12 Day Heart of Morocco

Look out for your driver/guide in the arrival hall at the airport. They will be holding a sign with your name on it.

Your Moroccan adventure begins as you arrive at Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca. From here, enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel, where you can relax after your flight.

🛏️ Overnight stay in Casablanca

In the morning, begin your journey with a visit to Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Africa, set dramatically on the Atlantic coastline. Marvel at its intricate mosaics, towering minaret, and the waves crashing against its foundation.

Then, set off for Rabat, Morocco’s elegant capital. After an hour’s drive along the coast, arrive in this imperial city filled with remarkable landmarks:

• Chellah Necropolis – Wander through the ancient ruins of this walled medieval site, where Roman and Islamic history intertwine.

• Mausoleum of Mohammed V – A masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, home to the tombs of Moroccan kings and princes.

• Royal Palace Gateway – Catch a glimpse of the official residence of the Moroccan king.

• Oudaya Kasbah – Stroll through this fortified quarter, with its narrow blue-and-white streets, offering beautiful river and ocean views.

In the afternoon, continue your journey into the Rif Mountains, arriving in the picturesque, blue-washed town of Chefchaouen.

🛏️ Overnight stay in Chefchaouen.

Breakfast

Approx distance: 366 km

Spend your free time this morning exploring the charming blue-and-white streets of Chefchaouen, nestled in a peaceful Rif Mountain valley. This picturesque town is known for its cobblestone alleys, stairways painted in vibrant shades of blue, and a laid-back atmosphere.

As you wander, discover local weaving studios and leather workshops, where artisans continue centuries-old traditions. In the heart of the Medina, visit the Kasbah of Chefchaouen, a red-walled fortress standing in the tranquil Outa El Hammam Square. Look out for the Great Mosque’s distinctive octagonal minaret, rising above the rooftops.

• Kasbah of Chefchaouen – Explore the red-walled fortress in the main square.

• White Mosque – A historic mosque blending into the blue-washed Medina.

• Place El Haouta – A peaceful local square with a traditional fountain.

• Spanish Mosque – Hike up to this hilltop mosque for panoramic views over Chefchaouen.

• The Medina of Chefchaouen – Stroll through narrow blue alleyways lined with artisan shops.

After lunch, depart for Fes, arriving in the early evening.

🛏️ Overnight stay in Fes.

Breakfast

Approx distance: 197 km

After breakfast set out to explore Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city and a UNESCO-listed treasure. Step into the past as you wander through the labyrinthine alleyways of Fes el-Bali, the sprawling old Medina filled with centuries-old souks, mosques, and madrasas.

Begin your tour with a visit to the Royal Palace Gate, an impressive set of bronze doors leading to one of the king’s residences. Nearby, explore the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), the first of its kind in Morocco, dating back to the 14th century.

Your journey continues with some of Fes’ most significant landmarks:

• Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate) – The grand gateway into the ancient Medina.

• Bou Inania Madrasa – A stunning 14th-century religious school, renowned for its intricate zellige tilework and carved cedarwood.

• Al-Qarawiyyine University – Founded in 859 AD, the oldest continually operating university in the world.

• Tanneries of Fes – Witness the traditional process of leather dyeing in vast stone vats.

• Moulay Idriss Mausoleum – The sacred tomb of Fes’ founder.

• Andalusian Quarter – A historic area with Andalusian architectural influence.

• El Glaoui Palace & Palais el Mokri – Former palaces showcasing Moroccan craftsmanship.

• Dar Batha Museum – A 19th-century palace-turned-museum, home to stunning ceramics and textiles.

• Marinid Tombs – Climb to these hilltop ruins for a breathtaking panoramic view over Fes el-Bali.

After lunch, visit a tiles cooperative to see traditional Moroccan craftsmanship before ending your day with a spectacular panoramic view over the Medina.

🛏️ Overnight stay in Fes.

Breakfast

This morning, you will depart for a day trip to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities and known for its impressive monuments and grand history.

Begin by touring the fortified walls of Meknes, punctuated by majestic 17th-century gates, including:

·         Bab Berdain – An intricate city gate with traditional Moroccan tilework.

·         Bab Khemis – A historic entrance that once welcomed traders and travelers.

Explore the city's royal heritage, visiting the remains of Heri es-Souani, the massive granaries and royal stables built to house the sultan’s horses. Then, stop at the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, a masterpiece of Moorish architecture and the only mosque in Morocco once open to non-Muslims.

Continue to El Hedim Square, Meknes’ lively central plaza, located opposite the grand Bab Mansour, Morocco’s most famous and beautifully decorated gate. Nearby, visit:

• Dar Jamai Museum – Showcasing traditional Moroccan arts and crafts.

• El Hedim Square – Once built by Moulay Ismail after demolishing half of old Meknes to expand his palace.

After soaking in the city’s history and atmosphere, return to Fes in the late afternoon.

🛏️ Overnight stay in Fes.

Breakfast

Approx distance: 126 km

This morning, set off from Fes towards the Sahara Desert, passing through breathtaking landscapes of the Middle Atlas and High Atlas Mountains.

Along the way, stop at:

• Ifrane – Known as the "Switzerland of Morocco," this charming alpine town is famous for its European-style architecture and crisp mountain air.

• Cedar Forest of Azrou – The largest in Morocco, home to Barbary macaques, where you’ll have the chance to see these playful monkeys up close.

• Midelt – A quiet Berber town nestled between the Atlas Mountains, where you’ll stop for lunch.

Continue the journey via:

• Tizi N'Talghamt Pass & Ziz Gorge – A scenic mountain pass leading to the vast Ziz Valley, known for its endless palm groves and date plantations.

• Errachidia & Erfoud – Gateway towns to the desert, where the landscape transforms into golden dunes.

By late afternoon, arrive in Merzouga, where you’ll be welcomed with traditional mint tea before setting off on a camel trek into the dunes. Witness the magic of the Sahara sunset before reaching your desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a night under the stars with Berber music around the campfire.

🛏️ Overnight in a desert camp.

Breakfast, Dinner

Approx distance: 465 km

Wake up early to witness an unforgettable sunrise over the Sahara, as the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi glow in the morning light. After enjoying the view, return to camp for breakfast, then set off on a camel trek back to Merzouga, where your driver awaits.

Today's journey takes you through:

• Rissani – Visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, the founder of the Alaouite dynasty, and explore this traditional desert town.

• Erfoud – Stop by a fossil workshop, where ancient marine fossils are polished into decorative pieces.

• Todra Gorges – Marvel at these dramatic 300-metre-high canyon walls, a paradise for rock climbers and nature lovers. Enjoy a guided walk through the palm grove and old Jewish quarter before lunch.

• Dades Valley – Drive through a stunning landscape of red rock formations, ancient kasbahs, and the famous “Monkey Fingers” rock formations.

🛏️ Overnight Dades Valley.

Breakfast / Dinner

Approx distance: 260 km

After breakfast, set off through the breathtaking Dades Valley, following the famous "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs". Along the way, enjoy countless photo opportunities of ancient fortresses set against dramatic mountain backdrops.

Today's highlights include:

• Kalaat M'Gouna – Stop in Morocco’s "Valley of Roses", where you can visit a local cooperative to see how rose products are made.

• Ouarzazate – Visit Taourirt Kasbah, a former stronghold of the Glaoui dynasty, and explore the Atlas Film Studios, where Hollywood blockbusters were filmed.

• Aït Benhaddou – Discover this UNESCO-listed fortified village, famous for its mud-brick architecture and as a filming location for movies and series like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

• Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m) – Journey through the High Atlas Mountains, stopping to visit a Berber women’s cooperative, where argan oil is traditionally produced.

By evening, arrive in Marrakech, where you’ll check into your accommodation. 🏡✨

🛏️ Overnight stay in Marrakech

Breakfast

Approx distance: 350 km

After breakfast, set off to explore the vibrant city of Marrakech, often called the "Red City" for its terracotta-coloured buildings. This historic hub, once a vital trading post for Berber tribes, is now a cultural treasure trove.

Morning Highlights

• Majorelle Gardens – Wander through lush botanical gardens created by French artist Jacques Majorelle, later restored by Yves Saint Laurent.

• Koutoubia Mosque – Admire Marrakech’s most iconic 12th-century minaret, a masterpiece of Almohad architecture.

• Saadian Tombs – Discover the beautifully decorated royal necropolis from the 16th century.

• Bahia Palace – Explore this grand 19th-century palace, known for its intricate stucco work, cedarwood ceilings, and tranquil courtyards.

Afternoon Experience

• Jemaa el-Fna Square – Enjoy lunch near the city’s legendary square, where snake charmers, storytellers, and musicians bring the UNESCO-listed site to life.

• Souks & Handicrafts – Navigate the labyrinth of traditional souks, each dedicated to unique crafts—spices, leather, carpets, and more.

• Ben Youssef Madrasa – Marvel at the ornate Islamic architecture of this former Quranic school, featuring intricate wood carvings and zellij tilework.

By late afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace or relax at a rooftop café overlooking the lively city.

🛏️ Overnight stay in Marrakech

Breakfast

Today is yours to relax and explore Marrakech at your own pace. Take the time to unwind and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city, or venture out for some extra sightseeing.

Whatever you choose, this free day offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, discover hidden gems, or simply enjoy Marrakech at your leisure.

🛏️ Overnight stay in Marrakech

Breakfast

After breakfast, you will head towards Essaouira, a coastal town known for its charming medina and relaxing beach atmosphere. Along the way, enjoy the striking sight of goats climbing the argan trees – a,unique and often photographed scene. You may also choose to stop and visit the Argan Forest and a local cooperative, where you can learn about the process of producing argan oil.

Upon arrival in Essaouira, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this beautiful coastal town at your leisure. Its medina, with its mix of history, culture, and modern cafes, offers a pleasant blend of the old and the new. Stroll along the long promenade, enjoy the vast sandy beach, and take a dip in the safe, refreshing waters.

Essaouira's charm lies not only in its coastal beauty but also in its fascinating architecture. The town is a late-18th-century fortified city, designed with European military principles but built within a North African context. Its medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s a perfect escape from the busy city, offering a peaceful atmosphere and cooler coastal breezes.

Enjoy the evening in Essaouira, with its relaxed ambiance, and settle into your hotel for the night.

🛏️ Overnight stay in Essaouira

Approx distance: 177 km

Goodbye, Morocco!

As all good things must come to an end, we hope your journey through Morocco has been a truly unforgettable experience. From the rich history and vibrant culture to the breathtaking landscapes and welcoming people, Morocco has shown you the very best of Northern Africa.

At the arranged time, you will be transferred from your hotel to Casablanca for your international flight back home.

We hope you take home wonderful memories of this unique journey and wish you safe travels on your onward adventures!

Approx distance: 380 km