Marrakech Airport – Marrakech City

Welcome to Marrakech!

Upon your arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, look out for the friendly face of your chauffeur waiting for you in the arrivals hall.

After assisting you with your luggage, your private transfer will take you to your hotel in the heart of the city. Don’t forget to look out the window and admire this majestic city.

Once you’ve checked into the riad, feel free to enjoy the rest of the evening at your own pace and leisure.

Marrakech City Tour with Local Guide

Immerse Yourself in the Sights of Marrakech

After breakfast in your Hotel/Riad, set out to explore Marrakech, the “Red City of Morocco.” You will visit the most important sites of historical and cultural interest, including the Koutoubia Tower, the Saadian Tombs, the Bahia Palace, and the main square, Place Jemaa el-Fnaa.

After lunch at a restaurant near the square, you will walk through the souks and discover hundreds of handicrafts. In the afternoon, you will have some free time to wander by yourself through other parts of the city.

You will also have the chance to visit the Majorelle Gardens, optionally, if you wish.

Marrakech is nicknamed the “Red City” for its old red sandstone city walls and buildings. It has Berber rather than Arab roots and was once an important trading capital for tribes of the Atlas Mountains.

Indulge your senses as you explore the labyrinth of souks, tucked behind ordinary restaurants and shops.

Check out Souk el Attarin, Souk Chouari, and Souk Smata for a selection of spices, woodwork, and babouche (traditional Moroccan slippers).

Admire the fine example of Moroccan Islamic architecture at the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a 16th-century Koranic school. Take note of the ornate detail of its interior: carved cedar ceilings, sculpted plaster, and zellij tiling.

Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley

Your journey begins with a prompt 08:00 AM pick-up from your hotel in Marrakech, where you’ll meet your driver-guide and begin the scenic drive through the majestic High Atlas Mountains. As you ascend the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass, enjoy panoramic views of Berber villages clinging to the hillsides and rugged landscapes that mark the gateway to southern Morocco.

By late morning, you’ll arrive at the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its earthen clay architecture and cinematic history. Here, a local guide will lead you on a walking tour through the ancient ksar, sharing insights into its construction, its role in Saharan trade routes, and the many films shot on location, such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, continue your journey toward Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Hollywood of Africa.” While driving through the town, you’ll catch glimpses of the famous Atlas Film Studios and the impressive Taourirt Kasbah, which stands as a testament to the town’s historical importance.

Your route then takes you through the beautiful Valley of Roses, passing through Kelaat M’gouna, known for its fragrant rose fields and locally made cosmetics. If your visit falls in spring, the blooming season offers a truly enchanting experience.

In the late afternoon, you’ll arrive in the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Valley, carved by the Dades River into spectacular rock formations and winding gorges. Upon arrival, check into your charming Riad or hotel in Dades, where you’ll enjoy a delicious traditional dinner and a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the natural beauty of southern Morocco.

Dinner and Overnight at the Hotel/Riad in Dades.

Dades Valley – Todgha Gorges – Sahara Desert of Merzouga

Departure from your hotel in Dades Gorges after a typical Moroccan breakfast. Travel along the Road of 1000 Kasbahs, passing colorful Berber villages in the Dades Valley.

45 km further, you will arrive in Tineghir, known for its beautiful palm groves and Jewish quarter. When you reach Todra Gorges, enjoy free time to trek along the canyon walls that rise about 300 meters high—a favorite spot for mountain climbers.

Afterwards, continue toward the Erg Chebbi Sand Dunes in the Merzouga Sahara Desert. You’ll stop for lunch on the way before reaching Erfoud. Upon arrival at the Erg Chebbi dunes, you will take a camel ride during sunset to reach the oasis where the desert camp is located.

Spend the night in a traditional desert bivouac camp in Merzouga under nomadic tents—or outside under shooting stars. Enjoy drumming with the camel drivers.

Dinner and overnight in Merzouga Sahara Desert Camp.

Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Ifrane – Fes

Camel Ride in the Village of Merzouga

Today, wake up early to witness what may be the best sunrise of your life over the Sahara dunes of Erg Chebbi. After enjoying the view, return to the camp for breakfast.

Then, peacefully camel-trek back to the village of Merzouga. Enjoy the morning ride as the dunes change color with the rising sun.

Once in Merzouga, meet your driver and continue your journey to Fes.

A mystical journey across Morocco’s spectacular landscapes awaits. You’ll travel through the Ziz Valley with its lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs, followed by a visit to a cedar forest near Azrou where you may encounter Barbary macaques.

You’ll then pass through the charming alpine town of Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” before continuing on to Fes.

Fes – Fes City Tour with Local Guide

Delve into the Rich History of Fes

After breakfast in your Riad, set out to explore Fes, Morocco’s oldest city. A local guide will take you to important historical sites such as the Royal Palace gate and the old Jewish Quarter, or “Mellah,” dating from the 14th century—the oldest in Morocco.

Visit Al-Qarawiyyin University, founded in the 9th century and considered the oldest continuously operating university in the world. You’ll also see the famous Fes leather tanneries and the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss, an important Muslim pilgrimage site.

In the afternoon, visit a tile cooperative to learn how Morocco’s iconic tiles are made.

Overnight at the Hotel/Riad in Fes.

Fes – Rabat – Casablanca

Transfer to the capital of Morocco.

Set off for Rabat, the capital city on the Atlantic coast, known for its elegance and landmarks.

Begin with a visit to the Chellah, a fortified necropolis. Then, see the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture housing the tombs of Moroccan kings and princes. Visit the Royal Palace gate and the Oudaya Kasbah, an enchanting historic district.

Later, continue to Casablanca and visit the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Africa. Marvel at its 210-meter-high minaret that towers over the city.

Overnight at the hotel in Casablanca.

Goodbye, Morocco!

All good things must come to an end, but we hope you’ve enjoyed exploring the very best that Northern Africa has to offer—from its rich and unique history to its magnificent natural beauty and welcoming people.

At an arranged time, you’ll be transferred from your hotel to Marrakech Menara International Airport for your flight home.

We hope you had a memorable trip and wish you safe onward travels!