# Transformative Sketchbook Retreat II with Artists Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Gayle Kabaker in Morocco

Embark on a Transformative Art Retreat in Morocco!Have you dreamed of Morocco but felt daunted by traveling there on your own? This is your chance. Join artists Gayle Kabaker and Jennifer Orkin Lewis for an unforgettable creative journey—returning to magical Morocco for the fourth time.Over the course of this immersive retreat, you’ll build a lasting sketchbook practice, learning how to capture vivid memories and emotions on the page. With daily classes, live demonstrations, and personalized feedback from your two experienced instructors, you’ll grow as an artist while soaking in the inspiration of Moroccan culture. Artists of all levels are warmly welcomed!You’ll stay at the enchanting Atlas Kasbah, a traditional eco-lodge surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The hosts and staff are known for their warmth and attentiveness, offering not just comfort but deep knowledge of Morocco’s history, architecture, and culture. Between UpTrek’s expert organization and the Kasbah’s extraordinary care, you’ll feel completely supported and safe.Highlights of your Moroccan adventure include:Two inspiring day trips to experience the richness of the regionA traditional tea ceremony and an argan oil demonstration led by local Berber womenAn unforgettable Berber folk music performance under the starsTime to indulge in the hammam and enjoy spa treatments on siteAll of this is paired with nourishing chef-prepared meals and the camaraderie of a supportive group of 16 fellow artists.Together, you’ll create, connect, and find inspiration in one of the most captivating destinations in the world.Let Morocco ignite your imagination, renew your spirit, and transform your art!

## Details

- **Dates:** September 25 - October 2, 2026
- **Location:** Agadir, Morocco
- **Starting Price:** $4,450
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

What's includedArt classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artists Gayle Kabaker and Jennifer Orkin LewisExclusive use of the entire property including living quarters, all common areas, workshop spaces, swimming pool, SPA, terraces, and gardens7 nights of accommodation at a traditional eco-lodgeAll meals (7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners)All meals at the venue are carefully prepared by a private chef, vegan and gluten-free diets catered forUnlimited wine during dinner service every dayHomemade snacksComplimentary water, coffee, organic herbal tea, and fresh juicesTrip to Coco Polizzi MedinaTrip to the seaside village of Taghazout with opportunities for sketching on location(Optional) Trip to Souk El Had of Agadir with a cable car panorama tour of the coast and visit to an old fortressFour morning yoga sessionsArgan oil demonstration by local Berber womenTraditional Moroccan Tea CeremonyComplimentary relaxing Moroccan steam bath 'hammam'Private transportation for all planned trips, English-speaking guidesBerber folk band for the farewell dinnerRoundtrip airport transfers from/to Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) at prearranged timesAll tourist taxes and feesFully-staffed venueAccess to a private Facebook group with artists Gayle Kabaker, Jennifer Orkin Lewis, and the other retreat participants four months before the retreatNot includedAirfareTravel insuranceArt materials — you will receive a detailed list of art materials recommended by artists Gayle Kabaker and Jennifer Orkin Lewis five months before the retreatTips — tipping is customary in MoroccoOther expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Transformative Sketchbook Retreat
Join an art retreat like no other with artists Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Gayle Kabaker, taking place in the heart of Morocco. As this is Jennifer and Gayle's fouth retreat in Morocco, your instructors' expertise will open your eyes to the beauty of everyday life, as you record your adventures in your sketchbook. Joined by a supportive community of 16 other like-minded artists, you'll learn the secrets of acrylic gouache, and let your creativity loose in a safe, supportive environment. The retreat is open to participants of all levels of experience.Your experienced instructors will perform daily demonstrations, teach you a wide variety of techniques, give you tailored feedback, and, most importantly, heartily encourage your self-expression!Throughout the retreat, you'll have plenty of classes at the venue (in the studio or the lush gardens), along with inspiring art trips. You’ll have the option to explore the lively Souk El Had of Agadir, the largest urban market in Morocco, where vibrant stalls brim with spices, fabrics, and handmade goods, followed by a cable car ride offering sweeping views of the coast and a visit to a centuries-old fortress. Another trip will take you to the enchanting Coco Polizzi Medina, a reconstructed village that beautifully captures traditional Berber architecture with its carved wooden doors, tiled courtyards, and winding alleys. Finally, you’ll spend a day in the seaside village of Taghazout, a laid-back fishing town with golden beaches and clear waters, where you’ll have time to sketch on location and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.Together with Gayle and Jennifer, you'll cover topics such as:Introduction to acrylic gouacheHow to layout a sketchbook page - various methods and ideasColor exploration - learn how to mix colors and find color palettes that you loveHow to let your creativity wander and not pick at detailsCreating expressive artwork from reference photosDepicting amazing landscapes or painting the subtle details of still lifeLessons based on specific desires from the group, such as painting faces and figures, painting water, and painting on a dark background...and so much more!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 surroundings feature verdant valleys, traditional villages, and a stunning coastline, providing 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 three included yoga sessions, participate in an argan oil demonstration with the local Berber women, and enjoy a Berber folk band concert on the final evening.

### Day 1: Arrival
Land at Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) and hop on the 1:00 PM transfer to the venue. Once there, unpack and unwind in your cozy room. Settle in, then meet artists Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Gayle Kabaker, as well as your art group. Join a delightful tour the airy terraces, lush gardens, and inviting common spaces. As dusk settles, gather with your fellow participants for a delectable three-course welcome dinner, each bite enhanced by a glass of wine.

### Day 2: Art classes and tea ceremony
Start your second day at the retreat with an optional yoga class in the early morning. Fuel up with a nourishing breakfast, then gather with your group over coffee for a check-in.During the morning class, you'll get more familiar with the medium of acrylic gouache. Go over the basics with a couple of fun warm-ups designed by Gayle and Jennifer, and follow their sketching demonstrations. You'll fill in the first few pages of your sketchbook, inspired by the lush vegetation surrounding the venue or the stunning landscape seen from the terraces.Refuel with a delicious lunch before joining the afternoon class. You'll reconvene in the studio or on the terraces for a hands-on practice session. As you work, Gayle and Jennifer will perform more demos, explaining their approach to sketching and giving you examples from their own sketchbooks. Learn to interpret and simplify what you see, further developing your sketches into wonderful paintings.In the afternoon, prepare for a special event: a traditional Moroccan tea ceremony. This cherished ritual is an essential element of Morocco's culture of hospitality. Guided by an officiant, engage your senses as you sip on the high-quality mint tea. This is a perfect occasion to sketch the deliberate, gracious gestures emblematic of this ceremony, as well as the officiant's traditional attire.Conclude the day with a sumptuous three-course dinner and reflect on your progress so far, or chat with your fellow artists.

### Day 3: Art trip to Taghazout
Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast, then gather around for a coffee and a check-in, preparing for the first exciting art trip of your retreat.You'll visit the tranquil fishing town of Taghazout, known for some of the most breathtaking beaches in Morocco. After a scenic 1-hour drive past the Atlas mountain range, you'll reach the whitewashed houses of Taghazout. Bask in the sun's embrace on the golden sands, or let your creativity flow with a quick sketch. The location is perfect for studying the coastal landscape or painting the local beachgoers and surfers. If the weather's warm enough, why not go for a quick dip in the sea?You'll enjoy a delicious packed lunch, then return to the venue in the afternoon. Reconvene with your art group for another class, where you'll leverage the fresh inspiration gathered in Taghazout. Continue filling your sketchbook with beautiful paintings, using your reference photos or sketches as a starting point. As you work, Gayle and Jennifer will be available for tailored feedback and advice.Enjoy your free time in the late afternoon, then wind down with a chef-made dinner and a glass of wine, reflecting on your seaside adventure.

### Day 4: Art classes and argan oil demo
Start the day with another refreshing yoga class, then enjoy breakfast with your group. Over a cup of coffee, check in with each other's progress and learn more about the plans for the day.Set your materials in the paradisiac gardens of the venue for another display of Berber 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. They bring their beautiful, pure products to sell, making this a win-win for all! Take a break with a light lunch, then return to your classes in the afternoon. It's time for another hands-on practice session as you continue developing your sketches from the morning. As always, Gayle and Jennifer will be there in case you need extra help, giving you tips to make your paintings truly shine.In the late afternoon, spend your free time as you wish. Wander the gardens, sketch on your own, or exchange stories with fellow participants. Dinner comes with another traditional feast, prepared by the private chef and paired with a glass of wine.

### Day 5: Trip to Souk El Had & Coco Polizzi Medina
Begin the day with a refreshing breakfast before a coffee check-in to chat about the day ahead. Gear up for an adventure to Agadir’s bustling Souk El Had, the largest urban market in Africa and an authentic Moroccan experience in itself.Here, let the kaleidoscope of spices, fruits, and handwoven fabrics inspire you. Hunt for unique finds to bring home as souvenirs, snap a few reference photos, or gather inspiration for your sketches by observing the locals go about their day. Cap your visit with a cable car ride, taking you all the way up to the Agadir Oufla fort. You'll be able to spot some stunning panoramas of the coast.Return to the venue for lunch before heading to Coco Polizzi Medina, a striking architectural and cultural landmark on the outskirts of Agadir.Once inside this recreated fortress-like Medina, with its arched gateways, tiled courtyards, and maze-like alleyways, you’ll set up your materials for an immersive painting session. Surrounded by traditional Moroccan craftsmanship and blooming gardens, you’ll sketch the distinctive towers and stonework of Coco Polizzi, practicing how to capture structure and atmosphere directly on the page. Jennifer and Gayle will guide you in painting with freedom and looseness, showing you how to suggest the essence of the Medina’s architecture without being tied down to every detail.Use your spare time to relax, reflect, or roam the venue grounds—maybe start a new sketch or connect with fellow artists. Evening brings a three-course chef-made dinner with wine, the perfect end to an adventurous day.

### Day 6: Art at the venue
Ground yourself with another yoga session in the early morning, then refuel with some tasty breakfast. Over a relaxed check-in, find out more about the plans for the day.Set up your materials in the verdant gardens of the venue for an insightful class about on-location painting. Inspired by the unique architecture of the venue, the surrounding landscape, and the blooming plants, you'll depict the likeness of the fortress in your sketchbook. Practice your ability to transpose what you see onto paper. Jennifer and Gayle will help you paint more loosely and avoid getting bogged down in details.Take a break during lunch, then return to your classes in the afternoon. Jennifer and Gayle will help you refine the paintings you started in the sketchbook but haven't had the time to finish yet. Add that final bit of polish while listening to the valuable insights of your instructors. You'll also prepare for the painting marathon, taking place the following day.Spend the rest of the evening lounging by the pool and chatting with your fellow creatives, then treat yourself to a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the private chef, paired with a glass of wine.

### Day 7: Art class at the venue
Your final day of the retreat starts with another relaxing yoga session, followed by a delightful breakfast. Today's classes bring a unique challenge: a full-day painting marathon in the studio. As guided by Gayle and Jennifer, you'll try to paint as many pieces as possible in a loose and expressive way. This fast-paced exercise will help you push your limits, focusing less on painting everything perfectly and just letting your creativity flow.The painting marathon will continue after a lunch break. Return to the studio to complete the challenge, which will last until the evening. As a final exercise, you'll have the chance to present your work during a relaxed mini-exhibition with your group. Discuss your amazing progress, and give and receive constructive feedback from your peers.As the sun dips, come together one last time for a special farewell dinner featuring delicious wine. The evening is made even more memorable with a live performance from a Berber folk band, encapsulating the magic of Morocco. Immortalize the moment with one last sketch of the mesmerizing performers.

### 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

- [Jennifer Orkin Lewis](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/jennifer-orkin-lewis) — Artist, Illustrator, Author, Teacher
- [Gayle Kabaker](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/gayle-kabaker) — Illustrator, Writer, Visual storyteller

## 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 (female only)
You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender retreat participant. The shared standard ensuite room will be fitted with twin beds and feature ensuite shower bathrooms. It has a panoramic view of the argan grove and a palm grove below. The room is decorated in a traditional Berber style, with woven rugs and earthy, warm colors.

### Shared superior ensuite room
You will share this room and its ensuite bathroom with another same-gender retreat participant. The three 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, 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 single standard ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Small, tastefully decorated rooms, the single rooms come with a double bed, an ensuite shower bathroom, AC, and Wi-Fi.

### Single superior ensuite room
Three single superior ensuite rooms are available for single occupancy. Decorated in a traditional Berber style with woven rugs and earthy colors, the larger rooms feature a double bed, an ensuite shower bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. They have a panoramic view of the argan grove and a palm grove below.

### Single deluxe suite
Three deluxe single 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 Gayle Kabaker and Jennifer Orkin Lewis. 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.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. Delve deeper into the food options served during 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 Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Gayle Kabaker 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 visit Agadir's Souk El Had, Africa's largest urban market, as well as the charming fishing village of Taghazout.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 September 25, 2026. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on October 2, 2026.Arrival transfer:September 25, 2026 — 1:00 PM (leaving from Marrakesh Menara Airport RAK, arriving at the retreat venue at approximately 4:00 PM)Departure transfer: October 2, 2026 — 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$30 - 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$150 - 1500 MAD/Moroccan Dirham). Taxi fares may vary.

## Reviews

Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats with Gayle Kabaker and Jennifer Orkin Lewis:"Gayle and Jennifer and UpTrek put together a memorable retreat! The instructors are a perfect team. The activities and demos they plan are well thoughtout and provide so much information from their many years as successful, professional artists. The participants are given the space to learn and experiment with new techniques and also have time to relax in a beautiful environment. I would sign up for another trip with Gayle and Jennifer and Uptrek again in a heartbeat. Thanks so much for a memorable experience.""Loved it, so amazing! Beautiful venue, great people, excellent teachers!!""It was perfect and amazing and delightful. Exceeded all of my expectations!!""Jennifer & Gayle created the vibe for great group interaction & support. I had a wonderful time and the pace worked for me....lessons, painting time, trip to the beach, demonstrations, exploring the gardens & socializing!""Everything was exceptional. The location, hospitality, instruction, and others who participated in the retreat. I will recommend the lodgings (accommodations, staff, and food) to others, I will recommend the UpTrek organization, and I will recommend Jen and Gayle as art instructors to others. It was a magical week.""I thoroughly enjoyed this retreat! Jennifer and Gayle are wonderful teachers. They are down to earth and so much fun! Great for all levels. Uptrek’s organization and professionalism is outstanding. Feel confident in booking a retreat with them. The service, warmth and kindness of the staff at the venue went above & beyond our expectations. Many memories and friendships were made!"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 retreat with Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Gayle Kabaker is open to all levels of art experience.When is the art retreat available?The art retreat with artists Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Gayle Kabaker in Agadir, Morocco, takes place between September 25 - October 2, 2026.Are there any check-in and check-out hours?Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on September 25, 2026. Check-out is after breakfast, by 10:00 AM, on the last day of the art retreat, October 2, 2026.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. 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 September?The weather in Agadir, Morocco, in May is generally sunny and warm. You can expect average highs of 28°C / 82°F during the day that drop to around 17°C / 63°F at night. Agadir enjoys very mild winters and warm summers, without excesses, and very little rain throughout the year. May is an excellent time to stay in Agadir, as the temperatures are pleasant without being too hot and sunshine abounds.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 art supplies do I need for the art classes?A detailed list of art materials recommended by artists Jennifer Orkin Lewis and Gayle Kabaker will be provided five months before the retreat takes place. French easels, glass jars, paper towels, appropriate disposal bins, tables, chairs, and plastic covers are available at the retreat venue.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. The currency is the dirham; 10 dirhams = US$1. 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. Please review our 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.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 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 instructors' 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/transformative-sketchbook-retreat-ii-artists-jennifer-orkin-lewis-gayle-kabaker-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).

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**Last updated:** 2026-01-21