Night Sky & Caravan Trail - Annular Solar Eclipse US 2011 - The Adventure Company Astronomy Tours 2012/3

Night Sky & Caravan Trail New Trip Highlights Sahara Sky Observatory Morocco � 8 days Trip Code EXMO This privately owned hotel / observatory in the Draa Valley is far from light pollution and offers excellent dark skies with a full panoramic 360� view. From this southerly vantage you'll be able to explore deep sky objects near the centre of our galaxy that are so difficult to view from northern Europe. This is the perfect place for sunset and sunrise. Ait Benhaddou Leaving the desert behind, you visit the fortified village of Ait Benhaddou which is reminiscent of biblical times and perhaps take the option to visit the nearby film studios (additional charge) which have featured in films such as Gladiator and Jesus of Nazareth. From the vibrant bazaars of Marrakech this journey takes you over the Atlas Mountains to the remote fringes of the Sahara desert. The lush palm oases of the Draa Valley are an ideal setting for our astronomical activities during your stay at a remotely located hotel equipped with an impressive range of telescopes. Enjoy Ait Benhaddou, the best preserved Kasbah in Morocco. Insider's view Morocco is a country so diverse and intriging in every sense. There are everchanging deserts, lush oases, quaint villages built into the towering Atlas Mountains and bustling Marrakech with exotic smells and souks. A great short break with big impact. Steve Nagle - Travel Consultant Itinerary leisure upon arrival. Day 2 A morning city tour gives you an orientation around the historic quarter of Marrakech. Wind your way through the colourful souks and finish at the bustling Djemaa el-Fna before travelling to Ouarzazate. Day 3 Morning visit to Kasbah Taourirt, an important place to stop historically on the caravan route to Timbuktu. Drive to the incredible Draa Valley stopping en route at Kasbah Tamnougalt. Check into the Sahara Sky Kasbah with on site observatory. Night viewing with your astronomy expert. Day 4 Transfer to the start of your camel trek and to meet your camel guides. Begin your easy camel convoy to the stunning and impressive Tidri dunes. Overnight in Bedouin Marrakech M O RO CCO Day 1 Fly to Marrakech, transfer to the hotel with time at your tents after a night of stargazing with your astronomy guide. Day 5 Camel ride back to the Sahara Sky Observatory with time at leisure upon arrival. Night sky viewing with expert using a range of instruments and option to view sunset over the desert. Day 6 Depart for the fortified village Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou made famous by films such as Gladiator, stopping en route at Tamegroute. Spending the night at Ait Benhaddou enables you to see the kasbah in the early morning light. Day 7 Drive over the towering Atlas Mountains seeing villages tucked into the rock face before arriving at the bustling city of Marrakech. Free time upon arrival for last minute shopping or to relax with a mint tea. Day 8 Transfer back to the airport for your flight home. Essentials Graded easy, this trip takes you off the beaten track without involving stenuous activity. Walks are optional. Some long travel days can be tiring. Climate The weather tends to be warmer during the day but can be cold in the evening. A sleeping bag is required for the Bedouin camp or can be hired locally. Transport Minibus, 4WD, on foot, camel (or walk - 1.5 hours each way) Accommodation Hotels (6 nights), Bedouin desert camp (1 night) with basic facilities In Bedouin-style camp you will stay in large Bedouin-style tents (8 per tent). Expect to be without water for washing. Meals included 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 2 dinners Prices & Departures Visit our website or call our Travel Consultants for the latest prices. Alternatively scan your smart phone over this barcode. Departures With Without flights flights A�t Ben Haddou Ouarzazate Sahara Sky Observatory Overnight in Berber camp 21 Apr - 28 Apr 2012 4 May - 11 May 2013 �1,099 �1,179 �849 �879 Prices are per person and subject to change (see Booking Conditions p49) All elements in the itinerary are included unless otherwise stated. Single room option �68. Flights are indirect with Royal Air Maroc via Casablanca. 20 For more details, such as the Trip Notes, visit astronomytours.co.uk/exmo

Annular Solar Eclipse US 2011 contd… Night Sky & Caravan Trail