After an acclaimed tour to Brazil, Argentina and the Atacama Desert in Chile in October, arrangements are now being finalised for ArchSoc’s 2026 international tour. After some years, we will again visit a country on the African continent, namely the fascinating Maghreb Kingdom of Morocco. This region has been inhabited since the Palaeolithic era, more than 300 000 years ago and is today a mix of Arab, Berber, African and European cultures.

May is springtime in Morocco and the climate is mild. At this time, departing Johannesburg on 30 April and returning on 16 May 2026, we will embark on a circular tour of the country to experience an adventurous mix of coastal, mountain and desert scenery; archaeology, history and geology; and cultures and peoples. A highlight will be a stay of three nights in the Sahara Desert, two of them at a luxurious tented camp, which we will reach by camel. With specialist guides and by 4x4s we will visit rock engraving sites in the Sahara, while a geological tour will include a palaeolithic fossil bed. In the Atlas Mountains we will explore ancient cedar forests and Berber villages, go on a guided hike and visit the Toubkal Mountain natural park around the highest peak in North Africa (4 167 m).

Further, we will spend time in Casablanca to see the Hassan II Mosque and the old Jewish quarter; Rabat to visit the Chellah necropolis  and the National Institute of Archaeology and Heritage; travel via the Roman site of Lixus and ancient Tetouan to Chefchaoun where a two night stay will allow us  to immerse ourselves in the city’s unique charm and blue-washed streets; explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis and Moulay Idris Zerhoun at Meknes on the way to Fes that will enchant us with its famous tanneries and pottery and mosaic cooperatives, as well as the El Bali medina; stop at the Rissani market; do star-gazing in the Sahara with an expert; see the Todra Valley and the Khettara water system; travel on the Road of 1 000 Kasbahs to overnight in the Skoura palm grove; inspect the fortified Amridil Kasbah and the desert citadel of Aït Benhaddou in Quarzazate; and cross the Tizi n Tizuku Pass on the way to Marrakech where we end the tour at its colourful markets, ornate palaces and famous gardens. Six UNESCO World Heritage sites will be seen.

Accommodation will in charming Moroccan riads or boutique hotels. The tour cost and the deposit required will be given in the tour programme that will be released by mid-January at the latest. Bookings for the tour will only be taken from then, but you may in the meantime wish reserve a space by emailing - fox@boers.org.za.

Reinoud Boers