Âé¶¹´«Ã½

Tour

Total solar eclipse 2027: Introduction to Morocco

Next trip

8 days from 27 July 2027

Prices from

£3,799

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.
Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.
Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.
Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.
Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.
Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Booking information

27 July 2027 - 8 days for £3,799 per person

This one of four separate Morocco eclipse tours that are meeting up in Tangier to watch the eclipse. Click these links for the other three tours: Best of Morocco, Archaeology of Morocco and Astronomy in Morocco (sold out).


This incredible journey through Morocco combines cultural discovery with celestial spectacle, culminating in one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events, the total solar eclipse on Monday 2nd August 2027. Trace a path through the medieval alleys of Fes, the Atlantic elegance of Rabat and the vibrant souks of Marrakech, while venturing to the edge of the Sahara desert and into the dramatic landscapes of the Rif Mountains. 

Your adventure begins in Marrakech, where the city’s architectural beauty reveals centuries of observation, adaptation and scientific thinking woven into daily life. As you travel north through Rabat’s coastal monuments and Fes's imperial grandeur, each stop will immerse you in the fascinating history of Morocco.

In Tangier, standing at the threshold between continents, the focus shifts firmly to astronomy. Here, expert‑led talks with astronomer Dr Stuart Clark and Âé¶¹´«Ã½'s Abigail Beall, will deepen your understanding of eclipse mechanics, celestial motion and the broader cosmic context. These sessions prepare you not just to witness the eclipse, but to interpret it, a key Âé¶¹´«Ã½ hallmark.

Travelling to a private viewing site surrounded by open landscapes, you settle in for a rare four minutes and forty nine seconds of totality. As the Moon’s shadow races across the hills and daylight dissolves into an otherworldly twilight, the Sun’s corona emerges in breathtaking clarity. Guided by experts, you will experience this alignment as both spectacle and science, a shared moment of awe that connects Morocco’s rich history with the vast mechanics of the cosmos.

In partnership with Intrepid Travel.


Day 1: Arrival into Marrakech and meet the group

Welcome to Marrakech. After transferring to and checking in to the Hotel 2Ciels Boutique for two nights, you will meet your tour leader who will welcome you to the tour and cover the forthcoming itinerary. Afterwards they will introduce you to the rich flavours of Moroccan cuisine during a welcome meal, marking a perfect start to your stay.

Day 2: Explore Marrakech including the Medina and the Jardin Majorelle

Your day begins with a guided exploration of Marrakech, led by an expert local guide who will bring the city’s history, architecture and traditions to life. Your first stop is the legendary Djemaa el-Fna square, the vibrant heart of the medina, where storytellers, musicians and market vendors create an ever‑changing tapestry of sights and sounds.

From here, admire the elegant Koutoubia Mosque, its magnificent 12th‑century minaret rising above the old city. Although entry is reserved for worshippers, your guide will share the fascinating history and influence of this iconic landmark.

You then continue to the exquisite Ben Youssef Medersa, one of Morocco’s most celebrated examples of Islamic architecture. Wander through its serene courtyard and marvel at intricate zellige tilework, carved cedarwood and the artistry that once inspired generations of students.

In the afternoon, enjoy a tranquil change of pace at the enchanting Jardin Majorelle, a botanical haven of cobalt blues, exotic plants and cooling shade. Adjacent to the garden, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum offers an inspiring look into the designer’s life and his deep creative connection with Morocco.

Your day concludes with a visit to the Mohammed VI Museum of Water Civilization, an engaging and interactive museum that traces Morocco’s pioneering approaches to water management – from ancient techniques to modern sustainability innovations.

Day 3: Historic Rabat and the Kasbah of Udayas

After breakfast, leave Marrakech behind and enjoy a scenic journey north to Rabat, Morocco’s seaside capital. On arrival, begin your guided exploration at the striking Hassan Tower, the unfinished 12th‑century minaret that stands as a powerful reminder of the Almohad dynasty’s architectural ambition. Just opposite, visit the exquisite Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship honouring the late king and members of the royal family.

Continue to the Kasbah of the Udayas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched above the Atlantic Ocean and the Bou Regreg River. Wander through its blue‑and‑white lanes, pause at scenic viewpoints and enjoy the peaceful charm that contrasts beautifully with the energy of Morocco’s imperial cities.

In the afternoon, check into the Hotel The View Rabat and enjoy the evening at leisure – an opportunity to reflect on a day rich in history, coastal landscapes and the cultural heritage of Morocco’s capital.

Day 4: Explore Fes

Journey onwards to Fes, enjoying the scenic drive. On arrival, check in to your accommodation and take some time to rest and freshen up. Later, head out for a guided tour of Fes, one of Morocco’s most fascinating imperial cities. Walk through the UNESCO-listed medina’s winding alleys, passing traditional souks and artisan workshops. Visit the beautiful Foundouk el-Nejjarine, known for its exquisite architecture and historic role as a merchant inn, then continue to the elegant Medersa Attarine, admired for its detailed zellige tilework and cedarwood carvings.

Finish the visit at the iconic tanneries, where you’ll get a glimpse into one of the city’s oldest crafts and enjoy panoramic views over the dyeing vats. After the tour, return to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 5: Travel north and explore Tangier

Travel north today from Fes to the cosmopolitan port city of Tangier, a place long shaped by its unique position at the meeting point of Africa and Europe. On arrival, set out on a guided walk through the atmospheric Tangier medina, exploring its historic streets, lively markets and layered cultural influences.

Your visit continues at the Tangier Archaeology Museum, housed within the former Sultan’s Palace. Here, you’ll discover a rich collection of artefacts that trace the region’s ancient past – from Phoenician and Roman periods to early Islamic history – offering a deeper understanding of the civilisations that have shaped northern Morocco.

In the late afternoon, you will check into Hotel Idou Malabata, along with the other 3 Âé¶¹´«Ã½ Discovery Tours groups. That evening there will be a welcome dinner, where you will meet the other Âé¶¹´«Ã½ Discovery Tours experts Stuart and Abigail, who will immerse you in eclipses, astronomy and the cosmos via a series of talks over the next three days.

Day 6: Fascinating talks and pre-eclipse briefing

Today is dedicated to an enriching programme of morning and afternoon lectures, delivered in fully-equipped function rooms designed to support an engaging learning environment. The talk programme will be announced nearer the event but will include engaging talks on astronomy, the cosmos, the latest findings from Âé¶¹´«Ã½ plus the essential pre-eclipse briefing, which will be a detailed presentation to ensure you are well prepared for the day's event. This session will be around 1 hour, with plenty of time for questions at the end. Guests at our previous eclipse events have expressed how useful they found this briefing session, allowing them to make the most out of the eclipse experience. 

Scheduled coffee breaks throughout the day provide time to relax, reflect on the material and enjoy informal conversations with fellow participants. A midday lunch break offers another opportunity to recharge before the afternoon sessions continue.

In the evening, gather for a shared dining experience, a convivial setting in which to unwind, exchange ideas and discuss the insights gained over the course of the day.

Day 7: Eclipse day

After an early breakfast, set out on a scenic 45‑minute drive to our private eclipse‑viewing site in the Nador/Al Hoceima province of the Rif Mountains. The remote rural landscape offers wide, open vistas and an ideal position close to the centre line of 100% totality. On arrival, you will have ample time to choose your preferred viewing spot among the gently undulating hills that stretch eastward with no visual obstructions.

Our exclusive-use rural restaurant will serve as your base for the morning, with drinks available on arrival. Chairs, refreshments and certified eclipse-viewing glasses will be provided throughout the event. Our astronomy experts, Stuart and Abigail, will be on hand to guide the experience, explain key moments and answer any questions as the celestial choreography unfolds.

The eclipse begins with first contact shortly after 08:40, followed by totality just before 09:55, lasting an impressive 4 minutes and 49 seconds. At the moment of totality, the Sun will be positioned 38 degrees above the eastern horizon, offering superb viewing conditions.

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

After lunch served at the viewing site, return to Tangier for further talks from Stuart and Abigail, and a full eclipse debrief, including a comparison with observations from our parallel group in Luxor. As evening falls, the day concludes with a special farewell dinner, celebrating the extraordinary shared experience and the remarkable natural event you have witnessed together.

Day 8: Farewell to Tangier

After breakfast, it is time to say farewell to Tangier and conclude the journey. Group transfers will be provided from the hotel to Tangier Airport, ensuring a smooth and timely departure for all participants.

Booking information

Highlights

  • Marvel at the longest solar eclipse for the remainder of this century at a private viewing site in the Rif mountains
  • A full programme of talks in Tangier on astronomy, the cosmos and space exploration from Dr Stuart Clark and Abigail Beall with additional talks from Dr Eve MacDonald
  • A highly detailed and engaging pre-eclipse briefing
  • Immerse yourself in the culture and history of Morocco
  • Visiting Marrakech, Tangier, Fes and Rabat
  • Maximum group size - 30 while touring

Meet the expert

Tour leader

Throughout the tour there will be two dedicated English-speaking tour leaders. Plus you will also be joined by local guides in certain cities. Working with local guides creates jobs within communities and supports the local economy while giving you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture from the ones who know it best.


Eclipse event experts

The talks and eclipse experience during the Tangier part of this tour will be led by astronomer Dr Stuart Clark and Âé¶¹´«Ã½'s Abigail Beall. Plus there will be additional talks from field archaeologist Dr Eve MacDonald.

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Dr Stuart Clark

Stuart is an astronomy journalist who has devoted his career to presenting the complex world of astronomy to the general public. He holds a first class honours degree and a PhD in astrophysics, is a fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and a former vice chair of the Association of British Science Writers. In 2020, he was awarded a higher doctorate from the University of Hertfordshire for “services to astronomy and the public understanding of science”.

Stuart’s latest book is Beneath the Night: How the stars have shaped the history of humankind (faber), and in his capacity as cosmology consultant, he writes articles for Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Through his company Expanded Universe Ltd., he consults for the European Space Agency, the UK Atomic Energy Authority’s Fusion Cluster and International Asteroid Day. He has written for, among others: BBC Sky at Night, BBC Science Focus, The Times, The Guardian, The Observer, The Economist, The Times Higher Education Supplement, Astronomy Now, Sky and Telescope and Astronomy.

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Abigail Beall

Abigail is a writer and features editor for Âé¶¹´«Ã½, where she also writes a monthly astronomy column. In 2019, Abigail wrote and published The Art of Urban Astronomy and has also co-written three popular science books for Dorling Kindersley.

In addition, Abigail is a physics, technology and environment journalist whose work has appeared in Wired, BBC Science Focus and BBC Future. 

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Dr Eve MacDonald

Eve is a Canadian-British ancient historian and field archaeologist. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia she now lives in the UK. Her research and teaching focus on cultures both inside and outside of the traditional Greco-Roman worlds, at the fringes of the empire including on the archaeological legacy of 19th and 20th century colonial occupation in North Africa. She has taught courses on Carthaginian, Roman and Persian material culture and history at the University of Reading, University of Edinburgh and currently teaches at Cardiff University where she is Senior Lecturer in Ancient History. She has published extensively on the history and material culture of Carthage, North Africa and the Middle East. In August 2025, she published Carthage: A New History (2025, Ebury Press) and has written books on the Archaeological History of Carthage (Bloomsbury, 2024) and Hannibal (Yale, 2015). Dr Eve will be accompanying the entire tour.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • 7 nights’ accommodation
  • Entry to all sites and attractions with local guides as indicated in the itinerary
  • Catered private viewing site for the eclipse
  • Two English-speaking tour leaders throughout
  • Talks from accompanying Âé¶¹´«Ã½ Discovery Tours experts on days 6 and 7
  • All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 4 dinners
  • Eclipse viewing glasses
  • All transport by air-conditioned coach
  • 24-hour support
  • Arrival/departure group airport transfers for those on the suggested group flights

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

  • Travel insurance
  • International flights
  • Airport transfers
  • Visa/ETA (if applicable)
  • Single supplement £969

HOW TO GET THERE

The tour starts in Marrakech and finishes in Tangier. Both cities have international airports. Our partner Intrepid Travel will be happy to offer flight advice and book flights for those travelling from the UK. 

PACE AND PHYSICALITY

The eclipse viewing site is in the 'natural' gardens of a private traditional rural restaurant in the mountains. The daytime temperatures in northern Morocco in August can get up to around 29°C (84°F), so please make sure you wear a sun hat and suncream and bring lots of water. Drinks will be provided at a central area of the viewing site, but we suggest you have additional water with you throughout the eclipse day.

When exploring Moroccan sites, a basic level of fitness and mobility is required to enjoy these visits, as they will include walking on uneven surfaces. 

The itinerary will include some walking, occasionally on rough ground, in order to fully experience the historical sites. The walking will be at a gentle pace but will not be suitable for guests with mobility issues. Walking shoes with ankle support and sturdy soles are highly recommended.

While Morocco is a relatively liberal country, modesty still prevails. For a more comfortable experience, female guests should wear clothing that covers their shoulders, chest and legs. Headscarves are not expected or required of non-Muslim women in Morocco. 

There is a call to prayer five times a day from the early morning. It is meant to be loud and is a key part of the city soundscape. If you’re a light sleeper, earplugs may be useful.

On some of the days, you will be travelling long distances by comfortable air-conditioned coach.

Accommodation

Hotel 2Ciels Boutique, Marrakech

The hotel is centrally located in Marrakech’s Gueliz district and within easy reach of the legendary Djemaa el-Fna square and several major cultural attractions. Offering modern Art Deco design, an outdoor pool, air-conditioned rooms, rooftop terrace and on-site dining, the hotel provides a comfortable base for travellers looking to explore Marrakech’s vibrant shopping areas, gardens and historic sites.

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Hotel The Views, Rabat

This hotel offers a strikingly modern vantage point from which to explore Morocco’s political and cultural capital. Overlooking the Atlantic coast, the hotel’s clean architectural lines and expansive glass façades capture the shifting interplay of ocean light, a daily reminder of the coastal systems that have shaped Rabat for centuries. Inside, calm, contemporary spaces provide a welcome contrast to the city’s dynamic rhythm. Rooms are thoughtfully designed, many with sweeping sea views that underscore the hotel’s name. After a day investigating Rabat’s scientific landmarks, guests can relax in the spa, pool or lively dining spaces.

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Hotel Sahrai, Fes

This refined, 5‑star retreat sits on a hillside overlooking Fes and offers a contemporary vantage point on one of Morocco’s most historic cities. Its sleek architecture, alabaster accents and tranquil terraces provide a modern counterpoint to the medina’s intricate, centuries‑old urban maze. From many rooms, the city appears like a living system – its workshops, markets and rooftops forming an ever‑evolving pattern shaped by tradition and time. After days exploring Fes’s scientific and cultural layers, guests return to Sahrai’s calm gardens, infinity pool and thoughtful service, making it an inspiring base for discovery.

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Hotel Idou Malabata, Tangier

This 5‑star beachfront property in Tangier’s Zone Touristique Ghandouri offers sea‑view rooms, two outdoor pools, a spa and direct access to the beach. The hotel provides spacious, modern accommodations with air‑conditioning, private bathrooms and soundproofing, alongside on‑site dining featuring Moroccan and international cuisine. 

Âé¶¹´«Ã½. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Please note: If required for reasons beyond our control, we reserve the right to substitute alternative accommodation of equal or higher quality or adapt the itinerary if required.

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