The Best of Morocco 2 Weeks Desert Tours
Highlights
Gallery
Description
Embark on the ultimate Moroccan adventure with our comprehensive 16-day, 15-night grand tour, starting and culminating in the bustling metropolis of Casablanca. This meticulously curated itinerary promises an unparalleled exploration of Morocco's rich tapestry—its diverse culture, vibrant languages, exquisite cuisine, and profound historical sites. From the modern architectural marvels to ancient labyrinthine medinas, the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert, and the captivating Atlantic coastline, this journey is designed to immerse you fully in the magic of Morocco.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Casablanca - Arrival Morocco - Rabat
Upon your arrival in Casablanca, Morocco's economic capital, you will be warmly greeted by our professional driver and guide. Depending on your arrival time, you will be transferred directly to your Riad or hotel in Rabat. After settling in, you will commence your exploration of Rabat, the political capital of Morocco. Overlooking the sea, the city is uniquely characterized by its crenellated red ocher walls, extending over 5 km, built during the reign of Sultan Yacoub el-Mansour. You will traverse the authentic medina and its souks offering a genuine glimpse into Moroccan daily life. Your visit includes the historic Kasbah of the Udayas built in the twelfth century. You will then admire the Hassan Tower and explore the remains of the old mosque, alongside the magnificent Mohamed V Mausoleum—a true masterpiece of traditional Moroccan architecture. From there, you will proceed to view the Royal Palace, the distinguished residence of the Merinide dynasty. Dinner and a comfortable overnight stay will be at your hotel or Riad in Rabat.
Day 2 - Rabat - Chefchaouen
After breakfast, we depart from Rabat, embarking on a picturesque journey towards Chefchaouen, Morocco's renowned "Blue City," gracefully nestled within the Rif Mountains. Along the route, you will pass through charming small villages, offering glimpses of traditional Moroccan life. Upon arrival, you will immediately feel the unique, tranquil atmosphere of Chefchaouen. Exploring its distinct blue-painted streets and hidden corners, truly appreciating the relaxed ambiance that defines this mountainous area. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at your hotel or Riad in Chefchaouen.
Day 3 - Chefchaouen - Volubilis - Meknes
Following breakfast, you will have a delightful half-day to further explore Chefchaouen at your leisure or simply relax and absorb its peaceful charm. Later, we depart towards Meknes. Our journey includes a significant stop at Volubilis, the impressive ancient Roman ruins. Here, you will have ample time to explore these remarkably preserved 2000-year-old archaeological remains, marveling at the historical grandeur of a great former Roman outpost. We will also make a brief visit to Moulay Idriss, a revered sacred town, before continuing our drive to Meknes, one of Morocco's distinguished Imperial Cities. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at your Riad in Meknes.
Day 4 - Meknes - Fez
After breakfast, we commence a comprehensive tour of Meknes. Our exploration begins with a tour of its monumental walls, featuring the grand 17th-century gates such as Bab Berdaïne and Bab Khemis. We continue by exploring the city's impressive stables. A significant stop will be made at the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, which historically was the only mosque in Morocco accessible to non-Muslims. We then exit through the famous Bab El Mansour, leading to the expansive Hedim Square. On the opposite side of the square, the Museum of Moroccan Art "Dar Jamai" offers a rich variety of exquisite local handicrafts. Our journey then continues to Fez, where dinner and overnight accommodation will be at your Riad or Hotel.
Day 5 - Fez - Guided Tour
Today, after breakfast, you will embark on a profound guided tour of the Fez medina, recognized as one of the world's largest walled cities and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its labyrinthine narrow streets, bustling with fresh produce, aromatic spices and intricately woven Berber carpets. Your tour will include visits to significant mosques, such as the historic Quaraouiyine Mosque (founded in 859 by Fatima el Fihri) and the Andalusian Mosque (dating back to 860). You will discover beautiful fountains, including the Nejjarine fountain, and explore ancient Medersas (Koranic schools), some established as early as the 13th century. The Batha Palace, now a museum of arts and traditions, the vibrant Chouwara Tanneries, and bustling souks like Souk Attarine, one of the city's liveliest in the city. We will pass by Bab Boujloud with its distinctive green and blue ceramics, explore the Mellah (Jewish Quarter) and the 17th-century Ibn Danan synagogue, and view the King's Palace from outside. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided in Fez.
Day 6 - Fez - Ifran - Midelt - Merzouga
Departing early from Fez, your journey into Morocco's diverse landscapes truly begins. We will pass through Ifrane, a unique winter ski resort. A visit to the cedar forest in Azrou offers an opportunity to observe Barbary monkeys in their natural habitat. Most of the day will be spent winding your way across the Middle Atlas Mountains, through beautiful forests, past natural springs, jagged rock faces, and traditional Berber villages, as you gradually descend towards the Sahara Desert. We will pause for lunch in Midelt, a town renowned for its fossils and geological treasures. The journey then continues towards Merzouga, with a stop at a panoramic viewpoint to admire a vast oasis of palm trees. We will reach Merzouga in the afternoon, where you will enjoy dinner accompanied by traditional Saharan music, and spend the night in a traditional Kasbah.
Day 7 - Merzouga - Rissani & Kasbahs - Erg Chebbi
After breakfast, we will embark on an insightful visit to the village of Rissani, historically the first capital of the Alaouite dynasty, which continues to rule Morocco today. You will explore the historic Monument of Sijilmassa, a significant center for desert trade, and discover various Kasbahs in the Rissani area, which boasts over 350 Kasbahs. We will also visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Sharif (the founder of the Alaouite dynasty), the Musem of Lfida, and the bustling souk. Lunch will be a traditional Moroccan meal at a local restaurant, featuring Medfouna. After a rest, we will take a 4x4 vehicle towards the desert, with an option to try sandboarding on the dunes. Following mint tea, your guide and camels will be waiting to transport you across the magnificent sandy dunes of Erg Chebbi. You will be captivated by the beauty of the sunset from atop your camel. After approximately 1 hour, you will reach your serene desert camp, where you will spend a magical night in a traditional Berber tent. At your desert shelter, your camels are hobbled, and mint tea is served. After a wonderful dinner under the vast, star-filled sky, you will enjoy overnight accommodation in a Berber Tent.
Day 8 - Merzouga - Full Day
Rise early in the morning to witness the awe-inspiring desert sunrise, walking over the sand dunes to observe the sun emerging. Following this memorable experience, we will take camels back to the hotel for a refreshing shower and breakfast, allowing for a moment of relaxation. Today is dedicated to a full-day 4x4 adventure exploring the diverse facets of the desert, from its sweeping dunes to intriguing black volcanic rock formations. We will pass through small villages, stopping to share mint tea and lunch with a Berber family in their traditional tent, gaining a unique cultural insight. Our journey will also take us along a section of the famous Paris-Dakar rally road. We will reach a cave where you can discover how local people extracted fossils. Another stop will be made to listen to captivating Saharan Music in El Khamlia, a village known for its Gnawa musicians. You will also visit the seasonal lake in Merzouga and a desert oasis. You will have the choice to spend the night either in the comfort of a hotel at the foot of the dunes or return to the enchanting camp in the middle of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Dinner and overnight accommodation are included.
Day 9 - Merzouga - Gorges Todra - Gorge Dades
After a Berber breakfast, you will depart towards the Dades Gorge, embarking on a scenic journey along the rugged "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs." This historic caravan trading route is adorned with turreted sand castles that rise majestically from the landscape. The central region is a truly exciting destination, nestled among rich river valleys, lush palmeries, and burnished mud-brick homes that glow with vibrant color under the clear blue desert sky. We'll travel through the Ziz Valley, passing dramatic escarpments and plunging gorges via Tinghir. We will stop for lunch at a local restaurant in a village. After a refreshing walk in the stunning Todra Gorge, we will continue our journey towards the Dades Gorge. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at a local hotel.
Day 10 - Gorges - Ouarzazate - Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou - Marrakech
After breakfast, you will have an opportunity for a walk to further explore the Dades Gorge before we continue our journey to Ouarzazate. Here, we will conduct a visit to the town, including the impressive Kasbah of Taourirt and the renowned Atlas movie studios—recognized as the largest and most famous in all of Africa. From Ouarzazate, we will head towards the tranquil Fint Oasis, a lush green oasis nearby. Our next significant stop is the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where we will arrive in time for lunch. After, you can explore this famous Kasbah, which has served as a stunning backdrop for numerous films, including "The Gladiator," "Babel," and "Lawrence of Arabia." Subsequently, we continue our journey, passing through the majestic High Atlas Mountains and over the Tizi-n-Tichka pass. This road gracefully climbs from the plains up to 2260 meters above sea level, revealing continuously changing landscapes of picturesque small villages, charming waterfalls, and vibrant mountain colors. We will reach Marrakech in the afternoon, where dinner and overnight accommodation will be at your Riad or Hotel.
Day 11 - Marrakech - Guided Tour
Today, after breakfast, you will embark on a full-day guided tour of Marrakech. Your visit will include: the serene Menara Gardens, with its magnificent pool surrounded by flowers; the iconic Koutoubia Minaret; the historical Saadian Tombs; the Dar Si Said Museum, showcasing the finest display of Berber arts and crafts; and the opulent Bahia Palace. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, after which you will immerse yourself in a captivating walk through the colorful Souks of Marrakech, experiencing their lively atmosphere. The day will conclude with a refreshing sunset drink overlooking the legendary Djemaa El Fna square. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at your Riad or Hotel.
Day 12 - Marrakech - Ourika - Marrakech
Today, we depart from Marrakech towards the Ourika Valley. This beautiful drive takes you to the foot of the Atlas Mountains, where you will discover quaint mud-brick villages clinging to the mountainsides, traditional terraced agriculture, and the refreshing banks of the Ourika River. You will have the unique opportunity to visit a local Berber house, gaining insight into their authentic lifestyle, the simplicity of their equipment, and an appreciation for Berber tradition. You will also have the chance to assist in the traditional preparation of mint tea and enjoy it with a local family. Dinner and overnight stay will be at your hotel or Riad back in Marrakech.
Day 13 - Marrakech - Free Day & Exploration
After breakfast, today offers a well-deserved free day in Marrakech. You will have the car and driver at your disposal, allowing you the flexibility to revisit favorite spots, explore areas not yet seen, indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping, or simply relax and enjoy the amenities of your Riad. This day is tailored to your personal preferences for self-guided exploration or relaxation within this vibrant city.
Day 14 - Marrakech - Essaouira
After breakfast, we depart towards the charming coastal city of Essaouira. Along the way, we will make a fascinating stop to visit a local cooperative dedicated to the production of argan oil, where you can learn about this uniqe Moroccan produce. Afterwards, upon arrival in Essaouira, a relaxed and picturesque town located approximately two hours from Marrakech, we will begin our visit. Essaouira is a UNESCO World Heritage Site—a protected city—and its impressive ramparts and 16th-century walled city offer astonishing views of the Atlantic Ocean. This day trip provides ample time to explore Essaouira important monuments, the old fish markets, and a vibrant seaport. You will also have the chance to observe skilled silver craftsmen and woodcarvers at work. Overnight and dinner will be at your hotel or Riad locally in Essaouira.
Day 15 - Essaouira - Casablanca
In the morning, after a pleasant walk through the charming small town of Essaouira, you will appreciate its unique character. Once the Old Portuguese city of Mogador. Today, the city is gradually flourishing as a hub for artists. Afterwards, we will then take the scenic road towards Casablanca, tracing the beautiful Atlantic coast. Expecting to reach Casablanca in the afternoon, where dinner and overnight accommodation will be at your hotel.
Day 16 - Casablanca - Depart Morocco
After breakfast, your final day in Morocco is dedicated to exploring Casablanca. Your orientation tour will take you through its broad avenues, offering a glimpse into this economical city. You will stroll through the narrow streets of its medina, visit the grand United Nations Square and Place Mohammed V, explore the central market district, and discover the residential district of Anfa. A drive along the Boulevard de la Corniche will showcase its pools and restaurants. The highlight of your Casablanca tour will be visiting the magnificent Hassan II Mosque. Standing as one of the largest and rare mosques open to non-Muslims. Finally, you will be comfortably transferred to the airport for your onward departure, concluding your grand Moroccan adventure.
Included
Excluded
Code: TBM2WDT1
Morocco Tour Inquiry
Please provide your details and tour preferences. We will respond promptly with personalized information.
