13 Days - Colors of Morocco

Breakfast will be served at your Riad, after which a knowledgeable local guide will lead you through the labyrinth of Marrakech's winding alleyways, hidden gardens, and secret souks. You will continue to the Djemaa el Fna, the principal cultural space in Marrakech and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beside which the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque can be seen towering into the sky. In the evening this square overflows with food stalls, dancers, acrobats, fortune tellers, musicians, and henna artists. Following your tour you will have the full day to spend at your leisure, whether its pampering yourself at a local spa with massage or further exploring the souks of the medina. Overnight Marrakech.

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel before escaping the hustle and bustle of Marrakech. We will cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, which reaches an altitude of 2,260 metres (7,415 feet) and is the highest mountain pass in North Africa. 

The road passes through various villages typical of the northern slopes of the Atlas, where corn can be seen ripening in the sun on the packed-earth roofs of the stone houses. We will continue across the territory of the powerful Glaoua tribe where a number of ancient kasbahs and fortified granaries can be seen dotting the countryside before we reach Ait Benhaddou, a fortified village classified by UNESCO as one of the world's cultural treasures. At Ait Benhaddou we will stop for lunch and to give you some time to explore the kasbah for yourself. Our journey will continue towards the Skoura Oasis, filled with dense palm groves crossed by a network of tracks running between kasbahs, ksours, and farms. 

We will journey to the captivating M'Goun Valley, known as the Valley of Roses due to the spectacle of blooming rose bushes in the spring; we Travel through the Dades Valley on the "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs," witnessing the fortresses of M'Goun and traditional Berber adobe houses nestled along the riversides where we will stop to explore a hidden gem, the remarkable rock formation called Monkey's Fingers.. Your overnight stay awaits in the scenic Dades Valley.

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Distance: 217 miles - 349 km

Average driving time: 6 hours (Excluding stops)

After breakfast, we will drive to Tinghir, a former military outpost on the banks of the Oued Todra, where olive, pomegranate, and orange trees flourish. The road through the Todra Gorges follows the right bank of the river, which is covered with palm trees and is one of the most beautiful oases in Morocco. 

We will continue farther east into the narrowest and most spectacular section of the gorges, where we will take some time to wander among the towering rock walls and narrow corridors. That afternoon we will leave for Erfoud, crossing the palm grove of Tinjdad and Touroug, and visit a workshop where local fossils are produced. Afterwards we will continue straight to the desert village of Merzouga, which lies right on the edge of the Erg Chebbi sand dunes. You will have a chance to leave all unnecessary luggage behind in safe rooms at a hotel before mounting your camel (or 4WD if you can't do the camels) and riding into the Moroccan Sahara. Your camel will take you to a Luxury Berber camp in the middle of the Erg Chebbi sand dunes, the highest in North Africa, with some dunes rising to 820 feet. 

The camp features well-equipped Luxury tents  with electric blankets, central heating system, mattresses, linens, toilets, a restaurant, and a kitchen. The evening will consist of stargazing and a Moroccan dinner followed by a traditional music show. We will spend the night in the silence of the desert, and you can relax outside and marvel at the Milky Way spreading across the pitch-black night sky.

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Distance: 170 miles - 273 km

Average driving time: 4 hours (Excluding stops)

By your request, our team will wake you at dawn for a mesmerizing desert sunrise, where the sand's colors blend with shadows on the dunes. After breakfast, enjoy a couple of hours of relaxation before an exhilarating 4WD off-road tour. Encounter desert nomads, explore the "Ghost Town" of Mifis, and witness fossil excavations; Mifis is an abandoned mining village where they excavate the ancient eye cosmetic of Kohl and quartz, here also you can still spot turtle, trilobites, Ammonites, and orthoceras fossils from the creatures which inhabited this ancient sea millions of years ago. 

Continue to Khamlia Village for unique Gnawa music that found its way through the Salt Route. After enjoying the live show of Gnawa spiritual music and having a home-made Berber pizza lunch, we might visit the seasonal lake of Srij. Explore the oasis, nomadic depository, and the vibrant market of Rissani. Return to the Kasbah for relaxation or optional activities (Quad-biking or dunes buggies). In the afternoon, ride camels or 4WD into Morocco's highest dunes, witness a captivating sunset, dine on Moroccan cuisine around the campfire, and enjoy traditional music. Spend the night in cozy Berber luxury tents, stargazing at the Milky Way in the serene desert silence.

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Distance: 23 miles - 37 km

Average driving time: 2 to 3 hours (Including stops)

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After breakfast, we will retrace our steps through Erfoud to the dramatic Ziz Gorge, a spectacular gash in the hills that surround the Ziz Oasis, the largest oasis in Morocco. The region is dotted with deserted kasbahs, palm trees, and mud-brick villages, and is a photographer's paradise. After passing through a barren plain of scrub and desert on the other side of the mountains, we will stop for lunch in the town of Midelt, from which we will have a fantastic view of the dramatic peaks of the High Atlas rising behind the town.

The different landscapes we will cross is unbelievably diverse, ranging from rocky, sun-baked plains to cedar-covered mountains and deep, spectacular canyons. In the hills south of Azrou we might be lucky enough to spot a troupe of the Barbary Apes that still make their home in the local forests. We head onward to Ifran, the Switzerland of Morocco. 

After having crossed the plains we will arrive in the evocative city of Fes, which is the cultural capital of Morocco and one of the most complete medieval Islamic cities in the world. Our guide will help you find your riad and leave you to settle in for the night.

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Distance: 291 miles - 469 km 

Average driving time: 7 hours (Excluding stops) 

After breakfast at the hotel, our expert local guide will lead you on a captivating walking tour of the Fes medina. Immerse yourself in the historic charm of winding alleyways, where donkeys and mules traverse narrow streets. Indulge your senses in the vibrant market, where spices and perfumes entice, and witness age-old leather-tanning techniques in the tanneries. 

Our Fes exploration continues with visits to iconic landmarks, including the Karaouine Mosque, Dar al-Magana, and the Zaouia al-Tijaniyya. Explore the Ech Cherabliyine Mosque and lively souks before discovering the UNESCO-recognized Fondouk el Nejjarine and its Musée de Bois. Indulge in a traditional lunch at a palace-restaurant, followed by Musée Dar Batha and Bab el-Ftouh. 

The tour concludes in Fes el-Jdid, unveiling the royal palace, Moulay Abdallah Quarter, Mellah, and Ville Nouvelle. A delightful dinner at a local medina restaurant precedes a restful evening at your hotel.

After breakfast, our adventure begins as you're whisked away from your riad in Fes to journey to Chefchaouen. En route, explore the grandeur of Meknes, known as the "Versailles of Morocco," with its majestic Bab Mansour Gate, historic Medina, and Moulay Ismail's shrine. 

Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Volubilis, revealing well-preserved Roman ruins adorned with intricate mosaics that unveil Morocco's ancient history. Visit Moulay Idriss, the holiest town in Morocco, and then ascend into the Rif Mountains, forming a dramatic entrance to Chefchaouen, the enchanting "Blue City." Upon arrival, settle into your Andalusian-style riad before strolling through the medina's white and blue-washed walls, exploring markets with unique local handicrafts. With its picturesque aesthetics and breathtaking mountain views, Chefchaouen is a photographer's dream. 

In the evening, savor a glass of red wine and a delectable tagine and couscous meal on the hotel's rooftop terraces, immersing yourself in the magic of the crystal-clear Moroccan night sky.

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Distance: 162 miles - 261 km 

Average driving time: 6 hours (Excluding stops) 

In the Morning, you will have an indulging tour of this striking blue-rinsed town, truly one of Morocco's must-see places and a hidden gem, tucked away in the Rif mountains. You will scroll through the local markets where you will see the unique offerings of the Moroccan highlands. - you might decide to engage with your guide to explore optional excursions, such as a thrilling 3-hour hike to God's Bridge and the Akchour waterfalls. 

The cascading waters, flowing over smooth jagged rocks, create a mesmerizing sight. Take in the breathtaking views while enjoying a refreshing juice or tea provided by local vendors who trek here every morning, adding an extra layer of adventure to your journey. 

In the afternoon you'll be able to relax and enjoy the calm atmosphere of the Rif Mountains. A a tranquil retreat overnight in Chefchaouen amidst this picturesque setting.

­Following a delightful sojourn in Chefchaouen, our journey unfolds with a scenic drive through the enchanting landscapes of the Rif Mountains. Meandering through the mountainous terrain, we'll be captivated by panoramic views and the unspoiled beauty of the region, - If time allows, we will visit both Tetouan and fortified seaside town Asilah-. 

We will continue to Rabat,  the political capital of Morocco; where we will Wander through charming streets adorned with historical landmarks, each narrating the tales of Rabat's past. From ancient architecture to lively markets, our coastal adventure guarantees a harmonious blend of storied history and cultural richness.

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Distance: 233 miles - 576 km 

Average driving time: 5 hours (Excluding stops) 

Following our exploration of Rabat, we'll bid farewell to the bustling atmosphere of Casablanca,  the commercial hub of Morocco, where we'll visit Hassan II Mosque, —the unique mosque where you can explore the interior, an architectural marvel and one of the largest mosques in the world. Then, we'll journey to the coastal haven of Essaouira. 

This charming seaside town, boasting expansive beaches and an ancient walled medina, has been a cherished retreat for Moroccans. Renowned for its lively arts scene, Essaouira is a hub for skilled woodcarvers and artists. The annual Gnaoua Music Festival in June adds a rhythmic charm to the town. Roam along the historic ramparts, immerse yourself in the laid-back ambiance of the medina, or visit the bustling port to savor the day's fresh catch. 

Our evening will be a culinary delight with dinner in Essaouira, and we'll relax for the night in a peaceful local hotel.

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Distance: 285 miles - 548 km 

Average driving time: 6 hours  (Excluding stops and depends on traffic)

We will leave the coastal town of Essaouira for Marrakech. Returning to Marrakech will involve a leisurely journey through verdant valleys dotted with old olive trees, orange orchards, and cooperatives producing argan oil. 

Afternoon at leisure; consider visiting a spa or Moroccan hammam, taking a local cookery class, or maybe taking a donkey cart ride around the city. Whatever the situation, our guide is available to assist with recommendations, details, and planning.

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Distance: 115 miles / 185 km

Average driving time: 3 hours  (Excluding stops and depends on traffic)

We will make as much use of our time as possible, wandering around the souks of Marrakech and finding souvenirs or gifts for friends before we take you to Marrakech Menara airport with plenty of time to catch your departure flight.