Science of the senses, Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains: Morocco
Register now and we will contact you soon with full tour details
March 2025 – 6 days
Register for 2025 now at tours@newscientist.com and we will contact you later this year with confirmed tour details.
Embark on an unforgettable culinary journey through the vibrant heart of Morocco, where the rich flavors of Marrakech and the traditional tastes of the Atlas Mountains converge.
With its deep pink terracotta walls, the scent of orange blossom and jacaranda lined boulevards, and the sounds of snake charmers, singing and dancing water sellers in the fascinating, mediaeval bustle of the Djemaa El Fna Square this colourful, magical city has a unique, hedonistic quality that will enthral and delight.
Accompanied throughout by an expert and local guide, learn more about the science behind uniquely evocative tastes, scents and textures – from the spice markets of the ancient Medina to traditional Berber villages in the Atlas mountains, as well spectacular gardens, both aesthetically and scientifically unique.
Throughout the tour, you’ll not only indulge in mouthwatering meals but also participate in hands-on cooking classes, guided tastings, and cultural exchanges that deepen your appreciation for Morocco’s culinary heritage.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this tour offers a rich tapestry of flavours, stories, and experiences that will leave a lasting impression.
In partnership with Kirker Holidays.
DAY 1 - ARRIVE INTO MARRAKECH AND MEET THE GROUP
Welcome to Morocco! Make your own way to your hotel in Marrakech, the 4 star Jardins’ de la Medina, 25 minutes walk from Djemaa El Fna square.
In the evening, your experienced tour leader, will hold an introductory talk outlining the tour. Afterwards, you will enjoy dinner at the hotel with your fellow guests.
After dinner, your guide will lead you on a night time walk in the famous Djemaa El-Fn market square where theatre, musicians, street food and others all contribute the nightly carnival with its intoxicating atmosphere.
DAY 2 - THE SECRETS OF THE MEDINA
Today you will begin with a walking tour of the Medina. Walk through a maze of narrow colourful streets, visiting the traditional market quarters of Marrakech, a feast for the senses. You will taste some local produce, smell the fragrance of the local spices and oils, touch the texture of the local fabrics, and listen to the sounds of everyday life in the famous square of Jemaa El Fna.
After lunch at a traditional local restaurant, your guide will take you away from the main tourist areas to visit authentic local food markets, bakeries and steam baths and meet local craftsmen who will introduce us to the secrets of their ancestral skills.
DAY 3 - THE ATLAS MOUNTAINS
Today drive deep into Berber country in the heart of of the High Atlas Mountains. You will bake bread and prepare tagine in the kitchen of a village family and get to know them better over a pot of traditional mint tea. While your tagine is simmering on a stove, take a walk through the alleyways to explore the village, meet locals and discover ancestral activities still maintained by the locals.
You will assist farmers in their daily tasks, irrigating fields, herding sheep or simply cutting grass. On the way, join local artisans in their workshops, get hands on in the process of making local crafts, to get sufficient education necessary materials as well as right techniques for perfect craftsmanship.
DAY 4 - JARDIN MAJORELLE, MUSÉE YVES SANT LAURENT
This morning visit Jardin Majorelle that was famously rescued from dereliction by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, now a splendid combination of careful planting and bold colour.
You will then visit the stunning Musée Yves Saint Laurent and the Berber Museum next door, before returning to the hotel.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Moroccan cooking lesson at the hotel.
DAY 5 - OURIKA VALLEY & NECTAROME
Today you will explore the getaway to the green spaces of the first foothills of the Atlas mountains, the Ourika valley. Visit a Saffron plant to learn all about this precious spice, its cultivation, culinary use and therapeutic properties. You will be invited into ‘Nectarome,’ a botanical garden which produces natural aromatic oils for a guided tour of the whole property to discover the secrets and benefits of local plants as well as Moroccan natural cosmetic products optimized by modern science.
Enjoy a lunch prepared with the local organic vegetables and aromatic plants. Afterwards, indulge with a foot bath and massage treatment.
DAY 6 - RETURN FLIGHT HOME
After breakfast, make your own way to Marrakech airport for your flight home.