Gay Group Trip: Portugal And Morocco Explorer
Trip Summary:
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At a glance
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Our group trips are a great chance to travel with others. We also recommend adding in a few extra nights tailor-made to ensure you build the perfect itinerary.
Portugal and Morocco are both beautiful countries with long, fascinating histories. Combining Portugal with Morocco makes for a great twin-centre itinerary. You’ll discover the charms of the Mediterranean and North Africa in one trip.
This gay group trip will begin in Portugal, where you’ll discover the city of Porto. This city basically invented port, so port drinkers will do well here! It’s full of colourful charming buildings. From Porto, you’ll head to Lisbon, a city that’s very much on the rise. It’s fast becoming one of the most popular destinations in Europe. As tourists flood into the city and celebrities buy second homes, Lisbon is going to change. For now, it still has an authentic and somewhat ramshackle charm – so now is definitely a good time to see it. You can enjoy the good life for a lot less in Lisbon.
From Lisbon, you’ll fly to Marrakech and explore Morocco’s vibrant capital city. Curiously, gay travellers used to escape Europe to live more freely in Morocco – up until the 60s it was more tolerant of homosexuality than the US or the UK. How things change… homosexuality may technically be illegal in Morocco, but this country is famed for its hospitality, and your gay group guide leaders will make sure you always feel comfortable travelling here. Morocco is full of stunning landscapes, friendly people, and great food.
Throughout your gay group trip, your experienced guides will ensure that you feel welcomed and supported, allowing you to embrace the beauty and diversity of these remarkable countries with confidence and ease. From savouring local delicacies to uncovering hidden gems, your journey promises unforgettable moments and lifelong memories.
More Information
Unfortunately, Morocco’s legal framework criminalizes same-sex sexual activity, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to fines. Under the Moroccan Penal Code, same-sex relations between men are specifically prohibited, and similar laws apply to same-sex sexual activity between women. These laws are rooted in the country’s conservative interpretation of Islamic principles, which influence both societal attitudes and legal practices. Convictions under these laws can lead to sentences of up to three years in prison, and authorities have occasionally carried out arrests or crackdowns on LGBTQ+ individuals, contributing to an atmosphere of fear and repression.
LGBTQ+ individuals in Morocco are often advised to practice discretion, avoiding public displays of affection or openly identifying as queer in order to protect themselves from potential legal repercussions or harassment. While major cities like Marrakech and Casablanca are becoming slightly more cosmopolitan and tolerant, LGBTQ+ rights in Morocco are still severely limited, and public attitudes toward homosexuality remain largely conservative.
Moroccan society has traditionally viewed LGBTQ+ issues as taboo, and despite some gradual shifts in attitudes, the country has not yet seen significant legal or cultural changes that would provide broader protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. There is no recognition of same-sex relationships, and Morocco does not have any legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Activism remains underground, as LGBTQ+ advocacy is often viewed with hostility by authorities.
Despite this challenging environment, some luxury hotels and resorts in Morocco are making efforts to be inclusive and welcoming to gay travelers. These businesses typically emphasize discretion and strive to offer safe spaces for LGBTQ+ guests, though travelers are still advised to remain cautious when navigating public spaces. At Out Of Office, we ensure that we work exclusively with resorts and hotels that are committed to inclusivity and respect for all guests, providing a safer and more comfortable experience for LGBTQ+ travelers in Morocco. However, it’s essential to understand and respect local customs and laws while traveling in the country.
- 03 Apr, 2025
- 15 Apr, 2025
- 25 Sep, 2025
- Accommodation as listed
- International Flights
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In detail
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Don't forget that most of our itineraries can be totally customized. Our expert team will be able to talk you through all the options.
Days 1, 2 And 3: Porto And Douro Valley
You’ll meet at your hotel near the Douro Valley at 4pm and explore the colourful city of Porto. It is indeed the native home of port and the culinary heart of Portugal. A local guide will take you on a food and drink tour and introduce you to the finest port and Francesinhas in town.
Porto is surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Douro Valley. You’ll take a train trip and explore the region’s stunning landscapes. Discover the vineyards, explore the surroundings by foot or bike, and drink the finest port in town in the main square.
Days 4, 5 And 6: Lisbon
It’s a three-hour train ride from Porto to Lisbon. Enjoy the stunning scenery on the way. Situated along the Tagus River, Lisbon is full of charm and character. It’s the next “it” destination in Europe. Now is the best time to discover its charm before it becomes gentrified – Madonna moved to Lisbon so it must be on-trend. It’s full of charming streets, quaint bars, and dreamy fado clubs.
Sintra is just thirty minutes from Lisbon and it’s a must-see when you’re in town. You’ll visit the hilltop castles, explore the cobblestone streets, and try one of the famous and mandatory custard tarts. Naturally, you’ll also spend an evening at a fado club and discover Portugal’s famed melancholy sounds. If you still have some energy you’ll also explore the city’s nightlife.
Days 7, 8 And 9: Marrakech
It’s just a short flight from Portugal to Marrakech and you’ll be transported into a different world. Marrakech is full of energy and charm. You’ll see snake charmers in the market places, donkeys pulling carts through the streets and hear the muezzin calling the faithful to prayer several times a day. Among the souks you’ll find splendid palaces and gardens. Don’t forget to try the strong green tea.
This city is full of contradictions. It’s traditionalist yet liberal and modern. The people are very welcoming. You’ll explore the city with a local guide, join a group cooking class, visit the YSL Museum, and haggle for your life at a hammam.
Day 10: Atlas Mountains
Ranged along the coast of North Africa and beyond, the Atlas Mountains are a sight to behold. It takes just a couple of hours to get to the mud-brick homes and precipitous villages.
You’ll go for a hike, have tea in a local home, visit local craft stores and take in the majesty of the surrounding mountains. After exploring you’ll take a trip to Richard Branson’s famous and luxurious estate. In the evening you’ll return to Marrakech for a farewell dinner.
Day 11: Marrakech
Today you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight. We can of course extend your trip so you can explore more of this fascinating country.
There are so many more amazing places to see, like the former gay mecca of Tangiers and Chefchaouen, Morocco’s stunning blue city.
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