Best of Morocco

The intoxicating sights and sounds of Morocco are revealed on this epic adventure through an ancient land. Delve into the intrigue and romance of Casablanca, immortalised by Hollywood, before meeting your travel companions and Travel Director for dinner.

Continue along the coast to the capital, Rabat. Here you’ll embark on an orientation tour of the city which includes views of the grand 17-century Palace and Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Travelling to the imperial city of Meknès, you'll see the grand gate of Bab elMansour, one of the most impressive monumental gateways in North Africa, adorned by green and white zeillij tiles. Arrive in Fes later today where you can choose to spend the evening at leisure in the country's oldest imperial city or enjoy a local meal of fine food, and traditional entertainment on our evening optional experience.

Join a Local Specialist to explore the Medina, one of the world’s largest living medieval centres. Start at Borj Hill for views over the city before heading into the Medina’s narrow streets. Visit Medersa El Attarine, then join your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the American Fondouk to meet the volunteer veterinarians caring for working animals. See the Royal Palace and Dive into Culture at the dye-pits and tanneries, where leather is still made using traditional methods. Later, visit a carpet cooperative before joining your fellow travellers for a Be My Guest experience with dinner in a traditional riad.

Follow the old caravan trail south, stopping for a lunch in Midelt, a market town set within the high plains between the Middle and High Atlas mountain ranges. Continuing along the palm-fringed Ziz Valley and past the Tafilalt oasis, you'll arrive in the oasis town of Erfoud, regarded as the 'Gateway to the Sahara'. Its golden façades and towering dunes have made it a popular location for filmmakers for decades. This evening we dine at our hotel.

Relax with a leisurely morning, or you may prefer to explore the desert town of Rissani. This afternoon we experience a traditional lunch of Madfouna, also known as ‘Berber Pizza’. This dish is a delight for the senses with seasonal fillings and spices. Later, continue to Great Erg Chebbi where we are transported into the heart of the dunes to your authentic Nomad-style accommodation for the night. This evening witness the most unforgettable sunset before dining with local music and dancers. The night sky of the Sahara offers a magical view of the stars, planets and constellations, discover how the Nomads used these for navigation.

Journeying west, stop at Todra Gorge before continuing to Tinghir, one of the most beautiful oases in southern Morocco and home to the ruins of the ancient Glaoui palace. Wander the Kasbahs and discover the city as you enjoy some free time after lunch. Meet a local Imam and his family to learn about living in the region. Enjoy a Stays with Stories experience as you overnight at Xaluca Dades, surrounded by panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains.

Pause for a photo at the gates of Atlas Studios in Ouarzazate, one of Morocco’s best-known film locations, before continuing to Aït Ben Haddou. Here, your Travel Director will orient you through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its earthen buildings and historic ksar that once sat on an important trade route. Enjoy free time to wander the narrow lanes, browse local crafts or climb for views across the surrounding landscape. Later, cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, descending towards Marrakesh, Morocco’s vibrant Red City.

Spend the morning in Marrakesh your way, with time to explore at your own pace or join an Optional Experience to the Majorelle Garden, the botanical garden restored by Yves Saint Laurent. Later, visit Dar El Bacha, then stop at a Moroccan pharmacy to discover traditional ingredients and local wellness practices. Continue to Jemaa el-Fnaa, Marrakesh’s main square, before the rest of the day is free. This afternoon, you could choose to relax with an Optional Experience at a traditional hammam.

Today is yours to explore Marrakesh your way, whether that means returning to favourite spots, browsing the souks or simply taking time to enjoy the city at your own pace. You could also choose to join a full-day Optional Experience to Essaouira, the laid-back Atlantic port known for its sea-facing ramparts, harbour and old medina.

Leave Marrakesh behind and head for Casablanca, where a different side of Morocco awaits. Spend time along the Corniche and enjoy free time by the Atlantic, or join an Optional Experience with a Local Specialist to visit the Hassan II Mosque, an oceanfront mosque with a soaring minaret and detailed marble and tilework. This afternoon, you might explore the Harbour Quarter, browse the old medina for souvenirs or stop at Rick’s Cafe. Later, join your fellow travellers for dinner and raise a glass to your time in Morocco.

Say goodbye to your newfound friends at the end of your Moroccan holiday.