Classic Morocco
Tailor Made Itinerary
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10 Days From £2,995
Overview
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore the medieval streets of the Fez Medina
- Drive the high passes of the Atlas Mountains
- Ride a camel through the dunes of the Sahara
- Trek through the mountains to Berber villages
- Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Djemma Al Fna Square
ITINERARY
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN FEZ
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN FEZ
On arrival into Fez you will be met by a Wild Frontiers representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring independently.
DAY 2: FEZ
DAY 2: FEZ
Today explore Fez, the most ancient of the Imperial Cities. Founded in the 9th century, discover one of the most complete medieval cities of the Arab world. First, head to the old Medina (Fes el Bali) where your guide will lead you through the maze of alleyways and wander through the souk, where craftsmen work as they have done for centuries. You will see the local communal bakeries and walk by many historical fountains, mosques and sanctuaries. After witnessing the traditional weavers and the famous tanneries, stop at the Museum Nejjarine, dedicated to the art of woodwork and cabinet making. You will go inside the 14th century Medersa (theological school) to admire its intricate architecture and view the University of al-Qarawiyyin, the oldest university in history founded in 857. In the afternoon, you will view the exterior of the Royal Palace, built in the late 19th century as a Summer residence for the King Hassan it is a truly stunning building. Heading now to the new part of the city, Fez El Jedid, you will discover what used to be the largest Jewish quarter in Morocco, dating back to the time of the migration of the Jews from Spain in the late 15th century. A walk inside this interesting quarter provides the opportunity to bargain at the jewellery market and explore one of the 17th century synagogues.
DAY 3: FEZ: VOLUBILIS AND MEKNES
DAY 3: FEZ: VOLUBILIS AND MEKNES
Today you will head north to see the ancient site of Volubilis for a guided tour of the region's best preserved Roman city. Continue to the imperial city of Meknes, a 10th century Berber settlement chosen by Moulay Ismaïl in 1672 as capital of his empire. The city's unity of style lends it undeniable charm, enhanced still further by the beauty of the surrounding countryside. Return to Fez in the late afternoon.
DAY 4: FEZ - ERFOUD
DAY 4: FEZ - ERFOUD
Today drive up into the mountains and on towards the desert. Not far outside Fez, you'll have the chance to take a short stroll and experience the cooler air by the Dayet Aaoua Lake before heading to Azrou in the Middle Atlas and then Midelt, situated in a bleak plain of desert scrub. The towering peaks of the High Atlas - the highest range in North Africa - rise up majestically ahead. From here the road winds through spectacular mountain scenery. This is Berber sheep country, and you will pass though the Tizi n'Talrhmeht 'camel pass' and across a broad plateau past the Meski Oasis until at last you reach the colonial frontier town of Erfoud.
DAY 5: ERFOUD - MERZOUGA - ERG CHEBBI
DAY 5: ERFOUD - MERZOUGA - ERG CHEBBI
After a leisurely breakfast and a look around the surrounds of Erfoud, known as 'the gateway to the Sahara Desert', you will drive to the tiny desert town of Merzouga. You will be welcomed with an incredible panorama of sand dunes of the Erg Chebbi desert. Alight your vehicle to a traditional welcoming glass of mint tea at the Auberge du Sud whilst your baggage is being loaded onto the pack animals. You will set off later across a sea of golden dunes steeped in history - meteorites, pterosaur fossils and Spinosaurus fossils have all been found here. The setting sun will provide a spectacle of ever-changing colours in the sky before displaying a star-filled desert scene. Settle into your Berber camp for the night and enjoy a delicious tagine dinner prepared for you around a warming campfire.
DAY 6: ERG CHEBBI - TODRA GORGE - DADES VALLEY - SKOURA
DAY 6: ERG CHEBBI - TODRA GORGE - DADES VALLEY - SKOURA
Today, you will leave the desert and head back to the main road where your journey continues west along the ancient Tinjdad road and into the spectacular Todra Gorge, sometimes described as Morocco's Grand Canyon. Here, ochre coloured cliffs rise vertically, and Berber farmers drive their goats along the path that runs alongside a river at the bottom of the gorge. The views are spectacular, and it is also one of the best bird-watching areas in the country. There are plenty of opportunities to stroll through the gorge. Later on, you will visit the Dades Valley, where the rocky landscape is punctuated by numerous fertile oases. It is sometimes known as the 'Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs', as so many of them occupy the valley slopes. Before arriving in Skoura you can stop at El Kella M'Gouna, and visit its famous rosewater factory, in the spring the whole area is in bloom with small, pink Persian roses.
DAY 7: SKOURA - OUARAZAZATE - HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS
DAY 7: SKOURA - OUARAZAZATE - HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS
Today first discover the Kasbah Taorit, located east of the town centre and largely constructed in the 19th century. Continue to the village of Tifeltoute, around 7km west of Ouarzazate, and visit its splendid Kasbah built in the early 20th century. About 20km northwest from here, up on a dramatic hillside, stop at the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most splendid Kasbahs in the country. Built on a rock beside a shallow river, its marvellous architecture and preservation state has made it the setting of choice for films such as 'Lawrence of Arabia' or 'Jewel of the Nile'. From here it's back into the mountains for a stunning drive over the High Atlas via the Tiz-n-Tichka Pass (2260 m), the highest in the country. Your drive will wind along mountain roads to bring you to Imlil where you will stay in a traditional dwelling of Berber villagers and enjoy good Moroccan home cooking.
DAY 8: HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS
DAY 8: HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS
The rugged terrain has a beauty all of its own and walking is an ideal way to enjoy and appreciate this stunning area. Today you will have your own mountain guide who will introduce you to the region and arrange a walk according to your abilities either up into the mountains or through the Berber villages and hamlets that are dotted around this area.
DAY 9: HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS - MARRAKECH
DAY 9: HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS - MARRAKECH
Depart from the High Atlas this morning, arriving in Marrakech by lunchtime. This afternoon, set off with your guide and explore this vibrant city. Visit the Saadian Tombs, some of the best examples of plaster work to be found anywhere in Morocco, and El Bahia Palace, built by Fes artisans for the once slave Abu Ahmed. You will also be able to spend some time in the best galleries for leather, antiques and hand-crafted gold jewellery, finishing the guided visit in the world-famous Djemâa el Fna Square (the 'Assembly of the Dead'), Marrakech's most popular tourist attraction.
DAY 10: DEPART MARRAKECH
DAY 10: DEPART MARRAKECH
Today you will be transferred to the airport in time to catch your onward flight.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Douar Samra Guest House
The Douar Samra is situated at an altitude at 1850 m in the Atlas Mountains, 20 minute walk or mule ride from the village of Imlil, which is 90 minute drive from Marrakech. Integrated into a traditional Berber village made up of thirty or so traditional stone and rammed-earth dwellings, the Douar Samra has been carefully restored using ancient, traditional methods. The residence has been decorated and furnished to reflect Berber living and consequently the style is simple with all furnishings, rugs and coverings sourced from local craftsmen. There are 10 bedrooms distributed in three different buildings, each with its own bathroom, some with fireplace or with balcony. In keeping with the natural feel, the rooms in the main building don't have lights or electricity and the candle-lit evenings add to the warm atmosphere. The Douar Samra has a roof terrace with spectacular panoramic views, a hammam, and serves traditional Berber cuisine prepared and cooked to the highest standard.
Kasbah Xaluca Maadid
The Kasbah Xaluca Maadid is located on the edge of the desert, three kilometres from Erfoud. The hotel has been built in a traditional Kasbah-style using authentic centuries-old building methods and materials. Packed with Moroccan pottery, traditional lamps and authentic artefacts it has tremendous character and taste. The bedrooms are decorated in warm pastel colours and soft furnishings and equipped with modern facilities. Other facilities include a palm-fringed outdoor swimming pool, an indoor pool and jacuzzi, a hammam and two restaurants.
Les Jardins de Skoura
This delightful renovated Kasbah situated in the palm groves of Skoura, oozes with traditional style and is one of the region’s most sought after properties. With just 8 beautifully appointed rooms, each featuring en-suite facilities, guests can take advantage of the picturesque gardens and terraces, on site solarium, pool, library, delicious cuisine and handicraft boutique. Wi-Fi facilities also available. For activity seekers there’s an equestrian centre and hotel can arrange 4x4 excursions, local treks, karting and mountain biking.
Riad Dar el Ghalia
Dar el Ghalia is a hidden palace situated in the back streets of Fez’s historic Medina. This 18th century property opens onto a breath-taking courtyard filled with colour and light, offering an oasis of calm from the hustle and bustle of the city streets. Each room is exquisitely furnished with traditional Moroccan artefacts, named after ancestors of the friendly and hospitable family who still own and run the hotel. Each room is en suite, and other facilities include lounge areas, internet access, and a traditional hammam. One of the highlights of the Dar el Ghalia is the renowned restaurant dar Tajine, set against the backdrop of panoramic views of the medina from the roof top terrace.
Riad Monceau
Located just off Djemaa El Fna square of Marrakech, the luxury traditional Riad Monceau is a fantastic option whether you are recovering from a flight or exploring the city further. The original Riad dates back to the 18th Century and is a beautiful example of Hispano-Moorish architecture. Following a renovation in 2002, the exquisite building now boasts luxury amenities and comforts. There are only ten rooms, all featuring jacuzzi baths. The owner is an artist and you will see examples of her work around the building, designed to complement the traditional mosaics and intricate reliefs. The refreshing pool is paved with Carrara marble and has views of the Koutoubia mosque. The luxury spa is a highlight with massage rooms, a gorgeous Hamman and a roof-top jacuzzi terrace. Food is a key focus at the Riad Monceau and guests can participate in MarrakChef cooking workshops to delve deeper into the delicious cuisine of Morocco served by celebrity Chef Rachida Sahnoune at the on-site restaurant. ***Guests staying at the hotel get a 20% off on the gastronomic restaurant’s tasting menu and a 15% off on all cooking classes.
Mid-Range
Good quality service and overall comfort
Mid-Range
Good quality service and overall comfort
Mid-Range
Good quality service and overall comfort
Mid-Range
Good quality service and overall comfort
Premium
Excellent standards without the big price tag
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT’S INCLUDED
CLASSIC MOROCCO (10 DAYS) £2,995
MEALS
As specified in the itinerary, sampling some of the country's finest cuisine.
TRANSPORT
Private air-conditioned vehicles with experienced, dedicated drivers.
ENTRANCE FEES
Tours and admission fees, including tickets specified in the itinerary.
EXPERT TEAM
Licensed English-speaking guides and a support team available 24/7.
ACCOMMODATION
As specified in the itinerary, using some of our favourite local properties.
ACCOMMODATION
Ultra - The best of the best, the ultimate indulgence
Luxury - Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium - Excellent standards without the big price tag
Mid-Range - Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple - No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places
CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
If you book international flights through Wild Frontiers.
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.
WHEN TO GO
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
Expert travel consultants
Up-to-date knowledge and advice from our experienced consultants on the best places to stay, things to do and regions to visit to make your holiday the trip of a lifetime.
EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Jamie
Jamie is our Sub Saharan expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Jamie by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258