Itinerary Summary

Day	Place	Highlights	Hotel Options
1 - 1	Casablanca	French Colonial Heritage, Iconic Architecture, Bustling Port City
1 - 2	Rabat	UNESCO World Heritage site, Hassan Tower, Ancient Roman Ruins	Riad Kalaa, Villa Mandarine
2 - 4	Chefchaouen	Turquoise City, Medina and Mosques, Hiking	Riad Darechchaouen, Lina Ryad & Spa
4 - 7	Fes	Roman Ruins, Rich Cultural Heritage, Souks	La Maison Bleue, Karawan Riad
7 - 9	Merzouga	Sahara Dessert, Dunes, Landcapes	Imperial Glory Lodges, Desert Luxury Camp
9 - 10	Ouarzazate	Gateway to 1000 Kasbahs, Sahara Desert, Taourirt Kasbah	Riad Ksar Ighnda, Le Berbere Palace
10 - 12	High Atlas Mountains	Traditional Berber Architecture, Jbel Toubkal Mountain, Trekking	Kasbah du Toubkal, Kasbah Bab Ourika
12 - 15	Marrakesh	Ancient Medina, Souks and Cuisine, Artisan Heritage	Dar Baraka & Karam, Riad Adore
15 - 17	Essaouira	Costal Town, Seafood, Souks (markets), Old town	Madada Mogador, Heure Bleue Palais

Itinerary Details

Day 1 - 1

International Arrival

Casablanca

0 Nights

Casablanca – the very name conjures up romantic images of a French colonial past, not to mention the wartime classic. Set up by the French as a key commercial port in Morocco, it’s old French legacy is reflected in its handsome Mauresque buildings.

Day 1 - 2

Your chauffeur will drive you from Casablanca to Rabat in a private vehicle (Duration: 1-2 hrs)

Rabat

1 Night

Rabat, the charming capital of Morocco, was granted its UNESCO Heritage site status in 2012. Standing at the confluence of the Bouregreg River and the Atlantic, it’s an elegant fusion of Islamic heritage and French colonial legacy.

Included Activities

Rabat’s City Delights
Recently granted UNESCO World Heritage status, the city of Rabat is yours to discover! Named after the Arabic word ‘ribaat’ meaning ‘fortified place’, the capital of Morocco has a long and rich history behind it. Begin your tour at the medina, where you will find the Hassan tower, an unfinished minaret from the time of Yaqub al Mansur, who wished to build the largest mosque in Rabat. An important figure in the construction of Rabat, the city walls and restored Kasbah of the Udayas on your itinerary, stand testimony to Mansur’s efforts. Next, explore the Chellah, also the ruined Roman city of Sala, which boasts ancient monuments and buildings. Also a fortified Muslim necropolis where the Merenid dynasty are buried, the Chellah is one of the best archaeological sites of modern day Morocco. (Half Day; Time of Day: Morning and Afternoon; Duration: 2-3 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy)

English Speaking Tour Manager

Hotel Options

Riad Kalaa – Opt 1

Room	Standard Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

Villa Mandarine – Opt 2

Room	Classic Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

Day 2 - 4

Your chauffeur will drive you from Rabat to Chefchaouen in a private vehicle (Duration: 4 hrs)

Chefchaouen

2 Nights

Traditional Moroccan and Andalusian flavors rise from the kitchens of this extremely pretty highland village, painted with dreamy turquoise walls and red-tiled roofs.

Included Activities

Medina Magic in Chefchaouen
Roam the old medina of Chefchaouen, a city tucked away in the Rif Mountains. Originally a fortress town, Chefchaouen is now a thriving tourist hub, although quite different and relaxed compared to other tourist centers such as Marrakech and Fez. Observe how its houses and buildings are painted in cool blue hues, a facet of the city that has given it a distinctive look and feel and also elicited much traveler interest. Walk through the narrow winding alleys of the medina, surrounding yourself in blue. Pass by little cafes and restaurants, and shops selling various trinkets. If you are an early riser, do remember that mornings between 7 and 8 am is a great time to appreciate the beautiful effect of the sunlight on the blue walls, and to take in the quiet appeal of the medina before the crowds set in. (Half Day; Morning /Evening Activity; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy).

English Speaking Tour Manager

Hotel Options

Riad Darechchaouen – Opt 1

Room	Standard Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Guest house

Lina Ryad & Spa – Opt 2

Room	Suite
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Heritage

Day 4 - 7

Your chauffeur will drive you from Chefchaouen to Fes in a private vehicle (Duration: 4 hrs)

Fes

3 Nights

Fes, or Fez, the grandest royal city created by Morocco’s early Muslim rulers in the 9th century, is the country’s cultural capital and spiritual heart.

Included Activities

Cultural Delights of Meknes
Leave the hectic popularity of Fez behind for the quieter but equally precious cultural attractions of Meknes. Explore the historical grandeur of the former capital city of Morocco in the arches and columns of Bab El Mansour, the monumental gate adorned with wood carvings and detailed zellige tile work. Marvel at the splendor of the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the founding Sultan of this imperial city and admire the nearby Heri es-Souani which used to house the royal granary and stables. Explore the remains of fortifications which stand testimony to the city’s former glory and meticulous planning. Enjoy the local vibe with a stroll through the Place Hedim where historic buildings and narrow alleys exude as much atmosphere as its bustling shops and eateries. (Half Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Time: Morning/Evening; Duration: 4-5 hrs; Fitness level: Easy)

Fes Fantastic Heritage Tour
Traverse through 1,300 years of Moroccan heritage as your guide leads you across the most beautiful medina in Morocco. In the beautiful city of Fes, gaze in awe at the exquisite examples of Islamic art and architecture. Walk through the narrow streets flanked on either side by bustling souks occupied by tailors, artists, and traders selling a variety of wares. Saunter past cafes that lead to outdoor markets, the covered bazaar, and quiet squares where you can spot children at play and donkeys at work transporting supplies. The world’s largest car-free urban space and a prominent UNESCO World Heritage site, the medina is where you will find a large number of spectacular mosques, tanneries, and fountains. Accompany your guide into some of the mosques that permit non-Muslims to enter, so you can get a closer look at the intricate stucco and tile work inside. Explore the new medina, the medersa or Islamic educational institute, and the iconic Bab Boujloud or Blue Gate, which is a great place to indulge in people watching! Stop by the picturesque fountain at Place Nejjarine before you make your way to the mellah (Jewish quarter) for a glimpse into the city’s Jewish heritage. Browse through some of the souks of Fes before you decide to call it a day. (Full Day; Time of Day: Morning; Duration: 6 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please note that non-Muslims are not allowed insides many of the mosques.)

English Speaking Tour Manager

Hotel Options

La Maison Bleue – Opt 1

Room	Suite
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

Karawan Riad – Opt 2

Room	Suite Suhaili Lawane
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Heritage

Day 7 - 9

Your chauffeur will drive you from Fes to Merzouga in a private vehicle (Duration: 7 hrs)

Merzouga

2 Nights

Sitting on the edge of Erg Chebbi, a network of sand dunes that is 3 miles wide and 31 miles long, the remote hamlet of Merzouga is the ideal gateway for camel safaris in the dunes.

Included Activities

Camel Trekking in Merzouga
Ride across sandy dunes on the mighty camel, which has been the backbone of desert life for thousands of years! These docile creatures used to ferry cargo from sub-Saharan Africa to the trading ports of the Mediterranean coast. Today, they are your reliable modes of transport across all terrains to get around Erg Chebbi. It might take a little getting used to, but soon you’ll be enjoying your leisurely ride as you traverse the grand, sprawling desert on camelback. Camel trekking in Merzouga is an essential activity for your Moroccan desert adventure! (Half Day; Time of Day: Morning/Afternoon; Duration: 3 hrs (including travel to activity); Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate)

The Nomad Life of Merzouga
Enjoy lunch or tea with the local Berber people of Merzouga, who are renowned for their warmth and hospitality. Visit a local family and interact with members of this traditional community on their home turf. Learn more about the unique and ancient Berber culture through your interaction with villagers. Your guide would be happy to familiarize you with Berber etiquette and cultural nuances so that you can truly make the most of the experience. (Half Day; Time of Day: Morning/Evening; Duration: 3 hrs (including travel to activity); Private Transfers; Fitness Level: Moderate)

Desert Rose: Half Day at Gorges du Dadès
Discover the ruggedly beautiful landscape of the Dadès Gorges on this exciting day trip, with a detour to a valley of roses, no less! On your way go off the grid to discover an idyllic world of palm tree shaded kasbahs. As you return to the main highway, drive through an enchanting valley of roses that hugs the beautiful Dadès River. This is the kingdom of the Dadès River, a land of striking gorges and ravines created by the swift flowing river water on its way from the Atlas Mountains down to the edge of the Sahara. Stop by at Kela’a M’gouna to visit a local factory for rose-based personal care products. Sample the fragrant rose waters, creams and cosmetics and learn all about the popular Rose Festival celebrated in May. Wind your way along hilly loops and bends skirted by highland rivers and wayside villages, as you admire the spectacular landscape of rocky outcrops and dusty canyons surrounding you. Make a pit stop for refreshments and share a cup of tea with your local Berber hosts, as you learn about their ancient nomadic way of life and soak in the rugged landscapes around you. (Half Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy).

Hotel Options

Imperial Glory Lodges – Opt 1

Room	Tent
Meals
Style	Lodge

Desert Luxury Camp – Opt 2

Room	Main Camp
Meals	Half Board (Breakfast and Dinner)
Style	Camp

Day 9 - 10

Your chauffeur will drive you from Merzouga to Ouarzazate in a private vehicle (Duration: 5 hrs)

Ouarzazate

1 Night

Ouarzazate is known as a Gateway to the Sahara Desert. Ouarzazate boasts a rich history of being the converging point for African traders in the past who sought to reach the northern cities in Morocco and Europe.

Included Activities

Desert Splendors of Ait Benhadou
The spectacular site of Ait-Ben-Haddou is yours to discover on this half day trip to a UNESCO World Heritage landmark. Located in the southern foothills of the High Atlas in the province of Ouarzazate, the historic structure of Ait-Ben-Haddou is built as a ksar, a pre-Saharan, fortified group of dwellings native to southern Morocco. Thread your way through the red mud houses that get its vivid hue from dark red pisé and some of which still sport traditional decorations. Soak in the exotic setting which has made many a Hollywood movie come alive and is best captured by your camera under the slanting rays of the sun. (Half Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Time: Morning/Evening; Duration: 4-5 hrs; Fitness level: Easy)

Hotel Options

Riad Ksar Ighnda – Opt 1

Room	Standard Room
Meals	Half Board (Breakfast and Dinner)
Style	Boutique

Le Berbere Palace – Opt 2

Room	Superior Room
Meals	Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Style	Guest house

Day 10 - 12

Your chauffeur will drive you from Ouarzazate to High Atlas Mountains in a private vehicle (Duration: 5 hrs)

High Atlas Mountains

2 Nights

High Atlas mountain range of Morocco, invites you on an exciting trekking vacation. The region offers you a visual treat with the majestic countryside dotted with walnut and cherry trees stretching as far as the eye can see.

Destination High Atlas Mountains in Morocco

Included Activities

Trekking up to a mountain pass in the Atlas Mountains
Go on a trek up to a panoramic mountain pass in the area of Toubkal, the highest peak of the great Atlas Mountains (4.167 m). Begin from Imlil, a mountain retreat perched on a hilltop. Trek for about two hours, following a steep mule trail, till you reach the Tizi M’zik mountain pass (2.489m). Take as many breaks as you wish to rest along the way and to enjoy the glorious views. See the small villages on the sloping hillsides, near the agricultural terraces and fruit orchards – indicators of the community of Berber people living in the area. Enjoy the scent of the surrounding juniper forests, the beauty of the mountains and the spectacular views of the Imlil and Azadane valleys as you reach Tizi M’zik mountain pass. (Full Day; 5-6 hours total trekking time; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate, as it involves trekking through a short but steep trail).

Hotel Options

Kasbah du Toubkal – Opt 1

Room	Standard Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Guest house

Kasbah Bab Ourika – Opt 2

Room	Superior Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

Day 12 - 15

You will be transferred from your hotel to Marrakech in a private vehicle

Marrakesh

3 Nights

Marrakech, with its aura of mystery and exoticism, begs to be explored! From its humble origins as a garrison of the Almoravid desert warriors, Marrakech today is a vibrant city where modernity meets tradition.

Included Activities

Magical Marrakech Discovery
Set out with your private guide to unravel the wonders of the red city! With its exoticism and aura of mystery, Marrakech enjoys legendary status as a tourist attraction. It has the unique distinction of being the city after which the country is named. On this tour, visit the famous Koutoubia Mosque dating back to the 12th century which is also the largest in the city. Listen to your local expert explain the origins of this mosque and its prominent minaret. Afterwards, head over to the Saadian Tombs situated near the Kasbah Mosque. Gaze in wonder at the Italian carrara marble used across the mausoleum. Next, explore the 19th century El Bahia Palace featuring a blend of Islamic and Moroccan styles of architecture. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the souks at the heart of the old city that offer a variety of wares for visitors to browse through. (Full Day; Time of Day: Morning; Duration: 7 hrs; Private Activity; Fixed Time; Fitness Level: Easy;)

English Speaking Local Guide

Hotel Options

Dar Baraka & Karam – Opt 1

Room	Standard Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

Riad Adore – Opt 2

Room	Deluxe Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

Day 15 - 17

You will be transferred from Marrakech to your hotel in Essaouira in a private vehicle (3 hrs)

Essaouira

2 Nights

Essaouira, a picturesque coastal town overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, is yours to discover. This easygoing fishing port dating back to the 17th century is where Orson Wells filmed Othello!

Hotel Options

Madada Mogador – Opt 1

Room	Standard Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

Heure Bleue Palais – Opt 2

Room	Classic Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

You will be transferred from Essaouira to Marrakech in a private vehicle (3 hrs)

International Departure

Price & Inclusions

Option 1 From $ 5,090 /person
Option 2 From $ 6,390 /person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes

Accommodation in one double room for 17 days / 16 nights.
Meals as indicated
All activities as listed :
- Rabat: Rabat’s City Delights
- Rabat: English Speaking Tour Manager
- Chefchaouen: Medina Magic in Chefchaouen
- Chefchaouen: English Speaking Tour Manager
- Fes: Cultural Delights of Meknes
- Fes: Fes Fantastic Heritage Tour
- Fes: English Speaking Tour Manager
- Merzouga: Camel Trekking in Merzouga
- Merzouga: The Nomad Life of Merzouga
- Merzouga: Desert Rose: Half Day at Gorges du Dadès
- Ouarzazate: Desert Splendors of Ait Benhadou
- High Atlas Mountains:: Trekking up to a mountain pass in the Atlas Mountains
- Marrakesh: Magical Marrakech Discovery
- Marrakesh: English Speaking Local Guide
A high-quality air conditioned vehicle with chauffeur for the activities specified in the itinerary
All transfers as indicated above
Your Trip Coordinator: a 24/7 point of contact, supporting you during your trip
Fees and taxes

Not Included

Tips, additional meals and personal expenses
Visa fees
Travel, health and cancellation insurance
International airfare (from your home country to your destination and return), unless specified under the trip inclusions above

Morocco : Souks, Spices and the Sahara

Itinerary Summary

Ideal For

Itinerary Details

Casablanca

Rabat

Chefchaouen

Fes

Merzouga

Ouarzazate

High Atlas Mountains

Marrakesh

Essaouira

Price & Inclusions

Price Includes

Not Included