9-Day Moroccan Adventure: Explore Cities, Villages, and the Sahara

Welcome to Morocco! Upon your arrival at Marrakech airport, we'll greet you and transfer you to your hotel. If you arrive early, you can relax by the hotel pool or explore Marrakech on your own. At 6:00 PM, we'll have a welcome meeting with the tour guide where you'll meet your fellow travelers. If you arrive late and miss this meeting, we'll introduce everyone again the next morning. Dinner will be provided at the hotel tonight.

Today marks the beginning of our adventure with a scenic drive through Morocco's High Atlas Mountains, leading us to the ancient village of Ait Benhaddou. This historic village served as a crucial caravan stopover and is renowned for its distinctive architecture, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status and fame as a filming location for movies like "Gladiator," "Prince of Persia," and "Game of Thrones."

Next, we'll explore Ouarzazate, often referred to as the "Hollywood of North Africa," thanks to its numerous film studios. Here, we'll have the chance to visit these studios and witness where many international films have been produced.

Continuing on our journey, we'll traverse the picturesque Roses Valley, known for its fragrant damaskina roses. Each year, locals celebrate the rose harvest with a lively festival. Our day concludes in Boumalne Dades, a charming town nestled in breathtaking surroundings, where we'll spend the night.

Today, we say goodbye to the Dades Valley and head east towards the Todra Gorge. Among the palm groves of this oasis, we'll take a leisurely stroll and admire the stunning gorges.

Next, our journey takes us to the magnificent Erg Chebbi dunes of Merzouga. Here, we'll embark on a camel trek deep into the expansive Sahara Desert. As the sun sets below the horizon, we'll witness the breathtaking transformation of the desert landscape.

Our evening unfolds at an authentic Berber Camp nestled on the desert's edge. Here, we'll enjoy delicious local cuisine, be captivated by traditional music, and cherish a magical night under the twinkling Saharan stars.

After breakfast, our journey continues through Errachidia and the Ziz Valley, famous for its plentiful date palms. We then cross the High and Middle Atlas Mountains, a natural divide between the Sahara Desert and Morocco's inland regions.

Along the way, we'll stop at the Cedar Forest to observe the playful Barbary macaque apes. Our next destination is the picturesque alpine town of Ifrane, once a French colonial retreat. Finally, we arrive in Fes, Morocco's historic capital, where we will spend the night.

Fes, considered by many as the largest and oldest medieval city globally, boasts a history spanning over 1,200 years. Its renowned Medina, bustling with 400,000 inhabitants, features narrow winding streets, mosques, and vibrant souks, creating a sensory-rich experience of sights, smells, and sounds. Our exploration will focus on the Medina, where we'll observe various palaces, mosques (though entry is restricted to non-Muslims), and a diverse array of crafts for sale. Guided tours will include visits to Fes's famous dye-pits, tanneries, a traditional Moroccan pharmacy, and pottery workshops. After a full day of walking and discovery, we'll return to our hotel to unwind. Optionally, tonight offers a chance for a traditional meal within the city, accompanied by live Moroccan entertainment such as music, belly dancing, and magic shows.

Today, we continue our journey to discover Chefchaouen, a serene sanctuary nestled high in the Rif mountains. Known for its stunning blue doors and white-washed walls, Chefchaouen was originally a Berber outpost. The main square lies at the heart of Chefchaouen, featuring the 18th-century Kasbah, a central mosque, and charming cafes offering delightful local cuisine. Take your time to wander through the bustling market amidst a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Today, we depart early and head south to Rabat, the official capital of Morocco. Upon arrival, our guided tour begins, taking us to significant landmarks such as the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of King Mohamed V and his son, Hassan II.

We'll also explore the Oudaya Kasbah, a historic fortress that once defended against European incursions. After a delightful lunch in Rabat, we proceed to Casablanca, where you have the option to visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque before we check in at our hotel.

After breakfast, we'll return to Marrakech, the vibrant city where you can settle into your hotel. The afternoon is yours to relax by the pool or explore independently. Consider joining our guided city tour, treating yourself to a hammam spa and massage, or visiting the serene Majorelle Gardens.

Don't miss Marrakech's iconic landmark, the rose-hued Koutoubia Mosque, towering at 77 meters. Its design echoes the Hassan Tower in Rabat and the Giralda Tower in Seville, marking the medina's edge.

To truly soak in Marrakech's essence, explore the UNESCO-listed medina and Djemaa el-Fna square. This lively epicenter buzzes with snake charmers, musicians, henna artists, spice vendors, and colorful souvenir stalls. Our final evening will be spent here, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere.

After breakfast today, your Moroccan tour with us concludes, and you have free time until your departure. Our guide or the hotel can assist you in arranging a taxi for the short drive to the airport. Alternatively, you have the option to extend your stay in Marrakech to further explore the city at your leisure.