12-Day Essential Morocco Tour

The driver will pick you up in the morning and visit the city of Ouarzazate which is also known as ‘the door of the desert’ and is the gateway to the Sahara Desert.

Ouarzazate boasts a significant role in the history of the south of Morocco, lying as it does at the confluence of the three major southern oasis valleys – the Draa, the Dades, and the Ouarzazate. Extensive fortifications built by successive sultans trying to dominate and control this traditionally subversive region have come and gone, the pisé walls washed away in sporadic rains. The only lasting impression has been left by the French, who made Ouarzazate their southern garrison town, laid out a grid of streets, and built modern buildings to line them. There are, however, a couple of well-preserved kasbahs in and around the town, and Ouarzazate is a great base for exploring the surrounding scenery: steep desert valleys filled with palms, leading into rocky desert plains. Close to Ouarzazate lies the spectacular ancient ksar town of Ait Ben Haddou, an extraordinary example of traditional clay-brick dwellings in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains.

Full day dedicated to exploring the pearl of the south, the second imperial city of Morocco, enjoy the cultural heritage of Marrakech, and check out how local artisans produce Kaftan.

A lively, colorful city, Marrakesh is defined by its old medina and souqs, which lattice the center and resound with the hum of craftsmanship and the tantalizing aroma of exotic spices. At the heart of the medina is the Djemaa El Fna, an open space that comes alive at night with entertainers and soothsayers amid the food stalls. Over its turbulent history, the city has fallen in and out of favor with the ruling sultans, but its function as a trading place has continued regardless. Rising above this activity are proud reminders of the city’s past in the towering minarets, ornate tombs, and cavernous palaces. These are encircled by ochre ramparts, shaded beneath palms, and framed by the distant backdrop of the Atlas Mountains. Marrakesh’s many gardens offer a haven of tranquillity in this busy city. The best known of these is the Majorelle Garden, where vibrant plants surround a striking cobalt-blue Art Deco pavilion.

In the morning, Indulge in some Lamp Crafting under the eyes of local artisans, and feel how it is to live like a Marrakech native. There is a huge range of crafts represented in distinct areas of the medina, including carved wood, embroidery, henna painting, calligraphy, ceramics, and copper. Wander the maze of souqs and you are likely to take home some great souvenirs. The stalls don’t seem to suffer from being situated amid a dozen competitors selling virtually identical spoils. Throughout the different souqs, you will quickly be able to identify the particular sights, sounds, and especially smells that are unique to each craft. Fez is best known for the production of leather goods at the iconic tanneries that feature on virtually any visual depiction of the city

Drive through the Expressway to reach the city of Essaouira, the old Portuguese capital, explore the picturesque markets, and visit the famous fish and seafood souk and the Jewish corner.

Essaouira is one of the prettiest and most relaxed towns in Morocco. Located on the Atlantic coast, it is surrounded by long stretches of beach, with wind and waves that have drawn the windsurfing and surfing communities here. They have perpetuated the laid-back atmosphere that grew in the town during the 1960s, when this undiscovered gem was a favorite retreat of artists and musicians, including Jimi Hendrix. The appeal of the town lies in the beautiful juxtaposition of the imposing Portuguese ramparts and the rolling surf of the Atlantic. At the heart of the town the harbor, fortified by the Portuguese, is home to a large fishing fleet that ensures Essaouira’s fish restaurants are amongst the best in the country. Essaouira is also famous for the woodcarving of local artisans, who sell their wares in souqs beneath the ramparts.