City Tours Sahara: Morocco Encompassed
Tour Description:
Discover Sparkling Coastlines, Soaring Mountains, Ancient Cities, and the Sahara Desert
Embark on a captivating 17-day journey with City Tours Sahara to explore the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Morocco. From the colonial architecture of Casablanca to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, the medieval city of Fes, and the intricate clay architecture of the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Experience warm local hospitality and indulge in exotic activities like camel riding over Saharan dunes, hiking in the High Atlas Mountains, and exploring bustling souqs. Morocco Encompassed offers a comprehensive exploration of this vibrant country.
Tour Highlights:
– Immerse yourself in Moroccan culture with a homestay in Moulay Idriss, known as Morocco’s holiest place, and visit the tomb of Moulay Idriss I.
– Enjoy two days of relaxation in Essaouira, a walled seaside city, and take a guided walk through its art galleries and wood workshops.
– Trek through scenic Amazigh villages in the High Atlas Mountains and spend the night with a local family in their gite.
– Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert as you ride a camel through massive sand dunes and spend the night under the North African stars at a Bedouin camp.
– Explore Fes’s medina with a knowledgeable local guide, ensuring you don’t get lost in its labyrinthine streets.
Itinerary :
Day 1: Casablanca
Welcome to Morocco and the vibrant city of Casablanca! Your journey commences with a welcoming gathering at 6 pm today. If you arrive early, why not explore the art deco Villa des Arts, showcasing captivating exhibitions of contemporary Moroccan and international art, or delve into the unique history at the Museum of Judaism. For those craving more time in Casablanca, feel free to extend your stay.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Day 2: Tangier/Chefchaouen
Embark on a scenic TGV train ride to Tangier, a city rich in Mediterranean history. Stroll through Café Hafa, frequented by celebrities like Sean Connery and The Beatles, and savor a cup of traditional Moroccan mint tea while gazing over the Strait of Gibraltar. Later, journey to Chefchaouen, nestled amidst the picturesque Rif Mountains, where you’ll enjoy a sunset viewpoint overlooking the town.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Day 3: Chefchaouen
Today, immerse yourself in the charm of Chefchaouen. Explore the medina’s sights, indulge in local delicacies at Plaza Uta el-Hammam, or opt for a guided hike to Akchour Falls amidst the Rif Mountains’ lush scenery. Conclude your day with a relaxing hammam spa experience or a traditional Moroccan dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Day 4: Moulay Idriss
Embark on a scenic drive to the sacred village of Moulay Idriss. Explore the medina, visit the tomb of Moulay Idriss, and witness a breathtaking sunset over the Volubilis plains. Spend the evening connecting with locals over a hearty feast at a welcoming guesthouse.
Accommodation: Homestay (1 night)
Day 5: Volubilis/Meknes/Fes
Discover the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis with a guided tour, then explore the imperial city of Meknes at your own pace. Continue to Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart, for a two-night stay. Indulge in optional group dinners at local restaurants.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Day 6: Fes
Experience the enchanting labyrinth of Fes el Bali on a guided walking tour. Visit landmarks like Medersa Bou Inania and Funduq al-Najjarin, explore the famous tannery and ceramics factory, and savor local specialties for dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Day 7: Marrakech
Board a train to Marrakech, where you’ll embark on a guided walking tour of the medina and experience spiced sand coffee. Enjoy optional activities like exploring Marjorelle Gardens or indulging in a Tajine Cookery Class.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Day 8: Marrakech
Enjoy a free morning to explore Marrakech, followed by a group meeting at 6 pm. Unwind with optional activities or relax at a hammam spa.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Day 9: Aroumd
Venture into the High Atlas Mountains to Aroumd village, where you’ll experience traditional Amazigh culture. Enjoy a guided hike and spend the night in a family-run mountain gite.
Accommodation: Gite (1 night)
Day 10: Ait Benhaddou
Journey to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the edges of the Sahara. Explore the ancient ksar and enjoy a local cooking demonstration and dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Day 11: Ouarzazate – Zagora
Travel to Zagora, a charming oasis town on the Sahara fringe, via Ouarzazate. Take a stroll through palm groves and explore the surrounding countryside.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Day 12: Tamegroute – Erg Chigaga
Visit the intriguing library and underground kasbah in Tamegroute, then journey to Erg Chigaga, the largest dune in the Moroccan Sahara. Enjoy a sunset camel ride and a night under the stars at a desert camp.
Accommodation: Desert Camp (1 night)
Day 13: Oulad Berhil
Travel to Oulad Berhil, stopping at an argan oil women’s cooperative along the way. Arrive at your riad with steam bath and pool facilities for a relaxing evening.
Accommodation: Riad (1 night)
Day 14: Taroudant – Essaouira
Explore the souqs of Taroudant before heading to the coastal town of Essaouira, known for its picturesque charm. Enjoy free time to explore or relax by the seaside.
Accommodation: Riad (1 night)
Day 15: Essaouira
Join a guided walking tour of Essaouira’s old medina, port, and skala. Meet local fishermen and enjoy free time for surfing, shopping, or indulging in a hammam spa.
Accommodation: Riad (1 night)
Day 16: Marrakech
Spend a free morning in Essaouira before returning to Marrakech. Explore Jemaa el-Fnaa Square and enjoy optional activities or a farewell dinner with your group.
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
Day 17: Marrakech
Your adventure concludes after breakfast. Extend your stay to explore Marrakech further or depart as planned.
Meal: Breakfast
