Berber Heartlands

After breakfast, you will leave Casablanca and drive north along the coast to Rabat, the capital of Morocco and an Imperial city. Explore the old quarter known as the Kasbah des Oudaias. Afterwards, visit the minaret of the Hassan Mosque and the mausoleums of Morocco’s two late kings.

Feel free to choose a restaurant for lunch. As the capital of Morocco, Rabat offers a wide variety of dining options.

After lunch and a short rest, continue your transfer to Tangier, a vibrant port city in northern Morocco. Tangier is a captivating blend of cultures and history, situated where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. It has been a hub for traders, artists, and adventurers for centuries. The city boasts a rich tapestry of Moroccan, European, and African influences, visible in its architecture, cuisine, and lively medina. Known for its strategic location, Tangier has long been a gateway between Africa and Europe, drawing visitors with its stunning views, bustling markets, and fascinating historical sites, such as the Kasbah and the Caves of Hercules.

With your guide, you will explore the Cave of Hercules, the Kasbah, the tangle of the Medina, and, of course, the Souk.

Overnight in Tangier.

Meals

N/A

Accommodation

Overnight Odyssee Center Hotel or similar

Services

Airport transfer

This morning, explore the old quarter known as the Kasbah des Oudaias. Afterwards, visit the minaret of the Hassan Mosque and the two late kings of Morocco’s Mausoleums. You will also visit the Spanish Mosque before continuing to Tangier where you will explore Hercules cave, the Kasbah, the tangle of the Medina and of course, the Souk.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Overnight Palais Zahia or similar

Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide

Sightseeing: Kasbah des Oudaias, Minaret of the Hassan Mosque, Mausoleums, Spanish Mosque, Hercules cave, the Kasbah, the tangle of the Medina and Tangier Souk.

Travel time and distance

Rabat to Tangier: Approx. 252km/ 3hrs drive

City Tour: Approx. 50km/ 2 hrs drive

Arrive Chefchaouen

Continue north to the city of Chefchaouen, locally known as the Blue Pearl. Hidden high up in the Rif Mountains of northeastern Morocco, Chefchaouen is a relatively large historical town known for the striking, variously-hued blue-washed buildings of its picturesque Medina. Wander along narrow, cobblestone streets lined with leather and weaving workshops and an array of historical monuments. Must-see attractions include the town’s waterfall which lies to the east of the Medina; the ruins of an old mosque on a hill behind the waterfall; and the shady main square of Uta el-Hammam, which is home to the red-walled kasbah, a 15th-century fortress and dungeon displaying ethnographic and art exhibits. Explore this beautiful Andalusian town. Its medina has been lovingly cared for with striking blue and whitewashed houses and artistic doorways. Most of Chefchaouen was recreated by Andalusian refugees escaping the Reconquista, so you might feel like you’re in the hills of Spain while exploring its streets. 

Kasbahs, Markets, and Medina Charm

Enjoy the sights in the main square with the Kasbah (built back in the 18th century), central mosque and cafes with authentic Moroccan-style menus. The market is a mix of traditional Moroccan and tourist souvenirs, very busy but worth a visit. The town is easy to explore and the old Kasbah is worth a visit. Built by Moulay Ismail, it is now practically a ruin, and next to it is the Great Mosque. Although the medina is small, walk on to the main square and the souks, where women wearing Hayek (traditional veils) sell an array of local goods. If you head on to the Jewish quarter behind the jewellery souk, you will feel the difference between here and the main Arabic feel of the town.

Rif Mountains

You will also enjoy exploring the Rif Mountains. The first and lowest of the mountain ranges that ripple south through Morocco, make perfect trekking country. Take in the magnificent ranges, gorges and valleys, cloaked in forests of cedar, cork oak and fir. Unlike the extremely popular Atlas Mountains, there are no deep, well-worn trails or tourists – these mountains offer you a unique, sprawling look at undiscovered terrain. Situated close to villages and cities, you can still venture far away without leaving behind the comforts of Moroccan culture and hospitality. Overlooking the entire Chefchaouen town on the Rif mountains, enjoy the peaceful vibe of white and blue. Visit the little Spanish church that you saw when you entered Chefchaouen. You are also likely to meet troupes of Barbary apes around the edge of Talassemtane National Park. (Hiking shoes or sneakers are recommended)

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Overnight Vancii Hotel or similar

Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide

Travel time and distance

Tangier to Chefchaouen: Approx. 112km/ 2.25 hrs drive

Return trip to Talassemtane National Park: Approx: 80km/  2 hrs drive

Ruins of Volubilis

Get into your comfy shoes, grab a bottle of water, put on your sunscreen and get ready for an outdoorsy day full of exciting historical sites. After breakfast, you will head to the city to the ruins of Volubilis. Take a guided tour of The Mauritanian capital, founded in the 3rd century B.C., the Roman ruins of Volubilis. This site became an important outpost of the Roman Empire and was graced with many fine buildings. Extensive remains of these survive in the archaeological site, located in a fertile agricultural area. Afterwards, head to the spiritual capital of Morocco, Fes.

Arrive Fes

Fes is Morocco’s second-largest city and the country’s former capital. It is an exotic mix of Arabic architecture, ancient alleyways, calls to prayer and colourful markets; all mixed in with a good dose of modern culture. Home to the venerated Karaouine Mosque, which dates back to 859 AD and incorporates an Islamic university, it is also home to the country’s most hallowed shrine, the Zaouia Moulay Idriss II. Fes is regarded as the spiritual seat of Morocco. Those with a penchant for shopping can browse the mesmerising colourful markets selling an exquisite array of silver, leather and other handicrafts up for grabs.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

2 nights Riad El Yacout or similar

Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide

Travel time and distance

Chefchaouen to Volubilis: Approx. 164km/ 3 hrs

Volubilis to Fes: Approx. 95km/ 1.5 hrs

Explore the spiritual and cultural capital of the kingdom of Morocco on a guided tour. See the architectural treasures of the Medina including The famous Fes tanneries. Visit ancient buildings such as Mederssa El Attarine, and the University and Mosque of Karaouine. Admire the harmonious Mosaic details that adorn these magnificent buildings. Learn about traditional artisan work at the Nejjarine

Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts. See where artisans employ techniques passed down from generation to generation in order to make tools, carpets, furniture, and musical instruments, in the afternoon feel free to relax at your beautiful Riad (which means Mansion in Arabic) away from the buzz of the busy city.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Riad El Yacout or similar

Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide

Fes City Tour: the Medina and Fes tanneries, Mederssa El Attarine, University and Mosque of Karaouine, Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts.

Depart Fes early this morning and journey into the Middle Atlas Mountains. Your first stop will be Bhalil Village, set on the side of a hill 6 km northwest of Sefrou. Bhalil is a quiet town, often overlooked by travellers exploring northern Morocco. This small village is renowned for its unique cave houses. Your personal guide will walk you through the village, introducing you to locals and showcasing the rich collection of “Jellaba” (Moroccan traditional clothes) buttons, for which Bhalil is famous.

Your next destination is Midelt, known as the Apple City of Morocco. The large apple sculpture at the city centre is its iconic landmark, and the delicious apples from Midelt are celebrated across the country. Enjoy lunch in Midelt, where the special “Mountain fish” cuisine is highly recommended.

After lunch, continue your drive to Erfoud, the “Fossil City,” also known as the “Gateway to the Desert.” Erfoud is a paradise for fossil hunters, particularly known for the discovery of unique fossilised species, including trilobites. The region’s landscape and geology are strikingly similar to certain areas on Mars, making it a valuable site for Mars analogue research. From Erfoud, you will transfer to Merzouga. Overnight in a desert riad as you prepare for tomorrow’s full desert exploration.

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation

Overnight: Riad Madu Hotel or similar

Travel time and distance

Fes to Bhalil: Approx. 27 km / 30 mins drive

Bhalil to Midelt: Approx. 198 km / 3.5 hrs drive

Midelt to Erfoud: Approx. 208 km / 3.5 hrs drive

Erfoud to Merzouga: Approx. 54.6 km / 50 mins drive

Rise early at around 7:00 am, where your 4×4 driver will be waiting at reception. Embark on a sunrise dune exploration, climbing a towering dune to witness the first rays of sunlight illuminating the golden sands. After this breathtaking experience, return to the camp for breakfast and a brief rest.

Ancient Stone Mine and Caravanserai Ruins

Begin your full-day desert adventure with a visit to an ancient stone mine. Historically, desert inhabitants used black stone powder for make-up, beauty, and protection against the wind. Drive through the ruins of an ancient caravanserai on the way to Timbuktu, the legendary “Land of Gold.” From a nearby hill, enjoy sweeping views of the endless desert.

Visit to Khamlia

Continue your journey to Khamlia, known as the birthplace of the traditional Gnawa music. You’ve likely encountered this soulful music, characterised by rhythmic harp and metal instruments, during your time in Morocco. The guide will share fascinating stories about the origins and significance of Gnawa music.

Traditional Berber Lunch and Desert Garden Tour

For lunch, savour a traditional “Berber Pizza” before taking a short nap. In the afternoon, explore a desert garden with your guide. This garden features an ingenious irrigation system that showcases an interesting method of sustaining plant life in the harsh desert environment.

After a day full of exploration, return to your desert camp for an overnight stay.

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation

Overnight in Riad Madu luxury camp (tent) or similar

Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide

After breakfast this morning, take a short rest or climb the dunes once more to bid farewell to the Grand Sahara. The journey begins with a stop at the Todra Gorges, a stunning series of limestone river canyons located in the eastern High Atlas Mountains near Tinerhir. These gorges, carved by the Todgha and Dades Rivers, feature cliff walls that reach up to 400 metres (1,312 ft) in some places, creating a breathtaking landscape.

Boumalne Dades

Next, transfer to Boumalne Dades, situated in southeast Morocco’s Tinghir Province at 1500 metres above sea level. This enchanting destination, nestled between rugged red cliffs, palm oases, and fields of crimson wildflowers, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Enjoy lunch here and explore the city’s traditional art, music, and adobe architecture, which have remained virtually intact over the centuries.

Town of Skoura

The day’s final destination is the hidden Oasis town of Skoura. Stepping into Skoura feels like stepping back in time, with its single small supermarket and a landscape where palm trees, desert, and snowy mountains come together to create a unique setting.

Take a guided tour of this tranquil oasis before returning to your Kasbah hotel for dinner and a well-deserved rest. Please note that due to the local network, WiFi signal strength may be limited in your room.

Meals

N/A

Accommodation

Overnight in Kasbah Ait ben Damiette or similar

Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide

Travel time and distance

Grand Sahara to Todra gorges: Approx. 194km/ 3hrs drive

Todra gorges to Boumalne Dades: Approx. 54km/ 1hr drive

Boumalne dades to Skoura: Approx. 79km/ 1hr 20mins drive

Today, bid farewell to the enchanting town of Skoura and embark on a journey through the Atlas Mountains via the Tiz n’Tichka Pass. Continue onwards to the village of Imlil, where you will begin a light trek from Imlil (1,740m) towards Tamatert, the location of your charming auberge. After checking in, your guide will lead you on a hike to the local village of Around and the surrounding douars. Take in the breathtaking views of the High Atlas Mountains (1,900m) and immerse yourself in the authentic, traditional Berber culture.

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation

Overnight in Dar Imlil or similar

Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide

Travel time and distance

Walking Distance: Approximately 2-4kms|

Walking Time: Approximately 1hr

Skoura to Tiz n Tichka Pass to  Ourika Village to Imlil: Approx. 304km/ 5hrs drive

Spend a leisurely day amidst the serene mountain surroundings. Whether you choose to sit in the yard or on the balcony, you can unwind while enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature. Your guide and driver are at your disposal, so if you need anything, please don’t hesitate to ask the hotel reception.

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner 

Accommodation

Overnight in Dar Imlil or similar

Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide

Ouirgane

After breakfast, depart for a Berber village called Ouirgane. Crossing a vibrant green valley that stays fresh and lush even during the hottest days of the summer, this village is situated in a scenic valley at 1000 metres above sea level in the High Atlas Mountains. You will have the opportunity to stop in many picturesque villages along the way such as Ouaousaft, Asni, before you finally reach the Ouirgane Lake! Enjoy exploring this beautiful village.

Ochre City of Marrakech

Later on in the afternoon, you will be transferred to the ochre city of Marrakech, a colourful melting pot where European modernity is mixed with ancient vibes. The bustling UNESCO-listed city of Marrakesh is an enchanting travel destination in Morocco. It’s easy to lose all sense of time in Marrakech, with its maze of narrow alleyways scattered with donkey carts, snake charmers, castanetists, acrobats, storytellers, dancers, water-sellers and potion vendors to entertain. If you don’t find all of these as you journey through the winding streets of the ‘Red City’, you will be sure to find them and much, much more at its famous markets. Marrakesh is home to the largest traditional Berber market in Morocco and one of the busiest squares in the world, known as Djemaa el Fna which is where you will enjoy dinner this evening.

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation

2 nights Riad Palais Des Princesses or similar

Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide

Travel time and distance

Imlil – Marrakesh: Approx. 67km/  2 hrs drive

Cooking Class at La Maison Arabe

After breakfast, you will head to the elegant restaurant at La Maison Arabe where you will have a cooking class and learn to prepare your first Moroccan meal. With the help of a local chef, prepare your lunch.

Medina

After lunch, you will have a guided visit to the Medina starting from Le Jardin Secret which dates back to the Saadian dynasty more than 400 years ago and has been the home of some of Morocco and Marrakech’s most important political figures. Discover its gardens and buildings, which are outstanding examples of Islamic art and architecture.

The Souks and Spice Markets

Next, you will wind back through the narrow streets of the Medina through souks and spice Markets where women sell many organic goodies from organic make-up products to handmade jewellery and hats. Continue to the Bahia Palace then to the Koutoubia Mosque and its minaret.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Riad Palais Des Princesses or similar

Services

Private vehicle with English-speaking guide

La Maison Arabe cooking class

Travel time and distance

La Maison Arabe to Le Jardin Secret: Approx: 1.2 km/ 5 mins drive or 15 mins walk

Le Jardin Secret to Souks and Spice Markets Medina: Approx. 0.5 km/ 5 mins drive or 15 mins walk

Souks and Spice Markets Medina to Bahia Palace: Approx. 1 km/ 10 mins walk

Bahia Palace to Koutoubia Mosque: Approx. 1.3 km/ 10 mins by car or 15 mins walk

Following breakfast, today is at leisure until it is time for your transfer to the airport for your onward departure.

Meals

Breakfast

Services

Airport transfer