Welcome to Morocco! Your Magical Morocco Immersion begins in Rabat, where your adventure kicks off at the hotel (details provided upon booking). You may arrive at any time, as today is a leisurely day to recover from your travels and prepare for the unforgettable journey ahead. For those arriving before 2 PM, an excursion will take you to some of Rabat’s most important monuments. In the evening, meet your fellow travelers in the lobby at 6:45 PM before heading to a welcome dinner—an opportunity to connect, ask questions, and set the stage for your enchanting Moroccan experience!

Airport transfers can be arranged by request and are complementary from Casablanca. Transfers from airport in Marrakech can be arranged for an additional fee.

Overnight: Rabat

This morning, after breakfast, your Magical Morocco Immersion continues with a tour of Rabat, the nation’s capital. You’ll visit iconic sites such as Hassan Tower, the Mohammed V Mausoleum, and the Kasbah of the Udayas. After your tour, the journey takes you to the mesmerizing Blue City of Chefchaouen. Arriving by mid-afternoon, you’ll have time to explore this spellbinding small city before settling into your riad for a restful evening.

Overnight: Chefchaouen

Today, you will have the whole day free to explore this magical city and discover why it is called Morocco’s Blue Pearl. Optionally, you can venture to the nearby Akchour River for a hike to the breathtaking Cascade d’Akchour waterfall. The hike to the big waterfall is a somewhat challenging 10-mile round trip, but with several smaller waterfalls along the way, you can do as much or as little of the trail as you’d like. If you choose to hike, you’ll return to Chefchaouen by early afternoon and have the rest of the evening free to explore on your own.

Overnight: Chefchaouen

After breakfast, your Magical Morocco Immersion continues as you depart Chefchaouen and journey south toward Fes. Along the way, you’ll stop to explore the ruins of the ancient Roman outpost of Volubilis. Before the Romans arrived, this site was the Amazigh city of Oulili (pronounced wa-lee-lee), dating back to the 3rd century B.C. Though significantly damaged by an 18th-century earthquake—and later altered by Moulay Ismail’s architects, who repurposed its stones to construct Meknes’ gates—it remains, according to UNESCO, ‘an exceptionally well-preserved example of a large Roman colonial town on the fringes of the Empire.’ The city was reclaimed by local Amazigh tribes around 235 AD, and nearby, in the 8th century, Idriss I founded the first dynasty of the Kingdom of Morocco.

Following your guided tour of Volubilis, your Enchanting Moroccan Journey takes you to the lesser-known imperial city of Meknes. You’ll enter the old medina through the grand Bab Mansour gate, which incorporates marble pillars taken from Volubilis. Inside, you’ll visit the tomb of Sultan Moulay Ismail, the eccentric ruler under whom Meknes briefly became Morocco’s capital (1672–1727). Next, you’ll explore the impressive Agdal reservoir and Heri es-Souani, a vast former granary and stable that once housed 12,000 horses, standing as a testament to the city’s past grandeur.

After immersing yourself in Meknes’ rich history, a short drive brings you to Fes, where you’ll settle in for the night. Dinner will be served at your riad, offering the perfect opportunity to unwind and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Important Note: The majority of the monuments in Meknes are currently under extensive restoration for the foreseeable future, so the tour here may be skipped or very limited.

Overnight: Fes

Today, after breakfast, your local guide will meet you at your riad for another day of your Magical Morocco Immersion. Your guided tour of Fes begins at the Royal Palace, followed by a walk through the historic Mellah (Jewish Quarter). From there, you’ll ascend to one of the Borj (towers) to take in a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire medina, a mesmerizing maze of history and culture.

Next, your Enchanting Moroccan Journey takes you to a mosaic house, where you’ll witness firsthand the traditional pottery techniques of Fassi artisans. From molding the clay to assembling intricate mosaics, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Morocco’s rich craftsmanship.

The adventure continues as you dive into the heart of Fes’ ancient medina, where time seems to stand still. Wandering through its labyrinthine streets, you’ll explore bustling artisan quarters—including the world-famous tanneries—and visit significant historical landmarks, such as the tomb of Idriss II and Al-Qarawiyyin University, the oldest continually operating university in the world.

Your guided tour concludes after lunch, leaving you with the rest of the afternoon and evening to further immerse yourself in the wonders of Fes at your own pace. Don’t worry if you get lost—losing yourself in the magic of this ancient city is all part of the experience!

Overnight: Fes

Today, after breakfast, your Magical Morocco Immersion continues as you journey toward the desert. Your first stop will be in the Alpine-like city of Ifrane, often called ‘Little Switzerland.’ This charming garden city feels unlike anywhere else in Morocco, with its European-style architecture, crisp mountain air, and cozy cafés serving delicious desserts and coffee.

After a brief stop, your Enchanting Moroccan Journey takes you deeper into the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Azrou and the largest cedar forest in Africa—home to the playful Atlas Monkeys (also known as Barbary Apes). These cheeky little creatures may expect a toll in peanuts before allowing you to continue your adventure!

As you cross the high plains between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, you’ll arrive at your accommodations for the night. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with traditional Moroccan tea before stretching your legs with a visit to the nearby ecological park. Later, enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner at your accommodations—where, if you’re in the mood, you might even stumble upon a lively gathering at the bar!

Overnight: Midelt

After breakfast, your Magical Morocco Immersion continues as you journey towards Merzouga and the vast sands of the Sahara Desert, specifically Erg Chebbi. You’ll arrive with enough time to explore this awe-inspiring desert region and unwind after the day’s travel.

As sunset approaches, you’ll mount your camel and embark on a trek through the golden dunes, heading towards your Berber camp for the night. There, you’ll witness the desert’s stunning transformation as the sun dips below the horizon and the stars begin to sparkle above.

Dinner will be served around the campfire, accompanied by traditional music, creating the perfect ambiance to relax and gaze at the celestial display. When you’re ready, retire to your cozy tent—or, for a truly unforgettable experience, sleep under the stars and let the magic of the Sahara surround you.

Overnight: Merzouga

This morning, you’ll want to rise early to experience the Magical Morocco Immersion as the sun rises over the endless dunes. After witnessing the breathtaking sunrise, breakfast will be served at camp. You’ll then have time to shower and prepare for your day ahead before taking one last camel trek back to the edge of the dunes. From there, you’ll transfer to your more conventional transportation for the next leg of your journey.

Your adventure continues to the awe-inspiring Dades Gorge. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to search for ancient fossils and visit the historic irrigation system that once brought water to the desert from the distant Saghro Mountains.

Next, you’ll stop at the oasis town of Tinghir, where you’ll enjoy a guided walk through the palmeraie and Mellah (the old Jewish quarter). Afterward, you’ll explore the nearby Todgha Gorge, walking through the most striking section of the canyon.

Finally, you’ll head to the beautiful Dades Valley and settle into your accommodations for the night, where dinner will be served and you can reflect on the day’s incredible experiences.

Overnight: Boumalne Dades

This morning, after breakfast, you’ll embark on a short drive to the next valley over, to the heart of the enchanting Valley of Roses. Along the way, you’ll stop to visit a local market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the area. Next, you’ll visit the home of a local family, where you’ll have the option to help prepare a traditional lunch—or simply relax before joining the family for a delightful couscous meal.

After lunch and a little downtime, you’ll have the chance to explore more of the Valley, whether by car or on foot, taking in the breathtaking scenery. As the day draws to a close, you’ll head back to your hotel in time for dinner, reflecting on the magical experiences of the day.

Overnight: Boumalne Dades

Following breakfast, you’ll journey back to Marrakech along the scenic Road of 1000 Kasbahs, immersing yourself in the magical landscapes of Morocco. You’ll take a slightly different route and stop along the way to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, located just outside of Ouarzazate. If this impressive ksar looks familiar, it’s because it has made an appearance in many iconic movies and TV shows, including Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, The Jewel of the Nile, and Game of Thrones.

After exploring and enjoying lunch, you’ll continue your journey over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. You’ll arrive at your riad in Marrakech by late afternoon or early evening. After checking into your accommodations, you’ll have free time to explore this captivating city at your own pace.

Overnight: Marrakech

After breakfast, your local city guide will meet you at your riad for an immersive exploration of Marrakech. Your journey will take you to the magnificent Bahia Palace, the historic Saadian Tombs, and the iconic Koutoubia Mosque. Following these visits, your guide will lead you to the vibrant souks of Marrakech, where you can fully immerse yourself in the local culture, visit various artisans, and learn about their traditional crafts. The tour will conclude by mid-afternoon, leaving you plenty of free time to continue discovering the magical wonders of the city at your own pace.

Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Marrakech
Accommodations: Riad Nesma (or similar)

After breakfast, you will journey to the fortified city of Essaouira, also known as Mogador, a name derived from the Portuguese word meaning ‘wall.’ Archaeological findings indicate that this region has been inhabited since prehistoric times, though the city as it stands today was designed in the 18th century by the French engineer Thédore Cornut. Along the way, you’ll pass through groves of Argan trees, the source of Morocco’s prized ‘liquid gold’ – argan oil, produced with the distinctive aid of local goats. You’ll reach the coastal city around lunchtime, just in time to enjoy a seafood meal with freshly caught fish by the shore. Afterward, you will have the afternoon free to explore this charming and picturesque city.

Overnight: Essaouira

After two weeks of savoring Moroccan flavors, you might want to learn how to recreate these dishes when the craving strikes after your return home. Today, you’ll have the perfect opportunity! After a relaxing morning, you will meet your culinary expert and head to the souk to shop just like the locals. Once you’ve gathered all the fresh ingredients needed, you’ll head to her home for a step-by-step hands-on cooking class. Once your Moroccan feast is ready, you’ll enjoy the meal together as a group. Afterward, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon and evening free for last-minute shopping and preparing for your departure. Don’t forget to witness the most spectacular show in town – the sun setting behind the city walls, accompanied by the melodies of street musicians!

Overnight: Essaouira

This morning after breakfast, you will transfer to the Casablanca airport for your departing flights. Once there you’ll bid your tour manager au revoir until your next trip to Morocco.

ETA to Casablanca Mohamed V Airport is 1 PM; be sure to book your departing flight in the late afternoon to allow time to check in and get through security and immigration. Transfers can be arranged to Marrakech Airport for an additional fee.