How to Book a Morocco Tour
Morocco is a country of dramatic diversity that acts as a gateway to Africa. Timeless medinas glow with colorful doorways and vibrant homes, and coastal villages hide fairytale forts, while age-old customs blend African and Arab heritage. From sweeping deserts to snow-capped mountain peaks, arranging your perfect combination of destinations and experiences can be a challenge, but Zicasso is here to assist you.
There are three ways to plan and book a trip:
1. Get a customized tour planned and booked by a travel professional. Travel independently on your own schedule.
2. Book a group tour. Join an escorted group tour with a fixed departure date.
3. Plan and book a trip yourself.
Zicasso offers the best solution for a customized tour by matching you with top travel specialists who plan and book the trip for you. Our travel agency division, Marageti, specializes in helping you book an escorted group tour. There is no extra cost to you for either service.
Custom Tours
A customized tour is one that is planned by a travel specialist according to your specific interests, preferences, and schedule. Whether you desire a family-friendly adventure or a romantic getaway, each of the accommodations, activities, and destinations is tailored to your preferences. The knowledge and experience of your travel specialist make a big difference. Zicasso has spent thousands of hours vetting the best travel partners. We act as a referral service, matching you with specialists that best meet your goals and priorities.
Escorted Group Tours
A group tour offers the advantage of convenience at a great value. The schedule is fixed, the itinerary is pre-planned, and a dedicated tour director travels with the group throughout the trip. A group tour can be 30 - 50% less expensive than an equivalent customized tour. Out of the many hundreds of group tours, how do you select the right one for you? Our travel agency division, Marageti, has sales agents who specialize in helping travelers weigh the pros and cons of each group tour. We give you personalized recommendations to find the best tour for you.
Goals and Priorities
What are your goals and priorities for the trip? These should drive your decision for either a customized tour or a fixed departure group tour. We are here to help you make the right decisions to make your dream trip a reality.
Must-See Destinations in Morocco
We have worked alongside our Morocco travel specialists to provide you with recommendations for any trip length. A custom Zicasso tour organizes your time around your needs and desires, but the following suggestions act as great guidelines.
The majority of travelers from the United States spend 10 days in Morocco. 10 days of traveling offers more time to visit the greener Atlantic area, northern Mediterranean section, and the Sahara region. How and where you travel depends on your goals in Morocco. We offer the following examples on where to go, depending on the length of your trip.
7 to 9 Day Trips
If you have between one week to nine days to travel in Morocco, we suggest that you visit Rabat, Fes, Erg Chebbi, Skoura, and Marrakech. Organizing your days will help maximize your time to travel, explore, and discover the essential highlights. Your Zicasso travel specialists can ensure that your trip is organized in the best way possible.
7 Days
Day 1: Rabat
Days 2-4: Fez
Days 5-6: Marrakech
Day 7: Casablanca
8 Days
Day 1: Rabat
Days 2-3: Fez
Day 4: Erg Chebbi (Sahara Desert)
Day 5: Skoura
Days 6-7: Marrakech
Day 8: Casablanca
9 Days
Day 1: Rabat
Days 2-3: Fez
Days 3-4: Erg Chebbi (Sahara Desert)
Day 5: Skoura
Days 6-8: Marrakech
Day 9: Casablanca (Depart)
If you have more time (10-16 Days), we recommend:
If you can spend approximately two weeks in Morocco, we recommend taking time to enjoy the natural scenery of the Rif Mountains. If you have around 14 days, you can also divide your time between the original destinations, plus the High Atlas Mountains, Atlantic coast, and Northern Mediterranean.
All Zicasso tours are customized to your preferences, but below is how we recommend spending your time.
10 Days
Day 1: Rabat
Days 2-3: Fez
Days 4-5: High Atlas Mountains
Day 6: Erg Chebbi (Sahara Desert)
Day 7: Skoura
Days 8-9: Marrakech
Day 10: Casablanca
12 Days
Day 1: Rabat
Days 2-4: Fez
Days 5-6: High Atlas Mountains
Day 7: Erg Chebbi (Sahara Desert)
Day 8: Skoura
Days 9-11: Marrakech
Day 12: Casablanca
14 Days
Day 1: Rabat
Days 2-4: Fez
Days 5-6: High Atlas Mountains
Day 7: Erg Chebbi (Sahara Desert)
Day 8: Skoura
Days 9-11: Marrakech
Days 12-13: Essaouira
Day 14: Casablanca
15 Days
Day 1: Rabat
Days 2-3: Chefchaouen
Days 4-5: Fez
Days 6-7: High Atlas Mountains
Day 8: Erg Chebbi (Sahara Desert)
Day 9: Skoura
Days 10-12: Marrakech
Days 13-14: Essaouira
Day 14: Casablanca
16 days
Day 1: Rabat
Day 2: Tangier
Days 3-4: Chefchaouen
Days 5-6: Fez
Days 7-8: High Atlas Mountains
Day 9: Erg Chebbi (Sahara Desert)
Day 10: Skoura
Days 11-13: Marrakech
Days 14-15: Essaouira
Day 16: Casablanca
How many days is enough to see Morocco?
14 days is a perfect amount of time for a Morocco trip. While spending three weeks would afford you a great balance of sightseeing and relaxation, two weeks still gives you plenty of time to visit the popular highlights, a number of off-the-beaten-path destinations, and still have down time on the coast or for shopping. 14 days also ensures that you have enough time to visit the Sahara.
Essential Experiences for the Best Morocco Vacation
During your Morocco tour, you can wander the cobbled lanes of an ancient Medina or trek to the summit of the nation’s tallest mountain. You can also find excellent beaches, pristine sand dunes, fine wine, colorful towns, and chic art galleries.
Best Way to Experience Marrakech
Marrakech is a marvelous city that acts as the gateway to Moroccan culture. Artisan heritage, mosques, souqs, and Djemaa El Fna square reflect the authentic and preserved heritage of the city. During your Morocco trip, you can enjoy the following essential experiences for your first time in Marrakech.
What to See & Do
The Main Must-Do Tours (2-3 days depending on pace)
Djemaa El Fna Square
- Experience the life of the central square at night when storytellers, food vendors, and jugglers create a vibrant ambiance.
Bahia Palace
- Witness the grand vision of the Bahia Palace, which boasts intricate details with painted ceilings, marble floors, and stunning salons.
Saadian Tombs
- Embrace the beauty of the Saadian sultan’s tomb. Carrara marble, honeycombed plasterwork, and pure gold chambers decorate the structure.
Shopping
- Enjoy the diversity of fashionable boutiques in the contemporary neighborhoods of Marrakech away from the typical shops of the Medina.
Best Way to Experience Fez
Fez is the embodiment of Moroccan tradition. Once a kingdom capital, Fez has traditions that include sub-Saharan trade routes with medieval architecture, active markets, and a warren of narrow alleyways. The following list offers essential experiences when visiting Fez.
What to See & Do
The Main Must-Do Tours (2-3 days depending on pace)
Chouara Tannery
- Traverse the preserved traditions of the tanneries in Fez that date back to the 16th century.
Ben Danan Synagogue
- Discover the Jewish heritage of Morocco at the 17th-century synagogue known for herringbone green tiles, turquoise pillars, and glowing chandeliers.
Artwork
- Uncover the fascinating galleries and celebrated artwork in working boutiques and private studios across Fez.
Best Way to Experience Essaouira
Essaouira shines like a beacon on the west coast. The city hosts an ancient fort, contemporary galleries, spice-scented avenues, and palm-lined boulevards. The coastal city acts as the crossroads between cultures and eras. During your Morocco tour, you should have the following essential experiences.
What to See & Do
The Main Must-Do Tours (2 days depending on pace)
Portuguese Fort
- Wander the old Portuguese fort’s Medina to find gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean, great seafood, stunning art galleries, and a Bohemian ambiance.
Old Port
- Explore the active port to find boat-makers, fishing boats, and the vibrant fish auction.
Special Interests & Activities in Morocco
Traveling with Zicasso provides you with exclusive access to many activities, excursions, and tours for a distinctive experience. The following information offers insight into our recommended experiences and can be tailored to focus on your unique interests.
Best Food & Wine Destinations
Its incredible blend of spices, textures, and flavors make Morocco a delight for food and wine enthusiasts. The cuisine is well-known for its seasonal ingredients and diverse customs. The gastronomy is influenced by the Mediterranean, Atlantic, the Atlas Mountains, Middle Eastern, and African traditions. The wine has rich quality, dynamic versatility, and a long history that dates back to the Phoenician and Roman times, resulting in 14 wine regions.
Meknes
Meknes hosts a warren of winding lanes and enchanting shops. It is located less than 40 miles away from its famous neighbor, Fez. As a winegrowing region, Meknes possesses the finest terroir in Morocco. The balanced climate stems from its position of being midway between the Middle Atlas Mountains and the Atlantic coast.
Essaouira
As a crossroads between African and European cultures, Essaouira has northern trade winds and an arid, red soil. Many grapes that work well in the region include Grenache Blanc and Viognier, which create wines with distinctive New World styles and flavors.
Zicasso’s Exclusive Access to Morocco Best Wine
Zicasso travel specialists can design private tours and organize exclusive visits for food and wine enthusiasts. You can experience private cooking classes or sample award-winning wines in a vintner’s private garden. You can also learn more about Morocco’s wine history, production, and particular varietals from a local sommelier.
Art & History
Morocco is a county where culture abounds from rich and diverse heritage. Moroccan cities celebrate their art by preserving medinas where modern, contemporary, and antique crafts are displayed. Shoes, silk, carpets, brass lamps, ceramics, and paintings represent only a fraction of the craftsmanship visible around the markets and galleries of the country. Museums showcase the long history of Moroccan art that stems from the Neolithic era, Roman occupation, Muslim heritage, and French colonialism. Art and history derive from nomadic desert cultures and coastal fishing villages to highlight Morocco’s place as a crossroads of Mediterranean and African peoples. Typical art includes Berber designs and Art Deco embellishments.
Must-See Art Museums & Attractions:
- Discover the captivating work of artisans who carry on the traditions of handmade goods. Their work is displayed in private workshops and in bustling souqs.
- Compelling art galleries in Morocco’s diverse cities reflect how the national heritage inspires contemporary and modern Moroccan artists.
History
History in Morocco has a record that dates back to the 8th century BC and spans occupations by the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and French. The indigenous Berbers inhabited Morocco for over two millennia before the arrival of the Phoenicians. The preserved culture contrasts with later kingdoms and the French nouveau architecture of later cities. Palaces, museum galleries, and the continued culture of the medinas represent the cultural history of Morocco while the mountains, plains, desert dunes, and coastline reveal its natural history. A customizable Zicasso trip will organize custom tours designed around your interests. Specialized guides, such as local artists, archeologists with a PhD, or history professors, will tailor a unique experience to you. We can also organize small-group tours focused on history and led by a certified guide.
Active Tours
Active tours in Morocco immerse you in a different perspective of the landscape by unveiling coastal beauty, rugged mountainscapes, and tremendous vistas. We recommend the following active experiences when visiting Morocco.
Hiking
- Mt. Toubkal - You can take a guided tour to the summit of Morocco’s tallest mountain.
- High Atlas Mountains - Trekking and hiking is a popular pastime in the High Atlas. These mountains highlight the natural beauty and offer access to Berber villages.
Mountain Biking
- High Atlas Mountains - The High Atlas Mountains offer a collection of rugged and dry trails, ancient paths, and lush passes for mountain bikers. The trails also reach secluded Berber villages.
Surfing
- Oualidia - The west coast town of Oualidia has beautiful waves and is a great place for families to learn how to surf.
Private Excursions and Special Access
Zicasso’s travel specialist partners have unique experience in providing insider access. Each excursion or activity is customized to your specific interests and will often become your most memorable experience to ensure that you have the trip of a lifetime. The following list offers some examples but the possibilities are endless.
- Indulge in a private dinner in Fes with a Sufi scholar and musician.
- Experience the star-studded sky over the Sahara Desert accompanied by an expert astronomer.
How much is a tour of Morocco?
The starting price of a custom-tailored Morocco trip is approximately $225 per person, per day. For an escorted group tour, the starting price can be approximately $150 per person, per day.
The cost of a Morocco vacation is dependent on several factors, such as the:
- Length of your trip
- Season (month) of travel
- Class of hotel
- Number of locations/cities you visit
- Number of guided day tours and activities (e.g., cooking class, wine tasting, etc.)
- How much you spend on meals, shopping, etc.
A vacation such as this is often the biggest purchase of the year. It will also likely be one of the most memorable experiences of your lifetime. To get the most out of your trip, we highly recommend using an expert travel specialist to plan a customized tour that is tailored to your specific interests and budget. You can also join an escorted group tour so that most travel arrangements are pre-planned for you. This way, you can travel hassle-free and relax while a professional tour director and guide takes care of all logistics and any issues that might arise.
The cost of a tailor-made Morocco tour typically starts at $3,150 per person for a 14-day trip, i.e., at $225 per person, per day during the low or mid-season.
This includes:
- 4-star hotels (shared twin room)
- Some guided day tours and activities
- Transportation, such as airport transfers and domestic flights
A 5-star, tailor-made Morocco tour, where most services are upgraded and extra unique experiences are included, typically starts at $11,200 per person for a 14-day trip, or $800 per person, per day.
Everyone’s priorities, interests, and preferences are different. Submit a trip request on Zicasso, and we will personally match you with an expert trip planner who will help you customize your dream trip or help you select the right group tour while also taking your budget into consideration.
Best Time to Visit Morocco
Updated: January 21, 2020
The best time to visit Morocco is mid-March through mid-May and again from October to November. These months represent the best weather because spring and autumn have mild weather but can also have larger crowds.
February is also a great month to travel to Morocco. February is the low travel season in Morocco. The weather is cold in the Sahara, but it is one of the few times of the year you can experience snow on the mountains. February also sees less tourists for a more authentic travel experience.
The climate in Morocco varies across the country dramatically throughout the year. The summer is a low travel season around cities like Marrakech and Fez but still sees many tourists in the mountains or on the coastline because of the cooler climate. The spring and autumn are considered high season along the plains, foothills, desert, and mountain plateaus. While these seasons can see rain, they have mild weather changes, making it the perfect time for visitors.
How far in advance should I plan a trip to Morocco?
To ensure that you can spend your time wisely and enjoy each moment of your trip, you should plan your Morocco vacation at least 10 months in advance if you plan to travel during the high season (between December and early January due to the holiday season). If you are traveling during spring and fall, you should organize your trip four months in advance. You can also plan up to one to two months in advance during the off season. If price is a concern, the winter months of late January and February will offer the best discounts, but some properties may be closed for the season. The summer is not busy in the cities and the heat in the Sahara results in many of the camps closing for the season.
Modes of Transportation in Morocco
The best way to see Morocco in 10 days is by private car. Trains are not available in Morocco and public transportation is not a reliable way to see the country, especially with a limited number of days. A private car and driver offers a unique perspective on the history, culture, and heritage of Morocco. Not only does a private driver know the best routes between towns and cities, but they also offer cultural insight into the best restaurants, specialized shops, and unique information unknown to other travellers while providing friendly service.
Domestic Flights
Flights do exist between cities in Morocco but are unreliable. A recent carrier started service four to five times a week between Fez and Marrakech, which greatly reduces the travel time between the two cities. Driving between Fez and Marrakech can often take up to 10 hours. Other than flying between Fez and Marrakech, the majority of destinations in Morocco are better reached by car.
Your Zicasso travel partner has expert experience in traveling Morocco to ensure that your logistics are taken care of. Smooth and stress-free transitions across the country include private airport transfers and a private luxury car and driver between destinations.
What to Consider When Traveling Through Morocco
When traveling on a Morocco tour, you must consider safety, travel logistics, and accessibility. The following information covers important travel considerations so that you can have a stress-free travel experience.
Is Morocco Safe for Travel?
Morocco is very safe for travelers. When visiting populated areas known to tourists, petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur, but your overall safety is never jeopardized. Popular destinations are often secured by heightened police presence to ensure the safety of travelers and locals. Your four and five-star accommodations have secure properties, and your guides keep in touch with local police offices to remain up to date on any possible safety concerns.
Travel Insurance
You’ve booked your dream vacation, now protect it with travel insurance. A wide range of factors can leave your vacation in limbo. Medical emergencies, inclement weather, and unexpected cancellations can cause turmoil for your trip, so in the unlikely event of a disaster, get the travel insurance coverage that provides peace of mind. To get a quote, visit our travel insurance page.
For Families
Morocco has a very family-focused culture with locals who are excited to share their heritage with children from other countries. Your guides are always family-friendly and can help introduce your children to the culture in an active and engaging way. Considerations you should make when visiting Morocco as a family include:
- Hospitality is a tenant of Islam and remains important to Moroccan culture.
- Fez does not allow vehicles in the central Medina district. If young children are tired, you should tell your guide, who will help divide your time when needed.
For Seniors
Seniors must consider that walking on cobblestone streets for long periods of time may affect your time in Morocco. An expert Zicasso specialist will minimize any mobility challenges or stamina considerations by ensuring that your guides organize your tours accordingly in addition to booking appropriate luxury accommodations. A senior traveling in Morocco should also be aware of the heat, especially between mid-May and mid-September. You can also divide your tours throughout the day by taking breaks, such as for lunch. Traveling in small groups through Marageti will also hit the highlights and take care of travel logistics.
For Couples
A travel specialist understands the best destinations and experiences in Morocco for couples to mix activities and romance. Unspeakably romantic properties, thrilling outdoor activities, and private cooking classes create intimate memories for the perfect Morocco vacation. Exclusive tours will also shape your unforgettable experience, such as dinner under the stars in the Sahara.
For Travelers with Disabilities
Your Morocco travel specialist can help any guests with mobility challenges by focusing on alternative arrangements to concerns, such as antique riad or narrow Medina streets. Our experts’ attention to important details will ensure that you can enjoy Morocco’s highlights, natural beauty, and accommodations with ease.
Best Airports to Fly In & Out of Morocco
The best airport to fly in and out of when visiting Morocco is Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport (CMN). The majority of flights from North America and Continental Europe will arrive in Casablanca, but a growing number of flights from specific North American and European cities arrive at Rabat-Salé Airport (RBA).
For most travelers, the most convenient airport to reach in Morocco is Casablanca. The busiest airports in Morocco are:
- Casablanca (CMN)
- Rabat (RBA)
- Marrakech (RAK)
Find the Best Flight
When flying in and out of Morocco, the best options depend on the destinations you wish to see. Your best options for flights to help minimize travel time include flying into Rabat or Tangier and out of Marrakech. As of 2019, Royal Air Maroc and Air Canada offer the most nonstop options to North America. Delta and Air France have flights to Rabat or out of Marrakech when traveling from Paris (CDG).
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights remain a challenge. The majority of airlines use old propeller planes. A flight was recently initiated between Casablanca to Ouarzazate but runs only three to four times a week; however, these flights are often canceled. The new nonstop flights between Marrakech and Fez take 60 minutes, and the airline uses modern Airbus.
Flights Via Zicasso
Zicasso Air Desk is an international air ticketing service that eliminates the stress of finding and booking the right flights for your upcoming vacation by employing the same personalized service you can expect from planning a trip with Zicasso. Our competitive flight pricing, 24x7 Service & Support, and Complimentary Consultation of Routing vs. Pricing with an Expert Flight Specialist make finding the perfect flight for your trip effortless.
Recommendations for the Return Traveler
When returning for another Morocco tour, you can travel into the depths of the cities and countryside beyond the essential destinations of Marrakech, Fez, and the Sahara Desert. The following list offers our recommendations for where you should visit during your return trip.
Chefchaouen
The blue-washed homes of Chefchaouen represent the colorful charm of a mountain village that clings to the raw peaks of the Rif foothills. The Andalusian and Moroccan heritage influences the local character with red-tiled roofs, narrow lanes, and a vibrant souq. The relaxed ambiance spills into the lush hills that represent a world away from the fast-pace of other Moroccan cities.
Taroudant
Taroudant is a city of elegant mystique. The Berber market town shines with red-mud walls and is set beneath the Atlas Mountains’ snow-capped peaks. The public squares fill with vibrant sounds, while the souqs glow with colorful spices and clothing. Whether used as a base for trekking, a stop-over to the coast, or a charming getaway, Taroudant will immerse you in an enchanting heritage near the fertile Oued Souss plain.
Related Morocco Tours by Zicasso
Here is our list of other Morocco Tours we offer:
Themed:
Duration:
