Embark on a captivating 11-day journey, immersing yourself in the diverse cultural tapestry and breathtaking landscapes that define Morocco. Uncover the coastal allure of Essaouira, experience the dynamic cosmopolitan energy of Casablanca and bask in the imperial grandeur of Meknes. Traverse ancient Roman ruins in Volubilis, wander the labyrinthine streets of Fes, and delve into the vibrant essence of Marrakech with its iconic Jemaa El-Fna Square. Venture through the majestic Atlas Mountains to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ain Benhaddou and its famed Kasbah and experience the awe-inspiring vastness of the Sahara Desert.
- 24/7 local operator support in Morocco
- Explore the coastal allure of Essaouira, a city steeped in history and seaside charm
- Uncover the charm of Casablanca and view the iconic Hassan II Mosque
- Roam the ancient streets of Meknes, the Ismailia capital
- Discover the mesmerizing Roman ruins of Volubilis, echoing the tales of a bygone era
- Wander through the Medieval labyrinth of Fez, recognised as the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco.
- Experience the harmonious blend of past and present in Rabat
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of Marrakech as you navigate bustling souks and the iconic Jemaa El-Fna Square
- Traverse the Tizi N'Tichka pass to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO world heritage kasbah that has served as a backdrop for numerous great movies
- Drive through the awe-inspiring Todra Gorge, celebrated for its towering canyons and escarpments, some reaching heights over 300 meters
- Journey along the famed Road of the 1000 Kasbahs
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Marrakech (D)
Welcome to Morocco. On arrival you will be met by a representative of our local operator and transferred to your hotel where your accommodation is reserved for one night with dinner and breakfast. Remainder of day at leisure.
Day 2: Marrakech – Essaouira - El Jadida – Casablanca (540kms) (BD)
Depart early for Essaouira, the historic Portuguese city formerly known as Mogador. Explore this city, once a haven for hippies and steeped in Portuguese history as a harbour town boasting the world's oldest preserved fortified port. Optional seafood lunch. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Casablanca, passing by the Atlantic road with stops in Oualidia and El Jadida. Take an orientation tour of El Jadida, originally built by the Portuguese and once called Mazagan, and possibly (time permitting) also visit the Portuguese Cistern. Conclude the day with dinner at overnight at your hotel in Casablanca.
Day 3: Casablanca – Meknes – Fez (320kms) (BD)
This morning uncover Casablanca’s hidden gems. This city gained even more fame following the release of the movie Casablanca, starring Humphry Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. Visit the Habous district, the Royal Palace, Mohamed V Square, the residential area of Anfa and view the exterior of the great Hassan II Mosque. Journey onwards to Meknes, the Ismalia capital with the longest ramparts in Morocco (40km). Known as “the Moroccan Versailles,” Meknes was founded late in the 17th century and contains some of the world’s best examples of Maghreb Architecture. Optional lunch. Marvel at the beautifully preserved mosaic gate Bab Mansour, the Royal Stables and the Jewish Quarter then continue through the holy city of Moulay Driss and visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, famed for their amazing preservation and stunning mosaic floors. Continue to Fez for dinner at your hotel.
Day 4: Fez (BD)
Discover Fez, the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco. Visit the Royal Palace, Attarine or Bou Anania Medersa, the famous Nejjarine Fountain and the outside of Moulay Idriss mausoleum and Karaouine Mosque. Experience a typical lunch (optional-own expense) in a traditional restaurant located in the heart of the Medina where a program of renewal has seen a myriad of eateries take up residence amongst the medieval alleyways. From the traditional tagine to contemporary artisanal delicacies inspired by the local produce and many spices found in the medina, there is something for everyone. Continue with a trip back in time through the medieval Medina and its souks where you will see craftsmen breathing new life into their age-old methods. Return to your hotel for dinner – if you still have room!
Day 5: Fez – Rabat – Marrakech (485 kms) (BD)
This morning you will depart for Marrakech via Rabat, the administrative capital. In Rabat embark on an enchanting journey through the white imperial city. A delightful mix of past and present, this city was founded in the 12th century and contains many wondrous sites. Visit the Royal Palace (Mechouar), Mohamed V Mausoleum and Hassan Tower Mosque. Optional seafood lunch. Continue to Marrakech arriving late afternoon. Dinner at your hotel.
Day 6: Marrakech (BL)
Explore the wonders of Marrakech, the second oldest imperial city in Morocco, known as “the Ochre City” and the “Pearl of the South,”. Your historical visit includes the Menara Gardens with its delightful pavilion that sits above a reflective pool, Saadian Tombs, Bahai Palace, Koutoubia and Dar Si Said Museum. After lunch at the hotel continue to explore Marrakech visiting the souks (markets) with their latticework of winding little streets, the handicraft quarters and the famous Djemaâ El Fna Square. This district, famed for its entertainment, features storytellers, snake charmers, fire-eaters and more. Optional (supplement applies): Dinner with show.
Day 7: Marrakech - Ait Benhaddou - Zagora (380kms) (BD)
This morning you will depart to Ait Benhaddou through Tizi N’tichka pass (altitude 2260m). Visit the famous Kasbah, a UNESCO world heritage site, that served as a backdrop for many great movies such as Laurence of Arabia, Troy, Gladiator, Games of thrones. Optional lunch (own expense). Continue to Zagora crossing the Draa Valley. Dinner is included at your hotel this evening.
Day 8: Zagora – Nkob – Tazzarine – Erfoud (300kms) (BD)
Depart for Erfoud with a stop at Tamgroute village, known for its pottery centre. The route taken today also includes the villages Tansikht, Nkob, Tazzarine and Alnif with splendid pre-Saharan scenery. Optional lunch at Alnif (own expense). In the afternoon, continue to Erfoud via the village of Rissani, birthplace of the Alaouites Dynasty. Dinner at your hotel.
- 4x4 Excursion to Merzouga dunes to see the sunset with camel ride in Merzouga
- Overnight amidst Merzouga dunes in a luxury bivouac (includes transfers, dinner and camel ride). The Merzouga Dunes are an impressive drifting chain of sand dunes that can reach 160m and seem to have escaped from the much larger dune field across the nearby border in Algeria. The Erg Dunes are a magical landscape and offer a scene of constant change as sunlight transforms them from pink to gold to red. Tonight experience a dinner and night under the stars.
Day 9: Erfoud - Tinghir - Ouarzazate (350kms) (BD)
- 4x4 Excursion to Merzouga dunes to admire the sunrise from the top of the sandy dunes
This morning, journey to Tinghir with a visit of its magnificent Todra Canyons where rocks reach an altitude of 250m. Optional lunch (own expense) in a local restaurant near the canyons. In the afternoon, continue along the road of the 1000 Kasbahs, passing through Kalaat M’Gouna and Skoura valley on the way to Ouarzazate. Upon arrival, embark on a short orientation tour. Dinner at your hotel.
Day 10: Ouarzazate – Marrakech (220kms) (BD)
Depart this morning via the Tizi N’tichka pass for Marrakech. Optional lunch at a restaurant en-route. Dinner at your hotel this evening.
Day 11: Marrakech (B)
Today you will be transferred to Marrrakech Airport for your onward flight.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- 24/7 local operator support in Morocco
- Airport meet and assist and return airport transfers on Day 1 & Day 11
- 10-nights’ hotel accommodation
- Breakfast daily at hotels
- 1 lunch
- 9 dinners
- Modern Air-conditioned touring vehicle
- Bilingual professional tour escort and local guides where required
- Sightseeing and visits as specified in itinerary
- Entrance fees to monuments as per the itinerary
- Porterage at all hotels
- VAT taxes
- Morocco Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International airfares
- Optional meals as specified in itinerary (full board supplement available)
- Optional tours and excursions
- Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Personal Expenses
- Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
- Visas (unless specified)
- Travel Insurance (compulsory)
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
OPTIONAL EXTRAS:
- Full Board Supplement: includes optional meals mentioned in itinerary - 7 lunches, 1 dinner with show in Marrakech: $375 per person
- Camel excursion in Merzouga: $50
- Overnight Merzouga in a luxury bivouac (includes transfers, camel ride, dinner and breakfast) - price on application
Marakech
Value Class: Palm Plaza | Ryad Mogador Agdal | Zalagh Kasbah
First Class: Kenzi Rose Garden Hotel | Ryad Mogador Menara | Jaal Riad Resort
Casablanca
Value Class: Movenpick Hotel | Hotel Mogador Marina | Novotel
First Class: Kenzi Tower Hotel | Grand Mogador City Centre | Barcelo
Fez
Value Class: Zalagh Parc Palace | Menzeh Zalagh | Volubilis
First Class: Heritage Boutique Hotel | Palais Medina Riad Resort | Barcelo
Zagora
Value Class: Palais Asmaa | Kasbah Sirocco | Ksar Tinsouline
First Class: Riad Lamane | Dar Sofian | Kasbah Sirocco
Erfoud
Value Class: Erfoud Palace | Palm’s Hotel
First Class: Kasbah Xaluca | Palais du Desert
Ourzazate
Value Class: Karam Palace | Kenzi Azghor
First Class: Hotel Riad Ksar Ighnda | Oscar Hotel by Atlas Studios
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are valid for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.
