Our story
Akal means land in the Berber language. We chose Akal Tours as our company’s name because it resonates and represents the experience we want our guests to have.
The name came to life with our unique outlook on what travel and hospitality should be. We are originally from the south of Morocco. Zakaria is from the breathtaking Todra Valley, where towering canyons and palm groves stretch toward the sky. Abdel is from the mountains, in the majestic Dades Valley, a place where winding roads and Berber villages blend into the red rock landscapes.
Our childhood and early experiences with Akal:
We grew up as children of nomadic families, learning the rhythms of nature, surrounded by the warmth of the Berber people, kindness, honesty, hospitality and the value of sharing a meal, a story, a smile and love.
Along the way, we have made connections with people from different corners of the globe, some were visiting the desert and others we met by chance. We are more than grateful to have made an incredible impact on them and their loved ones.
Besides, we have made everlasting partnerships with people we led on our group tours who have become our travel ambassadors in their home countries, for instance, Kazakhstan, Germany, USA, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand…
They all have immersed themselves in Morocco and have become friends with our families and our land.
It is deeply rooted in us that travel is not just exploring new places and landmarks, staying at hotels, and receiving the same random service you could find in your home country. It is about deeply connecting with the soul of the destination. It is a meaningful and immersive experience that echoes in your thoughts and memories forever. We will take exceptional care of you and your loved ones.
Akal Tours Philosophy
Akal Tours’ journey started in 2016. We have welcomed people from different corners of the globe and organized multiple tours, from fancy tours to specialized cultural ones. We have always tried to bring soul and heart to them. Coming from the Atlas Mountains and the desert of Morocco, we have become true ambassadors of the Kingdom of Light: Morocco.
Having this profound connection to our homeland has shaped the way we see travel. Therefore, every encounter we have had with our guests has touched their hearts in ways that stay with them forever.
Back in 2017, we were organizing tours all around Morocco. These included some standard luxury trips and some specialized cultural tours until the day we had a beautiful family visiting us from Sydney, Australia. They were two parents, a daughter, and a son. As they arrived, we warmly welcomed them in a riad in Marrakech. The moment they stepped inside, they immediately felt the welcoming energy and the essence of Morocco overwhelming them.
Towards the end of their trip, when they were near the desert with our family, dressed as Berbers, walking in the village, talking to children, and being offered lunch by villagers, the wife burst into tears, expressing how much love and happiness she felt throughout the journey with her family. She continued, saying that her family was going through hardship and that this trip healed them and took them to another level. That made us very happy.
After that, and coupled with what we mentioned above, we came up with a new travel philosophy that focuses more on authenticity, connection, sharing and love.
Our travel philosophy was recognized
At Akal Tours, our focus is on the experience, on turning your idea of travelling in an exotic country into a lasting memory that etches into your heart.
Why We Do This
We know that light will always overcome darkness. We want beautiful people to meet and share the beauty of life. We don’t just organize tours, we open doors, hearts and souls:
• To families in small villages.
• To Moroccan women in remote areas.
• To artisans and women cooperatives.
• To sunset dinners in the dunes of the Sahara Desert.
• To moments that leave an everlasting touch in the hearts and souls of our guests.
Our team:
At Akal Tours, we take pride in curating journeys and travel experiences that go beyond the ordinary and truly immerse you in the heart and soul of our beloved Morocco. Our team is professional and talented. Most of us speak more than three languages, including English, French, Spanish and German.