This exclusive 12 days tour departing from Rabat will take you on a journey of discovery through authentic Morocco, combining the fascinating imperial cities, the vibrant atmosphere of the medinas, the breathtaking landscapes of the Atlas Mountains, and the unique thrill of the Sahara Desert. From the capital Rabat to Casablanca, passing through the blue streets of Chefchaouen and the magic of Marrakech, to the golden dunes of Merzouga, you will experience an unforgettable journey of culture, nature, and adventure.
Highlights
- Explore the capital Rabat with its historical and cultural sites.
- Admire the spectacular Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
- Discover the magic of the Atlantic coast in Essaouira.
- Experience vibrant Marrakech among souks and historic buildings.
- Admire the kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou and the landscapes of the Atlas.
- Explore the spectacular Dades and Todra Gorges.
- Unforgettable experience in the Merzouga desert with camel trekking and a night under the stars.
- Immerse yourself in the spirituality and culture of Fez.
- Stroll through the blue streets of Chefchaouen.
12 days itinerary from Rabat to the desert
Meet and greet at Rabat airport and transfer to your hotel or riad. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have the opportunity to explore the Moroccan capital, an elegant and vibrant city where the historic past intertwines with the modern present. Overnight stay in Rabat.
After breakfast, meet your local guide to explore Rabat. You'll visit the Hassan Tower , the Mausoleum of Mohammed V , the Kasbah of the Oudayas with its blue and white alleys, and the Andalusian gardens. You'll stroll along the Corniche and see the Royal Palace from the outside. A day rich in history and culture, with return to the riad for the overnight stay.
Departure for Casablanca, Morocco's economic capital. Here you will visit the spectacular Hassan II Mosque , built partly over the ocean and famous for its imposing minaret. Stroll along the Ain Diab Corniche and explore the modern neighborhood with its Art Deco buildings. Overnight in Casablanca.
After breakfast, travel along the Atlantic coast to Essaouira , the City of Winds. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the UNESCO-listed medina, the ancient Portuguese walls, the fishing port, and the lively streets lined with craft shops and art galleries. Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner and overnight stay in a traditional riad.
In the morning, enjoy free time to stroll along Essaouira's beach, before departing for Marrakech, crossing countryside dotted with argan trees. Arrival in the "Red City" in the afternoon and check-in at your riad. In the evening, immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa square , the beating heart of the city, with street artists, merchants, and local flavors.
A full day with a local guide dedicated to exploring Marrakech. You will visit the Koutoubia Mosque , the sumptuous Bahia Palace , the Saadian Tombs , and the lively souks of the medina. You will stroll through the Majorelle Gardens (optional) and enjoy the unique experience of Jemaa el-Fnaa square at sunset, with its unforgettable lights, sounds, and aromas. Overnight in Marrakech.
Today the tour leaves the plains to cross the Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260 m). Stop at the Ait Ben Haddou kasbah , a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit Ouarzazate, “the Hollywood of Africa.” Continue through the Rose Valley to the spectacular Dades Gorges , with an overnight stay in a traditional guesthouse.
After breakfast, depart for the impressive Todra Gorges , a canyon with 300-meter-high walls. In the afternoon, arrive in Merzouga , the gateway to the Sahara. Here, a camel trek awaits you to reach the Berber camp among the Erg Chebbi dunes . Enjoy a traditional dinner, music around the campfire, and spend the night under the stars in comfortable tents.
Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the desert, then return by camel or jeep to Merzouga. Depart north through the Ziz Valley , Midelt, and the landscapes of the Middle Atlas, with stops in the cedar forest of Azrou to meet the Barbary apes. Arrive in Fez in the evening and spend the night in a riad.
A full day dedicated to exploring Fez, Morocco's spiritual and cultural city. You'll discover the medina of Fez el-Bali , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its souks, the Bou Inania Madrasa, the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque-University, and the famous Chouara tanneries. You'll also visit the Jewish Quarter and the golden gates of the Royal Palace. Overnight in Fez.
After breakfast, depart for Meknes , the imperial city famous for the monumental Bab Mansour gate and the Sahrij Swani basin. Continue towards the Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen , the blue city. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets, the main square, and the artisan workshops. Overnight in a traditional riad.
Last breakfast in Chefchaouen and free time to shop for souvenirs and take photos in the blue streets. Transfer to Rabat based on your flight schedule, and end our services with unforgettable memories of your trip.
Included
- Private transportation in a comfortable vehicle with an Italian/English-speaking driver/guide.
- Welcome and transfers to/from the airport.
- 11 nights in riads/hotels/desert camps (private rooms/tents).
- Daily breakfasts.
- 6 dinners (in the gorges and in the desert).
- Camel trek in Merzouga at sunset and sunrise.
- Official local guide in Rabat, Marrakech and Fes.
- Visits and excursions indicated in the itinerary.
Not included
- International flights.
- Lunches and some dinners not mentioned.
- Drinks and personal expenses.
- Entrance tickets to sites/monuments.
- Tips for driver, guides, and staff.