Moroccan treasures: elegance & adventure

Marrakech Menara Airport - Marrakech

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech

Arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport, where your Moroccan adventure begins.

You’ll be met by your driver for your private transfer to your luxury riad (hotel) in the medina. Having settled in, spend the evening wandering through the souks and Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city's famous square, which comes alive with storytellers, musicians and food stalls. Afterwards, why not indulge in a delectable dinner at one of the city’s top gourmet restaurants, savouring traditional Moroccan dishes in an elegant setting.

Marrakech

Day 2: Tour the Red City

After a hearty breakfast, set off on a guided tour of Marrakech, famously known as the 'Red City' because of its distinctive pink-red buildings.

You'll visit the most important sites of historical and cultural interest, including the Koutoubia Tower, the main square Ljamaa Lfnathe, the Saadian Tombs and the Bahia Palace, renowned for its intricate designs and stunning gardens.

After you've found a spot to unwind over a delicious lunch near the square, there will be plenty of time this afternoon to explore Marrakech at your own pace. Wander through the labyrinthine souks, where you can find everything from carpets to spices or perhaps opt for a visit to the serene Majorelle Gardens.

Later, head back to your riad for a relaxed evening. 

Marrakech - Ourika Valley - Atlas Mountains

Day 3: Head to the mountains

After breakfast today, you'll move on to the breathtaking Atlas Mountains.

After a scenic drive from Marrakech, you’ll arrive in the Ourika Valley, where the landscape is dotted with olive groves, terraced fields and mountain villages. Stop at several viewpoints to admire panoramic vistas of the valley and the towering mountain peaks.

From Ourika, there are various hikes catering to all abilities; these offer a perfect way to immerse yourself in the landscape. Explore traditional local villages and visit a Berber home for an amazing opportunity to learn about their way of life. Continue the hike up to the Setti Fatma waterfalls, a stunning natural wonder cascading through the rugged terrain.

Finally, arrive at your hotel, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Atlas Mountains, enjoying dinner and a serene night's sleep in the pure mountain air.

Atlas Mountains - Ait Ben Hadou - Ouarzazate

Day 4: Atlas Mountains summit

Rise early this morning, as you'll be setting off first thing. You'll ascend the dramatic – and highly photogenic Tizi-N'Tichka pass – before stopping at a traditional Berber village to enjoy a delicious breakfast. The ascent continues to reach the highest point in the Atlas Mountains, stopping at Ait Ben Hadou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With your guide, learn about the incredible earthen architecture and its historical significance, including its role in several famous films.

You'll have free time to find a place to enjoy some lunch, before your journey continues onwards to Ouarzazate, a location which, thanks to its striking landscapes, has also featured in many major movies.

Once you've arrived in Ouarzazate, check in to your new hotel, then relax and freshen up before dinner. 

Ouarzazate - Skoura - Dades

Day 5: Road of a Thousand Kasbahs

After this morning's breakfast, you’ll journey along the famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs.

Along this dramatic stretch, you'll pass through the stunning landscapes of Skoura Palm Grove and Rose Valley. Stop at Kasbah Amridil, a beautifully preserved 17th-century kasbah that offers a glimpse into traditional Moroccan life. Explore its maze of rooms and courtyards, and enjoy the beautiful rooftop views of the surrounding palm groves.

Continue to Kelaat M’gouna. The town is an excellent place to stop for a gourmet lunch at a local restaurant. If you’re interested, it's also worth visiting the cooperative where rosewater, an important aspect of Morocco’s heritage, is produced. After your break, the journey continues to Dades Valley, where dinner and a night of rest await you at your luxurious boutique hotel nestled in the natural beauty of the gorge.

Dades - Todra Gorges - Merzouga

Day 6: From valley to desert

Today, you’ll venture further into the country's most dramatic landscapes.

After a traditional Moroccan breakfast, continue along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing through colourful Berber villages along the way. Stop at Tineghir, famous by its beautiful palm groves and Jewish quarter, before reaching Todra Gorges. A popular destination for climbers and trekkers, you’ll have the opportunity to hike through the 300m high canyons.

Afterwards, it's time to make your way to the Sahara Desert, arriving at the Erg Chebbi sand dunes in the Merzouga Sahara region. Embark on a camel ride at sunset, transporting you across the desert to reach your luxury desert camp.

The evening will be spent enjoying dinner and traditional drumming with the camel drivers. Then, spend the night under canvas in a nomadic-style tent or even choose to sleep out in the open, with the starlit sky above.

Merzouga - Nkoub - Ouarzazate

Day 7: Stunning Sahara vistas

Wake up early for one of the most unforgettable experiences of your trip: watching the sun rise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After marvelling at the natural beauty of the desert at dawn, enjoy a hearty breakfast back at camp before transferring to the village of Merzouga. En route, the spectacular dunes are bound to impress.

Meet your driver for the onward journey to Ouarzazate via Nkoub Oasis and the Daraa Valley. Stop in Nkoub, a charming village known for having over 40 kasbahs. The old part of the village still contains many traditionally built kasbahs, constructed with local mud.

Continue through the Daraa Valley, home to the world’s largest palm grove, where you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery as you travel along the palm-lined route. After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive back in Ouarzazate for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay, ready for your final full day in Morocco.

Ouarzazate - Marrakech

Day 8: Cinematic Ouarzazate

Enjoy a final breakfast in the mountains, then spend the morning exploring Ouarzazate, known as the 'Gateway to the Sahara.' Visit the Cinema Museum and the nearby film studios, and see which famous films have been shot here. Next, head to the Kasbah of Taourirte, a historic fortress that once served as the seat of the El Glaoui family’s power. Afterwards, it's time to head back to Marrakech. Along the way, stop at the kasbah of Telouet, an impressive structure that once served as the El Glaoui family home.

After arriving in Marrakech, you’ll have time to relax at your hotel and enjoy the final evening of your Moroccan adventure.

Marrakech - Marrakech Menara Airport

Day 9: Departure from Marrakech

After a final breakfast in Marrakech, your driver will meet you and take you to Marrakech Menara International Airport for your flight home.