Compare Morocco Culinary Tour – Savory Spices & Souks by Access Trips vs Morocco Adventure: Culture & Colour by G Adventures

Day 1

Welcome to our Morocco cooking tour! Prepare yourself for one of the most fascinating, colorful and culture-rich countries on the planet. Also prepare for some of the world’s best food! We will pick you up at Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport and drive you to our comfortable 4-star hotel conveniently located in the center of Casablanca. If your flight arrives before dinner, you’ll get your first taste of delicious Moroccan cuisine at one of Casablanca’s popular restaurants.

Drive time: 45 minutes

Day 2

Meals: Breakfast

Casablanca is the most cosmopolitan of all Moroccan cities, a vibrant economic hub with the largest port in the Maghreb. After breakfast at our hotel we’ll set off to visit the highlight of this modern city: the majestic Hassan II Mosque, the third largest religious monument in the world, and the only mosque in Morocco that non-Muslims are permitted to enter. After our mosque tour we’ll head out of town, embarking on a scenic 5-6 hour drive through the countryside to Essaouira. We’ll stop for lunch along the way and arrive in Essaouira in the early evening. We’ll spend the night in an exquisite ocean-view riad.

Drive time: approximately 5-6 hours, not including stops

Day 3

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

You’ll wake up in the charming fishing town of Essaouira, with its relaxed and artistic vibe. Today we’ll explore the town’s impressive medina, whose massive ancient fortifications are a mixture of Portuguese, French and Berber architecture overlooking the emerald sea. Next we’ll enjoy a spectacular seaside lunch, where freshly caught fish is grilled to perfection before your eyes. Top it off with famous Moroccan mint tea and delectable French pastries at one Essaouira’s many cafes. In the late afternoon you’ll experience your first cooking class, where you’ll prepare a fresh Moroccan chopped salad and fish tajine using the fresh catch of the day. And then you’ll enjoy the scrumptious meal you just created!

Day 4

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

This morning you can awake at your leisure and spend the morning strolling through Essaouira’s serene squares, browsing artisan workshops and perusing art galleries. Or, perhaps you’d like to experience a camel ride on the beach! After lunch, we will take a three and a half hour drive to the Berber village of Anrar, in the High Atlas mountains, stopping along the way to tour an argan oil cooperative. The charming and incredibly hospitable riad Kasbah Omar will be our home for the next three days.

Drive time: approximately 3.5 hours, not including stops

Day 5

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

After a delicious Berber breakfast, we will head to the souk lath nine the traditional Monday market where Berber villagers from throughout the valley come to trade. We will walk with our donkey on a trail for about 45 – 60 minutes through the olive and fruit groves, along the Ourika river, stopping for a quick visit to the local school to pass out school supplies. At the souk we’ll select organic vegetables, meat and chicken-everything we need for our cooking classes at the kasbah. We’ll head back to the kasbah with our groceries loaded onto our donkey, just in time for a delicious Berber barbeque lunch. The afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy the kasbah. In the late afternoon we’ll have our next cooking workshop, where we cook (and eat!) Berber salads and pastilla, a Moroccan delicacy that combines flaky pastry, savory meat and sweet spices.

Day 6

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

This morning we’ll have a brief cooking class to make our delicious breakfast of Berber crepes. After breakfast, we’ll see Berber village life amidst the stunning backdrop of the High Atlas, as we walk through the village of Anrar, stopping for tea with a local Berber family. Afterwards, you might like a relaxing afternoon and lunch at the kasbah. Or, you may choose to head to the village of Setti Fatma where you can either do a 3 hour moderate to strenuous hike up to a waterfall or, if the weather permits, you could rest at one of the many lounge-cafes built into the mountainside until the hikers return. We’ll drive back to the kasbah for a late afternoon cooking class, where we’ll learn to prepare Moroccan soup and traditional couscous, just in time for dinner.

Drive time: 1.5 hours (for those opting to visit Setti Fatma)

Day 7

Meals: Breakfast

Today we take a short drive to exotic and mystical Marrakech, an enchanting palm oasis set against the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas mountains. We’ll visit the Bahia Palace with its expansive harem quarters. Next we’ll enter the ancient royal Saadian Tombs, and then explore the vibrant and historic Jewish mellah (quarter) and the majestic Koutoubia Mosque before entering the 9th century walled medina. As we explore the medina, we’ll stop at Ben Youssef Madrasa, a historic Koran school, and wind our way through the serpentine labyrinth of the ancient bustling souk, where we’ll see Moroccan craftsmanship at its finest. In the late afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to shop as we visit local artisan co-ops and learn about traditional Moroccan crafts. For those not interested in shopping, you may choose to explore Djemaa el-Fna sqaure on your own, perhaps enjoy a cup of tea at a roof top cafe, or relax by the pool at the riad.

In the evening, thrill in the magic that emerges from heart of the famed square, Djemaa el-Fna. Mystical snake charmers, hustlers and mischievous monkeys are part of the nightly drama that unfolds, as Berber acrobats, fortune tellers, musicians and engaging storytellers seduce rapt crowds.

Accommodation tonight is at our charming riad inside the Marrakech medina.

Drive time: 1 hour

Day 8

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we’ll take a tour around the ancient city wall and palm grove, including a visit to the Yves St. Laurent gardens. We’ll also head to a spice shop for some information on the various spices that we have been using and may want to take home with us. After lunch, enjoy a relaxed afternoon to explore the imperial city of Marrakech at your leisure, perhaps as you people-watch at Djemaa el-Fna and pick up some local souvenirs. Or you may like to experience a traditional Moroccan hamman, or hot bath. In the late afternoon, we will have our final cooking class. Our farewell dinner tonight is at our riad, where we enjoy our own delicious Moroccan creations of beef with prunes and almonds, and lemon chicken.

Drive time: approximately 1 hour

Day 9

Our Moroccan cooking tour ends today as you transfer to the airport for your return home. Depending on your flight plans, we will either drop you off at the Marrakech airport or arrange for a private car transfer to Casablanca’s airport

Drive time: 15 – 20 minutes (to Marrakech airport)

Day 1 Casablanca

Arrive at any time. Get excited for your first night out with your fellow travellers. Take to the streets in the heart of Casablanca and hit up one of your CEO’s favourite local spots. Enjoy connecting with your fellow travellers while getting to know Casablanca. Your first night out is just that – the first of many and a perfect way to set the tone for the rest of your grand adventure.

You may wish to come a day early in order to explore Casablanca by day, and take some time to see its medina, beachfront, and classic examples of Art Deco architecture. Be sure to also visit the spectacular Hassan II Mosque. Entrance is only permitted via guided tours, which operate from Saturday to Thursday at 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, and 15:00, and on Fridays at 9:00, 10:00, and 15:00. These times are subject to change (particularly around Ramadan), please double check times with your hotel. Tickets can be purchased at the mosque.

Day 2 Casablanca/Chefchaouen

With a good night's sleep behind you, set out from Casablanca. With the bright blue waters of the Atlantic to your left and the sun drenched wonders of Morocco to your right, travel up the coast to Morocco's capital city, Rabat. Stretch your legs as you wander the ramparts and colourful alleys of the city's old quarter. Take in breathtaking views from Kasbah des Oudaias, then indulge in lunch. After you've eaten the hangry away, continue toward Chefchaouen. Here, beneath the soaring Rif mountains, feeling the blues takes on a different meaning. Take an orientation walk through the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen before settling in for the night.

Day 3 Chefchaouen

Hoping for free time to explore all Chefchaouen has to offer? Wish granted! Spend your day taking in the splendor of the city and it's surrounding geography. If the (Rif) Mountains are calling, you should definitely answer. Opt to pre-book the Rif Valley Mountains Hike. Or, opt to visit the Spanish Mosque for breathtaking sunset views of the city.

Day 4 Chefchaouen/Fès

Fès awaits! Upon arrival, put your free time to good use by visiting an Amazigh (or Berber) pharmacy (a far cry from the kind of pharmacy you may be used to at home). Wander the many mazes of Fès's colourful, ancient tanneries.

Day 5 Fès

With so much to see, another free day in Fès is always a good idea. Breathe in decadent spices (oxygen is for the weak anyway, right?) as you sample treats from the many food carts scattered throughout the medina. Explore the artisan quarters as you take in the city that is often referred to as the cultural heart of Morocco.

Only certified local guides are allowed to act as guides in the medina, so your CEO cannot go with you to the medina during free time.

Day 6 Fès/Marrakech

After getting back on the road and watching the scenery roll by, arrive in vibrant, bustling Marrakech. Spend the evening exploring the gardens, souks, and other wonders of Marrakech.

Day 7 Marrakech

Take advantage of more free time in Marrakech to wander the Djeema el Fna square in the heart of the medina. Try to keep up with the ever-changing market as it switches up its offerings throughout the day. In the evening, welcome new friends to the group and join your CEO and fellow travellers for a night out on the town. Cheers to the next several days of making memories!

Day 8 Marrakech/Todra Gorge

Depart Marrakech and gaze out the window as the city gives way to rocky hills and terracotta villages. Disembark upon arrival in Tinghir and get in touch with Morocco's Mediterranean flora during a walk through palm groves. Then, fly to Mars. Just kidding. Head into Todra Gorge (might as well be Mars, though, with how other-worldly your surroundings will feel here). Fall asleep beneath sheer cliff walls to the sound of a gurgling river and the wind catching in the palm trees.

Day 9 Todra Gorge/Merzouga

Journey into the vast, golden reaches of the desert. Mint tea and a warm welcome await you at your dune-side hotel. Saddle up and travel by camel to the perfect perch atop the dunes to view the sunset paint the sky hues of red, blue, and yellow. After, under a canopy of stars, enjoy dinner and an evening of entertainment by the campfire. Let your imagination run wild as you listen to traditional music on the drums alongside stories about the region. We dare you to top this campfire experience.

Opt to spend time further exploring the undulating golden sand of the dunes, and discovering the surrounding communities on a land cruiser desert excursion. You can pre-book this optional excursion when booking your tour.

Day 10 Merzouga/Aït Ben Haddou

We know you've officially fallen in love with desert life, but it's time to kiss your camel goodbye. Rise early for the sunrise, then travel along the Route of 1000 Kasbahs to Ait Ben Haddou, one of the most iconic and beautiful kasbahs and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 11 Aït Ben Haddou/Aroumd (Aremd)

Ready to gain some elevation? Head into the magnificent High Atlas Mountains and cross the Tizi n'Tichka pass (at 2260 m) before heading into Toubkal National Park. Take to the winding roads like a pro and gaze out the windows as small villages wiz by. Upon arrival at the small village of Imlil, strap on your hiking shoes and embark on a 1 hour hike from Imlil to the quaint mountain village of Aroumd (Aremd). Bask in the jaw-dropping elements — the sweet mountain air and the proximity to the jagged mountain peaks. Cozy up in your mountain gîte after a homeade dinner of local produce in the salon.

Accommodation is multi-share, up to six beds in each room. Bedding is provided, but you will need to bring a sleeping bag for additional warmth if travelling between November and April. You will also need to bring your own towel. Bathroom facilities are shared.

Day 12 Aroumd (Aremd)/Marrakech

Begin the day by hiking back to Imlil and beginning your journey to the "Red City," Marrakech. Unlock the many secrets this ancient city has to offer in its mazelike alleys, ornate palaces, and lush gardens. When the heat of the day gets to you, relax at one of the many tea houses situated on the buzzing square (best people watching guaranteed). Opt to visit the stunning Musée de Marrakech, explore the ruins of El Badi Palace, or wander through Jardins Majorelle — a sprawling botanical garden developed over the span of forty years. End the day like a local with an optional group dinner in the famous food stalls of Djemaa el Fna.

Day 13 Marrakech

Take advantage of more free time in Marrakech to wander the souks and discover the best cup of mint tea the city has to offer. In the evening, welcome new friends to the group and join your CEO and fellow travellers for a night out on the town. Raise your glasses to many more days of making memories!

Day 14 Marrakech/Taghazout

This afternoon we make our way through the High Atlas Mountains and visit the market town of Taroudant. Concealed within striking red walls, Taroudant is often called “Little Marrakech.” Wander through the old town at leisure and browse its lively markets before continuing on to the fishing village of Taghazout.

Opt to get up early and catch the sunrise over Marrakech by pre-booking the Hot Air Balloon excursion.

Day 15 Taghazout

Wake to the soft tones of waves crashing along the shoreline, then suit up for a surf lesson. Hit the waves for a free afternoon of surfing or swimming. Prefer land surfing? Opt to go hiking or do yoga. After a day of embracing your wild side, what could be more fitting than gathering around a bonfire on the beach as the sun kisses the horizon goodnight?

Day 16 Taghazout/Essaouira

Take coastal living northward to colourful, sun-drenched Essaouira. After an orientation walk around the city, enjoy free time to get to know the ramparts and rocky beaches of Essaouira further. No rest for the weary? Not true here — opt to pre-book the Traditional Hammam Experience and enjoy a spa experience that is ritual for the many of the locals.

Day 17 Essaouira/Marrakech

Hit the road one final time and return to Marrakech. Even though your trip ends on arrival, make sure you take the time to take plenty of photos with newfound friends to commemorate the memories made. (Morocco scrapbook, anyone?)

This tour will end upon arrival in Marrakech at approximately 12pm. We suggest booking any onward travel after 4pm.