful for your kind words about Tarik, our dedicated driver. It's wonderful to hear that he not only ensured smooth transitions between destinations but also enhanced your journey with his local insights and ability to cater to your group's needs. We'll be sure to pass on your compliments to him.

Thank you once again for entrusting us with your travel arrangements. We look forward to welcoming you and your family back for more unforgettable adventures in the future!

Best Wishes,
Abdel

Morocco Sojourn
Morocco | Feb 25 - Mar 5, 2024

Saul
Saul K.
Italy | Reviewed on Mar 12, 2024
Abdellatif was very responsive in adjusting the trip to our requests. Read more

Abdellatif was very responsive in adjusting the trip to our requests.

Hotel Reviews
Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche
Casablanca

Very comfortable modern hotel. Convenient location.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
La Maison Arabe Hotel
Marrakech
Authenticity & Character
Location
Walking distance to the souk.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ksar El Kabbaba
Skoura

Very elegant and comfortable. Be aware that this hotel does not accept credit cards.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Desert Luxury Camp Erg Chebbi
Merzouga

Luxurious camp, better than many 4 and 5 star hotels.

Authenticity & Character
Berber nomads did not have anything close to this level of comfort.
Location
Spectacular at sunrise.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Braya
Fes Medina

Room was very spacious, but there are a lot of stairs to climb and my wife fell on a wet floor. Also, be aware that if you wish to eat dinner in the hotel your menu choices must be reserved one day in advance.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Difficult to get to.
Staff
Staffing was inadequate the first night. One man, who was trying very hard and was accommodating, but needed help.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lina Ryad & Spa
Chefchaouen
Authenticity & Character
Location
Great view of the blue city, but a lot of climbing to get to the hotel.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hilton Tanger City Center Hotel and Residences
Tangier
Authenticity & Character
Modern hotel, not in the Moroccan style.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Explore the Grandeur of Hassan II Mosque
Explore the Grandeur of Hassan II Mosque
Morocco

Beautiful modern mosque. Joined a large group tour which was informative.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Enchanting Marrakech: Uncover the Magic on a Guided Exploration
Enchanting Marrakech: Uncover the Magic on a Guided Exploration
Marrakesh

A must with a private guide. Hanan was clearly very knowledgeable and experienced in guiding us through the souk.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tasting Marrakesh: A Private Gastronomic Adventure
Tasting Marrakesh: A Private Gastronomic Adventure
Marrakesh

Hanan led us through the souk with expertise and calm. We got to sample many delicious foods. Try to save room as we were so full that we had to decline yoghurt at the end of the tour.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
A Journey Through Time: To Skoura Oasis via Ait Benhaddou & Ouarzazate
A Journey Through Time: To Skoura Oasis via Ait Benhaddou & Ouarzazate
Morocco

Faissel, our driver, was a superb guide throughout this trip but gave us many interesting bits of information on this leg of the journey, especially.

Food
Elegant dinner at the Ksar El-Kabbaba in Skoura.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Journey of Elegance: A Scenic Drive from Skoura to Merzouga
Journey of Elegance: A Scenic Drive from Skoura to Merzouga
Morocco

Long drive from Skoura, but well worth it for the desert camp experience.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Faissel was professional and friendly throughout.
From Merzouga to Fes: An Imperial City Awaits
From Merzouga to Fes: An Imperial City Awaits
Morocco

Once again, a long drive but Faissel did his best to keep it interesting.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Enchanting Fez: Unveiling the Cultural Splendors
Enchanting Fez: Unveiling the Cultural Splendors
Fes

Sharif, our guide to the Souk and all of Fes was excellent and made the experience entertaining and informative. It is a lot of walking, but worthwhile.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Sharif was excellent, as noted above.
Transport
 Vibrant Hues and Historic Treasures: A Journey of Colors from Fes to Chefchaouen
Vibrant Hues and Historic Treasures: A Journey of Colors from Fes to Chefchaouen
Morocco

Visit to the Roman ruins Volubilis is a must on the way to Chefchaouen.

Quality of Experience
Roman ruins of Volubilis
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Abdellatif Benaissa
Abdellatif
Abdellatif Benaissa
Local specialist in Marrakesh | Replied on Mar 13, 2024

Hi Saul,

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience! We're thrilled to hear that I was able to tailor the trip to your specific requests promptly. Ensuring our guests' satisfaction is our top priority, and we're delighted that we could meet your expectations. If you have any further feedback or requests, please don't hesitate to reach out. We look forward to welcoming you on another memorable journey in the future!

Best Wishes,
Abdel

Fantastic Trip through Morocco with Karim
Morocco | Feb 11 - Feb 19, 2024

Clemens
Clemens S.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Feb 22, 2024
Our Moroccan journey was an unforgettable experience, thanks in no small part to our exceptional local driver, Karim. Traveling with my wife, Kamilla, we found in Karim not just a driver but a true gem who went above and beyond to accommodate our every need. Whether it was adapting our itinerary on the fly, navigating the complexities of acquiring wine in Morocco, securing a SIM card, or his current endeavor to find a rare part for my Toyota bus, Karim's punctuality, responsiveness, and... Read more

Our Moroccan journey was an unforgettable experience, thanks in no small part to our exceptional local driver, Karim. Traveling with my wife, Kamilla, we found in Karim not just a driver but a true gem who went above and beyond to accommodate our every need. Whether it was adapting our itinerary on the fly, navigating the complexities of acquiring wine in Morocco, securing a SIM card, or his current endeavor to find a rare part for my Toyota bus, Karim's punctuality, responsiveness, and meticulous care for the car made our travels seamless and comfortable.

The trip itself was an immersive plunge into the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Morocco, though admittedly, it was a bit more packed than our usual travel pace. Over the course of nine days, we felt we bit off more than we could comfortably explore, spending considerable time on the road and visiting an array of destinations.

In hindsight, there are places we would recommend skipping to future travelers, such as Casablanca and Chefchaouen. Despite Chefchaouen's photogenic allure, we found that its beauty alone didn't justify the visit. Instead, allocating more time to the desert and Marrakech would have been preferable, offering deeper immersion into the essence of Morocco.

Our guided tours varied in quality; the guide in Fes was outstanding, engaging us with the city's rich history and culture, whereas the guide in Marrakech left something to be desired in terms of engagement. Opting for some spontaneity, we canceled planned activities towards the end of our trip to enjoy some leisure time.

The hamam experiences also stood in stark contrast; the one in Fes fell short of our expectations due to its thin walls and a less than vigorous massage, unlike the superior experience in Marrakech.

Dining was another area where we took the reins, choosing to explore beyond the tourist-targeted restaurant recommendations. Our adventurous spirit paid off, as we discovered the authentic delights of street food in the medinas and markets, without any adverse effects, despite Karim's understandable concerns.

The camel ride, though longer than anticipated, led us to a fantastic camp and a memorable Berber night. In retrospect, an additional night there would have been cherished.

Accommodations throughout were generally good, with friendly staff. However, our initial room in the Marrakech hotel was surprisingly small for a 5-star establishment. After discussing this with the reception, we were graciously upgraded to a significantly larger room at no extra cost, aligning more closely with Western standards of luxury. This experience underscores the importance of requesting superior rooms or suites when booking.

The organization of the trip was impeccable, allowing us to enjoy a worry-free experience. We wholeheartedly recommend this journey for those looking to dive into the heart of Morocco, with the caveat of pacing the itinerary to allow deeper exploration of its most enchanting sites.

Karim's role in our adventure cannot be overstated; his professionalism, kindness, and dedication greatly enhanced our Moroccan experience, making it a truly worry-free and deeply enriching journey. For anyone considering a trip to Morocco, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable adventure, Karim and the team come highly recommended.

Local specialist: Abdellatif Benaissa
Abdellatif
Abdellatif Benaissa
Local specialist in Marrakesh | Replied on Feb 22, 2024
Dear Clemens, Thank you immensely for sharing your detailed review of your Moroccan journey, and I'm thrilled to hear that it was such an unforgettable experience for you and Kamilla. It sounds like you both had a remarkable adventure, enriched by the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Morocco, and I'm honored to have been a part of it. Karim truly sounds like an exceptional guide and driver, going above and beyond to ensure your comfort and satisfaction throughout the journey. His... Read more

Dear Clemens,

Thank you immensely for sharing your detailed review of your Moroccan journey, and I'm thrilled to hear that it was such an unforgettable experience for you and Kamilla. It sounds like you both had a remarkable adventure, enriched by the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Morocco, and I'm honored to have been a part of it.

Karim truly sounds like an exceptional guide and driver, going above and beyond to ensure your comfort and satisfaction throughout the journey. His punctuality, responsiveness, and meticulous care for your needs undoubtedly contributed to the seamless nature of your travels, allowing you to focus on soaking in the beauty of Morocco.

Once again, I'm deeply grateful for your kind words and thoughtful feedback. It was truly a pleasure to have played a part in your Moroccan journey, and I hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back for further exploration in the future.

Warm regards,
Abdel

Trip of a lifetime
Morocco | Nov 4 - Nov 14, 2023

M
M M.
Canada | Reviewed on Jan 22, 2024
I had the best experience, and in fact, this was possibly the best trip I’ve ever had, even as an experienced traveller. From the initial planning stages, to the airport drop off at the end, everything was perfectly and seamlessly handled. Where things didn’t go as planned (things outside of anyone’s control such as a sand storm on the day of my camel sunset ride) they more than made up for it by upgrading my hotel at the next stop. But the best part of it all was my experienced personal... Read more

I had the best experience, and in fact, this was possibly the best trip I’ve ever had, even as an experienced traveller. From the initial planning stages, to the airport drop off at the end, everything was perfectly and seamlessly handled. Where things didn’t go as planned (things outside of anyone’s control such as a sand storm on the day of my camel sunset ride) they more than made up for it by upgrading my hotel at the next stop. But the best part of it all was my experienced personal driver, Soufain, without whom this trip would not have been the same. Not only did he “protect” me (as a single female travelling on her own) from aggressive vendors and scammers, but he made sure that my every need was taken care of. Thank you, Soufian! Hope to see you again when I bring my family 😃

Hotel Reviews
Auberge Chez Pierre
Boumalne Dades

This place is fabulous. Good restaurant, pool is fantastic, even though it was too cold to go into when I was there (not heated, cold in November). The room was comfortable, cozy, and delightful

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Braya
Fes Medina

Luxurious accommodation in the middle of a bustling medicine. Lots of stairs, so not for those with mobility issues. I felt bad for the serving staff who served me breakfast on the rooftop patio, five flights up! The room was fantastic. Luxurious and comfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Right I. The Medina, but means hauling your luggage quite a ways, them up multiple floors!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lina Ryad & Spa
Chefchaouen

This was possibly my favourite spot to rest on my Morocco trip. Right in the heart of the Medina (which also meant someone had to haul my luggage. Long ways from the drop off to the hotel!), with. Great breakfast that was included. I chose to get a hammam and massage there for 1100 DM and both were good, although next time, I might choose a hammam where the locals get it because of the mark up for tourists. Overall, a great experience. The room had a lot of character and was very comfortable. Best thing is that it’s conveniently in the heart of the Medina

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Mokhtar Tanger
Tangier

Great location, good breakfast, very comfortable rooms. Minimal staff, but very accommodating. Overall, I would definitely choose this Riad again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mövenpick Hotel Casablanca
Casablanca

What can I say. It’s a hotel in a large city. Hardly fancy. After staying in the riads the rest of the trip, this was a disappointment, not because there was much wrong, but I prefer the riads hands down. This hotel room is about the same level as a holiday inn in North America. Nothing fancy. Small. No frills.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Saïd Bardam
Abdellatif
Abdellatif Benaissa
Local specialist in Marrakesh | Replied on Jan 22, 2024
Hi M, Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback with us! We are absolutely thrilled to hear that your recent trip with us was the best you've ever had, especially coming from such an experienced traveler like yourself. It's heartening to know that from the initial planning stages to the airport drop-off, everything was seamlessly handled. We understand that unforeseen events like the sandstorm during your camel sunset ride can be disappointing, but we're delighted that our team... Read more

Hi M,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback with us! We are absolutely thrilled to hear that your recent trip with us was the best you've ever had, especially coming from such an experienced traveler like yourself.

It's heartening to know that from the initial planning stages to the airport drop-off, everything was seamlessly handled. We understand that unforeseen events like the sandstorm during your camel sunset ride can be disappointing, but we're delighted that our team could make up for it by upgrading your hotel at the next stop. We believe that turning challenges into opportunities is what makes a trip truly memorable.

We're especially glad to hear about your positive experience with Soufian, your experienced personal driver. It's fantastic that he went above and beyond to ensure your safety, comfort, and overall enjoyment throughout the journey. We take pride in having dedicated and attentive team members like Soufian who make a significant difference in our travelers' experiences.

Your kind words motivate us to continue providing exceptional service, and we'll be sure to pass on your appreciation to Soufian. We look forward to the possibility of welcoming you and your family in the future. It would be our pleasure to make your next trip as special and memorable as the one you've just had.

Best regards,
Abdel