The latest addition to the Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Journeys programme designed by The Luminaire, these six-day journeys offer guests an intimate exploration of the country through two unique lenses: one of astronomy and astrology, and another of craft, conservation and contemporary mountain culture. Each experience is led by distinguished experts, from leading professors and astrologers to Mandarin Oriental’s Honey Sommelier (Khalid Samata, honey maker and founder of HIVE Restaurant at Selfridges.)
Celestial Morocco: Journey Through the Stars
While Morocco is celebrated for its peaks, dunes and vibrant medinas, this first journey in the capsule turns its gaze upward to reveal a rich heritage of celestial tradition that has long shaped life on the land, aligning with the rising global interest in astro tourism.
Beginning at Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech, the itinerary moves through the Ochre City with guided encounters from leading experts. Guests explore bustling souks and historic sites, savour slow-cooked Tangia, and meet local artisans preserving ancient crafts. At the Marrakech Observatory, travellers enjoy a private museum tour exploring the region’s geological treasures, followed by exclusive access to the country’s largest telescope – the monumental 600 mm T6 Valmeca – for a view of planets, nebulae and swirling galaxies.
The journey then winds south along ancient ksar and caravan routes to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou, before culminating in the Skoura Oasis. Here, beneath a starlit expanse at the desert’s edge, guests meet with an expert astrologer for a night of stargazing, natal charting and aperitifs, delving into the planetary alignments and celestial symbolism that have shaped Moroccan culture for centuries.
Craft, Conservation and Quietude in Morocco
This second enriching journey of deep cultural exchange explores the country’s character through its dramatic landscape and the diversity of its people, inspired by a growing desire for travel that engages meaningfully with local life.
Starting at Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech, guests immerse themselves in the city’s creative pulse, with an after-hours opening at Maison de la Photographie, visits to workshops where ancient crafts meet modern social enterprise, and a hands-on preparation of traditional Tangia.
The journey moves from the urban vitality to the restorative quiet at Kasbah Tamadot – Sir Richard Branson’s mountain retreat – with sweeping views of Mount Toubkal. Guests explore the Ourigane Valley and experience the rhythm of Amazigh life, joining in traditional ceremonies and sharing meals with local residents. At the Eve Branson Foundation, guests discover community-led craft preservation and sustainable stewardship, before the journey ends with a unique beekeeping experience and the tasting of local Atlas honey.
Editors’ Notes
Celestial Morocco: Journey Through the Stars
Six-day itinerary from £11,250 per person (based on two guests sharing)
Price includes 3 nights at Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech (with breakfast) and 2 nights at Dar Ahlam (full board), all activities mentioned, all transfers and airport fast track
Launched September 2026
Best time for travel is March–May and September–November
Itinerary can be personalised and adapted to each guest’s preferences and interests
Craft, Conservation and Quietude in Morocco
Six-day itinerary from £7,500 (based on two guests sharing)
Price includes 3 nights at Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech and 2 nights at Kasbah Tamadot, all activities mentioned, all transfers and airport fast track
Launched September 2026
Best time for travel is March–May and September–November
Itinerary can be personalised and adapted to each guest’s preferences and interests
For more details, please contact [email protected].
About The Luminaire
The Luminaire designs travel experiences inspired and led by expert insiders, blending exceptional access with immersive storytelling to inspire curiosity and foster a deeper understanding of the world. The Luminaire is led by travel entrepreneur and CEO, Adam Sebba. View the full edit of journeys at theluminaire.com
Mandarin Oriental Exclusive Journeys
Mandarin Oriental has partnered with luxury travel company, The Luminaire, to create transformational experiences for a growing number of properties around the world. Combining behind-the-scenes access with Mandarin Oriental’s world-renowned service, each journey is designed to spark curiosity, unlock new perspectives and offer a deeper understanding of the world.
