# The Art of Aliveness Retreat with Artist Flora Bowley in Morocco This spirit-lifting retreat with Flora Bowley, set in the heart of Morocco, is a reunion with unbridled freedom, the wisdom of your soul, and authentic expression. Across eight nourishing days, you’ll be gently guided through freedom-based art practices, flow writing, breathwork, and mindful movement. These experiences, woven together with meaningful community connection, will help clear space for inspiration and spark a renewed sense of vitality in your life. You'll stay at an enchanting traditional eco-lodge surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, with hosts and staff renowned for their warmth and attentiveness. Delight in chef-prepared meals, wine with dinner, and spirited conversation shared in good company. Relax with a dip in the swimming pool, a walk through the sprawling gardens, and a cup of tea on the breezy terraces. Discover the culture of southern Morocco through two enriching trips: a half-day visit to the bustling Souk El Had in Agadir, complete with a cable car panorama of the coast and a stop at an old fortress, and a full-day journey to the imperial city of Taroudant and the Claudio Bravo Palace. Beyond the studio, you'll experience authentic Berber hospitality through a traditional Moroccan tea ceremony, a hands-on argan oil demonstration with local women, and a relaxing hammam steam bath. This retreat welcomes all levels of artistic experience. Come with an open heart and leave feeling inspired, reconnected, and joyfully alive! ## Details - **Dates:** October 26 - November 2, 2027 - **Location:** Agadir, Morocco - **Starting Price:** $4,700 - **Currency:** USD - **Status:** open - **Group Size:** Max. 17 students - **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting) ## Overview **What's included** 1. Art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Flora Bowley 2. 7 nights of accommodation at a traditional eco-lodge 3. Exclusive use of the entire property including living quarters, all common areas, workshop spaces, swimming pool, SPA, terraces, and gardens 4. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef 5. All diets catered for, including vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free 6. Delicious wine and non-alcoholic beverages during dinner service every day 7. Delightful welcome and farewell dinners 8. Homemade snacks, complimentary water, coffee, organic herbal tea, and fresh juices available throughout the day 9. Half-day trip to Souk El Had of Agadir 10. Scenic cable car panorama tour of the coast during your trip to Souk El Had 11. Visit to the Kasbah of Agadir Oufella fortress during your trip to Souk El Had 12. Full-day trip to the imperial city of Taroudant and Palais Claudio Bravo with sketching opportunities, entrance tickets, guide and chaperone included 13. Farewell dinner with live Berber folk band 14. Argan oil demonstration led by local Berber women 15. Traditional Moroccan Tea Ceremony 16. Complimentary relaxing Moroccan steam bath 'hammam' 17. Private transportation for all planned trips and activities 18. English-speaking guides and chaperones for all planned trips and activities 19. Round-trip airport transfers from/to Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) at prearranged times 20. All local tourist taxes and fees 21. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat 22. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff 23. Access to a private Facebook group with artist Flora Bowley and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat takes place **Not included** - Airfare - Travel insurance - Art materials — you will receive a detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Flora Bowley five months before the retreat takes place - Tips — tipping is customary in Morocco - Other expenses guests might incur on their own ## Program ### The Art of Aliveness Retreat Join Flora Bowley in the scenic foothills of the Atlas Mountains for a powerful and unforgettable creative retreat designed to reconnect you with your inner artist and a community of like-minded souls. Through intuitive art-making, gentle movement, free writing, breathwork, guided visualizations, and cultural exploration, you'll be invited to follow your body’s wisdom, ground into the present, and reignite your creative energy. If you’re ready to reconnect with what makes you feel truly alive, this retreat offers a supportive space to explore meaningful creative practices, build authentic connections, and remember your natural capacity to shape a life you truly love! Flora Bowley is an internationally acclaimed painter, author of four books, and visionary guide known for her innovative and embodied approach to intuitive art-making and her signature blend of life-art practices. Flora’s work is rooted in the belief that creativity belongs to *all* people and that creative expression opens channels for more aliveness and connected ways of being in our ever-changing world. **Note:** It is recommended that participants read The Art of Aliveness by Flora Bowley in preparation for this retreat. **During your creative workshops with Flora, you will:** - Access creative courage and new levels of freedom - Rekindle creative inspiration, both in art and life - Invite honesty, raw expression, and emotional release into your life and art - Create freedom-focused art in innovative new ways - Connect to your intuition and unearth inner wisdom - Let go of perfectionism and overthinking - Find unique inspiration in your inner and outer world - Create depth and surprise through layering - Find the joy and release in allowing change and following your intuition - Use vocalization to move energy and energize your art-making - Experience true presence and awe - Nurture self-acceptance with kindness - Understand how contrast invigorates both art and life - Connect with your body through gentle movement, breathwork, and mindfulness - Create meaningful connections with kindred creative spirits - Experience a trip of a lifetime - Remember that YOU are the artist of your life Your venue for this retreat, a traditional fortress, stands as a testament to eco-luxury. As an eco-lodge, it harmonizes with its surroundings, providing a tranquil space to learn and create. Its natural environment features verdant valleys, traditional villages, and a stunning coastline, offering an ever-present inspiration for your artwork. Moreover, you'll experience the full extent of local Berber hospitality through several special activities. You'll take part in a traditional tea ceremony, rejuvenate with a complimentary hammam bath, and participate in an argan oil demonstration with the local Berber women. ### Day 1: Arrival & tea ceremony Land at Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) and hop on the 1:00 PM transfer to the venue, winding through the Moroccan countryside as the Atlas Mountains come into view. Once there, unpack and unwind in your room before meeting your instructor, Flora Bowley. Join a welcome tour of your home for the week, wandering the airy terraces, lush gardens dotted with argan and olive trees, the sparkling salt-water pool, and the inviting common spaces. Settle into the warm atmosphere of the eco-lodge as you explore the grounds together with your fellow artists. As the afternoon unfolds, gather for one of the retreat's most cherished cultural moments: a traditional Moroccan tea ceremony with the venue hosts. This beloved ritual sits at the very heart of Moroccan hospitality. Engage all your senses as your hosts guide you through the ceremony's graceful preparation and pouring traditions. As dusk settles over the Atlas foothills, enjoy a delectable three-course welcome dinner prepared by your private chef and paired with wine. ### Day 2: Art workshop at the venue *\*Each day, Flora will encourage you to carve out at least 15 minutes for a personal morning practice of drawing and writing… a powerful practice you can take home with you!* Start your morning with a nourishing breakfast, then prepare for a day of grounding, connection, and creative freedom. During your first gathering, you’ll experience Flora’s soulful welcome ceremony, where you'll make meaningful connections, set intentions for the week ahead, and learn more about Flora’s philosophy and approach. You’ll connect to your body with gentle movement and arrive more fully into your surroundings through an “awe walk.” End the morning with a playful group collaboration. Take a well-deserved lunch break, followed by an afternoon of free-flowing color and mixed-media art explorations. Guided by Flora’s innovative prompts, you’ll try out expressive mark-making techniques and other playful ways to let go. In an intimate and supportive environment, there is no pressure to “do it right.” Simply show up and explore in a judgment-free zone. The day concludes with a delicious chef-prepared dinner, giving you the chance to reflect on your progress and look forward to what’s ahead. ### Day 3: Trip to Souk El Had in Agadir Refuel with a tasty breakfast and, over a relaxed check-in, find out more about the plans for the day. You'll head into the heart of Agadir's historic Medina for a half-day trip to the buzzing Souk El Had. With your guide, you'll wander through stalls piled with spices, leather goods, woven textiles, and fresh produce, letting the sounds and scents move through you as inspiration for the days ahead. From there, a scenic cable car carries you above the rooftops for a sweeping panorama of the Agadir coastline before arriving at the Kasbah of Agadir Oufella fortress, perched high above the city with extraordinary views stretching all the way out to the Atlantic. You'll return to the venue in time for lunch, then head back to the studio for an intuitive afternoon session. Let the sensations of the morning, the color, the movement, the energy of the souk, translate onto the page. Flora will guide you in exploring how emotion and memory can shape mark and color, without needing to resolve into anything more than what feels true. Spend the rest of the evening lounging by the pool and chatting with your fellow artists, then treat yourself to a delicious dinner prepared by the private chef, paired with a glass of wine. ### Day 4: Art workshop at the venue Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast and a cozy coffee chat, setting the stage for genuine connection before you and your fellow artists gather in the studio with Flora. Today's journey launches with an uplifting session, blending gentle movement, transformational breathwork, open-hearted sharing, and dynamic drawing practices. Turn inward, gently awaken your senses, and ignite your creative spark, all in a space designed for presence and possibility. At midday, savor a delicious meal and take a moment to recharge, then dive into an electrifying afternoon filled with eyes-closed painting, soul-stirring music, and expressive movement. Let your emotions dance through color, gesture, and rhythm, infusing your creative process with bold honesty and vibrant energy. Play, explore, and bring your inner world vividly to life! Later in the afternoon, take the time you need to unwind, whether that means a walk through the argan groves, a quiet moment by the pool, or simply staying with your painting if inspiration is still moving through you. The day closes with a relaxed, chef-prepared dinner paired with wine. ### Day 5: Trip to Taroudant & visit to Claudio Bravo Palace After breakfast, gather for a full-day trip to Taroudant, often called "little Marrakesh," an imperial city about an hour from the venue, marked by towering ochre ramparts, centuries-old souks, and artisan quarters bathed in warm southern-Moroccan light. Enter through its ancient gates into the Medina, where tall city walls and detailed archways invite exploration. Use this time to sketch what inspires you, capture textures and patterns, or take reference photos for later. The lively atmosphere, filled with artisans crafting leather and metal goods, offers plenty of inspiration. Visit a busy local market and explore stalls full of spices, fruits, and handwoven fabrics, drawing ideas from the mix of colors and aromas. From Taroudant, you'll continue to the Claudio Bravo Palace, the former home of the Chilean hyperrealist painter Claudio Bravo, who designed and built the sprawling estate himself at the foot of the Atlas Mountains. Wander through courtyards and gardens where his own paintings hang alongside works by friends and fellow artists, a collection shaped by a lifetime of wide-ranging curiosity. Enjoy a relaxed lunch on the palace grounds and take in the spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. Spend the afternoon meandering through hidden paths, exotic plants, and beautiful historic buildings. As the day ends, return to the venue for some free time to rest and refresh. The evening features a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the private chef, paired with a glass of wine. ### Day 6: Art workshop at the venue & argan oil demonstration Following a refreshing breakfast, take some time to draw and write in your journal, then join your fellow artists for a focused painting session. Flora will continue to offer demonstrations, new techniques, guided movement, and one-on-one support as you honor your intuitive impulses and experiment with rich layering techniques using collage paper, pens, and oil pastels. Later on, enjoy a wonderful display of Moroccan customs and traditions. Joined by a group of local Berber artisans, you'll witness an argan oil demonstration. Learn more about the history of this noble oil, how the local Berber women have harvested it for centuries, and how it was used in beauty rituals. During the demonstration, take this opportunity to paint and sketch, with the Berber women as your subjects. Take a break for lunch, then return to your painting with fresh energy. You’ll explore expressive mark-making, mixing color, working with contrast, and incorporating translucent layers. Experience the magic of changing directions and stepping out of your comfort zone, and watch as your work takes on unexpected twists and turns. At this point in the retreat, you’ll be filled to the brim with new techniques and inspiration, and you probably won’t want to stop painting! Enjoy your free time in the late afternoon, then wind down with a chef-made dinner and a glass of wine. ### Day 7: Art workshop at the venue Your final day of classes begins with a delicious breakfast and a relaxed check-in with Flora and the hosts. Dive right back into a final day of creative play, beginning with relaxed group exercises. Today is about freeing up even more, letting go of any lingering inner critic, and doing it *your* way. You’ll have a variety of pieces in progress at this point and so many possibilities! You’ll also have the opportunity to craft a personal Art of Aliveness affirmation deck as a tangible keepsake full of your takeaways and memories. Following lunch, you’ll experience a beautiful afternoon of connection and completion. This retreat will open new doors and show you what’s possible in your art and in your life, so it’s important to take time to integrate the experience. Flora will offer guidance on integration practices and how to keep your creative spark burning back home. She will also guide you on a spirited visualization to imagine what your most creatively alive life might look like. There will be time to honor the artwork, give appreciation, and celebrate a courageous week of creating and connecting. As the retreat comes to a close, gather with your fellow artists for a farewell dinner. Raise your glass to a week of creative discoveries and new friendships, all while a live Berber folk band fills the evening with music and celebration. ### Day 8: Departure Enjoy breakfast together, exchange any last contacts, and catch the 10:00 AM transfer to Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK), arriving at the airport at around 1:30 PM. ## Instructors - [Flora Bowley](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/flora-bowley) — Artist, mentor and pioneer ## Accommodation ### Traditional Eco-Lodge Set against breathtaking landscapes, your venue, a traditional fortress, effortlessly marries authentic Berber elegance with modern comfort. Crafted in harmony with the local Berber community, this eco-lodge is a beacon of sustainable excellence. Nestled among flourishing argan, olive, and fruit trees, each room showcases panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains and Tighanimine Elbaz village below. Rejuvenate with features like a salt-water pool, a holistic SPA with a complimentary hammam treatment, and expansive terraces with awe-inspiring vistas. Seek inspiration as you wander gardens dotted with argan trees and palms. Your classes will take place in a spacious 1,180 ft² indoor studio or in breezy outdoor spaces, including the scenic rooftop terrace. Please note that navigating the venue will involve climbing lots of stairs; the venue is not suited to participants with limited mobility. The venue stands as a testament to eco-conscious hospitality, harmonizing comfort with genuine Berber heritage in a lush, sustainable setting. From its eco-friendly construction by expert local craftsmen, specialists in rammed earth, tadelakt, stone, and wood, to the conservation-oriented philosophy of the eco-lodge, everything has been thought through to promote Moroccan values of humanity, traditions, and heritage. ### Shared standard ensuite room One standard ensuite room is available for shared occupancy. The room and its ensuite bathroom will be shared between two same-gender participants. Located on the second floor, the shared standard ensuite room will be fitted with twin beds and features an ensuite shower bathroom. The room is decorated in a traditional Berber style, with woven rugs and earthy, warm colors. ### Shared superior ensuite room Three superior ensuite rooms are available for shared occupancy. Each room and its ensuite bathroom will be shared between two same-gender participants. The shared superior rooms will be fitted with twin beds and feature ensuite bathrooms with a shower. They are decorated in a charming Moroccan style, using eco-friendly materials that give the space an authentic oriental feel. Located in the towers on the third floor, on the rooftop, the rooms measure about 35 m² (or 377 sq. ft.) and offer a lovely view of the gardens of the venue and the surrounding argan grove. They have access to stunning private shaded terraces equipped with sunbeds, xeric plants, tables, and chairs. ### Single standard ensuite room Three standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. These small and tastefully decorated rooms feature a comfortable double bed, an ensuite shower bathroom, AC, and Wi-Fi. Two of the rooms are located on the first floor, while the other is located on the second floor of the venue. ### Single superior ensuite room Three superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Decorated in a traditional Berber style with woven rugs and earthy colors, these spacious rooms feature a comfortable double bed, an ensuite shower bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Two of the rooms are located on the second floor (a panoramic view of the argan grove and a palm grove below), while the other is located on the first floor of the venue. ### Single deluxe suite Three deluxe suites are available for single occupancy. Each bright and spacious suite accommodates one retreat participant and consists of two bedrooms (one master bedroom and one smaller room, where you can relax) and a private bathroom. The master bedroom features a four-poster bed. Located on the second floor of the fortress, the suites feature air conditioning and Wi-Fi. ## Food Indulge in the rich tapestry of Moroccan flavors during the art retreat with Flora Bowley. The talented chef at the venue will delight you with authentic dishes crafted from the freshest ingredients: succulent fruits, crisp vegetables, olives, wild almonds, and highlights like velvety goat cheese, golden argan oil, and mountain honey. Immerse yourself in Moroccan culture with every bite, as each meal reflects the country’s vibrant traditions and the soulful artistry of its cuisine. Quench your thirst with a range of beverages, from cool water and zesty juices to fragrant coffee and soothing herbal tea. As the sun sets, revel in 'aperitivo hour', complementing dinner with unlimited wine. Every meal promises to nourish both your creativity and wellness. All meals are included. Please let us know in advance about specific dietary requirements. However, note that we cannot cater to severe or life-threatening allergies. Delight yourself with the food options served at the retreat below. The menu may vary based on the availability of seasonal ingredients. ## Getting There Taking place at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, the art retreat with Flora Bowley will be hosted at an eco-friendly fortress, surrounded by a UNESCO-protected argan forest. This stunningly beautiful region is just 20 minutes from Agadir, on Morocco's Atlantic coast. During your retreat, you'll explore Agadir's historic Medina on a guided half-day trip to Souk El Had, complete with a local guide and a cable car panorama of the coast, before ascending to the Kasbah of Agadir Oufella fortress. Further afield, you'll sketch your way through the imperial city of Taroudant and the Palais Claudio Bravo. **To be transferred to the retreat venue, please arrive at Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK).** We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel because of the current disruptions in flight schedules. It is best to arrive in Morocco a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone. Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you have been charged for your participation. **How to get from Marrakesh to the retreat venue:** Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately three hours. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on October 26, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on November 2, 2027. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.** **Arrival transfer:** **October 26, 2027** — 1:00 PM (leaving from Marrakesh Menara Airport RAK, arriving at the retreat venue at approximately 4:00 PM) **Departure transfer:** **November 2, 2027** — 10:00 AM (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Marrakesh Menara Airport RAK at approximately 1:00 PM) **If your travel arrangements don't work with our pre-set transfer times, please consider the following options:** - Spend extra days at a hotel in Marrakesh before or after the retreat and catch the transfer shuttles to/from Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK). - Land in Agadir and take a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Atlas Kasbah, Tighanimine El-Baz, 80 000 Agadir, Morocco; approximate cost: US$32 - 300 MAD/Moroccan Dirham). Taxi fares may vary. - Land in Marrakesh and take a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Atlas Kasbah, Tighanimine El-Baz, 80 000 Agadir, Morocco; approximate cost: US$160 - 1500 MAD/Moroccan Dirham). Taxi fares may vary. ## Reviews **Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats with Flora Bowley:** - "I went to this retreat to learn some things about art, but I came home completely transformed, emotionally and spiritually, and in many other ways!" - "This retreat was magical, full of beautiful kindred spirits, and so many heartfelt paintings evolved from our time together." - “This was my very first art retreat ever! What a treat to have joined these beautiful souls and be part of a community of strong, world-changing women! It was one of the most inspiring experiences of my life.” - "Perfect! Loved the location, the people, the class, the food. Everything was amazing. Thank you!" - "It was incredible. I loved the food, the offerings, the schedule, the venue, and the staff was so friendly and helpful and personal." **Venue reviews:** - "I have to say the retreat was beyond my expectations. I really thought it would be a wonderful time, which it was, but I wasn't expecting it to be so nice to get to know everyone. It was a great experience and I got to learn a lot. I wish I didn't have to leave because it’s been wonderful and I’m definitely going to do it again sometime." - "The retreat was amazing!!!! The venue was outstanding and the hospitality of everyone involved at the venue was so warm and friendly. I would recommend the art retreat experience to everyone who is contemplating such an adventure. You will come back a changed person!!!" - "It was relaxing and I am inspired due to the trip. It was so nice to be there. At home, I haven't the time to draw and paint for myself all day long. I felt blessed to have long days of painting workshops. The accommodation was so friendly and helpful in every small detail." - "Overall a wonderful retreat and experience. The venue was stunning, and the hosts were so incredibly kind and helpful. A truly remarkable and memorable experience!" - "I didn't really have any expectations when I booked other than I knew I was going to paint. I didn’t know where that was going to go but I was hopeful and excited about the discovery aspect of it, and it far exceeded my expectations. It was worth every mile and every penny to get here. The creativity, the empowerment, and the enlightenment I went through... I had a lot of “aha” moments and I gained clarity which is what I was hoping for. I’m excited to go back home and put new ideas into practice and have new inspiration. And we’re in Morocco! It’s Morocco! To me, that was a bucket list country to visit, and what better way to experience this beautiful culture than painting and absorbing the colors and the people and the kindness that’s here? It’s just been a whirlwind of amazing experiences. It’s been incredible and an amazing experience filled with so many sensory experiences from colors to smells to visuals, landscapes, fishing villages, mountains, and deep saffrons and rusts and browns and earth tones to beautiful Azul blues and whites... It’s just been incredible. And again, as I said, worth every mile journeyed and every penny spent to get there. And the Kasbah is fantastic - this is the perfect place for a retreat. I will take it all back home and I will play and I promise to keep experimenting and keep pushing myself. It’s been brilliant, so wonderful..." ## Frequently Asked Questions **Is the art retreat available to all levels?** The art and creative exploration retreat with artist Flora Bowley is open to all levels of art experience. **When is the art retreat available?** The art retreat with artist Flora Bowley in Agadir, Morocco, takes place between October 26 - November 2, 2027. **Are there any check-in and check-out hours?** Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on October 26, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast, by 10:00 AM, on the last day of the art retreat, November 2, 2027. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.** **Is Wi-Fi available?** Free Wi-Fi is available in the main reception space, dining and living rooms, workshop spaces, common areas, and all rooms. **I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this art retreat?** Yes. Regular, vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets are catered for. Please get in touch in advance to discuss your dietary requirements. Please note, however, that we cannot accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. **How do I get to the retreat venue?** Private airport transfers at prearranged times to and from Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately three hours. We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in Morocco a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. Alternatively, you can land in Agadir and take a taxi to the retreat venue. The retreat venue is approximately a 20-minute drive from Agadir Al-Massira International Airport (AGA). For more information, please read the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/the-art-of-aliveness-retreat-artist-flora-bowley-morocco#location). Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you have been charged for your participation. **What’s the weather like in Agadir, Morocco, in late October?** The weather in Agadir, Morocco, in late October is warm, sunny, and ideal for painting outdoors. You can expect average highs of around 28°C / 83°F during the day, dropping to cool lows of around 14°C / 57°F at night. **What should I pack?** Please pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a swimsuit, insect repellent, soothing cream for insect bites, a cardigan for chilly evenings, comfortable shoes, a sun hat and sunglasses, personal care items, and any personal medication you might need. **Can I do laundry while on the retreat?** Laundry facilities are available at the retreat venue. **What supplies do I need for the workshops?** A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Flora Bowley will be provided five months before the retreat takes place. Tables, chairs, water cups, paper towels, wooden French easels, plein-air chairs, appropriate disposal buckets, and a printer/scanner are included and will be available at the venue. **Students are responsible for bringing their own art supplies, based on the instructor’s recommended list.** **How many people are to be expected on the art retreat?** There is a maximum number of 17 participants. **Are SPA treatments included?** A complimentary relaxing Moroccan steam bath 'hammam' is included in your retreat. A full range of massage treatments, salt cave spa treatments, salt therapies, and purifying wildflower baths can be scheduled upon arrival to be paid for on location. **Do I need a visa?** Guests traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the EU, and/or Schengen member states may enter Morocco for tourist purposes without a visa. Please contact us for further guidance. **Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?** Credit cards are becoming widely accepted in big cities (hotels, restaurants); however, most of the country runs on cash. Make sure you notify your bank that you'll be using your card in Morocco. Take out cash from an ATM at the airport. You will need cash for taxis, small purchases, market visits, and tipping. Tipping is customary in Morocco. **Are there any age restrictions?** There are no restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently. **Is the art retreat available to guests with limited mobility?** Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited for people with limited mobility. The trips involve plenty of walking on uneven streets. Getting around the accommodation spaces, the studio, and the relaxation areas requires a short walk and climbing stairs. **What language is used during the art workshop and other activities?** The art retreat is available in English. **What happens if I need to cancel?** Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: [Purchase insurance](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip). Please review our [cancellation policy.](https://uptrek.com/cancellation-policy) **Do I need travel insurance?** Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation. For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. [Click here to purchase your insurance plan.](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip) Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at [CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com](mailto:CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com) or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the **reference code F215276** so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip. We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider. **Do I have to pay a deposit?** No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged. **Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?** UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. **Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the artists or by UpTrek?** If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructor's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation. ## Book This Retreat 👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/the-art-of-aliveness-retreat-artist-flora-bowley-morocco#book)** — no deposit required. See [cancellation policy](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/cancellation-policy) and [travel insurance requirements](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/insurance). --- **Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/the-art-of-aliveness-retreat-artist-flora-bowley-morocco **Last updated:** 2026-10-27