Highlights tour of Morocco

Casablanca

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Your guide and driver will meet you at Casablanca airport for the private minibus transfer into the city centre (approx 1 hr).

Begin to get to know this land by exploring The Hassan II Mosque. Not only is it the largest Mosque in Casablanca, but the largest in Africa and 5th largest in the world. The majesty and craftsmanship of this holy building are staggering, making this stately structure a must-see for visitors to Casablanca. It is also the only mosque in the city that non-Muslims can visit. Marvel at the meticulous geometric tilework, heavenly marble inlays, hand-carved wood and intricate cedar ceilings. The attention to detail of the artisans who contributed to its construction is incredible.

Tangier

Day 2: Evocative coastal route to Tangier

Take the road that travels up the coast, past the capital city of Rabat and onwards to the town of Larache. Make a small diversion to see the expansive and evocative Roman ruins of Lixus. Continue on through the eucalyptus forest and along the coast to Asilah and the city of Tangier (private minibus to Tangier, approx 4-5 hrs).

At leisure in Tangier, head out into the winding streets of Tangier, and perhaps have a cup of tea in the Grand Socco area.

Chefchaouen

Day 3: Discover the photogenic 'Blue Pearl' of Morroco

Drive into the Rif Mountains in the North of Morocco and through the fields and Berber farms to the "Blue Pearl" Chefchaouen (private minibus, approx 2-3 hrs).

Spend the afternoon at leisure in Chefchaouen, exploring the town and its Berber, Jewish and Spanish history, 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 easy to discover on foot; stop in at the weaving shops (formerly silk but now wool) and the fundug at the corner of the main square Plaza Uta El Hammam.

Chefchaouen

Day 4: Charming and traditional Chefchaouen

Enjoy some free time to fully explore the blue town of Chefchaouen, with a breathtaking backdrop of the Rif mountains. Browse the quirky markets, sample some local cuisine in one of the town's many restaurants, or simply wander the streets to take in the charming atmosphere. An option is to go with a local guide; they will charge visitors a commission.

Pop into the old city and Medina to browse for local souvenirs. A visit to the Kasbah Museum - the ethnographic museum - will give you a taste of Chefchaouen's fascinating history, with a wide-ranging collection of local artefacts, from musical instruments to pottery pieces.

For a spot of people-watching, head to the popular and bustling square of "Plaza Uta el-Hammam," situated in the heart of Chefchaouen Medina. Be sure to admire the "Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen" with its traditional Moroccan architecture.

Fes

Day 5: Beautiful route through the foothills to Fes

Descending the Rif mountains to the forests in the “dayets” (small lakes) area, the route continues to the imperial city of Fes. The road passed through the foothills of the Rif Mountains, with Berber farms and green fields and onward to the rolling hills near Fes (private minibus transfer, approx 4hrs).

Fes is the oldest of the Imperial Cities, with many different tribes and people inhabiting it over the centuries, all adding their own influences. The medieval Medina is large, comprising thousands of winding alleyways, shopping areas, cafes, old palaces and residences, while the new city outside the Medina walls is dominated by wide streets and European architecture. Explore the shops, Medersa Bou Inania, the el-Attarine and the many museums to get a feel for the city's heritage.

Fes

Day 6: Atmospheric heritage tour of Fes

Discover the gaudy streets of Fes on this lively guided tour. Explore Morocco's oldest imperial city partially on foot, partially by car, to best appreciate this wonderful example of a medieval Moroccan city; the narrow streets, sprawling souks and ornate palaces are a joy to explore. Small local cafes dot the side streets, inviting you in to sample traditional Moroccan foods. Walk the streets with a local guide who is an expert on the city, its heritage and wonderful historical architecture.

Highlights of the tour include visiting the Royal Palace, strolling through the humming Medina and marvelling at market rugs, clothing, and trinkets along the way. It is commonplace for guides in Fes to show you specific shops and stalls - this is a cultural 'norm'; however, your guide can tailor your visit, please do ask.

Meknes

Day 7: Rich history of Volubis and Meknes

Continue the journey to Volubis and onto Meknes (private minibus transfer).

Volubilis is one of Morocco's best-preserved ruins: an ancient Roman city, originally founded in the 3rd century BC by Carthaginian traders. The Romans developed it 2nd and 3rd centuries AD and the city grew rapidly; Berbers took over in about 280 ADS.

One of the many draws is that the site is only partially excavated; the Triumphal Arch, the Capitol, Baths and Basilica still dominate the landscape. The city's financial prosperity came from olive growing and led to the construction of many stunning townhouses; mosaics remain across the site. The site is open to visitors but you may prefer a guide.

Meknes is known as the 'Versailles of Morocco' with buildings to match. Visit the Medina and the old Jewish Mellah near the Place el Hedim, the Great Mosque and Madrasa Bou Inania and the huge gates of Bab el Mansour.

Midelt

Day 8: Wild and wonderful mid-Atlas

Travel from Meknes up into the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas, perhaps see the barbary apes that live in the forest or take tea with a Berber family in the mountains. Continue onwards to the plains between the two mountain ranges and night in Midelt (private minibus transfer, approx 3-4 hrs).

Merzouga

Day 9: Unforgettable saharan trek

First head into the High Atlas Mountains and have a chance to see the palmeries and the Gorge du Ziz before descending to the edge of the Sahara Desert at Merzouga (private minibus transfer, approx 4hrs).

Meet the camel team and trek the short distance through the great dunes of Erg Chebbi to the desert camp. The dunes change hue at the start and end of each day; take the opportunity to climb to the summit of the dunes to see the spectacular sunset.

Dinner is served in the camp; afterwards, marvel at the spectacular desert sky full of stars. Overnight in Desert camp HB

Merzouga

Day 10: Extraordinary desert experience

Get up early to see the sun rise over the dunes. After breakfast try some sand surfing or sand buggy (book direct on location to include insurance; guide can assist).

Overnight in Desert camp, half board.

Dades

Day 11: Incredible Gorge landscapes

Take the journey down to the foothills of the High Atlas past the palmeries and oasis to the Gorge du Todra. Stop off to marvel at this amazing landscape, before travelling onwards to the Gorges du Dades with its amazing rock formations (private minibus transfer, approx 5-6 hrs).

Ait Ben Haddou

Day 12: Fascinating visit to fortified village

Travel from Dades to Ouarzazate along the foothills of the High Atlas and past the palmeries of Skoura (private minibus transfer, approx 3-4hrs).

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

Taroudant

Day 13: Fascinating typical trading town

Travel through the rolling hills of the Anti-Atlas, pass the Rug-making town of Taznakht, and the Siroua Mountains, before moving on to the Berber town of Taroudant (private minibus transfer, approx 4-5hrs).

Taroudant is a city in the Sous Valley in southern Morocco. It is situated east of Agadir on the road to Ouarzazate and the Sahara Desert and south of Marrakesh. The town is known as the "Grandmother of Marrakesh" because it looks like a smaller Marrakesh with its surrounding ramparts. Spend some time at leisure in Taroudant, visit the souks, or simply relax in the hotel.

Tafraoute

Day 14: Immersive visit to a rural town

Travel through the rolling hills of the Anti-Atlas to Tafraoute, a typical small, rural town and a great base for some interesting walks through the countryside (private minibus transfer, approx 3-4 hrs).

Visit the local almond harvest festival in Feb-March. Follow one of the local walking routes to get a feel for the local flora and fauna and some amazing views. Wander around the souks and the centre of the town; perhaps try some of the traditional babouches (slippers) or explore the silver souks, with plenty of antique jewellery on display too.

Agadir

Day 15: Relax and enjoy modern Agadir

Take the road through the banana plantations and onwards to the town of Agadir (private minibus transfer, approx 3-4 hrs).

Enjoy the beach, the hotel or take a walk around the city. Agadir is a mainly modern city, that has been recently redeveloped. The beach area makes a relaxing break, then perhaps take a stroll to the harbour area to see the latest catch and maybe enjoy the catch of the day for lunch. For a more active afternoon, there are golf courses around the city and water sports and trekking available further afield.

Essaouira

Day 16: Fascinating coastal fortress Essaouira

Travel up the coast to Essaouira. Stop off at the National Park of Immouzer (called Paradise Valley) and see the waterfalls there en-route (private minibus transfer, approx 3hrs).

The fascinating old, fortified town of Essaouira is wonderful to explore, with architecture with Berber, Portuguese and French origins, and many links to its Roman and even Phoenician heritage still evident today. 

Essaouira has been a trading port of various importance throughout its history; visit the thriving fishing harbour to see the mass of fishing boats with many painted in the characteristic vibrant blue.

Essaouira

Day 17: Explore more of enchanting Essaouira

Essaouira is arguably one of Morocco's most enchanting towns; spend today getting to know the local culture. Join a cookery experience to sample the local seafood, and drift between the craft shops on the blue cobbled streets. For something more active, Essaouira translates as the 'wind city of Africa', so it's a great spot for windsurfing and other water sports. For a more relaxed time, simply head to the hammam or down to the golden sandy beach.

Marrakech

Day 18: Mysteries and magic of Marrakech

Travel from the coast and climb once more into the hills before travelling inland, away from the Argan forests and onto the plains. Pass the rocky desert of Agafay to reach Marrakech (private minibus transfer, approx 3hrs).

Explore Morocco's famed Jamna El Fna Square, bustling with acrobats and storytellers as they perform beside the vibrant souks. Meander the food stalls in the square - sense the strong French influence in popular dishes such as garlic snails; head for stalls frequented by locals to sample the best traditional food and drink. Try a spiced coffee in the square with warming cloves and cinnamon; an aromatic delight any time, it is perfect when visiting in the winter months.

Marrakech

Day 19: Splendours of Marrakech

Enjoy a riveting half day private tour of the ancient streets of Marrakech, accompanied by a specialist guide.

Setting out from the bustling Medina, twist your way through the mesmerising souks, with their bamboo shades and a vast array of enticing products in all colours, shapes and styles. Peer into the stalls, and try your hand at haggling over spices, precious metals and produce. There will be a chance to see the metalworking and woodworking areas, and perhaps a visit to the underground communal bakeries.

Emerge to behold breathtaking palaces and museums, starting with the 19th Century Palais Bahia or 'Brilliance' and continuing on to the Madrasa: once a prosperous Islamic college and now an Islamic heritage site. The tour ends in the Mellah, an enchanting Jewish neighbourhood in Marrakech (the tour can be tailored to accommodate specific interests).

Casablanca

Day 20: Return to Casablanca

Private minibus transfer from Marrakech to Casablanca, past the Jbelts (or small mountains North of Marrakech) and onwards to the green fields around the coastal city (transfer approx 3-4hrs).

On arrival in Casablanca, spend some time relaxing in the hotel before visiting the city centre. Take a stroll to the old city area or along the corniche to enjoy some refreshing sea air.

Airport

Day 21: Departure Day

Time for your onward flight - you will be transferred from Casablanca to the airport (private minibus transfer, approx 1hr).