Morocco: a trip of a lifetime

Airport transfer from Marrakech Menara airport to Marrakech Medina - Airport transfer from Marrakech Menara airport to Marrakech Medina

Day 1: Marrakech

Airport transfer from Marrakech Menara airport to Marrakech Medina
Other Transfer: You will be transferred from Marrakech Menara airport to your accomodation in the centre of the medina. Estimated travel time - 15 minutes

City guided tour of the Medina and Souks - Visit the Jardin Majorelle - Unique dinner at the Chez Ali

Day 2: Marrakech

City guided tour of the Medina and Souks
Excursion: Today, you will be able to enjoy a morning tour with a private guide of the old medina in Marrakech, where you will be able to see the old palaces such as Bahia, madrassa, and jamna El Fnaa square. This square is a real entertainment hub which evolves throughout the day. At morning, onlookers will hear the sounds of snake-charmers, and at dusk, the square is bustling with musicians, acrobats and storytellers. The square was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. Take time to discover the wonderful souks and alleyways; visit the magic souk with its lotions and powders, or perhaps spend some time in the music or date and olive souks.


Visit the Jardin Majorelle
Excursion: Vivid gardens with pools and exotic plants, an oasis of colour, formerly owned by Yves Saint-Laurent and designed by Jacques Majorelle (a french painter). The juxtaposition of the "majorelle blue" paint work with the yellows of the plant pots and the plants and flowers of all hues is worth a long visit.


Unique dinner at the Chez Ali
Excursion: Here you will be able to experience a special culinary experience, with a show alongside your meal. Enjoy a traditional dinner whilst admiring spectacles such as berber dancing, horsemanship, and a show.

Marrakech cookery course - Hammam experience in Marrakech - Take a tour around the secret gardens of the Medina and Riads

Day 3: Marrakech

Marrakech cookery course
Excursion: Learn how to make authentic Tagines and Moroccan specialities! Meet the chef in the souk in the late morning and select your ingredients to take back to the kitchen. There you will learn how traditional Moroccan food is made and spiced. Normally the chef will teach you how to make a classic Tagine and the range of spices and methods needed. Sample your produce for dinner.


Hammam experience in Marrakech
Excursion: Experience a traditional Moroccan bathing house in Marrakech. There are various hammans dotted all over the city, from the ones teeming with locals at about 10Dh to the super fancy ones mainly there for richer tourists which can be towards 1000Dh or more. They are basically the same, with cold, warm and hot rooms and plenty of space for a massage, skin scrubbing and treatments with the various argan products of Morocco.


Take a tour around the secret gardens of the Medina and Riads
Excursion: A visit to the historic secret gardens and palatial grounds of “Le Jardin Secret” offer a peaceful sanctuary and respite from the bustling streets of Marrakech. Dating back to the Arab Moroccan Saadian Dynasty (1549-1659), visitors come to appreciate examples of stunning Islamic art and architecture. This used to be one of the largest riads in Medina of Marrakech, and is also one of the oldest. It only recently opened its doors to visitors in 2016, and 8 years of preparatory work took place before this site began accepting visitors. The riad itself was once owned by local chief "U-Bihi", and it has two beautiful courtyards. The larger of the two is an Islamic paradise garden, and the second smaller garden is the Exotic Garden. The Exotic Garden coined its name for it is home to a wonderful array of worldwide plants, which come from destinations ranging from Madagascar to Australia. The Islamic Garden is home to pomegranate, date, olive and fig trees.

Transfer from Marrakech to Ouarzazate Via Telouet & Aït Ben Haddou - Transfer from Marrakech to Ouarzazate Via Telouet & Aït Ben Haddou - Explore the Palais of the Glaoui at Telouet

Day 4: Telouet - Ouarzazate

Transfer from Marrakech to Ouarzazate Via Telouet & Aït Ben Haddou
Other Transfer: You will be transferred from Marrakech to your new destination, Ouarzazate. On the way you will visit Telouet and Aït Ben Haddou. You will leave Marrakech in the morning in a private minibus and be dropped to your hotel by early evening. Estimated time 5 hours


Explore the Palais of the Glaoui at Telouet
Excursion: Whilst many tourists will head straight to the better known Ait Benhaddou, Kasbah Telouet is often bypassed. However, it is certainly worth a stopover for its striking positioning atop a small hill against blue skies, surrounding greenery, wonderfully intricate mosaics, and ornate wood carvings enriching the walls. The architecture is stunning, and attention to detail truly amazing.


Visit Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
Excursion: This World Heritage site is a ancient but well preserved kasbah and has been the backdrop for many films including "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones." It is still inhabited, but possible to wander through the streets and get an impressive view from the hilltop on which it is built. A rocky desert or "Hamada" surrounds the kasbah, but where there is a deep water course, palm trees grow in abundance.

Ouarzazate to Merzouga - Ouarzazate to Merzouga - Valley of the Roses - visit a cooperative making rose products

Day 5: Kalaat M'Gouna - Merzouga

Ouarzazate to Merzouga
Other Transfer: Travelling along the Valley of the Roses, the attractions on the way include the Palmeries of Skoura and Kasbah Amherdil, the Dades Gorges and the towering cliffs of Todra. The road follows the Valley of the Roses, where there are fields of the pink of Damacus Roses in season. Drive onwards to reach the desert areas around Merzouga. Transfer is by private minibus. Travel time around 4 hours depending on stops.


Valley of the Roses - visit a cooperative making rose products
Excursion: Enjoy a spectacular ride along road to Merzouga. The road passes through the Valley of the Roses, which have wonderful rose fields at the right time of year (usually May time). You will then pass the Palmeries of Skoura with its ruined kasbahs and see the gorges of Dades and Todra with its impressive high rock walls. Estimated travel time - approximately 4-5 hours


See the Todra Gorge
Excursion: The Todra valley narrows after the verdant palmeries and fields, and following the river, you can see the 300m cliffs which tower above the track. The Todra Gorge is ideal for climbers and a good place to walk. The strong sunlight highlights the colours of the rocks.


Enjoy tea with a Berber family
Excursion: Relax and enjoy a tea with a Berber family.


Enjoy a camel ride to your luxury camp in Merzouga
Excursion: Enjoy a spectacular camel ride to your luxury camp in Merzouga. Take in the breathtaking arid scenery on this unique experience.

Merzouga to Ifrane - Merzouga to Ifrane - Watch the sun rise over the dunes of Erg Chebbi

Day 6: Erg Chebbi - Ifrane

Merzouga to Ifrane
Other Transfer: After perhaps an early start to see the sunrise over the dunes, take the transport over the High Atlas and see the Gorge du Ziz before travelling onwards across the plains to the Cedar forests of the Middle Atlas- night in Ifrane the "swiss" town of Morocco. While this is a longish travelling day (about 6 hours or so depending on road conditions and stops), the scenery changes dramatically from the Mountains of the High Atlas to the plains where it's possible to see nomads from the tribe Ait Atta Tafoukht and their camels and then reach the Middle Atlas and the forests of ancient Cedar. Transfer is by private minibus.


Watch the sun rise over the dunes of Erg Chebbi
Excursion: Today you will have the unique opportunity to climb the sand dunes before breakfast in twilight to see the sun rise and the dunes change colour. Notice the spectacular colours and take in the breathtaking views in this once in a lifetime experience.


Travel to the High Atlas mountains and see the Ziz Gorges
Excursion: You will be driven from the desert up the road to climb the passes of the High Atlas range. The gorge of Ziz is a photogenic landmark.


Visit the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas mountains
Excursion: Drive through and visit a glade of the forest where there have been sightings of the Barbary Macaques.


Evening at leisure in the town of Ifrane
Excursion: Ifrane has been compared to a Swiss alpine town, and could not be more different from any other town in Morocco, with its cedar forests, luscious green vegetation and red-roofed houses. Located 1,665 metres above sea level, Ifrane enjoys snowy winters which contributes to its nickname as "The Switzerland of Morocco". In the evening, enjoy a meal in the town centre, for Ifrane has an abundance of eateries, often located on rooftops or terraces. Be sure to look out for the town's famous lion sculpture. Take a stroll after your meal to soak up the charming atmosphere. For a spot of live music, head to the Aguelmam Restaurant Bar Café.

Transfer from Ifrane to Fes - Transfer from Ifrane to Fes - Chance to see the barbary apes near Ifrane

Day 7: Ifrane - Fes

Transfer from Ifrane to Fes
Other Transfer: Say goodbye to the peaks of the Atlas Mountains and travel back across the country to Morocco's oldest imperial city. Transfer is by private minibus. Travel time: Approx 1.5 hours.


Chance to see the barbary apes near Ifrane
Excursion: Today you may have a chance to see the barbary apes that live in the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas.


Explore the town of Ifrane
Excursion: Take the opportunity to meander the quaint and charming town of Ifrane, discover its parks and wonderful flora and fauna. Animal species that you may have a chance to spot here include the Barbary macaque (a breed of endangered monkey), the golden jackal, and the caracal (a breed of wildcat). Bird-watching lovers should be sure to keep an eye out for the crimson winged finch, the white scavenger vulture and the atlas coal tit. Perhaps go on a visit to the Monkey forest, where visitors can feed the monkeys peanuts and admire these special creatures. Located in the centre of the city with its own garden is "The Salle de Conferences", a good example of the town's alpine-style architecture. If you happen to be in Ifrane during the winter, a sumptuous bowl of the traditional Harira Moroccan soup will warm you up and give you a taste of local culture.


Evening at leisure to explore the Medina
Excursion: Fes is the oldest of the Imperial Cities, founded in the 9th century, with many different tribes and peoples inhabiting it over the centuries, all adding their own influences on the place. The souks and medieval Medina is large and comprises of winding alleyways, shopping areas, cafes, old palaces and residences, Fes el Bali alone has about 9500 alleyways and souks! Enjoy an evening at leisure to explore the wonderful medina of Fes, which has been wonderfully preserved. The charming streets, crumbling architecture, bustling eateries and outdoor markets make for a fantastic atmosphere. If you are in the mood for a high-quality couscous or tagine, head to one of the local Riads. You will find that the shops will be open until relatively late if you fancy buying any traditional souvenirs.

Private city guided tour of the souks of the Medina - Afternoon at leisure to explore the Medina

Day 8: Fes

Private city guided tour of the souks of the Medina
Excursion: Visit the medieval souks, the old palaces and sights of the Medina. Fez was founded in the 9th century, and its Medina is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The oldest university in the world - the University of Al Quaraouiyine - is located here. Expect bustling streets, quaint alleyways, and intricately designed mosques and palaces. Please note, it is commonplace for guides in Fes to show you specific shops and stalls- this is so they can make an extra commission for their trade. They tend to prefer bigger groups as a result. Our local experts always choose the best guides available in Fes, whilst recognising this is a cultural reality that is hard to shift. Do not hesitate to let your guide know if you would rather spend more time seeing the cultural sites at the start of the tour, and they will happily abide.


Afternoon at leisure to explore the Medina
Excursion: Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the Medina on your own. Have a go at your bargaining skills to buy authentic leather ware, ceramics and clothes. Be sure to take a visit to one of Fez' three tanneries to experience the sights and smells of the fascinating process some of the street stall's produce goes through to reach its final product. The dyeing of the hides of sheep, goats, camel and cows is all executed manually, and the dyes and liquids themselves are laid out next to each other in haphazard rows, mimicking the palette of a colourful array of paints. Simplified, the process consists of a cycle of soaking the hides, and dyeing the hides using a series of natural vegetable dyes. The surrounding terraces next to the leather shops make for the best viewing platforms. Embrace the wonderful architecture of this town which incorporates Oriental, African and Andalusian influences. Take a peek into the courtyard of the oldest university in the world, founded by Fatima al-Fihri in 859 AD. Although non-Muslims cannot enter the actual building, the university library is opening for viewing since a recent restoration project.

Fes to Chefchaouen - Fes to Chefchaouen - Explore the Blue City of Chefchaouen

Day 9: Chefchaouen

Fes to Chefchaouen
Other Transfer: Traveling northwards from Fes, the route goes past the region of the dayets or small lakes before ascending into the foothills of the Rif Mountains. Your journey ends at the Blue city of Chefchaouen. Transfer will be by minibus. Travel time 3.5-4 hours depending on stops.


Explore the Blue City of Chefchaouen
Excursion: Time to explore “Chaouen” with its Berber, Jewish and Spanish history, a town closed off to Christians until the early 20th century. A light blue wash on the white houses makes the town very photogenic. The old medina is quite small, and therefore discoverable by walking through the streets, perhaps stopping at the weaving shops (formerly silk but now wool) and the funduq at the corner of the main square Plaza Uta El Hammam.

At leisure in Chefchaouen

Day 10: Chefchaouen

At leisure in Chefchaouen
Excursion: Enjoy some free time to fully explore the blue town Chefchaouen, located in the breathtaking Rif mountains of Morocco. Browse the quirky markets, sample some local cuisine in one of the city's many restaurants, or simply wonder the streets to take in its charming atmosphere. Be wary of spontaneous street guides who will offer to show you the best local restaurants, and then ask for a commission. Pop into the old city and Medina to have a further browse of local souvenirs. A visit to the Kasbah Museum - the ethnographic museum - will give you a taste of Chefchaouen's fascinating history, through a collection of local artefacts; ranging from musical instruments to pottery pieces. For a spot of people watching with a drink in hand, head to the popular and bustling square of "Plaza Uta el-Hammam," situated in the heart of Chefchaouen's Medina. Be sure to admire the "Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen" with its traditional Moroccan architecture.

Travel southwards from Chefchaouen to Larache - Travel southwards from Chefchaouen to Larache - Visit the Roman city of Lixus

Day 11: Lixus - Rabat

Travel southwards from Chefchaouen to Larache
Other Transfer: Travel southwards to the coast, passing the whitewashed town of Asilah to Larache, visiting the Roman city of Lixus with its well preserved mosaics and interesting ruins. Estimated travel time - approximately 6 hours (timings are dependent on road conditions, and stops made along the way)


Visit the Roman city of Lixus
Excursion: Located 35 kilometres from Asilah, the ancient roman city of Lixus makes for a fascinating visit. Although the ruins themselves are not particularly visually impressive, the story behind them is very interesting. These archaeological ruins were founded in 1200 BC, and tell the stories of several ancient civilisations. The original settlers were the Phoenicians during the 7th century BC, but later the city came under Carthaginian rule following an invasion. The Romans subsequently conquered and ruled this town. Although only a quarter of these ruins have been excavated, visitors of the site will be able to make out what is left of the garum factories (which produced a fish paste), a roman amphitheatre, public baths, ovens, and the remains of some intricate mosaic flooring. The site's positioning atop a hill on the right bank of the Lucus River makes for a striking view and surroundings. Some ancient Greek writers believed that Lixus held the mythological garden of Hesperides; characters from Greek mythology. Whilst meandering these ruins, use your imagination to picture the daily lives of these settlers. If you feel like a relaxing swim after an exploration, head to Lixus' nearest white-sand beach, Larache. Be wary of the strong waves! To the north lies the Loukos Estuary, another pretty white-sand beach.


Transfer from Lixus to Rabat
Other Transfer: You will be transferred from Lixus to Rabat where you will spend the evening. Estimated travel time is 25 minutes.

Explore the sights of Rabat, the Kasbah Des Ouidaiyas and the Chellah - Visit the Hassan Tower - Visit the Mausoleum of King Mohammed V

Day 12: Rabat

Explore the sights of Rabat, the Kasbah Des Ouidaiyas and the Chellah
Excursion: Rabat, Morocco's enchanting capital, is often overlooked, even though its Medina offers a less touristic experience than other more renowned Moroccan cities, and an accolade of high quality restaurants. Rabat is known to be a very friendly place; it is very clean, a tram helps visitors and residents to navigate the city, and its wide sidewalks allow for a more peaceful sightseeing experience. Rabat has a certain cosmopolitan, European feel to its streets, as whist meandering the city you will be sure to hear a range of languages, and come across an array of excellent restaurants and cafés spilling onto the streets. Explore the fortress "Kasbah Des Oudaïas" for spectacular views over the city. Built in the 12th century, this fortress was constructed as a means to protect Rabat from potential invaders and menacing pirate ships, purposefully situated on the banks of the Bou Regreg river. The fortress has been renovated several times since the date of its original construction. Discover The Chellah, an Islamic burial place and Roman ruin, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012. The site is undoubtedly Rabat's most popular tourist attraction. Constructed by the Romans in 40 AD, and abandoned approximately 100 years later, this historic site was both occupied by the Phoenicians and the Romans. Here you will be able to spot physical evidence of roman occupation, including the ruins of the governmental buildings, the main roadway, and a decorative fountain. Today, the Chellah is used as a picturesque location for music concerts, such as the Jazz Festival "Jazz au Chellah." Wander into its gardens which exhibit a variety of beautiful flowers and plants.


Visit the Hassan Tower
Excursion: The Hassan tower, located in Rabat, is the minaret of an unfinished mosque that was originally meant to be the second largest mosque of the Islamic world. The tower itself was also intended to reach approximately double its current height of 44 metres, but its construction ended following the death of its founder Sultan Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur. It was he who requested that this tower were the largest in the world. The project was abandoned after his death, and we can only now imagine what the mosque would have looked like, whilst admiring the 200 columns that would have served as the buildings support network.


Visit the Mausoleum of King Mohammed V
Excursion: The beautifully designed Mausoleum of King Mohammed V is the resting place of the royal family, and a mosque, one of the few religious grounds in Morocco that is open to the public for visits. Its architect was Vietnamese, and its construction ended in 1971. Come here to admire an excellent example of Alaouite dynasty’s architectural style and pay tribute to the late Hassan II, Prince Abdallah, and his grandfather, whose tombs lie in this Mausoleum. Admire the intricacies of the design and the mosaic floors. The white exterior of the museum contrasts with its elegant green tiled roof, which represents the colour of Islam.

Transfer from Rabat to Casablanca - Transfer from Rabat to Casablanca - Visit the Mosque Hassan II

Day 13: Casablanca

Transfer from Rabat to Casablanca
Other Transfer: You will now make your way from Rabat to Casablanca. Estimated travel time - 1 hour


Visit the Mosque Hassan II
Excursion: One of the largest in the world, and built partly over the sea, this mosque was commissioned by King Hassan II and was completed by August 1993. It is said that 10,000 workmen built Mosque Hassan II over 5 years. The building can hold over 25,000 worshippers inside, with many more outside. It is decorated with cedar wood from the Middle Atlas and zellige carvings. Built by public subscription, it is quite a landmark and is one of the only two mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims.


Visit the Medina
Excursion: This pre-20th century city is divided into Old Medina and New Medina, and is bustling with movement, street markets, and history. Sample some of Morocco’s delicious cuisine in one of the many good restaurants, buy some souvenirs in the local flea markets and bustling shops, and admire the Medina’s ornate architecture. Be aware that the bazaar can be very crowded on the weekends.


Stroll along the Corniche (optional)
Excursion: Walk along the side of the beach, lined with ice cream parlours, restaurants and theatres, and soak up the wonderful panoramic sea views.


Enjoy a cup of tea in Rick’s café
Excursion: Rick's cafe is a tribute to the film Casablanca and set up along the same as in the film. Although the film was totally imaginary, this cafe was built as a result of the film's popularity and charm.

Transfer from Casablanca to Oualidia - Transfer from Casablanca to Oualidia - Lunch in Oualidia (Optional)

Day 14: Oualidia - Essaouira

Transfer from Casablanca to Oualidia
Other Transfer: You will then travel onwards down the coast to the oyster capital of Morocco, Oualidia. Estimated travel time - approximately 3 hours


Lunch in Oualidia (Optional)
Excursion: You will then have the option to enjoy lunch in the charming village of Oualidia (pronounced “Wa-lid-ee-ah.”) . Overlooking a tranquil coastal lagoon, Oualidia offers an accolade of water based activities. The beaches are beautiful here, and bird watching opportunities aplenty.


Transfer from Oualidia to Essaouira
Other Transfer: You will now be transferred from Oualidia to Essaouira. Estimated travel time - approximately 3 hours


At leisure in the coastal town of Essaouira
Excursion: Essaouira is arguably one of Morocco's most enchanting towns, with origins in Berber, Portuguese and French architecture. It was inhabited by the Romans and possibly the Phoenicians as far back as 7th century BC; the Romans used to harvest molluscs here for the Imperial purple dye. This old fortified has been a trading port of various importance throughout its history and still has a thriving fishing harbour: take a wander down to the sea, and you'll be stunned by the dazzling mass of fishing boats, all painted a vibrant blue. The serenity of Essaouira makes it perfect for leisure time: recline on the golden sands, drift between the craft shops on the blue cobbled streets, or simply relax in a hamman. Its name translates as the 'wind city of Africa', so if you fancy something more active, it is great for windsurfing and other water sports. It has a nice climate throughout the year, with other activities including discovering the wooden boat building in the harbour, trying a traditional Moroccan cookery course, and admiring the copious displays of Thuiya wood and argan. The seafood here is to die for, so we highly recommend giving that a try too!

Free day to explore Essaouira

Day 15: Essaouira

Free day to explore Essaouira
Excursion: Formerly a Portuguese town, and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site since 2001, this windy seaside city in Morocco is perfect for a day of pottering, eating and beach walks. Wander the charming alleyways of the medina, famous for Thuyia wood product, walk the historic ramparts and fortifications built to defend the city, or perhaps have a go at a watersport activity such as windsurfing or kitesurfing. Be sure to visit a traditional souk, an experience that overwhelms the senses. For an authentic, less touristic market experience, head to Had Dra to witness the sale of livestock and fresh vegetables. Walk along the white sandy beach, or alternatively enjoy a camel ride, and take in the beautiful views. Do be aware that swimming is not recommended, due to the strong winds! Walk along the port to admire the charming iconic blue wooden boats, and see if you can experience a fish auction in the market hall, located just outside of the port gates. Expect to see huge fishing nets, experience salty smells and to be in the heart of the action. For a bit of history, head to the Sidi Mohamad Abdellah Museum, Essaouira’s history museum, which exhibits musical instruments, weapons and traditional Moroccan dress. For some art and culture, head to Espace Othello, a private gallery for contemporary artists. Perhaps spend your evening at II Mare bar, a restaurant stroke bar with live music, and fantastic views of the ramparts, steeped in history. It is no wonder that this seaside city featured in the popular series Game of Thrones.

Travel from Essaouira to Marrakech via the Argan forests - Travel from Essaouira to Marrakech via the Argan forests - Visit an argan oil cooperative

Day 16: Essaouira - Marrakech

Travel from Essaouira to Marrakech via the Argan forests
Other Transfer: You will now travel from Essaouira to Marrakech via the Argan forests. Estimated travel time - 3 hours


Visit an argan oil cooperative
Excursion: Have a short tour around the Argan oil cooperative and try some of the products! The visit usually includes a tour around the site to see the women grinding the nuts, making the oils and pastes, and an offer to try the grinding yourself. You will then be able to experience a tasting of the oils with various pieces of fresh bread.

Airport transfer from your hotel in Marrakech to the Marrakech Menara Airport - Airport transfer from your hotel in Marrakech to the Marrakech Menara Airport

Day 17:

Airport transfer from your hotel in Marrakech to the Marrakech Menara Airport
Other Transfer: You will now be transferred from your hotel in Marrakech to the Marrakech Menara Airport. Estimated travel time - 15 minutes