12 Day Imperial Cities Tour from Casablanca

Indulge in a delectable breakfast at your riad, setting the stage for an exciting day of exploration in the Medina. Prepare to uncover the hidden gems known only to the locals as you delve into the labyrinthine streets of Fez. As a former capital of Morocco for over three centuries, Fes boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture, proudly hosting the prestigious University of Al Karaouine, the oldest continuously operating university in the world.

Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, embark on a journey to discover iconic landmarks such as the revered Moulay Idriss mausoleum, the enchanting Nejjarine Fountains, and the vibrant Tanneries, each offering a glimpse into Fes’ storied past. Following a savory lunch, your exploration continues with a glimpse of the majestic Royal Palace and a stroll through the atmospheric Jewish quarter, known as “the Mellah,” where you’ll have the opportunity to visit one of Morocco’s few remaining active synagogues.

Following a delightful breakfast at your riad, embark on an enchanting journey towards the southeast, tracing the ancient Caravan roads leading to Merzouga. As you traverse this scenic route, be prepared to be mesmerized by glimpses of the majestic Middle Atlas and Higher Atlas mountains, each offering a breathtaking backdrop to your adventure.

Pause for a moment of tranquility amidst the sprawling Cedar forest, the largest in all of Morocco, nestled within the Middle Atlas Mountains, where you may even catch a glimpse of the elusive Barbary apes. After a satisfying lunch in the picturesque town of Midelt, continue your expedition through the vast expanse of the high desert, marveling at the gradual transformation of the landscape as it gradually reveals hints of the desert terrain.

As you approach the city of Er Rachidia, observe how the scenery shifts, paving the way for the arrival of the desert landscape. Your journey unfolds along the lush Ziz Valley, famed for its verdant date palm groves, a testament to the rich agricultural heritage of the region and the foundation of the esteemed Alaouite dynasty, Morocco’s reigning royal family.

Commence your day with a delightful breakfast at the riad before embarking on an immersive exploration of the surrounding area, filled with captivating experiences and cultural encounters. Begin your journey by visiting the Gnawa people, descendants of slaves originally brought from Sudan, to immerse yourself in their mesmerizing music and vibrant lifestyle. Nearby lies the picturesque Lake of Merzouga, home to a myriad of bird species, offering a tranquil oasis amidst the desert landscape.

Venture further to the bustling souk in Rissani, a traditional town steeped in history as the ancestral home of Morocco’s ruling family and a pivotal trading hub for caravans journeying as far as Timbuktu in Mali. Here, witness the bustling marketplace teeming with hooded men and veiled women, a scene that echoes centuries of tradition and commerce.

Return to the village of Merzouga for a well-deserved rest, before embarking on an unforgettable camel ride into the heart of the mesmerizing sand-sea of Merzouga. Guided by an experienced camel man, traverse the undulating dunes as the sun begins to set, painting the desert in hues of gold and crimson.

As dawn breaks, your camel guide will gently rouse you to witness what promises to be one of the most breathtaking sunrises of your lifetime. After soaking in the awe-inspiring sunrise, you’ll journey back to the village of Merzouga, taking in the mesmerizing beauty of the Erg Chebbi sand dunes along the way, their contours shifting gracefully with the changing light of the day.

Following a hearty breakfast at your riad, your adventure continues as you set off for Rissani, Tinghir, and the Todra Gorges – renowned as the highest and narrowest gorges in all of Morocco. After a satisfying lunch amidst the stunning scenery of the gorge, traverse the picturesque Dades Valley, where you’ll marvel at the majestic sand castles and the captivating rock formations aptly named “monkey toes.”

Following a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, we’ll embark on a scenic drive through the captivating Dades Valley, bound for Kalaat Mgouna and Ouarzazate. As we traverse the Dades Valley, renowned as the route of the thousand Kasbahs, prepare for countless opportunities to capture some of the most stunning photographs of your journey.

Our first stop takes us to Kalaat Mgouna, affectionately known as “the rose city,” where you’ll have the chance to purchase fragrant rosewater, a delightful souvenir that will infuse your linens with a lasting reminder of your Moroccan adventure.

Continuing our journey, we’ll venture onwards to Ouarzazate, passing by the Amridil Kasbah, once the stronghold of Berber chieftains during the 18th century and now a residence for many Glaoui people.

Following an early breakfast at the riad, we embark on a captivating journey to the ancient ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village boasting a renowned Kasbah that was honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. This iconic location has served as the backdrop for numerous blockbuster films, including Gladiator, Obelix, The Mummy, The Jewel of the Nile, and Sahara starring Penélope Cruz, each contributing to its legendary status.

After exploring the historic Kasbah, our adventure continues as we make our way to Marrakech, traversing the scenic Tizi Ntichka pass, the highest point in our country at 2,260 meters above sea level. Along the route, we’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas and picturesque landscapes, punctuated by stops to capture the charm of traditional Berber villages through our lenses.

After a delightful breakfast at your riad, set out on a scenic journey to the coastal gem of Essaouira, a captivating city awaiting your exploration. Following a leisurely two and a half-hour drive, you’ll arrive in Essaouira, ready to immerse yourself in its rich tapestry of culture and history.

Begin your adventure by strolling through the labyrinthine alleys of the medina, where you’ll encounter a myriad of handicrafts crafted by skilled artisans. Known as the “City of the Wind,” Essaouira’s pristine beaches attract surfers from around the globe, adding to its vibrant energy and charm.

Despite its storied past, including a period of Portuguese occupation evident in its architectural influences, Essaouira maintains its quaint village atmosphere, steeped in centuries of history. With its characteristic blue doors and whitewashed walls, it’s no wonder that Essaouira is affectionately referred to as Morocco’s “Jewel of the Atlantic.”

During your visit, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the women’s cooperative of Argan oil, where the famous oil, renowned for its culinary, cosmetic, and medicinal properties, is extracted. Lunch will be a delightful affair, offering the chance to savor the flavors of Essaouira’s medina or sample fresh seafood at the bustling port.

Indulge in a leisurely free day to explore the vibrant city of Marrakech, uncovering its hidden treasures and immersing yourself in its rich tapestry of history and culture. Following a delicious breakfast at the riad, set out to discover the iconic landmarks and cultural gems that this enchanting city has to offer.

Begin your exploration with visits to sites of historical significance, including the majestic Koutoubia Minaret, the haunting Saadian Tombs, the opulent Palace of Bahia, and the Ben Youssef Coranic School, each offering a glimpse into Marrakech’s illustrious past.

As the morning unfolds, meander through the labyrinthine alleys of the medina, where you’ll be enthralled by the sights and sounds of artisans practicing their crafts, before arriving at the bustling Jamaa El Fna Square. Here, savor a delightful lunch at a restaurant near the square, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this lively hub of activity.

In the afternoon, retreat to the tranquil oasis of the Majorelle Gardens, a verdant paradise adorned with vibrant flora and exotic plant species. Afterwards, enjoy a brief tour of Gueliz, the modern district of Marrakech, offering a stark contrast to the ancient charm of the medina.