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Tour Overview
Discover the beauty of Morocco in this 12-day Grand Discovery Tour, a complete immersion into the kingdom’s history, culture, and dramatic landscapes, starting from Casablanca. This journey masterfully combines visits to the historic Imperial Cities (Rabat, Fes, Meknes, and Marrakech) with the exotic charm of the North and the unforgettable adventure of the Sahara Desert. Highlights include exploring the bustling coastal city of Tangier, the famous blue streets of Chefchaouen, navigating the ancient Medina of Fes, enjoying a magical camel trek to a desert camp in Erg Chebbi, and traveling the spectacular “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” before concluding in the vibrant heart of Marrakech. This tour is the ultimate blend of historical discovery and breathtaking natural wonder
Welcome to Morocco. Upon arrival at Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in Casablanca, you will be warmly greeted by your private driver/guide. Following a brief orientation outlining your itinerary, your journey will commence in Casablanca, Morocco’s vital economic and business capital.
The focal point of your exploration will be the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, an architectural masterpiece and the largest mosque in the country. This visit will allow you to admire the remarkable art deco design, which showcases a wonderful integration of Moorish influences prevalent in Moroccan architecture.
Casablanca is the nation’s largest metropolis, characterized by its modern infrastructure, distinct white buildings, and notable French art deco style, often referenced globally through the iconic 1942 film. Your introduction to the city will conclude with a smooth drive along the picturesque Atlantic seaside where you will have lunch by the beach.
Following this significant visit, we will continue our journey north, driving directly to Rabat, the elegant political and administrative capital of the Kingdom. Upon arrival, you will check into your designated hotel accommodation.
Accommodation: Overnight stay at a riad in the heart of the medina (bed and breakfast included).
After breakfast, we will spend the morning exploring the highlights of Rabat, which blends imperial history with modern elegance. Our essential visits include the impressive Hassan Tower (a 12th-century minaret) and the adjacent Mausoleum of Mohammed V, which houses the tombs of the former king and his two sons. We will also explore the charming Kasbah of the Udayas, a fortified 12th-century military fortress with whitewashed and blue-painted walls.
Later on, we will embark on the scenic drive north towards Tangier. This journey follows the Atlantic coast, transitioning from the political capital to Morocco’s vibrant gateway to Europe. Upon arrival in Tangier, you will check into your hotel.
Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel in Tangier. Bed and breakfast included.
Today, we will begin a fascinating day of exploration in Tangier, the legendary city where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic.
Our tour starts at the mythical Caves of Hercules (Grottoes of Hercules), an archaeological wonder known for its opening shaped like the African continent and its connection to the Greek legend of Hercules. Immediately nearby, we will visit Cape Spartel, the picturesque headland that serves as the precise geographical point where the vast waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea converge, offering spectacular ocean views.
We then return to the city to immerse ourselves in the historic heart of Tangier. We will explore the Old Medina, navigating its winding lanes to discover the city’s rich history and architectural blend. Highlights include the Kasbah (fortress), the bustling Grand Socco (market square), and the quieter Petit Socco, absorbing the unique cultural atmosphere that has long attracted artists and writers.
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Tangier.
After a delightful breakfast at your riad or hotel, we will depart for Chefchaouen, the renowned “Blue Pearl” nestled high in the Rif Mountains. This scenic drive takes you through a captivating tapestry of rugged mountains, lush valleys, and traditional Berber villages, offering beautiful panoramic views along the way. Upon arrival, and after checking into your Riad, you will be instantly captivated by the town’s unique charm, defined by its mesmerizing Medina, where nearly every building, wall, and walkway is washed in brilliant shades of blue and white, creating an incredibly tranquil and photogenic atmosphere.
Your exploration will focus on Uta el-Hammam, the main square and vibrant heart of the cobblestone Medina. Here, you will have the opportunity to relax at a café terrace and admire the Grand Mosque, notable for its octagonal minaret, which draws architectural inspiration from the Torre de Oro in Seville, underscoring the strong Andalusian influence. Further highlights include the historic Kasbah and its gardens, featuring ancient walls and eleven crenellated towers—one of which houses an engaging ethnographic museum. The colorful local souks (markets) provide a cultural immersion, offering a chance to observe traditionally dressed inhabitants, often identified by their distinctive straw hats.
Accommodation: Overnight stay at a Riad on a bed and breakfast basis.
Today we will leave for Fez, “The Spiritual and Cultural Capital of Morocco,” via the Roman Empire of Volubilis for a guided visit of the impressive Roman Ruins as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. This archeological site dates back to the 3rd century B.C. and is located at the foothills of the Mid-Atlas Mountains near the town of Moulay Idris Zerhoun.
Volubilis covers an area of 42 hectares and showcases urban development at the frontiers of the Roman Empire. It has produced many art materials, such as mosaics, marble, and bronze sculptures.
This site is also considered important to various civilizations like the Libyco-Berber, Mauritanian, Roman, Christian, and Arabo-Islamic. It is a testimony to their history, beliefs, and artistic works.
Later on we’ll continue driving towards Meknes, “The Ismaili Capital,” built by Sultan Moulay Ismail, where we will have lunch and explore some parts of its Medina. Starting with the impressive 18th-century Bab Mansour, the ornamental gate to the imperial city of Meknes, we’ll also visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and the massive Heri Souani, which was his personal stable and granary for his 12,000 horses.
After visiting the city of Meknes, we will leave towards Fez.
Accommodation: Overnight stay in a Riad located in the heart of the old Medina with bed and breakfast.
Following breakfast at your Riad, we will embark on a comprehensive explorative journey through Fes Medina, the intellectual and cultural capital of Morocco. Our day is dedicated to uncovering the profound historical and cultural landmarks within the labyrinthine alleys and small streets of the ancient Medina.
The guided tour will commence with a visit to the Royal Palace and the historic Mellah (Jewish Quarter)—the first ever established in Morocco.
We will ensure all sites of significant cultural and historical interest are covered, including:
Al Quaraouine University: Exploring the exterior of the oldest continuously operating educational institution in the world.
The Tanneries: Observing the traditional, centuries-old process of leatherworking.
After lunch, our journey continues with a visit to a local ceramic school/factory, where you can observe the intricate craftsmanship Fes is famous for. The day will conclude with a stop at a high vantage point, offering a breathtaking panoramic view over the vast, historic Medina of Fes.
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Fes.
After breakfast, your all-day trip from Fes to Merzouga begins, traveling through the diverse landscapes of the Atlas Mountains.
The trip starts by taking you through Ifrane, a unique mountain town often called “the Switzerland of Morocco,” before reaching the large Cedar Forest. You will stop in the Berber town of Azrou here to see the forest and look for the wild Barbary apes.
You then drive on toward Midelt, passing through the beautiful Tizi N’ Talghamt Pass and the Ziz Gorge. As you travel, you will see the high mountain views change and start to look like the desert as you near Errachidia, where you will stop for lunch and enjoy local Berber kindness.
In the afternoon, you will drive along the green Ziz Valley with its long line of palm trees, making stops to enjoy the beautiful views before going through Erfoud. You will arrive in Merzouga in the late afternoon. You will be welcomed with a glass of traditional mint tea before going to your Riad.
Accommodation : (Dinner, bed, and breakfast included).
After a luxury breakfast, you will start a full-day exploration of the fascinating desert surroundings of Merzouga. The journey begins with a visit to Erfoud, a town famed for its marine fossils, where you have the optional opportunity to visit a working fossil workshop. Next, you will travel to Rissani, the historical origin of the Moroccan ruling family and a vital hub for ancient caravan trade routes stretching as far as Timbuktu. Here, you will explore the exotic, traditional souk (market) and may choose to visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, the founder of the Alaouite Dynasty. The exploration continues to the unique village of Khamlia, home to the Gnawa people, descendants of sub-Saharan slaves. You will experience their vibrant, spiritual music and have the chance to sample the local specialty, the delicious Berber Pizza, for lunch. The day culminates with a transfer to the camel meeting point for a mesmerizing sunset trek across the magnificent Erg Chebbi Sand Dunes. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the dunes in striking red and orange hues, you will arrive at your destination: a luxury nomadic tent camp. The evening includes a traditional dinner, followed by an unforgettable night of Berber music and storytelling beneath the vast, starlit canopy of the Sahara.
Accommodation: dinner, bed, and breakfast
Today, you will wake up early to witness a picturesque desert sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes before enjoying breakfast at the camp. Afterward, you will take a camel ride back to Merzouga town, where you will meet your driver to begin the journey toward the Dades Valley. The first major stop is the Ziz Oasis, where you will learn about the region’s ancient irrigation systems. The tour continues to the magnificent Todra Gorges; here, you will enjoy a serene walk along the river, passing through a beautiful valley lined with date palms, culminating in the spectacular towering cliffs often utilized for rock climbing and picnics. Following lunch, the route leads to the Dades Valley. This region is renowned for its captivating landscape, featuring unique and astonishing rock formations carved by millions of years of natural erosion. Your day concludes with an overnight stay and dinner at a riad offering panoramic views overlooking the Dades Valley.
Accommodation: dinner, bed, and breakfast
After breakfast at your Riad, you will embark on a journey from the Dades Valley towards Kalaa M’gouna and Ouarzazate. This picturesque segment is known as the “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs,” offering abundant opportunities for capturing stunning photographic shots of the historic mud-brick fortresses. The drive continues through the fertile Rose Valley, punctuated by unique rock formations, leading you to a stop in Kalaat M’gouna, the famous “Rose City.” Here, you may wish to purchase the renowned local rosewater—a perfect souvenir to keep your linens fragrant long after your trip.
The journey proceeds through Skoura and the “Bird’s Valley,” featuring a visit to Kasbah Ameridil, a beautifully preserved 19th-century fortress. You will then continue to Ouarzazate, widely known as “the Hollywood of Africa,” whose striking geography and landscapes have attracted numerous world-class movie producers. You will have the option to visit the film studios, which house props and sets used in famous movies such as Gladiator, The Mummy, and The Last Temptation of Christ.
The final stage of the day involves crossing the High Atlas Mountains via a scenic route of the Tizi N Tichka pass with an altitude of 2260 m that offers many panoramic views and glimpses of authentic Berber villages. Your destination is the beautiful “Red City” of Marrakech, where your day concludes with an overnight stay in a riad nestled within the historic Medina.
Inclusions: Bed and Breakfast (BB)
After breakfast, you will be escorted by a local tour guide to explore the city of Marrakech. You will visit the main historical monuments, including the gorgeous Bahia Palace built in the 19th century, the Koranic School of Ben Youssef, and the Koutoubia Mosque built in the 12th century. You will also visit the famous souks, a great place for shopping where you can buy presents for your family, friends, or yourselves. Relax in the Majorelle Gardens, a peaceful space in the New Town with exotic botanical plants brought from all over the world. You will finish your tour in the main square of Jamaa el-Fna with its storytellers, snake charmers, musicians, acrobats, and open-air food stalls. You will also have free time to enjoy a soft drink in one of the cafes, where you can get amazing panoramic views across the square.
Accommodation riad with bed, and breakfast
Following a memorable journey throughout Morocco, your 12-Day Grand Discovery: North, Imperial Cities & Desert concludes today. We will ensure a seamless transfer from your accommodation to the airport, arriving three hours prior to your scheduled flight departure time, allowing ample time for check-in and security procedures.
Thank you for your visit.
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