Escapade Marocaine de 12 Jours : Un Voyage Sur-Mesure depuis Marrakech

We’ll arrive in Merzouga before sunset. You can either ride camels or take a 4x4 vehicle deep into the Sahara Desert to watch the sunset over the towering dunes. These magnificent dunes change colour throughout the day, shifting from pink to gold, and from red to white. In the evening, enjoy an authentic Berber dinner accompanied by a performance from local Berber musicians.

Possible Activities in the Desert (Additional Cost)

① Motor sports in the desert (ATV or 4×4);

② Sandboard;

③ Visiting Berber (Amazigh) village;

④ Whole Roast Lamb Tasting;

⑤ Astronomy night.

You'll spend a romantic night in a luxurious tent under a star-studded sky.

Day 5: Merzouga - Ifrane - Fes

In the morning, we'll begin with a sunrise over the Sahara Desert before heading to the imperial city of Fes. Enjoy scenic views of the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, a stop at Morocco's largest cedar forest to see Barbary macaques, and a glimpse of the charming French-style town of Ifrane before arriving in Fes for the night.

Distance

Merzouga to Ifrane: Approx. 425 km, around 7 hours by car;

Ifrane to Fes: Approx. 65 km, around 1.5 hours by car.

Attraction: Cèdre Gouraud Forest

Cèdre Gouraud Forest is Morocco's largest cedar forest, celebrated for its dense, ancient cedar trees and picturesque landscapes. It also hosts Barbary macaques, one of the few primate species native to Africa outside the rain forest. Observing these playful and curious macaques offers a unique glimpse into the wildlife of the Atlas region. (Please remember not to touch or play with the macaques to ensure the safety and well-being of both the animals and yourself.)

Attraction: Ifrane Town

Ifrane is a charming town in the Middle Atlas region of Morocco, often referred to as "Little Switzerland" due to its alpine-style architecture and clean, picturesque streets. Known for its pleasant climate and beautiful surroundings, Ifrane boasts lush gardens, well-maintained parks, and a distinctive blend of European and Moroccan influences. It is also home to a ski field, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The town’s serene atmosphere and outdoor activities, including skiing and hiking, add to its appeal.

Overnight at a hotel in Fes

Day 6: Fes Medina Half Day Tour - Chefchaouen

Start the day with a visit to the ancient medina of Fes. As you wander through the narrow streets lined with old shops, you'll feel transported back to the medieval era, with the sounds of donkey handlers echoing through the alleys as they guide their laden animals past you. The maze of thousands of streets immerses you in the heart of this historic city.

Attraction: Bab Bou Jeloud

Bab Bou Jeloud, or "the Blue Gate", is a famous landmark in Fes, marking the entrance to the ancient medina. Built in the early 20th century, it features vibrant blue tiles on one side and green on the other, reflecting the city’s rich history. Passing through this iconic gate, you'll enter the bustling heart of Fes, filled with lively souks and historic sites.

Attraction: Chouara Tanneries

Chouara Tanneries is one of the oldest and most iconic tanneries in Fes, dating back to the 11th century. Located in the heart of the medina, this traditional tannery is famous for its vibrant dyeing vats and the centuries-old techniques used to produce high-quality leather goods. Visitors can observe the intricate process from nearby terraces, where they’ll witness the vivid colours and bustling activity that have made the Chouara Tanneries a must-see attraction in Fes.

Possible Activities (Additional Cost)

① Moroccan Tam Tam Workshop (2 Hours);

② Ceramics Workshop (2 Hours);

③ Arabic Calligraphy Workshop (1.5 Hours);

④ Fez Food Tour (3.5 Hours);

⑤ Pastry Workshop (3 Hours);

⑥ Private Family Cooking Class (5 Hours);

⑦ Moroccan Bread Making (2 Hours);

⑧ Make Couscous with Seven Vegetables

Overnight at a hotel in Fes.

Day 7: Fes - Meknes - Chefchaouen

Depart in the morning and stop at the Roman ruins of Volubilis near Meknes, with the option to explore the site. Then continue to Meknes to visit and take photos at the Bab Mansour gate. After exploring Meknes, head to Chefchaouen.

Distance

Fes to Meknes (Approx. 50 km, around 1.5 hours by car)

Meknes to Chefchaouen (Approx. 120 km, around 4 hours by car)

Attraction: Archaeological Site of Volubilis

Volubilis was a Roman city dating back to the 1st century AD. Today, it still features well-preserved structures such as the triumphal arch, theatre, white columns, and even intact streets, residential homes, brothels, and oil presses. Many mosaic murals, bronze heads, and marble statues remain, evoking the grandeur of the ancient Roman Empire.

Attraction: Bab Mansour

Bab Mansour Gate, one of Morocco’s largest surviving ancient city gates, was constructed in 1732 and completed four years after the death of Moulay Ismail. With over 300 years of history, this remarkable gate remains well-preserved. Its towering ochre-yellow facade is adorned with intricate mosaics and features an Arabic inscription at the top.

Overnight at a hotel in Chefchaouen.

Day 8: Chefchaouen Medina Day Tourr

Chefchaouen Medina is a stunning destination known for its distinctive blue-washed buildings and charming, narrow alleyways. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, this picturesque town offers a tranquil escape with a unique blend of Moroccan and Andalusian influences. On a day tour of the medina, you’ll explore vibrant markets, historic mosques, and cozy cafés, all while soaking in the serene atmosphere and breathtaking views. Chefchaouen’s captivating beauty and relaxed vibe make it a must-visit for any traveller exploring Morocco.

Overnight at a hotel in Chefchaouen.

Day 9: Chefchaouen – Tanger

Travel from Chefchaouen to Tanger, where you'll explore the legendary Cave of Hercules and the scenic Cape Spartel Lighthouse. This day offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural history, with stunning views and fascinating sites along the way.

Distance

Chefchaouen to Tanger: Approx. 112 km, around 3 hours by car.

Attraction: The Cave of Hercules

Located not far from Tangier along the Atlantic coast, this intriguing cave is locally known as the "Hercules Cave" or "African Cave." The cave is not very large, but it is remarkable because its entrance resembles the shape of the African continent, including Madagascar. This unique formation has been shaped over centuries by the relentless pounding of ocean waves against the rock. Today, the Cave of Hercules is one of Tangier's major attractions.

Attraction: Cape Spartel Lighthouse

Situated at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, twelve kilometres west of Tangier, Cape Spartel stands at an elevation of about 300 metres. It is the northernmost western point of the African continent. The lighthouse, with its towering presence, is a prominent landmark visible from a great distance. From Cape Spartel, you can see the Atlantic Ocean to the left, the Mediterranean Sea to the right, and directly face the Gibraltar Strait and Spain.

Overnight at a hotel in Tanger

Day 10: Tanger – Asilah - Rabat - Casablanca

Start your morning with a visit to the coastal town of Asilah, then continue to Rabat after lunch. Upon arrival, explore the Oudayas Kasbah, capture photos at the gates of the Royal Palace, and visit the historic Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. After the tour, drive to Casablanca and check into a hotel for the night.

Distance

Tanger to Asilah: Approx. 42 km, around 1 hour by car;

Asilah to Rabat: Approx. 213 km, around 4.5 hours by car;

Rabat to Casablanca: Approx. 91 km, around 2.5 hours by car.

Attraction: Asilah

Asilah is a coastal town in northern Morocco, situated along the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its rich history and the striking blue-and-white Mediterranean-style architecture, it has become a popular tourist destination. The town is particularly famous for its unique mural art, which attracts visitors from around the world. Asilah was founded in the 15th century, and in 1978, two local artists invited 11 artists from countries like the United States and Japan to paint murals on the city’s walls. This event sparked a lasting artistic tradition, earning Asilah the nickname "City of Art" on the Atlantic coast.

Atraction: The Oudayas Kasbah

Located in the capital city of Rabat, Morocco, this ancient fortress was built in the 12th century. The fortress boasts highly defensive walls, and inside, you'll find numerous gardens and palaces. Among them are the Andalusian Garden and the Colourful Garden, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll to soak in the rich history and deep cultural heritage. The Oudayas Kasbah is also a fantastic spot for photography. The ancient architecture, lush gardens, and captivating sea views make it a must-visit attraction for many travellers to Morocco. Notably, scenes from Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation were filmed here.

Attraction: Hassan Tower

The Hassan Tower is an incomplete minaret of a mosque that was intended to be the largest in the world during the reign of Sultan Yacoub al-Mansour in the 12th century. Standing at 44 meters, it remains a striking example of Almohad architecture, with intricate stonework and design. The mosque itself was never finished, and the tower, along with the ruins of its planned counterpart structures, now serves as a historical monument. Today, Hassan Tower is a Times New Roman of Rabat and a popular tourist destination.

Attraction: Mausoleum of Mohammed V

The Mausoleum of Mohammed V is a solemn and majestic site, with the Royal Guard at the entrance providing a striking presence.

Overnight at a hotel in Casablanca.

Day 11: Casablanca Day Tour

In the morning, start with a visit to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, an architectural marvel overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Next, stop by Rick’s Café for a photo at its iconic entrance, capturing a piece of cinematic history. Take a leisurely stroll through Mohammed V Square, also known as Pigeon Square, where you can walk around and feed the pigeons, enjoying the lively atmosphere. After lunch, head to Miami Beach Avenue to explore the vibrant area before visiting the Morocco Mall, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy various entertainment options.

Attraction: Hassan II Mosque

The Hassan II Mosque is the tallest mosque in the world and the third largest, renowned for its modernity. Situated partially over the Atlantic Ocean, it is also known as the "Mosque by the Sea." Covering an area of 14 hectares, it is surpassed in size only by the mosques in Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia. Its 210-meter-high minaret is the tallest religious structure in the world. The mosque can accommodate up to 100,000 worshippers at once. The grandeur of the mosque contrasts sharply with the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, and its white walls gleam under the sunlight, making it a sparkling gem on the ocean's edge.

Attraction: Rick’s Café