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splendors of morocco tour
TOURS
SPLENDORS OF MOROCCO TOUR
Splendors of Morocco: 11-Day Luxury Tour of the Imperial Cities, Sahara Desert and Cultural Wonders
Splendors of Morocco Tour Description:
Embark on an exclusive journey through Morocco's rich tapestry of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. This meticulously crafted Splendors of Morocco 11-day adventure combines the opulence of Imperial Cities with the raw beauty of the Sahara, offering discerning travelers an unparalleled immersion into the heart of North Africa.
Embark on an exclusive journey through Morocco's rich tapestry of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. This meticulously crafted Splendors of Morocco 11-day adventure combines the opulence of Imperial Cities with the raw beauty of the Sahara, offering discerning travelers an unparalleled immersion into the heart of North Africa.
Wander through bustling souks alive with the scents of spices and the sounds of traditional craftsmen at work. Discover the lush oases of Skoura's palm groves, marvel at the dramatic scenery of Dades Valley, and encounter the timeless way of life in the Valley of Nomads. Our expert tour guides, steeped in local knowledge and passion, lead you on a personalized adventure through Morocco's diverse tapestry of experiences. This meticulously crafted itinerary seamlessly blends luxury with authenticity, ensuring an immersive journey that caters to the most discerning travelers seeking both comfort and cultural richness.
- Tour Name: Splendors of Morocco Private
- Places Visited: Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Erg Chebbi Sahara Dunes, Ouarzazate, Skoura Oasis, Marrakech
- Duration: An 11-Day Exclusive Morocco Private Tour
- Morocco Private Tour Inclusions: Transport in Luxury 4x4 or Viano, Multilingual Speaking Driver, Airport Transfers, Local, Expert Historical Guides for Imperial Citiy Visits, Guided Day Tours, Trekking Guide for High Atlas, Admission Fees to Monuments and Attractions, Boutique Riads and Luxury Hotels, Luxury Desert Camp with en suite facilities, 14 Meals
- Tour Route: We recommend this Morocco Itinerary start and end in Casablanca. It can also be customized to start and end in Marrakech or be offered in reverse.
Tailored to Your Desires:
Our signature Morocco itinerary begins and concludes in Casablanca, offering a seamless journey through the kingdom's most iconic destinations. For those seeking flexibility, we gladly customize routes to commence or terminate in Marrakech, or traverse the country in reverse, tailoring the experience to your preferences.
Our signature Morocco itinerary begins and concludes in Casablanca, offering a seamless journey through the kingdom's most iconic destinations. For those seeking flexibility, we gladly customize routes to commence or terminate in Marrakech, or traverse the country in reverse, tailoring the experience to your preferences.
Splendors of Morocco Tour Highlights:
- Discover Morocco's Imperial Cities: Fes, Marrakech, Rabat, and Meknes
- Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert with luxury camping and camel treks
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Ait Ben Haddou and the Fes Medina
- Immerse in Berber culture with visits to authentic Atlas Mountain villages
- Marvel at intricate Moorish architecture in palaces and mosques
- Wander through serene Andalusian gardens in Marrakech and Rabat
- Uncover poignant Jewish heritage in Morocco's historic Mellahs
- Photograph ancient kasbahs rising from dramatic desert landscapes
- Haggle in the colorful souks of Marrakech for unique Moroccan crafts
- Journey through picturesque valleys steeped in rich Moroccan history
- Indulge in aromatic Moroccan cuisine with traditional cooking classes
Book Your Extraordinary Splendors of Morocco Journey:
You are guaranteed an enriching experience exploring Morocco's Imperial Capitals, Moorish and Islamic architecture, historic fortresses and an exceptional desert region.
You are guaranteed an enriching experience exploring Morocco's Imperial Capitals, Moorish and Islamic architecture, historic fortresses and an exceptional desert region.
- Book Here or Call (800) 787-8806
- Email: alecia@travel-exploation.com
Morocco Tour Day by Day Itinerary:
Discover Morocco's captivating culture, breathtaking landscapes, and luxurious boutique riads and hotels on this unforgettable journey through North Africa's crown jewel.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Casablanca & Imperial Rabat
- Arrival at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport
- Tour the Hassan II Mosque: Marvel at this architectural masterpiece, the largest mosque in Africa and the 5th largest in the world. Its minaret soars 210 meters high, and its prayer hall can accommodate 25,000 worshippers. The mosque's location on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean offers breathtaking views.
- Drive to Rabat (1.5 hours): Journey along the coast to Morocco's capital city, a blend of ancient history and modern diplomacy.
- Evening walk along Rabat's Corniche: Stroll along this picturesque waterfront promenade, watching local life unfold against the backdrop of the Bou Regreg River and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Welcome dinner at a gourmet Moroccan restaurant: Savor your first taste of authentic Moroccan cuisine, featuring a fusion of Berber, Arabic, and Mediterranean influences.
- Overnight in a luxury riad in Rabat: Experience the opulence of traditional Moroccan architecture combined with modern amenities in a restored mansion.
Day 2: Rabat, Meknes & Volubilis
- Morning tour of Rabat:
- Oudaïa Kasbah: Explore this 12th-century fortress with its narrow, winding streets and distinctive blue and white houses. The kasbah offers panoramic views over the ocean and the medina.
- Hassan Tower: Stand in awe of this incomplete minaret, intended to be the world's largest. The tower and its adjacent pillars are a testament to the grand vision of Almohad architecture.
- Mohammed V Mausoleum: Visit this masterpiece of modern Alaouite dynasty architecture, housing the tombs of the Moroccan king and his two sons. Marvel at the intricate zellij tilework and carved plaster.
- Drive to Meknes (2 hours): Travel through the fertile agricultural heartland of Morocco to reach the Imperial City of Meknes.
- Explore Meknes:
- Bab el-Mansour gate: Admire one of North Africa's most impressive monumental gates, known for its striking zellij mosaics and inscriptions.
- Royal Stables: Witness the grandeur of Moulay Ismail's vision in these vast stables, built to house 12,000 horses.
- Moulay Ismail Mausoleum: Experience the serene beauty of this elaborate mausoleum, one of the few sacred sites in Morocco open to non-Muslims.
- Continue to Volubilis (45 minutes): Journey through rolling hills and olive groves to reach this ancient Roman city.
- Guided tour of Volubilis Roman ruins: Walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans as you explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at well-preserved mosaics, the Triumphal Arch, and the Capitoline Temple, gaining insights into life in the Roman Empire's most remote province.
- Drive to Fes (1 hour): End your day traveling to Fes, the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco.
- Evening at leisure in Fes: Settle into your riad and perhaps take a short stroll to begin soaking in the atmosphere of this medieval city.
- Overnight in a boutique riad in Fes: Rest in comfort amidst traditional Moroccan décor, preparing for your in-depth exploration of Fes.
Day 3: Fes - Cultural Heart of Morocco (Part I)
- Full day exploration of Fes el Bali (Old Fes): Immerse yourself in the UNESCO World Heritage site, a labyrinth of over 9,000 narrow streets. Experience the sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells that make Fes unique.
- Visit Al-Quaraouiyine University: Step into the world's oldest continually operating university, founded in 859 AD. Admire its intricate architecture and reflect on its centuries of scholarship and cultural influence.
- Tour the 14th-century Bou Inania Madrasa: Marvel at this theological college, a prime example of Marinid architecture. Note the stunning zellij tilework, carved plaster, and cedar wood detailing.
- Explore the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts: Housed in a beautifully restored fundouk (caravanserai), this museum showcases traditional Moroccan craftsmanship. Admire intricate woodwork and learn about the city's artisanal heritage.
- Witness the famous Chouara Tannery: Observe the ancient art of leather tanning from terraces overlooking the iconic dye pits. The process has remained unchanged since medieval times, offering a glimpse into traditional Moroccan craftsmanship.
- Artisan workshops: Visit ceramics, metalwork, and textile artisans. Watch skilled craftsmen at work and gain insights into techniques passed down through generations.
- Evening food tour in the medina: Savor the flavors of Fes as you sample traditional street food and delicacies. Your guide will introduce you to hidden culinary gems within the ancient walls.
- Overnight in Fes: Return to your riad to reflect on a day filled with cultural immersion.
Day 4: Fes - Cultural Heart of Morocco (Part II)
- Morning visit to the Jewish Mellah and Ibn Danan Synagogue: Explore the historic Jewish quarter, learning about the coexistence of cultures in medieval Fes. Visit one of the oldest and most important synagogues in North Africa.
- Tour Ain Nkobi Pottery and Zellige Tile Cooperative: Witness local artisans creating intricate mosaics and pottery. Learn about the mathematical precision required in traditional Moroccan tilework.
- Explore the Andalusian-style gardens of Jnan Sbil: Enjoy a peaceful stroll through these lush gardens, a green oasis in the heart of the city. The gardens date back to the 18th century and showcase a variety of plant species.
- Afternoon at Batha Museum: Housed in a 19th-century summer palace, this museum displays a rich collection of traditional Moroccan arts and crafts. Admire fine examples of woodcarving, zellij, and local ceramics.
- Optional: Traditional hammam experience: Indulge in the time-honored Moroccan ritual of the hammam, a steam bath followed by exfoliation and massage. This relaxing experience offers insight into local bathing customs.
- Dinner at a renowned local restaurant: Conclude your time in Fes with a meal at one of the city's finest restaurants, savoring traditional Fassi cuisine in an elegant setting.
- Overnight in Fes: Enjoy a final night in your luxurious riad, reflecting on the wonders of this imperial city.
Day 5: Middle Atlas to Sahara
- Depart Fes for Merzouga (7-8 hours drive): Embark on a scenic journey through diverse landscapes, from cedar forests to barren plains.
- Stop in Ifrane, "Little Switzerland of Morocco": Visit this unique mountain town, known for its Alpine-style architecture and nearby ski resorts. The clean air and green spaces offer a stark contrast to the imperial cities.
- Visit cedar forests near Azrou, home to Barbary macaques: Walk among ancient cedar trees and encounter troops of Barbary macaques, the only primate species north of the Sahara besides humans.
- Lunch in Midelt: Pause in this high plains city, known for its minerals and apples. Enjoy a meal featuring local produce while taking in views of the eastern High Atlas mountains.
- Cross the Ziz Valley: Drive through this impressive palm grove, one of the largest in Morocco. The contrast between the lush oasis and surrounding arid landscapes is truly spectacular.
- Arrive in Merzouga, gateway to the Sahara: Reach the edge of the Sahara Desert, where the paved road ends and the sea of sand begins.
- Sunset camel trek into Erg Chebbi dunes: Mount your camel for a trek into the sweeping expanses of the Sahara. Watch as the setting sun paints the dunes in an array of warm hues.
- Traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars: Enjoy a feast of Moroccan specialties in the heart of the desert, surrounded by endless sand dunes.
- Optional: Stargazing session with local astronomer: Take advantage of the clear desert skies to observe celestial bodies rarely visible in light-polluted areas.
- Overnight in luxury desert camp: Experience the magic of sleeping in a luxurious tent in the Sahara, combining traditional nomadic elements with modern comforts.
Day 6: Merzouga to Skoura
- Sunrise yoga session in the dunes (optional): Greet the day with a gentle yoga session as the sun rises over the Sahara, a truly unforgettable experience.
- Visit Khamlia village, home to Gnaoua musicians: Experience the soulful sounds of Gnaoua music in this village inhabited by descendants of sub-Saharan slaves. Learn about their unique culture and musical traditions.
- Explore fossil sites in Erfoud: Visit workshops where artisans craft decorative items from locally found fossils, some dating back 380 million years.
- Drive to Ait Ouzzine Berber village: Travel to a traditional Berber village rarely visited by tourists. Witness a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
- Traditional lunch with a Berber family: Experience genuine Moroccan hospitality as you share a meal with a local family. Gain insights into Berber culture and daily life.
- Participate in bread baking and tea ceremony: Join in preparing traditional Berber bread and learn the art of Moroccan tea service, an important social ritual.
- Continue to Skoura via Draa Valley: Drive through the Draa Valley, Morocco's largest river valley, dotted with date palm oases and crumbling kasbahs.
- Evening relaxation in Skoura palm grove: Arrive at your kasbah-style hotel nestled within a lush palm grove. Unwind and enjoy the serene oasis environment.
- Overnight in kasbah-style hotel in Skoura: Rest in comfort, surrounded by the natural beauty and tranquility of the palm oasis.
Day 7: Skoura & Dades Valley
- Morning tour of Skoura's palm groves and Kasbah Amridil: Explore this verdant oasis, home to hundreds of kasbahs. Visit Kasbah Amridil, a 17th-century fortified dwelling featured on old Moroccan banknotes.
- Drive to Kalaat M'Gouna in the Valley of Roses: Journey to the heart of Morocco's rose-growing region. If visiting in May, witness the spectacular Rose Festival.
- Visit rose water distillery and cosmetics cooperative: Learn about the process of extracting precious rose oil and rose water. Discover how these local products are used in cosmetics and culinary applications.
- Continue to Boumalne Dades: Drive through a landscape of unusual rock formations and traditional Berber villages.
- Lunch with panoramic views of Dades Gorge: Enjoy a meal while taking in the breathtaking vistas of this dramatic canyon carved by the Dades River.
- Afternoon hike in Dades Gorge (optional): Take a guided walk through the gorge, marveling at its towering rock walls and unusual formations known as "monkey fingers."
- Visit nomad caves near Boutaghrar: Meet with semi-nomadic families who still inhabit caves in the region. Gain insight into their traditional lifestyle and the challenges they face.
- Return to Skoura for the night: Enjoy another evening in your oasis retreat, reflecting on a day filled with natural wonders and cultural encounters.
Day 8: Ouarzazate to Marrakech
- Early departure to Ait Benhaddou (1 hour): Set out for one of Morocco's most iconic sites, a fortified village that seems frozen in time.
- Guided tour of Ait Benhaddou Ksar, UNESCO World Heritage site: Explore this spectacular ksar, a prime example of southern Moroccan architecture. Climb to the top for panoramic views and learn about its history as an important stop on trans-Saharan trade routes.
- Visit film studios in Ouarzazate (optional): Tour the studios where many famous films and TV shows have been shot, including "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones."
- Drive over High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n'Tichka Pass: Embark on a stunning drive across North Africa's highest mountain range. The pass, at 2,260 meters, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Photo stops for panoramic views: Pause at strategic points to capture the dramatic scenery of the Atlas Mountains.
- Visit women's argan oil cooperative: Learn about the production of argan oil, a valuable product unique to Morocco. Witness the traditional extraction process and learn about the oil's culinary and cosmetic uses.
- Arrive in Marrakech late afternoon: Enter the famed "Red City," a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and smells.
- Evening orientation walk in Djemaa el-Fna square: Experience the electric atmosphere of Marrakech's main square as it comes alive with food stalls, entertainers, and locals enjoying the cool evening air.
- Overnight in luxury riad in Marrakech: Settle into your elegant riad, an oasis of calm in the heart of the bustling medina.
Day 9: Marrakech - The Red City's Mystique (Part I)
- Full-day historical tour of Marrakech: Delve into the rich history and culture of this imperial city, founded in 1062.
- Visit Koutoubia Mosque: Admire the iconic minaret of Marrakech's largest mosque, a masterpiece of Almohad architecture that has inspired similar structures in Seville and Rabat.
- Explore Bahia Palace: Wander through this 19th-century palace, marveling at its intricate decoration and peaceful courtyards. Learn about the lives of the wealthy and powerful in 19th-century Morocco.
- Tour the Saadian Tombs: Discover these ornate mausoleums, lost for centuries until their rediscovery in 1917. Admire the fine mosaics and carved cedar ceilings that decorate the tombs of the Saadian dynasty.
- Tour the Madrasa Ben Youssef: Visit this former Islamic college, renowned for its stunning architecture and decoration. The 16th-century building showcases some of the finest examples of Moroccan craftsmanship.
- Lunch at acclaimed local restaurant: Savor traditional Moroccan dishes in a refined setting, perhaps trying specialties like pastilla or tagine.
- Afternoon visit to Majorelle Gardens and Yves Saint Laurent Museum: Explore these vibrant botanical gardens, a tranquil haven in the heart of the city. Visit the adjacent museum dedicated to the work of fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, who helped restore the gardens.
- Evening at leisure: Take time to relax or explore the city independently.
- Optional: Sunset drinks at a rooftop cafe: End your day with drinks at a rooftop cafe, watching the sun set over the medina and listening to the call to prayer echo across the city.
- Overnight in Marrakech: Return to your riad for a restful night's sleep.
Day 10: Marrakech - The Red City's Mystique (Part II)
- Morning cooking class with traditional dada chef: Learn the secrets of Moroccan cuisine from a dada, a traditional female cook. Discover the art of blending spices and preparing classic dishes.
- Learn to prepare authentic Moroccan dishes: Master the techniques for making staples like tagine, couscous, and Moroccan breads.
- Lunch featuring your culinary creations: Enjoy the fruits of your labor, savoring the dishes you've prepared in a convivial atmosphere.
- Afternoon guided tour of souks: Dive into the labyrinthine markets of Marrakech. Explore different sections dedicated to everything from spices and textiles to metalwork and leather goods.
- Visit the Ensemble Artisanal, a government-run artisan center: See high-quality crafts being made and sold at fixed prices, offering a more relaxed shopping experience than the souks.
- Free time for shopping or relaxation: Take some time to pick up souvenirs or simply soak in the atmosphere of Marrakech.
- Farewell dinner with traditional entertainment: Conclude your Moroccan adventure with a special dinner featuring local music and perhaps a belly dancing performance.
- Optional: Visit Djemaa el-Fna for nighttime ambiance: Return to the main square to experience its transformation into a nighttime food market and entertainment venue.
- Overnight in Marrakech: Enjoy a final night in your luxurious riad.
Day 11: Farewell to Morocco
- Morning at leisure: Take time for last-minute activities or relaxation.
- Optional activities: Last-minute shopping, spa treatment, or photography walk through the medina.
- Transfer to Casablanca Mohammed V Airport for departure (2.5-3 hours drive): Bid farewell to Morocco as you head to the airport, reflecting on the memories of your journey.
Day 1: Casablanca & Imperial Rabat - Gateway to Moroccan Grandeur
ing travelers.
- Arrival at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport
- Guided tour of the awe-inspiring Hassan II Mosque, the world's second-largest religious building designed by French architect Michel Pinseau. This grand white mosuqe is situationed on a promontory looking out to the Atlantic, which can be seen through a gigantic glass floor with room for 25,000
- Explore the mosque's stunning architecture and intricate mosaics
- Drive to Rabat (1.5 hours)
- Evening walk along the Corniche of Rabat
- Welcome dinner at a gourmet Moroccan restaurant
- Overnight in a luxury riad in Rabat
Day 2: Rabat, Meknes & Volubilis - Imperial Splendor and Roman Legacy
- Morning tour of Rabat: Oudaïa Kasbah, Hassan Tower, Mohammed V Mausoleum
- Drive to Meknes (2 hours)
- Explore Meknes: Bab el-Mansour gate, Royal Stables, Moulay Ismail Mausoleum
- Continue to Volubilis (45 minutes)
- Guided tour of Volubilis Roman ruins, UNESCO World Heritage site
- Drive to Fes (1 hour)
- Evening at leisure in Fes
- Overnight in a boutique riad in Fes
Day 3: Fes - Cultural Heart of Morocco (Part I)
- Full day exploration of Fes el Bali (Old Fes)
- Visit the Al-Quaraouiyine University, world's oldest existing university
- Tour the 14th-century Bou Inania Madrasa
- Explore the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
- Witness the famous Chouara Tannery
- Artisan workshops: ceramics, metalwork, and textiles
- Evening food tour in the medina
- Overnight in Fes
Day 4: Fes - Cultural Heart of Morocco (Part II)
- Morning visit to the Jewish Mellah and Ibn Danan Synagogue,
- Indulge in Fes' unique blend Islamic and Sephardic History and the co-exisstence of past generlations
- Tour Ain Nkobi Pottery and Zellige Tile Cooperative. Witness local Artisans
- Explore the Andalusian-style gardens of Jnan Sbil
- Afternoon at Batha Museum, housed in a 19th-century palace
- Optional: Traditional hammam experience
- Dinner at a renowned local restaurant
- Overnight in Fes
Day 5: Middle Atlas to Sahara - From Cedar Forests to Golden Dunes
- Depart Fes for Merzouga (7-8 hours drive)
- Stop in Ifrane, "Little Switzerland of Morocco"
- Visit cedar forests near Azrou, home to Barbary macaques
- Lunch in Midelt, known for its minerals and apples
- Cross the Ziz Valley, dotted with palm groves
- Arrive in Merzouga, gateway to the Sahara
- Sunset camel trek into Erg Chebbi dunes
- Traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars
- Optional: Stargazing session with local astronomer
- Overnight in luxury desert camp
Day 6: Merzouga to Skoura - Oases and Berber Encounters
- Sunrise yoga session in the dunes (optional)
- Visit Khamlia village, home to Gnaoua musicians
- Explore fossil sites in Erfoud
- Drive to Ait Ouzzine Berber village
- Traditional lunch with a Berber family
- Participate in bread baking and tea ceremony
- Continue to Skoura via Draa Valley
- Evening relaxation in Skoura palm grove
- Overnight in kasbah-style hotel in Skoura
Day 7: Skoura & Dades Valley - Land of 1000 Kasbahs
- Morning tour of Skoura's palm groves and Kasbah Amridil
- Drive to Kalaat M'Gouna in the Valley of Roses
- Visit rose water distillery and cosmetics cooperative
- Continue to Boumalne Dades
- Lunch with panoramic views of Dades Gorge
- Afternoon hike in Dades Gorge (optional)
- Visit nomad caves near Boutaghrar
- Return to Skoura for the night
Day 8: Ouarzazate to Marrakech - Along the Ancient Caravan Route
- Early departure to Ait Benhaddou (1 hour)
- Guided tour of Ait Benhaddou Ksar, UNESCO World Heritage site
- Visit film studios in Ouarzazate (optional)
- Drive over High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n'Tichka Pass
- Photo stops for panoramic views
- Visit women's argan oil cooperative
- Arrive in Marrakech late afternoon
- Evening orientation walk in Djemaa el-Fna square
- Overnight in luxury riad in Marrakech
Day 9: Marrakech - The Red City's Mystique (Part I)
- Full-day historical tour of Marrakech
- Visit Koutoubia Mosque, symbol of Marrakech
- Explore Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs
- Tour the Madrasa Ben Youssef
- Lunch at acclaimed local restaurant
- Afternoon visit to Majorelle Gardens and Yves Saint Laurent Museum
- Evening at leisure
- Optional: Sunset drinks at a rooftop cafe
- Overnight in Marrakech
Day 10: Marrakech - The Red City's Mystique (Part II)
- Morning cooking class with traditional dada chef
- Learn to prepare authentic Moroccan dishes
- Lunch featuring your culinary creations
- Afternoon guided tour of souks, meeting artisans
- Visit the Ensemble Artisanal, a government-run artisan center
- Free time for shopping or relaxation
- Farewell dinner with traditional entertainment
- Optional: Visit Djemaa el-Fna for nighttime ambiance
- Overnight in Marrakech
Day 11: Farewell to Morocco
- Morning at leisure
- Optional activities: Last-minute shopping, spa treatment, or photography walk
- Transfer to Casablanca Mohammed V Airport for departure (2.5-3 hours drive)
