Africa Active outdoor Trips

Loved the whole experience although it was a challenge to me. Was v grateful for the patience of the 2nd guide with me, the slow one always last. Impressed by the standard of meals in spite of v basic facilities. Also impressed that the flimsy looking tents at base camp actually kept us warm and withstood a significant storm. They were v good. I would have liked an even slower pace to allow time not just to recover breath, but to appreciate the views and take photos more frequently. I was sorry for the others’ disappointment that the summit could not be attempted due to dangerous wind conditions, but I was satisfied to have made it to base camp. We were grateful to Explore for flexibility that was required to accommodate us in Aremnd due to a necessary early descent (because of the poor weather). That last place was the nicest. Omar was an excellent guide. Both he and Jamal had a great sense of humour, they did their job well, usually there was v good communication at every stage, and they were totally accountable with the tips. The first night in Hotel Kennedy was not v promising, as the toilet was broken, initially there were no towels or soaps and the room just a bit dowdy, so we were pleasantly surprised that the rest of the expedition met all expectations and upon our return, the room we had was significantly nicer. We were glad we had booked 2 extra nights.

This trip was mainly about bird watching and there were many boat trips. Highlights included seeing the roosting tree on the optional boat trip (I recommend you go on that), a carriage ride around St Louis, the giant boabab tree, the markets. The guide Assan was amazing. Any discomfort is indicated in the trip notes - public toilets not to Western standards, some hotels with no aircon nor hot water but this shouldn't impact on the overall trip.

A wonderful way to see Morocco, visiting many of the major cities (not Tangier) and travelling through High Atlas and into desert. Our tour leader Mohammed was very good, informative and well organised and we had a lovely group of like minded people. Transport was mostly by a comfortable bus with an excellent driver (Khalid) as well as a brief trip by 4WD vehicle and then by camel. Highlights for us included a visit to a Berber house, the medina at Fes, the Todra Gorge walk and the camel ride. Accommodation is functional rather than characterful with a couple of exceptions. If accommodation is important to you maybe consider one of Explore’s upgraded trips. It was perfectly fine though. Overall highly recommended.

A packed and varied itinerary with the extra bonus of seeing the king at the Akwasidae Festival, walking with elephants, visiting a monkey sanctuary and seeing the strange Picathartes bird, meeting local communities and seeing the castles where slaves were held. We had a great trip made possible by our helpful and very knowledgeable driver Prince and guide Oscar.

Overall excellent. One comment re. Georgetown. Super hot, 45 degrees. My body began to heat up at Wassau stone circles. compounded by heat within the rondavel ,where the fan only operated by the door. On the boat L developed heat stroke which was treated promptly by Asan and group members. Thanks to all.

As per previous reviews there is a lot of time spent travelling in the minibus so be prepared for this. This is necessary as some of the terrain is unsuitable for cycling. A g ood mix of cycling in the mountains and more flat terrain. Experiencing rural Morocco and people going about their every day lives was lovely. Have an overnight bag for the desert as main luggage stays put. Overall, a great holiday and highly recommended