The desert sands undulate across the expanse and ripple beneath the sun. Ocean waves crash against ancient ramparts and mist into the air. Journey into the depths of history and heritage on this custom tailored in-depth tour of Morocco. Bazaars glow with rainbows of color, from layers of spices to billowing silk. Camel trains trudge across golden sand and between towering cliffs. Fields of roses cast pink shadows and delicate fragrance across the valley. The marvels of Morocco run deep, and this...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Scratching the Surface
Welcome to Casablanca, a city that conjures images of romance and escape. The contemporary city embodies the modern energy of Morocco, filled with remnants of French colonialism and contemporary buildings with antique décor. The scent of the Atlantic Ocean drifts in from the lulling coastline. Palm trees sway in the soft breeze and line the wide boulevards. The Corniche is filled with hip, wealthy locals sipping mint tea in open cafes. Hassan II Mosque was constructed in 1993 but shimmers in the historic Islamic and Moorish styles that embody Morocco’s unique culture. The minaret is the tallest in the world standing approximately 690 feet.
Your private transfer and guide meet you at the airport and take you through the eclectic city. You continue onward to Rabat, the capital of Morocco and find a calmer, smaller city, draped in elegance. A cliff-top castle watches over the azure Oceanside. A small cove houses fishermen near the mouth of Bouregreg River. The cool breeze relieves the spreading sunlight. Arte Deco architecture punctuates lavish arcades, decorated with neo-Moorish detail. Storks soar over the cityscape. They nest near the crescent beach. It is easy to settle into the capital city and feel at home in its relaxed, yet luxurious pace.
What's Included:
Day 2
A Better View
Day 3
Medieval Complexity
Day 4
The Mountain Pass
Day 5
Opening the Desert
Day 6
Sandy Hills to Rocky Cliffs
Day 7
Present Roses
Day 8
Edge of 1,000 Kasbahs
Day 9
Finding the Path
Day 10
Into the Gardens
Day 11
Calls from the Square
Day 12
“City of Wind”
Day 13
View from the Deep
Trip Highlights
- Camel trek along the Sahara Desert to the treasured sand dunes of Erg Chebbi
- Discover ancient Roman ruins outside of the old capital of Morocco
- Witness the incredible landscape of Todra Gorge and Dades Valley
- Explore the depths of old desert Kasbahs on the Road of 1,000 Kasbahs
- Relax in charming historic mansions situated in the old city walls
- Discover the charm of legendary cultures, from Berber to Gnawa
- Visit an elegant alpine city located in the heights of the Middle Atlas Mountains
- View treasured architecture and impressive traditional Moroccan design
Detailed Description
Morocco is a country that exhibits both the rugged beauty of mountains and the serene grace of desolate desert. Valleys blossom against a backdrop of golden sand and craggy foothills. The ocean sweeps across pebbled shores creating a smooth landscape. Berber tribes hand weave intricate patterns into rugs and reside in historic cities built from clay. This 13-day grand Moroccan tour takes you through the distinct cultures and vibrant scenery that have turned the country into legend.
Step into the depths of Morocco with your arrival in Casablanca. The city is steadfast in its contemporary ambiance but holds on to elements of an Art Deco past. Your private transfer, arranged by one of Zicasso's Morocco tour operators, meets you at the airport and guides you through the city en route to Rabat, the contemporary capital of Morocco. Your guide escorts you through the imperial city, visiting Hassan Tower and Oudaya Kasbah before taking you to Meknes, a city filled with its former imperial glory hidden within the relaxed pace of the medina. Following Meknes, you visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, situated in the valley with a backdrop of snowcapped mountains.
Arrive in Fez and enjoy the comforts of your renovated 19th-century mansion accommodations. Your guide meets you and takes you through the winding alleyways of the medina, showing you the Royal Palace and Al Qaraouine University. The city is steeped in wonder that dates back to its medieval glory. Venture through the foothills of the middle Atlas Mountains en route to the desert town of Merzouga. Enjoy the calming effects of the alpine town of Ifrane and the luxuriant views of Ziz Valley.
Climb aboard a camel for a sensational journey into the Sahara Desert where you will listen to the traditional sounds of the Gnawa and witness the colorful plumage of grazing flamingos in the desert waters of Merzouga Lake. Spend time underneath the stars and watch the sunlight glint over the golden sands of the Sahara before winding your way through the spectacular scenery of Todra Gorge and Dades Valley. Indulge in the fragrant air around the Rose Valley, home to the village of Kalaat M’gouna and the rose festival.
Travel along the Road of 1,000 Kasbahs, through the cinematic city of Ourzazate and on to Aït Ben Haddou, a city made from clay. Explore the historic Kasbah and make your way through the majestic Tizi n’tichka Pass. Spend time in the High Atlas Mountains reveling in the peaceful terraced landscape in the village of Imlil. The Berber village of Tahanaout is situated near a bubbling river where local goats and sheep graze on the banks.
Once in Marrakech, historic city life surrounds you. Djemaa el Fna Square erupts with antique culture, filled with the dreamlike picturesque images of Morocco. A full day tour takes you along the medina streets and around the treasured landmarks of the city. A day trip to the Atlantic Ocean takes you through ancient Essaouira, an old Phoenician trading post later fortified by the Portuguese. Your private transfer meets you at your hotel and escorts you to the airport. You have journeyed through the depths of Morocco but can always extend your vacation and continue to discover the marvels of Morocco.
Starting Price
$4,800 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
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