8 Day Peaks to Paradise: Atlas to Atlantic Horse Riding Holiday in Ouirgane & Essaouira, Morocco

Your trip can begin in Marrakech and end in Essaouira, or vice versa, depending on your arrival airport. For group travel, the route is fixed based on departure logistics.

Itinerary

Day 1: Diabat - Sidi Kaouki

In the morning at 11:00, you will meet your horses and your guide to prepare for the ride before setting off.

You will ride through argan forests, crossing paths with donkeys, camels, and grazing goats along the way.

You will stop for a picnic lunch under eucalyptus trees or at a cozy local restaurant, before continuing towards the charming surfer town of Sidi Kaouki.

(Depending on your arrival, the tour may also start in Sidi Kaouki, from where you will set off to explore the surroundings.)

Day 2: Sidi Kaouki (villa stay)

Begin the day with breakfast before riding through rolling countryside and traditional Berber farmland toward the Atlantic coast.

Upon reaching the shore, enjoy a refreshing canter along wide, unspoiled beaches, before returning to the villa. The afternoon is yours to unwind by the pool or relax on the terrace, followed by a freshly prepared dinner featuring local ingredients.

Depending on the day (operating hours and schedule), an alternative program may be offered. You may have the opportunity to ride through the argan forests on a scenic trail to a local argan cooperative.

Along the way, you will enjoy a picnic lunch among the argan trees. At the cooperative, you can learn how Morocco’s “liquid gold” is produced for both culinary and cosmetic use, and you will also see one of the oldest argan trees in the region.

After this trail, you will have time to relax by the pool.

This option will be discussed with the riders, as it depends on the riding level and overall group preferences.

Day 3: Sidi Kaouki - Sidi Mbarek (villa stay)

After breakfast, follow clifftop trails with sweeping ocean views toward the waterfalls of Sidi Mbarek. Enjoy a picnic lunch near the falls and, if the weather allows, take a refreshing swim in the natural pools before riding back to your villa. End the day with a Moroccan dinner.

Day 4: Sidi Kaouki – Essaouira (Riad Stay)

Enjoy breakfast at the villa before setting out on your final coastal ride, passing through sand dunes and small fishing villages along the way. After the ride, say farewell to your horses and enjoy a relaxed lunch together before transferring to your riad in the heart of Essaouira’s medina.

The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore the medina at your own pace. In the evening, you may choose to dine at one of Essaouira’s rooftop restaurants or discover local cafés and shops; dinner is at your own expense.

Optional activities such as quad tours, camel rides, or spa experiences can be arranged upon request (additional cost).

Day 5: Essaouira - Ouirgane Valley (guesthouse or Berber tent)

After breakfast, transfer to the Atlas Mountains. Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome tea and light lunch, then set off on a 3-hour afternoon ride with a picnic stop, passing olive groves and along the lake. Dinner is a freshly cooked Moroccan meal served either in your charming guesthouse or, if you choose, in a Berber tent for a true mountain experience.

Day 6: Trekking & valley exploration (guesthouse or Berber tent)

Start with breakfast before heading out on horseback to explore the valley. Ride along the river, watch locals tending their fields, and enjoy the calm of the Atlas Mountains. The lunch stop is at the local souk (market day permitting), tasting freshly baked bread and seasonal produce. Return for a relaxed evening with another traditional dinner under the stars or by the fireplace.

Day 7: Ride to the Salt Mines of Marigha and return to Marrakech (Riad Stay)

After breakfast, saddle up for your final ride along tracks to the salt mines of Marigha. Learn about this centuries-old tradition and enjoy a picnic lunch with views of the Toubkal Massif. Return to Marrakech for your final night in a riad in Marrakesh. A farewell dinner in the city can also be arranged if you wish (not included, available with extra payment)

Day 8: Departure day

Enjoy your last traditional Maroccan breakfast before you check-out.

Pictures & Videos

Pictures and videos of your trek are included. You will receive a personalized gallop video. Capture moments such as:

• Beach gallops
• Argan forest trails
• Berber village encounters
• Dune and mountain crossings

Skill level required for this tour: Intermediate to advanced

Must be comfortable with:

• Walking, trotting, and cantering / galloping
• Riding 3-8 hours per day

Age & Children Policy

• Minimum riding age: 12 years (must be experienced riders, accompanied by adult)
• Children 8+ welcome as non-riding guests with supervision
• No upper age limit, but riders must be in good physical condition
• Please contact Sand & Saddle if you want to bring a younger rider.

Check-in / check-out

• Check-in: From 10:00 on Day 1
• Check-out: After breakfast on Day 8