Magical Morocco: Souks & Sahara Expedition 

12 Day Itinerary

For a full itinerary with terms and conditions click here

Day 1 (Sept 15): Welcome to Casablanca

Salaam Alaikum! Welcome to the vibrant heart of Morocco. Your journey begins the moment you land at Casablanca Airport, where a representative will greet you and arrange your transfer to the hotel. Settle in and prepare for a welcome meeting where you'll get to meet your fellow adventurers and your group leader.

The day concludes with a celebratory welcome dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant. Enjoy an array of classic dishes like tagine, couscous, and pastilla, immersing yourself in the rich culinary traditions that Morocco has to offer. This is just the beginning of your Moroccan adventure! (D)

Day 2 (Sept 16): From the Grand Mosque to Ancient Ruins

Start your day at one of Casablanca’s most majestic landmarks, the Hassan II Mosque, which stands grandly over land and sea. This architectural marvel is one of the few mosques open to non-Muslims, offering a unique glimpse into Islamic art and culture.

Afterward, depart Casablanca for the historical streets of Meknes. Here, explore the shrine of Moulay Ismail, visit ancient granaries, and stroll through a local market brimming with vegetables, olives, and traditional sweets. Continue your journey to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a once-thriving provincial capital. A local guide will bring the city’s storied past to life as you wander among its impressive remains.

Enjoy a picnic lunch featuring fresh bread, cheese, seasonal fruits, and olives picked up from the market. Then, travel on to Fes.

This evening, experience Moroccan hospitality firsthand with a private pastilla dinner at the home of a local family turned into a restaurant after hours. Engage in conversation with your hosts about life in Fes while learning how to prepare pastilla, a celebrated Moroccan dish that combines savoury meat with sweet layers of pastry, eggs, caramelized onions, lemon, and sugared almonds. Conclude your day with a traditional sweet treat, perfectly rounding off a night of cultural immersion. (B,L,D)

Day 3 (Sept 17): Delving into the Heart of Fes El Bali

Today, venture into the heart of medieval Fes, known locally as Fes El Bali. As one of the world's historic centers of education and culture, both Islamic and Jewish, Fes boasts legendary religious institutions, libraries, and mosques. Your guide will bring the city’s rich history to life as you meander through its labyrinthine streets and alleyways, passing donkeys laden with goods.

The air in the old city is vibrant with the sounds of daily life: the squawks of chickens, the aromatic scents of spices, and the rhythmic hammering of copper artisans. As you explore, discover historic khans, madrasas, and the colourful dye pits. Stalls brimming with fruits, herbs, and soups line the paths, each turn offering a new sensory experience.

Pause the bustling exploration for a moment of tranquillity with a traditional mint tea at a family-owned tea house. Spend the remainder of your day exploring notable sites like the Al-Attarine Madrasa, the famous tanneries, and the splendid Funduk Nejjarine, a beautifully restored 18th-century inn that captures the essence of Fes's architectural glory. (B)

Day 4 (Sept 18): Journey to the Oasis of Erfoud

Today marks a scenic departure from the bustling city as you head towards the tranquil desert oasis town of Erfoud. Brace yourself for a long drive, but rest assured, the journey will be filled with breathtaking views and opportunities for memorable photos. The road takes you through diverse landscapes: olive groves, pastoral scenes of shepherds with their flocks, forests teeming with cedar, pine, and oak, and valleys lush with date palms, all set against the backdrop of the majestic High Atlas Mountains.

Upon arrival in Erfoud, a town established by the French in the early 1900s, you'll notice the unique red sand buildings that merge effortlessly with the desert environment. This town serves as your gateway to the Sahara Desert. Take the opportunity to try some local dates, renowned for their quality and sweetness so much so that Erfoud celebrates them with a dedicated festival annually. (B)

Day 5 (Sept 19): Under the Stars: Camping in the Sahara Desert

Begin your day by exploring Khemliya, a traditional Saharan village nestled on the edge of the vibrant orange Erg Chebbi sand dunes. Khemliya is celebrated for its unique style of music and dance, which encapsulates the spirit of the Sahara. For lunch, immerse yourself in the local culture as you learn about and taste medfouna, a beloved regional specialty often referred to as "Berber pizza."

After lunch, embrace the traditional mode of desert transport and ride a camel through the expansive sands to reach our unique accommodation for the evening —a spectacular camp secluded among the Sahara dunes. This enchanting retreat offers the perfect blend of remoteness and comfort, featuring permanent tents equipped with large beds, en suite bathrooms, and authentic decor.

As night falls, dine under the North African sky, now a canopy of thousands of stars. The evening culminates with live Gnaoua music and storytelling around an open fire, providing a profound connection to the timeless allure of desert life. (B,L,D)

Day 6 (Sept 20): Sunrise in the Sahara and the Splendor of Todra Gorge

Begin your day with an unforgettable camel ride at sunrise, witnessing the Sahara Desert transform with breathtaking shades of orange as the sun ascends the horizon. After a hearty breakfast, depart for Todra Gorge, a magnificent natural wonder where massive limestone cliffs rise over 250 meters, creating one of Morocco's most dramatic landscapes.

At Todra Gorge, the towering rock formations offer the perfect backdrop for hiking. Enjoy a short and gentle walk through the gorge, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its stunning beauty and tranquility. You’ll stop for lunch with a local family living within an old kasbah. Here you’ll enjoy some regional dishes and another look inside a typical Moroccan home. (B,L,D)

Day 7 (Sept 21): Palm Groves and Historical Kasbahs

Today, enjoy a serene walk through lush palm groves, lasting approximately two to three hours over gentle terrain. During the stroll, your leader will delve into the significance of date farming in Morocco and highlight the local agricultural practices.

Following your walk, visit Kasbah Amridil, a 17th-century fortified residence that now operates as a living museum. This well-preserved kasbah has been maintained by the same family who built it, offering a unique glimpse into the daily life of Morocco 300 years ago, complete with wandering goats and a traditional olive oil press.

The afternoon is yours to relax at the lodge. Whether you choose to unwind by the pool with a good book or simply soak up the sun, it's an ideal setting to enjoy a leisurely afternoon in this picturesque part of Morocco. (B,D)

Day 8 (Sept 22): Ancient Ait Benhaddou and Artistic Encounters

Depart from Skoura and journey to Ait Benhaddou, an ancient hilltop site that has remained virtually unchanged since the 11th century. This location is renowned for its stunning kasbah and clay architecture, and you may recognise it from famous films and TV shows like Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones, and Gladiator. Explore the Old Town and climb to the hilltop for breathtaking scenic views.

Next, visit Tawesna, a riverside teahouse, for a delightful lunch featuring freshly made Amazigh bread, soup, Moroccan sweets, and mint tea. This community-run establishment not only offers delicious local fare but also supports local women by providing them a small income. Ingredients are sourced from local cooperatives, and the women take pride in sharing their stories and offering an authentic Amazigh experience.

Continue your cultural exploration at Taman ‘Art Space, an art studio and cultural center founded by a local artist. Engage with the artist to discuss his methods, inspirations, and creative process. Enjoy a cup of tea on the terrace, surrounded by inspiring views.

Conclude the day by traversing the winding mountain pass of Tizi Ni Tichka to reach Imlil, a quaint village nestled at the base of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. (B,L)

Day 9 (Sept 23): Morning Walk in Imlil

After breakfast, embark on a gentle exploration of Imlil and its surrounding landscapes. This pleasant walk, lasting no more than three hours, is tailored to fit the pace and interests of the group. As you wander through this quaint village nestled in the Moroccan highlands, you'll gain deeper insights into the daily routines and lifestyles of the local residents as they go about their morning activities and enjoy a home-cooked picnic lunch together as a group.

The rest of the day is left to your leisure, allowing you to relax or continue exploring the serene environment at your own pace. (B,L)

Day 10 (Sept 24): Marvels of Marrakech

After breakfast, depart for Marrakech, your vibrant final destination where you'll spend the next two nights. Upon arrival, check into a traditional riad, offering an authentic Moroccan experience with its intricate architecture and warm hospitality.

Today, a local guide will unveil the enchantment of Marrakech as you delve into the heart of the medina and its lively souks, the pulsating lifeblood of the city. Wander through serene courtyards infused with the scent of orange blossom and visit the lavish Bahia Palace to experience its opulence.

Although the interior of the Koutoubia Mosque is reserved for Muslims, you can admire its striking minaret, a landmark of Marrakech. Continue your exploration to Djemaa el-Fna, the city's bustling main square. Along the way, refresh yourself with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice from a local stall—likely the tastiest you’ll ever try, making this day a perfect blend of cultural immersion and sensory delights. (B)

Day 11 (Sept 25): Free Day and Farewell Dinner in Marrakech

Today offers a full day to explore Marrakech at your leisure. Consider visiting Le Jardin Secret, a beautifully restored traditional garden with a magnificent courtyard, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Or, dive back into the medina to hone your haggling skills among the vibrant souks.

As evening approaches, gather with your group for a farewell dinner. Your local guide will take us to local restaurant where you can enjoy a final taste of Moroccan cuisine. The perfect way to reflect on your journey and celebrate the experiences shared with your fellow travellers in the magical setting of Marrakech. (B,D)

Day 12 (Sept 26): Goodbye Morocco

Your memorable journey through Morocco concludes today. After enjoying a final breakfast, check-out from your riad will typically be around 12:00 noon. You are free to depart at your convenience. If you've arranged for a private airport transfer, you will be informed of your pick-up time. Safe travels! (B)

For a full itinerary with terms and conditions click here