7-Day Moroccan Adventure: Journey from South to North

Departure: Your day begins at 9:30 AM with departure from your Riad in Marrakech. You’ll meet your expert guide, and the adventure will commence. The tour covers the most iconic landmarks and attractions in Marrakech, including:

• Bahia Palace: Discover its tranquil courtyards and intricate blue mosaic walls, built by Ahmed Ben Moussa, showcasing a masterpiece of Moroccan design.
• Ben Youssef Madrasa: Marvel at the largest theological university in the Maghreb, a stunning example of Moorish architecture and craftsmanship.
• Saadian Tombs: Explore this historic site, rediscovered in 1917 and adorned with breathtaking decorative artistry.
• Jemaa El Fnaa Square: Visit the heart of Marrakech’s vibrant culture. Its origins remain a mystery, but over time, it has become a bustling hub of activity and tradition.
• Souks: Take a stroll through Marrakech's famous markets, exploring unique craft areas such as the leather auction, tinsmiths, and coppersmiths.
• Koutoubia Mosque: Admire this architectural marvel, originally built by the Almoravid dynasty in 1120 and transformed in 1162 under Almohad rule. It once housed an impressive library with over 100 book stalls, giving rise to its name, "Mosque of the Booksellers."

Afternoon Activities: After enjoying a delightful lunch, the tour continues to visit the stunning Majorelle Gardens (Yves Saint Laurent Gardens). Experience its serene beauty, a perfect contrast to the bustling city. Then, take a leisurely walk around Marrakech’s modern city, observing the stark differences between the old Medina and the contemporary parts. End of Tour: In the late afternoon, you’ll be taken back to your accommodation or dropped off at Jemaa El Fnaa Square to enjoy more of Marrakech at your leisure.

Departure and Scenic Drive Begin your journey at 8:00 AM, departing from Marrakech towards Ouarzazate through the magnificent Atlas Mountains. Along the way, we’ll make several short stops to take in the breathtaking landscapes, including the renowned Tizi n'Tichka Pass and traditional Berber villages that dot the mountainsides. Stop 1: Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou Our first major stop is the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a 16th-century fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous as the filming location for movies like Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and The Mummy, this remarkable site offers a glimpse into Morocco's rich history and culture. We’ll explore the Kasbah and its captivating architecture. Lunch and Ouarzazate Visit Continue to Ouarzazate, where we’ll pause for lunch. Afterward, we’ll visit the Kasbah Taourirt, a historic and beautifully preserved structure that reflects the city’s importance as a cultural crossroads. Journey to Dades Valley From Ouarzazate, the journey leads us to the stunning Dades Valley, with stops along the way. Discover the lush palm grove of Skoura, a tranquil oasis home to some of Morocco’s most admired Kasbahs. As we travel along the famed Route of a Thousand Kasbahs, marvel at the unique adobe fortresses surrounded by palm trees. Valley of Roses and Monkey Fingers Our route continues through the enchanting Valley of Roses, where the highly prized Damascus rose is cultivated for its fragrance and beauty. Before reaching Dades, enjoy a fascinating view of the striking rock formations known as the Monkey Fingers, a natural wonder that never fails to amaze. Accommodation The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in Dades, where you’ll enjoy a peaceful night surrounded by the valley’s serene beauty. Distance Covered: 325 km Approximate Driving Time: 6 hours

Morning Drive and Panoramic Views After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive along the winding zigzag road, renowned for offering one of the most spectacular panoramic views in Morocco. Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the gorge and the river that carves through it. Todra Gorges Exploration Continue to Tinghir, passing picturesque landscapes of adobe villages and lush palm groves. Upon reaching the Todra Gorges, take time to explore the towering canyon walls on foot and appreciate their sheer magnificence. Touroug and Underground Irrigation Systems Proceed to Touroug, where you’ll have the chance to learn about the ingenious ancient underground irrigation system once used by local tribes to channel water from the mountains. Enjoy lunch along the way. Erfoud and Fossil Wonders Next, head to Erfoud, a city famed for its fossil-rich surroundings and its location at the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Merzouga and the Desert Adventure From Erfoud, travel to Merzouga to begin your journey into the Erg Chebbi Desert. Before arriving, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase scarves for your desert adventure. At the hotel, enjoy a refreshing cup of tea and prepare for an unforgettable camel ride. Camel Trek to Desert Camp Mount your camel for a leisurely ride through the golden dunes, lasting approximately 1.5 hours. Along the way, pause to witness the breathtaking sunset over the dunes, take photos, and soak in the tranquil beauty of the Sahara. Arrival at the Desert Camp Upon reaching the camp, where your luggage will have been transported in advance, you’ll receive a warm welcome. After a brief rest, savor a delicious dinner in the camp’s restaurant. Evening Under the Stars After dinner, gather around a campfire for a mesmerizing evening of traditional Berber music under the sparkling Sahara night sky. Spend the night in comfortable desert tents, surrounded by the serene silence of the desert. Distance Covered: 280 km Approximate Driving Time: 4 hours

Desert Sunrise and Departure Begin your day early to witness the magical sunrise over the Sahara dunes. After breakfast at the camp restaurant, you’ll return to the Merzouga hostel either by camel or 4×4 vehicle, where your journey to Fez will commence. Ziz Valley and Midelt Travel through the picturesque Ziz Valley, renowned for its vast palm groves and date cultivation. Admire the stunning adobe villages scattered across the valley. We’ll make a stop in Midelt, nestled in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, where you can enjoy lunch. Cedar Forests and Azrou The journey continues with a visit to the cedar forests near Azrou, where you’ll meet the playful Barbary macaques, the forest’s curious inhabitants. Ifrane – Moroccan Switzerland Next, we head to Ifrane, often called the "Moroccan Switzerland" for its alpine-style architecture and pristine surroundings. Originally founded by the French as a spa town, Ifrane is also home to two ski resorts, making it a unique stop in the Moroccan landscape. Arrival in Fez Conclude your day with a scenic drive to Fez, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation to unwind after an eventful journey. Distance Covered: 480 km Approximate Driving Time: 8 hours

Morning Medina Tour At 9:30 AM, we will pick you up from your accommodation to start a guided tour of the ancient Medina of Fez, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 8th century. This labyrinthine city is renowned for its narrow streets, bustling alleys, and well-preserved walls. The tour begins with a panoramic view from one of the hills overlooking the city, followed by visits to:

• The bronze doors of the Royal Palace
• The Jewish Quarter (Mellah)
• The Potters’ District

Next, we’ll explore the medina on foot with our guide. You’ll encounter vibrant shops selling fresh fruit, spices, Berber carpets, and intricate Moroccan crafts. Key highlights of the tour include:

• The Madrasas (Koranic Schools)
• The Chouwara Tannery
• Seffarine Square
• The Souks
• The Al Karaouine Mosque and University, recognized as the oldest university in the world.

Lunch Break Midway through the tour, enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional Moroccan restaurant in the heart of the medina. Afternoon Transfer to Chefchaouen After completing the Fez Medina tour, we’ll set off for the journey to Chefchaouen, famously known as the "Blue Pearl of Morocco." Enjoy scenic views as we travel through the Rif Mountains. Evening in Chefchaouen Upon arrival in Chefchaouen, check into your accommodation and enjoy a restful evening in this charming blue-painted village. Distance Covered: 212 km Approximate Driving Time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Morning Exploration of Chefchaouen Begin your day with a visit to the enchanting town of Chefchaouen, renowned as one of the most unique and picturesque cities in Morocco. Founded as a refuge for Muslim families fleeing Granada in 1492 and later the expulsion from Spain in 1648, Chefchaouen showcases a blend of Moroccan and Andalusian influences. Stroll through the steep medina, nestled on the mountainside, and admire the iconic white and blue-washed houses with their charming Andalusian-style patios. This serene town offers a delightful atmosphere and countless photo opportunities. Transfer to Tangier Airport At the designated time, we will transfer you to Tangier Airport for your return flight. End of Services Distance Covered: 114 km Approximate Driving Time: 2 hours