DESTINATION: Morocco
Atlas Mountains & Desert Adventures
12 days, 11 nights - January 2027 TBA
Limited to 10 people
Empowering Young Moroccan Women in Collaboration with Education for All (EFA)
Kindness:
At the heart of this journey is our partnership with Education for All (EFA)—a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to education for girls in rural Morocco.
In many Atlas Mountain communities, girls face significant barriers to continuing their education due to distance, safety, and limited resources. Education for All works to change this by providing safe, supportive boarding houses close to schools, ensuring girls have the opportunity to stay in school and pursue their dreams.
During our time together, we’ll connect with girls from the local collège in Ouirgane and surrounding communities.
Over three full days, we divide into small groups, each supported by 2–3 Kindness Adventures leaders. Together, we rotate through a series of creative and interactive workshops:
Photography – storytelling through a new lens
Cooking – sharing culture through food
Yoga & Wellness – building confidence and connection to self
Art & Creativity – expression, imagination, and joy
This is not about teaching—it’s about sharing, listening, and growing together. The experience is fluid, evolving based on the energy and ideas of both the women and the girls.
Through connection, mentorship, and creativity, we aim to:
Build confidence and self-expression
Foster cross-cultural understanding
Support the incredible work already being done by Education for All
Adventures:
This is not just a trip—it’s a journey of connection, contribution, and discovery.
In the heart of the Atlas Mountains, we'll spend meaningful time with young girls through our partnership with Education for All, sharing stories, creativity, and life experiences. Together, we'll co-create workshops, build confidence, and form bonds that transcend culture and language.
Then everything shifts.
We leave behind the mountains and the rhythm of village life and head toward the vast, open expanse of the Sahara. The landscape slowly changes—green valleys fade into ochre earth, then into endless sand.
Here, we begin our camel trek into the desert.
Walking alongside the camels—sometimes riding, sometimes barefoot in the sand—you move deeper into the dunes. There are no roads, no towns, no distractions. Just our group, the guides, the camels… and silence.
We’ll spend two nights in a traditional desert bivouac, surrounded by rolling dunes that stretch as far as you can see. At sunset, you climb the highest ridge and watch the light soften across the sand. At night, the sky explodes with stars—clear, vast, and humbling.
This is where something shifts internally.
Space opens. Perspective changes.
From connection… to contribution… to stillness.
This is the essence of Kindness Adventures:
Give back. Step outside your comfort zone. Come home renewed and forever changed
Empowering women to make a difference through kindness and adventure
Itinerary
January 2027
Atlas Mountains Kindness & Desert Adventure
Please note this itinerary may be subject to minor changes to ensure the best possible experience.
Welcome to Kindness Adventures Morocco!
Trip Highlights
5 nights immersed in a peaceful Atlas Mountain village, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes
Meaningful, hands-on connection with local girls through a shared kindness project
Small group workshop rotations—photography, cooking, yoga, and art—designed for real connection and creativity
Full Marrakech immersion-vibrant souks, rich culture, an unforgettable backstreet food experience and SHOPPING!
Stay in a women-run riad, complete with a traditional hammam experience
Visit a local potter and experience traditional craftsmanship firsthand
Share a meal in a local home and visit a date farm—authentic, home-cooked food and cultural connection at its best
Guided hike through the High Atlas Mountains, including a trek to a traditional kasbah
3 day - 2-night Sahara Desert camel treking - across golden dunes, walking and riding through vast, untouched landscapes
Evenings under the stars in a traditional desert bivouac, surrounded by silence and endless sky
Space for reflection, personal growth, and deep connection—with yourself, the group, and the world around you
Arrival Day
Get ready for an incredible journey as we arrive in Marrakesh. We’ll be staying our first night and nights 5 and 6 at the stunning Riad Cinnamon, an exquisitely renovated traditional Moroccan house offering a magical, fairy-tale-like atmosphere. Here, you can unwind in the tranquil surroundings, sip fresh orange juice by the pool, or enjoy a refreshing mint tea on the patio.
Overnight at Riad Cinnamon
Day 1-5 – Travel to the Atlas Mountains and Connection with our girls
Day 1 – Into the Atlas + First Connections
Leave the energy of the city behind as we wind your way into the High Atlas Mountains. The scenery shifts dramatically—lush valleys, terraced hillsides, and quiet villages.
Arrive at Ouirgane Ecolodge - a peaceful mountain retreat nestled in the Atlas Mountains, surrounded by olive groves and sweeping valley views. Built with natural materials and rooted in sustainability, it offers a simple yet beautiful space to slow down, connect, and fully immerse in the experience. Comfortable rooms, nourishing local meals, and quiet moments under the stars make it the perfect home during the kindness portion of the journey. We will be here for the next 5 nights.
In the afternoon, we’ll meet the girls for the first time and ease into connection through fun, lighthearted icebreaker activities that spark laughter, curiosity, and ease. As the initial nerves fade and energy builds, genuine connection begins to take shape. Following this, we’ll divide into small groups—one or two Kindness leaders with 5–7 girls—creating a more intimate space where relationships can grow over the days ahead.
Days 2–4 – Community, Creativity & Connection
These are the heart of your experience—and where the magic happens.
Each day, we’ll break into small groups and rotate through a series of shared workshops with the girls. (Activities are subject to change and will be shaped by local partners and the group.)
Photography – Guided by a local photographer, we’ll sit side by side capturing moments of daily life, learning to see the world through each other’s eyes.
Cooking Experience – Join a renowned local chef to prepare a traditional Moroccan meal together, then gather to enjoy what you’ve created—full of flavour, laughter, and connection.
Hiking & Yoga – The girls will lead us into their mountains—places they know and love—followed by a yoga and movement session led by Jax, focused on confidence, connection, and fun.
Creative Workshops – Through art, drawing, and imagination, we’ll create together in a space where expression flows freely and joy needs no translation.
Evenings bring the Kindness team back together—sharing stories, processing the day, and deepening bonds within your circle.
Overnight at Ouirgane Ecolodge
Day 5-6 – Farewell and on to Marrakech
Day 5 – Celebration & Transition
Our final morning with the girls is filled with emotion.
Together, we’ll share a closing celebration—presentations, a meal, and a gratitude circle that often includes tears, laughter, and moments we’ll never forget.
Then, we return to Marrakech.
The energy shifts again—mountain stillness gives way to vibrant streets, colors, and sounds. Settle into our riad and enjoy a relaxed evening - oops not relaxed - we go to the back street food tour!!!
Overnight at Riad Cinnamon
Day 6 – Marrakech Exploration
Today, immerse ourself in the vibrant energy of Marrakech. Begin with a guided tour through the city’s rich history and culture, wandering through hidden alleyways, historic sites, and lively squares.
Spend the afternoon exploring the souks—filled with colorful textiles, handcrafted goods, spices, and treasures at every turn. Take our time, practice our bargaining skills, and soak in the atmosphere of this unforgettable city.
End the day with a truly special experience—an unforgettable meal at a friend’s riad, where w’ll enjoy some of the best food in Marrakech in an intimate, welcoming setting
Overnight at Riad Cinnamon
Day 7 From Marrakech to the Desert’s Edge
Breakfast early morning at Riad Cinnamon - we will be met by our drivers for the next 5 days. Drive through the Atlas Mountains via Tizi'n Tichka Pass (2260m), descending into the southern region. Explore the Ounila Valley’s scenic villages en route to Aït Ben Haddou for lunch at a women’s cooperative and a village tour, including the Museum of Oral Traditions.
Continue across arid plains, stopping at the Wilgane Pass (1290m) for valley views. Visit Ouarzazate, the historic gateway to the desert, known for its Taourirt medina and Tifoultoute kasbah. Pass through the Tifoultout palm grove and arrive at Talmasla by evening, overlooking Ouarzazate Lake and the Atlas Mountains. Dar Daif is our riah - all women run- and relax in authentic hamman.
Dinner and Overnight at Dar Daïf
Day 8- A Scenic Expedition Through the Draa Valley
Start our day with breakfast on a sunny terrace overlooking Ouarzazate Lake and the Atlas Mountains. Depart at 8 a.m. by 4x4, ascending through the Tinifift Pass in the Anti-Atlas range. As you descend into the Tizgui Gorge, follow a scenic route along the upper Draa Gorge, with stunning views of the craggy Jbel Saghro and the majestic Atlas peaks stretching in the distance.
Arrive in the town of Agdz, then continue along winding roads through the Draa Valley. Stop at Tamnougalt to explore its historic fortified kasbah before heading to a local date farm. Enjoy a guided walk through the traditional village and lush gardens, followed by a homemade lunch at the farm.
In the afternoon, make a short detour to the Foum Chenna petroglyph site, featuring ancient rock carvings of human figures, hunting scenes, and wildlife along the cliffs. After an hour of exploring the petroglyphs, return to the Draa Valley road, lined with lush palm groves, and continue south to reach Zagora by evening. Settle into a small kasbah, where we can relax on the terrace, unwind by the pool, and enjoy dinner before the day concludes.
Overnight at Fibule fibule-zagora.com/en
Day 9-10 – A Journey Through the Heart of the Sahara
Enjoy a sunrise breakfast in the cool, enchanting garden before heading a few kilometers south to the old village of Tamgrout. Here, we’ll be welcomed by our friend Atmane, a potter, and take a walking tour to see the famous emerald green and amazonite glazed pottery that has adorned palaces and mosques for centuries. We’ll wander through the adobe village, with its unique Saharan architecture and semi-subterranean alleys, and visit the renowned religious center and ancient library, which houses a collection of illuminated Qur’ans and 13th-century books on astronomy and poetry.
We’ll then continue along the scenic Draa gorge and palm grove to reach M’hamid El Ghizlane, the last village on the edge of the desert at the base of the Jbel Bani. From here, we’ll travel in a 4x4 for 1.5 hours along a sandy plain following the Draa River until we arrive at the Chgaga dunes, where we’ll meet the camel team. Our 2.5-day trek begins with witnessing the camels being loaded before setting off on foot for a 3-hour journey deep into the heart of the southeast Chgaga dunes.
Overnight in Jax's definition of "Glamping" in the desert
Day 11 – Camel Trek and Scenic Journey from Chgaga Dunes to Marrakech
The journey begins by crossing the western Chgaga dunes, walking and riding camels along wind-rounded ridges for about 5 hours. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cultural exchanges throughout the day.
The next day, we trek across the northwest of the Chgaga dunes for 3 hours before bidding farewell to our camel companions. Afterward, we travel by 4x4 across Lake Iriki, passing L'mdor Mountain and the Acacia-dotted plain until we reach Foum Z’guid, the last village at the desert’s edge. The route follows the palm groves and valleys of the Anti-Atlas mountains to Taznakht, known for its colorful rugs. We continue through arid plains, rivers, and adobe villages, eventually crossing the Atlas Mountains at Tizi’n Tichka, with a stop for lunch. We descend through the Haouz plain, reaching Marrakech by 10 p.m. after 10 hours of travel.
Overnight in a Hotel
Thank you!
Day 12– Final Farewell
We will gather for a heartfelt farewell before heading to the airport. In addition to our planned activities, we will cover the Kindness Development Program developed by Isabela Minogue, highlighting the positive impact of kindness throughout our journey.
Registration
Registration
Limited to 10 people.
$5550
INCLUDES:
- 12 days / 11 nights
- Shared accommodations*
- All meals
- All ground transportation
- All activities
- $1000 Donation to Education for All (EFA)
Payment Details
Pay via credit card, debit card or bank transfer (ACH).
NOTE: Please see note regarding fees on registration page.
DEADLINE: Nov 1, 2026
If you require a payment plan, please contact jax@kindnessadventures.org.
NOT Included
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Flights to/from Marrakesh RAK
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Personal trip Insurance including repatriation and rescue in
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Tips
Cancellation Policy
If you must cancel a reservation, we will provide a full refund, less $500, which is non-refundable. We must receive your cancellation in writing at least 60 days before the Kindness Adventure trip's start date. We are sorry, but we cannot refund any payments for cancellations made after 60 days.
We reserve the right to cancel the trip with inadequate participant interest. Kindness Adventures IS NOT responsible for any personal expenses, such as airline tickets, due to changes in schedules or tour cancellations.
Morocco
Education for All
Education for All (EFA) is a charity that builds and runs boarding houses near secondary schools in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco, allowing girls from rural villages to continue their education. Due to distance and lack of resources, most girls from these communities do not attend secondary school. EFA's boarding houses provide a safe environment for education, helping many girls escape cycles of poverty and illiteracy. Many graduates have gone on to pursue university degrees and become role models for other young women.
In September 2023, a devastating earthquake struck the High Atlas region, severely damaging Asni, where four EFA boarding houses are located, and completely destroying Talaat n’Yakoub, home to two more. As a result, EFA relocated schools and boarding facilities to Marrakech, renting temporary housing to continue supporting the girls.
Event Details
Accommodations
Accommodations are shared during our trip. If you would prefer a private room, please register accordingly.
If you would like to arrive early, please let us know and we can provide you with hotel information.
Meals & Beverages
We will do our best to ensure you have healthy, happy meals. Please let us know your specific dietary requests.
When dining out, we will do our best to ensure a good selection of options.
A survey of food preferences will be sent after registration.
Preparation & Packing
We will have 3 Zoom calls. Two before our trip and one post-trip.
Dates and times TBD.
Scroll down for Packing List.
Requirements & Deadlines
You will be required to complete several documents after you register.
These will provide us with information regarding your travel arrangements and requirements as well as event-related documents that require your review and signature:
Personal Statement Performa — (due by NOV 30,2026) used to design activities and match you to those that best fit your skills and interests.
Kindness Adventures' Release and Assumption of Risk
Kindness Adventures' Audio-Visual Release
People & Places' Volunteer Compliance Agreement Form which includes: Code of Conduct, Child Protection Policy and Photography Code of Conduct
In addition, you will be required to
provide a basic background check verification
purchase personal liability travel insurance
DEADLINE: All documents, other than the Personal Statement Performa, are due no later than NOV 30, 2026
Airlines & Airport
Arrive at Marrakesh RAK Airport no later than TBA
Depart Marrakesh anytime on TBA.
Travel Insurance
You are required to purchase your personal liability travel insurance and Repatriation and rescue insurance: you must have a copy of your policy with the precise number and contact details. If you do not have rescue insurance, check out https://www.globalrescue.com https://medjetassist.com
Please be aware that many travel policies will not include coverage for your time at work. Most travel insurance covers absolutely everything & anything, but only if you're at leisure. We strongly advise you to check that your policy includes coverage for your time at work as a volunteer, particularly for your own personal liability.
COVID Protocols & Border Crossing
Currently, there are no COVID protocols.
For the safety of our guests and our local community, we recommend vaccinations and encourage you to test before embarking on this adventure.
Activities and Fitness
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Easy to Medium
Itinerary & Program Updates
In order to provide you with the best experience, we may adjust the program components due to weather or other schedule considerations.
Refer back to the website for the latest information.
Questions?
Kindness Adventures & Trip Details
Contact: Jacqueline Stanford
WhatsApp: +1 818-331-9955
Email: Jax@KindnessAdventures.org
Morocco Packing List
Given the mild but varying temperatures in Marrakesh in January , here are some packing tips to ensure comfort and preparedness:
Layering is Key
Daytime Wear: Since temperatures can range from 17°C to 21°C (63°F to 70°F) during the day, pack lightweight, breathable clothing for when it’s sunny. T-shirts, light long-sleeve shirts, and lightweight pants or long skirts would be ideal.
Evening Wear: Nights can get cooler, dropping to around 7°C to 8°C (45°F to 46°F), so pack a warm sweater, a fleece, or a light jacket. Layering allows you to adjust your clothing throughout the day as temperatures change.
Footwear
Comfortable walking shoes or trail running shoes with good grip are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the city or hike in nearby areas. Sandals can be useful for casual outings or inside your accommodation.
Conservative Clothing
In respect to the local culture, pack modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially if you plan to visit religious sites or venture into more remote areas. A shawl or scarf can be useful to cover your head and shoulders when necessary.
Accessories
Hat and Sunglasses: Even in winter, the Moroccan sun can be quite strong. A hat or visor and a good pair of sunglasses will protect you from the sun.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: SPF 30+ sunscreen is advisable to protect against sunburn, and lip balm will help keep your lips from drying out.
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially if you're out in the sun for extended periods.
Miscellaneous
Daypack: A small daypack can be handy for carrying essentials like water, sunscreen, snacks, and a camera while exploring.
Hand Sanitizer and Tissues: These are practical for situations where water or toilet paper may not be available.
Empty Suitcase: If you plan on shopping, an extra, foldable suitcase for souvenirs and local goods can be very useful.
Weather Preparedness
While rain is unlikely during your trip, a lightweight waterproof jacket could be helpful in case of unexpected showers.
Indoor Comfort
Bring sturdy socks or light slippers, as Moroccans typically remove their shoes inside homes. This will keep you comfortable and respectful when visiting local homes or accommodations
Health and Safety
Medication: Bring any necessary prescription medication, and consider over-the-counter basics like pain relievers or rehydration tablets.
Bug Spray: Even in winter, there might be mosquitoes, so pack insect repellent, particularly if you’re prone to bites.
Conclusion
Packing with versatility in mind will allow you to adapt to Marrakesh's variable weather and cultural expectations. By following these tips, you can enjoy a comfortable and respectful stay while making the most of your time in this vibrant city.
Kindness Adventures is a 501c3 non-profit tax ID#92-2242927 empowering women to make a difference through kindness and adventures. Your donation supports the work of the non-profits we support, helps to provide scholarship funds for women traveling to Kindness Destinations and other operational needs.