Day 1: Casablanca – Rabat
We will meet you upon your arrival at Casablanca airport to start your 11 Day Tour of Morocco. Then will visit the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, the largest mosque outside Mecca and known to have the greatest minaret in all of Africa. We then continue to Rabat, the capital of Morocco. You will see the Hassan Tower and the Oudaya Kasbah before you check into your overnight accommodation at a riad at the heart of the medina.
11 Days Tour of Morocco
Day 2: Rabat – Chefchaouen
After breakfast in your riad, we drive mainly along the stunning coastline over the foothills of the Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen. Chefchaouen, the ‘Blue City’ is beautiful and unique, with its white-washed walls and blue doors and windows. Unlike many parts of Morocco, Chefchaouen was occupied by the Spanish and this influence is clearly visible in the Moorish architecture. You will get to explore this captivating Imperial city, with a narrow street decorated with flowers. Overnight in a traditional Moroccan riad.
Day 4: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes
After breakfast in your riad, we begin our journey to Fes via the Ismaili city of Meknes where we’ll see the Bab El Mansour gate and the sacred Moulay Idris Zerhoun. We will also stop at the Roman site of Volubilis. These well-preserved Roman ruins date back to 225 BC. You will tour the site, learning about the Roman Empire in this area and seeing the most beautiful mosaics dating back to the 3rd century BC. We then continue via the highway to Fes. Overnight accommodation at a riad in the heart of the medina.
After breakfast, we start our journey south to Merzouga and the Sahara Desert via Midelt and Errachidia. The first stop is at Ifrane city, referred to as ‘the Switzerland of Morocco’, and then to Merzouga via Midlet and the Ziz Valley. During this journey, you’ll experience glimpses of the Middle Atlas and Higher Atlas Mountains. Along the way, we will stop at a cedar forest where you will have the opportunity to see Barbarian Apes. As we drive, you’ll notice how the scenery changes to reveal hints of the desert as you approach Er Rachidia city. After lunch in Midelt, we continue along the spectacular Ziz Valley, stopping for panoramic views along the way.
We continue through the Berber villages of Erfoud and Rissani (the foundation of the Alaouite dynasty and the current ruling royal family of Morocco). Arriving in Merzouga at the end of the day, you’ll be welcomed with a glass of mint tea before settling into your accommodation.
Day 6: Merzouga and Camel Trek
After breakfast in the riad, we explore the outlying area of Merzouga. You’ll visit the Gnawa people, originally slaves brought from Sudan, to experience their music and lifestyle. In the afternoon you will start your guided camel trek, led by an experienced camel man to explore the sand sea of Merzouga. Overnight at our well-equipped desert camp where you will have your dinner and enjoy Berber drums under an endless starry sky.
Day 7: Merzouga – Quarzazate
If you wake up early, you may experience what may be the best sunrise of your life. As you slowly wend your way back to Merzouga on your camel, you won’t fail to appreciate the unique beauty of the dunes in the changing with the light. After breakfast, you’ll leave for Rissani, Tinghir, and Todra Gorges. These are the highest, narrowest gorges in Morocco. We will also drive through the Dades Valley, where you’ll see the majestic sand castles and amazing rock formations known as ‘monkey toes’. We journey on to Ouarzazate, the Hollywood of Morocco, where you will spend the night.
Day 8: Quarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – Marrakech
After breakfast, we journey to Marrakech via the Tizi n’ Tichka Pass. Passing through the ‘Valley of Roses,’ stop at Kalaat M’gouna for rosewater. Explore the renowned Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, the largest in Morocco, built by T-hami El Glaoui in the 19th century. The kasbah, now housing Glaoui family members, served as a vital trading post. Continue over the majestic Tizi n’ Tichka Pass (2260m) in the High Atlas Mountains. Overnight in an authentic riad in the Marrakech medina.
Day 9: Exploring Marrakech
After breakfast, enjoy a guided city walk, visiting Menara Gardens, Kotoubia Minaret, Saadian Tombs, and Bahia Palace. Explore Djemaa El Fnaa Square, featuring storytellers, dancers, and snake charmers. Overnight at the same riad.
Day 10: Day Trip to Essaouira
After riad breakfast, travel to Essaouira, known as Morocco’s ‘Jewel of the Atlantic.’ Explore the town, visit Skala Fortress, the port, medina alleys, and souks. See Thuya wood craftsmanship, Mellah (Jewish quarter), and the beach. Enjoy a Moroccan lunch with freshly bought fish. Return to Marrakech, stopping at a women’s cooperative to witness argan oil extraction. Overnight in the same riad.
Day 11: Marrakech – Airport Transfer
You may have time to explore a bit more of Marrakech depending on your departure time. We will ensure you get to the airport in time for your flight.
