Highlights
- Visit the city, mountains, desert, and coast of Morocco in a week
- Stay in luxury 4- and 5-star hotels, kasbahs, desert camps, and riads
- Ride a camel in the Agafay Desert, and a horse on the beach at Essaouira
- Float in a hot-air balloon high above Marrakesh at sunrise
- Meet local Berber people as you hike in Toubkal National Park
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Marrakesh, Dinner & Show at Azar Restaurant | Marrakesh |
| Day 2 | Half-Day Marrakesh Tour, Explore the Exquisite Gardens of Marrakesh | Marrakesh |
| Day 3 | Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon Ride, Transfer to Imlil, Trek in Toubkal National Park | Imlil |
| Day 4 | Transfer to Agafay Desert via Ourika Valley, Camel Ride | Agafay |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Essaouira, La Madada Dining Experience | Essaouira |
| Day 6 | Half-Day Essaouira Tour, Cooking Class at Madada Atelier | Essaouira |
| Day 7 | Horseback Riding at Essaouira Beach, Transfer to Marrakesh & Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Marrakesh, Dinner & Show at Azar Restaurant
Welcome to Morocco! Your luxury vacation begins with a seamless arrival and immigration journey through Marrakesh airport. A personal chauffeur will greet you for your private transfer to one of Marrakesh's most luxurious hotels, the 5-star El Fenn. Take your time exploring the three swimming pools, mammoth roof terrace, lavish spa, two cocktail bars, and two restaurants. You can even meet the resident family of tortoises. Stay within this boutique sanctuary, or venture out to the energetic Jemaa el-Fna square, where storytellers, snake charmers, and street food take over in the evening.
Day 2: Half-Day Marrakesh Tour, Explore the Exquisite Gardens of Marrakesh
Immerse yourself in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and scents as you discover Marrakesh with a local guide this morning. Your private half-day tour begins at the illustrious Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of carved wooden ceilings, tiled courtyards, and serene gardens. Venture by the Koutoubia Mosque, the symbol of Marrakesh, then follow your guide into the colorful medina, a maze of alleyways lined with riads, souks, and workshops. They'll help you bargain for vibrant textiles, aromatic spices, ornate jewelry, and leather goods before stopping for refreshments.
Later you'll join a special garden tour of Marrakesh, starting at Le Jardin Secret (The Secret Garden), a hidden gem nestled deep within Marrakesh. Your private guide will lead you into a haven of tranquility with vibrant flowers, intricate tilework, and serene fountains. Next, visit the Menara Garden, a peaceful oasis centered around an expansive reflecting pool, perfectly framed by the Atlas mountains and groves of fruit and olive trees.
Continue to the Agdal Garden, a meticulously manicured oasis where symmetry and Mediterranean plants reign supreme. Finally, conclude at the world-famous Majorelle Garden, where vibrant colors, exotic plants, and an intricate fusion of Islamic and Art Deco design elements await. As you stroll the garden's meandering paths, gain insight into the life and legacy of Jacques Majorelle, the visionary behind this botanical wonder. After, you're free to explore the cool Gueliz neighborhood or return to your hotel.
Day 3: Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon Ride, Transfer to Imlil, Trek in Toubkal National Park
Witness the desert landscape of Marrakesh from above with an exclusive hot-air balloon ride this morning. Despite the early wake-up call, it's worth it to see the sunrise over the red desert. The serene atmosphere created by the pastel colors, soft lighting, and crisp early-morning air offers a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city below. Admire the shifting scenery as the Koutoubia Mosque and the Atlas mountains become miniature marvels in the distance. A traditional Moroccan breakfast awaits you on the ground, bringing you back to earth.
Later this morning, a private driver will take you from the buzzing city to the tranquility of the mountains at Imlil, a 90-minute drive away. On your journey deep into the High Atlas, you'll pass through the Asni Valley, famous for its apple, walnut, almond, and peach trees, and gaze over snowy summits as you take in the beauty of the Tahnaout Valley. Wind through the Moulay Brahim Gorge into the heart of Toubkal National Park. Admire the views of rugged peaks, sweeping valleys, and traditional mud-brick Berber villages before you arrive at Imlil.
Check into the 4-star Kasbah du Toubkal, your home for tonight. The kasbah overlooks three major valleys and majestic peaks that rise over 13,000 feet (4,000 m). Refresh and get ready for a short hike through the park. Imlil has become a popular base for hikers, and this afternoon you'll traverse narrow mountain paths, breathe in crisp mountain air, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the wild. As you walk, you'll meet members of the warm Berber community and learn about their customs, traditions, and routines before pausing to share a meal with a local family.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Transfer to Agafay Desert via Ourika Valley, Camel Ride
Swap the tranquility of the mountains for the barren landscapes of the Agafay Desert, a two-hour transfer away. You'll pass through the Ourika Valley, known for its waterfalls, and stop for a short 90-minute guided trek to explore one of them. Next, you'll meet local Berber women who extract oil from the argan nut before visiting a traditional Berber home to learn more about the Indigenous people of this area and enjoy a delicious lunch. As you eat and speak with the family, enjoy spectacular views over the Sidi Fares Valley from their terrace.
Finally, you'll reach the unique, barren landscapes of the Agafay Desert, where your 5-star luxury desert camp, the White Camel Lodge, awaits with a warm welcome of mint tea. After settling in, you'll mount a camel for a rhythmic ride through the arid, rocky plateau. Experience complete serenity and a beautiful sunset far away from the busy city. You'll return to camp in time for a traditional Moroccan dinner and campfire under the stars.
Day 5: Transfer to Essaouira, La Madada Dining Experience
Essaouira, often referred to as the "White Pearl," awaits you with its coastal charm and vibrant atmosphere. This city has a long history of diverse influences, from Indigenous Berbers and Phoenicians to Romans, and today it's a hub for the artsy and young surfer crowd. You'll take a comfortable 2.5-hour private transfer from your desert camp to the coastal city. Check into the 5-star Sofitel Essaouira Mogador, an expansive 175-room golf resort and spa.
This afternoon is yours to do as you please. Lose yourself in the narrow streets of the medina, where vibrant shops and bustling souks offer a treasure trove of traditional products and local crafts. Venture down to the beach to catch sea breezes and relax on the golden sands. Tee-off at the Sofitel's golf course, designed by Gary Player. Seek out local art museums. Later this evening, you'll join a luxury dining experience at La Madada. The menu is a true celebration of Moroccan cuisine, so savor every bite while you enjoy warm hospitality and live music.
Day 6: Half-Day Essaouira Tour, Cooking Class at Madada Atelier
Explore Essaouira today with a knowledgeable private guide, starting at the clock tower in the fortified medina, which covers an impressive 75 acres (30 ha). Visit the Jewish Mellah, admire the Skala de la Kasbah fortress, stroll along ancient ramparts, discover the Orson Welles Garden, and immerse yourself in the raucous souk. Visit the bustling port, where fishermen skillfully unload their daily catch and traditional blue boats dot the harbor. Throughout, your private guide will share historical anecdotes and bring Essaouira's stories to life.
After almost a week of eating spice-infused Moroccan cuisine, it's time to join an immersive cooking workshop. At Madada Atelier, an expert Moroccan chef will guide you through the secrets of local ingredients, aromatic spices, and authentic cooking methods. Visit a local market to select the best ingredients, then return to the kitchen to learn how to make your favorite classic dishes, such as tajines, couscous, pastilla, and fragrant salads. After the session, you'll sit down in the garden to savor a delicious lunch with drinks.
Day 7: Horseback Riding at Essaouira Beach, Transfer to Marrakesh & Depart
On your final morning in Morocco, you'll jump in the saddle to explore the sandy dunes and coastal landscapes of Essaouira by horseback. After meeting your gentle steed, you'll trot along Essaouira's long stretches of sand, enjoying the ocean breeze and smell of the sea. Your equine guide will show you the quieter, secluded areas beyond the tourist track where the wilderness will reveal itself. If you have the experience and confidence, you'll be able to gallop across the sand before saying goodbye to both your horse and Essaouira.
As your Moroccan adventure draws to a close, enjoy a comfortable and convenient three-hour private transfer to Marrakesh airport. Sit back and relax as you pass the stunning landscapes and contemplate your luxurious weeklong journey. Safe travels!More Great Morocco Itineraries
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