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Tour Overview
Discover the beauty of Morocco with this 15-day, 14-night itinerary focused on the Imperial Cities of Marrakech, Fez, Meknes, and Rabat through the North, the Sahara Desert of Erg Chebbi, and the Road of the Thousand Kasbahs.
Encounter the Beautiful Andalusian Architecture in Casablanca and Rabat. Stroll through the bustling city of Marrakech, and explore the Medina’s souks, fondouks, madrasas, palaces, and secret gardens. Cross over the High Atlas Mountains and explore the vast landscapes.
This 15-day Morocco Imperial City Tour is a great choice for those in search of a slice of Morocco’s culture and history and also a chance for travelers to connect with the local culture by discovering historic sites, museums, mosques, imperial cities, and traditional cuisine and meeting with the Berbers, the indigenous people of North Africa, still living a traditional lifestyle.
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.
Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel (bed and breakfast).
After your breakfast at the hotel, we will leave for Rabat, “The Main Capital and the Administrative City in Morocco.” The drive will be through the highway, which normally takes less than 2 hours.
In Rabat we will visit the Unfinished Mosque Tower of Hassan, which dates back to the 12th Century under the Almohad Dynasty. You will also visit the Mausoleum of Mohamed V, built by Hassan II and dedicated to his father, Mohamed V, for honoring him as the father of independence. Later on, you will visit the 12th-century Kasbah of Oudaya with its beautiful Andalusian Garden, including a fantastic view over the Atlantic Coast and Bouregrag River.
Accommodation: Check-in and overnight stay at a traditional Riad, locted in the heart of the Medina (bed & breakfast included).
After your breakfast at the Riad, our day begins with a scenic drive towards the captivating Blue City of Chefchaouen, dramatically nestled within the Rif Mountains.
Upon arrival, we will immediately commence a comprehensive walking tour, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s distinct and powerful charm. Chefchaouen’s unique aesthetic is instantly recognizable: the Medina’s streets, doorways, and buildings are famously adorned in brilliant shades of blue, creating a truly unforgettable visual experience.
Our 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.
Following breakfast at the Riad, we embark on a beautiful explorative journey to the mountain village of Akchour, located approximately 30 kilometers from Chefchaouen. Akchour serves as the gateway to the stunning natural landscapes of the Rif Mountains.
Today is dedicated to immersing ourselves in Morocco’s nature with a guided hiking tour to the spectacular God’s Bridge. This remarkable site is a naturally formed arch spanning a verdant valley, standing out as one of the region’s most magnificent natural wonders.
The hike begins in Talassemtane National Park, guiding us through lush landscapes and the dramatic Farda Canyon. Along the way, we will pass refreshing natural pools and cascading waterfalls before reaching the iconic natural bridge. Ample time will be provided to appreciate God’s Bridge before returning to Chefchaouen.
Key Highlights of the Hike:
Guided Exploration: Trek through the Rif Mountains with an experienced local guide.
Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, including various bird species.
Photography: Capture stunning images of the dramatic mountainous scenery.
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Chefchaouen.
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
After a luxurious breakfast at your Riad, you will depart for the beautiful Ourika Valley, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech’s Medina and souks. This day trip provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the stunning natural beauty of the Atlas Mountains and explore the diverse region surrounding the city. The scenic route follows the valley, crossing a multitude of traditional Berber villages, allowing you to observe the unique lifestyle of the local inhabitants. A significant part of the journey runs along the Ourika River, which originates high in the Atlas range.
Upon reaching the small town of Setti-Fatma, you will be joined by a local mountain guide for an approximately two-hour trek to visit the beautiful valley waterfalls. The first waterfalls are easily accessible, while subsequent ones offer a more challenging climb. After trekking, the Ourika Valley day trip is a perfect opportunity to savor delicious Moroccan rural cuisine. You may choose to enjoy lunch or a refreshing mint tea at one of the riverside terraces and restaurants, placing your tables right next to the flowing water for a truly relaxing experience. In the afternoon, you will return to Marrakech, allowing for a free evening to relax at your Riad or explore the vibrant Medina by night.
Today, we journey towards the coastal city of Essaouira. This route provides a fascinating opportunity to observe the famed Argan trees, which are ecologically and economically vital to the region. Keep an eye out for the unique sight of local goats often perched in the trees, feeding on the leaves and fruit. We will make a meaningful stop at a women’s argan oil co-operative, where you will have the chance to learn firsthand about the traditional production methods and the wide-ranging applications of argan oil, from valuable cosmetics to traditional medicines. After several panoramic stops for photography, we will continue our scenic travel directly to the charming city of Essaouira where you will have a free afternoon at leisure after you check into your riad
overnight accommodation with bed and breakfast.
Today, you will start exploring the city’s key historical and cultural sites. Your itinerary includes a visit to the imposing Skala de la Kasbah (Fortress), offering stunning coastal views, and the vibrant fishing port. You will then delve into the charming labyrinth of the Medina, navigating the intricate souks and admiring the craftsmanship, particularly the highly valued Thuya wood carvings produced by local artisans. Essaouira is known for its distinctive, laid-back atmosphere, created by a harmonious blend of local culture and international influences. The city is a particular haven for windsurfers due to its consistent Atlantic trade winds and clean waters, a feature that has historically protected the town from large-scale commercial development, thus preserving its unique character. The day concludes with check-in, dinner, and an overnight stay at your hotel or Riad.
Following a memorable journey throughout Morocco, your 15-Day Imperial City Tour 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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