Photography holiday

Morocco • Essaouira & Marrakech

Contrast in pace and light
From the relaxed gentility of Essaouira to the cauldron that is Marrakech, this two-centre holiday provides a wonderful introduction to Morocco.

Enchanting Essaouira

Arrival day

Leaving Marrakech we arrive in Essaouira in time for dinner.

Port pictures

Essaouira was founded on its port and it pulses with life today. This is a rich vein of subject matter including boatbuilding yards, men mending nets and lovely blue and white stalls selling fish (our lunch stop). Surrounding us are the ancient walls that restrain the sparkling Atlantic.

Atlantic impressions

This is a day to focus on the Atlantic. We'll try to capture the power of the waves, the sand dunes to the south and, with luck, the sunset.

Free day

A day to enjoy Essaouira in your own time and perhaps indulge in some bartering. There are many art galleries and hamams to enjoy and a camel trek is always possible.

The magic of the medina

With our guide, we will explore the visual richness of the medina. Stone arches, piles of fruit, pickled lemons, nuts and pyramids of spice are just some of the images. In the afternoon we explore the ancient Jewish quarter or Mellah before settling down for some people watching and candid portraiture around the cafés.

Magical Marrakech

Moving on to Marrakech

After breakfast we depart for Marrakech. After lunch we travel to the Bou Saf-Saf Garden, designed by the French artist, Louis Majorelle. Famed for its vivid cobalt blue buildings, it provides options for both great landscapes and close-ups.

Jma el Fna

We spend the morning exploring the labyrinth of the Medina with our guide.A feast of sights, smells and above all colour. Later we soak up the atmosphere in Marrakech's famous square – a foodlover's and entertainer’s paradise, it thrums to the sounds of music, animals, jugglers and snake charmers. You'll know you're in Africa.

Departure day

At the time of your choosing, a taxi will take you to your flight.