The North Morocco Sketching Retreat
April 04 – 12, 2026
Join us for a 9-day sketching adventure through North Morocco, beginning and ending in bustling Casablanca, then the coastal charm of Asilah, and spending most of our time in the blue-hued medina of Chefchaouen. Enjoy daily workshops, breathtaking settings, and the rich art and culture of this magical region.
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Day 01: Welcome to Casablanca
• 04-April
Your Moroccan adventure begins! Arrive in bustling Casablanca, where you’ll meet fellow artists at our 5 PM welcome gathering. We’ll kick things off with a safety briefing given by our guide, Mustapha from Roaming Camels who will introduce us to the adventure that awaits us.
(Included: Designated times airport transfers in Casablanca and welcome dinner)
Day 02: Asilah – The Travel Sketchers coastal retreat
• 05-April
Travel to the coastal town of Asilah. But first we visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Arrive to Asilah settle in and wander its charming medina, with colorful murals, narrow alleys, and seaside views. The first sketching workshop kicks off.
Day 03: Asilah
• 06-April
A full day to explore Asilah at your own pace, sketching from the ramparts, markets, and beaches. We begin the day with local tour guide and then inspired from all the stories and history we settle into a morning sketching workshop about composition and perspective techniques.
Day 05: Chefchaouen Arrival
• 07-April
Arrive in the iconic blue city of Chefchaouen. Settle into Casa Maravillosa and take your first walks through the medina to soak in the buzz and peaceful hum. Evening workshop to review techniques and plan sketches for the coming days.
Day 05: Chefchaouen & Waterfalls
• 08-April
Morning visit to the Akchour Waterfalls in the Rif Mountains. The hike to the falls offers a peaceful change of pace, with plenty of spots to sketch the cascading water and lush surroundings. Return to Asilah in the afternoon for a workshop focusing on composition and the interplay of natural light and color.
Optional: Private Transport + Short Walk to waterfall.
Day 06: Immersed in Chefchaouen
• 09-April
Full-day immersion in Chefchaouen’s photogenic corners. We’ll practice watercolor layering, shadows, and creating dynamic compositions. Evening group session for feedback and discussion.
Day 07: Chefchaouen and Local Village
• 10-April
Morning excursion to a nearby Rif mountain village or Ras El Maa waterfall area. Stroll the streets, observe local life, and settle into our morning workshop spot sketching traditional homes by flowing water and mountain scenery. Return to Chefchaouen in the afternoon for casual free time and looking out at the sunset spot.
(Included: Lunch)
Day 08: Journey back to Casablanca
• 11-April
On our way back from a morning outing, we’ll make a stop in Rabat, Morocco’s capital. Here, we have a unique opportunity to connect with locals in a collaborative sketching session. You’ll get to share ideas, see fresh perspectives, and sketch alongside Moroccan artists. Later, we return to Chefchaouen for a relaxed evening by the pool and reflection on the weeks experiences.
(Included: farewell dinner)
Day 10: Farewell Morocco
• 12-April
Transfer to the Casablanca airport for your journey home, carrying new skills, memories, and a collection of sketches from North Morocco.
Real Experiences from Past Trips
Watch TestimonialsFrom Instagram to Morocco – Let’s Do This!
“I’m 29, and I wanted to learn a new skill, it had been so long since I’d done anything like this. I took art classes and even went to art academy about eight years ago, but I stopped early. I felt the need to reconnect with it, so when I found you on Instagram, I thought, ‘Yes, let’s book this and go!’ It wasn’t just the sketching that felt new, the trip was to a country I’d never been to before. Everything, the surroundings, the culture, the people – felt like an exciting, fresh experience.”
More Than a Workshop – It Felt Like Family
“I can’t believe how much we accomplished in such a short time, it felt like a whole month packed into days. I’ve always loved art but never had the chance to learn seriously, as I pursued engineering instead. Alán’s question on why we sketch and why we don’t helped me realize how perfectionism and self-doubt were holding me back. This workshop pushed me to let go, sketch quickly, and embrace creativity without overthinking. Beyond the art, meeting people from such diverse backgrounds who shared the same passion was incredible. By the end, we felt like family, sharing techniques, journeys, and vulnerabilities. It was even better than I imagined, truly precious.”
Morocco Sketch Trip is all About Slowing Down, Creating, and Connecting
“In October, I joined Alán Ramiro’s urban sketching retreat with SeetheLines in Morocco, and it was an unforgettable experience. Traveling with a diverse group of creatives, all united by our love for art, was incredible. Sketching together in such a vibrant setting created instant bonds and allowed us to truly absorb the environment.
Urban sketching made me slow down and see Morocco in a whole new way. Instead of rushing from sight to sight, sketching made me focus on the details, the colors, textures, and movements around me.
Alán is an incredible teacher with a relaxed, open style that makes learning feel natural, whether you’re a beginner or experienced. His laid-back approach, embracing spontaneity, made the workshops fun and low-pressure.
I usually prefer sketching in private, but Alán encouraged us to sketch in busy spots, like the bustling squares and medinas of Marrakesh. At first, it was intimidating, but it turned into one of the best parts of the trip. People would stop, watch, and start conversations, making it an incredible way to connect.
This retreat was one of the most inspiring and fulfilling experiences I’ve had, blending art, culture, and real connections.”
Reviews from Travel Workshops
North Morocco Sketching Retreat Overview
April 04 – 12, 2026
$ 2,795 USD (Twin Shared)
$ 3,595 USD (Single En-suite)
Price Includes:
✅ 6 Workshops
✅ 8 nights in shared or single accommodation
✅ Airport transfers (Two designated times)
✅ Daily breakfast
✅ 2 dinners
✅ 1 Lunch
✅ Safe and comfortable air conditioned vehicle
✅ English speaking professional guide.
✅Local city guides as needed in Asilah, and Chefchaouen
✅Admission to all historic monuments
✅Bonus: 2 months of online workshops! (x8) classes on Zoom
✅Bonus: Best of 2024 Sketching Life Workshops. 12 video workshops!
It Does Not Include:
❌ Airfare, Travel Insurance, Lunch and Dinner unless otherwise indicated.
❌ Discretionary Gratuities (driver/guide, city guides, servers etc)
The total price for this experience with everything included: accommodation, food where noted, driver, tour guide, cultural activities, workshops, and bonuses:
$2,795 USD (Twin Shared)
$3,595 USD (Single En-suite)
To reserve your spot, a 25% deposit will be requested by invoice after you register.
Optional payment plans are available by request.
Previous Travel Workshops
Images from Morocco, New York, Mexico, and Brazil
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the trip cost?
The trip cost includes airport transfers at designated times in Casablanca, accommodations for 8 nights, meals as specified (dinners on Day 1 and 8; lunch on Day 4), all breakfasts, all workshops, guided tours, transportation between cities, and entry fees to all planned activities and sites.
What is not included in the trip cost?
Flights to and from Marrakech, travel insurance, meals not specified in the itinerary, personal expenses, optional activities (such as camel rides), and tips for guides and drivers.
What skill level is required for the sketching workshops?
The workshops are designed for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced artists. Althought if you are a complete beginner you will be required too take a series of online workshops to be prepared. Alán provides guidance tailored to your experience and helps you grow your sketching skills throughout the trip.
What materials should I bring for the workshops?
It is recommended to bring your preferred sketchbook, pencils, pens, erasers, and any other materials you like to work with. A portable watercolor set and a small stool or cushion for sketching outdoors can also be useful. A detailed material list will be provided.
How physically demanding are the activities?
The trip involves a moderate level of physical activity, including walking tours, a short hike in Imlil, and optional camel rides. Participants should be comfortable walking and standing for extended periods. If you have any specific concerns, please let us know in advance.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, we can accommodate most dietary restrictions with advance notice. Please inform us of any specific needs when you book your trip.
What type of accommodations can I expect?
You will stay in comfortable hotels in Marrakech and Essaouira, and a charming guest house in Imlil in double rooms. All accommodations are carefully selected for their quality and proximity to our sketching locations. If a private single bedroom is requested kindly let us know for the adjusted price.
How do I get to Casablanca?
Casablanca is accessible via several international airports. You will need to book your own flight to Casablanca Airport-known as Mohammed V International Airport (CMN). We will provide airport transfers at two designated times upon arrival and departure. If you are outside those times, a transfer can be provided for $35.
What is the group size for the trip?
To ensure a personalized experience and plenty of one-on-one instruction, our group size is limited to a small, intimate number of participants. Minimum 8, maximum 15 participants.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the workshops and tours, with lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for outdoor activities. For the hike in Imlil, sturdy walking shoes are recommended.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes, travel insurance is required for all participants. This ensures you are covered for any unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.
How do I book my spot on the trip?
To book your spot a deposit is required to secure your place, with the balance due 90 days before departure.
What is the cancellation policy?
90 days out, cancelations are non-refundable. Within the grace period of collecting the minimum number of participants, your registration fee is fully refundable, minus the transaction fee if opted for credit card or paypal.
Can I extend my stay in Morocco?
Yes, you are welcome to extend your stay before or after the trip. Please let us know your plans, and we can assist with additional accommodations and recommendations for things to do.
Who can I contact for more information?
If you have any further questions, please contact us via email at alan@seethelines.com or hello@roamingcamelsmorocco.com. We’re here to help and look forward to welcoming you on this sketching adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Host and Workshop Teacher
Alán Ramiro Manning | @seethelines
Alán Ramiro is on a passionate mission to create, connect, and inspire through sketching and teaching on-location around the world. A graduate of Architecture in Los Angeles, California, with 10 years of experience in the field, Alán blends his creative and technical expertise in the arts, design, and video storytelling.
Through his Sketching Life Workshops, Alán has inspired over 500 students this year alone with his weekly online classes, teaching the art of urban sketching with clarity and passion. Beyond the digital realm, he leads transformative sketching retreats in stunning destinations, with Morocco standing out as a key location for immersive experiences that spark creativity and personal growth.
From Rome to Porto, Barcelona to Andalusia, and now Morocco, Alán’s workshops bring students face-to-face with the beauty of the world while fostering a movement to live in the moment, create fearlessly, and take bold action on their dreams. Boots on the ground, he’s building a global community that embraces art as a tool for connection and transformation.
Our Local Guide
Meet Mustapha
PROFESSIONAL GUIDE @ Roaming Camels
Mustapha was raised in the southeast of Morocco in the Roses Valley, in the province of Ouarzazate, from an Amazigh (Berber) family. His grandparents were nomads and his parents have passed along the greatest of the Amazigh culture, traditions and values to their eldest son.
At university Mustapha studied English literature and linguistics. His research was in Amazigh (Berber) culture. After graduating from university he completed a full year of training in guide school in the High Atlas Mountains.
Before starting his own company, Mustapha worked with many large and acclaimed tour companies . He has travelled internationally as well, spending time in the Netherlands, France, Britain, Indonesia, Scotland and Australia and Canada. Mustapha is fluent in English, French, Arabic, and Berber.
Learn more about Mustapha at roamingcamelsmorocco.com
More Experiences from 2024 Trips
Watch TestimonialsFive star review online, five thousand in my heart!
Sketching around Morocco with Alán and the crew was beyond amazing, the trip effortlessly exceeded every expectation I had and then some. Not only were the workshops clear, thoughtful, and informative but without fail they were also full of laughter, encouragement, and validation. Alán is a wonderful instructor and a truly fantastic travel companion and I am so thankful for the experiences I had with our little caravan. I felt seen, safe, and so well cared for throughout every second of the trip and I cannot WAIT for the next opportunity to sketch alongside Alán and a passionate group of strangers once again!
Let’s go sketch!
Haven’t sketched in over 10 years and started again during the group trip to Morocco. I tend to box myself in and want to get every detail and make things perfect. However, that took the fun out of everything and kept me from sketching. Alan’s step by step teaching style, patience, and clear direction gave the group amo to tackle different scenes. It was an absolute blast learning watercolor and sketching techniques that loosened me up and gave me the freedom to be creative and let the drawings come to life. Not only was this trip a blast sketching wise, but the support and friendships that were formed in the group will last a lifetime. If you’re hesitant to join a group trip, are afraid of letting the watercolor flow, or if perfectionism is keeping you from creating – stop what you’re doing right now and go sign up for one of Alan’s sketching workshops or group trips! What are you waiting for?! You won’t regret it. I’m looking forward to the next trip I can join. Yallah, yallah!!