Eleven days, smartly built: from Casablanca's coastline to Rabat's royal city, north to Chefchaouen's blue-washed lanes, then south through Fez's ancient medina and the alpine calm of the Middle Atlas toward the Sahara. Two nights around Merzouga's Erg Chebbi dunes sit at the center, followed by Todra Gorge, the Dades Valley, and the kasbah of Ait Benhaddou on the way to Marrakech.
Private, unhurried, and genuinely personal - this is Morocco's full sweep of culture, desert, and imperial history, arranged around how you actually want to travel.
The route runs from Casablanca and Rabat to Chefchaouen, then via Volubilis and Meknes to Fez for a full guided day in its medina. From there, Ifrane and the Ziz Valley lead to a sunset camel trek and two nights around Merzouga, including a look at the Saharan villages of Khamlia and Hassi El-Bied, before Todra Gorge, the Dades Valley, and Ait Benhaddou carry you to a guided day in Marrakech ahead of departure.
What's included:
Not included: lunches, dinners, and drinks except where specified above; attraction entrance fees; and gratuities.
• Arrive at Casablanca Airport or be picked up from your hotel. Begin your Moroccan adventure with a comfortable transfer in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with your dedicated driver.
• Explore Casablanca, visiting the iconic Hassan II Mosque, a stunning cultural masterpiece of Islamic architecture.
• Journey to Rabat, Morocco's capital. Discover the historical Hassan Tower, the picturesque Kasbah of the Oudayas, the ancient ruins of Chellah, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.
• Check into your charming premium accommodation in Rabat for a relaxing overnight stay.
• Enjoy a rich breakfast at your accommodation in Rabat.
• Set off on a scenic drive to Chefchaouen, the enchanting "Blue City" nestled in the Rif Mountains.
• Enjoy a leisurely lunch en route. Arrive in Chefchaouen and have a free afternoon to explore the relaxed town at your own pace.
• Check into your authentic traveler’s choice Moroccan riad or hotel in Chefchaouen.
• After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Chefchaouen to uncover the town’s hidden gems. Wander through the captivating blue-washed streets, admire the unique Spanish-Moorish architecture, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
• Visit the Spanish Mosque built by the Spaniards in the 1920s but never used and the Ras El-Ma river for panoramic views. Explore Chefchaouen’s cozy medina and browse local handicrafts.
• Savor a meal at a restaurant suggested by your driver (optional). The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
• Enjoy breakfast at your top-rated traveler’s choice accommodation in Chefchaouen.
• Depart for Volubilis, the ancient Roman city. Explore the well-preserved ruins and admire the stunning mosaics.
• Continue to Meknes, another imperial city. Visit the impressive Bab El Mansour gate, Place El Hedim, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and other key sites.
• Continue your scenic journey to Fes, making occasional stops at picturesque viewpoints to fully immerse yourself in Morocco’s breathtaking landscapes and capture stunning travel moments.
• Check into your charming premium accommodation in Fez and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant recommended by our driver, if you wish.
• Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at your riad or hotel in Fes.
• Embark on a guided tour of the Fes Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, exploring its ancient ramparts and medieval tanneries showcasing exquisite leather craftsmanship, and the art of making traditional pottery.
• Discover historic landmarks, including Al-Karaouine University, one of the world's oldest universities, the Merenid Tombs, and the Madrasa Bou Inania, and the gates of the royal palace.
• Immerse yourself in the vibrant scenes of the lively and colorful souk with our expert local guide. Savor a delicious dinner at one of the restaurants recommended by our driver, if you wish.
• Retreat to your authentic Moroccan accommodation for a peaceful evening.
• Enjoy a delicious breakfast and depart from Fez.
• Drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, Stop in Ifrane, often called the 'Switzerland of Morocco,' known for its alpine-style architecture and scenic mountain charm.
• Visit the cedar forests along the way to see playful Barbary macaques, adding a wildlife touch to your Morocco experience.
• Continue through Midelt, known for its apple orchards. Traverse the scenic Ziz Valley, with its dramatic cliffs and palm oases.
• Arrive in Erfoud, known for its fossil industry. Visit a fossil museum and workshop.
• Continue to Merzouga and embark on a sunset camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes to reach your luxury desert camp.
• Savor an authentic Berber-Saharan dining experience, accompanied by live nomadic music, and unwind in a luxury desert camp under a breathtaking star-lit sky.
• Your private glamping tent is fully equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a perfect blend of comfort and adventure in Morocco’s Sahara Desert.
• Begin Day 7 with a delicious breakfast at your luxurious desert camp, nestled amidst the majestic Sahara Dunes.
• Then, with our driver, explore the nearby dunes bordering Algeria, where the stark beauty of black volcanic rocks awaits, creating a breathtaking landscape.
• Pass by quaint Saharan villages such as Khamlia and Hassi El-Bied and encounter nomadic families along the way, gaining insights into their timeless lifestyle.
• Enjoy lunch at your leisure at a local restaurant and indulge in traditional Saharan mint tea, immersing yourself in the spiritual sounds of Gnawa music.
• Experience a rich cultural exploration of Merzouga through this desert tour. Conclude the day with a drive to the authentic riad or hotel in the desert, where the changing hues of the sands come alive with the setting sun.
• Enjoy an overnight stay in a highly rated riad or hotel in the desert of Merzouga, including a delectable dinner, and a restful night's sleep.
• Begin your day with a delightful breakfast amidst the vast desert landscape at your riad.
• Enjoy the mesmerizing sunrise in Merzouga. Head towards Rissani, and then visit The mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif who is the founder of the Alawite dynasty.
• Visit the traditional Sahara souks in Rissani. Journey through the scenic landscapes of the Sahara.
• Visit the inspiring Todra Gorge, the tallest canyon in Morocco with its towering cliffs. Proceed to Dades Gorges and savor a leisurely lunch at a charming roadside spot.
• Discover lush palm groves and charming Berber villages, marveling at unique rock formations.
• Conclude your journey with a delicious dinner at your authentic traveler’s choice accommodation in Dades Valley, followed by a peaceful night’s rest within nature.
• After breakfast, drive along the scenic Dades Valley. Visit the "Valley of Roses" near Kalaat M'Gouna and learn about rose water production.
• Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Africa" Visit the Atlas Film Studios and immerse yourself in the magic of the silver screen (optional).
• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified Kasbah known for its exotic allure and cinematic significance.
• Drive over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka pass offering panoramic breathtaking views. Arrive in Marrakech.
• Check into your Top-rated riad/hotel.
• Begin your day with a delightful breakfast in your Marrakech accommodation.
• Embark on a guided tour led by a professional, multilingual local guide, exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
• Visit Djama El Fna Square, the bustling old town teeming with energy and unique colorful souks offering spices and leather goods.
• Explore the ancient colorful souks. Discover the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the grand Medersa Ben Youssef, uncovering Marrakech’s rich history.
• Enjoy a delicious lunch at your leisure in the heart of the Medina before diving into the famous souks.
• Witness the impressive Koutoubia Mosque with its towering minaret. (Optional: Visit to Majorelle Gardens).
• Enjoy a delicious meal in one of the restaurants recommended by our driver, if you wish.
• Retire to your authentic Moroccan accommodation for a peaceful night’s sleep.
• Enjoy a delightful breakfast in your authentic accommodation in Marrakech.
• Marvel for a seamless private transfer to Casablanca Airport or any preferred location in Casablanca, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey for guests returning to the city.
