Discover the rich cultural heritage of Morocco, where many distinct peoples have left their indelible mark—from ancient Romans to the Arabs to the French–and encounter the living legacy of North Africa’s indigenous Amazigh, or Berbers. Explore the atmospheric souks of Marrakech and Fez, witnessing age-old crafts like damascening and hand-painted ceramics; venture to the ancient adobe village of Aït Ben Haddou, used as a filming location for many Hollywood productions; and enjoy lunch with an Amazigh family in a small oasis village. Then head to Essaouria, the windy Atlantic city that was a onetime haven for pirates—and now musicians.
Hotels (13 nts), comfortable desert camp (1 nt).
14 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
Allow USD380-495 for meals not included.
Private air-con minivan, walking, 4x4.
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
Casablanca: Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.
Casablanca to Fez: Set out on a guided tour of two UNESCO World Heritage sites. venture to Volubilis and discover the soaring columns and remarkably well-preserved mosaic floors of this ancient Roman outpost. Then, visit the remains of the medieval city of Mekn?s, which served as Morocco?s imperial capital in the 17th century. Then, enjoy lunch at a G Adventures?supported women?s cooperative. Continue to Fez and check in to our hotel.
Marrakech: Set out in the maze of tiny streets and alleyways and view the Koutoubia Minaret; then head to a spice shop to discover an array of Moroccan spices. After, visit a converted riad or traditional house for a hands-on cooking class, learning how to prepare a delicious tagine and a variety of salads, and enjoy your creations for lunch.This afternoon, take a historical walk of the ancient medina with our local guide, including visits to the enchanting Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs, the 16th-century mausoleum where the Saadian dynasty ruler Ahmed al-Mansour and his family are interred.
Marrakech/A?t Ben Haddou: In the morning visit the ornate 12th-century Menara Gardens and the Majorelle Gardens, once owned by legendary French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. Afterwards, drive to A?t Ben Haddou, an ancient mudbrick settlement and UNESCO World Heritage site located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Explore this fascinating ksar, or fortified village, and compare the vistas of the city with scenes from the Game of Thrones series, Lawrence of Arabia, and Gladiator?parts of which were filmed here.
A?t Ben Haddou/Erg Chigaga: Travel through the Draa Valley towards the Sahara. Venture into the desert on 4x4s, making your way to the great dunes of Erg Chigaga. Settle into our comfortable desert camp and set off on a desert walk. Climb to the top of the dunes to catch an unforgettable sunset over the Sahara, the world?s largest desert. Enjoy a traditional dinner back at the camp and gather around a fire beneath the stars for an evening of storytelling and traditional music.
Taroudant/Tafraout: Venture deeper into the Anti-Atlas region, known for its spectacular natural rock formations and stark, lunar landscapes. Visit A?t Mansour Gorge, a stunning valley of pink-hued cliffs that harbour lush palm groves. Take a walk through the valley in the shade of towering palms and have lunch at the home of a local family. Later, hike to the rock formation known as Le Ch?peau de Napol?on, or Napoleon?s Hat, before continuing to Tafraout for the evening.
Essaouira/Marrakech: Return to Marrakech and enjoy a free afternoon for lunch on your own, and leisure time where you can opt to view the beautiful collection of Amazigh artifacts at the Berber Museum, or visit the nearby Yves Saint Laurent Museum. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with the group.
Marrakech: Depart at any time.