Welcome
Morocco
Morocco is a gateway to Africa and a country of dizzying diversity. Here you’ll find epic mountain ranges, ancient cities, sweeping deserts – and warm hospitality.
From Saharan dunes to the peaks of the High Atlas, Morocco could have been tailor-made for travelers. Lyrical landscapes carpet this slice of North Africa like the richly coloured and patterned rugs you’ll lust after in local cooperatives. The mountains – not just the famous High Atlas but also the Rif and suntanned ranges leading to Saharan oases – offer simple, breathtaking pleasures: night skies glistening in the thin air, and views over a fluffy cloudbank from the Tizi n’Test pass. On lower ground, there are rugged coastlines, waterfalls and caves in forested hills, and the mighty desert.
Enjoying Morocco starts with nothing more strenuous than its national pastime – people-watching in a street cafe with a coffee or a mint tea. Use the opportunity to plan your next moves – hiking up North Africa’s highest peak, learning to roll couscous, camel trekking in the desert, shopping in the sours or getting lost in the medina. Between the activities, you can sleep in boutique riads, relax on panoramic terraces and grand squares, and mop up delicately flavored tajines – before sweating it all out in a restorative hammam.
Morocco is a storied country, that has, over the centuries, woven its ties to sub-Saharan Africa, Europe and the wider Middle East into whole cloth. Its mixed Arab and Berber population forms a strong national identity, but an increasingly youthful one, taking the best of its traditions and weaving the pattern anew – from the countryside to the city, from the call to prayer from the mosque to the beat of local hip hop. Morocco has a hundred faces and sounds, all ready to welcome the traveler looking for spice and adventure.
TOUR
SAHARA – DEPARTING FROM MARRAKECH
07 DAYS / 06 NIGHTS
Arrival in Marrakech. You will be greeted by your local guide upon arrival at the airport and escorted to your chosen hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in. Overnight in
Marrakech…
SAHARA – DEPARTING FROM MARRAKECH
07 DAYS / 06 NIGHTS
Arrival in Marrakech. You will be greeted by your local guide upon arrival at the airport and escorted to your chosen hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in. Overnight in Marrakech.
After breakfast, early morning departure from your hotel in Marrakech. We will then start our journey to the Dadès Valley which includes breathtaking views throughout the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260m), the highest point in Morocco. Along the way we will make several stops to view and appreciate the magnificent panoramic views which include the Berber villages which seem to be born out of the mountains themselves. Later we will head towards Ait Ben Haddou, an ighrem (fortified village), and traditional Mud Brick city on the edge of the High Atlas Mountains. It is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and has been featured in many films including Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and many others. We will have lunch in the village and continue to Ouarzazate. Along the way we will see the oasis of Skoura with its date palms, eucalyptus and oleanders, apple trees, vines, blossoming almond trees and spectacular ruins of fortified Berber architecture: Ksur. Our journey will also take us across the Valley of the Roses (Kalaat M’gouna), located between the Atlas Mountain Range and the Sahara Desert, where rose fields stretch out as far as the eye can see, over 50 km in length, along the banks of the Dadès and M’Goun, where spring explodes in a luminous and inebriating array of colours. Since the early 30s, a few French industrialists and perfumers began to promote the production of the centifolia rose, whose essence, known as “Rose of May”, is used in many prestigious perfumes and cosmetic products. We will arrive at the Dadès Valley where we will stay overnight.
After breakfast, we will enjoy the most amazing views of the Dadès Valley from one of the most panoramic points in the mountains. The Dadès Valley is home to many kasbahs that were built here for the added protection the valley provides and is often referred to as the Land of a Thousand Kasbahs. Along the route you will have a chance to see many of these kasbahs, each one unique on its own. In the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco, near the town of Tinerhir, the Todra and the Dades Rivers have carved out a narrow canyon called Todra Gorge, a massive trench that rises over 250 meters to form one of the most spectacular natural sights in Morocco. The Todra Gorge is recognized around the world as one of the most spectacular canyons. The road from Tinerhir passes green palmeraies (palm groves) and Berber villages until, 15km along, high walls of pink and grey rock close in around the road. Thanks to its robust rock sides with many uneven surfaces, Todra Gorge is popular among rock climbers. After a short walk through the sheer cliffs of the Todra Gorge, we will take a break for lunch (not included in the package) along the route on our way to the magnificent Merzouga Desert. We’ll drive through changing scenery, from barren mountain sides to fertile valleys, on the journey to Merzouga. With a backdrop of the orange-coloured Erg Chebbi sand dunes, the charming Saharan village of Merzouga feels wonderfully isolated, like the modern world has left it behind. The Erg Chebbi dunes are the most stunning in the country and an essential part of any visit to Morocco. You will leave your gear at a simple auberge and then ride camels to the heart of the Sahara Desert, enjoying one of the most magnificent sunsets you will ever see, along the way. The dunes are stunning, especially as the evening light plays across them and sets off the colors of the sand. Tonight, you will camp out in traditional style, with the chance to try some fantastic local cuisine while you sit around an open fire. Stay after dinner, enjoying lively music, drumming, Berber stories, and dancing under a magnificent blanket of stars. You will enjoy the comfort of private tents (Jaimas), with proper size standing beds, coffee table and chairs. Each tent (jaima) has a private shower and toilet provided. The entire camp is set up by our crew while you relax and enjoy the mighty Sahara Desert.
Early start to watch the sunrise over the spectacular Merzouga dunes around the camp. This is a once in a lifetime experience that you will not soon forget and one of the high points of our journey. We will return by camels (dromedary) to the town of Merzouga where we will have breakfast and start a full day of desert adventures. First, we’ll head towards Erg Chebbi, location of the Large Dune, Morocco’s biggest, around 250m in height. Departure in 4×4 along part of the route of the Paris/Dakar itinerary, with the mountains along the border of Morocco and Algeria on the horizon. We will visit the Khamlia Village whose inhabitants are direct descendants from the Gnawa tribe, originating from sub-Saharan countries such as the Sudan, Mali and Niger, who were forcibly moved from their homelands across the Sahara to Morocco as part of the worldwide slave trade. Next, we will visit a traditional nomad family and learn about some of their customs. After lunch we will return to the hotel and you will have the afternoon free to visit the village, climb the dunes or just relax. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, we initiate our return to Marrakech. We will journey through the arid but interesting pre-desert landscapes covered by Acacia trees on our way to the Draa Valley, created by the Draa River, Morocco’s longest river, formed by the confluence of the Dades River and Imini River. The Draa River flows from the Hight Atlas Mountains southeastward to Tagounit and from Tagounit mostly westwards to the Atlantic Ocean. The Draa Valley is a long, green oasis in a dry, rocky landscape. We will drive across the Anti Atlas Mountains towards Ouarzazate where we will have lunch. Driving across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass on our way back to Marrakech where we will arrive in the evening. Transfer to Riad, lodging and dinner included.
Morning start for a leisurely drive to Essaouira, a colorful fishing town situated within 15th century Portuguese fortifications, where great beaches and surf beckon. With the opening of Morocco to the rest of the world at the end of the 17th century, the Medina of Essaouira was laid out by a French architect who had been profoundly influenced by the work of the military engineer Vauban at Saint Malo. For the most part, it has retained its appearance of a European town. Relax on the beach or alternatively explore the UNESCO-listed medina with its various souks and woodcarving workshops. Return to Marrakech in the late afternoon. Dinner and lodging in Riad.
Breakfast and free morning. At pre-arranged time we will meet at Riad for transfer to airport. We will help you with all ticketing and boarding needs. End of our services, thank you.
PLEASE NOTE:
We will do our best to adhere to our printed itinerary. But sometimes unexpected obstacles, or opportunities, may arise that will force us to deviate from the itinerary as written. We would ask you to be open-minded and flexible should we vary the itinerary slightly. In addition, please note that airline schedules are subject to change. We will provide you with updated flight information closer to your departure (if tickets are issued through our company).
TOUR
THE WONDERLAND OF SAND
09 DAYS / 08 NIGHTS
Upon arrival to Tangier you will be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel. Your first contact with Tangier will be an outing to the medina to discover the birthplace of Ibn Battuta, a famous 14th century traveller and writer. Then visit the old town and see the Grand and Petit Socco (squares), the Grand Mosque…
THE WONDERLAND OF SAND
09 DAYS / 08 NIGHTS
Upon arrival to Tangier you will be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel. Your first contact with Tangier will be an outing to the medina to discover the birthplace of Ibn Battuta, a famous 14th century traveller and writer. Then visit the old town and see the Grand and Petit Socco (squares), the Grand Mosque, the souk, the former palace of the Sultan Moulay Ismail (exterior) and the Mendoubia Gardens. After lunch we will head toward Chefchaouen via the city of Tétouan. Chefchaouen is known worldwide for its Medina of winding alleys, whitewashed houses with blue turquoise doors, wrought iron windows and colorful tile covered roofs. The souks are decorated with their traditionally dressed inhabitants boasting their straw hats. The best way to discover this holy town is to wander around it taking in the atmosphere. This city has a powerful charm that you really can feel in the Outa-el-Hammam square, in the cobblestone medina. Sit on the terrace of a cafe and take in the view of the grand Tarik-Ben-Ziad mosque whose octagonal minaret is inspired by that of the Torre de Oro in Seville. This Andalusian architecture can be found in the kasbah and its gardens, at the center of the medina. Dinner and lodging.
Early in the morning we will continue our journey towards Fez. Before arriving in Fez, we will stop along the way in Volubilis. Volubilis is a partly excavated Berber and Roman city in Morocco situated near the city of Meknes and commonly considered as the ancient capital of the kingdom of Mauretania. It was originally built by the Phoenicians, and the city came into its own during the Roman Empire, the well-preserved Arch of Caracalla still stands. Moulay Idriss or Moulay Idriss Zerhoun is located north of Meknes and is considered the holiest city of Morocco. It was here that Moulay Idriss I arrived in 789, bringing with him the religion of Islam, and starting a new dynasty. In addition to founding the town named after him, he also initiated construction of Fez, continued later by his son, Moulay Idriss II. Our final stop of the day is Fez. Fez is one of the imperial cities along with Marrrakesh, Meknes and Rabat. It is considered the cultural and religious center of Morocco. Boasting more than 12 centuries of history, as well as a medina that is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. Fez is a multifarious city renowned for the splendour of its faded glory. The historic city of Fez is divided into three districts. The old medina quarters of Fes el-Bali, the original city founded by the Idrisid dynasty, in the late 8th century, is the site of the famous Qarawiyyin University, the oldest continually operating university in the world and the Chouara Tannery from the 11th century, one of the oldest tanneries in the world. The smaller Fez el-Jdid, founded in the 13th century, is the site of the enormous Royal Palace and the Mellah, the Jewish quarter, and the modern Ville Nouvelle (new city) constructed during the French colonial era. The Medina of Fez is listed as a World Heritage Site and is believed to be one of the world’s largest urban pedestrian zones and considered as one of the most extensive and best conserved historic towns of the Arab-Muslim world.
Dinner and lodging.
After breakfast, our local guide will join us for a tour of Fez. The whole day will be devoted to discovering Fez, a UNESCO World Heritage and the oldest of the imperial cities, and one of the most complete medieval cities in existence. Surrounded by huge defensive walls, it seems suspended in a time warp, somewhere between the Middle Ages and the modern. But it’s more than that, it is a living city almost devoid of tourists, where whilst wandering amongst its amazing 9,000 tiny streets you experience its noisy hawkers selling everything from colorful vegetables to delicious middle eastern pastries flavored with cinnamon and honey. We’ll take you through the maze-like souks of the old medina including a visit to the Zaouia (sanctuary) of MoulayIdriss II, founder of Fez. Fez served as the capital of Morocco for more than 350 years and is home to the University of Al Karaouine, the oldest operating university in the world. Your guided tour will take you to Moulay Idriss mausoleum, the Nejjarine Fountains and the Tanneries. After lunch you will also view the exterior of the Royal Palace and walk through the famous Jewish quarter “the Mellah”, where you will have the option to visit one of the few living synagogues in Morocco. Your tour of Fez includes a short visit to the famous ceramic factory, and then you can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view over the whole Medina of Fez. Lodging in your hotel or Riad.
Early rise to continue our tour. Our driver will pick you up at your Hotel / Riad in Fez. We start to discover some of Morocco’s beautiful mountainous landscape today as we leave Fez and follow ancient caravan routes up into the hills. Along the way we’ll stop at Ifran, known as the ”Switzerland of Morocco” and a huge contrast to some of the other more Arabic feeling cities you’ll see in Morocco. The French built Ifran in the 1930s, with the intention of recreating an alpine style resort, here you’ll see beautiful parks with lakes, flower beds, and red roofed houses throughout what was named the second cleanest city in the world in 2013. We will make a stop at the cedar forests of Azrou where the wild monkeys are located. We continue our journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains enjoying the landscapes to arrive at the small town of Midelt where we’ll stop for lunch. Next, we head on through the hills and through the scenic Ziz Valley as we descend to Erfoud on the edge of the Sahara Desert. We’ll then drive in 4WD vehicles through the desert to Merzouga and the famous Erg Chebbi sand dunes. Here we transfer to camels (dromedaries) and take a sunset camel ride through the sand dunes to a traditional Berber camp nestled right on the edge of the dunes. You spend the night sleeping in comfortable Berber tents (jaima).
Early rise to watch the sunrise over the spectacular Merzouga dunes around the camp. This is a once in a lifetime experience that you will not soon forget and one of the high points of our journey. We will return by camels (dromedary) to the town of Merzouga where we will have breakfast. After saying farewell to the desert, we will head towards Rissani, where we will visit the local market. A former major caravan center, Rissani remains a major commercial center in the region, with a large souk, particularly lively on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. We continue then to Erfoud where we can visit the manufactures of fossilized marble before starting our way to Touroug and Tinjdad palm groves. One hour later we´ll reach one of the best places of the High Atlas, the Todra Gorges. In the afternoon we continue to the Dadès valley, also known as the valley of figs, going through Boumalne Dadés where we’ll stop at the “monkey legs”. Dinner and lodging.
After breakfast we can enjoy one of the best views the Dadès valley has to offer from strategic lookout points in the mountains, from here we can appreciate the great number of kasbahs and uniqueness of each one. Then we continue down a road speckled with different kasbahs that were built here for the added protection the valley provides, giving this area its name the “Land of a Thousand Kasbah”. After several stops along the road to enjoy the Valley of the Roses and the big Skoura palm grove we`ll get to Ouarzazate to visit the Kasbah of Taourirt (UNESCO World Heritage Monument – 1986), old residence of the Glaoui or Marrrakesh pasha. If interested, we can visit the cinema studios and the cinema museum. We will also visit Ait Ben Haddou, an ighrem (fortified village), and traditional Mud Brick city on the edge of the High Atlas Mountains. It is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and has been featured in many films including Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, Game of Thrones and many others. After lunch in town, we will head towards Marrakech going through the mountain port of Tizi Ntichka with some stops along the way to take pictures. Your journey begins with beautiful views of the mountains and ends in the dry flatlands around Marrakech, allowing you to experience the depth of the country’s terrain. Transfer to Riad.
We will be leaving this morning on a leisurely drive to Essaouira, a colorful fishing town situated within 15th century Portuguese fortifications, where great beaches and surf beckon. With the opening of Morocco to the rest of the world at the end of the 17th century, the Medina of Essaouira was laid out by a French architect who had been profoundly influenced by the work of the military engineer Vauban at Saint Malo. For the most part, it has retained its appearance of a European town. In Essauoira you will have free time to relax on the beach or alternatively explore the UNESCO-listed medina with its various souks and woodcarving workshops. Any city gate leads to the medina, so you’re unlikely to get lost. We will return to Marrakech in the late afternoon. Dinner and lodging in Riad.
Breakfast and free morning. At pre-arranged time we will meet at Riad for transfer to airport. We will help you with all luggage and boarding needs. End of our services, thank you.
PLEASE NOTE:
We will do our best to adhere to our printed itinerary. But sometimes unexpected obstacles, or opportunities, may arise that will force us to deviate from the itinerary as written. We would ask you to be open-minded and flexible should we vary the itinerary slightly. In addition, please note that airline schedules are subject to change. We will provide you with updated flight information closer to your departure (if tickets are issued through our company).
