Morocco

Guided By Rainer Metzger

A truly enchanting journey through the architecture and landscapes of Morocco.

Stay in Fez, the Sahara Desert, Ait Bennhadou, the High Atlas Mountains, and Marrakech.

“The road trip of a lifetime, we’ll stay in gorgeous riads, camp under the stars in the Sahara Desert, hike in the Atlas Mountains, explore colorful souks in Marrakech, and meet some of the friendliest people in the world.” —Rainer

Morocco

14 Days & 13 Nights
15 Travelers Max
$7440
per traveler (double occupancy)
+$1600 single supplement
$1000 deposit reserves each spot

Full balance 90 days before

May 3 — 16, 2027
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Itinerary

Marrakech

This tour begins in Fez and ends in Marrakech, Morocco.

Day 1 Fez
We’ll meet to kick off the tour in our hotel’s courtyard, an oasis of lush plans, fountains, and mosaic tiles. With a local guide we’ll orient to the labyrinth that is the Fez Medina and enjoy a rooftop view over the city and a welcome to Morocco group dinner together.

Day 2 Fez
Today, head back into the Medina, known locally as Fes el Bali. Medieval Fes was one of the world's great centres of education and culture, both Islamic and Jewish. Its religious institutions and libraries are legendary, and its mosques are renowned. Your local guide will share stories of the city’s history as you walk through the twisting streets and alleyways, passing donkeys piled high with goods. Filled with historic khans, medresses and dye pits, there are stalls loaded with fruits, herbs and soups and the squawk of chickens, smells of spice and sounds of hammering copper fill the air. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the medina for a traditional mint tea in a family-owned tea house. Spend the day exploring the old city, visiting Al-Attarine Madrasa, the tanneries and the splendid Funduk Nejjarine – a beautifully restored 18th-century inn.

Day 3 Fez
This morning drive to Meknes to explore its medina’s charming streets – the old walled section of the city. There’s something particularly special about exploring this lesser-known medina as the locals go about their daily lives. Walk to the shrine of Moulay Ismail, visit the granaries and stop by a local market selling vegetables, olives and sweets. Afterwards, continue to the ruins of Volubilis. Once a provincial Roman capital, a distant outpost of the empire, the remains make an undeniably impressive sight. A local guide will show you around, provide expert knowledge and help you imagine the bustling city that once was. Later, drive back to Fes.

Day 4 To the Sahara Desert
Today, leave the intensity of the city behind for the simplicity of the High Atlas Mountains, drive through changing scenery, from barren mountainsides to fertile valleys, on the journey to Merzouga this morning which takes in the Erg Chebbi with its towering dunes up to 150 metres in height. Located at the end of a sealed road and just 20 kilometres from the Algerian border this really feels like frontier country.

Day 5 Sahara Desert, Erg Chebbi
Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Merzouga to the remote and charming village of Khemliya, nestled at the edge of the Sahara Desert. Your adventure begins with a thrilling 4x4 ride across the vast, golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, the largest sand dunes in Morocco. The journey takes you through the mesmerizing desert landscape, where the undulating sand hills stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a sense of both isolation and awe. After a short but scenic drive, you arrive at Khemliya, a small village known for its unique Gnawa culture and traditions. Here, you’ll be welcomed with warmth and hospitality, and the highlight of your visit will be a traditional local lunch. Khemliya is renowned for its delicious Madfouna, a type of stuffed bread, often described as "Saharan pizza." This delectable dish is prepared with a mix of flavorful ingredients, including spiced meat (usually lamb or chicken), vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all wrapped in dough and baked in a traditional clay oven. Paired with mint tea, it's a feast for the senses and a true taste of the desert.

Day 6 Sahara Desert, Erg Chebbi
After breakfast, get ready to go to your desert camp in the middle of the desert, ride camels into the edge of the Sahara, enjoying a spectacular panoramic view along the way. The dunes are stunning, especially as the evening light plays across them and sets off the colours. Tonight you will camp out in traditional style, with the chance to try some fantastic local cuisine while you sit around an open fire, enjoying lively music and dancing under the stars.

Day 7 To Ait Benhaddou
It’s worth getting up early to catch the sunrise before the drive to Todra Gorge, a massive trench that rises over 250 metres to form one of the most dramatic and spectacular natural sights in Morocco. Explore the towering limestone stacks on a short 45-minute walk through the sheer cliffs. Continue your journey inland for Ait Benhaddou, set off on the fabled ‘Road of 1000 Kasbahs’. Perched on a hilltop and almost unchanged since the 11th century, Ait Benhaddou is one of Morocco's most iconic sites. If you think you recognise the place, you probably do, as the town has a long list of film and TV credits, including Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones and Gladiator. Enjoy a walk through the winding streets of the old town, making your way to the top of the hill, from where you can enjoy the views across the surrounding plains.

Day 8 Imlil, Atlas Mountains
Today, Visit Taman’Art Space, an art studio and cultural centre created by a local artist. Meet with the artist and founder and talk about his methods, inspiration and process, all while sipping a cup of tea on the terrasse, surrounded by gorgeous views. After, drive along the winding roads of the High Atlas, taking in gorgeous mountain scenery, bound for the picturesque village of Imlil. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to explore the area at your own pace, relax, and soak in the serene surroundings before settling into your accommodation for the evening.

Day 9 Imlil, Atlas Mountains
Embark on a day hike from Imlil, a charming Berber village nestled in the High Atlas Mountains, guided by a local mountain expert. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and traditional terraced farms. As you ascend, you'll pass through remote villages, enjoying a glimpse into authentic Berber life, and learn about the region's rich culture and history. The hike is moderately challenging, with a mix of forest paths and mountain ridges, leading you to stunning viewpoints. Along the way, your guide will share knowledge about local flora, fauna, and traditions. The day concludes with a return to your accommodation in Imlil, where you will have a delicious dinner with a view.

Day 10 Imlil, Atlas Mountains
Today is a free day to hike, explore the village, explore local workshops of Berber crafts, join our guide to shop in the markets for dinner, or just relax in the hotel’s garden. This afternoon is a cooking class, a fun and lively experience learning about Moroccan spices, cooking, and food customs.

Day 11 To Marrakech
With a morning departure we head to Marrakech—an ancient city wrapped in European modernity and the grand finale of the trip. After checking in to our Riad, we’ll meet our local guide who will bring the magic of Marrakech to life as you set off on a walking tour of the old medina, through the bustling souks that are the lifeblood of the city. Explore tranquil courtyards filled with the scent of orange blossom and the many salons and chambers that make up Bahia Palace. Visiting an old common graveyard may not be on your list, but Saadian tombs of the 16th century Saadian Dynasty rulers laid in a beautifully designed sepulchers are something else. Look up to the finest Moorish architecture of the Mausoleum, the Hall of Twelve Columns that embraces the graves of the Sultans` family, and many other servants` tombs featured with colorful tiles in a large garden outside. We’ll stop by the Koutoubia Mosque – the inside is for Muslims only, but the famous minaret is a sight to behold. Walk back through the streets of the old medina to Djemaa el-Fna, stopping off to taste some of the marvellous freshly squeezed orange juice from a local stall – this is sure to be one of the most delicious glasses of orange juice you’ve ever tasted!

Day 12 Merrakech
Today we head to the charming “Jardins Majorelle,” a stunning garden once owned by fashion designer ,Ives Saint Laurent, full of intrigue, unique colors, and hundreds of exotic plants. Stroll softly in the garden, pass by various flora, sit by the pool, and appreciate the peaceful surrounding. We’ll visit the fantastic Berber Museum, full of stunning handcrafted works of art, tools, clothings, jewelry, and more.

Or try to cook some classic dishes on a Moroccan culinary journey in a not-for-profit Amal center. An association teaches local disadvantaged women how to cook and find a job.

Day 13 Marrakech
Today is a free day to explore more of Marrakech at your leisure. There’s still so much to explore, diving into the Medina in search of cultural treasures, great food, and shopping delights. This evening we meet on the rooftop of our riad to celebrate the tour and enjoy a lively farewell dinner together.

Day 14 Tour Over
Your trip ends today after breakfast, so you’re free to leave at any time after check out. We are happy to help arrange airport transfers and advise you on how to get to your next destination.

Itinerary details & hotels subject to change

What’s Included

Sahara desert camp

What’s Included:

  • 13 nights accommodation with full breakfast,

  • 6 dinners, 6 lunches, cooking class

  • All tour transportation

  • All tips for guides, hotels, meals, and drivers

  • Full-time services of an Arabic speaking Moroccan guide

  • All group sightseeing entrances

  • Pre-trip travel consultation with Rainer

Not Included:

  • Airfare & airport transportation

  • Activities not included with the tour

  • Hotel extras and room service

  • Extra drinks at group meals (be aware alcohol is legal but not commonly part of Moroccan culture)

  • Travel insurance

Conditions:

  • Tour itinerary and what’s included details subject to change. Future substitutions will be approximately equal or better in value.

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Fez Leather Tannery

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