morocco desert

Our Journeys

Moroccan Exploration

Land Tour
16 Days
$8490 CAD
All inclusive from, per guest, double occ.
Limited Spaces Available
Land Tour
16 Days
$8490 CAD
All inclusive from, per guest, double occ.
Limited Spaces Available

Journey Highlights

Morocco is a lavish treat. Wind your way through the famous century-old souks in Fez and UNESCO-recognized Marrakech medina. Be swept away by the ocean breeze during a relaxing day in the beautiful seaside town of Essaouira. Journey through the Sahara desert sand dunes on the back of a camel. A savoury feast for the mind, body and soul, Morocco will steal your heart.

Image: Tent in the Sahara desert in Morocco

Sahara Desert

Sahara Desert

Few places on Earth compare to the Sahara desert. Venture out into copper-coloured sand with dunes rolling on the horizon. Travel by 4×4 through the soft sand to an enchanting tented camp, indulge in a sunset camel ride and celebrate with a traditional Berber feast and live entertainment before falling asleep under the star-filled sky. Morocco’s desert is an adventure of a lifetime.

Image: Lamps hanging in a Souk in Morocco

Souks

Souks

A spellbinding maze of alleyways, discover the most amazing Moroccan markets in Fez and Marrakesh. Alive with vibrant energy, make way through passages filled with sensationally crafted merchandise as the vendors call-out. Between the smell of the aromatic spices and the feel of the hand-woven carpets, visiting a souk is a full sensory experience.

Journey Manager John and the local guides Ben and Mohamad – they made this Morocco trip exceptional! Great friendly & professional services – the BEST!

— Ms. Little from Brighton, ON
Image: Blue boats on the coast of Morocco

The Coast

The Coast

Running along the Atlantic Ocean all the way to the Mediterranean sea, the Moroccan coast is dotted with charming harbours, fishing ports and beautiful beach towns. Feel like a local while ambling through the streets of Casablanca or enjoy the peaceful relaxation of the quieter beach towns of Rabat, Moulay Bousselham and M’Diq. Morocco’s leisurely coast is just as appealing as its bustling interior.

I love Morocco – a truly magnificent country. I enjoyed the markets and medinas.

— Pierre Roger of Ottawa, ON

Journey Itinerary

DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1

Depart for Casablanca, Morocco

Start your Journey with us by enjoying a private car pick up service from your home. Upon arrival at the airport, guests departing from the Toronto airport are assisted with their check-in. Meet your Journey Manager and fellow guests, and board your flights to Morocco. Our Journey Manager travels with you to take care of all the details, allowing you to embrace your Journey.

Overnight: Flight
Meals:
Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca, Morocco
Day 2

Casablanca

On arrival in Casablanca, we meet our friendly local guide. Following a morning drive around the coastal city, we visit the Hassan II Mosque, whose minaret soars 175 metres above the city. After a light lunch, a scenic drive takes us to Rabat, where we enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Enjoy dinner at our hotel and take the time to settle-in and meet fellow travellers.

Overnight: Rabat, Tour Hassan
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca, Morocco
Day 3

Rabat

The “Fortified Place,” the literal meaning of Rabat is the capital city of Morocco. Its wide boulevards are filled with out-of-the-ordinary 7th-century historical monuments. Today we explore the administrative capital of Rabat and witness the marble Mohammed V Mausoleum decorated with exquisite zellige (geometric mosaic tiles) and the unfinished but ever striking Hassan Tower, which was meant to be the largest minaret in the world. Then we pay a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasbah of the Udayas. It is within these historical walls that the city of Rabat began in the 12th century. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon of free time before joining us for dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight: Rabat, Tour Hassan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The exterior walls of Rabat
Day 4

Moulay Idriss & Volubilis

After breakfast, we head to the imperial walled city of Fez, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will transport you back to medieval times; upon arrival, we explore the holy town of Moulay Idriss. Spread over two hills at the base of Mount Zerhoun, it holds a special place in the hearts of the Moroccan people. A new dynasty began here with Moulay Idriss bringing the religion of Islam and starting the construction of this marvelous city. At the archaeological site of Volubilis, our guided tour exhibits the partly excavated Roman city commonly considered the ancient capital of the Roman-Berber kingdom of Mauretania. Savour lunch in Meknes, followed by a visit to the old imperial capital. Enjoy the famous Bab Mansour Gate, the Jewish Quarter, and the vast El Hedim Square before settling into your hotel in Fez later this afternoon.

Overnight: Fez, Marriott Jnan Palace
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Archaeological site of Volubilis, Morocco
Day 5

Fez: Imperial City

An exhilarating day in the religious capital of Morocco awaits. Cradle of a thousand-year-old monarchy, Fez shares her memories of 12 centuries of history and shows us the refinement of Hispano-Moorish culture. After a visit of the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, we continue to the Bou Inania Madrasa and the Nejjarine fountain. Following lunch the afternoon is yours to continue exploring or maybe treat yourself to a Hammam.   This evening we enjoy dinner at our hotel.

Overnight: Fez, Marriott Jnan Palace
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6

Fez

This morning we continue exploring Fez.  Our first visit is to see the exteriors of the Royal Palace and the Bab Bou Jeloud gate. Following a visit to a tannery in the heart of the bustling souk, we enjoy lunch at the beautiful Palace restaurant. We continue our exploration with a visit to the pottery district to discover the art of Moroccan ceramics and tilework before some free time in the afternoon to do as much or a little as you please.  Dinner this evening is at our hotel.

Overnight: Fez, Marriott Jnan Palace
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The tanneries in Fez, Morocco
Day 7

Ifrane, Midelt, Erfoud

Today we travel an idyllic route to the Sahara Desert. Along the way, admire the parade of mountains, valleys, forests, and desert. We stop in the city of Ifrane which is unlike any other town in Morocco. Located at an altitude of 5,460 feet above sea level in the Middle Atlas region, this small hill town has a Swiss alpine feel to it. With neat red-roofed houses, blooming flower beds, lake-studded parks and snowbound winters, this remarkable European styled town is often referred to as “Morocco’s Switzerland.” Next, we visit Azrou, which translates literally to “rock” in the local Amazigh language and is named for the large, black volcanic outcrop in the centre of town. Lunch is near the town of Midelt in the plains of the Middle Atlas. Our drive continues to Erfoud for a relaxing evening and dinner at our hotel.

Overnight: Erfoud, Kasbah Hôtel Xaluca Arfoud
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Kasbah Hôtel Xaluca Arfoud, Erfoud - Exterior
Day 8

Merzouga

Merzouga lies on the edge of Erg Chebbi, a monumental series of sand dunes that reach heights of 160 metres, larger than many skyscrapers. It’s an amazing sight, especially as the dunes change colour in the setting sun from shades of gold to orange, pink and purple. Here our desert adventure by 4×4 begins as we climb to the top of a hill for spectacular views of the rolling sand dunes. Enjoy a tea ceremony with a local nomad family, before continuing into the dunes for a picnic lunch.  After you have settled in your luxury tented camp, we set off on a camel ride to bask in the golden sunset over the dunes. We return to the camp to enjoy a Berber feast and entertainment under the star-filled sky!

Overnight: Merzouga, Sahara Sky
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Dessert camp in the Sahara Desert
Day 9

Boumalne Dades & Ouarzazate

We depart for the Todra Gorge, situated on the east side of the High Atlas Mountains. It is recognized around the world as one of the most spectacular canyons – a 300-metre-deep fault of limestone that offers just enough space for a crystal-clear river and a small path for hikers. After lunch, we head towards Boumalne Dades along the “Route of 1,000 Kasbahs,” famous for its beautiful and charming landscapes, as well as its idyllic gorges. Our senses then come alive as we visit the Valley of Roses, home to Morocco’s largest rose water and rose oil manufacturers. In the evening, we arrive in Ouarzazate and enjoy dinner at our hotel.

Overnight: Ouarzazate, Le Berbere Palace
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Valley of Roses in Morocco
Day 10

Ouarzazate, Aït Ben Haddou, Marrakesh

A city of palm trees, sandy streets and fort-like buildings, Ouarzazate has stood at the edge of the Sahara Desert for hundreds of years. After a visit of the Ouarzazate film studios, we head to the ancient village of Aït Ben Haddou. This fortified city is full of towering kasbahs and crumbling walls with only five families still living inside the fortress of Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou.

We enjoy lunch before travelling along the famous camel caravan route and over Tizi n’Tichka to Marrakesh. We settle into our riad in the heart of the city for a relaxing dinner and evening.

Overnight: Marrakesh, Hotel Radisson Blu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11

Marrakesh

Originating from the Amazigh (Berber) words, “amur kush,” Marrakesh means “Land of God.” One of the Imperial cities of Morocco, its location and contrasting landscape make it an enviable destination in Morocco. Our exploration is vast and includes a visit of the Menara Gardens, one of the oldest gardens in Marrakesh with an immense olive grove dotted with palm and cypress trees. Next, we visit the Mellah (Jewish Quarter) and the Bahia Palace, one of Marrakesh’s most imposing buildings. A visit to Marrakesh would not be complete without seeing the well-known Koutoubia Mosque. Following lunch, we explore the souks and the famous Jemaa el-Fna Square. Dinner this evening is sure to delight.

Overnight: Marrakesh, Hotel Radisson Blu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12

Marrakesh

This morning we visit the Majorelle Garden, made in the 1920s by the French painter Jacques Majorelle, with marble pools, raised pathways, banana trees, groves of bamboo, coconut palms and bougainvilleas. Perhaps unsuprisingly as the garden was designed by a painter, the garden is composed and coloured like a painting. Many of the built features were painted in a dark blue (‘Majorelle Blue’) which works very well with the soil, climate and plants. Next we visit the Yves Saint Laurent Musuem which is entirely devoted to the work of the ledendary fashion designer. Following lunch in a local restaurant the afternoon is at your leisure.  This evening dinner is at our hotel.

Overnight: Marrakesh, Hotel Radisson Blu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Colourful plates in Morocco
Day 13

Marrakesh & Essaouira

This morning we travel to Essaouira, known as Morocco’s “windy city.” A combination of spectacular beaches, great sea and the almost constant tropical trade winds has changed this city from a hardworking port into one of the world’s greatest sites for windsurfing, kiteboarding and other exhilarating watersports. The city has a dual heritage, and this can be seen in the mighty walls that surround this old Moroccan trade centre. Once a Portuguese fortress, rusting cannons between the ramparts still point out to sea. There is a certain European feel to the construction of the city once known as Mogador. Following lunch and a wine tasting at a local vineyard, we visit an Argan Oil Women’s Cooperative before checking into our hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Dinner this evening is at our hotel.

Overnight: Essaouira, MGallery by Sofitel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The coast of Essaouira in Morocco
Day 14

Essaouira

A day dedicated to relaxation, exploration, or quiet time. This endearing seaside resort and fishing port extends on a narrow peninsula, ensuring rapturing views from all angles. Your lunch and afternoon are free for you to explore on your own. This evening, we dine in a lovely Caravane Café restaurant.

Overnight: Essaouira, MGallery by Sofitel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Blue boats in the port of Essaouira in Morocco
Day 15

Safi, El Jadida, Casablanca

In Safi, discover this hidden gem, nestled on the shores of the Atlantic. Safi has two beating hearts; one in the old town, lined with shops offering the beautiful blue Safi ceramics, all lying in the shadows of the gorgeous Portuguese Citadel, and the new, bustling with modern energy. In El Jadida, discover the famous Portuguese fortified city of Mazagan built at the start of the 16th century. The UNESCO-listed site is often considered to be one of the country’s best examples of military design. This afternoon, we arrive in Casablanca with free time to relax at your leisure.

Overnight: Casablanca, Hyatt Regency
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Portuguese Citadel of Safi, Morocco
Day 16

Home

We bid “wadaeaan” to our new friends and make our way to the airport for our flights home. Enjoy our private car to your home. (B)

Overnight: Home
Meals: Breakfast
Private car home from the Journey to the Nordic Countries
Private car home from the Journey to the Nordic Countries
Private car home from the Journey to the Nordic Countries

Signature Inclusions on This Journey

THE JOURNEYS DIFFERENCE

In addition to our essentials, your Journey includes our following Signature Inclusions:

24/7 Professional Journey Manager
  • Will travel with you and handle every detail
  • In addition to knowledgeable
    local guides

 

Private Car Pick-up Service
  • Within a 200-kilometre radius of the airport, let your Journey begin in elegant comfort

 

Generous Tips & Gratuities
  • For the porters, local guides, hotel staff & many more, paid by us on your behalf

 

Memorable Private Excursions
  • Private excursions crafted by our team
  • All sightseeing & entrance fees included

 

Our essentials included with your Journey:

  • 13 nights in outstanding hotels
  • 1 night in a comfortable desert camp
  • Most meals included (14 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 14 dinners)
  • Round-trip airfare from Toronto with Air Canada
  • All taxes as well as port & service charges
  • “Whisper” radios included for use during excursions
  • Flights from select Canadian gateways for only $100
  • Other gateways & travel classes available
  • Porterage for one piece of luggage per person
  • Complete information & assistance leading up to your departure
  • Branded overnight carry-on or backpack

Hotels

Day 2-4

TOUR HASSAN, RABAT

A palace in the heart of Rabat, the Tour Hassan is a showcase of Moroccan art and hospitality. With the splendour of Moorish architecture find yourself relaxing in the utmost elegance and an atmosphere of unique majesty. Drape yourself in a world of history, culture, and comfort all within this stylish hotel.

La Tour Hassan Palace - Resturant
La Tour Hassan Palace - Guest Suite
La Tour Hassan Palace - Relaxation
La Tour Hassan Palace - Exterior
Day 5-8

MARRIOTT JNAN PALACE, FEZ

The Marriott Jnan Palace, located in the city’s new corner, offers air-conditioned rooms, a relaxing outdoor pool that is great for lounging around, and an invigorating sauna. Each guest room features a balcony with views of the pool, as well as gardens surrounding this lovely property.

Marriott Jnan Palace, FEZ - Guest room
Marriott Jnan Palace, FEZ - Exterior
Marriott Jnan Palace, FEZ - resturant
Marriott Jnan Palace, FEZ - pool
Day 8-9

KASBAH HÔTEL XALUCA ARFOUD, ERFOUD

The Kasbah is unique in Morocco due to its distinctly Moroccoan  style. Built with adobes, the traditional Moroccan building bricks, its 137 spacious rooms are decorated with regional materials and combine tradition with modern amenities.

Kasbah Hôtel Xaluca Arfoud, Erfoud - Guest Suite
Kasbah Hôtel Xaluca Arfoud, Erfoud - Lobby
Kasbah Hôtel Xaluca Arfoud, Erfoud - Pool
Kasbah Hôtel Xaluca Arfoud, Erfoud - Exterior
Day 9-10

SAHARA SKY, MERZOUGA

Few experiences can beat an overnight desert camp, Sahara Sky Luxury Camp takes this to an unexpected level of luxury in a secluded setting, far from mass tourism in Merzouga. Dine under the stars, sleep in the desert winds and enjoy the romance of it all, large white tents furnished with a rustic chandelier.

Day 10-11

LE BERBERE PALACE, OUARZAZATE

Built glamorously on a high perch in the style of a Kasbah (fort), Le Berbere Palace combines facilities with high-quality service, plus plenty of authentic Berber materials, crafts and artifacts. The studios themselves are nearby, as is, just outside town, Kasbah de Taourirt – one of the fairest forts of them all.

Le Berbere Palace, Ouarzazate - Pool
Le Berbere Palace, Ouarzazate - Resturant
Le Berbere Palace, Ouarzazate - Patio
Le Berbere Palace, Ouarzazate - Guest Suite
Day 11-14

RADISSON BLU, MARRAKESH

Set in the heart of Marrakech, the Radisson Blu welcomes visitors to the vibrant Gueliz quarter. This modern hotel features a beautiful lobby, patio and restaurant. The hotel’s leisure facilities include a spa, a fitness center and an aquarium swimming pool surrounded by a spacious patio with sunbeds.

Radisson Blu, Marrakesh - Pool
Radisson Blu, Marrakesh - Lobby
Radisson Blu, Marrakesh - Room
Day 13-15

MGALLERY BY SOFITEL, ESSAOUIRA

Inspired by the magnificent Moroccan riads, the MGallery by Sofitel is decorated in the traditional red of Mogador. Close to the sea, the medina and the port, this luxury 5-star hotel blends modernity with Moroccan style for a sophisticated stay.

MGalley by Sofitel, Essaouira - Beach
MGalley by Sofitel, Essaouira - Guest Suite
MGalley by Sofitel, Essaouira - Patio
MGalley by Sofitel, Essaouira - Spa
Day 15-16

HYATT REGENCY, CASABLANCA

The Hyatt Regency is ideally situated in Fonciere, one of the city’s most popular locales. A haven of rest and relaxation, the hotel offers total renewal just steps away from the lively city’s numerous attractions.

Hyatt Regency, Casablanca
Hyatt Regency, Casablanca - Street View
Hyatt Regency, Casablanca 0 Spa
Hyatt Regency, Casablanca
October 11 to 26, 2023

All-Inclusive Fares

Double Occupancy

$8,490

Single Occupancy

$10,240
Prices are per guest in CAD, all taxes included.

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