It may only be across a narrow strait from Spain, but Morocco feels a whole world away. Its labyrinthed medieval cities survive, intact, unchanged and quite as lively as ever. Berber, Arabic and Moorish cultures entwine, tempting technicolor markets assault the senses, luxury sits comfortably next to rustic. There is no place on earth quite like this.

Our eight-day photography holiday of Morocco begins in Essaouira, a laconic fishing settlement whose citadel ramparts front the Atlantic, then finish in Marrakech, a bustling, chaotic world of souks, snake charmers and storytellers. Together, these two settings embody exotic Morocco - an ideal combination for unwinding, kicking back and being inspired.

Mixing creative tuition, live demonstrations, challenging assignments and, of course, fine cuisine and exquisite riads, this stunning journey is a must for the inquisitive traveller.

ITINERARY

DAY ONE

After arrival in Marrakech, we venture overland towards the seaside town of Essaouira, driving past desert oases and the Anti-Atlas mountain range. After a brief tour of the city, our French-designed, chic medina retreat welcomes you to your stylish accommodation, gourmet tagine supper and Moroccan vino.

DAY TWO/THREE

After a hearty Moroccan breakfast, we dip into the basics of photography, outlining in a clear, non-techy way each individual function of your SLR. We mix our sessions with challenging practicals around the stunning city of Essaouira - with its ancient medina, towering mosques, stunning port and medieval ramparts - enabling you to use your new found skills to best effect.

DAY FOUR/FIVE

Now we have mastered the basic use of our camera, it is time to dip our feet into more advanced, professional camera techniques. Through investigation of composition, a review of past masters, plus use of correct lenses, you will begin to see a major change in your photography - and start to capture images you never thought you could take. Then, up early for our journey to Marrakech, we head to our second location for this photography course and check-in to our hip colonial-style riad, then take in the sights of the Djmaa-el-Fna, Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs before shooting a commissioned assignment, reviewed later by the group after our gourmet supper atop the roofs of the medina.

DAY SIX/SEVEN/EIGHT

Using all the creative and technical tools we've worked on, its time to start on your final body of work, resulting in a final dinner and presentation of your stunning work, on the riad rooftop overlooking Koutoubia. Our final day is spent with your very own personal shopper, who'll guide you through the souk to pick up some bargains, rounding off our exhilarating photography tour across North Africa.