Highlights
- See the highlights of Madrid while sampling delicious tapas
- Ride a hot-air balloon over Madrid and a yacht in Málaga
- Go on mountain hikes and walk the Caminito del Rey
- Explore the medinas and back alleys in Tangier and Marrakesh
- Ride camels in the desert and visit the Aït Benhaddou kasbah
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Madrid (Spain), Tapas Tour | Madrid |
| Day 2 | Hot-Air Balloon Ride & Segway Tour | Madrid |
| Day 3 | Day Hike in Sierra de Guadarrama | Madrid |
| Day 4 | Transfer to Málaga, Optional Activities | Málaga |
| Day 5 | Hike the Caminito del Rey, Sunset Cruise | Málaga |
| Day 6 | Transfer to Tangier (Morocco), Optional Activities | Tangier |
| Day 7 | Transfer to Fes, Tour the Medina | Fes |
| Day 8 | Day Trip to Sefrou, Artisan Craft Center | Fes |
| Day 9 | Transfer to Midelt via High Atlas Mountains | Midelt |
| Day 10 | Transfer to Merzouga, Sunset Camel Ride | Merzouga |
| Day 11 | Transfer to Boumalne Dades | Boumalne Dades |
| Day 12 | Transfer to Marrakesh via Aït Benhaddou | Marrakesh |
| Day 13 | Marrakesh Guided Tour | Marrakesh |
| Day 14 | Depart Marrakesh |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Madrid (Spain), Tapas Tour
Welcome to Spain! With a settled history dating back thousands of years, you can bet this nation has culture to spare. And what better introduction to a country's heritage than through its food? That's exactly what you'll do when you arrive in Madrid. At the airport, a driver will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in the city.
After checking in, you'll meet your guide and head out to experience the most Spanish of culinary offerings: tapas (literally "tops" or "caps"). These are small plates of food served in bars, bodegas, and restaurants, sometimes for free, accompanied by beer or wine. During this three-hour flavor extravaganza, your guide will take you to the authentic spots where local madrileños eat.
During the tapeo (tapas crawl), you'll stop at traditional family-run bodegas that have been serving fresh tapas paired with beer and wine for generations. As you hop between historic taverns and centuries-old bars, you'll nibble on delicious tidbits and sip local wine as you learn the history of Madrid, which was founded back in the ninth century. The final stop is at a famous restaurant serving delicious cuisine from the north of Spain.
Day 2: Hot-Air Balloon Ride & Segway Tour
This morning you'll see Madrid and its surrounding countryside from a unique perspective: in the basket of a hot-air balloon. It begins with a transfer to the departure area, where the balloon awaits. After hopping into the basket, you'll float high above the city and the Meseta Central (Spanish plateau). As you travel amid silent splendor, you'll enjoy panoramic views of Madrid and the mountains to the west. After enjoying the scenery, you'll descend from the clouds down to terra firma.
Later, back in the city, you'll embark on another fun excursion, this time on two wheels. It begins when you hop on a Segway for a 1.5-hour ride around Madrid, hitting all the highlights along the way. Your expert guide will lead you to areas like the Habsburg district. This is the city's historic heart, known in Spanish as El Madrid de Los Austrias. Here, you'll see the 18th-century Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, and the expansive Plaza Mayor, which dates to the 15th century.
Other famous landmarks you'll see on the tour include the Prado Museum (home to a fine collection of European art), the square of Puerta del Sol, and the sprawling El Retiro Park. You'll even ride to Plaza de Santa Ana. This square is located in Barrio las Letras, a hotbed of nightlife and tapas bars.
Day 3: Day Hike in Sierra de Guadarrama
After breakfast, you'll meet your driver for the ride an hour north of Madrid to Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. This 131-square-mile (340 sq km) protected area is known for its scenic hiking trails, which you'll take advantage of on this half-day trip. Your destination within the park is Laguna Grande de Peñalara, a famous glacial lake nestled amid incredible alpine scenery.
Once there, you'll hit the trail on an easy route that takes about an hour to complete. As you go, you'll hike through forests and over mountain ridges offering stunning views of the surrounding Castille Ranges. Throughout the route, there are lookout points where you can stop for great photos on your way to Laguna Grande, which sits on the slopes of the Peñalara massif. Another optional route up takes two hours, snaking through pine forests and passing different lagoons on the way to Laguna Grande. At the end of the day, you'll transfer back to Madrid.
Day 4: Transfer to Málaga, Optional Activities
In the morning, you'll transfer from your hotel to Atocha Station via private car. There, you'll board a train for the three-hour ride south into Spain's Andalusia region and the coastal city of Málaga. Upon arrival, a private car will pick you up and take you to your hotel. You'll then have the rest of the day to enjoy this sun-kissed metropolis—which happens to be the birthplace of Pablo Picasso.
If the weather's right, you can head to the city center and laze on Málaga's golden beach of La Malagueta. To get away from the crowds, head about an hour east of the city to the fishing village of Nerja. Known for its coastal cliffs and beautiful beaches, the town is just as famous for the Caves of Nerja, a series of caverns that stretch 5 miles (3 km). There's even a cave theater that holds regular concerts.
Other sights include the remodeled Port of Málaga (perfect for a waterfront stroll) and the 16th-century Málaga Cathedral, which features 131-foot ceilings, 15 chapels, and church organs with more than 4,000 pipes. As for culture, you can visit a number of museums, like the Pompidou Centre, which displays works by Frida Kahlo and Francis Bacon, among others. Of course, the most famous is the Picasso Museum, which houses 200 works by the master of cubism and Málaga's favorite son.
Day 5: Hike Caminito del Rey, Sunset Cruise
Get ready for an adventure today as you transfer an hour north of Málaga to the Caminito del Rey for a day trip. This almost mythical hiking route comprises a network of walkways built along a deep gorge carved out by the Guadalhorce River. At times, the gorge reaches harrowing depths of 2,297 feet (700 m).
You'll arrive at the north entrance, put on your safety equipment, then head off on the trail. As you hike, you'll be treated to incredible views of the river winding through the valley below. This one-way route typically takes about three to four hours to complete. Once you've conquered the "King's Little Path," you'll return to Málaga and have some time to relax.
Later in the afternoon, you'll head to the marina for another adventure. Here, you'll hop aboard a catamaran and enjoy a scenic ride along the golden Andalusia coast. Feel the fresh sea breeze as you watch the sun dip behind the mountains and ignite the sky in fiery shades of red and orange. As it does, toast the scene with a glass of Champagne before heading back to port.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 6: Transfer to Tangier (Morocco), Optional Activities
Wake up early and meet your driver for the two-hour ride down the coast to Tarifa, the southernmost point in continental Europe. At the port, you'll board a ferry for the six-hour ride across the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco. Your destination is Tangier, a dynamic coastal city full of contradictions. Here, you'll find everything that defines Morocco with a dash of French and Spanish culture. There's also a bohemian spirit here that has attracted members of the counterculture for generations.
Upon arrival, you'll transfer to your hotel and can then head out and explore on a self-guided tour. You can start at historic districts like the Kasbah (fortress) and Medina (walled Old Town). Visit highlights like the Petit Socco square and the 17th-century Sultan's Palace, now a museum featuring antiquities from throughout Moroccan civilization. Continue strolling through the narrow lanes leading to Bab Bhar (Gate to the Sea), which offers fantastic views of the Strait of Gibraltar, the Iberian Peninsula, the port of Tangier, and the Ville Nouvelle (New Town).
During the walk, you can explore hidden corners of the city filled with tiny restaurants, textile studios, communal ovens, and other cultural minutiae. And if you like, wander up to the Place de France. This busy plaza is the center of modern Tangier and features the famous Grand Café de Paris and the Hotel El Minzah. Once upon a time, this is where you could find artists and writers such as Tennessee Williams, Jack Kerouac, Muhammad Asad, Truman Capote, and William S. Burroughs. By the end of the experience, you'll begin to understand Tangier like a local.
Day 7: Transfer to Fes, Tour the Medina
In the morning, you'll leave the coast on a 4.5-hour drive south from Tangier to Fes. This is one of Morocco's famous Imperial Cities—places that at one time were the country's capital. The oldest of Morocco's Imperial Cities (it was founded in the eighth century), Fes was the capital for over 400 years, beginning in the 13th century. Today it remains a cultural and religious center.
After checking into your riad (traditional Moroccan house with an interior courtyard), you'll meet your personal guide for a half-day walking tour. It begins in Fes' Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most well-preserved in the Arab world. This is because little of Fes has been refurbished over the centuries, which means that wandering its warren of narrow streets is like stepping back in time.
Your guide will lead you through the Medina's two quarters: Fes el Bali and Fes el Jdid. Browse the iconic souks (markets), whose vendors sell everything from spices and fresh produce to leather goods, ceramics, and more. You'll also visit the Mosque and University of al-Qarawiyyin, which was founded in 859 and is the oldest operating university in the world. Next, see the medieval madrasas Bou Inania and Al Attarine, as well as the Najarin Fountain. End the day by enjoying the views from the Merenid Tombs, a group of monumental tombs on a hill overlooking Fes.
Day 8: Day Trip to Sefrou, Artisan Craft Center
Take a day trip into the countryside today as your guide picks you up for the 30-minute ride south of Fes to Sefrou. This ancient walled town enjoys a privileged location nestled between the Middle Atlas mountains and the rolling countryside. It's just this alpine scenery that earned Sefrou the nickname the "Switzerland of Morocco." On this day tour, you'll get to the heart of the region's culture and history.
Regarding the history, Sefrou began as a market town in the Roman era and as a stopping point for merchant caravans traveling between the Mediterranean and the Sahara Desert. As for the culture, Sefrou has always been a melting pot, as Jewish Berber Moroccans and Algerians were settled there for many centuries. Today, the town is famous for its annual Cherry Festival, a vibrant celebration of the cherry harvest, which showcases traditional music, dancing, and a colorful parade.
One highlight of the tour is visiting the Craft Center of Sefrou (Ensemble Artisanal de Sefrou). This beautiful complex is located by the old city and is home to several workshops where artisans engage in woodworking, ceramics, and rug weaving. They also produce the famous handmade djellaba buttons used in traditional Moroccan caftans. Here you'll get to see the painstaking and highly detailed work that goes into making these items. At the end of the day, you'll return to Fes for dinner.
Day 9: Transfer to Midelt via High Atlas Mountains
In the morning, meet your driver and hit the road on a three-hour trip into the High Atlas mountains and the town of Midelt, which is located on the plains. As you enter the High Atlas range, you'll arrive at Ifrane, a little Berber town nicknamed "Moroccan Switzerland" due to the chalet-style architecture reminiscent of the Alps. Enjoy the mountainous scenery, and perhaps stretch your legs on a walk around the European-style Park La Prairie.
As you continue driving, you'll reach the village of Azrou and, after that, head over the Col du Zad Pass at an elevation of 7,146 feet (2,178 m). During the drive, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and cedar forests. Keep an eye out for the local Barbary macaque monkeys, which can be spotted socializing in the trees. As you weave through more towns, including traditional Berber villages, you'll pass along the Moulouya River and its surrounding fruit orchards.
You'll arrive in Midelt around mid-day, and after checking into your accommodation, you can have lunch. Fun fact: Midelt is known as "Apple City" due to the many orchards surrounding the town. The area was actually the first producer of apples in the entire country. After lunch, you'll have free time to explore the town on your own.
Day 10: Transfer to Merzouga, Sunset Camel Ride
Get back in the car this morning for the ride transfer east from Midelt to Merzouga, a small town in the Sahara Desert. It starts with crossing over Tizi n'Talremt Pass and descending into the Ziz Valley, which is dotted with oases and palm clusters. On the way, you'll pass through the 984-foot (300 m) deep Todra Gorge, stopping for an easy walk amid its red limestone cliffs.
Continue to the market town of Erfoud, which is known for its annual date festival, fossil mining, and artisan factories. When you arrive, you'll catch your first glimpse of the Sahara's iconic dunes. Continue farther and you'll see the impressive Erg Chebbi (a sea of windswept dunes) in the distance.
Upon arrival outside of Merzouga, you'll check into your luxury Bedouin-style tent accommodation and enjoy a short break. Then, just before sunset, hop on a camel for a ride through the dunes as the last light turns the Saharan sands fiery shades of red and gold. Return to camp for dinner, followed by time relaxing by the campfire as you enjoy traditional Berber music performed by locals.
Day 11: Transfer to Boumalne Dades
After breakfast, you'll meet your driver and embark on a road trip out of Merzouga and west to Boumalne Dades. This city lies in the Dadès Valley of Tinghir Province, home to some of the most scenic landscapes in the country, including river gorges, mountains, and desert plains dotted with ancient towns and kasbahs (citadels). The trip takes about 4.5 hours, but along the way, you'll stop to enjoy fine views of the desert plains, high mountains, and vast plateaus.
First up is the town of Rissani, which you'll enter through its massive gate. It's the birthplace of the current Alaoui dynasty and highlight landmarks include a 19th-century fortress, a large mosque, and a popular souk. Then continue to the desert oasis town of Tinghir. Here you'll enjoy great views of neighboring villages with traditional adobe houses and vast palm groves that stretch for 30 miles (48 km). Also, in town, you can visit Ali Ait el Haj, the old Jewish quarter, and admire its fascinating architecture.
You'll pass Todra Gorge again before crossing the Dadès River on your way to Kelâat M'Gouna, the "Valley of the Roses." Admire the cultivated rose bushes and visit a rose collective, where you'll learn how artisans convert the petals into rosewater and oil for the cosmetic industry. Your final stop is the city of Boumalne Dades, where you'll check into your accommodation. Enjoy the scenes of arid landscapes and traditional architecture contrasting with the verdant river valley.
Day 12: Transfer to Marrakesh via Aït Benhaddou
Wake up early for the six-hour transfer down from the mountains to Marrakesh. Along the way, you'll stop to admire some historic and cultural landmarks. As you leave Boumalne Dades behind, you'll pass through the "Valley of the Roses once again. You might even catch the famous rose festival if you're here in May. On the roadside, you'll also likely see vendors selling various crafts made from the flowers.
Then continue to the picturesque town of Ouarzazat, a beautiful mud-brick city featured in productions like "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones." You'll even have the option to tour a movie studio here. The town also has a scenic Mellah (Jewish quarter) close to the souks and kasbahs.
Soon enough, you'll reach the medieval Aït Benhaddou, home to Morocco's most famous kasbah (citadel), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The village dates to the 11th century when it was a major point on the trans-Saharan trade route between the mountains, Marrakesh, and the southern desert. You'll stop here to explore the old town's alley, and you can hike up to the old granary for panoramic views of the kasbah and surrounding areas. Afterward, you'll continue driving out of the mountains down into the plains and the city of Marrakesh, where you'll check into your hotel.
Day 13: Marrakesh Guided Tour
In the morning, meet a local guide and embark on a half-day tour of Morocco's famous "Red City." It begins in popular areas like bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square in the city's Medina. Nearby is the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, which dates to 1147. Just south of it is the Kasbah, home to historic landmarks like the Saadien Tombs, Bahia Palace, and the Jewish Quarter.
Throughout the tour, you'll browse the souks and vendors in the merchant districts. You'll also visit Marrakesh's famous tanneries. The city is known for its leather goods; local families have been plying this trade since the 11th century. Another fun stop is at Majorelle Garden, which French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent once owned. You can wander around this 2-acre (1 ha) garden filled with subtropical plants, bamboo, lilies, and palms. At the end of the tour, you'll return to your hotel.
Day 14: Depart Marrakesh
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