Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Marrakech Airport

Marrakech at Leisure

Upon arrival at Marrakech Airport, we will greet you with a sign displaying "Best Travel" and take you directly to your hotel. You will have some free time to relax and adjust to your new surroundings. An optional dinner will be available in the evening, where you can meet your fellow travelers and discuss the upcoming adventure.

Day 2: Marrakech Sightseeing, Escorted by an Official Local Guide

Marrakech → Atlas Mountains → Ait Benhaddou → Ouarzazate → Skoura Oasis → Roses Valley → Dades Valley

We will meet you in Marrakech and begin our journey out of the city, heading toward the towering High Atlas Mountains. Our drive will take us through the highest mountain pass in North Africa, passing through the Glaoua region where you will witness numerous ancient kasbahs and fortified granaries scattered across the landscape. The views are breathtaking as we continue toward Ouarzazate, a bustling southern Moroccan city often called "The Hollywood of Morocco," thanks to its use as a filming location for movies like Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, Kingdom of Heaven, and several seasons of Game of Thrones.After stopping for lunch in Ouarzazate, we will visit the famous Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, one of Morocco's most iconic and well-preserved kasbahs, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a backdrop for many popular films. As the day wanes, we will drive through several oases and end the day in the verdant Dades Valley, where we will spend the night.

Day 3: Marrakech to the Majestic Dades Valley

Marrakech → Atlas Mountains → Ait Benhaddou → Ouarzazate → Skoura Oasis → Roses Valley → Dades Valley

We will meet you in Marrakech and begin our journey out of the city, heading toward the towering High Atlas Mountains. Our drive will take us through the highest mountain pass in North Africa, passing through the Glaoua region where you will witness numerous ancient kasbahs and fortified granaries scattered across the landscape. The views are breathtaking as we continue toward Ouarzazate, a bustling southern Moroccan city often called "The Hollywood of Morocco," thanks to its use as a filming location for movies like Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, Kingdom of Heaven, and several seasons of Game of Thrones.After stopping for lunch in Ouarzazate, we will visit the famous Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, one of Morocco's most iconic and well-preserved kasbahs, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a backdrop for many popular films. As the day wanes, we will drive through several oases and end the day in the verdant Dades Valley, where we will spend the night.

Day 4: Dades Valley to the Golden Dunes of Erg Chebbi, Merzouga

Dades Valley → Todra Canyon → Rissani → Merzouga

After breakfast, we will continue our journey along the banks of the Oued Todra, where the fertile land supports an abundance of olive, pomegranate, and orange trees. We will stop at the Todra Gorge, a magnificent canyon with towering rock walls that create narrow passageways, perfect for a scenic walk. From here, we head into the desert plains, passing through vast stony landscapes that mark the edge of the Sahara.Upon reaching Merzouga, we will leave unnecessary luggage behind at a nearby hotel and set off on a camel trek into the Sahara Desert. Your adventure into the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi will give you a chance to explore the magnificent desert landscape and soak in the vast, silent beauty of the Sahara. As the sun sets, we will gather for a traditional Moroccan dinner served around a campfire, accompanied by live music. You will have free time to wander under the starlit sky, experiencing the tranquility and silence of the desert at night.

Day 5: Merzouga – Nomadic Culture and Traditions

Tea with Nomads, Gnawa Music, Optional Desert Activities

Wake up early to witness the desert sunrise, followed by a hearty breakfast. After some relaxation, you can join a 4WD off-road excursion around the dunes. During this adventure, we will visit the oasis of Merzouga, the nomadic depository, and the village of Khamlia. Here, the local Gnawa people, descendants of former slaves brought to Morocco via the Salt Route from Senegal, will offer a captivating performance of traditional music.We will also visit a group of nomadic families living in the desert, where you will get a glimpse of their unique way of life. Afterward, we will stop by Lake Merzouga, which is home to various species of birds. Enjoy a homemade Berber pizza for lunch before returning to our kasbah, where you’ll be greeted with a glass of refreshing tea. Spend the rest of the day relaxing by the pool or take advantage of the optional desert activities available, such as horse riding, ATV quads, or dune buggy excursions.In the late afternoon, you can take another camel ride to watch the sunset, or opt for an ATV or dune buggy tour back to your desert camp, where you will spend another night under the stars.

Day 6: Desert Sunrise, Oases, Monkeys, and the Cultural Capital of Morocco – Fes

Merzouga → Erfoud → Ziz Valley → Midelt → Azrou Forest → Ifrane → Fes

After breakfast, we head back toward Fes, passing through Erfoud and the dramatic Ziz Valley, a breathtaking natural gorge that cuts through the surrounding hills. This region is dotted with palm trees, kasbahs, and mud-brick villages. The diverse landscapes we cross range from sun-scorched plains to lush, green valleys.In Midelt, enjoy a stop for lunch with a view of the majestic peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. As we continue, you will be amazed by the transition to cedar forests, and, if you're lucky, we may spot a troop of Barbary Apes that live in these woods. The journey continues toward Ifrane, often called the "Switzerland of Morocco," with its European-style architecture and scenic surroundings.Finally, we will arrive in Fes, one of the most well-preserved medieval Islamic cities in the world and Morocco’s cultural capital. You will be dropped off at your riad to relax and prepare for the following day’s exploration.

Day 7: Fes Sightseeing with a Local Guide

After breakfast, you will begin your guided tour of Fes, starting with the Merenid Tombs, which offer panoramic views of the city. You will then visit the Musée des Armes, a fortress that once protected the city, now home to a collection of over 8,000 pieces of artillery.Next, we head into the Fes el Bali, the old medina, where the maze of narrow streets is too tight for cars, so donkeys and mules are still the main form of transport. You will explore the ancient Karaouine Mosque, one of the oldest in the world, which was also the first university in Morocco.Continue through the medina to visit other highlights, such as the Dar al-Magana (a 14th-century water clock), the Zaouia al-Tijaniyya, and the Ech Cherabliyine Mosque, also known as the Mosque of the Slipper-makers.Lunch will be enjoyed in one of the fine palace-restaurants in the medina, offering a variety of Moroccan tapas. Afterward, you’ll explore the Musée Dar Batha, a museum showcasing traditional Moroccan arts, including pottery, leatherwork, and manuscripts.The afternoon includes a visit to the Andalusian Quarter, followed by a tour of the Fes el-Jdid, where you can explore the royal palace and the Jewish Quarter, as well as other fascinating sections of the city.

Day 8: Fes to Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl

Fes → Volubilis → Moulay Idriss → Meknes → Rif Mountains → Chefchaouen

In the morning, we will leave Fes and visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, where you can marvel at the well-preserved mosaics that offer a glimpse into Morocco’s Roman past. We will then visit the holy town of Moulay Idriss before continuing to Meknes, one of Morocco's imperial cities, often referred to as the "Versailles of Morocco" due to its grandeur and impressive architecture.In Meknes, we will visit important landmarks such as Bab Mansour, Sahrij Souani, and the historic medina. Afterward, we journey into the Rif Mountains, where we will ascend to the town of Chefchaouen. Known as the "Blue Pearl," Chefchaouen is famous for its distinctive blue-painted buildings, set against a backdrop of dramatic mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your riad and have the rest of the evening to stroll through the medina and explore the vibrant markets. Enjoy a relaxing dinner with local specialties such as Tagine and Couscous on a rooftop terrace.

Day 9: Chefchaouen Sightseeing

In the morning, you will explore the charming blue city of Chefchaouen with its winding streets and vibrant market. The town is renowned for its unique blue-painted walls, creating a tranquil and photogenic atmosphere.For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, you can opt for a 4-hour hike to the Akchour waterfalls, a stunning natural site located in the Rif Mountains. Afterward, spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this small mountain town.

Day 10: Chefchaouen to Rabat

Chefchaouen → Asilah → Rabat

Leaving Chefchaouen behind, we travel to the coastal town of Asilah, known for its white-washed walls, tranquil beaches, and artistic murals. After a leisurely stroll along the coastline and a chance to admire the town’s artwork, we continue south to the capital city of Rabat.In Rabat, you’ll visit the Hassan Tower, a grand monument begun by the Almohad dynasty, the Mohammed V Mausoleum, and the Kasbah des Oudayas, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the ocean. The Kasbah is also home to artisan workshops, where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs.

Day 11: Rabat to Casablanca

In the morning, you’ll explore the historical heart of Rabat, taking in the Oudaïa Kasbah, and Hassan Tower. Later, we will travel to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling markets. On arrival, you will check into your hotel and relax for the night.

Day 12: Casablanca to Marrakech

In the morning, you will visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, before heading back to Marrakech. Alternatively, if you prefer to fly home from Casablanca, we can drop you off at the airport for your return journey.

Day 13: Marrakech at Leisure and Departure

On your final day in Morocco, you’ll have the chance to explore Marrakech at your own pace. Enjoy the final shopping spree in the souks, explore the Jardin Majorelle, or visit the Bahia Palace before we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.

What’s Included

• Transportation for 13 days in an air-conditioned 4WD vehicle or minivan.
• A knowledgeable, multilingual guide/driver for the entire journey.
• All entrance fees and sightseeing activities as per the itinerary.
• 10 nights in highly-rated hotels and riads, providing a blend of comfort and local flair.
• 2 nights in a Berber desert camp with private tents.
• A camel ride in the Sahara Desert.
• Traditional Moroccan meals, with daily breakfast and dinner provided.
• Live music in the desert, a cultural highlight of the trip.
• Travel insurance for all passengers.

What’s Not Included

• International or domestic flights.
• Lunch and drinks.
• Personal items and tips for local guides and drivers.
• Optional excursions such as ATV or camel rides outside of those outlined in the itinerary.