Splendors of Morocco
Choose an insider's approach to Morocco complete with exclusive, behind the scenes access and the world-class guiding offered by this fantastic luxury operator.
SPECIAL OFFER
7.7*
ECO SCORE
18
PASSENGERS
12
DAYS
3.5/5
ACTIVITY LEVEL
North Africa: Drink It In
Discover exotic Morocco, from the timeless walled city of Fez to the bustling medina in Marrakech, viewing local Berber life in the ruggedly beautiful High Atlas Mountains, and staying at this operator's Exclusive Desert Tented Camp nestled among the towering dunes of the Sahara. Explore Fez el-Bali, Morocco’s cultural heart, on a guided walk through its winding alleyways and past its myriad souks. Share lively conversation with a female professor over dinner and freely discuss the role of women in modern Morocco. And tread the ancient Roman paths of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to marvel at soaring arches and vivid, well-preserved 2,000-year-old mosaics, all on this unforgettable adventure.
Travel Curator’s Insights:
- • Visit local artisans whose works still reflect the influences of Morocco’s historic Roman, Moorish and Berber cultures.
• Venture into the Sahara by 4x4 and camel back for an unforgettable overnight stay in a tented camp that includes dinner and live Moroccan music.
• Travel with world-class experts and an operator who attends to every detail and request.
Trip Sustainability Awards
CARBON
Fantastic advances in minimizing carbon footprints at locations.
ENERGY
On the East African Energy Renewal Board
EDUCATION
Runs local educational facilities for children.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Casablanca, Morocco
Arrive in Casablanca and transfer to your luxurious accommodations, designed with contemporary styling and traditional Moroccan accents. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in this exotic setting, the inspiration for the eponymous, 1942 Humphrey Bogart film.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca
Day 2: Rabat & Fez | Ancient Traditions, Rich Heritage
Begin the day in the port city of Casablanca, Morocco’s largest metropolis and its commercial hub. Visit the stunning Hassan II Mosque, which accommodates up to 25,000 worshippers; its minaret stands as the tallest religious structure in the world. Then, travel to the Moorish city of Rabat, capital of Morocco, to visit the Mohammed V Mausoleum, dedicated to the founder of modern Morocco, grandfather of the current king. View the Mauresque-style Hassan Tower and Oudaya Kasbah, along with its palm-dotted Andalusian garden. Continue to Fez for a special cocktail reception. Then, sit down to a welcome dinner, joined by a female professor who converses with you about the role of women in modern Morocco, one of this operator's exclusive experiences.
Accommodation: Palais Faraj Suites & Spa
Day 3: Fez | Timeless Medieval City
Explore Fez el-Bali (Old Fez), the cultural heart of Morocco. Founded in the eighth century by Moulay Idris I, this imperial capital was a renowned center of medieval learning. Stroll the labyrinthine old quarter, with its 9,000 narrow lanes, alleys and souks, on a market visit of exceeding authenticity. Watching local craftsmen in action — working with bronze and pottery — makes for an engaging artisan visit as well. Proceed to the intricately detailed Karaouine. Built in 859 AD, it is one of the oldest still-functioning universities in the world. You also visit Nejjarine Square before continuing to Fez el-Jadid (New Fez), where you see the Royal Palace, madrasas (Islamic schools) and mellah (Jewish quarter).
Accommodation: Palais Faraj Suites & Spa
Day 4: Volubilis | Roman Ruins & Lunch in a Vineyard
Journey overland to explore Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa. With its triumphal arches, basilicas and capitals, the Volubilis skyline brims with iconic examples of Roman architecture. Among its greatest treasures, however, are the mosaic floors of former family dwellings, which include depictions of Orpheus charming animals with his lyre, nine dolphins signifying good luck and a portrait of Amphitrite in a seahorse-drawn chariot. Next, proceed to a winery outside Meknes for a memorable Chef’s Table lunch set among the region’s sunbathed vineyards and olive groves. Return to Fez, with your evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Palais Faraj Suites & Spa
Day 5: Erfoud | Desert Oasis
Travel to small, desert-fringed Erfoud, pausing for lunch en route and marveling at everyday life as you pass Berber villages, endless date palm plantations and the majestic Atlas Mountains. After the day’s scenic drive, settle into your hotel before gathering for dinner this evening. Tonight’s meal is prepared with locally sourced, organic ingredients.
Accommodation: L'Hotel by Chateau de Sable
Day 6: The Sahara | Into the Desert Dunes
This morning, discover the fortified desert town of Rissani. Continue into the desert dunes of the Sahara, at first by four-wheel-drive vehicle, amid stunning reddish-hued sand dunes that reach up to 500 feet high, creating an otherworldly landscape. Then, switch modes of transport and Ride Like a Local, on camel back, to your nomadic tented camp, where a reception with mint tea and pastries awaits you. As the sun sets over the Saharan dunes, celebrate your unforgettable desert foray with a Scenic Sundowner. Return to your camp for a traditional meal before a campfire, along with distinctively Moroccan entertainment. Then, slumber in comfort as the sounds of the desert lull you to sleep.
Accommodation: Exclusive Desert Tented Camp
Day 7: Ouarzazate | Road of a Thousand Kasbahs
Journey overland to Ouarzazate, once a stopping point for African traders travelling to the cities of Morocco and Europe. En route, absorb stunning views of the High Atlas' southern slopes, intersecting the Dades Valley’s flourishing crops, irrigation canals and palm trees. Travel along the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” to Ouarzazate and your delightful oasis of a hotel.
Accommodation: Le Berbère Palace
Day 8: Ouarzazate | Door of the Desert
Begin the day in Ouarzazate, a city originally built as a French garrison in the 1920s. Today, it is a regional trade center, known for its pottery and carpets. See the Kasbah of Tifoultoute, a majestic 17th-century fortress featuring a panoramic view of the valley of Ouarzazate and the scenic High Atlas Mountains. Continue to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of the region’s most exotic kasbahs, some of which have been featured in famous films, including Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator.
Accommodation: Le Berbère Palace
Day 9: Ouarzazate | Crossing the High Atlas Mountains
Journey over the High Atlas Mountains, observing everyday life in remote rural towns, to the fascinating “Red City” of Marrakech, where you check in to your luxurious hotel.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Marrakech
Day 10: Marrakech | Exploring the Red City
Today, begin to unearth the secrets of Marrakech, starting in the medina, the old walled section of town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at its architectural jewels, including the soaring Koutoubia Minaret. Then visit Dar Si Said Museum, originally built as a palace in the 19th century.
Afterward, visit Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech’s main square, which is filled with orange juice stalls and vendors, along with fire-eaters, acrobats, dancers and street musicians performing at every turn. You may also wish to stroll the city’s fabled, labyrinthine souks.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Marrakech
Day 11: Marrakech | Design Your Day
Begin your day at Jardin Majorelle, a picturesque garden created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by design legend Yves Saint-Laurent. Stop at the Yves Saint Laurent Museum nearby for an up-close look at some of the famed designer’s creations. This afternoon, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities:
• Learn to Cook with Moroccan Spices with a cooking demonstration and tasting.
• Explore the Souks of Marrakech with an expert guide, walking narrow streets lined with centuries-old shops.
• Enjoy a Guided Walk of the Jewish Quarter, once a thriving center of religious freedom and tolerance.
Tonight, attend a special farewell dinner with entertainment by a local gnaoua band.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Marrakech
Day 12: Depart Marrakech
Transfer to the Marrakech airport and board your international flight home, or join an Essaouira Post-Tour Extension. (This day includes Breakfast.)
Please Note: Departures are guaranteed to operate with a minimum of 2 guests. Long drives should be expected on this itinerary. This is the only way to experience the magical scenery that this exotic country has to offer.
Activity Level: Moderate. This journey contains some active elements.
Minimum age: 10 years.
First group event: welcome briefing at 6:15 p.m. on Day 1.
Last group event: farewell dinner at 7:00 p.m. on Day 11.
Rates
Questions?
Morocco is a signature destination for this top-of-the-line operator. Let them offer you a more intimate look at this mysterious country than you could ever experience on your own or with a less savvy company.
Joy Martinello, Founder
Questions?
What’s Included & Cancellation Policy:
WHAT'S INCLUDED
All accommodations, meals and fully guided sightseeing (including park and entrance fees) as noted in the itinerary; airport transfers to/from hotel in the first/last published city regardless of day of arrival and departure; services of Resident Tour Director or appropriate guide on Pre- and Post-Tour Extensions; coffee/tea/soft drinks/water at included meals; local wine and beer at all designated welcome and farewell dinners; local bottled water during sightseeing; porterage of up to two (2) pieces of baggage per person; complimentary Internet access (where available on cruises and at land accommodations; service levels are not guaranteed); hotel taxes; and gratuities throughout, except to the Resident Tour Director/Extension guide/East Africa safari driver-guides.
Travelling Bell Boy Service is provided; however, because of security regulations, this service may be limited at airports, rail stations and points of embarkation for cruises. Traveler’s Valet includes laundry service for eight (8) pieces per person once during journey (excludes Pre- and Post-Tour Extensions). Dry cleaning is not included. Breakfast in Bed service is included on select days up to two times per journey (limitations may apply for safari journeys).
