This Morocco tour takes us to a land that has been known to inspire and astound.
When gazing up at the Corinthian columns of Meknes we can easily imagine these stone structures being responsible for holding up the blue sky above the ancient city.
The closest we can ever come to reliving times of such notoriety is by combining the country's remnants of ancient civilizations with a little imagination.
While in Casablanca, it's easy to visualize the 30, 000 workers and craftsmen busy constructing the Hassan II Mosque as we look above our heads at the awe-inspiring ceilings.
It's hard not to be spellbound by the magic when we watch the dunes of the Merzouga change colour during sunset.
Thinking of the Middle Atlas region as somewhere we have been before is a forgivable misconception because the land contains so many details that make up the our idea of perfection.
Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here.
Your Travel and Accommodation Arranged For You
Tips Included for Driver, Restaurant Staff, Local Guides
Authentic Local Experiences With Lots Of Inclusions.
Select a date below to reserve your spot:
Optional Single Supplement: $620 USD (number of singles limited).
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Day 1 Arrive in Casablanca
Today we arrive in Morocco and transfer to our central Casablanca hotel.
Casablanca is believed to have been a Phoenician settlement and later a Berber town. It was conquered by the Almohads in 1188, and developed by Sutlan Abd el-Moumen as a port. In the 14th century the Portuguese established a settlement here on the site of the village of Anfa, but when it became a pirates' base in 1468, they destroyed it, repeating this act in 1515. The Portuguese reestablished themselves in the late 16th century, renaming the town Casa Blanca, staying until 1755, when an earthquake destroyed the settlement.
Overnight in Casablanca.
Included Meal(s): Dinner
Day 2 Casablanca - Rabat - Fes
This morning we visit the Hassan II Mosque, a glorious structure believed to be only second in size to Islam's most important site, Mecca in Saudi Arabia. The mosque was inaugurated in August 1993, the culmination of five years of intensive labour by over 30,000 workers and craftsmen. Non-Muslims may enter as part of a guided tour.
From Casablanca we travel to Rabat, Morocco's third oldest Imperial City and modern capital. Among the sites in Rabat that we will visit are the the Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum. Leaving Rabat we travel to Fes arriving in time for dinner.
The historic city of Fes lies in the Oued Sebou basin, astride the traditional trade route from the Sahara to the Mediterranean and the path from Algeria and the Islamic heartland beyond. For centuries the dominant axis within Morocco was of Fes and Marrakech, two cities linked by their immense power and rivalry. Fes is still seen as the spiritual and cultural capital and holds an enduring fascination for visitors with one of the largest historic medinas full of monuments reflecting the different periods of Morocco's imperial past.
Overnight in Fes.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
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Day 3 Fes - Volubilis - Meknes - Fes
This morning we visit the impressive site of Volubilis, the best-preserved Roman site in Morocco. Situated on the ledge of a long plateau, the dramatic site was once one of the Roman Empire's most remote outposts. Our local guide here will take you on tour of the site; we also allow free time for photographs.
We also see the sacred town of Moulay Idriss (photo stop only). Moulay Idriss is a dramatic sight, houses and mosques piled up around two rock outcrops, with the 'zaouia,' or sanctuary, in between.
We continue to Meknes, Morocco's youngest Imperial City. We feature the Bab El Mansour gate dating from 1752, complete with its Corinthian columns. The city was built by a massive army of slaves, both Moroccan and Christian, and the Sultan was in particular famed for his barbaric treatment of these people, supposedly interring them in the walls. The city contained within it all that was necessary for such a large population and military machine, with store houses, stables, armouries, exercise areas, gardens and ponds.
We return to Fes.
Overnight in Fes.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 4 Fes: City Tour
Today we will have a walking tour of Fes El Bali, the extraordinary medieval walled city. Once inside the gates of this great spectacle, you will see an entirely different view of life in Morocco. In contrast to the well-planned Ville Nouvelle, the old city is a labyrinth of alleys and lanes lined with shops, mosques, homes and schools. In 1980 UNESCO designated the medina a World Heritage Site.
Our guide will take us to the medina to view the market shops, or suqs. Everything from food to clothing can be purchased. We will see the famous dying works with the brightly coloured cloth hanging to dry. A visit to the Royal Palace, several mosques, theological schools, and shops where we can see craftsmen tailoring their work will round out the day's tour. Today's walk is an amazing look into the life of the Moroccan city dweller where little has changed over the centuries.
Overnight in Fes.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 5 Fes - Erfoud
We have a morning departure for the Middle Atlas, a region of folded mountains and high, windswept plateaux, vast forests of cork oak and cedar, and lakes and streams full of trout. This is Berber country and sheep and goat-rearing is the main occupation of these resilient, friendly people. We drive via the Berber villages of Imouzzer du Kandar; Ifrane, a fairy-tale town unlike any other in Morocco with white-walled French-style villas with steep red roofs and gables. As the altitude increases, we come to a bare, arid, sandy plateau with another range of mountains in the distance.
We continue to Erfoud, an attractive town -- red and sandy, exuding desert ambiance.
Overnight in Erfoud.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 6 Rissani & Merzouga Dunes
This morning we journey to the historic 8th century caravan town of Rissani to visit the Tafilalt Oasis. The first capital of the Tafilalt and the last stop on the caravan routes south, Rissani has a special place in Moroccan lore. The ruling Alaouite dynasty (from whom Morocco's current ruler, Mohammed VI, is a descendant) launched its bid for power here before triumphing finally in Fes and Marrakech. Today, a quarter of Rissani's population still inhabits a large 17th-century ksar in the center of town.
Later this afternoon we drive by 4WD vehicle to Merzouga to witness sunset over the dunes. We have time to explore the dunes on foot, or by camel! This is a magical Saharan landscape, with huge drifting expanses of sand dunes reaching heights of more than 45 metres (148 ft). Their colour shifts from pink to gold to red to white depending on the time of day.
Overnight at Merzouga.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 7 Merzouga - Todra Gorge - Ouarzazate
This morning, we embark on a journey to the awe-inspiring Todra Gorge, a natural wonder nestled in the heart of Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains. This dramatic geological formation is a deep, narrow canyon carved by the relentless force of the Todra River over millennia. Towering limestone cliffs, some reaching heights of over 300 meters (984 feet), rise majestically on either side, creating a breathtaking spectacle. At its narrowest point, the gorge constricts to a mere 20 meters (66 feet), offering a truly humbling experience as you walk along the canyon floor, dwarfed by the sheer scale of the surrounding rock formations.
Later, we'll wind our way through the dramatic southern slopes of the High Atlas Mountains. The road will take us past stunning vistas of rugged peaks, fertile valleys, and traditional Berber villages clinging to the mountainside. En route, we'll make a captivating stop at the Kasbah Skoura, a magnificent fortified city of clay and adobe. This ancient oasis town, with its labyrinthine alleyways and grand kasbahs, offers a glimpse into Morocco's rich history and cultural heritage. Continuing our journey, we'll arrive in the vibrant city of Ouarzazate, often referred to as the "Hollywood of Africa." This bustling desert metropolis is renowned for its stunning desert landscapes and its role as a backdrop for numerous international film productions..
Overnight in Ouarzazate.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 8 Ouarzazate - Ait Benhaddou - Taroudannt
Our first visit this morning is the Kasbah Taourirt, once belonging to the famous El Glaoui governors. We then proceed to the kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, one of the most spectacular sites in Morocco. The site, which has received extensive renovations from UNESCO, towers high above the El Mellah River and has some of the most highly decorated dark red pise walls. We arrive in the new village on the west bank of the river and proceed to cross the river, usually with an entourage of local children.
After a brief tour and time for independent exploration, we continue our journey toward Taroudannt through the Souss Valley. The area is rich in agriculture, producing oranges, bananas, tomatoes and other crops.
Overnight in Taroudannt.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 9 Taroudannt: City Tour
As the capital of the Souss Valley, Taroudannt has traditionally been an important staging post in the Trans-Sahara caravan routes. The old city is surrounded by nearly 5 km (3 miles) of rich red-ochre walls. The walls, considered by many to be the best preserved in Morocco, give the town an elegant feeling. This morning we have a caleche (horse-drawn carriage) ride around the walls of the city before beginning our walking tour of the suq area. The town is famous for its two suqs: the Souk Arabe and the Marche Berbere. The former specialises in handicrafts and jewelry; the later is famous for house-wares, spices, wooden objects and furniture.
This afternoon is free for you to explore on your own. You may wish to spend more time in the bazaar or take a walk around the impressive city walls and bastions.
Overnight in Taroudannt.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 10 Taroudannt - Taghazout - Essaouira
This morning we travel toward the Atlantic coast and make a (possibly lunch) stop in the small coastal town of Taghazout, a traditional fishing village where blue boats line the beach. Each morning the fishermen make their way out to the ocean to catch fish that is sold fresh later that day; the colour scheme of blue and white boats is echoed by the houses in the village. Taghazout is a popular place for surfers and, despite extensive resort development, still has a laid-back vibe.
From here we travel northward to the fortified, whitewashed fishing village of Essaouira. Once a pirate community, the town is located on a rock promontory overlooking the sometimes raging Atlantic Ocean. There was a small Phonenician settlement at Essaouira, previously called Magdoura or Mogador, a corruption of the Berber word 'Amegdul,' meaning ‘well-protected'. The Romans were interested in the purple dye produced from shellfish which they used to colour the robes of the rich.
Orson Welles stayed here for some time, filming part of Othello at the Skala. In the 1960s Essaouira had a brief reputation as a 'happening place', which attracted hippies, notably the rock star, Jimi Hendrix. Before dinner you may want to stroll along the beach and/or visit the colourful fish market.
Overnight in Essaouira.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 11 Essaouira: Walking Tour
Essaouira is one of Morocco's most charming towns. Old Mogador was occupied in the 15th century by the Portuguese who built the fortifications around the harbour. These impressive ramparts still give the city a fortified look.
Today you will be guided on a leisurely walking tour of this coastal city. The port area offers an interesting look into the fishery industry of Morocco, and the jewellery suq offers some of the best silver items available. You may also wish to visit one of the many art galleries or visit the Musee Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah which features excellent displays of marquetry and handicrafts. Be sure to visit the Marchee d'espices (spice market) where you can purchase your cooking spices or pick up some "cures" for whatever ails you.
Overnight in Essaouira.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 12 Essaouira - Marrakech
Today we travel from Essaouira inland to Marrakech. As we approach Marrakech, the scenery becomes flatter and greener, as the city is the centre of a large palmerie oasis. You will notice an abundance of the pink mud-brick buildings amid this tree-filled city. With it's unique character and charm, Marrakech lures visitors with a hospitable climate and superb location.
This evening we visit the famous Djemma el-Fna in the centre of the city. The Djemma el-Fna is like nowhere else in North Africa. This "Assembly of the Dead," offers a spectacle that is a must-see when visiting Morocco. In the busy square you will witness a carnival of musicians, snake charmers, acrobats, story-tellers, witch doctors, dentists, clowns, monkey's and the like. The enduring smells of the Djemma's food stalls, piled high with platters of specialty cuisine, are well worth a visit just for the experience.
Overnight in Marrakech.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 13 Marrakech: City Tour
Marrakech is one of the world's most enchanting cities. The city is situated on a lush palmerie and city dates to the Almoravid Dynasty circa 1670. Founded by Youssef bin Tachfine, the city became the dominant centre of Morocco. Our morning walking tour takes us to the Koutoubia, nearly 70 m (230 feet) high and emulating the classic Moroccan design. We will also take a short walk through the Mellah or Jewish quarter.
This afternoon we allow free time to visit one of the many gardens -- the Majorelle Garden is recommended. Within the gardens is an excellent museum displaying a collection of Berber objects originating from diverse regions of Morocco, from the Rif to the Sahara.
Overnight in Marrakech.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 14 Departure
Departure from Marrakech.
BON VOYAGE!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast
Inclusions
Breakfast and dinner (hotels & local restaurants) daily. All transport, accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary. Gratuities for local guides, drivers, restaurant staff, porters. Airport transfers for land & air customers and for early arriving/late departing land & air customers who book their extra hotel nights through us.
Exclusions
International airfare to/from the tour. Tour Leader gratuities, lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), international air taxes (if applicable), excursions referenced as 'optional'. Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on optional meal costs and shopping.
Seasonality and Weather
This tour is offered in winter, spring and fall, the most popular of which are spring and fall when temperatures are relatively mild. Our Christmas departures will experience chilly nights/mornings (possibly frosty) though sunny days can be quite warm in some locations.
For a couple of years, starting from 2020, our spring dates are a little later in the season in order to avoid widespread closures or reduced hours for important sites during the holy month of Ramadan. For these times, late May/early June, we will likely experience some heat at inland locations.
Transport and Travel Conditions
Land transport throughout by private air-conditioned motor coach, 24-36 seats depending on ultimate group size (see 'group size'). Though we will have some full bus days, road travel is not particularly arduous as there are plenty of stops of interest. Roads are in good condition though winding on some stretches.
Our difficulty "Level 2" refers to the overall ambitious nature of our program, some long road journeys, some early starts, and time spent at remote locations. Depending on season, you may also experience some heat at some locales. Much of our sightseeing is conducted on foot, with walking tours of towns & cities, medinas, archaeological sites, and museums. You must be prepared to be on your feet for several hours at a time, walking at a leisurely pace. We will also have short walks to dinner. Most hotels have elevators; however, a couple of our smaller 3-4 story properties (ie Essaouira) may not. You will also encounter stairs quite frequently during our sightseeing visits.
Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.
Activity Level: 2
These are particularly busy tours that feature a lot of moving around, sometimes by train and short journeys on local transport. Walking tours of towns and cities are leisurely but you should be prepared to be on your feet for several hours. Some of our cultural trips that occur at high altitude and/or require greater independence with baggage handling (at hotels, airports, train stations) also fall into this category.
To learn more about the Activity levels, please visit our tour styles page.
Accommodation
Well-located, air-conditioned, mid-range hotels (3-4 star) throughout. All hotels have en suite bath, though some may have shower only. Porter service is usually available (see 'inclusions') though you should be independent with your luggage. Single rooms are limited and likely smaller than twins.
Staff and Support
Tour Leader throughout, driver, local step-on guides in various locales.
Group Size
Maximum 18 plus Tour Leader
Tour Extensions
This tour is part of a series that can be upgraded to make for a longer trip. For more options, please refer to tour code/s:
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
Separated only by the Strait of Gibraltar, Spain and Morocco tours venture to two countries worlds apart but intricately woven together through history.
While both are incredibly scenic, each has a unique flavour and perspective to present. Journey from Madrid to Casablanca to taste, smell, and experience the rich culture of both countries.
When the Moors invaded the Iberian peninsula in 711 AD, their presence would leave a lasting impression on the Spanish countryside until present day. In their wake they left a myriad of architectural wonders.
Our Spain and Morocco tours visit their masterpiece of the Alhambra in Granada, a palace complex set amongst the backdrop of the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, the highest mountains of Spain.
We will wander the cobblestone alleyways of this medieval city, spy the Islamic decor and landscaped gardens found within this 13th century fortress with extraordinarily ornate 'lace in stone' details found within the palace. Without a doubt, this monument is without rival in Europe.
Beyond the Alhambra are many more impressive Moorish sites. In Cordoba, Spain and Morocco tours visit the Great Mosque of Cordoba, one of the oldest structures still standing which was built by the descendants of the exiled Umayyads.
The Alcazar Palace in Sevilla, is a 14th century palace set in the picture-perfect image of Andalucia, complete with orange groves and flower-filled patios.
It was here where King Ferdinand II and Queen Isabella once resided and finally conquered the Moors, freeing their lands from 700 years of Moorish rule. The Catholic Monarchs would go on to create papal decree for the Spanish Empire that would colonize the Americas and claim them for Spain.
It is after Sevilla that the Spain and Morocco tours jump the continent, leaving behind Europe and venturing to Africa.
From the Strait of Gibraltar the first entrance into Morocco showcases a blend of North Africa, Spain, Portugal and France. But also a country drenched in exotic mystery, interesting history, beautiful vistas, and friendly people.
It is by exploring the imperial cities of Morocco (Fez, Meknes and Rabat) that one begins to understand the nuances of this ancient land.
Wander the labyrinth of alleys and lanes lined with shops, mosques, homes and schools in the historic cities that were once the capitals.
The souks and squares in each town offer a chance to see locals wares such as carpets and pottery, two artistic pursuits for which the Moroccans are known for. The smell of mint tea never seems far away and the cities themselves seem to have changed little over the centuries.
Away from the imperial cities, it is the mountainous backbones of the High and Middle Atlas mountains that leave even intrepid travellers in awe. Folded mountains and high, windswept plateaux, vast forests of cork oak and cedar, and lakes and streams full of trout are the qualities that make up this Berber country, with sheep and goat-rearing as the main occupation.
Spain and Morocco tours offer the chance to stand on the shifting sands of Mergouza, sand dunes reaching heights of more than 45 metres (148 ft) with their colour shifting from pink to gold to red to white depending on the time of day.
From Madrid to Casablanca, Spain and Morocco tours are for the curious. For those who love a mix of metropolitan and traditional, historic and artistic, spicy yet sweet. For those looking to find UNESCO world heritage sites and memorable landscapes around every corner.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
One look at the mountains framing the sky or the lakes that mirror any beauty that happens to be above the calm surface and we will come to understand how it feels to be in a utopia. On our Spain & Morocco tour you can explore utopia.
The elegant buildings throughout the city seem as intricately placed as the cobblestones that line the streets.
Take a simple stroll along alleyways lined with balconies supporting flowerbeds overflowing with colour and we will learn to use the word 'quaint' a little more mindfully.
Massive monasteries and cathedrals known to humble any onlooker, not only stand on the northern shores of the Mediterranean, but they are also south of the waters of Morocco.
The continuous wonderment will not disappoint, especially when we witness how the majesty of the Roman Empire endures through its many structures left behind.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
Both Spain and Morocco serve as perfect examples as to why flying to the other side of the world could be one of the most important life decisions made by anyone.
The insight gained on our Spain & Morocco tour into a distant history cannot be as easily achieved through reading history books or looking at photos in glossy travel magazines; it's a walk through a monastery in Madrid or it's meeting Moroccans who live among the rubble of the Roman Empire that really put things into perspective.
Just when we think we've absorbed all there is to absorb in these two countries, we will be faced with a natural environment that is known to overwhelm.
The sun moving along the lush forests just outside of Fes, Morocco, or the snow-capped mountains of Spain emanating a sense of perfection from top to bottom justifies those who admit, now and again, that sometimes the grass is greener on the other side.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
This extensive Spain and Morocco tour provides enough time for those who are fond of exploration to turn over as many stones as possible in the course of 31 days.
This is a perfect setting because every corner to be turned yields the chance for fresh astonishment.
The artistry visible in the architecture in both countries seems to be subject to the magnetism of the topography.
Every nuance of the land will make for the longest memory, from the sprawling lakes reflecting the mountaintops, to the vast horizon that seems to serve as perfect foundation for a setting sun.
Each sight will seem like an element of perfection that is unique to this particular time and place.
Behind every immaculate site is a story and the histories of Spain and Morocco seem fitting to the countries' physical variations.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 3 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
Our Portugal, Spain and Morocco tour is one solid 32-day adventure that will leave us with a stronger desire to expose ourselves to more worldly experiences.
Once in Portugal, we will have the chance to see the country's collection of Gothic and Renaissance churches.
They seem to coincide with the country's natural beauty so well that it seems as if the structures were extensions of the land itself.
Glancing upon the antiquity in the halls of the Muse Archaelogique in Casablanca in Morocco can be compared to looking over a missing chapter in our history books.
The most important lesson that this journey can impart is, "discovery does not end here."
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 3 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
If we are to conjure up images of Portugal, we might picture white-stone balconies supporting various arrangements of flower pots.
When thinking about Spain, we might imagine towering cathedrals.
Morocco brings to mind large dunes of glowing-orange sand that slowly fades as the sun sinks behind them.
This 37-day Portugal, Spain & Morocco Tour is the perfect opportunity for those who are slightly curious to take the chance in experiencing these details first-hand rather than relying on flights of the imagination that could never do these countries justice.
Come see the streets of Lisbon, Portugal, the Gothic Cathedral of Segovia, Spain, and the majesty of the sand dunes in Merzouga, Morocco, and bring new definition to what you imagine these stellar destinations to be about.
Regions visited: North Africa
Countries visited: Morocco
*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.
The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.
Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud offers 200 spacious rooms decorated with regional materials, as well as 8 bungalows. It combines tradition with modern amenities, where installations are adapted to the stringiest standards.
4-minute walk from the beach. Located in the Kasbah neighborhood in Essaouira, 14.5 km from Essaouira, Palais Des Remparts features a sun terrace and views of the sea. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar.
The property was built in 2014 and offers a modern design with practically brand new facilities. We currently have 114 spacious rooms (107 double rooms and 7 suites).
Tourcode: MO5
