Morocco Grand Tour

On the second day of your 15 days in Morocco tour, you will travel to Rabat, the political and administrative center of Morocco, where the Royal Palaces, government institutions, and international embassies are located. Rabat’s architecture is a testament to its centuries-old rich history.

Admire the masterful architecture of the Mohammed V Mausoleum and visit the UNESCO-listed Hassan Tower, the official Royal Palace of the King of Morocco, and the UNESCO-listed Oudaya Kasbah. Visiting these monuments is a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the true value of traditional Moroccan art.

Travel along the magnificent Atlantic coast to visit the town of Asilah and the stunning city of Tangier in the extreme northwest of Africa.

Explore Asilah, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved old towns in Morocco and a charming stop on your journey. Discover the beauty of its ancient architecture, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Visit the Medina along the sea walls and admire this charming historic area enclosed by well-preserved 15th-century ramparts and gates built by the Portuguese.

Head to a local restaurant where you can taste one of the seafood specialties for which Asilah is known.

Drive to Tangier and explore the highlights of this beautiful city and its surroundings, including the old Medina, which is over 2,000 years old, and Cap Spartel, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea and offers exceptional views of both the Strait of Gibraltar and the Atlantic Ocean.

Visit the legendary archaeological Caves of Hercules. Greek legend claims that when Hercules, the god of war and strength in ancient Greek mythology, needed a place to rest between two of his labors, he swam across the Strait of Gibraltar and shaped the cave from the side of the cliff with his hands, creating a form resembling the African continent.

You will also have the opportunity to visit the Grand Socco plaza, where several small hotels once accommodated famous artists and writers such as Paul Bowles, Henri Matisse, and Camille Saint-Saëns.

Check into your accommodation and enjoy the afternoon at leisure to relax and recover from your journey.

(Overnight in Tangier)

After breakfast, you will travel through the stunning Rif Mountains towards the enchanting city of Chefchaouen, often called the Blue Pearl of Morocco. This is one of the highlights of your Morocco grand tour, offering beautiful mountain scenery and the chance to discover one of the country’s most photogenic destinations.

Set high in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen has a charm unlike anywhere else in Morocco. Its famous blue-painted streets, blue houses, whitewashed buildings, and peaceful setting create a dreamlike atmosphere. As you wander through its narrow alleys, you will quickly see why so many travelers consider it one of the most beautiful towns in the world.

Together with your expert local guide, you will explore the town’s rich history and culture. Founded in the 15th century, Chefchaouen became a refuge for Jewish and Muslim communities fleeing the Spanish Inquisition. Their Andalusian influence can still be seen today in the town’s architecture, traditions, and way of life.

During your visit, you will discover some of the town’s most famous landmarks, including the Ras El Maa Spring, the Kasbah Museum, the Spanish Mosque, Plaza Uta el-Hammam, and the blue-washed medina with its charming little souks.

Chefchaouen remained isolated from the outside world until the early 20th century, which is why it has kept so much of its authentic character and Moorish charm. Compared to the imperial cities and desert landscapes, it offers a slower pace, a relaxed mood, and endless photo opportunities.

(Overnight in Chefchaouen)

On day 4 of this 15 day grand tour of Morocco, you will leave the beautiful Chefchaouen and head south through the stunning Rif Mountains towards the Roman ruins of Volubilis, where you will enjoy a guided walking tour of the site.

Morocco has one of the richest histories in the world, shaped by centuries of different rulers, including the Romans. At Volubilis, you will explore one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities in North Africa. The settlement dates back to the 3rd century BC and later became an important administrative centre of the Roman province of Mauretania Tingitana, where it grew wealthy and prosperous.

Among the most impressive remains are the grand villas with their water tanks, courtyards, and beautiful mosaic floors, as well as the basilica and the famous Triumphal Arch, built in 217 AD. Volubilis was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1997.

Next, you will travel to the imperial city of Meknes. Here you will see the magnificent 18th-century Bab Mansour gate, one of the most beautiful gates in North Africa, along with El Hedim Square, the royal stables, and the impressive Souani Basin. You will also visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, Sultan of Morocco from 1672 to 1727, and learn about his remarkable life and lasting achievements.

Your journey then continues to the ancient and vibrant city of Fes, a UNESCO-listed imperial city often called the Mecca of the West or the Athens of Africa, and known as Morocco’s capital of knowledge and culture.

Fes is the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities and one of the most enchanting places you will visit on your 15 day tour from Casablanca. It is famous for the colourful Fes El Bali walled medina, its Marinid architecture, lively souks, the celebrated Fes mosaic tilework, and its timeless old-world charm.

(Overnight in Fes)

After a delicious Moroccan breakfast in your charming riad, you will spend day 5 of your Morocco grand tour exploring the magnificent city of Fes with your expert local guide. This experience offers a deep dive into the city’s rich history, culture, and traditions. As you explore, you will discover why Fes is often called the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco.

As you explore this UNESCO-listed Imperial city, each stop along the way will enrich your journey with history, culture, and breathtaking sights.

• Bab Boujloud (The Blue Gate): Begin your journey at this 12th-century gateway, a masterpiece of Andalusian and Moroccan craftsmanship, adorned with blue tiles on one side and green tiles on the other, symbolizing the city’s religious and cultural significance.
• Mellah (Jewish Quarter): Stroll through the historic Mellah, Morocco’s oldest Jewish quarter, built near the Royal Palace in 1438 to offer protection for the Jewish community. The area is known for its unique balconies, wooden architecture, and centuries-old synagogues.
• Dar el Makhzen (Royal Palace of Fes): Marvel at the largest royal palace in Morocco, famous for its seven grand golden doors, intricately designed with marble, copper, and mesmerizing mosaics. Though the interior is closed to visitors, its stunning façade is a must-see.
• Chouara Tannery: Step back in time at the 11th-century Chouara tannery, the oldest leather tannery in the world. Witness the traditional leather-dyeing process, where artisans use natural dyes and original age-old techniques to produce Morocco’s finest leather goods.
• Borj Sud: Enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Fes from this ancient fortress, offering a spectacular vantage point over the labyrinth-like Medina. This viewpoint provides a stunning perspective of the UNESCO-listed city.
• Fes Pottery Cooperative: Visit a traditional pottery factory, where artisans craft intricate ceramics and mosaics that adorn half of Morocco. Observe the delicate craftsmanship of Fassi pottery, a legacy passed down for generations.
• University of Al-Qarawiyyin: Discover the world’s oldest continuously operating university, founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri. Recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records, this historic educational institution has played a crucial role in shaping Morocco’s intellectual and spiritual landscape.
• Bou Inania Madrasa (14th Century Religious School): Admire this architectural masterpiece of the Marinid Dynasty, with its intricate cedarwood carvings, marble floors, and geometric tilework.
• Lunch in the Medina: Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at an authentic local restaurant, where you can savor classic Fassi dishes, known for their rich flavors and aromatic spices.
• Moulay Idriss Mausoleum: Visit the final resting place of Moulay Idriss II, founder of Fes and one of Morocco’s most revered historical figures. This sacred site holds great cultural and spiritual significance.
• Madrasa Al-Attarine: A magnificent 14th-century school adorned with ornate tilework, zellij patterns, and beautifully carved cedar wood.

While navigating the narrow alleyways, your expert local guide will provide in-depth insights into Moroccan history, Berber traditions, and the cultural significance of Fes. This full day city tour of Fes is without doubt one of the highlights of this 15 days in Morocco itinerary. A truly unique experience that allows you to step back in time and witness the living history of Morocco’s most fascinating city.

(Overnight in Fes)

Today you will begin your journey towards the legendary Sahara Desert, the largest hot desert in the world, where golden dunes stretch endlessly under the sun. This visit to the Sahara is sure to be one of the highlights of your Morocco 15 day tour.

Your first stop is Ifrane, a charming mountain town known as the Little Switzerland of Morocco. Take a short break here to enjoy its clean streets, green parks, and beautiful scenery. It is often listed among the cleanest cities in the world and is one of the prettiest stops along the way.

From here, you will travel through the green Middle Atlas Mountains, home to the largest cedar forests in Morocco, where you may spot playful Barbary apes among the trees. This species is found only in Morocco, Algeria, and Gibraltar.

You will stop for lunch in the town of Midelt, set between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, where you can enjoy a traditional Moroccan tajine. The drive then continues through the striking Ziz Valley, often called the Moroccan Grand Canyon, home to one of the largest palm groves in Morocco, where a sea of palms stretches between dramatic ancient cliffs.

By late afternoon, you will arrive at the magnificent dunes of Erg Chebbi, the gateway to the great Sahara desert and home to some of the tallest dunes in the country. Here you will meet your camel and guide and set off on an unforgettable ride across the golden sands, deep into the desert as the evening light begins to fall.

You will reach your desert camp just in time to watch the sun set over the dunes. Spend the evening around the campfire enjoying a delicious dinner and traditional Berber music, while the Milky Way and millions of stars light up the desert sky above you.

(Overnight in a Sahara desert camp)

This morning, you may wish to climb the dunes and watch a spectacular sunrise over the Sahara Desert, followed by a traditional Berber breakfast.

For many travelers spending 15 days in Morocco, a full day in the Sahara is a wonderful chance to discover the culture, landscapes, and daily life of the people who call the desert home.

You can begin the day with an optional quad biking excursion across the dunes. Feel the thrill of riding over the golden sands and wide open spaces, stopping along the way to enjoy the silence and beauty of the desert. A professional guide will accompany you throughout the experience to ensure your safety.

Explore the Berber farms and fields of the desert town of Merzouga and marvel at the ingenious underground irrigation system that provides water for family agriculture and the region’s spectacular date palms.

Continue to Dayet Srji, also known as Flamingo Lake. In spring, this seasonal lake attracts many birds, including greater flamingos, desert warblers, and falcons. With a little luck, you may also spot desert foxes, hedgehogs, and lizards nearby.

Enjoy a tasty lunch of Berber pizza, a local specialty of Merzouga.

Visit the Black Village of Khamlia, a small village with a big story. Located at the foothills of the Merzouga dunes, at the gateway to the great Sahara Desert, Khamlia is home to Black African and Berber families who have preserved a unique cultural heritage for generations.

For centuries, people from Sub-Saharan Africa, including regions that are now Sudan, Mali, Niger, and Senegal, were brought across the Sahara to Morocco as part of the trans-Saharan slave trade. During these difficult journeys, music and rhythmic chanting became an important source of comfort and resilience.

Today, many of Khamlia’s residents are descendants of these communities. During your visit, you will stop at a local Gnawa music association, where you will be welcomed with a cup of tea and treated to a live performance of traditional Gnawa music, a unique musical heritage passed down through generations and preserved from its Sub-Saharan African roots. Performed with rhythmic chants and traditional instruments, this captivating music remains an important part of Khamlia’s cultural identity.

You will also visit a nomadic Berber family, where you can share a cup of tea and discover their traditional way of life. Learn about their customs, their daily routines, and how they have adapted to life in the harsh yet beautiful Sahara.

Later, head back to your riad or hotel beside the dunes to relax or take a swim at your leisure.

This authentic day in the Sahara is one of the highlights of the 15 day tour, offering a deeper connection with the people, culture, and landscapes of the desert.

(Overnight in the Sahara)

After two memorable nights in the spectacular sand sea dunes of the Sahara, you will depart for the city of Erfoud, known for its marble, its dates, and as a global hub for fossil stones. It is famous for its incredible fossil beds, including fascinating marine fossils such as coiled goniatites, orthoceras, and trilobites, which date back hundreds of millions of years. An intriguing visit to a fossil museum is possible, where you can see some of these ancient specimens.

After leaving Erfoud, you will drive towards the famous Todgha Gorge, near the town of Tinghir. On the way, enjoy scenic panoramic views of the old Jewish and Berber mud villages overlooking the Todgha Valley.

The Todgha Gorge is one of the most beautiful canyons in Morocco. Tall red cliffs rise up to 400 metres on both sides of a narrow river, which slowly carved the rock over thousands of years. Today the gorge is famous around the world and a favourite spot for rock climbers and photographers. You will have some free time to walk along the river, enjoy the cool air, and take in the views.

In this area lives a large community of Berber nomads. Sometimes you may see Berber nomad women with traditional tattoos on their faces, herding their goats to drink at the river’s edge or collecting water that their mules carry back to the caves where they live.

After lunch, you will continue towards one of the most beautiful valleys in the Kingdom and enjoy the colourful Berber mud villages overlooking the amazing Dades Valley. Drive along the spectacular valley to discover the remarkable rock formations known as “monkey toes” or “monkey fingers.” These extraordinary shapes are sandstone formations that have been slowly eroded over thousands of years by rain, water, and wind.

The Dades Valley prides itself on its production of roses, walnuts, and groves of palm and almond trees. Once the site of ancient nomad crossings, the valley is dotted with oases and mud brick palaces known as kasbahs, which give the area its famous name, the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs.

Arrive at your riad or hotel in the late afternoon and spend the night in one of Morocco’s most beautiful valleys.

(Overnight in the Dades Valley)

After breakfast and a relaxing night in the heart of the beautiful Dades Valley, journey towards the Valley of Roses and the town of Kalaat M’Gouna, known as the Rose Capital of Morocco. The town is famous for its Damask roses, which are harvested every spring. Each year in May, the famous Rose Festival takes place, celebrating the harvest and crowning Miss Rose of Morocco.

Continue through the famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing by traditional Berber mud-brick villages and ancient earth castles, before reaching the peaceful Oasis of Skoura. This beautiful oasis is known for its many historic kasbahs, including the impressive 17th-century Kasbah of Amridil. This ancient fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional life in southern Morocco.

Kasbah Amridil was founded more than 300 years ago and remains largely unchanged today. It is one of Morocco’s living museums and the ancestral home of the Nasiri family. The present generation of the family still lives on site and continues to preserve this historic kasbah. Inside, you can discover a small museum displaying ancient Moroccan artifacts and traditional objects.

In ancient times, Skoura oasis was an important stop for camel caravans carrying gold, spices, salt, and other goods after long journeys across the desert from several sub-Saharan countries, including Mali, Senegal, Ghana, and Sudan.

Continue your journey to the city of Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa” and the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Located on the former gold and salt trade routes at the eastern foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, Ouarzazate was once an important caravan town. Depending on your schedule, there may be time for photo stops or a visit to one of the famous cinema studios, for which the city is known.

Later, visit the spectacular UNESCO-listed Ksar Aït Benhaddou, one of Morocco’s most iconic destinations and one of Africa’s most famous filming locations. Enjoy a walking visit through this ancient fortified village, which was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Built with red earth, Aït Benhaddou is one of the most impressive examples of traditional Moroccan architecture and was once an important stop along the ancient camel caravan routes crossing the desert.

Once a major trading hub for trans-Saharan caravans, Aït Benhaddou has also been the backdrop for many international movies and TV productions, including Gladiator, Game of Thrones, Prince of Persia, Indiana Jones, Kingdom of Heaven, and many more. This iconic destination is a highlight of your 15 day tour from Casablanca, combining history, culture, and cinematic landscapes.

(Overnight in Ouarzazate)

Leaving Ouarzazate after breakfast, you will head towards Taznakht, a town well known for its classic Moroccan Berber rugs and for the beautiful landscapes of the Anti Atlas Mountains.

From there, you will continue through the Anti Atlas Mountains towards Taliouine, a small town renowned for producing some of the finest saffron in the world. Every November, the town holds the International Saffron Festival to celebrate the harvest.

Next, you will reach Taroudant, a historic walled city in the Sous Valley dating back to the 16th century. Taroudant is often called the “Grandmother of Marrakech” because it feels like Marrakech, only smaller and calmer. The town is surrounded by ramparts that stretch over 8 kilometres and rise to about 9 metres in height. These walls are widely considered to be the largest of their kind in Africa and the third largest in the world, after the Great Wall of China and the archaeological walls of Kumbhalgarh in India.

The walls are lined with bastions and pierced by nine historic gates that are still used today. Much of Taroudant’s historic centre still sits within its original walls, giving the town a contained, old-world feel. The town is also known for local crafts such as jewellery and carpets. Centuries ago, Taroudant was an important trading centre for goods such as sugar cane, cotton, rice, and indigo.

After lunch, your Morocco grand tour continues to Agadir, the most visited coastal city in southern Morocco.

Agadir is known for its pristine beaches, a relaxed seaside lifestyle, a touch of European charm, and the historic Agadir Oufella ruins above the city. It is a dream destination for surfers and sun seekers alike, with magnificent beaches stretching over 90 kilometres and nearly 300 days of sunshine a year. The city also offers a number of interesting historical and natural sites to explore.

You will visit Crocoparc, the only crocodile park in Morocco. It is home to 325 Nile crocodiles, along with giant tortoises, green iguanas, giant pythons, anacondas, and marmosets, all set within a lovely botanical garden.

Later, you will visit Kasbah Agadir Oufella, a historic fortress perched on a hill above the city. Built in 1540 to protect Agadir from Portuguese invasions, the kasbah has watched over the city for centuries and remains one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Today, visitors can walk along its restored ramparts and gates while taking in breathtaking views. From this point, you can enjoy glorious sunsets along with panoramic views of Agadir and the Atlantic Ocean.

(Overnight in Agadir)

After a seaside lunch in the beautiful city of Agadir, your 15 day tour from Casablanca continues along the stunning Atlantic coast towards the charming port city of Essaouira. Known as the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” Essaouira is famous for its beautiful beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and UNESCO-listed medina.

On the way, you will pass through the largest argan forest in Morocco, the only region in the world where the argan tree grows naturally. You will stop to visit a women’s cooperative, where you can see the traditional process of extracting the famous argan oil, often called Morocco’s liquid gold. Keep your eyes open along the way for the famous tree-climbing goats, one of Morocco’s most unusual sights.

In Essaouira, you will explore the city’s most important landmarks, including the old fish market and seaport. Watch silver craftsmen and wood carvers at work in the old medina, where narrow streets are lined with heavy wooden doors and whitewashed houses. Discover the 18th-century ramparts, from where you will enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean stretching out before you.

Wander through the souks, traditional workshops, and art galleries of the ancient medina, enjoying every moment of this charming coastal city.

End the day with a walk along one of Morocco’s most beautiful beaches, dipping your toes into the Atlantic Ocean and enjoying the fresh sea breeze. Optional activities along the beach include kitesurfing, horse riding, ATV quad biking, and camel riding.

(Overnight in Essaouira)

Essaouira is a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, majestic sunsets, and argan trees. With fresh seafood, lively local markets, and a charming beach to relax on, it is one of the most laid-back stops on your journey through Morocco. Despite its small size, Essaouira has a thriving tourism and fishing economy and remains a popular destination for visitors from around the world.

This morning, your expert local guide will take you on a half day walking tour through the historic, UNESCO-listed medina of Essaouira. You will begin at the Skala du Port, the old working fortification overlooking the harbour, where fishermen still bring in their catch each morning just as they have for centuries. From here, you will continue into the Mellah, the city’s historic Jewish quarter, once home to a thriving community of merchants and craftsmen who helped make Essaouira one of Morocco’s most important trading ports.

You will then visit a traditional thuya wood workshop, where skilled local craftsmen carve this rare, fragrant wood, found almost nowhere else in the world, into beautifully detailed boxes, chess sets, and furniture.

You will also visit Moulay Hassan Square, the lively heart of the city, before enjoying lunch at one of the local restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood straight from the Atlantic.

In the afternoon, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy freely. You may wish to relax on the beach, try kitesurfing or horse riding, browse the souks at your own pace, or simply enjoy a coffee while watching the sunset over the Atlantic.

(Overnight in Essaouira)

After breakfast, you will leave the charming coastal town of Essaouira and travel inland towards Marrakech, the vibrant Red City and one of the most famous destinations in all of Morocco. The drive takes you through green countryside dotted with argan trees and olive groves, before arriving in the lively city of Marrakech, one of the most exciting destinations on your Morocco grand tour. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a guided city tour, discovering the history and culture that have made this city famous for centuries.

Your expert local guide will lead you through the UNESCO World Heritage listed, ancient-walled medina, founded in 1070 AD by the Almoravid dynasty. Marrakech has been home to the Berbers, the indigenous people of North Africa, whose presence in the region dates back to more than 1700 BC.

• Explore the world famous UNESCO-listed Jemaa el Fna plaza, listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, in the heart of Marrakech, a destination of pure magic and a symbol of the ochre tinged city where you will find a truly unique atmosphere of snake charmers, storytellers, traditional musicians and Marrakech’s legendary souks, to mention just a few.
• Visit the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque, the largest in Marrakech, and its 77 metre high minaret. It was completed during the reign of the Berber Almohad caliph Yaqub al-Mansour (1184-1199), and inspired other buildings such as the Giralda of Seville and the Hassan Tower of Rabat. Local laws restrict any new building projects from exceeding the height of the minaret, providing a focal point for all to enjoy.
• Visit Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan and Andalusian architecture and a major monument of Morocco’s heritage. This 19th-century palace was built by Ba Ahmed, the grand vizier of Marrakech, and named after his favourite wife Bahia. Craftsmen worked on this palace for fourteen years.
• Visit Ben Youssef Madrasa, a 14th-century school founded by the Moroccan Monarch Abu el Hassan, another beautiful example of Moroccan and Andalusian architecture. The Saadian dynasty enlarged and redecorated the building in 1570 and it became the largest Islamic college in North Africa.
• Explore the historic Mellah, Marrakech’s old Jewish quarter. This charming neighborhood reflects the long history of the Jewish community in the city and the peaceful coexistence that existed for centuries between Jewish and Muslim residents. Its narrow streets and traditional homes offer a unique glimpse into this shared cultural heritage.
• Visit the Saadian Tombs, a major attraction for visitors of Marrakech and one of the few remaining vestiges of the Saadian dynasty, who reigned over the golden age of Marrakech between 1524 and 1659. Remarkably, these tombs were rediscovered in 1917 after being sealed for centuries by Sultan Moulay Ismail, making them one of the most fascinating historical discoveries in Morocco.
• Visit the Majorelle Garden, designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle in 1923 and later restored by the iconic designer Yves Saint Laurent, a haven of tranquillity amidst the vibrant city of Marrakech. You will also explore the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, where you will discover the life, artistic work, and lasting legacy of this legendary fashion icon, whose love for Morocco and Marrakech inspired some of his most iconic creations.

(Overnight in Marrakech)

This is a free day to relax, unwind, or explore Marrakech at your own pace. You might visit museums and gardens, wander the souks, treat yourself to a traditional hammam and spa experience, or simply enjoy some well-deserved rest by your riad’s pool or a relaxed stroll through the medina’s quieter corners and charming cafés.

In the evening, enjoy the sunset from a rooftop café overlooking the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, and watch Marrakech come alive below. Snake charmers play their flutes, storytellers gather small crowds, drummers fill the air with rhythm, and the smoke from grilled kebabs drifts up to greet you, a wonderful way to spend your final evening in Marrakech.

(Overnight in Marrakech)

After breakfast, it is time to say goodbye to Morocco as your unforgettable journey comes to an end.

If your flight departs from Marrakech, you will be transferred directly to Marrakech Menara Airport in time for your departure.

If your flight departs from Casablanca, you will be transferred to Mohammed V International Airport for your flight home.

Your 15 day Morocco tour may be ending, but something stays with you, the echo of call to prayer drifting over ancient medinas, the kindness of strangers who became friends, and a deep respect for a culture shaped by centuries of history. Morocco does not simply leave your memory. It leaves a mark on your heart.