Journeys: Morocco in Depth
15 days, Casablanca to Marrakech
Itinerary
Day 1Casablanca
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer included. Sit down to a welcome dinner.
Please note that this tour does not spend any time in Casablanca.
You may wish to come a day early in order to explore Casablanca, and take some time to see its medina, beachfront, and classic examples of Art Deco architecture.
Be sure to also visit the spectacular Hassan II Mosque. Entrance is only permitted via guided tours, which operate from Saturday to Thursday (closed Fridays) at 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, and 14:00. These times are subject to change (particularly around Ramadan), please double check times with your hotel. Tickets can be purchased at the mosque.
In the evening, there will be a brief meeting where you will meet your CEO and fellow group members to go over the details of the tour. Afterwards, go out for a welcome dinner in a nearby local restaurant.
Please note that if you are traveling to Morocco between November and February, your tour will have a level of flexibility based off of winter weather conditions on roads in the mountains. Heavy snow is not uncommon, so plan on packing warmer clothing to suit conditions.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2Casablanca/Fès
Take a guided tour of the imperial city of Meknes. Continue on to the ruins of Volubilis, the best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco. After seeing the ruins, it’s off to Fes.
Meknes is one of the four Imperial cities and its name and fame are closely linked to that of the Moroccan Sultan Moulay Ismail, who made Meknes the centre of his empire and built many of the monuments that remain today.
Continue through the rolling hills to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, the best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco. Once an important Roman town situated near the westernmost border of Roman conquests, Volubilis was listed as an UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.
Continue to Fes to spend the night. Stay in the the new city of Fes, built by the French during their Protectorate of Morocco.
This is a long and busy day. The times listed are actual driving times and do not include stops. We will stop to explore Meknes and Volubilis, and not arrive in Fes until the evening.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meknès City Tour
Enjoy a guided visit of the Imperial City of Meknes. The least visited of the Imperial cities; Meknes has a unique feel to it. Visit the Bab Mansour historic landmark, and 18th-century Bab El Khmiss, the ornamental gate to the city. Wander the bustling souk to browse the vast array of clothes, spices, handicrafts, and of course food. The visit also includes stops at Dar Jamai: The National Museum of Music and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.
Volubilis Guided Tour
Listen to a certified local guide explain life in the Roman Empire at this UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the impressive, well-preserved Roman ruins. Peer into old bathhouses, marvel at the still-present mosaic floors, and gaze up at towering marble pillars. Hear stories about life in this Roman city that will leave you in awe of just how far their empire stretched.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 3Fès
Step back in time and embark on a walking tour of a UNESCO World Heritage Site — the Medina of Fes. Explore winding lanes and alleys to visit the many artisans, tanneries, and shops with an expert local guide. After, enjoy a G Adventures-supported traditional tagine lunch at a cooperative that benefits rural Moroccan women and children. This evening, visit a nearby café where we meet a local expert in Islamic calligraphy for a demonstration on "beautiful writing".
Fès Medina Guided Tour
Follow a local guide through the Fès medina, one of the world’s largest medinas with more than 9000 winding streets lying within 365 hectares. See buildings in the medina that date back to the 9th century; there are 350 mosques in the medina that are still in use today.
Enter through one of the great gates into the chaos. Explore the artisans’ quarters as well as the many carpenters, bakers, butchers, and spice sellers. Visit the mausoleum and the Al Qarawiyin University.
A highlight of the tour is the view of the famous Fès tannery from the balcony of a leather shop, where you can observe the men hard at work treating and dyeing the different hides. Take some time to shop for leather goods before returning to your hotel.
Your G for Good Moment: AFER Association Community Lunch
Enjoy a G Adventures-supported traditional lunch that benefits rural Moroccan women and children with disabilities. The association provides vital services including literacy and vocational training, health services, disability assistance, and the operation of a local ambulance. AFER’s training center hosts culinary programs recognized by the state, and each year it graduates 30 students, many of whom go on to work in the project. Through this work, AFER creates sustainable employment, fosters community cohesion, and showcases Moroccan culture to travellers. During your visit, enjoy a traditional home-cooked Moroccan meal, featuring classic dishes such as vegetable tagine or roasted chicken with onion sauce, and meet some of the women that are part of this important community program. This experience not only supports livelihoods but also celebrates Moroccan heritage and rural resilience.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Islamic Calligraphy Class
Visit a local cafe where we meet a local expert in Islamic calligraphy. Calligraphy means “beautiful writing” and Arabic calligraphy (or more properly, Islamic calligraphy) is considered a high art form in the Arab world. Our expert explains the basics and provides a demonstration and then with with some paper, a bamboo carved calligraphy stick and some ink, try your hand at mimicking the master’s elegant sweeps and flicks of the brush to write Arabic letters.
Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow
Fes Hammam Visit
200-400MAD per personIndulge in some traditional relaxation. Similar to a Turkish bath, visit the hammam to be washed, scrubbed and pampered. Part social gathering, part cultural ritual; don’t miss this cleansing experience.
Medersa Bou Inania
10MAD per personCompleted in 1358, this educational institution is an impressive example of classic Moroccan decorative techniques.
Medersa el Attarine
20MAD per personThis educational institution was founded in 1325 deep in the Fés medina. Marvel at the Merenid artisanship found on nearly every surface of the courtyard.
Belghazi Museum
20MAD per personHoused in an exquisite 17th-century building, the gallery showcases different art styles passed through generations in Morocco, such as ceramics, embroidery, instruments, and costumes. Climb up to the rooftop for a panoramic view of the city.
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 4Fès/Marrakech
Travel to Marrakech. In the evening, experience all the colour and chaos with a visit to the famous Djemaa el Fna square. Watch storytellers and acrobats as you enjoy a simple and delicious local meal at a market food stall.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your Foodie Moment: Djemaa el Fna Market Square Visit
Wander past fresh orange juice stalls and water sellers in colourful costumes reminiscent of an era past. See storytellers, magicians, and peddlers of traditional medicines as the day progresses. When the sun sets, the square fills with dozens of food stalls, and is packed with locals, entertaining chefs, and waiters. Grab a spot on a bench with other diners and try the “tanjia” (slow cooked lamb), harira soup, grilled seafood, famous Moroccan couscous, tajine, snails, or even sheep’s head (for the truly adventurous). Wash it all down with some spiced tea.
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 5Marrakech
In the morning, take a historical tour of the city, including the Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs. After, visit a historic riad for a hands-on cooking class from a master Moroccan chef, and enjoy the lunch that you have prepared.
Marrakech Medina Walk and Spice Shop
Let a local guide show you the best of Marrekech. Head into the maze of tiny streets and alleyways of the ancient medina to really get a taste of everyday life in Marrakech. See the Koutoubia Minaret and head to a spice shop to discover an array of Moroccan spices.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Moroccan Foodie Experience
With its unusual combination of cultures – Amazigh (also known as Berber), French, Jewish, Andalucian – Morocco is known for some incredible flavours that visitors talk about (and miss) long after they return home. In the heart of bustling Marrakech, visit a historic riad for a hands-on cooking class led by a renowned Moroccan chef who will discuss key ingredients and techniques. From the making of different salads to measuring out spices for a mind-blowing tagine, learn the culinary tricks of a master while preparing lunch as a group, which we’ll all sit down to eat (and marvel at).
Free Time
Head out and explore the markets and souks.
Optional Activities - Day 5 HideShow
Ali Ben Youssef Medersa
40MAD per personVisit this Islamic college founded in the early 14th century, which is now a museum displaying the buildings ornate mosaics, marble tiling, stucco work, and woodcarving.
Musée de Marrakech
50MAD per personWander around the salons of the ornate Mnebhi Palace displaying various collections of Moroccan art forms.
El Badi Palace
70MAD per personVisit the ruins of what was once the most ornate palace of the 16th-century. Its sunken gardens and pools give a glimpse into its former glory.
Traditional Moroccan Dinner with Folklore Entertainment
Experience a traditional 3-course dinner in the heart of the medina of Marrakech - Djemma El Fana square - and enjoy a folklore performance.
Koubba Ba’adiyn
40MAD per personVisit one of the lasting relics preserved after the destructive Almohad rule - a 12th-century shrine displaying the sophistication of earlier Almoravid architecture and design.
Dar Si Said
30MAD per personStanding as a monument to master Moroccan artisans, this complex houses the Museum of Moroccan arts. Here, you will find displays of ancient weaponry, carpets, Amazigh (also known as Berber) jewellery, granary doors and more. Make sure to see the highlight of a visit to this museum, the painted, domed wedding-reception chamber.
Jardins Majorelle
200MAD per personVisit this enchanting garden in the heart of the city designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle (1886-1962). Follow the pathways through trees, exotic plants, streams, and pools while watching the numerous birds who call this peaceful paradise home. (Please note that the entrance fee to Musée Yves Saint Laurent is an additional 30 MAD.)
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 6Marrakech/Aït Ben Haddou
Travel to Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Atlas Mountains, and explore this ancient “Kasbah" (fortress) village.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah Tour
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site and kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, the most famous ksar in the Ounila Valley, located in the foothills of the southern slopes of the High Atlas Mountains. Of all the remaining kasbahs in Morocco, the walls and interior of this area are the most intact. It's a collective grouping of dwellings inside defensive walls and was once one of the many trading posts on the route linking Sudan to Marrakech. The kasbah still houses a few families, but many now live in the adjacent village. Like many of the earthen built fortresses in Ouarzazate, Aït Ben Haddou has been used in many film and television productions like Gladiator, Babel, and Game of Thrones.
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 7Aït Ben Haddou/Erg Chigaga
Travel through the Draa Valley to Zagora and venture into the desert on 4x4s. Stop at Tamegroute to visit the library of ancient Islamic texts and local pottery makers. Continue off-road to the great dunes of Erg Chigaga to our comfortable desert camp. Opt to take a camel ride or to climb to the top of the dunes for views of the vast Sahara. Enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars.
Spend the night in a simple desert camp which provides a peak into traditional desert living. Each tent is outfitted with sheets, pillows, a raised bed, towels, and covers against the desert cold and it has a separated ensuite with simple portable toilette and wash basin. While the accommodation is basic, it is quite comfortable and offers a truly unique experience.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Tamegroute Visit
Visit Tamegroute, a small village in the Draa River Valley. Discover its history as an important centre of learning and religion while visiting the library of ancient Islamic texts. The town is also famed for its ceramics. Watch artists at work at a local pottery studio.
4x4
Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
Camel Ride
Hold on and enjoy a ride on this even-toed ungulate, also known as the desert horse. Bring your camera for some fantastic photos of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Meals included:
Breakfast | Lunch | DinnerDay 8Erg Chigaga/Zagora
Cross the desert back to Zagora and enjoy a talk on the history of the Draa region. You’ll also get to visit some of the local historical sites.
4x4
Roads? Where this rough-and-ready vehicle's going, we don't need roads.
Zagora Orientation Tour
Explore this small desert outpost town that’s famous as a starting point for desert caravans. Learn about the history of the town and the Draa region with visits to some historical spots.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 9Zagora/Taroudant
Head towards the Anti-Atlas region to the carpet towns of Tazenakht and Taliouine, where saffron is harvested. In Taroudant, visit the famed leather tanneries and local markets.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Taroudant Markets Visit
Explore the markets of Taroudant, which is known as a market town frequented by Amazigh traders.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 10Taroudant/Tafraout
Enter the Anti-Atlas region to view natural rock formations. In the afternoon, explore the town centre and its local markets.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Tafraout Orientation walk
Take an orientation walk in Tafraoute, a lovely oasis city in the Anti-Atlas Mountains. Discover local sights and friendly locals while exploring.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 11Tafraout
Visit Aït Mansour Gorge, the Painted Rocks, and the Chapeau du Napoleon. Walk through a palm valley and have lunch in a local village house.
Aït Mansour Gorge and Area Tour
Enjoy an excursion through the stunning landscapes of the region with stops at Aït Mansour Gorge and the Chapeau du Napoleon.
Lunch at Local Village House
Enjoy homemade local specialties for lunch in a local family's home.
Palm Valley Walk
Soak in stunning scenery on a walk through a palm grove.
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 12Tafraout/Essaouira
Travel to the Atlantic coast to the port town of Essaouira. Opt to visit a local “hammam” (traditional spa and steam baths).
Essaouira is also famous for its music scene and offers a great chance to check out a live performance.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Optional Activities - Day 12 HideShow
Essaouira Hammam Visit
Visit a hammam, a great way to get squeaky clean and soothe sore muscles. Enjoy a body scrub and massage in a traditional Moroccan bathhouse. Begin with a dry or hot room to prepare your skin and body, followed by a hot steam room. Enjoy a body scrub and massage followed by a traditional mint tea.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 13Essaouira
Enjoy a day of leisure in this coastal city. Watch the colourful and lively spectacle of the return of the boats to the port with their baskets full of fish. Pick out the best of the bunch, which we’ll take to a local restaurant to cook up for our lunch. Opt to browse the shops and art galleries or take a stroll along the long, sandy beach. The active might choose to take a surfing or windsurfing lesson, or rent a fishing rod.
Free Time
Enjoy your day of leisure.
Optional Activities - Day 13 HideShow
Windsurfing
60EUR per personRide the waves at this windsurfer's paradise. Try taking a lesson if you’re new to the sport. The reliable strong winds can be challenging.
Surfing
695-990MAD per person900-2700MAD per groupHead out to catch some waves and enjoy the surf and fresh sea air.
Shopping
Pop into brightly coloured shops selling leather shoes and purses, slippers, scarves, Moroccan lanterns, and mosaics...you name it. Visit an artists' co-op and shop for handmade silver jewellery. Try not to get overwhelmed by choice – with dozens of shops lining the narrow winding streets, there's a lot to choose from.
Kite Surfing (Group Lesson)
1100-1650MAD per person1650-3300MAD per groupJoin a 2-hour group lesson to get a grip on this sport, then take hold of the winds on your own.
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 14Essaouira/Marrakech
Return to Marrakech and visit the Menara Gardens and the Jardin Majorelle. Opt to enjoy a farewell dinner at a palace-style restaurant with local folkloric entertainment.
In the afternoon, have free time to further explore the fascinating city of Marrakech and dive into the labyrinthine souks. Visitors and locals alike find everything they desire here, whether it’s spices, traditional jalabas and slippers, or famous Moroccan lanterns. The selection is exhaustive. Don’t forget to bargain. It's definitely part of the fun. Once you’ve tired yourself out, relax at one of the tea houses around the square, indulge in the ubiquitous sweet mint tea and watch life go by from a shady spot.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Menara Gardens Visit
Visit the stunning and historic Menara Gardens, which were built in the 12th century by the Almohad ruler Abd al-Mu'min. Explore the intricate designs along paths and trails in this peaceful oasis in the city.
Jardins Majorelle
Visit this enchanting garden in the heart of the city designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle (1886-1962). Follow the pathways through trees, exotic plants, streams, and pools while watching the numerous birds who call this peaceful paradise home. (Please note that the entrance fee to Musée Yves Saint Laurent is an additional 30 MAD.)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 15Marrakech
Depart at any time.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.