From Mountains to Medina
Welcome to our next installment from our ‘Traveller Tales’ series, getting the story behind the adventures of RP Owners.
This time we have an epic 6,000 kilometer Moroccan expedition from Fons.
Where did you go on your trip?
We embarked on a 6000 kilometer journey in Morocco, exploring the High Atlas Mountains, the vast dunes of the Sahara, the Atlantic coastline and vibrant cities like Marrakech, Fes and Essaouira. The diversity of Morocco, geographically and culturally, was stunning.
How long were you away for?
Our adventure lasted 50 days, with 35 of those spent wild camping off the beaten path.
What was the inspiration behind going where you did?
Morocco had long been on our list for its unique blend of wilderness, ancient culture and varied landscapes. With our fully equipped Rebellion 2, affectionately named Hyatt, we were finally ready to test both the vehicle and ourselves in the kind of terrain that demands resilience, yet rewards curiosity.
Although we love the freedom of independent travel, for this trip we chose to join a loosely organised group. It wasn’t a typical group tour, everyone travelled in their own vehicle and set their own pace, but it provided a sense of safety and shared knowledge, especially in more remote or challenging areas. It also meant we didn’t have to reinvent the wheel when it came to routes, local regulations or logistics. It struck the perfect balance between independence and support.
Were there any challenges along the way?
Navigating the desert sands gave us some of our most exhilarating, and humbling, moments. Even with a powerful 4x4, the dunes had their own rules. We learned to respect the terrain, remain calm and trust the vehicle’s capabilities. Another minor challenge was the air conditioning struggling in 35°C heat, but that only made the cool oasis stops more satisfying. Major lesson, keep on the gas when in loose sand. Do not stop. And also your GPS makes mistakes. We sometimes ended up on very small unpaved roads which we managed but not with ease. A normal motorhome would have been stuck many times.
If someone asked why they should follow in your footsteps, what would you tell them?
Because Morocco is one of those rare places where every day feels like you’ve stepped into a different world. You’ll experience the thrill of wild landscapes, the serenity of desert nights, the warmth of local hospitality and you’ll return richer in stories, spirit and perspective.
Three favourite locations along the way?
The dunes of Erg Chebbi: surreal beauty and unforgettable silence.
The Dades Gorges: dramatic rock formations and winding roads.
Essaouira: a vibrant coastal village perfect for unwinding after days in the desert and enjoying some kitesurfing.
Any hidden gems you didn’t expect to find?
A small Berber village tucked away in the Anti-Atlas mountains welcomed us unexpectedly. Sharing mint tea with the locals under a starlit sky was one of the most heartwarming experiences of the trip. Completely unplanned and unforgettable.
If you could go back to one place, where would it be and why?
The Sahara. There’s something otherworldly about being surrounded by nothing but sand and sky. The stillness, the scale and the clarity of night in the desert made it a spiritual experience.
What advice would you give to someone planning a similar trip?
Trust your vehicle, but prepare it well. Bring recovery tools for sand, know how to reduce tire pressure and plan water and fuel carefully. Have spare parts with you, out there away from the big cities you do not want to be serviced by a local workshop. Embrace flexibility, some of the best memories happen when you least expect them.
What did you learn from your journey that you’ll carry into future travels?
That freedom lies in simplicity. Wild camping taught us how little we truly need, and how much more connected we feel when we slow down, stay curious, and let nature lead the way.