morocco
sand, souks + spices (11 Days)

Day 1 | Arrive in Tangier (TNG) any time | Meet our local rep who will welcome you to Morocco and ensure a smooth transition through the airport and transfer to the hotel.

Hotel: Rembrandt or similar 

Day 2 | TANGIER | After breakfast, meet your local guide and the rest of the group for an orientation (9am). Head out to discover the city of Tangier and its surroundings, including the Spartel Cape and Hercules Caves, with your private driver and English speaking guide. Marvel at the picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean and famed Strait of Gibraltar. Mingle through the Kasbah district near the port, before heading towards the old Medina. Visit some of the many shops that line the streets of the Medina and find unique handicrafts. Pass the Grand Sacco and the Mendoubia Park believed to contain the fossil remains of ancient creatures (like dragon bones). Visit the Petit Sacco with its multitudes of famous artists including Matisse, Camille Saint Saens, and Paul Bowles. End the day with a relaxing mint tea in a local cafe, savouring the essence of Tangier. 

DAY 3 | TANGIER - CHEFCHOUEN - VOLUBILIS - FES | This morning, set out on the drive (approx 2 hours) to the 15th century village of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains (the iconic blue city!).

Chefchaouen is renowned for its enchanting blue lime washed houses, bustling squares, and winding alleyways, invites discovery through leisurely strolls that allow you to soak in its unique atmosphere Nestled into the sides of two mountains, this holy town captivates with its distinctive charm, vividly reflected in the cobblestone medina of Outa el Hammam square.

Explore the streets, unfolding blue and white lime-washed houses to create picturesque scenes. Experience the allure in the Andalusian architecture, the Kasbah's walls and gardens. See collections of embroideries and vibrant regional attire, reminiscent of those worn by local women, come to life It was in Chefchaouen that the iconic Djellaba the long and flowing garment embraced by both men and women in North Africa, was first created Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the locals by visiting a craftsman's workshop, where the town's expertise in weaving, basket making, and pottery is showcased with pride.

On our way to Fes, we'll stop in Voluliblis, Morocco's most important Roman town that lies sprawled over a wildflower-dotted hillside in the wide Meknes plain beneath the crags of the Zerhoun Mountains. Listen to the stories of the ruins you see in front of you - this is a site that can't be missed.

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Hotel: Riad Myra or similar 

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DAY 4 | FES | Wake up, have a delicious breakfast and set out to explore the meandering streets of this city known for its artisans and handicrafts. Old meets new on a guided tour of the city as you wander from the 14th century Royal Palace gates to the city gate that was newly built in 1913. Feel like you're stepping back in time into Medieval Morocco at a medina that feels like it hasn't changed in the last 500 years. After lunch, continue exploring with our local guide who will show you an impressive medersa in the heart of the medina and the well-known University of Al-Karaouine. 

Free evening with your new friends in Fes! 

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OPTIONAL: 

In the early afternoon, explore the rich flavours of Moroccan cuisines from savoury delights to unique specialties. Immerse yourself in the vibrant markets and eateries of this historic city. We will be sampling diverse olives, dates and dry fruits, exploring the variety of spices, trying honey and preserved meats, navigating the vegetable market, seeing the baking process at a bakery.

Traditional snacks:  broad bean puree, Makouda (deep fried potato balls), and spicy fried sardines.

End with a visit to a traditional mint tea cafe and a quarter known for its local pastries (like almonds and "trid" crepes).

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DAY 5 | FES - MERZOUGA VIA MIDELT-ERRACHIDIA-ERFOUD | After breakfast, our journey takes us south, traversing the plains beyond Fes and winding through the Middle Atlas mountain range. En route, we'll pause to explore the cedar forest and the Swiss inspired town of Ifrane , nestled near a charming ski resort. Continuing our adventure, we'll pass through Azrou, a quintessential Berber town surrounded by forests that serve as the habitat for Barbary apes. Midway, we'll take a break in the town of Midelt for lunch. Midelt is situated at an elevation of 5000 feet between the High Atlas and Middle Atlas Mountains. Formerly a mining town, it is now regarded as the region's apple crop capital in Morocco. In the early afternoon, we'll set our sights on Rachidia, a pre desert town. Along the way, we'll encounter the tents of nomadic shepherds and their flocks of goats and sheep. Our journey will include picturesque stops along the magnificent gorges of the Ziz Valley, passing through rows of towering palm trees and mud made fortified villages before reaching Erfoud. From Erfoud , our adventure takes an exciting turn as we board 4x4 vehicles for a desert expedition into the sands of Merzouga. We'll finish the day with an epic desert sunset and dinner at camp. 

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Overnight: Auberge du Sud or similar