Itinerary

DAY 1: TORONTO / CASABLANCA

Departure from Toronto Pearson International Airport with Royal Air Maroc, bound for Casablanca.

DAY 2: CASABLANCA / RABAT (90 KM) (L/D)

Arrival at Casablanca Airport, where you will be greeted by your English-speaking driver-guide. Begin your journey with an interior and exterior guided tour of the majestic Hassan II Mosque*. Enjoy lunch before heading off on a panoramic tour of Morocco’s economic capital, including the United Nations Square, Mohammed V Boulevard, the upscale Anfa district, the Aïn Diab Corniche, and the traditional Habbous quarter. Continue onward to Rabat. Dinner and overnight stay.

*Note: For the guided tour of the interior and exterior of the Hassan II Mosque, you will be grouped with other English-speaking visitors.

DAY 3: RABAT / TANGIER (246 KM) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, enjoy a guided historical walking tour of Rabat. Begin with a stroll along the esplanade of the Royal Palace, Dar el Makhzen, adorned with magnificent carved gates. Stop for a photo in front of the ancient Merinid necropolis of Chellah, then continue with a guided visit of the Hassan Tower and the prestigious Mausoleum of Mohammed V. This marble masterpiece, a symbol of traditional Moroccan architecture, is considered one of the most beautiful tombs in the world.

Next, explore the Mechouar walls, the Andalusian garden, and the Kasbah of the Udayas, built in the 12th century by the Almohads. The imposing main gate, crafted by Sultan Yacoub el Mansour, is a striking example of Almohad art.

After lunch, head north to discover Cap Spartel, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. Continue along the Atlantic coast to Tangier for a guided walking tour. Located at the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier offers a fascinating blend of African, European, and Oriental influences. The city has long inspired world-renowned artists. Begin your visit at the kasbah overlooking the port, the highest point in the city, then explore the vibrant Grand Socco and the Petit Socco nestled in the heart of the medina.

Dinner and overnight stay.

*Subject to completion of restoration works.

DAY 4: TANGIER / CHEFCHAOUEN / FES (315 KM) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, depart for Chefchaouen, the famed Blue City nestled in the Rif Mountains. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to explore its captivating medina. Perched on a mountainside, this charming town features winding alleys, whitewashed homes with blue accents, and a serene, magical atmosphere unique to Morocco.

After lunch in Chefchaouen, continue your journey to Fes. Arrive in the evening for dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 5: FES (B/L/D)

After breakfast, begin a full day of discovery in Fes. Start with a guided historical visit of Fes El-Jdid and a walk along the Royal Palace esplanade to admire its stunning golden gates. Continue with a walking tour of the UNESCO-listed medina, Fes El Bali—the largest and oldest in the world, founded between 789 and 808 by the Idrisid dynasty.

Wander through Place Seffarine and visit the Medersa el Attarine, built in 1323 by the Marinid Sultan Abou Said. Its intricate architecture is a masterpiece of oriental design. Admire the exterior of the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University—one of the oldest centers of learning in the world and a true gem of Fes El Bali.

Explore Place Nejjarine with its beautifully decorated zellige fountain and carved cedar canopy. As you walk through the various artisan quarters and souks, observe craftsmen and merchants at work. Visit the spectacular Chouara Tanneries, in operation since the Middle Ages, and one of the most iconic sights in the medina.

Enjoy lunch at a traditional riad-style restaurant within the medina. In the afternoon, visit a renowned Fassi ceramic workshop, followed by a trip to the Marinid Tombs at Borj Nord, offering panoramic views over the old city. Conclude your tour with a visit to the famous Blue Gate, Bab Boujloud.

Dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 6: FES / IFRANE / MIDELT / ERFOUD / MERZOUGA / LUXURY DESERT CAMP (464 KM) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, depart for Merzouga via the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane, often referred to as the “Little Swiss town” of Morocco, known for its alpine-style architecture and cedar forests. Along the way, you may spot Barbary macaques, a native species of the region.

Continue to Midelt for lunch, then head toward Errachidia and Erfoud, passing through the dramatic Ziz Gorges and Valley, and crossing the High Atlas via the Talghemt Pass at an altitude of 1,907 meters. Arrive in Erfoud, nestled in the palm groves of the Tafilalet region, before continuing toward the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga.

Upon arrival at your luxury desert camp, enjoy some time to relax before witnessing a breathtaking sunset over the dunes. The evening features a traditional dinner and an authentic desert experience with music and entertainment under the stars—a magical and unforgettable night in the Sahara.

Dinner and overnight stay in a luxury bivouac.

DAY 7: LUXURY DESERT CAMP / MERZOUGA (B/L/D)

After enjoying the breathtaking desert sunrise, have breakfast before setting off on a 4x4 excursion around the spectacular dunes of Erg Chebbi—some of the highest in the Sahara, reaching up to 150 meters. Visit a nomadic settlement to experience the rhythms of traditional Gnawa music, followed by stops in the village of Merzouga and the oasis of Hassilabied, known for its ancestral irrigation system.

Lunch will be served at your accommodation, set in a stunning location at the foot of the dunes. Enjoy free time to relax and soak in the serene beauty of the desert. Weather permitting, take a dip in the pool with sweeping views of the sand dunes, or simply unwind, climb nearby dunes, or meditate in this peaceful landscape.

In the late afternoon, meet your camel handlers for a traditional camel ride across the dunes at sunset—a magical moment of silence and golden light. Pause atop the dunes to enjoy the view before riding back to your desert lodge.

Dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 8: MERZOUGA / TODRA GORGES / TINGHIR / DADES VALLEY / DADES (280 KM) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, depart for the Dades Valley via Tinjdad. Along the way, stop for a guided walk through Ksar El Khorbat, a beautifully preserved fortified village where many of the earthen homes are still inhabited. This hidden gem offers a glimpse into authentic local life and traditional architecture.

Continue toward Tinghir and arrive at the dramatic Todra Gorges, carved by the Todra River over millennia. Enjoy a scenic walk through these towering limestone cliffs, which can rise up to 300 meters—making you feel incredibly small amid nature’s grandeur.

Next, pass through the lush palm groves of Tinghir and head into the Dades Valley via a breathtakingly scenic route. Marvel at the striking natural rock formations, including the famous "Monkey Fingers," and the vibrant variation of colors throughout the valley. Make a stop at the panoramic viewpoint of the Dades Gorges in Tissadrine before returning to your accommodation in the Dades area.

Dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 9: DADES / KALAA M'GOUNA / OUARZAZATE / AÏT BEN HADDOU / OUNILA VALLEY / TIZI N’TICHKA / MARRAKECH (320 KM) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, depart along the famous Route of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing through the Valley of Roses via Kalaa M'Gouna and the palm grove of Skoura. Stop in Ouarzazate for a photo opportunity in front of the Taourirt Kasbah, an iconic example of southern Moroccan architecture.

Continue to the legendary Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch, enjoy a walking tour of this striking ksar—a fortified village made of earthen clay and surrounded by defensive walls. Some of the structures resemble small castles, complete with tall towers adorned with intricate motifs. The oldest buildings date back to the 12th century.

In the afternoon, journey toward Marrakech by way of the Ounila Valley, then ascend the High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, located at 2,260 meters above sea level and offering stunning panoramic views.

Arrive in Marrakech in the evening. Dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 10: MARRAKECH (B/L/D)

After breakfast, begin your discovery of Marrakech with a guided walking tour of the Majorelle Garden, one of the city's most enchanting green spaces. Home to over 300 plant species from five continents, its vibrant palette—featuring the famous Majorelle blue and bright yellow—creates a magical botanical work of art.

Continue with a visit to the Menara Gardens to view the serene Saadian pavilion with its green pyramidal roof, followed by a panoramic tour of the city walls that once protected the Red City. Stroll through Place des Ferblantiers before exploring the 19th-century Bahia Palace, often called the “Little Alhambra,” a masterpiece that tells the story of a vizier’s devotion to his beloved.

Enjoy lunch in the heart of the medina, then continue with a guided historical walking tour of Marrakech’s UNESCO-listed old city. Wander through its bustling souks, alive with vivid colors, exotic spices, and intoxicating aromas. Visit the stunning Ben Youssef Medersa, a jewel of Saadian architecture.

Later, experience the legendary Jemaa el-Fna Square, the lively heart of Marrakech’s social and cultural life. Surrounded by souks, this iconic square comes alive with snake charmers, acrobats, musicians, storytellers, and water sellers—offering a sensory immersion unlike any other.

End the day with a visit to the magnificent Koutoubia Mosque, whose 77-meter-high minaret dominates the city skyline.

Dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 11: MARRAKECH / COOKING CLASS / MARRAKECH (20 KM) (B/L)

After breakfast, head to the Palmeraie for an immersive Moroccan cooking class. Discover the secrets of traditional Moroccan cuisine, learning to prepare authentic dishes using time-honored techniques and local spices. Once your meal is ready, enjoy the fruits of your labor in a majestic setting.

Return to Marrakech in the early afternoon and enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace or simply soak in the cultural ambiance. Optional activities are available through your French-speaking driver-guide, including a hammam experience, dinner shows, Fantasia night, or a gourmet dining experience ($).

Overnight stay in Marrakech.

DAY 12: MARRAKECH / ESSAOUIRA (190 KM) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, depart for Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador, located on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Along the way, you may catch sight of the famous goats perched in the argan trees—a unique and iconic scene. Stop at a women’s argan oil cooperative, where you’ll learn about the production of this precious oil, renowned for its culinary and cosmetic properties.

Continue to Essaouira for a guided historical walking tour of the Skala of the city and the picturesque port, where rows of traditional blue wooden fishing boats line the docks. The city's fortified ramparts and historic cannons date back to the 18th century, when the Portuguese built the legendary Skalas.

Stroll through the UNESCO-listed medina, which has preserved its authentic layout, architecture, and building materials. Explore lively souks that showcase traditional Moroccan crafts and trades, visit the historic Jewish quarter (Mellah), and the Consulate district, rich in history and cultural heritage.

Dinner and overnight stay in Essaouira.

DAY 13: ESSAOUIRA (B)

Enjoy a free day in Essaouira at your own pace. Take the opportunity to leisurely explore the charming medina, nestled within the city’s historic ramparts. Influenced by both Portuguese and Moorish styles, the medina is home to artisan workshops, quaint markets, and the vibrant fishing port.

Outside the ramparts, you may choose to stroll along the seaside promenade or relax in Place Moulay Hassan, the city’s lively main square facing the ocean, lined with inviting cafés and perfect for soaking up the coastal ambiance.

At sunset, don’t miss the breathtaking views from the ramparts overlooking the Atlantic—an unforgettable moment to end your day.

Essaouira will enchant you with its authentic charm, laid-back vibe, and seaside allure.

Overnight stay in Essaouira.

DAY 14: ESSAOUIRA / SAFI / OUALIDIA / EL JADIDA / CASABLANCA (370 KM) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, depart along the scenic coastal road toward Safi, a major fishing port and former Portuguese settlement. Continue to Oualidia for lunch—its peaceful lagoon is considered one of the most beautiful along Morocco’s Atlantic coast.

In the afternoon, travel to El Jadida, also known as Mazagan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fortified city was originally built by the Portuguese in the early 16th century and remained under their control until 1769, when it was reclaimed by the Moroccans. Enjoy a walking tour along the city’s well-preserved ramparts, which offer stunning views of the port, ocean, and town.

Later, continue to Casablanca for dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 15: CASABLANCA / MONTREAL (B)

After breakfast, transfer to Casablanca Airport for your return flight to Montreal.