Compare Highlights of Morocco - In Comfort by Exodus Travels vs Best of Morocco by Firebird Tours

Day 1 Start Marrakech

Welcome to the Red City, a pulsating destination moving at a frenetic pace. Our riad, however, is a pocket of peace with a central pool (ideal for a post-flight dip) and relaxed air. Depending on your arrival time, you can either rejuvenate at the accommodation or start exploring Marrakech. Jemaa el-Fna, the busy food stall-filled central square, is a five-minute walk away. There will be a welcome briefing at the riad this evening or tomorrow morning, depending on when most of the group arrives. Accommodation: Riad Tresor de Marrakech or Riad El Habib (or similar)

Day 2 Visit Hassan II Mosque; to the capital Rabat

This morning, we drive for three hours to Casablanca, a modern, commercial seaport city, to visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. After, we drive two hours to Rabat for lunch, the political capital of Morocco but second in importance to Casablanca. Although mostly modern, Rabat has an excellent old quarter that we take time to explore. Accommodation: Hotel le Musee (or similar)

Day 3 Explore the Roman site of Volubilis and Meknes; to Fez

We strike out from Rabat this morning over the northern plain towards the one-time capital of Meknes, a drive of around three hours. The scenery changes as the land becomes more cultivated, this being one of the most fertile areas in Morocco. Arriving in Meknes, we meet our guide and wander the narrow streets of the old city, exploring the souk and perhaps bartering for souvenirs. In the afternoon, we take a short drive to the largest and best-kept Roman ruins in Morocco: Volubilis, once a large Roman town and now a Unesco World Heritage site. After, we continue our journey to the ancient city of Fez, where we spend two nights. Accommodation: Riad Tafilalet, or Riad Fez Tresor   (or similar)

Day 4 Guided tour of Fez

This fascinating city is the intellectual and religious centre of Morocco. Founded more than 1,000 years ago, Fez has many mosques and madrasas (theological colleges) including the ninth-century al-Karaouine University, whose architecture resembles that of Moorish Spain. The medina in Fez is one of the largest in the world: an immense warren of souks, home to thousands of artisans with their tiny shops opening onto narrow alleyways. Our city guide walks us through different sections of the souk, including those selling leather, brass and copper. Of course, no visit to Fez is complete without a visit to the tanneries. Outside the medina we visit the Jewish District (mellah), the exterior of the Royal Palace and drive to a panoramic viewpoint over the city. Accommodation: Riad Tafilalet or Riad Fez Tresor (or similar)

Day 5 Drive to Merzouga on the edge of the Sahara

We have a long journey today: approximately 10 hours, including plenty of stops and superb scenery. We venture over the Middle Atlas mountains, down through the picturesque Ziz Valley to the Hamada, a flat, stony desert gradually approaching the spectacular golden dunes that comprise Erg Chebbi. We stay in an auberge (inn) on the edge of the dunes, allowing us to climb one for sunrise tomorrow. Accommodation: Auberge Yasmina (or similar)

Day 6 Walk among the dunes; camel trek; free time

There is time today to explore the largest sand sea in Morocco or to relax in the shade of a palm tree by the dunes. The sand sea is famed for having pink tones that take on a spectacular rose colour at sunset. In the late afternoon, we enjoy a classic Saharan experience: a 90-minute camel trek through the dunes, before watching the sun sink below the horizon. We then return to our auberge for dinner. Accommodation: Auberge Yasmina (or similar)

Day 7 To Skoura via Todra Gorge

After breakfast, we head towards the little town of Skoura, which is nestled on a beautiful palm grove and located near the city of Ouarzazate. En route, we explore Todra Gorge and the picturesque oases within (journey time: approximately four hours). Following the Road of 1,000 Kasbahs for approximately two more hours, we see impressive ancient kasbahs nestled in palm groves. Accommodation: Chez Talout or Kasbah Ait Benhadda (or similar)

Day 8 Skoura, the palm grove capital of Morocco

There is an option to take a one-hour drive to Toundout Valley and enjoy a four-hour guided hike crossing an Amazigh village and Imi-noulawen valley, where we learn a little of their culture. Alternatively, relax in and around the lodge. Skoura will certainly offer peace and relaxation with various walks through palm groves and past kasbahs. Accommodation: Chez Talout or Kasbah Ait Benhadda (or similar)

Day 9 Journey to Imlil village via Ait Benhaddou ‘ksar’

Leaving Skoura, we rejoin the main road and drive west along the Road of 1,000 Kasbahs via the desert city of Ouarzazate and onto the well-preserved ksar (fortified village) of Ait Benhaddou. This Unesco World Heritage site is one of the most spectacular in the Atlas and a location for several Hollywood films including Gladiator (2000). We then continue our drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, with a variety of scenery to enjoy on our way to the village of Imlil. Accommodation: Toubkal Garden or Riad Atlas (or similar)

Day 10 Walking in the High Atlas; evening hammam

We start our day with an optional walk to explore the area. From Imlil, we stroll past a variety of fruit trees including cherries, apricots and quince (if it's the right season, you can even grab a hanging walnut). We follow a small irrigation channel and cross paths with mules as we pause beside a tranquil waterfall. Our gentle hike continues for approximately 50 minutes until we reach the Amazigh village of Aroumd. We spend the rest of the day at leisure, strolling around the village and observing the women carrying bundles of firewood and crops on their backs, while children play on the small bridge nearby. This evening, we visit the village hammam – a truly authentic experience and terrific fun. It is very much a traditional hammam and you may mix with the villagers, which further adds to the experience. A standard treatment with soap and scrubber is included but it is customary to give a tip of 20 dirhams (US$2). Refreshed, we return to the riad for our final dinner in the mountains. Accommodation: Toubkal Garden or Riad Atlas (or similar)

Day 11 Over the High Atlas Mountains to Essaouira

After breakfast, we have a scenic drive over the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech.  The scenery is spectacular and there are some wonderful mountain views as we go. We stop at a women's cooperative argon oil farm, where you can see the trees growing, get a demonstration of the production process and have the opportunity to purchase products. Our journey finally brings us to the flat arid plains of Marrakech, and then onwards to the pretty seaside town of Essaouira. Accommodation: Riad Ben Atar or Al Madina (or similar)

Day 12 Free day in Essaouira

We have a free day in Essaouira, an old Portuguese fishing port overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The settlement dates to the 15th century but the present town was constructed around 1760 by Sidi Mohammed ben Abdullah, who needed a base from which to suppress a revolt from Agadir. Today, the town is extremely relaxed and the whitewashed houses with painted shutters, artisan workshops, boatyards and fishermen provide a marked contrast to the desert, kasbahs and cities we have visited so far. Our hotel is in the heart of the old walled city, where we have plenty of time for shopping in the souks or strolling along the beach. With many pleasant cafes and some outstanding seafood restaurants, there is plenty of choice for our evening meal. Accommodation: Riad Ben Atar or Al Madina (or similar)

Day 13 To Marrakech; guided tour including Bahia Palace, the Saadian tombs, finish in Djemma el Fna

After breakfast, we drive back to Marrakech. In the afternoon, we enjoy a guided tour of this amazing city. Our guide takes us to the Bahia Palace and the Saadian tombs, ending in Djemaa el Fna, where the town becomes a maze of bustling bazaars, palaces and mosques. It is worth seeing this renowned landmark in the evening, when it comes to life with people visiting food stalls, juice sellers, snake charmers and acrobats. Accommodation: Riad Tresor de Marrakech (or similar)

Day 14 Free day in Marrakech

Today is free and there is no shortage of things to do in Marrakech. You might wish to visit Koutoubia, the largest mosque in the city, or venture through the souks and old streets of the medina. After bartering for souvenirs, we have time for a short visit to the Koranic School and Museum of Marrakech. After, you can unwind by taking a 30-minute ride on a calèche (a bright green horse-drawn carriage) to the Jardin Majorelle. These tranquil gardens are decorated throughout in indigo and were once owned by French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. For lunch, we highly recommend the Amal Women's Training Centre and Moroccan Restaurant, which we support in their cause to empower women from disadvantaged backgrounds. They are a non-profit organisation dedicated to training their students to become self-sufficient and improving their quality of life through acquiring new skills in a professional restaurant setting. For a superb traditional Moroccan meal and the opportunity to support this worthy cause, do pay them a visit. This evening, it's common for the group to enjoy a final meal together on Djemaa el Fna. Accommodation: Riad Tresor de Marrakech (or similar)

Day 15 End Marrakech

The trip ends after breakfast, though if you’d prefer a little more time to explore Marrakech, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Welcome to Casablanca - Morocco's largest city and in fact one of the largest and most important hubs in entire Africa! Your private driver meets you at the airport and transfers you to the hotel.

The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy the surroundings on your own or take a good rest in your comfortable room.

Day 2: City Tour of Casablanca and Transfer to Rabat

Meals: Breakfast

Following breakfast, you check out from your hotel and meet your local guide and driver in the hotel lobby. You then go on a 4-hour tour of Casablanca.

During the tour, you get to see the major highlights of the city, including Hassan II Mosque, the second largest religious building in the world, designed by the French architect Michel Pinseau. You also have a chance to explore the Hassan II Square and stroll down the Atlantic Boardwalk.

After the tour, your driver takes you to the capital of Morocco -Rabat. Upon arrival, you check into your hotel and have the rest of the day free.

Day 3: City Tour of Rabat

Meals: Breakfast

Following breakfast, you meet your local guide and driver in the hotel lobby and go on a 4-hour tour of Rabat's major highlights.

Located on the Atlantic coast in the north-west of Morocco, the city is the product of a fertile exchange between the Arabo-Muslim past and Western modernism adapted under the French Protectorate. Bearing the unique cultural value, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.

During the tour, you visit the 12th-century Kasbah of the Udayas, Hassan II Tower - the most visited sight in Rabat, the medieval fortified Chellah Necropolis, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.

After the tour, you are transferred back to your hotel and have the rest of the day free.

Day 4: Highlights of Fes

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, you check out from the hotel and meet your driver in the lobby. You are then transferred to Fes, the spiritual capital of Morocco. Upon arrival, you have some free time before meeting your guide and driver for a 5-hour city tour.

During the tour, you see the 14th-century gates of the King Palace, the shrine of Moulay Idriss, the Mellah (Jewish quarter), and old Fes Medina with its traditional markets and tanneries.

Together with the guide, you enter the ancient Bou Inania Madrasa founded in 1351 AD. You then proceed to the Fondouk el-Nejjarine - which was declared a national monument in 1916. Today this building is a home to the Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts.

After the tour, you return to your riad and have the rest of the day at your leisure.

Optional tour: Cooking class in Fes, Morocco

The 4-hour cooking class takes you first to local souks where together with your chef you shop for the best ingredients. You then have a workshop on the rooftop or in the gardens.

Day 5: Day Trip to Meknes and Volubilis

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast at your hotel, you meet your driver and set out to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Upon arrival, you meet your guide who shows you the 2000-year-old ruins, adorned with beautiful mosaics and colorful tiles depicting Roman mythology. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Your next stop is the city of Meknes, where together with your local guide, you explore its major highlights in about 3 hours. You start with admiring the grand entrance to the city and as well the most beautiful gates in the world - Bab Mansour.

Then your guide takes you to the Dar Jamai Museum* with its amazing local arts and crafts, following your visit to the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.

Next, you proceed to the Royal Stables, which is a massive stable yard that was constructed to comfortably house no less than twelve thousand royal horses.

After the tour, you are transferred back to your hotel in Fes.

Please note: the Dar Jamai Museum can be closed for temporary exhibitions. The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is under reconstruction till the end of 2018.

Day 6: Trip from Fes to Merzouga

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Following breakfast, you meet your driver and start off your way to the city of Merzouga. A long (7,5 hours) but fascinating ride awaits!

While traveling through the Middle Atlas Mountains, you pass the town of Ifrane often referred to as the Switzerland of Morocco for the surrounding mountainous landscapes and famous ski resorts. Another highlight of the area is Ifrane National Park - the natural reserve abundant with aromatic Atlas Cedar and a home to the largest population of Barbary macaques at this point considered to be endangered species.

Closer to Merzouga, you make a stop and enjoy panoramic views of Ziz Valley which has historically formed a part of a traditional caravan trading route between the settlements of Northern Sahara.

Upon arrival, you are transferred to your hotel. You then enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant and have the rest of the day free.

Day 7: Exploring the Sahara Desert

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

In the morning, you have some free time to relax and prepare for today's adventure. At around noon, you meet your driver who takes you to the starting point of your camel trek* journey through the sand dunes.

One of the highlights of the day is a stop at a small village of Khamilia where you can watch and listen to the locals playing the typical music of the region - Gnawa.

Before the sunset, you arrive at the Berber camp and enjoy a wonderful dinner by the campfire.

The desert is probably the best place to gaze at the stars. Take this chance and witness the Milky Way!

Note: Your luggage is transferred to the camp by vehicle.

*Camel trek can be replaced with 4X4 drive to the camp. Contact your destination specialist for more information.

Day 8: Todra Gorge and Scoura Oasis

Meals: Breakfast

After hearty breakfast at the camp, your driver* takes you back Merzouga.

Around noon, you meet your driver who transfers you to the spectacular gorge of Todra - one of the most breathtaking sights in Morocco. The gorge was carved by the Todra river that formed cliff-sided canyons in the mountains. The final 2000 ft of the gorge are stunning as the canyon narrows to a flat stony track, which is as little as 30 ft wide in areas with sheer and smooth rock walls.

Upon arrival in Skoura Oasis in 4,5 hours, you check in to your centrally located hotel for overnight.

*Camel trek is available and should be requested in advance. Contact your destination specialist for more information.

Day 9: Driving to Marrakech

Meals: Breakfast

Following hearty breakfast at your hotel, you continue your trip. The first highlight of your 4,5-hour journey is a charming city of Ouarzazate which is often referred to as the Gates of the Desert and was formerly an important hub for African traders.

While your journey continues, you reach another UNESCO site - Ait Benhaddou, the unique mud brick city on the edge of the High Atlas Mountains that was often featured in movies, mostly replacing Jerusalem.

Next comes the Rose Valley - the region between the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert which is the major producer of rose oil and water in the whole country. Traveling in April or early May allows you to see the Rose Valley in all its beauty.

The final leg of your journey takes you through the famous mountain pass in Morocco - Tizi’n’Tichka, and gives you the opportunity to admire magnificent views of numerous Berber villages, snow-capped mountains, and green valleys.

Upon arrival in Marrakech, you check into your centrally-located hotel and have the rest of the day at your leisure.

Day 10: Sightseeing in Marrakech

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, you set off on an exhilarating sightseeing tour of Marrakech with your guide and driver. During your 5-hour tour, you see the major highlights of the ancient city.

You begin your walking tour in the old quarter of Marrakech where you visit the 19th century Bahia Palace, covered with colorful tile work, and see its eight-hectare gardens with fountains. You then proceed to Saadian Tombs - marble tombs for the Saadian dynasty. Accessible only through a small passage in the Kasbah Mosque, the tombs were neglected until aerial photography exposed them in 1917.

Your next stop is El Badi Palace located nearby and believed to have contained more than 350 opulent rooms, in addition to a large pool, sweeping courtyard, and several gardens. The pieces from the El Badi Palace were used to create a new palace in Meknes, leaving just the shell of the palace behind.

Continue to the souks, the largest you can find in Morocco. We suggest you try haggling as it is an inherent part of Moroccan trading culture.

In the afternoon, you venture into the new city and visit the Majorelle Gardens - a magical petite garden estate designed by Jacque Majorelle and maintained by Yves Saint Laurent.

After the tour, you return to your hotel and have the rest of the day free.

Optional tour: Secrets of Moroccan Spices Cooking class in Marrakech, Morocco

This workshop is aimed at teaching you how to prepare a real traditional home-made Moroccan meal and make the right choice between so many amazing oriental spices.

Optional tour: Air-ballooning in Marrakech, Morocco

Early in the morning, meet your driver and travel about 15 miles north of the Palmeraie of Marrakech. Upon arrival, you help to set up the balloon and slowly take off enjoying the spectacular views of rising sun.

Day 11: Day trip to Essaouira

Meals: Breakfast

Early in the morning following breakfast, you meet your driver-guide in the hotel lobby and venture off to the Jewel of the Atlantic, the amazing coastal town of Essaouira known for its distinctive white houses and blue doors.

Upon arrival in about 2,5 hours, you start exploring the former Portuguese fishing village. During your tour, you see Old Medina which is currently part of UNESCO World Heritage and stroll down the Atlantic Boardwalk. Another highlight of the area is the Scala du Port fishing harbor that offers breathtaking views of the Portuguese ramparts.

After the tour, you are transferred back to your hotel in Marrakech.

Day 12: Departure

Meals: Breakfast

This is the last day of your tour of Morocco. After breakfast, you check out from the hotel and meet your driver who transfers you to the Marrakech* airport for your flight back home.

We hope you enjoyed your Morocco experience and we'll be looking forward to seeing you on our tours again!

*Transfer to the Casablanca airport can be added at extra charge. Contact your destination specialist for more information.