Highlights
- Explore the best of Morocco's coast and desert with 5-star luxury stays
- Tick off all four imperial cities: Fes, Marrakesh, Rabat, and Meknes
- Combine adventure and sightseeing with guided tours and exhilarating activities
- Enjoy the best of Moroccan cuisine at fine restaurants in every city
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Casablanca, Transfer to Rabat & Half-Day Tour | Rabat |
| Day 2 | Transfer to Chefchaouen | Chefchaouen |
| Day 3 | Transfer to Fes via Volubilis & Meknes | Fes |
| Day 4 | Tour of Fes, Photography Experience, Dining at L'Amandier Palais Faraj | Fes |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Merzouga via Erfoud, Camel Ride | Merzouga |
| Day 6 | Desert Adventure in Erg Chebbi | Merzouga |
| Day 7 | Transfer to Ouarzazate via Dadès Valley | Ouarzazate |
| Day 8 | Transfer to Marrakesh via Aït Benhaddou | Marrakesh |
| Day 9 | Tour of Marrakesh, Spa at the Mandarin Oriental, Dinner & Show at Azar | Marrakesh |
| Day 10 | Exclusive Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon Ride, High Tea at the Royal Mansour | Marrakesh |
| Day 11 | Transfer to Essaouira, Dining at Le Salon Oriental | Essaouira |
| Day 12 | Tour Essaouira, Kitesurfing Adventure, Empowering Communities Visit | Essaouira |
| Day 13 | Transfer to Casablanca, Tour Hassan II Mosque | Casablanca |
| Day 14 | Depart Casablanca |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Casablanca, Transfer to Rabat & Half-Day Tour
Welcome to Morocco! Your luxury vacation begins with a seamless VIP arrival and immigration journey through Casablanca airport. A personal chauffeur will greet you for your 80-minute private transfer to one of Rabat's most prestigious hotels, the Hôtel La Tour Hassan Palace. Savor your first glass of traditional mint tea, a symbol of a warm welcome, then relax and unwind at the 5-star hotel, which was built in 1912 and is a master at the art of Moroccan hospitality.
Later, your exclusive tour of Rabat will uncover hidden gems and history among the UNESCO World Heritage-listed white architecture that defines Morocco's capital. Visit the Royal Palace, and delve into the Chellah Necropolis, a mesmerizing site with remnants of Roman and Islamic civilizations. Marvel at the grandeur of the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohamed V, testaments to Morocco's cultural heritage. Lose yourself in the medina's bustling, vibrant souks and seek tranquility in the Andalusian Gardens before exiting via the grand entrance of the Kasbah des Oudaïas.
Day 2: Transfer to Chefchaouen
Roll through the picturesque Moroccan countryside, passing rolling hills, fertile valleys, and charming rural villages, on today's 4.5-hour private transfer to the famed "Blue City" of Chefchaouen. Perched beneath the raw peaks of the Rif mountains, this is one of Morocco's prettiest towns, an artsy, blue-washed mountain village that feels like its own world. On arrival, Choose to lose yourself in the mazelike streets of the vibrant blue city or relax on the rooftop terrace of your accommodations at the 5-star Lina Ryad & Spa, taking in views of the medina below.
Later you'll join a two-hour private tour of "Chaoeun," as it's known to the locals. Founded in 1471 as a stronghold against the Portuguese, Chefchaouen holds deep cultural significance. Its eight mosques, zaouias, and marabouts (religious buildings and schools) bear testament to its status as a holy town. The old medina is a mosaic of Moroccan and Andalusian influences with red-tiled roofs, bright-blue buildings, and streets that lead to Plaza Uta el-Hammam. End the day at Ras el Ma Spring, the town's primary water source, at one of the quaint riverside cafés for tea, then walk to Hotel Atlas for sweeping city views.
Day 3: Transfer to Fes via Volubilis & Meknes
Today's 4.5-hour private transfer lands you in the imperial city of Fes. On the way, stop at the well-preserved Volubilis, a 2,000-year-old Roman complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore merchant homes, temples, and vibrant mosaics, and learn about its history as part of the Roman Empire, exporting wheat and exotic animals. Continue to Moulay Idriss, one of Morocco's holiest cities and where Islam was introduced in 789 CE. This ancient town holds great significance as a pilgrimage site and the burial place of Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty.
Then, head to Meknes, founded in the 11th century by Sultan Moulay Ismail. Under his reign from 1672 to 1727 CE, Meknes transformed into a resplendent capital. Explore the compact medina, the architectural wonders of Medersa Bou Inania, and the breathtaking Dar Jamaï, a palace that exudes 19th-century grandeur. Traverse the Ville Impériale district, where gardens, palaces, the awe-inspiring gate of Bab al-Mansour, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Royal Stables showcase the best of the city.
After, continue to Fes, where you'll check into Riad Fès, a 5-star hotel set within a luxurious riad once owned by one of the most illustrious families in the city. Inspired by tradition, the riad has been restored in the style of a 14th-century Moroccan palace with all the contemporary comforts you could desire.
Day 4: Private Tour of Fes, Photography Experience, Dining at L'Amandier Palais Faraj
Let a knowledgeable local guide lead you on an exclusive private tour of the labyrinthine medina of Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage site with more than 9,000 streets. Discover the cultural heritage of this ancient city as you delve into its most esteemed monuments and sites, including the Bou Inania Madrasa, Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University, and Chaouara Tannery. Uncover a treasure trove of traditional craftsmanship with a luxurious shopping experience. Your guide will help you navigate the alleys to find one-of-a-kind textiles, exquisite carpets, handcrafted pottery, and leather goods.
This afternoon, a local expert and photographer will help you make memories in Fes while artfully documenting your experiences. Explore the city's hidden beauty and immortalize its essence with professional pictures—the perfect souvenir to show family and friends. As evening falls, step into a world of culinary opulence at L'Amandier Palais Faraj, the epitome of luxurious dining in Fes. This remarkable panoramic restaurant offers the very best of Moroccan gastronomy, where each plate is a harmonious symphony of traditional techniques and contemporary flair.
Day 5: Transfer to Merzouga via Erfoud, Camel Ride
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Today's grand journey to the Sahara Desert weaves through a tapestry of shifting desert dunes, rugged mountains, and picturesque towns, offering a captivating glimpse into the diverse beauty of the country. Your eight-hour private transfer departs Fes early, passing the striking Ziz Valley and Middle Atlas mountains, where verdant oases appear within the arid landscape. This scenic drive allows you to witness the plentiful flora and fauna, with occasional sightings of Barbary macaques swinging from the trees. You'll pause in Midelt for lunch.
Just before reaching Erfoud, you'll start to see the ever-shifting Saharan dunes. This busy market town is known for its Date Festival, fossil mining, and artisan factories. Visit a local collective to see how fossil-rich rock is turned into beautiful objects like tables, plates, and bowls. Near Merzouga, you'll swap the car for a camel and ride through the undulating dunes, arriving at your luxurious desert camp just in time to witness the sunset.
Settle into your 5-star, Bedouin-style desert tent, then climb up the nearest dune to watch the sunset display its color show across the sands. Return to the camp and gather around the warm glow of the campfire, letting the melodies of traditional Berber music set the scene as you enjoy a sumptuous local dinner beneath open skies.
Day 6: Desert Adventure in Erg Chebbi
Unearth the well-guarded secrets of Erg Chebbi as you delve into the heart of this mystical sand sea with a private 4WD expedition. As you dip into valleys and conquer hills, you'll learn about the erg, which stretches over 17 miles (28 km) from north to south, with some peaks reaching nearly 500 feet (150 m). Visit Khemliya village to meet a Gnawa family and listen to their spiritual healing Gnaoua music. This repetitive yet lively soul-stirring genre is deeply rooted in Moroccan traditions but originates from the sub-Saharan region.
After connecting with culture, it's time to chase an adrenaline rush. Seize the chance to ride a quad bike or dune buggy and carve a path through the towering golden waves at speed. These off-road vehicles will allow you to navigate the rugged terrain and conquer dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see. Return to your luxury camp, and as the sun begins its descent, climb the nearest dune once more to witness nature paint a colorful sunset across the dunes. Back around the campfire, a delectable dinner awaits, accompanied by the melodies of traditional Berber music.
Day 7: Transfer to Ouarzazate via Dadès Valley
Wave goodbye to the desert and pass verdant palm groves and picturesque kasbahs as your private transfer winds past traditional mud-brick villages and ancient fortified settlements on the five-hour drive to Ouarzazate. Admire the grandeur of the Todra Gorge, where towering cliffs of ocher and limestone rise on either side of the road, then continue through the stunning Dadès Valley, also known as the "Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs." Here you'll stop to meet the warm Berber people, the Indigenous inhabitants of this region, and hear their stories.
Finally, you'll approach Ouarzazate, a town known as "Morocco's Hollywood," where you'll be greeted by the imposing Kasbah Taourirt, a magnificent fortress that once served as a residence for the powerful Glaoui family. Step inside and explore its labyrinthine corridors, adorned with intricate carvings and ornate decorations, before checking into your own 5-star kasbah. Oz Palace is a remarkable hotel that was inspired by the architectural heritage of Morocco's south. Drop your bags inside your luxuriously appointed room before touring a movie studio or the Musée du Cinema.
Day 8: Transfer to Marrakesh via Aït Benhaddou
Today's journey to Marrakesh takes you through the heart of Morocco, revealing the rich heritage of Berber villages and the grandeur of the mighty Atlas mountains. Your first stop is the legendary Aït Benhaddou, a medieval marvel and UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the alleys and passageways of this ancient ksar, or climb up to the old granary for breathtaking views of the kasbah and historic camel caravan routes. Continue over the Tizi n'Tichka pass, which is the highest in Morocco at 7,414 feet (2,260 m), and into buzzing Marrakesh.
On arrival in the "Red City," settle into your luxury hotel, the prestigious La Sultana Marrakech. This luxurious historic 5-star hotel is set within the UNESCO-listed medina and features magnificent rooftop views across the city. Stay within your sanctuary and garden oasis, and soak up the views as the sun sets over Marrakesh. Or venture out into the bustling city and follow your nose to the energetic Jemaa el-Fna square.
Day 9: Tour of Marrakesh, Spa at the Mandarin Oriental, Dinner & Show at Azar
Immerse yourself in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and scents as you discover Marrakesh with a local guide. Your private half-day tour begins at the illustrious Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of intricately-carved wooden ceilings, tiled courtyards, and serene gardens. Venture by the Koutoubia Mosque, the symbol of Marrakesh, then follow your guide into the colorful medina, a maze of alleyways lined with riads, souks, and workshops. Explore vibrant textiles, aromatic spices, ornate jewelry, and leather goods before stopping for lunch.
Later this afternoon, experience the art of hammam at Mandarin Oriental's luxury spa, where a warm ambience transports you to a world of serenity and centuries-old traditions. The traditional hammam bathing experience is deeply rooted in Moroccan culture. Surrender to the gentle steam as it envelops your body and opens your pores. Relax on heated marble as a therapist expertly exfoliates your skin, and feel the layers of impurities and stress melt away. The 5-star hotel blends ancient traditions and modern luxury, so you'll emerge feeling refreshed, restored, and radiant.
Tonight you'll connect with Moroccan culture and cuisine at Azar Restaurant, where a captivating dinner show awaits. Step into this world of Moroccan elegance and take a seat to enjoy a sumptuous feast of traditional Moroccan dishes before the show begins. Expect a vibrant showcase of talented musicians, dancers, and performers from across Morocco, showcasing the diversity and beauty of the North African country.
Day 10: Exclusive Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon Ride, High Tea at the Royal Mansour
Witness the desert landscape of Marrakesh from above with an exclusive hot-air balloon ride this morning. Despite the early wake-up call, it's worth it to see the sunrise over the red desert. The serene atmosphere created by the pastel colors, soft lighting, and crisp early-morning air offers a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city. Admire the stunning scenery as the Koutoubia Mosque and the Atlas mountains become miniature marvels in the distance. A traditional Moroccan breakfast awaits you on the ground, bringing you back to earth.
Afternoon tea provides a rare moment as everything else is put on hold. Enjoy exquisite flavors, delicate drinks, joyful chatter, and old-world charms with high tea at the enchanting Royal Mansour, a palatial oasis crafted by more than 1,500 local artisans in an ode to traditional Moroccan architecture. Savor sweet and savory snacks, then wander the opulent palace hotel gardens.
Day 11: Private Transfer to Essaouira, Dining at Le Salon Oriental
Follow the curves of Morocco's coastline on today's 3.5-hour private transfer to the charming coastal town of Essaouira. Essaouira, often referred to as the "White Pearl," awaits you with its picturesque charm and vibrant atmosphere. This city has a long history of diverse influences, from Indigenous Berbers and Phoenicians to Romans, and today it's a hub for the artsy and young surfer crowd.
In Essaouira, you'll stay at the 5-star Heure Bleue Palais, a traditional Moroccan riad steeped in history. This historic home is your tranquil oasis. Spend the afternoon at the heated rooftop pool, or book yourself in for a hammam spa experience. Later today, you'll have an exquisite luxury dining experience at Le Salon Oriental. The menu is a true celebration of Moroccan cuisine, so savor every bite while you enjoy warm hospitality and luxurious interiors.
Day 12: Tour Essaouira, Kitesurfing Adventure, Empowering Communities Visit
Explore Essaouira with a knowledgeable private guide, starting at the clock tower in the fortified medina, which covers an impressive 75 acres (30 ha). Visit the Jewish Mellah, admire the Skala de la Kasbah fortress, stroll along ancient ramparts, discover the Orson Welles Garden, and immerse yourself in the raucous souk. Visit the bustling port, where fishermen skillfully unload their daily catch and traditional blue boats dot the harbor. Throughout, your private guide will share historical anecdotes and bring Essaouira's stories to life.
This afternoon, turn the thrills up with an exhilarating private kitesurfing lesson at Sidi Kaouki Beach. Pop on a wetsuit and learn essential techniques to control and maneuver the kite. With each passing moment, you'll gain confidence as you navigate the wind and waves. Later, visit the Argania Association, a catalyst for positive change. This association collaborates with local and national organizations to improve living conditions and create income-generating projects. You'll hear stories from individuals whose lives have been positively transformed through the programs.
Day 13: Transfer to Casablanca, Tour Hassan II Mosque
Swap Essaouira's tranquil shores for the cosmopolitan oasis of Casablanca this morning, Morocco's largest city. A private driver will take you on the 4.5-hour drive, so sit back in plush leather seats and enjoy the comfortable journey. Check-in at Le Casablanca Hotel, a contemporary Art Deco-inspired 5-star hotel located in a charming residential area near the greens of the Royal Golf Course.
Casablanca's most iconic sight is the Hassan II Mosque, a true architectural marvel. The largest mosque in Morocco, and the only one open to non-Muslim tourists, you'll join a private one-hour tour to learn about its history and discover the beautiful green hues, mosaic tiles, and lavish details. The 650-foot (200 m) minaret stands tall as the tallest in Morocco and the world's tallest minaret. Admire the intricate exterior and the vast courtyard, capable of accommodating up to 80,000 worshippers.
Day 14: Depart Casablanca
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