Sahara to Sea: 14 Days of Moroccan Magic from Marrakech

Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech

Welcome to Morocco! Arrive in Marrakech, the renowned Red City, which serves as the spiritual core of the country, blending the cultures of the mountain Berbers and the desert communities in the south. Your driver will be ready to greet you upon your arrival in Marrakech and will transport you to your Riad, where you will spend the night. After completing the check-in process, the remainder of the day is available.

Overnight in Marrakech– Riad 4*

Roomdescription: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 2: Marrakech

Half-day city tour of Marrakech: After breakfast, meet a local city guide for a comprehensive tour of Marrakech. Your journey through the vibrant tapestry of Marrakech begins by unveiling the city's prominent sites, each one a treasure trove of history and culture awaiting discovery. Be awestruck by the grandeur of the Koutoubia Mosque, continue to the Saadian Tombs, Mellah the Jewish quarter, and step into the opulent world of the Bahia Palace, where intricate architecture and lush gardens create a haven of tranquility amidst the city's hustle and bustle. Conclude your tour at Jamaa El Fna, the liveliest square in Marrakech, frequented by snake charmers, monkey performers, fortune tellers, food stalls, and musicians. Once the tour ends, enjoy the rest of the day exploring on your own.

Overnight in Marrakech– Riad 4*

Roomdescription: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3: Marrakech to Ouarzazate via Ait Ben Haddou

After breakfast, you will continue your adventure by traveling the High Atlas Mountains, through many authentic towns and Berber villages. There will be plenty of stops for tea and photographs as you take in the breathtaking vistas. At the highest point on the pass (Col du Tichka), you will reach an altitude of nearly 7500 feet above sea level before descending the village of Telouet and visiting Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a famous 17th century fortress and a Unesco World Heritage Site. It is also famed as the shooting location for Lawrence of Arabia, Jesus of Nazareth, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, and Prince of Persia… Next, you will continue to Ouarzazate, starting your visit with the Atlas Studio or the Taourirt Kasbah. Finally, you will be taken to your accommodation. Dinner will be served at your Riad or hotel.

Overnight in Ouarzazate– Riad 4

Roomdescription: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4: Ouarzazate to Todra Gorge via Rose Valley and Dades Gorge

Traveling along the Roses Valley, the route passes the Skoura palmeries and continues onwards to the Gorge of Dades. Estimated travel time 3-hours depending on stops. Visit the Roses Valley and the ancient Ameridhil Kasbah. There is subsistence farming here on small plots of land, primarily growing wheat, alfalfa for livestock, and fruit trees. Birch trees are also planted for use as timber. These plots are all-surrounded by rows of wild Damask rose trees from the Rosa Damascena botanical species, which offers excellent protection against ruminants that may damage them. Multiple irrigation canals supply these plots of land. Once dried, the roses are used to make scented potpourri. Immediate distillation produces authentic rose hydrolat, also called 'floral water' or 'rose water', used locally for ablutions or flavoring in pastries. Damask rose is also extracted for the premium perfume industry and essential oils. Ameridhil Kasbah is an ancient kasbah in the middle of the palmeries. It is a fortified mud-brick building that has been used for storage and defense amongst other things. Visit Dades Gorge: The weird rock formations between fig and almond trees make this a photogenic place to visit. The gorge lie further up the valley, where the road crosses the Oued (River, Valley) and the cliffs can be seen, weathered by countless rains.

Overnight in Todra Gorges– Riad 3

Roomdescription: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast and dinne

Day 5: Merzouga Desert

After Breakfast, Enjoy your journey from Todra Gorge to Merzouga, and savor the contrasting landscapes and experiences along the way! Travel time is 4-5 hours depending on the stops. Meet the camel team and trek the short distance through the great dunes of Erg Chebbi to the desert camp. The dunes will change hue in the sunset, and you will have the chance to climb to the summit of the dunes to witness the sunset, a chance not to be missed. There will be dinner served in the camp, and then you can see the spectacular desert sky full of stars.

Overnight in Merzouga- Desert luxury camp

Roomdescription: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast, dinner

Day 6: Merzouga to Midelt via Ziz Oasis

After an early start perhaps to see the sunrise over the dunes of Merzouga, you will get off to the edge of the High Atlas Mountains and drive up to the Ziz Valley before reaching the plains between the great mountain ranges of the High and Middle Atlas. In summer, the nomads take their camels and livestock up to the nomadic encampments from the desert. Reach the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas and onwards to the town of Midelt. Travel time is about 4-5hours depending on traffic and stops.

Overnight in Midelt: Villa 4

Room description: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast an dinner

Day 7: Ifrane through Cedar Forest- Fes

After leaving the small town of Midelt, see the Cedar forests of the Middle Atlas and perhaps visit part of the forest to see the Barbary Monkeys there. Make a short stop in alpine like city of Ifrane before you descend to the Imperial City of Fes. Estimated travel time 3-4 hours depending on traffic and stops. Afternoon is at leisure to explore or to relax in a hamam (spa). Fes is the oldest of the Imperial Cities, founded in the 9th century, with many different tribes and peoples inhabiting it over the centuries, all adding their influences to the city. The medieval Medina is the largest in Morocco, it comprises winding alleyways, shopping areas, cafes, old palaces, and residences, Fes el Bali alone has about 9500alleyways and souks! Enjoy an evening at leisure to explore the wonderful medina of Fes, which has been wonderfully preserved. The charming streets, crumbling architecture, bustling eateries, and outdoor markets make for a fantastic atmosphere. If you are in the mood for a high-quality couscous or pastilla, head to one of the local restaurants. You will find that the shops will be open until relatively late.

Overnight in Fes- Riad 4

Roomdescription: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8: Fes city tour

Discover the gaudy streets of Fes in this lively guided tour. You will explore Morocco's oldest imperial city partially on foot, and partially by car, to best appreciate the historical architecture, which serves as a wonderful example of a Moroccan medieval town; the narrow streets, sprawling souks, and ornate palaces are a joy to explore. Small local cafes dot the side streets, inviting you in to sample traditional Moroccan foods. You will walk through the streets with a local guide who is an expert on the city and its heritage. Some highlights of the tour include visiting the Royal Palace, strolling through the humming Medina, and marveling at market rugs, clothing, and trinkets along the way. Please tell them your specific interests, and they can tailor the tour to meet your requirements.

Afternoon at leisure to explore the Medina

Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the Medina on your own. Have a go at your bargaining skills to buy authentic leather ware, ceramics, and clothes. Be sure to take a visit to one of Fez's three tanneries to experience the sights and smells of the fascinating process some of the street stall's produce goes through to reach its final product.

Overnight in Fes- Riad 4

Roomdescription: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9: Volubilis- Chefchaouen

Traveling northwards from Fes, the route goes past the region of the dayat or small lakes before ascending into the foothills of the Rif Mountains. Your journey ends at the Blue city of Chefchaouen. Travel time is 3.5-4 hours depending on stops. Roman ruins of Volubilis is one of Morocco's best-preserved ruins: it is an ancient Roman city but was originally founded in the 3rd century BC. The Romans developed it 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, wherein the city grew rapidly to cover about 42hectares, with a 2.6km circuit of walls. By the time Berbers took it over in about 280ADS, there was likely a mixture of people living there. One of the many draws of the site is that it is only partially excavated; the Triumphal Arch, the Capitol, Baths, and the Basilica still dominate the landscape. The city's financial prosperity came from olive growing and led to the construction of many stunning townhouses, as well as mosaics scattered around the site. The site is open to wander around, but you may prefer a guide. Time to explore Chefchaouen “Chaouen” with its Berber, Jewish, and Spanish history, a town closed off to Christians until the early 20th century. A light blue wash on the white house makes the town very photogenic. The old medina is quite small, and therefore discoverable by walking through the streets, perhaps stopping at the weaving shops (formerly silk but now wool) and the fundouq at the corner of the main square Plaza Uta El Hammam.

Overnight in Chefchaouen– Riad 4

Roomdescription: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10: Chefchaouen to Rabat

Traveling down the coast to Rabat, it is possible to see other sites on the way to the capital of Morocco. Estimated travel time is 4-5 hours depending on traffic. Explore the sights of Rabat, the Hassan tower besides Mohamed V mausoleum, the Chella necropolis and the Oudaya Kasbah. Rabat is Morocco's enchanting capital, it is often overlooked, even though its Medina offers a less touristic experience than other more renowned Moroccan cities. Rabat is known to be a very friendly place; it is exceptionally clean, a tram helps visitors and residents navigate the city, and its wide sidewalks allow for a more peaceful sightseeing experience. Rabat has a certain cosmopolitan, European feel to its streets, as while meandering the city you will be sure to hear a range of languages and come across an array of excellent restaurants and cafés spilling onto the streets.

Overnight in Rabat– Riad 4

Roomdescription: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast 

Day 11: Rabat– Casablanca- El Jadida Leaving

Rabat, your route heads south along the Atlantic coast, passing through picturesque towns and villages. The journey spans approximately 200kilometers, taking around 2to 3hours, depending on traffic conditions. On the way to Casablanca, visit the Hassan II Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in the world! The stately structure is set on an outcrop, protruding into the Atlantic Ocean; its minaret is the second tallest in the region at 210 meters. The building was completed in 1993, originally designed by Michel Pinseau and built by Bouygues. It is certainly a must-see for anybody visiting Casablanca and the only mosque in the city that non-Muslims can visit. The majesty and craftsmanship of this holy building are staggering; as you wander around, you can marvel at the meticulous geometric tilework, heavenly marble-inlays, hand-carved wood, and intricate cedar ceilings. The perfectionism and attention to detail of the artisans who contributed to its construction are notable. From the plasterwork to the carpets, many Moroccans have played a role in the Mosque's construction over time. It is said that 10,000 workers helped build the Mosque over 5years. The building can hold over 25,000 worshippers inside, with more than 50,000outside. As you approach El Jadida, you'll be greeted by its distinct Portuguese influence, evident in the architecture and fortifications. The city's most prominent attraction is the Mazagan Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved ramparts and stunning sea views. El Jadida also offers serene beaches and a relaxed ambiance, making it an ideal destination for a coastal retreat. Whether you're interested in exploring historical sites, soaking up the sun on the beach, or indulging in fresh seafood cuisine, El Jadida promises a memorable experience for travelers seeking both culture and relaxation.

Overnight in El Jadida– Riad 4

Roomdescription: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 12: Essaouira

Travel along the coast and past Berber villages and small fishing ports. Try some oysters in Oualidia (the capital of oyster production in Morocco) before driving onwards to Essaouira. Traveling time is about 3.5-4 hours At leisure in the coastal town of Essaouira: Essaouira is arguably one of Morocco's most enchanting towns, with origins in Berber, Portuguese, and French architecture. It was inhabited by the Romans andpossibly the Phoenicians as far back as the 7th century BC; the Romans used to harvest mollusks here for the Imperial purple dye. This old fortified city has been a trading port of various importance throughout its history and still has a thriving fishing harbor: take a wander down to the sea, and you'll be stunned by the dazzling mass of fishing boats, all painted in a vibrant blue.

Overnight in Essaouira– Riad 4

 Roomdescription: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 13: Marrakech Morning at leisure in Essaouira:

the serenity of Essaouira makes it perfect for leisure time: recline on the golden sands, drift between the craft shops on the blue cobbled streets, or simply relax in a Hamam. Its name translates as the 'windy city of Morocco', so if you fancy something more active, it is great for surfing and other water sports. It has a nice climate throughout the year, with other activities including discovering the wooden boat building in the harbor, trying a traditional Moroccan cooking course, and admiring the copious displays of Thuya wood and Argan. The seafood here is to die for, so we highly recommend giving that a try too! Afternoon on the road to Marrakech. Travel from the coast and climb up into the hills that border the town of Essaouira before traveling inland, away from the Argan forests and to the plains. Pass the rocky desert of Agafay and reach Marrakech. Travel time is around 3hours depending on traffic and stops.

Overnight in Marrakech– Riad 4

Roomdescription: Double/twin

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 14: Marrakech

Time for your onward flight you will be transferred to Marrakech airport for departure estimated time 20-30 minutes.

Included services

• Private transfers from and to the airport.

• Accommodation in 4* Hotels and Riads, All local taxes.

• Daily breakfast and 3 dinners.

• English-speaking guide.

• Half-day guided city tour of Fes and Marrakech.

• Fuel and tolls.

• Private transport in modern A/C vehicle. 

• Camel ride in the desert.

Excluded services

• Tips for the Guiding Team/Driver.

• Entrance fees on the city tours

• Meals not mentioned above.

• International flights