Separated by the vast Sahara Desert, it's a mistake to assume that North and Sub-Saharan Africa share anything but a name. The product of ancient empires, close European neighbors, and indigenous cultures, Morocco and Egypt are hard to beat with their stunning landscapes, intoxicating cities, and wondrous historical treasures.
Morocco
What We Love
- With its markets, colors, smells, and ancient labyrinth streets, it is as close to time travel as one can get.
- Morocco has wonderfully diverse landscapes, from the mighty Atlas Mountains–covered with pink Persian roses in the spring–to relaxed seaside villages and the Sahara Desert.
- Whether one is buying bread from the bazaar or dining at the poshest restaurant in Marrakesh, Morocco is a "foodie's" paradise.
- Fantastic shopping abounds.
Things To See & Do
- Hike the Atlas Mountains and then have tea at Sir Richard Branson's famous Casbah Tamadot. Even better, stay there for the weekend.
- Find beautiful–and authentic–Berber rugs in Marrakech.
- Watch the precision with which tiles and pottery are hand painted, as they have been for centuries in the ancient city of Fez.
- Charter a plane out to a luxury tented camp in the Sahara.
- Wander the gardens of legendary fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent's Moroccan retreat.
- Explore the ruins of Volubilis, the furthest outpost of the Roman Empire.
- See another side of Morocco in the coastal town of Essaouira.
Combine With
Spain is just over the Gibraltar Straight. There are easy flights from Tangier, Casablanca and Marrakech. One will see the architecture of Southern Spain in a whole new light after a visit to Morocco.
Egypt
Images courtesy A&K
What We Love
- Attempting to wrap our heads around 6,000 years of history
- Comfort cruising down the Nile in a “Sun Boat.” The handsomely appointed river boats provide a serene, peaceful way to see the country.
Things To See & Do
- Travel only with the best Egyptologists who are essential to the appreciation and understanding of Egypt's archaeological treasures.
- Indulge in some photo ops at the famous Pyramids of Giza.
- Camp out in the majestic White Desert.
- Soak up some sun on Alexandria's beautiful beaches after touring some interesting ruins like the Catacombs of El-Shogafa, a Roman Amphitheater and Pompeii's Pillar.
- Sail down the Nile on a Felucca, the traditional Egyptian sail boat.
- See how royalty prepared for the afterlife on a private tour in the Valley of the Kings and Queens.
- Visit St. Catherine's fortress monastery, situated on the Sinai Peninsula at an altitude of 5,000 feet. It is a must.
