Travel south to Morocco’s capital, Rabat. Enjoy the scenic transition from plains and green hills to more rugged landscapes. In Rabat, one of Morocco’s imperial cities alongside Fes, Marrakech, and Meknes, visit the Chellah Necropolis and wander through Roman and Islamic ruins.

Enter the Kasbah des Oudaias through its impressive gate and stroll the peaceful blue and white streets. Explore the Andalusian Gardens, then visit the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohamed V. The incomplete 12th century mosque project leaves behind the 44 meter red sandstone tower and several hundred remaining columns.

 After breakfast, continue to Meknes, a quieter imperial city reminiscent of Fes. Visit the Ville Impériale, the medina, Bab al-Mansour, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Royal Stables.

Then visit the UNESCO protected Roman ruins of Volubilis. Explore its temples, merchant houses with ancient heating systems, and well-preserved mosaics.

Arrive in Fes, a large and fascinating medina perfect for wandering. Before entering the old city, stop at the Merenid Tombs for a panoramic view of Fes. Return to your riad for the night.

 Fes, the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities, is a UNESCO site that has preserved its medieval character. The city contains two medinas, Fes el Bali and Fes el Jdid, plus the French built Ville Nouvelle. With your guide, explore Fes el Bali’s maze-like streets, noting the Spanish and Tunisian architectural influences. Wander through souks selling spices, leather, and metalwork.

Visit the Chouara Tannery for a rooftop view of the dyeing pits, then see the Al Attarine Madrasa and the ancient Al-Qarawiyyin University. Explore the mellah (Jewish quarter) for another viewpoint.

Continue south over the Col du Zad and through Middle Atlas cedar forests, where Barbary macaques are often seen. Arrive in Midelt for lunch and enjoy views of the Moulouya River and nearby orchards.

 Travel over the Tizi n’Talremt pass into the Ziz Valley, filled with oases and palm groves. Notice the ksars, fortified merchant homes built to protect valuable goods.

As you approach Erfoud, the landscape begins shifting toward Sahara dunes. You might encounter a nomadic Berber family and share tea. Visit Erfoud to see how fossil rich stone is carved into décor or useful items. Continue to the expansive Erg Chebbi dunes, spanning 35 square kilometers, with some dunes over 200 meters high.

Outside Merzouga, begin your camel trek into the dunes, reaching camp before sunset. Climb a dune to witness the colorful sky at dusk, then enjoy dinner and Berber music around the campfire under the stars. Overnight in a Bedouin style tent.

 After breakfast at your riad, begin your journey to the Dades Gorge. Stop at the lively traditional market in Rissani, which is especially active on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.

After exploring, continue to the dramatic Todra Gorge, where towering rock walls rise above the Todra River. Proceed toward the Dades region, where you will see the famous monkey fingers rock formations. Enjoy sweeping views of the valley’s rugged cliffs and greenery. Arrive at your hotel for a peaceful night of rest.

 Travel to Ouarzazate, known as the Hollywood of Africa and the Gateway to the Desert. Visit Atlas Studios, Morocco’s largest film studio, home to sets used in major productions.

Continue to Ait Benhaddou to explore its iconic kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featured in films like Gladiator, Indiana Jones, and Game of Thrones.

After lunch, cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, taking in stunning scenery. Arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon and settle into your riad. Dinner can be enjoyed either in your accommodation or in lively Jemaa el Fna Square.

 Known as the Red City for its ancient sandstone buildings, Marrakech dates back to the Berber Empire. Meet your guide to explore the souks: Souk el Attarin (spices), Souk Haddadine (blacksmiths), Souk Smata (slippers), and the dyers’ souk.

Visit the Bahia Palace in the Mellah, with its ornate craftsmanship, gardens, and exquisite ceilings—an incredible example of Moroccan architecture built between 1894 and 1900. Tour the Saadian Tombs, rediscovered in 1917, which date back to the 14th to 16th centuries.

See the Koutoubia Mosque and its Almohad style minaret, then visit the lush park beside it. Explore the Majorelle Garden, a serene oasis created in 1931 by Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent. The garden features exotic plants, vivid Majorelle blue buildings, and the Berber Museum, showcasing over 600 artifacts representing the culture of North Africa’s original inhabitants. Overnight in a riad.

 Leave Marrakech and drive toward Morocco’s Atlantic coast, crossing wide plains and argan forests where goats may be seen climbing trees to eat the fruit. Visit an argan oil cooperative to learn about oil production.

Arrive in relaxed Essaouira and enjoy the day at your leisure. Walk along the Skala de la Kasbah, see its old cannons, and admire views of the Atlantic. Explore the UNESCO listed medina and visit the breezy beach. Return to Marrakech, and if time permits, enjoy some free time to explore in the late afternoon.

 After breakfast, transfer from the riad to the airport for your departing flight. We wish you a safe journey home and hope to see you in Morocco again soon!