Overview
Embark on a 20-day journey starting from Casablanca, meticulously crafted to unveil the treasures of this enchanting North African country in a laid-back manner. Delve into a genuine Moroccan experience from the get-go with a visit to the grand Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. The wonders of Rabat await, from the awe-inspiring Hassan Tower to the intricate Mohammed V Mausoleum decorations, not forgetting the historic Chellah near the Royal Palace. Asilah, known for its annual wall art exhibitions, showcases contemporary Moroccan creativity, while its bustling souk offers a plethora of souvenirs and artistic gems. A leisurely stroll along Paradise Beach presents a chance to inhale the invigorating Atlantic breeze.
Venture towards Chefchaoeun via Tangiers and Tetouan, where panoramic vistas of the Rif Mountains unfold. Chefchaoeun’s iconic blue-painted houses and white-washed alleyways offer a uniquely charming experience. En route to Fes, a stop at the UNESCO-listed Roman ruins of Volubilis provides a glimpse into Morocco’s rich historical tapestry. Explore Fes’ marvels on a comprehensive day tour, including its fortified medina, the Royal Palace, ancient Madrassas, and vibrant handicraft-filled souks. Capture the essence of the city at the famous leather tanneries.
Prepare for transformative experiences with camel treks through the crimson dunes of Erg Chebbi and Erg Chegaga. Witness breathtaking sunsets and sunrises atop the dunes, culminating in evenings filled with Berber music and celestial displays. Embrace the serene ambiance of the Sahara Desert from your cozy private tent in luxury desert camps. In Merzouga, embark on a thrilling trek through the dunes or opt for a relaxing 4×4 tour, complemented by a cultural immersion in Khamlia village.
Journey through Berber villages en route to the Toudgha Gorges and the picturesque Dades Valley, offering opportunities for guided hikes and cultural exchanges. Explore the UNESCO site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, witness the timeless allure of the Dra’a Valley, and discover the untouched beauty of the south. Unravel Berber traditions at the saffron museum in Taliouine, the ancient ramparts of Taroudant, and the coastal charm of Essaouira.
Immerse yourself in Marrakech’s vibrant tapestry with a guided tour of its medina, bustling souks, Majorelle gardens, historic madrassahs, royal palaces, and the iconic Djemaa El Fna square. Indulge in luxurious accommodations at riads across the Imperial Cities, Morocco’s desert expanses, and the Atlantic coastline, savoring the finest flavours of Moroccan gastronomy wherever your journey takes you.
Highlights
- Discover the beauty of Casablanca at the Hassan II Mosque
- Wander around Asilah's medina adorned with captivating art
- Roam through the blue-hued alleys of Chefchaouen
- Uncover the history at the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis
- Embark on a camel journey through the Erg Chebbi dunes
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at the airport, we will welcome you and accompany you to Casablanca, the financial capital of Morocco, where you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Moroccan countryside and lush vegetation. Our first stop will be at the iconic symbol of the city, the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Africa boasting the tallest minaret in the world. This architectural masterpiece is unique in its location as it stands proudly over the ocean, adorned with exquisite traditional tiling and intricate Moroccan craftsmanship. While there may be a wait for tickets, this presents a perfect opportunity to explore the mosque and appreciate its grandeur. Guided tours, lasting an hour each, are available every hour for a comprehensive experience. Following this visit, our journey continues to Rabat, the capital city, where we will check in to a charming riad for the night. Take a leisurely evening stroll through the medina and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality that Morocco is renowned for.
Following a delightful breakfast at your riad, embark on a scenic drive to our next stop, the enchanting Asilah. Nestled along Morocco's Atlantic coast, south of Tangier, Asilah beckons with its historic old medina, a marvel constructed by the colonial Portuguese. Encircled by impeccably preserved towering ramparts and grand gates adorned with captivating artwork, the medina is a treasure trove waiting to be explored on foot in a single day. Wander through Asilah's picturesque whitewashed alleys, adorned with vibrant paintings that serve as the town's focal point. These artistic masterpieces not only provide stunning backdrops for photographs but also magnetize art enthusiasts throughout the year. Explore the local souk, where talented artisans showcase their unique creations for sale, offering a chance to acquire a special souvenir, textile, or musical instrument. Indulge in a delightful lunch or dinner at esteemed eateries like Restaurante Oceano Casa Pepe or Port XIV. Post-meal, meander through the medina, uncovering the ancient 15th-century ramparts, paying a visit to the Church of San Bartolome, and enjoying a leisurely stroll along Paradise Beach or savoring a coffee while gazing out at the vast Atlantic Ocean. As night falls, retire to a serene guest-house to round off this unforgettable day in Asilah.
Continuing our journey through Morocco, today we head northwards to Tangier. Tangier offers the unique opportunity to visit both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean beach, explore the renowned Grotto of Hercules, and admire the Cap of Spartel. Following a delightful lunch, our next destination is Chefchaouen. En route, we pause at Tetouan, known for its striking white-painted houses and Spanish-style streets and squares. In Chefchaouen, spend the evening getting lost in the enchanting medina, strolling through winding alleyways, or relaxing in one of the charming cafés in the town center. Retire for the night in a beautiful riad.
Indulge in a leisurely day by basking in the serene ambience of the city's picturesque cafés that boast stunning vistas of the Rif Mountains. Stroll through the lively, whitewashed alleyways, perfect for capturing stunning photographs. Opt for a guided sightseeing excursion to unveil the hidden gems of the blue town that may elude solo exploration. Immerse yourself in the vibrantly adorned local stores, perhaps acquiring a memento, and capture the charm of the blue-hued dwellings that grace this unspoiled town. Conclude your day with a brief trek up the hills across the river at the town's edge.
Upon departing from the riad following breakfast, we embark on a journey towards Fes, traversing verdant farms and the captivating landscapes of the Rif Mountains until we reach the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Extending across a vast expanse, these ancient remnants grant breathtaking panoramas of lush valleys, fields, and undulating hills. Visitors have the option to engage a local guide to delve deeper into the enthralling history of this expansive cultural site. Subsequently, we explore the sacred town of Moulay Edriss Zerhouni. Though access to the mausoleum is restricted to non-Muslims, a visit to the main square rewards with picturesque vistas and charming boutique stores. Our journey then winds through hills and mountains en route to Fez, where a delightful dinner and overnight accommodation in a splendid riad await.
After a hearty breakfast at your riad, embark on a captivating walking expedition through Fes to immerse yourself in the historical treasures of Morocco's oldest Imperial city. Fes El Bali stands as a testament to time, retaining its pristine charm. Delve into the labyrinthine streets of this ancient district to marvel at the ornate Bou Inania Madrassa, the bustling medina, and the grandeur of the Kairaouine Mosque, where the intricate tile work provides a picturesque backdrop for your camera lens. The esteemed Kairaouine University, established by Fatima Al Fihri in 859, holds the prestigious titles of the world's oldest university in the records of Guinness Book and UNESCO. A mandatory stop at the renowned leather tanneries will enlighten you on the art of transforming leather hides into the raw materials used for crafting the exquisite leather goods that adorn the medina's stalls. Later in the day, venture into Fes El Jdid to explore the Museum of Moroccan Arts, followed by leisurely strolls through the remaining alleys of the medina, lined with vibrant shops offering a plethora of silver and leather souvenirs waiting to be discovered.
After having breakfast in Fes, your journey takes you through Ifrane, known as the Switzerland of Morocco due to its distinct houses with sloping roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. As you approach Azrou, nestled in the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas, keep an eye out for Barbary apes frolicking among the cedar and oak trees. Crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains and passing through Timahdite, you'll reach Midelt, renowned as the "apple capital" of Morocco, situated at the base of Ayachi Mountain where a delightful lunch is awaiting you.
Continuing your voyage southward, you'll traverse the Tizi-n-Talghemt pass, descending into the Ziz Valley celebrated for its expansive palm trees, lush green oasis, and majestic Kasbahs. The expedition leads you through Errachidia and Erfoud, famed for its annual date festival and indigenous fossils, offering a glimpse into the art of crafting fossils into exquisite artifacts and home decor pieces.
The odyssey through Morocco progresses towards Rissani and culminates at the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga. Embark on a mesmerizing camel ride lasting up to an hour and a half to witness the breathtaking sunset from atop the dunes before returning to a lavish desert camp. Indulge in a delectable dinner and unwind for the night at the opulent desert camp in Merzouga, complete with private bathrooms, king-sized beds, intricate Moroccan décor, and elegantly placed lamps that amplify the tranquility and allure of the dunes.
In the morning, following breakfast, you lead the camels loaded with supplies for lunch preparation out in the dunes, accompanied by your camel guide. The morning trek spans about three hours, with an additional three-hour journey in the afternoon back to the desert camp for dinner. Alternatively, you have the option of embarking on a half-day 4x4 excursion around the Erg Chebbi dunes to explore Khamlia village. In this village, you will have the chance to experience Berber performances of Gnawa music and share a cup of tea with the nomadic locals. As night falls, dinner is served, followed by an evening of music by the campfire before retiring to your private tent for the night.
Should you rise early, you have the chance to ascend to the peak of the sand dunes and witness the mesmerizing sunrise, where the hues of the dunes and the interplay of shadows create a breathtaking spectacle. Upon returning to the camp and having breakfast, we set off towards Tinghir and the Toudgha Gorges. En route, we pause at the subterranean water channels known as "khettarat," which you can venture into to marvel at the ingenuity and architecture of this irrigation system designed to combat evaporation during the scorching summers. These channels originate at a higher elevation at one end and eventually resurface to irrigate the fields. In the Toudgha Gorges and the surrounding valley, numerous opportunities present themselves for strolls along the riverbanks, through lush gardens, fields, and the gorge itself. You may opt for a guided hike in the gorge led by a local expert. Continuing the journey, we progress towards the Dades Valley, where you can explore the verdant surroundings and spend the night in a charming guesthouse overlooking the valley.
Following breakfast, an exciting opportunity awaits to explore the picturesque Dades Valley and embark on a leisurely stroll through its lush surroundings. The journey then ventures towards Skoura Oasis, venturing off the beaten path along the Boutartar piste to engage with Berber nomads in their traditional cave dwellings and share a cup of tea with them. This immersive experience offers insight into the challenges of nomadic life in the arid environment, where sustaining their livestock and nurturing their families proves to be a formidable task. Subsequently, the itinerary unfolds through the renowned Valley of the Roses, celebrated for its annual Rose Festival in May, and pauses at local cosmetic cooperatives to discover and sample indigenous cosmetic and toiletry products. Post lunch, the expedition continues along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, reaching Skoura Oasis. A visit to the meticulously restored Kasbah Amredhil provides a glimpse into the distinctive architecture of southern Morocco. The remainder of the day can be spent meandering through Skoura Oasis, unraveling its abundant palm groves and observing the daily rhythm of the community.
Following breakfast, our journey leads us to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s esteemed UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a favored filming location for Hollywood productions. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you will delve into the rich history of this renowned Moroccan kasbah. Subsequently, we traverse through Ouarzazate and cross the Tizi-n-Tinfifte Pass towards Agdez. The descent from the pass unveils a mesmerizing landscape adorned with countless palm trees, verdant oases, and ancient kasbahs, signaling the commencement of the Dra’a Valley. Our itinerary includes a visit to Kasbah Tamnougalte, the eldest kasbah in the Dra’a Valley. Continuing our expedition southwards, we follow the path of the ancient caravans to Zagora. Feel free to spend the remainder of the afternoon exploring Zagora or unwinding in one of the cozy cafés.
Upon completion of breakfast, we embark on a journey to Tamegroute, where you will explore the local green pottery co-operatives and the historic Qoranic Library. Our route then takes us further south, passing through numerous Berber villages until we reach M’hamid, situated at the southernmost end of the asphalted road and renowned as the gateway to the Sahara Desert. A delectable lunch awaits us here. In the afternoon, we venture towards the Erg Chegaga Dunes, navigating approximately 60km of off-road terrain. The route showcases various facets of the desert landscape, from "erg" dunes to "hammada" stony deserts and oases. These remote sand dunes offer a serene escape from urban life, providing an opportunity to revel in moments of tranquility. Following a soothing cup of tea at the camp, delight in a camel trek to the pinnacle of the Erg Chegaga dunes standing at 300m, offering a breathtaking view of the sunset. Subsequently, dinner will be served at the camp, accompanied by traditional music and nomadic drumming by the campfire. Our accommodation for the night will be at a luxurious camp featuring private bathrooms, king-sized beds, elegant Moroccan decor, and strategically placed lamps to enhance your immersion in the serenity and allure of the dunes.
Experience a complete day of desert trekking in the vast Sahara Desert following your morning meal. Accompanied by camels laden with all the essentials for a lunch cooked amidst the dunes by your camel handler, you can choose to either walk alongside them or ride them. The trekking duration spans around five hours, divided into two and a half hours each for the morning and afternoon sessions. Afterward, retreat back to the desert camp or opt for a leisurely day spent unwinding in the tranquil desert surroundings.
Our day begins with a delightful breakfast followed by a fascinating drive across the breathtaking Sahara Desert. Traversing the flat, stony terrain, we make a stop at the salt-crusted Iriqui Lake, offering a chance to search for fossils scattered loosely on the ground or firmly embedded within the rocks. Moving on from the desert's edge in Foum Zguid, our journey takes us northward towards Taznakht, renowned for its exquisite Berber gelims and traditional carpet weaving, where a delightful lunch awaits. Crossing the Tizi-n-Ikhsane and Tizi-n-Tighatine passes, we reach Taliouine, the heart of the saffron cultivation area. Post-lunch, a visit is planned to a local museum showcasing saffron agriculture, where the tantalizing aroma of saffron fills the air upon entry. Our adventure then leads us to Taroudant, where we conclude the day with an overnight stay in a charming riad.
A morning excursion is planned to visit a town often referred to as "the little Marrakech". This town is known for its impressive ramparts, colorful medina, and bustling local markets. Following this, you will journey through the scenic Souss River Valley, passing by argan tree groves, banana plantations, and orange orchards until you reach Agadir. Continuing north from Agadir, the road winds along the coast, offering views of Taghazout, a popular destination for surfers, and the Anti-Atlas Mountains overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Upon reaching Essaouira, you will be guided to your riad for some relaxation and settling in. In the evening, you can unwind at one of the cozy cafes nestled in the heart of the town.
Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador to the Portuguese, is a beloved destination for many tourists. This enchanting coastal town offers a delightful experience. Begin your day with breakfast at your riad before embarking on a full-day tour to explore the wonders of Essaouira. Visit the women's co-operatives, where argan nuts are skillfully crafted into versatile oils used in salads and skincare. Wander through the bustling local markets in the medina, known for its narrow lanes brimming with shops selling thuja wood products of various sizes. Capture the essence of the town by visiting local artisan workshops and admiring the grand ramparts. Indulge in a selection of freshly caught fish at the seafront, prepared to your liking. After a satisfying lunch, continue to explore the medina, stroll along the beach, or unwind at a seaside café. With its surfing opportunities and scenic beaches, Essaouira is a haven for coastal enthusiasts seeking relaxation and tranquility.
Upon completing our morning meal, we proceed with our vacation in Morocco by driving towards Marrakech. En route, we traverse numerous Berber villages, potentially making a stop at a co-operative specializing in argan oil, known for its superior quality compared to what is available elsewhere. The Agafay Desert captivates with its rugged, arid terrain resembling the moon and offering unexpected yet magnificent vistas of the snow-covered High Atlas Mountains during the winter season. Nestled amidst this desert lies a surprising oasis exuding tranquility and serenity, occasionally interrupted by passing herds of sheep in search of nourishment. Following our venture through Marrakech, we arrive at Agafay, where a warm reception awaits us with customary mint tea and delectable Moroccan pastries. Subsequently, relish a camel ride lasting approximately one to one and a half hours, adorned in azure turbans, capturing mesmerizing photographs against the backdrop of a setting sun and the majestic snow-capped Atlas Mountains. As night falls, savor the delights of Moroccan cuisine under a canopy of shimmering stars in an enchanting ambiance.
Upon finishing our morning meal, we embark on a journey towards the grand Atlas Mountains. En route, we make a pit stop at the inaugural Berber village of Tahanout and the mausoleum of Moulay Brahim. Delight in a cup of tea with a local Berber household, where you will be treated to a glimpse of a traditional hammam and bread baking in ovens. Following this, we visit the Toubkal National Park and later Asni, a quaint Berber village renowned for its indigenous souks. Continuing our path eastward through the Ourika valley, we pass by lush gardens, fruitful orchards, charming villages, seasonal abodes, as well as various cafés and eateries. This section of the High Atlas Mountains offers an excellent setting for guided hikes led by local Berber guides. These treks delve deeper into the picturesque landscape, providing insights into mountain vegetation and the authentic Berber way of life. It presents a valuable opportunity to immerse oneself in the lesser-known facets of Moroccan culture, forging lasting memories.
On our return journey to Marrakech, we plan a visit to the Saffron Garden, Paradis du Safran, showcasing not only saffron cultivation but also a vast olive grove, citrus trees, kumquats, pomegranates, and an array of aromatic and medicinal herbs. Visitors can partake in a guided tour and learn about saffron production. Note that the garden closes on Mondays and Tuesdays since the beginning of 2020. The admission fee of 100 dirham covers the tour, saffron tea, bottled water, and a rejuvenating barefoot Kneipp walk. Shortly after our time at the garden, we reach the Anima Garden, an extraordinary creation by Andre Heller developed over a decade. Revered as one of the world's most beautiful and imaginative gardens, it offers a unique experience. We return to Marrakech by late afternoon for an overnight stay.
Marrakech is renowned for its vibrant Djemma El Fna, featuring juice and dried fruit stalls, henna artists, snake charmers, and a variety of food vendors. To kick off your day, a knowledgeable local guide will accompany you on a tour of Marrakech. Depending on your schedule and interests, you may explore attractions such as the Majorelle Garden, once owned by Yves St Laurent and known for its distinctive Majorelle blue hue. Another notable garden is the enchanting le Jardin Secret, an Islamic oasis with four symmetrical sections fed by water channels from the Atlas Mountains. The towering Koutoubia Mosque, a prominent city landmark near Djemma el Fna, offers a captivating sight though entry is restricted to non-Muslims. The fragrant orange blossom garden behind the mosque is particularly delightful in spring, with numerous shaded benches for visitors. Don't miss out on El Bahia Palace, the Ben Youssef Madrasa, the historic Saadian Tombs, and the intriguing souks, including the tanneries, metal workshops crafting exquisite lamps, and the vibrant Jewish quarter known as the Mellah.
Following your morning meal at the riad, your driver will transport you to the airport based on your flight schedule, ensuring you arrive promptly for your departure.
Tour Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle
- knowledgeable certified tour guide
- Private English speaking driver
- Premium class accommodation
- Daily breakfasts & 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.