Profile photo for Megan Lower
20471 messages
active 15 hours ago

Megan Lower

I am the director of Wanderlust Voyages and the primary point of contact for travelers. I view travel as a way to expand your world view, learning about different cultures and immersing yourself in the local experience. I'm not a fan of traveling halfway around the world (or even just across the nearest border) just to stay in familiar hotels, eat familiar food, and try to go about the cities/towns the way you would at home. Travel is about enjoying new destinations and experiences to their fullest, which means visiting local restaurants, unique accommodations, and, when possible, talking to local residents.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"All of Morocco. From Tangier to the Sahara to Marrakech, and everything in between. Whether you are looking for luxury, adventure, history, or any combination thereof, we can put together the perfect itinerary for you. "

How did you get involved in travel?

"I am a lawyer-turned-travel-expert, a journey that began with my first trip to the Sahara Desert. I was so enchanted with Morocco, and the desert region in particular, that I wanted to share it with everyone. This started the conversation with my husband, Belghit (who was born in nearby Rissani), about how we could accomplish bringing friends, family, anyone and everyone to explore the wonders of Morocco. Since then, I dove headfirst into the travel business, expanding my knowledge of both the industry and Morocco. I've already been there more times than I can count, and each time I go, I visit more accommodations, try out new activities, and seek to increase my knowledge of the country, from the ever-changing popular cities like Fes and Marrakech to the more obscure off-the-beaten-path areas like Oujda and Taroudant."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"Oh, so many... From transportation adventures to interactions with wild animals to weather failing to cooperate, there are always things that can make travel a unique experience. However, one of the most eye-opening and unique experiences was part of that first trip to the Sahara. I went to visit the home where Belghit grew up. It was a mud-brick house part of an ancient ksar that dates back to the 1700s. Making our way through the winding path inside, cool in the dark away from the bright sun, passing by old mule stalls, a well that once served as their primary source of water, and climbing up the winding steps to bare mud rooms, each opening into a central courtyard. The kitchen still contained a daubed mud oven for baking bread and no running water. It looked like something that you would expect to be from centuries past, not a mere two decades. And yet, that's how Belghit grew up, running down the road to his family's date farm. It was an incredible experience, very eye-opening, and one I will never forget."

Megan is part of the following groups: Morocco Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Luxury itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Megan

Morocco was a once in a lifetime trip for me....
Morocco | Oct 26 - Nov 1, 2024

Amy
Amy H.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Dec 06, 2024
Morocco was a once in a lifetime trip for me. I wish we could have spent more time in some of the accommodations and planned for downtime to enjoy the area. Read more

Morocco was a once in a lifetime trip for me. I wish we could have spent more time in some of the accommodations and planned for downtime to enjoy the area.

Hotel Reviews
Palais Sebban
Marrakech

All the rooms are different! My room was nice but over the courtyard that people ate dinner so I wasn't able to sleep until they were done cleaning up. For me, I listened to a book and relaxed.

Authenticity & Character
Location
The medina is noisy and crowded, but it is quiet once you enter the hotel.
Staff
One was a bit grumpy on the morning we were leaving. Everyone else was helpful and courteous.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The bathroom was a bit musty because you couldn't open any windows to let the humidity of the bathroom.
Palais Faraj Suites & Spa
Fès
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Madu Luxury Camp
Merzouga

This camp was nicer than I expected. We arrived in the early evening and there wasn't any hot water left to take a shower. I also couldn't get the heater in my tent to work. The location was gorgeous and the staff were nice.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Les Jardins de Skoura
Skoura

The hotel was nice but we arrived so late we didn't get a chance to see much of the grounds and enjoy the various gardens.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Tour Fes with a Private Guide
Tour Fes with a Private Guide
Fes

This tour was another informative one with a good guide and interesting stops. There is no way you can walk around the medina without a guide.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lunch with a local family
Lunch with a local family
Morocco

Khalid and Mohammed starting our trip to Morocco with a special lunch. We learned more about the families. The food was good.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Camel Trek into a Luxury Sahara Camp
Camel Trek into a Luxury Sahara Camp
Morocco

I wasn't sure about riding a camel but I had so much fun. I am not a fan of horses but found the camel easy going.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Food Tour
Food Tour
Marrakesh

I got to try new foods.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tour Marrakech with a private guide
Tour Marrakech with a private guide
Marrakesh

The tour was good. The guide was interesting and helpful. It seems like he is the mayor of that area. Everyone knew him.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
SUV excursion in the Sahara
SUV excursion in the Sahara
Morocco

I enjoyed stopping and seeing the villages in the dunes. We stopped and saw a show. The tour went longer due to a rainstorm washing out the road to the gorge.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sahara to Skoura via Todra Gorge
Sahara to Skoura via Todra Gorge
Morocco

So we didn't see Todra Gorge, but ended up experiencing a snowstorm while driving through the Atlas mountains. The day was long due to roads being washed out. Our driver was good and we all made the best of a change in our plans.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Skoura to Marrakech, via Ouarzazate and Ait BenHaddou
Skoura to Marrakech, via Ouarzazate and Ait BenHaddou
Morocco

We were a bit tired from the day before, so our energy level was a lower. Khalid was great.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Megan Lower

The first tour in Seville was with Julio who ...
Spain | Oct 19 - Oct 26, 2024

Amy
Amy H.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Dec 06, 2024
The first tour in Seville was with Julio who did a great job talking about the history of the sites. The flamenco show that evening was a little disappointing because it said we were supposed to be there for three hours, but the show was actually just over an hour. Not sure the price we paid was worth the experience. Cristina's tour was one of the highlights of the trip. Again, the itinerary said it was a two hour tour but it turned out to be over four hours. The amount of knowledge and her... Read more

The first tour in Seville was with Julio who did a great job talking about the history of the sites. The flamenco show that evening was a little disappointing because it said we were supposed to be there for three hours, but the show was actually just over an hour. Not sure the price we paid was worth the experience.

Cristina's tour was one of the highlights of the trip. Again, the itinerary said it was a two hour tour but it turned out to be over four hours. The amount of knowledge and her stories made me appreciate the history. She also took us around to see the courtyard garden contestant winners.

The day trip to Nerja & Frigilana was special. The guide was fabulous. I enjoyed getting to know him and seeing Spain through his experiences. The following day was a guided trip to Ronda, which was nice to see.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Giralda Center
Sevilla
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Soho Boutique Capuchinos Hotel
Córdoba

The room was odd and the charged us even though they had been paid. The breakfast was in the basement. I wouldn't recommend using the hotel again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room Mate Leo
Granada
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Caterina Victoria
Malaga
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Flamenco Show
Flamenco Show
Seville

The itinerary said this was going to be a three hour show but it was just over an hour. Not worth the money.

Quality of Experience
Mosque- Cathedral of Cordoba
Mosque- Cathedral of Cordoba
Córdoba
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tour of the Alhambra
Tour of the Alhambra
Granada
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Free time in Granada
Free time in Granada
Granada

We didn't have any.

Day Trip to Nerja & Frigiliana
Day Trip to Nerja & Frigiliana
Spain

The guide was incredible. I discussed on the first part of the review.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Day trip to Ronda
Day trip to Ronda
Málaga

The guide was wonderful.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tapas Tour
Tapas Tour
Spain

I don't drink so I was sure how the tour was going to go for me, but we met some really fun and nice people and had a great time. I haven't laughed that much for awhile.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guided Tour of Seville’s Cathedral, Alcázar & Giralda
Guided Tour of Seville’s Cathedral, Alcázar & Giralda
Seville

See earlier comment.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Megan Lower

A Magical Morocco Experience ✨
Morocco | Nov 16 - Nov 27, 2024

Sarah
Sarah W.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Dec 05, 2024
My husband and I recently did a 12-day tour with Wanderlust Voyages in Morocco. It was incredible -- and I do not have sufficient words to describe how strongly I recommend Wanderlust. We had a positive experience from the initial inquiry through to our drop-off at the airport. We chose to do a custom itinerary, starting and ending in Marrakech (where I was traveling for work). We visited Marrakech, the Boulmane Dades, Erg Chebbi, Fes, Chefchauouen, Rabat, Casablanca, and then back to... Read more

My husband and I recently did a 12-day tour with Wanderlust Voyages in Morocco. It was incredible -- and I do not have sufficient words to describe how strongly I recommend Wanderlust. We had a positive experience from the initial inquiry through to our drop-off at the airport.

We chose to do a custom itinerary, starting and ending in Marrakech (where I was traveling for work). We visited Marrakech, the Boulmane Dades, Erg Chebbi, Fes, Chefchauouen, Rabat, Casablanca, and then back to Marrakech. We began our inquiry with Wanderlust with a detailed survey and Megan and her team did an amazing job of pulling together an itinerary that captured everything we were interested in, making recommendations about when/where to do certain activities, and identifying absolutely incredible riads and lodging. They were also incredibly quick in responding, making adjustments that we were interested in, and providing additional detail and information when we asked.

Our itinerary was perfect -- and complete kudos go to Megan and the team for pulling together such a stellar trip! The only thing I would change would be to add another night at Erg Chebbi (giving us two total) so that we could have a full desert day -- but that would have required a longer trip. Everything from the riads they selected, to the balance of guided tours, free time, activities, and sight-seeing was perfect. This was the first trip I've booked through a travel agency, and I would 100% do it again.

I also want to give a special shout-out, thank you, and note of appreciation to our incredible driver, Hassan Amraoui. Our experience would not have been the same without him. Hassan went out of his way to give us an amazing experience. He doubled as a tour guide, kept everything running smoothly, on-time, and hassle-free, and did it all with such positive energy & a smile on his face. We left Morocco feeling like we gained a true friend during our stay! Hassan, thank you!

Our trip highlights included:
- Marrakech & the many sights and activities that the medina has to offer. The detailed architecture is truly breathtaking, and each stop in Marrakech presents something special and unique.
- Erg Chebbi. INCREDIBLE. The rolling dunes of sand are breathtaking, and the desert luxury camp is a must-see!
- Fes was such a fun city & so, so different from Marrakech. We were very grateful to have a guide in the medina -- it's not an easy one to navigate! But, a must-see!
- Chefchaouen. A beautiful town, and wandering through the medina spalshed in hundreds of shades of blue was phenomenal.
- Hammam. A must-do! We did ours at Riad Kniza in Marrakech and it was the perfect way to relax, and wind down after a long trip.
- We particularly loved our two riads in Marrakech: La Maison Arabe and Riad Kniza. They were absolutely stunning.

Thank you Megan, Winnie, Hassan, and the many guides and riad staff who gave us such an unforgettable, magical experience in Morocco. We would love to return!

Hotel Reviews
La Maison Arabe
Marrakech

La Maison Arabe was one of our absolute favorite stays in Morocco. It was stunning. The attention to detail throughout each room in this riad -- including hallways -- is phenomenal. The service was amazing, the staff were friendly, helpful, and attentive, and our suite was beautiful. We have nothing but positive reviews for La Maison Arabe, and highly recommend! It's also very close to the main square in the medina and easy to walk -- both during the day and at night -- to so many of the nearby sites.

Authenticity & Character
The authenticity and attention to detail throughout the riad is incredbile!
Location
The location is excellent -- so close to many of the major sites and the medina, and easy to get to/from. I felt safe walking around both during the day and at night.
Staff
The staff were friendly, helpful, and attentive!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ksar Sultan Dades
El Hart

The lodging options & stays in the Boumalne Dades are limited, and the Ksar Sultan definitely seemed to be among the better options. We enjoyed our stay there, but it definitely wasn't as nice as some of the other places we stayed. The room was simple, but very clean. The hot water didn't work well in the evening, but seemed to work in the morning. The food -- both dinner and breakfast -- was excellent, and the staff were very warm and welcoming!

Authenticity & Character
The hotel is authentic and has a lot of nice touches!
Location
The hotel is very far from the town center. I would plan on staying at the hotel for meals (the food is excellent!). I think that if we had more time in the area, we would have ventured out more, but we were just there for the night.
Staff
The staff were incredibly helpful and attentive.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The hotel was very clean, but definitely lacking on a few comforts that we had in other areas. The bathroom, for example, is a fully glass room, with a curtian that doesn't fully separate the bathroom from the main room, making privacy a bit awkward. Hot water came & went, but that's to be expected when travelling!
Riad Madu Premium Camp
Merzouga

Riad Madu Premium Camp is absolutely incredible & I cannot recommend enough. The camp is stunning and the experience is one of a kind. The staff were incredibly attentive, welcoming, and kind and we loved our stay here. My only wish is that we had another day so that we could have done more of the activities & exploration of the dunes during the day! Highly recommend!

Authenticity & Character
The special touches at the camp were amazing -- from the desert lounge area to the bonfire & music to the tent, we loved it all!
Location
Absolutely one of a kind!
Staff
The staff were all kind, attentive, and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
This was the most comfortable camp I have ever been to. The rooms are stunning, and have amazing amenities -- especially for being out in the desert!
Dar Victoria
Fez

We loved Dar Victoria! It had such a unique, authentic character and layout, and the staff were all incredibly kind, welcoming, and helpful. The suites are spacious and beautiful, and the food at the hotel -- both the dinner and the breakfast provided -- is amazing.

Authenticity & Character
It's clear that a lot of attention to detail went into the design. Beautiful!
Location
The location is great! The hotel is in the medina, but towards the edge, so you can easily walk out to the main roads. For the medina, consider a guide! It's tricky to navigate alone, and the maps/online apps aren't accurate. We were grateful to have a guide!
Staff
The staff were so helpful, attentive, and kind.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Puerta Azul
Chefchaouen

Puerta Azul is beautiful, but we found ourselves missing the typical Moroccan Riad at this one! The hotel staff are incredibly kind and welcoming, but you definitely get more of a hotel feel rather than the riad (e.g., with the welcome tea, tailored staff, etc.). But, Puerta Azul is clean and comfortable, and easy to navigate to the medina from.

Authenticity & Character
The hotel really embraces the 'blue city' vibe and has gone above & beyond to decorate and fit the blue feel of Chefchaouen.
Location
The hotel is near the medina, but a bit of a walk (10-15 min). Depending on the experience you are looking for, riads within the medina might be a better fit!
Staff
The staff were excellent - very attentive, helpful, and welcoming.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Kalaa 2
Rabat

Riad Kalaa was excellent! The staff were welcoming & helpful, and the riad is in a great location -- very easy to walk through the medina and navigate. The rooms and courtyard are stunning -- we loved our stay here! We also ventured to Riad Kalaa 1 for dinner -- hands-down one of the best meals we had in Morocco. Highly recommend!

Authenticity & Character
The authentic feel and detail of Riad Kalaa 2 is amazing.
Location
Easy to find and navigate through the medina!
Staff
The staff were very helpful & welcoming.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Kniza
Marrakech

There are not enough stars or words to capture how much we loved Riad Kniza. WOW. This riad is stunning and the service from the staff is unbeatable. The riad is beautiful with such intricate, amazing detail throughout & the food is phenmonal -- you must do a dinner while you stay here. We also loved the hammam - highly recommend!

Authenticity & Character
It doesn't get better than this! The character, the authenticity, and the experience created here are unmatched.
Location
Riad Kniza is in such a fun part of the medina, and it's very easy to navigate through/around the medina from here. We felt incredibly safe and comfortable walking around, including at night.
Staff
Incredible. The staff are warm & wecoming and go above and beyond. They are super attentive and willing to help in any way.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Megan Lower

Outstanding Andalucia Adcenture
Spain | Oct 19 - Oct 26, 2024

Michelle
Michelle G.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Nov 19, 2024
Enjoyed a fabulous trip through Andalucia (Southern Spain) organized by Megan. This was an add-on to the original trip we spoke to Megan about but she delivered a wonderful itinerary hitting all the sights we were interested in visiting, or explained why some sights were too difficult to incorporate given the schedule. The guides we had along the way were excellent - knowledgeable, friendly and very welcoming to their city. They felt like friends after our time spent with each of them. Love... Read more

Enjoyed a fabulous trip through Andalucia (Southern Spain) organized by Megan. This was an add-on to the original trip we spoke to Megan about but she delivered a wonderful itinerary hitting all the sights we were interested in visiting, or explained why some sights were too difficult to incorporate given the schedule. The guides we had along the way were excellent - knowledgeable, friendly and very welcoming to their city. They felt like friends after our time spent with each of them. Love that it was a customized itinerary just for us - made us feel truly special! Accommodations were great and centrally located. Megan was quite responsive during the planning phase anytime we had a question. I would recommend Megan to my family and friends and anyone looking to travel through this region.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Giralda Center
Sevilla

Great location - not far from train station and close to Plaza de Espana and other sights. Room was very modern, spacious and comfortable. (Room size is comparable to US hotels.) Breakfast buffet was separate. We found out on Day 2 that you can do a la carte breakfast in the bar/restaurant area and it was very affordable. (Not too many cafes walking distance to grab a coffee in the morning.)

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Soho Boutique Capuchinos Hotel
Córdoba

We walked here from the train station - approx 15 mins. (No Ubers available but after we did the trek it wasn’t a bad walk.) We had rooms on the ground level but it was interesting that the window was to the interior core of the building. It wasn’t loud and we didn’t spend too much extra time in the room so it wasn’t an issue. Breakfast was included.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room Mate Leo
Granada

Centrally located in Downtown Granada just a few blocks from the Cathedral. Ubers/taxis can’t drop you off at the door because it’s located inside the business area (pedestrian only) but it’s only a short walk from the main street to the hotel entrance. Rooms were very modern and rooms comfortable. Breakfast is not included but there are coffee shop options a few doors down. Front desk staff was helpful with dining recommendations when we first arrived.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Caterina Victoria
Malaga

This isn’t a hotel but apartment. Bathrooms were a little tight on space but the room was large enough and the living area (dining, sitting area and kitchenette) was plenty big and you could really spread out there. We got dropped off by the Cathedral and since this apartment is located in the pedestrian area, it’s a little bit of a walk through some busy pedestrian streets depending on the time of day. There are bars located at the base of the building so there can be noise depending on how your apartment is situated or what game is playing. Since it’s an apartment, don’t expect daily cleaning or on-site personnel, which was fine with us. But their manager was great in getting in touch a week before our arrival to confirm our reservation and provide instruction on how to find the apartments. There were grocery stores and coffee shops nearby if we needed snacks and drinks. There was also a Nespresso-type coffee maker in the apartment.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The apartment manager was great about getting in contact with us a week before our arrival to confirm our travel details.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Guided Tour of Seville’s Cathedral, Alcázar & Giralda
Guided Tour of Seville’s Cathedral, Alcázar & Giralda
Seville

Julio was great! Very friendly, informative tour and always happy to answer questions that we had.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Julio spoke excellent English for us non-Spanish speaking travelers.
Transport
It was a walking tour so no separate transport was used. But the paths we walked were fantastic.
Tapas Tour
Tapas Tour
Spain

Really enjoyed this food tour. Our guide was a former restauranteur so she could speak in-depth about the food that was presented. Everything we sampled was delicious and we did a small “crawl” or walk from stop to stop. I have a new appreciation for Spanish olive oil.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tour of the Alhambra
Tour of the Alhambra
Granada

The Alhambra is a must see in Granada and I am happy to have toured it with a guide who can explain so much more of the wonderful history and ornate architecture. We did a morning tour and it was still busy as there are some school groups that visit during the week.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Megan Lower

Trip to Morocco was unforgettable. Megan pro...
Morocco | Oct 21 - Oct 30, 2024

Sue
Sue S.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Nov 14, 2024
Trip to Morocco was unforgettable. Megan provided excellent service and answered our every question in a timely manner. Thank you Megan! Our first exerience with a local guide was not as pleasant. Our ferry was delayed and the first words out of our guides mouth was, "I've been waiting for 3 hours". We were tired, hungry and traumatized by trying to navigate our way to the ferry and then find him and didn't appreciate his negativity. However our guide for the week more than made up for it.... Read more

Trip to Morocco was unforgettable. Megan provided excellent service and answered our every question in a timely manner. Thank you Megan! Our first exerience with a local guide was not as pleasant. Our ferry was delayed and the first words out of our guides mouth was, "I've been waiting for 3 hours". We were tired, hungry and traumatized by trying to navigate our way to the ferry and then find him and didn't appreciate his negativity. However our guide for the week more than made up for it. Kamir was EXCELLENT! He tended to our every need and made us feel safe and comfortable in a very unfamiliar place. He shared his vast knowledge with us and tried his best to teach us Berber and Arabic words. He was very patient and kind, I can't say enough good about him. He really helped us navigate the unknown and was very reassuring the whole time. Thank you Kamir!!! Our Fez city guide was also very good. I think his name was Kamir. My only complaint is that I would have preferred the city tour be more about the history and the sites rather than the heavy emphasis on shopping. Karim Boutellaka was our guide for the Atlas mountain hike and he was also EXELLENT! We learned so much from him about the forest and he even insisted on sharing his lunch with him. He is an amazing guide and very kind and patient man. Sara at Wanderlust was also very helpful. She jumped in when we were considering a moumtain bike trip but unfortunately illness prevented us from taking advantage of her planning. The dessert was incredible and quite an experience. I can't get over the night sky and the quiet of the dessert. The camel ride was fun and the camels were very sweet and mellow. There is so much beauty in Morocco and the people are so kind! It was a great experience.

Hotel Reviews
Meteorites Boulaajoul
Zaida

Nice accomodations. The staff a little too friendly for my personality.

Riad Madu Luxury Camp
Merzouga

Not up to my expectations. Air conditioning didn't work and water pressure was not good.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dar Alfourssane
Ouarzazate

Very nice and roomy riad. Staff friendly and accomodating. Rooms were clean.

Hotel & Ryad Art Place Marrakech
Marrakech

Very nice hotel with a good restaurant. Breakfast was included and wonderful! Staff especially in the breakfast restaurant were incredible, very helpful and kind. Room was spacious and clean. Water pressure was great! I finally was able to wash my long, thick hair!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Akchour Falls from Chefchaouen
Akchour Falls from Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen

I'm glad Kamir decided to hike with us because our guide spoke little to no English. It would have been much less pleasant if Kamir wasn't with us. Also, we were told the hike to God's Bridge was under water. We spoke to other tourists the next day and find out that was not the case. I would have liked to hike there too.

Tour Fes with a Private Guide
Tour Fes with a Private Guide
Fes

I would have preferred hearing more about the history and culture and less shopping.

Atlas Mountains Hike
Atlas Mountains Hike
Morocco

Hike in the forest with Kamir was wonderful! He was so kind and knowledgeble!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Camel Trek into a Luxury Sahara Camp
Camel Trek into a Luxury Sahara Camp
Morocco

I did not like the way the driver drove from the drop off point to where we started our camel ride. He drove like a madman over the sand dunes, very bumpy and unpleasant. The camel ride was great. Not the most comfortable mode of transportation by hey, it's a camel ride in the dessert! Our guide was very kind and helpful. My favorite part was the night sky after all the lights in the camp were turned off. Incredible! We say the milky way, shooting stars and a planet. In addition watching the sunrise and sunset was amazing!

Sahara to Ouarzazate via Todra Gorge
Sahara to Ouarzazate via Todra Gorge
Morocco

Todra Gorge is beautiful. Fun watching the rock climbers. I felt like I was back in Utah where I had just been on vacation.

Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Aït Benhaddou
Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Aït Benhaddou
Morocco

Scenery was spectular during the drip through the Tizi ,nTicka Pass and through the high Atlas Mountains. Enjoyed our stop at Ait Benhaddou.

Food Tour
Food Tour
Marrakesh

We never could have navigated our way through the many food tents so we more than happy to have Mohammed pave te way. Still have no idea why we started the tour with a donut but hey when in Morocco...

Tour Marrakech with a private guide
Tour Marrakech with a private guide
Marrakesh
Chefchaouen to Fes via Volubilis
Chefchaouen to Fes via Volubilis
Morocco

Very interest ruins. So glad we visited.

Local specialist: Megan Lower
Megan
Megan Lower
Local specialist in Massachusetts | Replied on Nov 15, 2024

Hi Sue,

Thank you for the review! We truly appreciate you taking the time to send us any feedback and thoughts. I'm sorry to hear you had a bad experience with your first driver; we'll make note of this for the future. And we'll also make note of the heavy emphasis on shopping during your tour of Fes. Kamal (our tour guide there) usually receives many requests to help travelers buy handicrafts, so this may be why the tour steered in that direction.

Thank you again!

Adventures in Morocco
Morocco | Oct 21 - Oct 30, 2024

Terry
Terry C.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Nov 07, 2024
Overall, the trip was pretty fantastic though there were definitely some glitches. Meeting our driver on day 1 was a bit sketchy since we weren't informed we had to take a bus to the terminal from the ferry, and once we made contact we found out this was not our driver for the whole trip. The first night was a bit scary, due partially from Brenda wanting to find individual Riads rather than your chosen ones. Accommodations were not as we had anticipated and it was well off the beaten path.... Read more

Overall, the trip was pretty fantastic though there were definitely some glitches. Meeting our driver on day 1 was a bit sketchy since we weren't informed we had to take a bus to the terminal from the ferry, and once we made contact we found out this was not our driver for the whole trip. The first night was a bit scary, due partially from Brenda wanting to find individual Riads rather than your chosen ones. Accommodations were not as we had anticipated and it was well off the beaten path. Fortunately all turned out ok, and the next morning we met Karim who was our security blanket for the rest of the trip. Karim was a great guide and driver. He was so knowledgeable about his country, geography, fauna and of course customs of the Moroccan people. His love of his country was quite evident in how he spoke. In riding with him he was very conscientious in maintaining safe speeds and did not take risks. We felt very fortunate to have been gifted him as our driver. I can't be as complementary regarding the vehicle we road in though. Though it was comfortable it had a bad exhaust system and we could continually smell exhaust for 7 days and many kilometers. It was a breathtaking tour watching the countryside with the ever changing landscape of the country. Some of the travel days were spent far too long on the road in the vehicle though.
All the guides we had were knowledge and friendly. Our favorite, another Karim, lead on us a 4 1/2 hr hike in Azrou who shared so much about trees, plants and wildlife, as well as his lunch! A very remarkable man and hiking guide!! The 2 guides in the cities, Kamal in Fez and Mohammad in Marrakech were good. Kamal had a superior knowledge of Fez Medina and we surely would have been lost without him. He led us to areas that many tourists rarely experience as in the a market that was below street level packed shoulder to shoulder with people and the 3 of us had to hold hands so as not to be separated. He also presented a restaurant for us that was superb for spread of Moroccan food. It became quite clear he was also the ambassador for the shop keepers and tourists. We felt greatly under pressure to buy many items even though I know the custom was to repay the craftsman by purchases. Mohammad in Marrakech was a friendly jolly man who we enjoyed though also acted as a go between the shopkeepers and tourists. He did an overly good job in introducing us to the foods available in Marrakech market. I appreciated his openness to sharing Muslim practices and was very accommodating in finding restaurants in line with our dietary preferences.
Overall the trip was fantastic, but there were many challenges throughout with the language barrier, getting accustomed to layout of Riads, design of Medinas and constant calculating money exchanges. The warmth and friendliness of the Moroccan people we came in contact with was very welcoming.

Activity Review
Camel Trek into a Luxury Sahara Camp
Camel Trek into a Luxury Sahara Camp
Morocco

this was an experience of a lifetime! Really enjoyed the camel ride and the seeing the beauty of the dunes and desert which was breathtaking.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Megan Lower
Megan
Megan Lower
Local specialist in Massachusetts | Replied on Nov 12, 2024

Hi Terry,

Thank you so much for your review. We're glad to hear you had a good trip overall despite the disconnect on our end regarding the bus to the ferry terminal. We love getting feedback on where we've done well and what we can improve on in the future.

I'll also make note of your feedback on the city guides (especially around feeling pressured to buy at the shops) and the glowing reviews for the two Karims!

Thank you again!

We were thrilled by the country and our guides
Morocco | Oct 20 - Oct 30, 2024

MArci
MArci H.
Canada | Reviewed on Nov 03, 2024
We were blown away by this trip, the country itself, but mostly by the amazing people you connected with: our driver/tour expert Nourredine, our guides Mustafa and Ishmael, our cooking class leader Bouchra and the reservation help provided by Sara via WhatsApp. They were all generous, kind, interested, well-educated experts who truly seemed to have our family's needs and interests at heart. So fantastic! Read more

We were blown away by this trip, the country itself, but mostly by the amazing people you connected with: our driver/tour expert Nourredine, our guides Mustafa and Ishmael, our cooking class leader Bouchra and the reservation help provided by Sara via WhatsApp. They were all generous, kind, interested, well-educated experts who truly seemed to have our family's needs and interests at heart. So fantastic!

Hotel Reviews
Dar Victoria
Fez

Incredible original atmosphere, great location, clean rooms and fantastically friendly staff.

Authenticity & Character
Was down a secret alley, in a non-touristy zone, but we all felt safe and welcome
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Plumbing in bathrooms was a bit rickety
Meteorites Boulaajoul
Zaida

This was a surreal and dramatic overnight stop on the way to the desert: we met other travellers en route to the Sahara, or some returning. And the staff (Omar!) was funny and warm and welcoming. We liked how quiet it was, the pool, and the feeling on being on the edge of a rugged landscape. Not fancy, but clean and quiet, like a motel. Our kids loved it too.

Authenticity & Character
Location
On the edge of some very rugged land, in view of the Atlas mtns
Staff
Omar and the other assistants were funny, jokey with our kids, and put us all at ease. Also very helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Great beds, huge king
Riad Madu Luxury Camp
Merzouga

An incredible oasis on the edge of the sand dunes. We should have stayed more than one night! Could have stayed 3.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Lyon-Mogador
Essaouira

A classy and quiet spot with a great rooftop view and gorgeous beachy design rooms,

Authenticity & Character
Wonderful classy beach vibe and decor, cusions, wood, excellent cotton sheets and blankets.
Location
Staff
Queit and frienfly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Nasreen
Marrakech

Unhelpful staff, chauvinistic toward women, and unavailable to help us when we needed them.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Condescending attitude, unhelpful with basic requests, no owner or Manager in sight
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bathroom fan wouldn't turn off, hot water tap fell off, room was tiny, pool on rooftop in disrepair
La Perle du Dadès
Boumalne

This had a lovely pool and a warm friendly feel from the owners and staff, but the rooms were cluttered and didn't feel 100% clean.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms had too many knick knacks in them, a challenge when unpacking.
Activity Reviews
Leather Slipper Workshop
Leather Slipper Workshop
Marrakesh

Was a great father-son workshop. However I'm glad my other kid (10) didn't attend as it was quite technical! But our teenager and his dad loved it!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Roman Ruins of Volubilis
The Roman Ruins of Volubilis
Morocco

Excellent history from our guide, however our kids got hot and tired halfway in, and there was no shade on site.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lunch with a local family
Lunch with a local family
Morocco

Really lovely to see and experience a real home, with a local person. It gave us a chance to ask questions, and our boys learned a lot.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Was good, tho would have been Amazing if our kids had met/eaten with kids, or the family was a similar make up to ours
Transport
Wine Tasting in Meknes
Wine Tasting in Meknes
Morocco

Was not really a favorite for us. We learned a bit, but will save wine tastings for other countries where it is a focal point.

Quality of Experience
Also, we didn't know in advance what was included, and they brought us LOTS of cheese and wine, which we didn't eat or drink or need.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Great guide at the winery, very knowledgable
Transport
Nourredinne was so great getting us on time to ALL our scheduled activities.
Sand Boarding
Sand Boarding
Morocco

Was just kind of tacked on to the ATV riding. Felt like an afterthought. No instruction, which is fine. We could have all used boards (4) rather than just having one. Would skip this next time

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Horseback Riding in the Sahara
Horseback Riding in the Sahara
Morocco

Loved this but we wanted to ride more. The guide seemed to think we only wanted photos of ourselves on the horses, when really we all wanted to gallop and go riding a bit more freely.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Erg Chebbi Dunes to Boumalne Dades
Erg Chebbi Dunes to Boumalne Dades
Morocco

We liked stopping at the rosewater factory, but noticed the prices were very high, aimed at tourists and cost more than at home!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Food Tour
Food Tour
Marrakesh

Loved this tour at night with Ishmael!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Ismael was generous, warm, shared his story, and connected well with our sons. We loved spending time with him and would do this again!
Transport
Tour Fes with a Private Guide
Tour Fes with a Private Guide
Fes

Excellent tour w Mustafa!

Quality of Experience
Food
I don't think we ate on the tour
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cooking Class
Cooking Class
Morocco

By far a highlight of our family trip!

Quality of Experience
Location and going to the souk first, to get the ingredients. Plus the dance party we had with the staff, on the spur of the moment!
Food
The tea ceremony, learning how to do the cooking without needing to prep the vegetables!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Bouchra was amazing, as were the rest of the people at the Riad
Transport
Camel Trek into a Luxury Sahara Camp
Camel Trek into a Luxury Sahara Camp
Morocco

So cool, the best

Quality of Experience
Food
n/a
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tour Marrakech with a private guide
Tour Marrakech with a private guide
Marrakesh

Awesome! Such a vibrant city

Quality of Experience
Was excellent however our Riad Nasreen was sub-par in terms of rooms and staff.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Nourredinne and Ishmael knew the city well, and were great at getting us around it! They shared their knowledge, and kept us safe from the motorbikes!
Transport
Kitesurfing Lesson in Essaouira
Kitesurfing Lesson in Essaouira
Essaouira

Was a great location, but we would have liked to know that kitesurfing lesson #1 doesn't include any time in the water actually kitesurfing. So that would have been helpful. However we had a fun day at the beach, and our kids surfed.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Super nice, professional crew at Kitesurfing company
Transport
Local specialist: Megan Lower
Megan
Megan Lower
Local specialist in Massachusetts | Replied on Nov 07, 2024

Hi Marci,

Thank you so much for your review and feedback on the accommodations and activities. We're sorry to see you had an unsatisfactory stay at Riad Nasreen. While we try our best to visit each site and thoroughly vet them, we cannot know the all aspects of the service and we rely on traveler feedback. Our team truly appreciates the thorough feedback you've given us!

Thank you again!

Wonderful Moroccan Trip
Morocco | Oct 19 - Oct 29, 2024

Nancy
Nancy K.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Oct 31, 2024
We had a wonderful trip in Morocco, specifically Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, and Marrakesh (as well as a desert camp experience we booked separately due to friends’ recommendations). Megan was easy to work with during the planning stage, and then she arranged for terrific drivers and guides throughout the trip, especially Nourdine who went above and beyond to help us navigate from Casa to Rabat to Fez and while in Fez, and Kamal who shared his depth of knowledge of language, Morocco, and Fez in... Read more

We had a wonderful trip in Morocco, specifically Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, and Marrakesh (as well as a desert camp experience we booked separately due to friends’ recommendations). Megan was easy to work with during the planning stage, and then she arranged for terrific drivers and guides throughout the trip, especially Nourdine who went above and beyond to help us navigate from Casa to Rabat to Fez and while in Fez, and Kamal who shared his depth of knowledge of language, Morocco, and Fez in an impactful manner. We would highly recommend working with KimKim/Megan and visiting the Hassan II mosque in Casa, spending at least one night in Rabat (which we wished we had as Megan suggested instead of in Casa), and spending two full days in Fez; it’s hard to imagine skipping Marrakesh while touring Morocco, but it was our least favorite city, because we found it very touristy and didn’t see anything unique or special after all the prior tours.

Local specialist: Megan Lower
Megan
Megan Lower
Local specialist in Massachusetts | Replied on Nov 07, 2024

Hi Nancy,

Thank you for your review! We're glad to hear you had a great time in Morocco! We'll let Nourdine and Kamal know about the positive feedback you've shared.

Thank you again!

Dessert tour and camel ride
Morocco | Oct 23 - Oct 25, 2024

Wally
Wally U.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on Oct 29, 2024
The safari tour was excellent. The guide was excellent and interacted well with the group. His knowledge and expertise was exceptional. Accommodations and food provided along the trip were exceptional as well. This was a memorable trip that may result in further trips to other places that kimkim has to offer Read more

The safari tour was excellent. The guide was excellent and interacted well with the group. His knowledge and expertise was exceptional. Accommodations and food provided along the trip were exceptional as well. This was a memorable trip that may result in further trips to other places that kimkim has to offer

Hotel Reviews
Tin Joseph
Ouarzazate

Food and accommodations were excellent. Owner was present and very personable with all.

Location
Staff
Interaction with us travelers
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Madu Luxury Camp
Merzouga

Very clean. Excellent food

Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Ouarzazate to Erg Chebbi
Ouarzazate to Erg Chebbi
Morocco

First time in Morocco. The trip was memorable. Met interested people along the various stops.

Quality of Experience
Guides knowledge
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Camel Trek into a Luxury Sahara Camp
Camel Trek into a Luxury Sahara Camp
Morocco

Excellent experience

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Experienced drivers
Local specialist: Megan Lower
Megan
Megan Lower
Local specialist in Massachusetts | Replied on Nov 07, 2024

Hi Wally,

Thank you so much for your review! We're glad to hear you had a good experience on your travels through Morocco.!

We had an incredible 3 days tour with “Hassan...
Morocco | Oct 23 - Oct 25, 2024

Karen
Karen M.
Canada | Reviewed on Oct 28, 2024

We had an incredible 3 days tour with “Hassan Amraoui” to the beautiful Sahara Desert, Hassan was very accommodating to everyone in our group..We highly recommend Hassan for your next tour to the sahara

Local specialist: Megan Lower
Megan
Megan Lower
Local specialist in Massachusetts | Replied on Nov 02, 2024

Hi Karen,
Glad to hear you had a great tour with Hassan! We always love sharing reviews with our drivers and tour guides; we'll be sure that Hassan hears you had a good time!

Cheers!