Itinerary
Welcome to the Enchanting Western Coast of Morocco! Begin your journey by arriving in Casablanca and settling into your hotel. Embrace the coastal ambiance as you take a leisurely stroll along the Boulevard de la Corniche, a picturesque beach promenade that stretches alongside the Atlantic Ocean. Known as Morocco's Miami, this vibrant area offers stunning views and a lively atmosphere. Make your way to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, an architectural masterpiece that stands proudly overlooking the ocean. While tours of the mosque's interior are available only in the morning, seize the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunset casting its golden hues upon this remarkable structure. For a touch of nostalgia, indulge in a delightful dining experience at Rick's Café, a renowned establishment meticulously recreated to capture the essence of the iconic bar from the classic movie, Casablanca. Immerse yourself in the charm of this coastal city as you embark on an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.
Embark on a journey through time as you explore the historical treasures of Morocco. Begin your day by visiting the awe-inspiring Roman ruins of Volubilis. Wander through this ancient archaeological site, marveling at the remarkably preserved mosaics, towering columns, and remnants of a once-thriving civilization. Let the echoes of the past transport you to a different era.
Continue your adventure to Meknes, one of Morocco's imperial cities. Admire the grandeur of Bab Mansour, an imposing gate that welcomes you to the city. Dive into the rich history as you explore the palaces, mosques, and vibrant markets of Meknes. Allow yourself to be captivated by the architectural splendor and the stories of an era steeped in royalty.
Conclude your day in Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage site and another imperial city renowned for its cultural significance. Lose yourself in the maze-like streets of the medina, the largest car-free urban area in the world. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, where craftsmen practice their ancient trades, and the scent of exotic spices lingers in the air. Discover the intricate beauty of the mosques, madrasas, and historic landmarks grace this captivating city.
As the day comes to a close, find tranquility in a traditional riad, a Moroccan-style guesthouse. Indulge in the flavors of Moroccan cuisine, savoring the aromatic spices and delightful dishes that reflect the country's rich culinary heritage. Reflect on the wonders you've encountered, the stories you've heard, and anticipate the adventures that await in the days to come, as you continue to unravel the captivating tapestry of Morocco's past and present.
Embrace the cultural richness of Fes, the oldest of Morocco's Imperial Cities, on your third day. Begin your exploration by venturing into the medieval medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets, where vibrant souks and bustling markets tempt you with their array of colors, scents, and crafts.
A highlight of your visit is the Chouara Tannery. From a vantage point, observe the ancient tanning techniques still employed today. Marvel at the sight of the dye-filled stone pots and the skilled artisans diligently working to produce vibrant leather products.
Continue your journey through the medina, discovering architectural marvels like the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University. Admire the intricate tilework and carved woodwork that adorn these historical sites, transporting you to a bygone era.
Indulge your taste buds in the flavors of Fes by sampling traditional Moroccan cuisine. Let the local culinary delights tantalize your palate from aromatic tagines to refreshing mint tea.
As the day comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on the enchanting experiences and cultural immersion Fes has offered. Immerse yourself further in the vibrant ambiance of the city or seek solace in a charming riad, where you can unwind and absorb this imperial gem's rich history and unique atmosphere.
On the fourth day, after breakfast, prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you travel from Fez towards the enchanting Sahara Desert. Your journey takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Middle Atlas region, offering stunning views and cultural encounters along the way.
When you leave Fez, you will marvel at the stunning landscape of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Pass through charming Berber villages set amid towering peaks and green valleys. Immerse yourself in the traditional lifestyle as you interact with friendly locals and gain an insight into their rich cultural heritage.
Continue your journey towards Erfoud, a city known for its fossil mines and unique geological formations. Explore the fascinating world of paleontology and witness the intricate craftsmanship of local artisans who transform these ancient treasures into magnificent works of art.
As you move further into the desert, the golden dunes of Merzouga begin to appear on the horizon. Get ready for an amazing experience as you embark on a camel ride into the heart of the Sahara Desert. Traverse the ever-changing sands, guided by experienced desert Bedouins who will share their knowledge and stories about this magnificent landscape.
When you arrive at your desert camp, watch the stunning sunset paint the sand dunes in vibrant colours. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the starlit sky, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of Berber music.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the desert night, admiring the countless stars that adorn the vast expanse above you. Let the serenity and beauty of the Sahara desert leave an indelible mark on your soul, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Day 4 marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey into the heart of the desert, where natural wonders and cultural encounters await. Prepare to be amazed by the enchanting landscapes and hospitality of the desert people as you continue to explore Morocco's diverse and captivating landscape.
Start your day by watching the magical sunrise over the desert sand dunes. Rise early and venture to a lookout point where you can witness the stunning sight of the sun casting its golden rays over the vast desert landscape. Capture the magical moment as the dunes come alive with a warm glow.
After leaving the dunes, head to Al-Khamsiyya, a traditional desert village with a rich cultural heritage. Originally from Mali, the Khemelia people have preserved their unique traditions and music.
Continue west, past the dramatic gate and into Rissani, a bustling market town. Rissani is known for its lively livestock auction, where locals gather to buy and sell animals. Explore the vibrant markets and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of the market. One of the highlights is the "donkey car park" where locals park their donkeys while they shop – an interesting and authentic sight worth experiencing.
After that, head to the desert city of Tinhir, located in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. From there, venture to the stunning Todra Gorge, a natural wonder carved by the Todra River. The gorge offers stunning views with cliffs reaching as high as 984 feet (300 metres). Take your time to explore the gorge, admire the dramatic rock formations, and relax in the cool waters of the shallow Todra River.
Continue west to Kalaat M'Gouna, famous for its Rose Festival. You will be greeted here by extensively cultivated farmland decorated with fragrant rose bushes. The air is filled with the delightful scent of roses, creating a captivating atmosphere. Take the opportunity to watch the harvest of roses and learn about the production of rose-based products. It is a sensual delight for flower lovers.
Finally, reach Ouarzazate, a desert city that serves as a gateway to the desert and has gained popularity through the film industry. Join a studio tour and discover how the nearby desert landscape has appeared in many films. Explore Atlas Film Studios, where elaborate set pieces bring stories to life. Gain an insight into the world of cinema and enjoy the captivating landscapes that grace the silver screen.
Day 5 offers a diverse and captivating journey through desert cities, green oases, and landscapes that captivate filmmakers. From watching the sunrise and sand boarding in the dunes to experiencing the traditions of Khimliya and exploring the Todra Valley, every moment promises adventure and magic.
Morning in Aït Benhaddou:
Start your day by exploring the ancient village of Aït Benhaddou. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture. Wander through its narrow streets, admire the well-preserved kasbahs (fortified houses), and learn about the history of the trans-Saharan trade route. Don't miss the Granary, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Ascend the High Atlas Mountains:
After exploring Aït Benhaddou, embark on a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains. As you ascend, keep an eye out for Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. The mountain range offers breathtaking vistas, so make sure to take plenty of pictures and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Descend to Marrakech:
As you descend from the High Atlas Mountains, you'll notice a change in climate and landscape. The arid desert scenery gives way to the vibrant city of Marrakech. Enjoy the drive through the picturesque valleys and arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon.
Evening in Marrakech:
Check into your hotel in Marrakech and take some time to relax and freshen up. In the early evening, head to Jemaa el-Fna, the main square and the heart of Marrakech's medina (old city). Here, you'll find a lively atmosphere filled with street performers, musicians, storytellers, and food stalls. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the square, or if you prefer a more relaxed experience, find a café overlooking the square where you can sip traditional mint tea and enjoy a meal while observing the spectacle.
On the seventh day, you will have the opportunity to better discover the city of Marrakesh, known as the "Red City".
Here is the suggested itinerary for your day:
Koutoubia Mosque and Gardens:
Start your day with a visit to the famous Koutoubia Mosque. Although non-Muslim visitors are not allowed to enter, you can still admire the magnificent architecture and towering minaret, a prominent landmark in Marrakesh. You can stroll through the surrounding gardens and enjoy the fountains and tranquil pools.
Explore markets:
Start your shopping adventure at Souk El Attarine, Souk El Chowari, and Souk El Samata, where you can find a wide range of goods including spices, woodcrafts, and traditional Moroccan slippers called babouches. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you bargain with local vendors and discover unique treasures.
Market de Tinturier:
Head to the Dyers Market, also known as the Dyers Market. Here, you can see the traditional dyeing techniques used to color fabric and yarn. Marvel at the vibrant colors and learn about artisans' ancient methods of creating beautifully dyed textiles.
Ben Youssef School:
Visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a historic Qur'anic school dating back to the 16th century. Enjoy the magnificent Moroccan Islamic architecture and intricate interior details. Admire the carved cedar ceilings, carved plasterwork, and stunning zellij tiles, showcasing Morocco's rich artistic heritage.
On Day 8, you'll embark on an adventure to Amizmiz, a small town located in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains, offering an opportunity to explore the local culture and stunning natural landscapes. Here's a suggested itinerary for your day:
Journey to Amizmiz:
In the morning, depart from Marrakech and travel south to Amizmiz. The journey takes approximately one hour, and along the way, you'll be able to enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Trekking in the High Atlas Mountains:
Join your mountain guide and set off on a trek through the narrow roads and mule paths in the hills surrounding Amizmiz. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the High Atlas mountains as you hike between small Berber villages. Observe the local farmers and shepherds going about their daily activities, and perhaps encounter children on their way to or from school, which is often shared between nearby villages.
Lunch with a Local Family:
Stop for a delicious lunch with a local Berber family. Gain insight into their daily lives and traditions as you share a meal together. You may even have the opportunity to learn how to make homemade bread, a staple of Moroccan cuisine.
Afternoon Hike and Overnight Stay:
Continue your hike in the afternoon, taking in the breathtaking views and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the High Atlas mountains. As the day comes to a close, return to another local Berber home where you'll be warmly welcomed for dinner. Enjoy a traditional meal and experience the warm hospitality of your hosts. You'll be provided with a room to rest and spend the night, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the local culture.
Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes, carry sufficient water, and dress appropriately for the weather. The High Atlas mountains offer a fantastic opportunity for outdoor exploration and cultural exchange, so embrace the experience and enjoy the beauty of this region.
On Day 9, you can continue your hiking adventure in the Atlas Mountains before returning to Marrakech. Here's a suggested itinerary for your day:
Breakfast with your Hosts:
Start your day by enjoying a delicious breakfast with your Berber hosts. Take in the local flavors and hospitality as you bid them farewell.
Continue Exploring the Local Scenery:
Resume your hike through the Atlas Mountains, taking in the breathtaking scenery and enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. Explore the small villages that dot the landscape, observing the traditional way of life and marveling at the region's natural beauty.
Return to Marrakech:
In the late afternoon or early evening, make your way back to Marrakech. Once you arrive, settle into your accommodation and take some time to rest and relax.
Explore the Kasbah Area:
In the evening, head to the kasbah area south of Jemaa el-Fna, Marrakech's main square. Begin by visiting the Saadian Tombs, which date back 500 years and showcase impressive craftsmanship. Explore the intricate mausoleums and appreciate the historical significance of this site.
Visit El Badi Palace and Bahia Palace:
Continue your exploration by visiting the sunken gardens of El Badi Palace, a 17th-century palace known for its grandeur and architectural beauty. Wander through the gardens and soak in the serene atmosphere.
Next, make your way to the Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter of Marrakech. Experience its unique ambiance as you stroll through its narrow streets. Continue to the Bahia Palace, a 19th-century palace renowned for its stunning architecture and exquisite details. Admire the beautifully decorated rooms and tranquil courtyards.
Optional: Dar Di Said Museum:
If time permits and you're interested in Moroccan arts and crafts, consider visiting the Dar Di Said Museum, also known as the Museum of Moroccan Arts. Explore the exhibits showcasing traditional clothing, antiques, jewelry, and intricately carved Hispano-Moorish decorations made from cedar wood.
Remember to allocate enough time for each attraction and consider their operating hours. Stay hydrated, take breaks as needed, and dress comfortably.
On the tenth day, you will return to Casablanca, marking the end of your trip in Morocco. Here is the suggested itinerary for your day:
Last minute shopping:
Start your day by completing your shopping for last-minute gifts and souvenirs in Marrakesh. Explore local markets and shops to find unique treasures to take home as souvenirs from your trip.
Visit the Almoravid Dome:
Next, make your way to the Almoravid Dome, a 12th-century monument and the only surviving Almoravid building. Rediscovered in 1948, the Dome is a fascinating historical site that reflects Morocco's rich cultural heritage. Take some time to explore and appreciate its architectural beauty.
Marrakesh Museum:
After visiting the Almoravid Dome, head to the Marrakesh Museum. The museum is located in the 19th-century Moroccan palace of Dar Mnebi, and offers a variety of modern and traditional arts. Explore exhibits showcasing artifacts from Berber, Moroccan Jewish and Islamic cultures, and gain deeper insights into the country's artistic and cultural heritage.
Lunch in Marrakesh:
Enjoy a pleasant lunch at one of the local restaurants in Marrakesh. In the afternoon, embark on your return trip to Casablanca. The flight takes about 3.5 hours, giving you time to reflect on your experiences in Morocco and enjoy the passing scenery.
leave:
Arrive in Casablanca in the evening in time to catch your flight to your next destination. If you have some free time before departure, you can choose to explore part of Casablanca or relax in one of the city's cafés.
Remember to consider traffic conditions and allow enough time to reach the airport for your flight. It is always a good idea to check the flight schedule and plan accordingly.
When your Morocco adventure is over, cherish the memories you made and the cultural experiences you enjoyed throughout your trip. Morocco has so much to offer, and I hope you have a wonderful and enriching experience during your time here. Safe travels!
Departure & return location
• Your base location in Casablanca
Departure Time
• To be set according to your schedule
Includes
• 3 nights' accommodation in comfortable hotels
• Professional English Speaking driver/guide
• Comfortable Air-conditioned 4x4 or minivan
• Pick up from hotel/Airport
• Drop off at your hotel/Airport
• Local taxes at your hotels
Doesn't include
• Dinners and lunches
• Drinks
• Monuments entree free
