14 days - Authentic Morocco tour

Following breakfast, our journey unfolds towards the mountains, with a delightful stopover in Rabat and a picturesque lunch by the captivating Atlantic coastline. Continuing our expedition, we ascend into the majestic Rif Mountains, creating a striking approach to the enchanting town of Chefchaouen. This vividly blue-hued gem, nestled like a sapphire among the rugged mountain crests, awaits your exploration. 

Once settled in the Riad for the night, take some leisurely time to wander through the enchanting blue and white alleys of the medina and peruse the distinctive local crafts markets. Chefchaouen, with its unique aesthetic framed against the backdrop of breathtaking mountains, is a haven for photographers. As night falls, savor a traditional meal on one of the hotel's three rooftop terraces, followed by unwinding under the crystal-clear Moroccan night sky, creating an unforgettable end to your day.

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.

After breakfast we will continue our journey to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the best preserved Roman ruins in North Africa. This important Roman town features detailed and gorgeous mosaics that will give you a unique perspective on Morocco's ancient history. We will also visit the nearby town of Moulay Idriss, where Moulay Idriss I, who brought Islam to Morocco, is entombed. Moulay Idriss is considered to be the holiest town in Morocco. 

From Moulay Idriss we will continue to Meknes, often called the "Versailles of Morocco" due to the grandeur and intricacy of its buildings and monuments. We will take some time to explore its highlights, including the massive Bab Mansour Gate, the old Medina, and Moulay Ismail's shrine. From Meknes we will continue to Fes, where we will check in at your hotel before having dinner and settling in for the night.

Following breakfast at the hotel, our accredited local guide will accompany you on a walking tour of the Fes medina. Step back in time as you wander through the labyrinth of twisting alleyways - donkeys and mules pass through the narrow streets, savour the aromas from the market stalls where countless spices and perfumes are traded, and explore the leather tanneries where men treat leather using century old techniques. We’ll cap the day with dinner at one of the many local restaurants of the medina then settle in for the evening at your hotel.

We continue our journey onwards from Fes to Ifrane, through hills blanketed in forests of cork oak and giant cedar, where a few Barbary apes still call home. Passing through the Middle and High Atlas ranges, we will catch our first glimpse of Southern Morocco’s unique architectural style and stop for lunch overlooking a breathtaking view of the dramatic peaks of the High Atlas rising behind the town of Midelt. 

As we descend into the desert plains, the view changes from dramatic mountain peaks to an expansive oasis punctuated by countless Ksours (fortified villages), which then give way to a vast stony plain that marks the edges of the Sahara. Once among the dunes, you will be welcomed into a charming Kasbah where you will be able to relax beside the swimming pool, and enjoy the tunes of a desert blues band well into the evening.

Watching the sun rise amongst the dunes is a magical experience, and not to be missed. Your breakfast will be waiting for you upon your return, after which you will have the opportunity to visit the nomadic communities around Merzouga, stopping for tea in the souks, and enjoying the traditional Gnawa music. 

Following lunch and Ass the mid-day sun wanes, we will continue to the sand dunes of the Moroccan Sahara; here, we will have ample free time for you to explore and take in the beauty and vastness of the desert dunes. Once the sun sets, a Moroccan dinner will be served alongside live music around the campfire, after which you are free to explore again - this time in the company of a million stars exploding against the pitch-black sky, and the all-encompassing silence of the Sahara at night.

Our adventure begins with a mesmerizing desert sunrise, where the golden rays paint the vast expanse of sand in hues of orange and pink.

As we make our way towards Dades Valley, we pass through the enchanting Todgha Gorges. These towering canyons, carved by nature over centuries, offer a truly awe-inspiring sight. The sheer magnitude of the cliffs and the crystal-clear waters flowing through them create a surreal atmosphere that will leave you speechless.

Dades Valley itself is a hidden gem nestled amidst the rugged Atlas Mountains. This picturesque region is known for its stunning landscapes, dotted with lush green palm groves and traditional Berber villages. As we explore this serene valley, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and witness traditional farming practices that have been passed down through generations.

After breakfast we will drive through the villages of this charming area, passing fields cultivated by Berber women and getting some brilliant views of the Atlas Mountains. Our journey will continue towards Ouarzazate, going off-road along the piste to visit Berber nomads in their caves and join them for a glass of tea. 

From here, we will continue through the Valley of the Roses, famous for its Rose Festival in May, and past the "Road of 1000 Kasbahs" by the Skoura Oasis before arriving in Ouarzazate. In Ouarzazate, also known as the “Hollywood of Morocco”, we will visit the Taouirirt Kasbah and the cinematographic museum before continuing on to Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, the most famous kasbah in Morocco, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the backdrop for many Hollywood blockbusters such as “Gladiator” “Indiana Jones” and “Lawrence of Arabia”. 

You will have the chance to explore some of the ruined buildings and climb to the top of the hill where the agadir (granary) offers a spectacular view over the village and the surrounding countryside. You may also want to enter one of the houses and share a glass of mint tea with some of the locals to gain a better understanding of their way of life. In the afternoon you'll drive north across the High Atlas Mountains. The road, completed by the French Foreign Legion in 1936, winds up over the Tizi n'Tichka Pass and offers stunning views over the mountains before descending past Berber villages to the plains surrounding Marrakech. Even today, the name Marrakech conjures up scenery from Arabian Nights - alleyways, souks, and market stalls. This remarkable city, with the graceful architecture of the renowned 11th-century Koutoubia Minaret dominating the skyline, never fails to satisfy the curiosity of its visitors. We will arrive back in Marrakech by late afternoon.

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. We will spend the night at our hotel in Marrakech.

Departing Marrakech after breakfast, we make our way through lush valleys filled with orange groves, ancient olive trees, and argan oil cooperatives to the quaint seaside town of Essaouira. This windswept fishing port with its broad beaches and an ancient walled medina, has long been a popular vacation destination for Moroccans. It is also a creative hub where many of the country's wood carvers and artists have made their home, and each year, hosts the Gnaouas Music Festival in the month of June. 

Stroll along the ramparts and beach as you take in the relaxed vibe of its small but lively medina, or visit the port to savour the catch of the day. We will have dinner in Essaouira and spend the night in a tranquil local hotel.

Breakfast is served at your riad, and it’s time to explore Essaouria at your leisure. Meet local artists in their studios and browse their artwork, or head to the lively fish market for a savory lunch of fresh grilled fish caught just this morning. A short walk along the beach at low tide reveals the crumbling ruins of the fort of Borj El Barod, and a boat ride to the island of Mogador offers glimpses of the rare Eleanora's falcon. Should you fancy watersports, you may even want to try one of the many offered on the popular local beaches, including surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, bodyboarding, and kayaking. 

If you are feeling somewhat tired from your travels, Essaouria is a perfect place to recoup - simply sit in one of the many beachside cafes on Place Moulay Hassan, relax, and watch the waves roll in with a mint tea and a Moroccan pastry. We will once again spend the night in our Essaouira riad. 

On this final day of your Moroccan adventure, we will leave Essaouria and journey back to the bustling city of Casablanca, continuing up the coastline through quiet coastal towns to El Jadida where we may pay a visit to the citadel and be able to see the underground cistern. Upon our arrival in Casablanca we will have dinner and spend the night at our hotel.

As we bid you farewell, we will help you with any departure formalities and arrange for your transfers to the airport. We hope you enjoyed your journey with us, and hope to see you again soon.