Desert Elegance: The Luxury of Morocco's Southern Landscapes - 14 Days

Highlights

• Stay in luxury four- and 5-star hotels, riads, and resorts
• Explore the desert, ride a camel, and sleep at a luxury desert camp
• Enjoy fine dining experiences and local village lunches
• Seek adventure with a hot-air balloon flight, cycling tour, and kitesurfing lesson
• Connect with culture on private walking tours and artisan workshops

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Marrakesh, Dinner at Dar Yacout

Welcome to Morocco! Your luxury vacation begins with a seamless VIP arrival and immigration journey through Marrakesh airport. A personal chauffeur will greet you for your private transfer to one of Marrakesh's most prestigious palace hotels, La Mamounia. Discover the Moroccan art of living when you check into this authentic yet modern historic 5-star stay. Charlie Chaplin and Winston Churchill have stayed here, and now it's your turn to make memories. If you're hungry, stop by one of four restaurants, or relax at the rooftop lounge or by the pool.

Day 2: Tour of Marrakesh, Majorelle Gardens or Le MACAAL, Dine at Royal Mansour

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, stunning tiled courtyards, and serene gardens. Next, 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. Then venture to the Koutoubia Mosque, the symbol of Marrakesh, before stopping for lunch.

Your guide will leave you at the renowned Al Fassia, a luxurious Moroccan restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine and elegant surroundings. Relax in the tranquil setting, savoring the harmonious blend of Moroccan flavors. In the afternoon, choose to discover Majorelle Gardens, a lush oasis where cobalt blue buildings, exotic plants, and serene fountains create an oasis of calm. Or visit Le MACAAL (Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden), a must-visit destination for art lovers featuring both established and emerging artists from across the continent.

As the sun sets, embark on a fine dining journey at the Royal Mansour. Set within the opulent Royal Mansour Hotel, expect local cuisine prepared by world-class chefs, impeccable service, and traditional Moroccan music. With an air of exclusivity, the Royal Mansour restaurant is a feast for the senses and a celebration of Moroccan heritage.

Day 3: Exclusive Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon Ride, Anima Garden, Private Cooking Class

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 shifting 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.

André Heller's Anima Garden is a journey into another world where art and nature are lovingly intertwined. Later this morning, travel 18 miles (30 km) southwest to this 5-acre (2 ha) botanical garden, a wonderland of greenery in an otherwise barren landscape. Then return to the city for a private gourmet cooking class at La Maison Arabe.

Explore the rich flavors and aromatics of Moroccan cuisine with this immersive cooking experience. Under the guidance of a skilled chef, you'll learn the secrets of traditional Moroccan dishes. From traditional tajines to mastering the art of rolling couscous by hand, each step of the cooking process will be carefully explained and demonstrated. Chop, sauté, simmer, and season with this sensory journey into Moroccan cooking. When ready, you'll sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Day 4: Private Transfer to Skoura via Aït Benhaddou & Ouarzazate

Swap Marrakesh for the mountains today when you journey into the High Atlas. Catch glimpses of Mount Toubkal, the highest in the country, as you go past Berber villages of traditional mud-brick homes. Your private driver will pause in Taddert at a local argan oil cooperative, where you can witness the process before crossing over the Tizi n'Tichka pass, the highest in Morocco at 7,414 feet (2,260 m). Stop at Aït Benhaddou's kasbah, a medieval marvel and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the alleys of this ancient ksar (fortress), or climb the old granary for panoramic views.

Continue the descent toward Ouarzazate, a town known as "Morocco's Hollywood," where you can tour a movie studio or visit the Musée du Cinema. Finally, after four hours on the road, you'll reach the tranquil Skoura oasis, where your luxurious accommodation awaits.

Tucked away between palm groves and almond trees at the edge of the desert, Dar Ahlam is a 200-year-old rammed earth kasbah that's been transformed into a 5-star hotel with modern comforts. Check into one of the 14 rooms and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing by the palm-shaded pool or enjoying a massage at the candlelit spa. Later, choose to enjoy a customized dinner at a number of private settings hidden throughout the estate. 

Day 5: Free Time, Horseback Riding Adventure

Wake up in the small paradise known as Dar Ahlam. Today is yours to simply relax and enjoy the serene grounds of the restored 19th-century kasbah set in a remote Sahara desert oasis. Located in a sultan's former hunting grounds, there are 3.7 acres (1.5 ha) of gardens to explore, adorned with date palms, olive trees, fig-trees, and aromatic herbs. Arrange lunch, a picnic, or a luxury massage outdoors, and spend a few hours lounging by the pool.

This afternoon you'll explore the Skoura oasis on horseback. Saddle up on a desert-bred Arabian horse, a breed renowned for its grace and elegance, and follow your exclusive guide through shaded palm groves, meandering rivers, and fertile oases. Gallop through open plains or take a leisurely trot along scenic trails, marveling at the architectural wonders of ancient kasbahs and the heritage of Skoura.  

Day 6: Private Transfer to Zagora via Draa River Valley

After an indulgent breakfast, meet your driver for a private transfer to Zagora, three hours away. Soak up the diverse landscapes of southern Morocco on the road to Agdz. Visit the legendary Amridil Kasbah, a remarkable fortified structure, then continue through the heart of the Draa Valley oasis. Take a leisurely walk through palm groves and meet local inhabitants as they share stories and insights into daily life. Discover the traditional irrigation systems that sustain the oasis, marveling at the ingenious methods used for centuries.

Arrive in Zagora and check in to your luxurious accommodation, Dar Hnini Kasbah. This elegant retreat fuses traditional Moroccan architecture with modern comforts. Take a moment to unwind in the lush gardens amid fragrant flowers and the gentle rustle of palm trees. Take a dip in the swimming pool, book a rejuvenating spa treatment, or simply lounge in the comfort of your well-appointed room ahead of a farm-to-table dining experience at the tranquil estate.

Day 7: Meet Locals by Bike, Tamegroute Pottery & Desert Wonders

On this morning's memorable biking adventure, you'll have the opportunity to meet and interact with local farmers, share laughs with curious children, and meet wise Berber people who carry the rich traditions of the region. This unique cultural exchange offers you a deeper understanding of the Draa Valley's heritage and is a chance to forge meaningful connections with the warm-hearted locals.

Later, venture to Tamegroute, a village 9 miles (15 km) south that's known for its pottery. Discover the unique pottery techniques that have been passed down through generations, originating from the city of Fes. Witness skilled artisans molding and shaping clay into intricate designs, creating beautiful and functional pottery pieces that reflect the rich artistic traditions of the region. While here, visit the Zaouia Naciria, an ancient Quranic library that houses centuries-old manuscripts and has attracted ulama (scholars) and students seeking knowledge and enlightenment. 

Finally, continue south to the Dunes of Tinfou. These windswept dunes, easily accessible and visible from the road, are smaller in size compared to famous destinations like Merzouga or Chebbi but still offer a glimpse into the captivating world of the desert. Feel the soft sand beneath your feet and soak in the serene surroundings as you immerse yourself in this mini-erg, a prelude to the vast desert landscapes that lie beyond.

Day 8: Journey to Erg Chigaga & Azalaï Desert Camp

Follow in the footsteps of the Berber nomads today, starting in Zagora. Explore the historic Jewish Quarter of Amzerou, where the rich cultural tapestry of the region unfolds. Venture through palm groves, and stop at Mhamid, the gateway of the Draa Valley and a place that feels like the "end of civilization." Switch to sturdy Jeeps for an exhilarating 40-mile (65 km) off-road adventure. Traverse a desert landscape of rolling dunes and vast plateaus, then find solace under the shade of palm trees in the Ras Nkhel oasis, where a delightful picnic lunch awaits.

Continues to the dunes of Erg Chigaga just before sunset. Ride a camel through the dunes as the golden evening light paints the desert in hues of red and yellow. As the day draws to a close, you'll reach the 5-star luxury Azalaï Desert Camp. Feast on traditional Moroccan dishes for dinner, then gather around the campfire where the rhythmic beats of drum music set the tone as you watch for shooting stars.

Day 9: Private Transfer to Taroudant via the Anti-Atlas Mountains

Wake up early to witness the first rays of sunshine over the desert. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast prepared by your hosts before jumping into a comfortable 4WD. Discover the old Paris-Dakar route to Foum Zguid and cross Lake Irqui, a dried-up salt lake that becomes a swamp during rainy periods. In this unique national park, you'll discover wild animals such as lizards, snakes, gazelles, or even hyenas with a bit of luck.

On the 5.5-hour private transfer, you'll pause halfway for lunch in the Berber village of Taznakht. After, continue to Taroudant, a caravan city known as "Little Marrakesh" thanks to its high city ramparts, historic Old Town, and lively souks. A few minutes from the ramparts of the medina, surrounded by dozens of acres of fields and olive groves, you'll check in to the 4-star Dar Al Hossoun. Relax at the specially-designed garden lodge and enjoy a delicious dinner on the rooftop terrace or by the pool. 

Day 10: Experience Berber Culture at Tiout, Private Transfer to Agadir

Just 12 miles (19 km) away, Tiout is a hidden picturesque oasis adorned with undulating palm trees that sway gently in the breeze. On arrival, you'll be greeted with open arms by the Berber locals, who will welcome you into their world. Prepare to experience their rich traditions and customs firsthand with an authentic lunch. After sharing a meal together, embark on a donkey ride through the palm grove at a relaxed pace, pausing to absorb the tranquility of the oasis.

This afternoon you'll take a 90-minute private transfer to Agadir, a cool, laid-back, modern city with a buzzy marina. On arrival, settle into the luxurious 5-star Hotel Sofitel Agadir Thalassa. Here 49 suites overlook a private beach, offering a relaxing and lavish stay in the modern city. Enjoy a seaside stroll along the promenade and stop to join the locals at buzzy beachfront bars, bistros, and ice cream shops.

Day 11: Souss Massa Wildlife Safari, Golf & Spa Experience, Dining at La Table Du Golf

Today's tour of Souss Massa National Park reveals the wild landscapes of the Atlantic coast with beautiful beaches and rolling dunes, lush grasslands, and wildlife encounters. Keep an eye out for some of the park's remarkable inhabitants, including the oryx, the largest antelope of the semi-desert regions of the Sahara, the addax antelope, elegant and small gazelle dorcas, the grand North African ostrich, and the bald ibis, among the rarest birds in the world. This park is a haven for birdwatchers, with more than 250 species of birds inhabiting its diverse habitats.

Later today, pick up a golf club for a special experience at Golf du Soleil. Set against the backdrop of towering peaks, players of all levels will perfect their swings under the guidance of esteemed professionals. Sandwiched between the ocean, countryside, and mountains, Golf du Soleil offers three meticulously-designed courses. After (or instead of) the green, retreat to the ultimate sanctuary of tranquility at Tikida Golf Palace Spa. Go on a bespoke journey of serenity and relaxation with a rejuvenating, traditional hammam experience.

Finally, end the day with an extraordinary dining experience at La Table du Golf, where renowned chef Adnan Boumanqar will take you on a culinary voyage like no other. With a deep appreciation for the subtlety and flavors of Moroccan cuisine, the menu artfully combines traditional techniques with modern influences to showcase the richness of the local terroir. 

Day 12: Private Transfer to Essaouira, La Madada Dining Experience

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 a luxury dining experience at La Madada. The menu is a true celebration of Moroccan cuisine, so savor every bite while you enjoy warm hospitality and live music.

Day 13: Tour Essaouira, Woodworking Experience, Kitesurfing Lesson

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 vibrant 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.

Essaouira is a city renowned for its exceptional cedar woodwork, and this afternoon you'll unleash your creativity with the help of local artisans. On this hands-on journey, you'll visit shops near the iconic Skala de la Ville, speak to skilled woodwork artisans, and even make your own personalized keepsake. Later, turn the thrills up with an exhilarating private kitesurfing lesson at Sidi Kaouki Beach. Pop on a wetsuit and learn essential techniques of controlling and maneuvering the kite. With each passing moment, you'll gain confidence as you navigate the wind and waves.

Day 14: Empowering Communities Visit, Transfer to Marrakesh & Depart

On your final morning in Morocco, you'll get to know the Argania Association, a catalyst for positive change in local human development. This association collaborates with local and national organizations to improve living conditions and create income-generating projects. During your visit, you'll hear stories from individuals whose lives have been positively transformed through the programs and gain a deeper understanding of the holistic approach to community development and mission to empower children, young people, women, and persons with disabilities.

As your Moroccan adventure draws to a close, enjoy a comfortable and convenient three-hour private transfer from Essaouira to Marrakesh airport, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey. Sit back and relax as you pass the stunning landscapes and contemplate your luxurious and adventurous two-week journey. Safe travels!

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