This 13-day private trip through Morocco is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in one of the world’s most distinctive cultures. You'll be staying most nights in Riad and some in first class hotels. There is an option to stay in a desert camp for one night. A round trip from Casablanca, it’s an easy way to see the best of the country in two weeks.
Transfer from Casablanca airport to Rabat, then on to Tangiers, the fabled city that inspired the Beat poets. A guided full-day tour shows you what they found so enchanting. Start at Saint Andrew’s Church, then see the Royal Palace and the Cave of Hercules before returning for more of the sights around Tangiers. An Andalusian music show completes your day before going on to Chefachaouen, a spectacular drive toward the Rif Mountains.
Your next stop is Moulay Idriss, where Morocco’s Arab conquerors first settled. This is followed by Meknes, one of the great imperial cities of Morocco, and Fes, where you’ll spend the next two nights. Fes is a very special city, with perhaps the oldest and most beloved medina in the whole country. The site of the world’s first established university (which you will visit), it also has a strong tradition of handcrafts.
Morocco probably isn’t where you thought you’d go for a little taste of Switzerland, but that’s exactly the comparison invited by the road to Midlelt. There are ski towns and European-style chalets here, while Midlelt itself serves as more of an agricultural and mining hub. As you approach southeastern Morocco, you’ll see fortified villages that form one of the country’s most historic regions. You can even opt to stay at a desert camp (at extra charge) instead of in Merzouga, if you’d prefer.
If you’re enchanted by the idea of a sunrise camel ride, now’s your chance. It’s hard to ask for a more beautiful setting than the Atlas Mountains. You’ll visit Todra Gorge and the Tinghir Oasis, then stop to quite literally smell the roses at Kelaat M’Gouna. From flowers to film stars, stay overnight in Ouarzazate, the centre of Morocco’s booming movie industry (after such spectacular scenery, who can argue?).
Many visitors to Morocco consider Marrakech to be the highlight, and it certainly shows life in the country at its most dynamic. Lose yourself in bazaars, surrounded by mosques, snake charmers, fire eaters, and more. A full day tour makes sure you don’t miss any of the key sights, but with so much to explore, take a full day at leisure to see what you can find for yourself.
Your last full day transfers you to Casablanca, via Safi, a former outpost of the Portuguese empire. Spend a night in Casablanca (you can even rub shoulders with the tourists at Rick’s if you’d like), before being transferred to the airport for your onward flight.