Overview
Embark on an 11-day Moroccan escapade delving into the Sahara’s depths, wandering through the grand kasbah of Ait-Ben-Haddou, and immersing in stargazing sessions guided by a seasoned astrologer. This journey promises a blend of authentic cultural encounters and awe-inspiring architectural marvels in Casablanca and Fez. Venturing off the beaten path, you will uncover hidden gems like the enchanting blue city of Chefchaouen and the rugged Todra Gorge nestled in the breathtaking High Atlas mountains. Culinary delights await, from savoring traditional Berber cuisine in the desert to relishing contemporary dishes at a chic rooftop setting in Marrakech.
Highlights
- Capture stunning images of vivid blue houses in Chefchaouen
- Dine in traditional Berber fashion under the dazzling Sahara sky
- Wander through the labyrinthine paths of the Fez Medina
- Experience a camel trek at sunrise in the desert
- Explore the surreal landscapes of the Dades Gorges on foot
Itinerary
Upon arrival in Casablanca, the seaside city that marks the start of your Moroccan adventure, you will be greeted and transferred to your accommodation.
Upon finishing your morning meal, make your way directly to the Hassan II Mosque, the second-largest operational mosque in Africa. Perched dramatically on a rocky promontory extending into the Atlantic Ocean, this mosque boasts a towering minaret standing at 210 meters high, making it the second tallest globally upon its completion in 1993. Once you've explored this architectural marvel, bid farewell to Casablanca and journey northwards to the captivating city of Chefchaouen, nestled beneath the rugged peaks of the Rif mountains. Embark on a guided walking expedition through the evocative cobblestone pathways, and marvel at the exquisitely maintained 15th-century edifices adorned in various hues of blue.
Your journey continues this morning towards the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, dating back to around 300 BCE and nestled on a fertile plain surrounded by wheat fields. Once the capital of the Berber kingdom of Mauretania, Volubilis was granted Unesco World Heritage status in 1997 and stands today as one of Morocco's most remarkable archaeological sites. Adorned with marble columns, intricate mosaics, and plinths inscribed with Latin, the city offers a glimpse into its rich history. Following your exploration, make your way to Fez, a city renowned as the cultural and spiritual hub of Morocco. Immerse yourself in the local culture by sharing a home-cooked meal with a family in the old medina district and partake in a captivating storytelling session.
Explore the vibrant array of colors, sounds, and scents while meandering through Fez Medina, the extensive walled heart of the city. Its intricate pathways are bordered by markets offering a variety of goods ranging from local delicacies and aromatic spices to intricately crafted fabrics and household items. Noteworthy architectural marvels include the Bou Inania Madrasa featuring a stunning green-tiled minaret, the elaborate Bab Bou Jeloud gate, and the Nejjarine Fondouk, a historical inn now home to a woodworking museum. Conclude your journey with a delightful lunch at a traditional Medina eatery, followed by a leisurely afternoon at your disposal.
Embark on a new day – bid farewell to the urban hustle and venture into the untouched beauty of the Sahara. Following breakfast, set off towards the southernmost region of Morocco until you reach the quaint desert hamlet of Merzouga. This charming village serves as the entrance to the grand Erg Chebbi dunes, towering at 150m and stretching over a vast, golden 30km terrain from north to south. Spend a night at a lavish riad – a perfect retreat to relax, reconnect with the natural surroundings, and admire the breathtaking sunset panoramas.
Embark on a thrilling 4x4 journey to a secluded village, immersing yourself in the rich culture of the Gnawa people, who trace their roots back to sub-Saharan Africa. Delve into their spiritual music and unique dance forms. Indulge in medfouna, a traditional dish from southern Morocco resembling a cheese-less stuffed pizza, for a flavorful lunch. Hold on tight as you traverse the sandy dunes towards the desert camp awaiting you for the night. Anticipate an evening filled with fragrant mint tea, campfire melodies, and authentic Berber cuisine. As darkness falls, partake in a wine-tasting affair and marvel at the starlit sky through a telescope under the guidance of a seasoned astronomer.
When exploring the Sahara, one cannot miss out on the classic desert adventure of camel riding. Begin your day bright and early, soaking in the breathtaking sunrise before embarking towards the High Atlas mountains en route to the Todra Gorge. Brace yourself for a mesmerizing experience – the Todra Gorge, with its stunning rust-colored cliffs and dramatic canyons, stands as one of Morocco's most impressive landscapes. As the day winds down, reach your charming mountain retreat just in time to enjoy cocktails against a backdrop of a sky painted in hues of pink and tangerine by the setting sun.
Embarking on a guided trek through the breathtaking terrain shaped by the Dades River, which stretches 350km from the High Atlas mountains to the Sahara over centuries, offers a captivating insight into rural Moroccan life. As you traverse agricultural lands and lush riverine forests, you will reach the remarkable Monkey Fingers rock formations, known for their distinct shape. A satisfying meal at a nearby guesthouse marks the culmination of this enriching experience.
Ait-Ben-Haddou stands out as one of the most remarkable kasbahs scattered across Morocco. Transport yourself to another era while discovering this Unesco World Heritage site, known for its appearances in Game of Thrones and Gladiator. Make a pit stop at a local tea house for a refreshing mint tea and traditional Moroccan pastry before continuing your journey to Marrakech. Embark on an evening street food tour for a delightful sensory experience, sampling dishes such as tagine, couscous, pastries, sheep's head, and snail soup.
Embarking on a comprehensive Marrakech day tour entails exploring the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, a prominent city landmark flaunting the tallest minaret in Marrakech. The journey continues to the historical Saadian Tombs, housing the graves of Saadian dynasty members from the 16th and 17th centuries adorned with intricate decorations and exquisite tilework. A visit to the opulent Bahia Palace, commissioned by a Moroccan nobleman in the 19th century, showcases its ornate tilework and lush gardens. Delve into the bustling souks, vibrant Moroccan markets offering a plethora of goods from spices to jewelry.
Following a brief lunch interlude, venture to the Jardin Secret, dating back to the Saadian era over four centuries ago, a splendid testament to Arab-Andalusian and Moroccan palace architecture. Discover its captivating gardens and structures, epitomizing Islamic artistry.
Concluding the excursion, the tour meanders through the expansive Menara gardens, a historic public park established in the 12th century by Almohad ruler Abd al-Mu'min. Encircled by olive groves, a sizable pond, and enchanting vistas of the Atlas Mountains, the garden offers a tranquil retreat for visitors.
Feel free to depart from the hotel and head towards the airport for your return flight.
Tour Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle
- knowledgeable, certified tour guide
- Private English-speaking driver
- Premium-class accommodation
- Daily breakfasts and some dinners
- Departure transfer
Tour Excluded
- Flights
- Lunch & drinks
- Entrance fees
- Tip
- Personal expences
Price
Prices are on request and depend on your chosen accommodation, services, and time of travel.