The 12 Days of Our Magical Moroccan Fitness Adventure
At some unknown point on our adventure, we lost track of time as the days gently blended into one another. Each moment flowed naturally into the next as we moved through Morocco, a country that surprised, delighted and welcomed us at every turn.
There were no expectations beyond hiking, moving, and immersing ourselves in something extraordinary.
I often ask, “When was the last time you did something for the first time?” Morocco gave us that opportunity again and again.
Only one of our CREW Members had been to Morocco before, so for most of us, it was a new world seen through fresh eyes. Whatever ideas we had carried about safety, religion, women’s roles or the idea of street hustlers disappeared quickly. What we discovered instead was warmth, kindness and genuine care.
From the moment we arrived, we were looked after. We were met at the airport gate and fast-tracked through customs. Our driver, Abdul and our ever present guide Lansari, greeted us with snacks and water and thought of everything throughout the journey. We were gifted leather handbags with our names written in Arabic and welcomed to our Riads with music and dancing. Nothing was ever too much trouble for our guides and hosts.
The weather was warm, the rooms were cool and every place we stayed, from hotels and Riads to the desert camp, had a pool waiting for us.
Casablanca, the Beginning
Our first night together was dinner at Rick’s Café in Casablanca. There was a mix of nerves, excitement, laughter and reconnections. The food was delicious, but what made the night truly special were the faces around the table and the sense that something memorable had begun.
Fes, Wonder Around Every Corner
From Casablanca we travelled to Fes and stayed in a beautiful Riad that had once been a palace. The owner, a young woman named Rita, had recently completed its restoration and we were only her third group of guests. When we arrived, there was music, mint tea and dancing. We had barely unpacked before we felt part of something special.
The ancient Medina of Fes was alive with colour and sound. Narrow laneways wound between stalls where hawkers, artisans and locals went about their daily lives. We explored everything from the tannery and pottery co-op to the spice stalls and bakeries. We dined everywhere, from street food to palatial restaurants and discovered new favourites. The Pastilla was a highlight, and the “thousand-hole donut” (aka the big crumpet) made everyone smile.
Hiking Beyond What Tourists See
After several days of exploring, it was time to hike. Mount Zalagh was our first trail, set in the hills behind Fes. From the summit we could see for miles across sand quarries, arid desert, farmland and rivers. Our first picnic lunch set a new benchmark. There were rugs, chairs, salads, sparkling water and proper plates. It was a moment to sit, rest and take it all in.
Because this adventure was designed as a hiking trip, we were able to see what most tourists never do. The trails took us behind the scenes and into the heart of the countryside. Every experience felt exclusive, yet authentic, never exploited. We felt deeply connected to the people and the land. Our collective energy seemed to reflect back at us, creating a gentle exchange that carried through the whole journey.
Over the following days we hiked at Ben Smim and Cèdre Gouraud Forest in the Mid Atlas Mountains. Each hike was unique, with changing landscapes and wide horizons. We were guided and supported by Rachide and Hussan, whose families prepared the most elaborate yet simple picnic lunches.
Next stop, Marrakech, a City of Energy
We finished our time in Fes with a farewell dinner at a palace, an experience none of us had ever experienced or imagined. The next morning, we travelled to Marrakech, a city of terracotta buildings, palm trees and constant movement. It was alive with energy and colour.
We shopped in the souks, wandered the Yves Saint Laurent gardens, visited the museum and dined at Rivayat. One of the most unforgettable moments was riding sidecars through Medina, weaving through the narrow streets where there were no rules. The day ended with a sunset over the desert that none of us will forget.
The Desert, Stillness and Stars
Our night at the desert camp felt like something from a dream. We rode camels, watched the sun go down and shared another feast under a vast sky filled with stars. The desert was peaceful and still. In the morning the air was cool and clear, with the promise of yet another exciting day.
At first, many of us were tentative about new experiences, but being part of a group brings courage. One person’s “I’ll try” inspires another’s “me too.” That is how confidence grows and how transformation begins.
Imlil, the Heart of the Mountains
From the desert we travelled to Imlil, the heart of Morocco’s hiking country. We spent three days exploring three valleys with three different guides. Each day offered something new and each hike was remarkable.
On one of our hikes, we were welcomed into a local home where we helped bake bread and shared mint tea. This simple ritual opened space for conversation and connection. Afterwards, we walked to a rooftop café for a Berber feast overlooking Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa.
The valleys of Ourika and Ourigane were breathtaking. The deep red earth, green terraces and wide-open views created a sense of calm and awe.
The Journey Home
And then, almost before we realised, it was over. Twelve days that felt like a lifetime. We had travelled to the other side of the world and found something completely unexpected. Morocco was generous, open and safe. It welcomed us fully.
We laughed often. We learned about ourselves and our place in the world. We returned home richer in spirit, stronger in body and filled with stories that will stay with us forever.
That is what a Women’s Fitness Adventure is all about.
Ready to Experience It for Yourself?
If Morocco is calling, we’d love to have you join us on our next Women’s Fitness Adventure. These small-group hiking experiences are designed to help you see the world differently, move with purpose, and share moments that stay with you long after you return home.
Register your interest now for our next Morocco Fitness Adventure in 2026, click here.
