7-Day Journey Through the Enchanting Trails of Morocco

Upon your arrival at Casablanca Airport, we’ll begin with a tour of this bustling commercial capital of Morocco. Our first stop is the Hassan II Mosque, the second largest mosque in the world, spectacularly located above the ocean—a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. Next, we’ll visit Place Mohamed V, home to some of the city’s oldest government buildings.

From Casablanca, we’ll continue on to Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. Here, you’ll see the modern Hassan Tower and explore the historic Ordains Kasbah, an 11th-century fortress constructed in the Andalusian style. We’ll check into our hotel in Rabat for the night.

After breakfast, we’ll set off on a full-day journey. Our first stop is Meknes, an imperial city founded by the first Alawite dynasty rulers. Key sights include the grand gateway of Babb el-Mansur, the Sahrij Souani Basin, and the beautifully adorned Moulay Ismail Mausoleum.

Following lunch, our journey continues to Volubilis, Morocco’s best-preserved Roman ruins dating back to AD 24–285. Next, we’ll visit Mouly Driss Zerhoun, a picturesque mountain village offering dramatic views as its buildings cascade down the slopes. After an adventurous day of exploration, we’ll drive through the mountains to Fez, where we’ll spend the night at our hotel or Riad.

Fez is one of Morocco’s oldest and most fascinating cities, celebrated for its medieval architecture and rich history. During your guided exploration, you’ll visit:

Medina of Fez (Fes el-Bali)
Explore the UNESCO-listed Medina with its maze of alleyways, markets, and historic landmarks. Highlights include:

• Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque: One of the world’s oldest universities, founded in 859 AD.
• Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate): The iconic entrance to the old city with stunning blue tilework.
• Chouara Tannery: Witness centuries-old leather tanning techniques.
• Medersa Bou Inania & Attarine Madrasa: Examples of Marinid architecture featuring intricate tilework and stucco designs.

Fez Jdid (New Fez)
Explore the more modern side of Fez, with highlights such as:

• Royal Palace: Admire its golden doors and intricate mosaics.
• Mellah (Jewish Quarter): Explore its historic synagogues, markets, and local architecture.

Other stops include:

• Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
• Fez Pottery Cooperative
• Shopping at the city’s vibrant souks for traditional Moroccan handicrafts like rugs, spices, and leather goods.

We’ll return to our hotel or Riad in Fez after a full day of exploration.

The journey from Fez to the Merzouga Desert offers diverse landscapes, history, and culture. Along the way, we’ll visit:

Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture, clean streets, and lush greenery.

Ziz Valley, a breathtaking oasis dotted with palm groves and traditional Berber villages as you descend toward the Sahara.

Erfoud, the Gateway to the Sahara Desert. This historic town is famous for its fossil deposits and dates.

Our destination is Merzouga, home to the iconic Erg Chebbi Dunes, with towering dunes that change color under the shifting light. Here, you’ll embark on a sunset camel ride, witnessing the beauty of the dunes and the serene desert landscapes. We’ll arrive at a luxury desert camp for the evening, offering upscale accommodations, traditional Moroccan dinners under the stars, and the chance to experience Berber music and stories around a crackling fire.

Enjoy a restful overnight stay in this unforgettable desert retreat.

Early morning, your camel guide will wake you to experience a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes. After enjoying this magical moment and a camel trek back to Merzouga village, you’ll return to your Riad for breakfast.

Following breakfast, we’ll travel through Rissani and Erfoud, exploring traditional rural life and historical landmarks. Next, we’ll visit Todra Gorges, Morocco’s tallest and narrowest gorges, which reach up to 300 meters in height—truly a sight to behold.

After exploring the gorges, we’ll continue through the Dades Valley, known for its scenic landscapes, majestic rock formations (referred to as “monkey toes”), and Berber villages. We’ll arrive at our hotel/Riad for the night, with the option of watching the sunset over the valley’s dramatic vistas.

After breakfast, we’ll explore the Dades Valley, a key part of the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs. We’ll stop at Kalaa M’gouna, known as the Rose City, famous for its annual rose festival and local rosewater products.

Next, we’ll visit Skoura, a lush oasis valley with preserved mud-brick Kasbahs, including the iconic Kasbah Ameridil. After lunch in a scenic valley restaurant, we’ll continue on to Ouarzazate, dubbed “the Hollywood of Africa”. Here, we’ll visit the UNESCO-protected Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a stunning fortified village offering panoramic views of palm groves and mountains.

Continuing through the Tizi n’Tichka pass, we’ll stop in Telouet to visit its ancient 17th-century Kasbah. We’ll then proceed toward Marrakech, where you’ll have free time to explore Djemâa El-Fna, the vibrant central square. Spend the evening at a traditional riad in Marrakech.

Discover Marrakech’s exotic charm with a guided exploration that includes:

• Koutoubia Mosque: The city’s most famous landmark.
• Majorelle Garden: A stunning oasis of cacti, palms, and vibrant colors.
• Saadian Tombs: A historical 16th-century cemetery adorned with intricate mosaic tiles.

After lunch, explore the city’s vibrant souks, including the Babouche Souk, El-Attarine, Chouari, and Cherratine markets. Wander the narrow alleys and soak in the lively atmosphere of Djemâa El-Fna Square as street performers bring the area to life.

After a final exploration of this dynamic city, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your onward journey.