Highlights
- Stay exclusively in luxury 5-star hotels, riads, and resorts
- Start in Tangier and follow the coastline down to Essaouira
- Relax by the sea with private coastal experiences like kitesurfing
- Indulge your inner foodie with top-tier restaurants
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Tangier, Café Hafa | Tangier |
| Day 2 | Tales of Tangier Tour, Hercules Caves | Tangier |
| Day 3 | Transfer to Rabat, Half-Day Guided Tour, Dinner at La Tour Hassan Palace | Rabat |
| Day 4 | Transfer to Oualidia via El Jadida, Dine at La Table de La Sultana | Oualidia |
| Day 5 | Oualidia's Fauna, Flora & Sustainability, Weekly Market, La Sultana Spa | Oualidia |
| Day 6 | Transfer to Essaouira | Essaouira |
| Day 7 | Tour Essaouira, Kitesurfing at Sidi Kaouki, La Madada Dining Experience | Essaouira |
| Day 8 | Transfer to Marrakesh, Dine at L'Italien | Marrakesh |
| Day 9 | Tour Marrakesh, Hammam Retreat, Fine Dining at Le Palais Soleiman | Marrakesh |
| Day 10 | Depart Marrakesh |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Tangier, Café Hafa
Welcome to Tangier, the gateway between Africa and Europe. Your Moroccan luxury vacation begins with a seamless VIP arrival and immigration journey through Tangier's airport. A personal chauffeur will greet you for a private transfer to one of Tangier's finest luxury hotels, the 5-star Grand Hotel Villa de France, which dates to the 18th century. Here impeccable service and aesthetics combine with lavish, sophisticated interiors. Settle in and relax.
This afternoon you'll visit the famous Café Hafa, a symbol of Tangier's international, bohemian, and free-spirited character. For more than 100 years, this legendary spot has played host to celebrities and writers, including The Rolling Stones. Unassuming and devoid of extravagance, this traditional venue boasts one remarkable feature that sets it apart—its breathtaking views. Find a spot on the staggered terrace and gaze out over the Strait of Gibraltar, where Europe and Africa converge.
Day 2: Tales of Tangier Tour, Hercules Caves
Tangier has long served as a gateway between continents, and today's exclusive private tour will reveal the alluring cultural diversity and famous landmarks of this Moroccan city. Meander through the labyrinthine alleyways hearing stories and anecdotes of the city's past and present. Visit the iconic Grand Socco square, peaceful Mendoubia Gardens, and the historic kasbah perched atop a hill. Pause at a restaurant or café to savor local dishes and refreshing mint tea before parting ways with your private guide.
This afternoon, visit one of Morocco's most famous natural landmarks—the Caves of Hercules. Located just 8 miles (14 km) from the city center, mythology has it that Hercules retired there once his exploits were accomplished and that he created the Strait of Gibraltar by moving the mountains.
Day 3: Transfer to Rabat, Half-Day Guided Tour, Dinner at La Tour Hassan Palace
After breakfast, you'll embark on a 2.5-hour private transfer to Rabat, the elegant capital of Morocco. Leave Tangier behind and roll through the scenic landscapes of northern Morocco, passing fertile farmlands and quaint villages. On arrival, you'll check into one of Rabat's most prestigious hotels, the Hôtel La Tour Hassan Palace. Savor a glass of traditional mint tea, a symbol of a warm welcome, then meet your private guide for a private tour of the city.
Uncover hidden gems and history as you wander by UNESCO World Heritage-listed white architecture that defines the city's charm. Visit the Royal Palace, and delve into the Chellah Necropolis, a mesmerizing site with remnants of Roman and Islamic civilizations. Marvel at the grandeur of the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohamed V, testaments to Morocco's cultural heritage. Lose yourself in the medina's vibrant souks, seek tranquility in the Andalusian Gardens, and depart through the grand entrance of the Kasbah des Oudaïas.
Tonight you'll indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine in a regal setting, crafted by renowned chefs at La Tour Hassan Palace.
Day 4: Transfer to Oualidia via El Jadida, Dine at La Table de La Sultana
Today's three-hour private transfer south hugs the coast, giving glimpses of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Along the journey, you'll stop at El Jadida, a coastal city renowned for its Portuguese influences and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Cité Portugaise. Explore the well-preserved fortifications, including the impressive Manueline-style Church of the Assumption and the Cistern of El Jadida, before returning to the road.
Oualidia is a lesser-known coastal gem known for its tranquil lagoon, pristine beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. Here you can unwind, feast on local seafood, and indulge in the beauty of nature. Check into the 5-star La Sultana Oualidia, an oasis set within a nature reserve. Gaze out to the ocean or over the lagoon, making like the locals and letting the tides dictate the rhythm of your day. Tonight you'll dine at La Table de La Sultana, a distinguished restaurant that fuses Moroccan and French flavors.
Day 5: Oualidia's Fauna, Flora & Sustainability, Weekly Market, La Sultana Spa
Oualidia is an area of exceptional natural beauty and resources, and today you'll explore its fauna, flora, and sustainability practices with an exclusive experience at La Sultana. Go behind the scenes to see how the hotel executes its sustainability promises, explore the lagoon, and visit the vegetable garden and greenhouse with this hourlong guided tour.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 6: Transfer to Essaouira
Follow the curves of Morocco's coastline on today's three-hour private transfer to the charming coastal town of Essaouira. Often referred to as the "White Pearl," Essaouira offers picturesque charm and a 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.
In Essaouira, you'll stay at the Hotel Le Medina, a 5-star beachfront hotel close to the city's medina. Check in and refresh, then choose to venture down to the beach to catch sea breezes and relax on the golden sands, or 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.
Day 7: Tour Essaouira, Kitesurfing at Sidi Kaouki, La Madada Dining Experience
Explore Essaouira 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.
This afternoon, turn the thrills up with an exhilarating private kitesurfing lesson at Sidi Kaouki Beach. Pop on a wetsuit and learn essential techniques to control and maneuver the kite. With each passing moment, you'll gain confidence as you navigate the wind and waves. Later, you'll have a luxury dining experience at La Madada. The menu is a true celebration of Moroccan cuisine with everything from fragrant tajines to freshly grilled seafood, so savor every bite while you enjoy warm hospitality and live music.
Day 8: Transfer to Marrakesh, Dine at L'Italien
Swap Essaouira's tranquil shores for the buzzing streets of Marrakesh. A private driver will take you on the three-hour drive, so sit back in plush leather seats and enjoy the comfortable journey. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for goats in the nearby argan trees as you travel through the region's rolling plains. On arrival in the "Red City," settle into your luxury hotel, the prestigious La Sultana Marrakech. This luxurious historic 5-star hotel is set within the UNESCO-listed medina and features magnificent rooftop views across the city.
Stay within your sanctuary and garden oasis and soak up the views, or venture out in the medina and souks. This evening, enter the luxury trattoria at La Mamounia and taste authentic Italian cuisine in a new setting. L'Italien brings the flavors of Italy to Marrakesh with the help of chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Food preparation zones are incorporated throughout the dining area, bringing plenty of theatrics to tonight's dinner. From the wood-fired oven to the antipasti bar, taste delicious dishes produced with sun-kissed vegetables from the estate's garden.
Day 9: Tour Marrakesh, Hammam Retreat, Fine Dining at Le Palais Soleiman
Immerse yourself in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and scents as you discover Marrakesh with a local guide. Your private half-day tour begins at the illustrious Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of intricately 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. Explore vibrant textiles, aromatic spices, ornate jewelry, and leather goods before stopping for lunch.
Later this afternoon, experience the art of the hammam at Selman Marrakesh's luxury spa, where a warm ambience transports you to a world of serenity and centuries-old traditions. The traditional hammam bathing experience is deeply rooted in Moroccan culture. Then tonight, you'll dine on the complex and comforting flavors of Moroccan cuisine at Le Palais Soleiman. This sophisticated restaurant offers a fine dining experience that harmoniously blends refined Moroccan and international flavors. Sit in the opulent dining room or opt for a romantic evening under the stars.
Day 10: Depart Marrakesh
More Great Morocco Itineraries
Map
