Premium Morocco in Depth

Intrepid Travel · 15 days

4.6

20 Reviews

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Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Energetic cities give way to wild deserts and soaring peaks on this 15-day Premium adventure through Morocco. Explore the blue washed streets of Chefchaouen, Meknes’s animated medina, the historical Old Town of Fes and the lively Djemaa el-Fna square in Marrakech.

Highlights

Embrace an escape from the modern world at your Feature Stay camp in a remote oasis among the dunes of the Sahara Desert. Enjoy comfortable beds, en suite bathrooms and authentic décor, plus a traditional feast and live music under a sky full of stars.
Indulge in some food-based Exclusive Experiences, including a picnic at the ruins of Volubilis, a cooking class in Tahanaout, a medfouna demonstration in Khemliya and a home-cooked pastilla dinner in Fes.
Get to know the Moroccan way of life as you travel with a local leader and expert guides, enjoy tea with an Amazigh family in the Dades Valley and meet the women of the Tawesna social enterprise in Ait Benhaddou.
See behind the scenes of Moroccan cuisine during a hands-on cooking class with a celebrated chef – an Exclusive Experience. Harvest fresh ingredients from the on-site organic garden, learn how to transform them into classic aromatic dishes then tuck into your creations.
Discover Morocco’s iconic sights during visits to the ruins of Volubilis, the blue city of Chefchaouen, the remarkable Sahara Desert, the timeless Ait Benhaddou and the bustling cities of Fes and Marrakech.

Trip Details

Duration

15 days

Transportation

Private Vehicle

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Casablanca, Morocco

Finishes

Marrakech, Morocco

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Casablanca

Salaam Alaikum! Welcome to Morocco. When you arrive at Casablanca Airport, you'll be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure begins at 6 pm with a welcome meeting to meet your fellow travellers and group leader. If you arrive early, maybe visit the Villa des Arts – this gorgeous art deco gallery holds numerous exhibitions of contemporary Moroccan and international art. If you’re looking for a different type of cultural experience, then you can discover a unique and fascinating part of Moroccan history at the Museum of Judaism. This evening, celebrate the beginning of a new adventure with a welcome dinner with your group in a traditional restaurant. Nowhere is Morocco’s cultural heritage more evident than in its food, and tonight you’ll have the chance to try classic dishes like tagine, couscous and pastilla.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Casablanca - Welcome Dinner

Optional Activities:

Casablanca - Villa des Arts Gallery & Museum (entrance fee) - Free
Casablanca - Jewish Museum (entrance fee) (50 MAD)
Casablanca - The Medina and Beyond Urban Adventure (700 MAD)

Accommodation:

Hotel Gray or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Meknes

This morning you’ll visit one of the most impressive sites in Casablanca – the massive Mosque of Hassan II. Second only in size to the great mosque at Mecca, the huge building sits partly on land and partly over sea and is one of the only religious sites open to non-Muslims. Later, leave Casablanca and drive north along the coast to Rabat – the elegant capital of Morocco and its first imperial city. Start your visit with a walk through the medina and souks, then explore the lovely walled quarter known as the Kasbah des Oudaias, where you’ll enjoy an included mint tea in a café overlooking the ocean and Bou Regreg River. After, continue the walk to visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the vast minaret of the Mosque of Hassan II. In the late afternoon, continue to Meknes, the former capital of Morocco.

Included Activities:

Casablanca - Hassan II Mosque
Rabat - Kasbah des Oudaias
Rabat - Hassan Tower
Rabat - Mausoleum Mohammed V

Accommodation:

Riad Ritaj or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Chefchaouen

Join your leader and explore the charming streets of Meknes’s medina – the old walled section of the city. There’s something particularly special about exploring this lesser-known medina as the locals go about their daily lives. Walk to the shrine of Moulay Ismail, visit the granaries and stop by a local market selling vegetables, olives and sweets. Drive on to the ruins of Volubilis. Once a provincial Roman capital, a distant outpost of the empire, the remains make an undeniably impressive sight. A local guide will show you around, provide expert knowledge and help you imagine the bustling city that once was. Enjoy a picnic lunch of fresh bread, cheese and seasonal fruits and olives from the market, then continue to Chefchaouen. Nestled high in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is famous for its buildings washed in bright shades of blue – this is undeniably one of the world’s prettiest cities!

Included Activities:

Meknes - Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail
Volubilis - Picnic Lunch
Volubilis - Entrance and guided tour
Meknes - Medina walking tour

Accommodation:

Dar Echchaouen or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Chefchaouen

This morning, you’ll discover Chefchaouen beneath the blue during a tour of the medina with a local guide. Tour its winding alleyways, cobbled plazas and unique doorways and find out what makes the city so alluring. Stop off for a tasting of goat’s cheese – you’ll see there’s no shortage of goats in Chefchaouen and this soft, creamy goat’s cheese is some of Morocco’s best. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore further at your own pace. You may like to snap some more pictures of the city’s blue-hued buildings, shop for handicrafts or simply sit at a cafe and enjoy the pleasure of time passing by. Speak to your leader about the option for a homecooked meal for dinner this evening.

Included Activities:

Chefchaouen - Goat Cheese Tasting
Chefchaouen - Medina walking tour

Accommodation:

Dar Echchaouen or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Fes

Say goodbye to Chefchaouen and make the journey to Fes – the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. When you arrive, take some time to unwind in a local hammam (spa) – speak to your leader for some great recommendations. This evening you’ll have the unique opportunity to see a different side of Moroccan life as you are warmly welcomed into the home-turned-restaurant of a local family for a pastilla dinner in a private after-hours experience. One of the country’s most celebrated dishes, this sweet and savoury delight is made with layered pastry and meat, cooked with eggs, caramelised onions, lemon and sugared almonds. Learn how the iconic Moroccan pie is made as you chat with your friendly hosts about life in Fes, then end the night with a traditional sweet treat.

Included Activities:

Fes - Home-cooked Pastilla Dinner

Accommodation:

Riad Houyam or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Fes

This morning, head into the Old Town, known locally as Fes el Bali. Medieval Fes was one of the world's great centres of education and culture, both Islamic and Jewish. Its religious institutions and libraries are legendary, and its mosques are renowned. Your leader will share stories of the city’s history as you walk through the twisting streets and alleyways, passing donkeys piled high with goods. Filled with historic khans, medresses and dye pits, there are stalls loaded with fruits, herbs and soups and the squawk of chickens, smells of spice and sounds of hammering copper fill the air. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the medina for a traditional mint tea in a family-owned tea house. Spend the morning exploring the old city, visiting Al-Attarine Madrasa, the tanneries and the splendid Funduk Nejjarine – a beautifully restored 18th-century inn. The afternoon is then free to explore more of what this charming city has to offer.

Included Activities:

Fes - Medina walking tour
Fes - Funduq al-Najjarin
Fes - Medersa El Attarine
Fes - Tea Break

Accommodation:

Riad Houyam or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Erfoud

Today, leave the intensity of the city behind for the desert oasis town of Erfoud. Prepare for a long driving day and have your camera ready as there will be plenty of stops to appreciate the ever-changing Moroccan landscape along the way. Wind past olive groves, shepherds tending to their flocks, forests of cedar, pine and oak, and valleys filled with date palms – all with views of the High Atlas Mountains in the distance. Arrive in Erfoud, your gateway to the Sahara Desert. Built by the French in the early 1900s, the town features tightly packed red sand buildings that blend seamlessly into the desert surroundings. While here, be sure to try some dates fresh from the local market – the dates in Erfoud are so delicious they celebrate them with a festival every year.

Accommodation:

Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Merzouga

Spend the morning exploring Khemliya – a village on the fringe of the orange-coloured Erg Chebbi sand dunes. This traditional Saharan village is known for its distinctive style of music and dance. For lunch today you’ll get to see how the local speciality dish of medfouna is made, and then sample some yourself. Then, it’s time to do as the locals do and ride a camel through the desert towards your Feature Stay accommodation – a spectacular camp hidden away in the sand dunes of the Sahara. Here in this magical escape from the modern world, you’ll experience the true essence of desert life. The remote location doesn’t mean skimping on amenities – permanent tents feature large beds, en suite bathrooms and delightful, authentic decor. Tonight, enjoy a traditional feast beneath the North African sky, jewelled with thousands of stars, followed by live Gnaoua music around an open fire.

Included Activities:

Sahara Desert - Camel ride
Khemliya - Village walking tour
Khemliya - Medfouna cooking demonstration
Sahara Desert - Amazigh dinner with Gnaoua music

Accommodation:

Golden Camp (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Dades

Start the day with a truly unforgettable desert sunrise, watching the landscape turn remarkable shades of orange. After breakfast drive to Todra Gorge – a massive trench that rises over 250 m to form one of the most dramatic and spectacular natural sights in Morocco. The limestone stacks make a perfect area for hiking, and so to make the most of the stunning surroundings, you’ll take a short and gentle walk through the gorge. Then, continue to the beautiful Dades Valley – your base for the next two nights. This area offers up scenery like no other – sprawling green valleys give way to rock formations carved out by the wind. Your accommodation offers a pool and terrace, so take some time to sit back and soak in the views.

Included Activities:

Todra Gorge - Hike

Accommodation:

Hotel Xaluca or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Dades

You have a full day to explore the beauty of this largely untouched Moroccan backcountry today, and the best way is on foot. There are a couple of circuits in the area – there’s the option to tackle a 10 km circuit that will take about 4 hours, but your leader can tailor the route based on the preferences of the group. Take a short transfer to the start of the trek, then set out with a local guide. The trail undulates and can be challenging in sections but is accessible to everyone with a basic level of fitness. Stop in a village along the way and enjoy tea with a local Amazigh family. This experience offers a unique glimpse into the Amazigh way of life that few visitors to Morocco have the chance to see. Set against the sensational backdrop of the surrounding mountains and famous Rose Valley, take the opportunity to share stories and learn about family life in the Dades Valley.

Included Activities:

Dades - Tea-making demonstration
Dades - Hike

Accommodation:

Hotel Xaluca or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Ait Benhaddou

Depart the Dades Valley and set off on the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs. Your first stop is Skoura Oasis – home to several privately owned kasbahs, including the Kasbah Ameridhl, with extravagant decorations and mud-brick fortifications. Continue to Ait Benhaddou – a hilltop site almost unchanged since the 11th century. Its grand kasbah is one of the most beautiful in Morocco and the fortified village is a fine example of clay architecture. You may recognise the site from Game of Thrones or its long list of film credits. Walk through the winding streets of the Old Town, making your way to the top of the hill for some scenic views. Visit Taman’Art Space, an art studio and cultural centre created by a local artist. Meet with the artist and founder and talk about his methods, inspiration and process, all while sipping a cup of tea on the terrasse, surrounded by gorgeous views. After, visit Tawesna – a local teahouse on the river – for a tasty lunch including freshly made Amazigh bread, soup, Moroccan sweets and mint tea. This community-run establishment provides women with a small income to support themselves and their children. The women use natural ingredients sourced from local cooperatives to prepare the tea and pastries, taking great pride in sharing their stories and giving visitors an authentic Amazigh experience.

Included Activities:

Skoura - Kasbah and Oasis visit
Ait Benhaddou - Leader-led ksar walk
Ait Benhaddou - Lunch at Tawesna
Ait Benhaddou - Taman’Art Space Studio Visit

Accommodation:

Riad Tamdakht or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Ouirgane

Leave Ait Benhaddou after breakfast and drive through the winding roads of the Atlas Mountains. You can take your time as the scenery is magnificent and keen photographers may call for a few photo stops. Your destination today is Ouirgane – sitting in the tranquil foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, this village provides visitors with an alternative and less-visited base for walking. With its gentle winter climate and moderate summer, it’s a great place to stroll around the nearby red-earth hills and pine forests, watch a wide variety of bird life or just sit back and relax at an altitude of 1000 m with a view of Mount Toubkal in the background. Speak to your leader about some hiking options this afternoon with a local guide.

Accommodation:

Chez Momo or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Marrakech

Travel to the nearby town of Tahanaout, where you’ll take a hands-on cooking class with a celebrated local chef. You’ll explore his organic kitchen garden surrounded by beautiful olive groves and orchards set in a traditional Amazigh douar. Harvest ingredients fresh from the garden and let the chef teach you the art of seasoning with aromatic Moroccan herbs. Learn to cook tagines and salads, then savour your creations over lunch. After the feast, continue to Marrakech. When you arrive, check in to your beautifully decorated riad. This evening, why not head to the great square of Djemaa el-Fna – one of the largest public spaces in the world, When night falls, it transforms into a hive of activity. You may like to finish your day with a cup of tea at one of the roof-top restaurants overlooking the square.

Included Activities:

Tahnaout - Cooking class

Accommodation:

2Ciels Boutique Hotel & Spa or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Marrakech

After breakfast today, meet with a local guide who will bring the magic of Marrakech to life as you set off on a morning tour of the old medina, through the bustling souks that are the lifeblood of the city. Explore tranquil courtyards filled with the scent of orange blossom and the many salons and chambers that make up Bahia Palace. Stop by the Koutoubia Mosque – the inside is for Muslims only, but the famous minaret is a sight to behold. Walk back through the streets of the old medina to Djemaa el-Fna, stopping off to taste some of the marvellous freshly squeezed orange juice from a local stall – this is sure to be one of the most delicious glasses of orange juice you’ve ever tasted! The rest of the day is free to explore. Maybe visit Le Jardin Secret – a traditional medina garden with a magnificent courtyard – or head back into the medina and practice your haggling skills. For your final evening, maybe join your group for a farewell dinner. Your leader will be able to recommend some fantastic local restaurants.

Included Activities:

Marrakech - Medina walking tour
Marrakech - Palais Bahia
Marrakech - Fresh orange juice tasting
Marrakech - Farewell Dinner

Accommodation:

2Ciels Boutique Hotel & Spa or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Marrakech

Your trip ends today after breakfast, so you’re free to leave at any time after check out. If you’ve arranged a private airport transfer, you’ll be advised of the pick-up time. If you’d like to extend your stay in Marrakech, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Optional Activities:

Marrakech - Heart of the Atlas Mountains cycling day trip with lunch (2000 MAD)
Marrakech - Asni & Ouirgane day trip with lunch (1806 MAD)
Marrakech - Imlil & Aroumd day trip (1817 MAD)
Marrakech - Hot Air Balloon Ride (1999 MAD)
Marrakech - Tajine Cookery Class Urban Adventure (640 MAD)

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $5,575

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 15 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 31 Jan 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

5.0

Trinka

Traveled, March 2024

04/06/2024

Premier Morocco in depth was probably the best trip I’ve experienced. It was exciting, informative and also relaxing all in one. From camel rides to Medinas and plenty of shopping opportunities if you choose. Excellent!

4.5

Russell

Traveled, March 2024

04/06/2024

Could not get over the changing scenery. The trip was all fantastic. Our leader Said and driver Mustafa were excellent. Thanks to them

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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