Day 1: Casablanca Arrival and City Highlights
Welcome to Casablanca!
Arrive in Casablanca, Morocco’s bustling economic capital and be transferred to your hotel. After checking into the Oum Palace Hotel & Spa, you can enjoy an optional half-day excursion to explore the city’s highlights. Visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, set on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a stroll along the vibrant Corniche, dotted with cafes and restaurants, or explore the Art Deco architecture in the city center. Spend the evening at leisure before settling in for your first night.
Day 2: Journey Through Tangier to Blue Chefchaouen
Begin your journey with a scenic drive north to Tangier, where you’ll enjoy a sightseeing stop. Discover the historic Kasbah, Cape Spartel with its stunning views of the Mediterranean, and perhaps the mythical Hercules Cave. Continue to Chefchaouen, the enchanting "Blue Pearl" of Morocco. Upon arrival, check into Dar Ba Sidi & Spa, a charming boutique property offering breathtaking views. In the evening, opt for a shuttle into Chefchaouen’s old town to soak in the magical ambiance of its blue-washed streets.
Today you will visit: Rabat including Hassan II Tower, Mausoleum of Mohammed V & Oudayas Kasbah.
Chefchaouen:
Hidden high up in the Rif Mountains of northeastern Morocco, Chefchaouen is a relatively large historical town known for the striking, variously hued blue-washed buildings of its picturesque Medina. Visitors can look forward to wandering along narrow, cobblestone streets lined with leather and weaving workshops and an array of historical monuments. Must-see attractions include the town's exquisite waterfall; the ruins of an old mosque on a hill behind it; and the shady main square of Uta el Hammam, which is home to the red-walled casbah - a 15th-century fortress and dungeon displaying ethnographic and art exhibits. This charming town also serves as an ideal base for travellers eager to explore the traditional villages and dramatic mountains of the scenic surrounding area.
Breakfast included.
Day 3: Solar Eclipse and Chefchaouen Exploration
Solar Eclipse Observation at Dar Ba Sidi: Start your day with a unique and unforgettable experience: observing the solar eclipse from the serene setting of Dar Ba Sidi. This once-in-a-lifetime event is complemented by a delightful lunch at the property.
Enjoy a traditional lunch at your hotel Dar Ba Sidi, featuring local Moroccan dishes served in a relaxed and authentic setting near the eclipse viewing area.
In the late afternoon, take a guided walking excursion into Chefchaouen to explore its vibrant streets, artisan shops, and cultural landmarks such as the Kasbah Museum and Plaza Uta el-Hammam.
Breakfast and Lunch included.
Day 4: Volubilis Ruins and Arrival in Fes
Depart Chefchaouen and journey through picturesque countryside to the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the remarkably preserved ruins, including grand arches, intricate mosaics, and temples that offer a glimpse into Morocco’s Roman past. Continue your journey to Fes, the cultural heart of Morocco, and check into Barcelo Fes Medina. Spend the evening relaxing or take a short stroll to experience the lively atmosphere of the city.
Today you will visit:
- Volubilis Roman Ruins
- Meknes including Bab Mansour & Lahdim Square
Fes:
Morocco’s second-largest city and the country’s former capital, Fes (Fez) is an exotic mix of Arabic architecture, ancient alleyways calls to prayer and colourful markets; all mixed in with a good dose of modern culture. Home to the venerated Karaouine Mosque, which dates back to 859 AD and incorporates an Islamic university, and to the country’s most hallowed shrine, the Zaouia Moulay Idriss II; Fes is regarded as the spiritual seat of Morocco. Music lovers should try to synchronise their trips with the annual Festival of Sacred Music, one of the highlights of the city’s cultural calendar showcasing diverse performances of spiritual and religious music; while those with a penchant for shopping can browse the mesmerizing colourful markets selling an exquisite array of silver, leather and other handicrafts up for grabs.
Breakfast included.
Day 5: Fes Exploration and Culinary Experiences
Today is dedicated to exploring Fes at your own pace or opting for guided tours. Discover the UNESCO-listed medina, one of the world’s largest car-free urban zones, and visit key sites like the Al-Qarawiyyin University, the BouInania Madrasa, and the vibrant tanneries. Alternatively, unwind at your hotel or enjoy a hammam experience. The evening is yours to explore the city’s culinary delights.
Today you will have a:
- Full-day guided city tour of Fes
- Visit of the Medina, Bou Inania Madrasa, Nejjarine Fountain & Tanneries
Optional Cooking Class with Lunch in Fes (extra USD 85 per person to be pre-paid now and subject to availability.):
Experience the essence of Moroccan cuisine with a hands-on cooking class in Fes. Guided by a local chef in a traditional kitchen, you'll learn to prepare iconic dishes such as tagines, pastilla, and Moroccan salads using authentic techniques. After the session, enjoy the delicious meal you've prepared, paired with traditional Moroccan bread, mint tea, and a sweet dessert. Includes: Cooking session with a local chef, lunch with the dishes prepared, mint tea and dessert.
Breakfast included.
Day 6: Scenic Drive to Erfoud and Sahara Gateway
Embark on a scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing cedar forests and quaint Berber villages. Along the way, stop to admire the region’s natural beauty, including the playful Barbary macaques near Ifrane. Arrive in Erfoud, a gateway to the Sahara Desert, where you’ll check into the charming Chergui Hotel Spend the evening savoring a delicious dinner and preparing for the desert adventures ahead.
Today's journey includes a scenic drive through Ifrane, Azrou & Midelt.
Erfoud:
Situated at the foot of the Grand Atlas Mountains in southern Morocco, the French-built frontier town of Erfoud serves as the gateway to the magnificent Sahara Desert. With its low, dusty, red buildings occupied by businesses, banks, supermarkets, restaurants, and mechanics, Erfoud makes a convenient stopover on the journey heading south to Merzouga from Fez or Meknes. Must-see attractions include the main gate into the medina, designed in the typical Almohad style; the vibrant souk, with its array of goods such as souvenirs and fresh produce; and the surrounding Saharan Dunes, which can be explored by 4x4 or camel.
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Day 7: Desert Adventures in Erfoud and stargazing in Merzouga
Spend the day discovering the desert landscapes surrounding Erfoud. Optional excursions can be arranged including a 4x4 into Erg Chebbi Dunes with Camel Trekking and lunch. This excursion is extra USD 180 per person based on 2 people. Single supplement applies for solo travellers, please ask us. This tour is best to be pre-paid and is subject to availability.
In the late afternoon, you will be transferred from Erfoud to the Andromeda Desert Astro Camp located in the heart of the desert landscapes. Upon arrival, welcome tea and Moroccan biscuits will be served while clients enjoy the peaceful surroundings, relax by the pool or take a short walk through the oasis before sunset. After sunset, a traditional dinner will be served at the camp, usually featuring grilled specialties, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request. The evening continues with a fascinating astronomy and desert culture presentation
covering caravan routes, salt trade history, celestial navigation, Berber mythology and desert beliefs connected to the stars. Once all lights are switched off, guests will enjoy a guided naked-eye observation of the Sahara sky followed by telescope observation using professional equipment to discover visible planets, stars and constellations.
The experience concludes around the campfire before returning to Erfoud around midnight.
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Day 8: Scenic Drive to Ouarzazate and Film Studios
Begin the day with a scenic journey from Erfoud toward Ouarzazate, travelling along one of southern Morocco’s most beautiful routes. Drive through the spectacular landscapes of the Dades Valley, often referred to as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” where ancient mud-brick fortresses and dramatic rock formations line the road. Continue through the Skoura oasis, dotted with palm groves and historic kasbahs, before arriving in Ouarzazate, known as Morocco’s film capital. If timing allows, visit the famous Atlas Film Studios and the impressive Taourirt Kasbah, once a residence of the Glaoui family. Check in at Hotel Karam Palace. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Today you will have a visit of Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah.
Ouarzazate:
At the intersection of the Dades and Draa Valley lies the relaxed Moroccan town of Ouarzazate. Surrounded by some unbelievably picturesque terrain, the town is characterised by the red-glowing kasbah at Ait Ben Haddou, the snowcapped High Atlas Mountains, and the spectacular Sahara Desert with its rolling dunes, vast canyons and deep gorges. These exotic backdrops have served as the location for a slew of Hollywood movies which have turned this once sleepy town into Morocco’s version of Hollywood. The town is a popular stopover point for tourists on their way to the Sahara. Its palm-fringed boulevards are lined with grand palaces, bustling souks, old adobe buildings and film studios. It's an ideal location for hanging out at one of the many charming cafés, sampling some delicious local Moroccan cuisine and perhaps even spotting one of the many celebrities who frequent this fascinating North African city.
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Day 9: Journey to Marrakesh via Atlas Mountains
After breakfast, visit the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a striking example of southern Moroccan architecture and a popular film location. Continue your journey over the High Atlas Mountains, enjoying breathtaking views along the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, before arriving in Marrakech. Check into Kenzi Rose Garden and spend the evening at leisure in the vibrant “Red City.”
Marrakesh:
Situated to the north of the foothills of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains and fringing the famed Sahara, the bustling UNESCO-listed city of Marrakesh is an enchanting travel destination. Marrakesh is also home to the largest traditional Berber market in Morocco and one of the busiest squares in the world, known as Djemaa el Fna. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this square in the evening as it transforms into an enormous, open-air restaurant, and browse through exquisite carpets, spices and a myriad of other items. Art, design and architecture enthusiasts flock to the city to see its incredible artisan achievements, so beautifully expressed at the glorious Bahia Palace, Dar Si Said and Saadian Tombs, as well as at several museums. The other-worldly Jardin Majorelle is also unmissable.
Breakfast included.
Day 10: Free Day in Marrakesh
Today is a free day for you to explore the area, some suggestions for your day (extra cost): You could take a morning hot air balloon trip over the desert to see it from the air followed by a Berber brunch. Experience a 'Food Tasting Tour', you'll eat like a local, learn fascinating stories and deepen your knowledge of Moroccan cultural traditions. Explore the city of Marrakech on a sidecar tour. Hop aboard the tailor-made vehicle and get a look at local life in the city. Try a hammam which is a traditional Moroccan bathing ritual. It varies from place to place but the general process is that you soak in a pool or steam room, you are then exfoliated before being rinsed and then massaged. Have a special Moroccon dinner accompanied by Berber parades, musicians, acrobats and oriental dancers.
Breakfast included.
Day 11: Depart Marrakesh
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Marrakech. You will be transferred to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of your journey through Morocco and the remarkable eclipse experience.
Breakfast included.
