Karen
Morocco Specialist
Karen’s first-hand experience and long-term relationships with hoteliers & tour guides around the world allows her to create highly specialized, tailor-made itineraries for her clients.
E. Clarke Travel
Morocco
Morocco’s unique landscape is punctuated with ancient cities, majestic mountains with windy roads, gorges and canyons, a stunning coastline, and the sweeping golden sands of the Sahara Desert. Navigate winding medina mazes while sipping on refreshing mint tea, shop the souks to purchase authentic local goods, and get lost in the sensory sights, smells and sounds of its rich kaleidoscope of culture and heritage. Delight in the colorful stacks of dye and spices, stroll past donkeys carrying leather, admire richly embroidered carpets and marvel at the distinctive blend of Moorish, Spanish, Islamic and European architecture. Explore the wonderous UNESCO World Heritage sites found throughout Morocco.
Take a guided camel trek into the Sahara and sleep under the stars in a traditional Berber tent. Surf the ocean waters of the coastal town of Essaouira, where blue fishing boats dot the harbor. Check out the oldest university in the world in Fes, eat tajine and couscous while overlooking the bustling cityscape in Marrakesh, listen to traditional Moroccan music played on the streets of Casablanca, or visit the infamous tanneries scattered throughout the country. Come visit “the place where the sun sets, the west” and immerse yourself in all that Morocco offers.
Itinerary 1: Imperial Cities
Days 1 & 2: Fes
Travel back centuries to this historic city in northern Morocco. Enter the labyrinth of alleyways in Fes el-Bali, the heart of the city, where you will delight in ancient markets and rich pastimes. Fes is set amongst colorful tanneries, cottages, and aged stone walls. While on the pedestrian-only streets inside Fes el-Bali, admire the impressive craftwork by weavers at their looms and the wide variety of goods for purchase including babouches, leatherwork, brass, cotton or silk weaving, and jewelry.
See some of the most stunning tile work at the world’s oldest university, University of Al-Qarawiyyin, go atop the hillside next to the Merenid Tombs while overlooking the city or stroll through Bou Inania Medersa. If the Jardin Jnaj Sbil doesn’t leave you breathless, then the spectacular Attarin Medersa will! Reward yourself with a jaunt to Bahia Palace or the Saadian Tomb, a marvelous burial ground with ornate carvings and impressive decorative detailing.
Days 3 & 4: Rabat
Home of King Mohammed VI, the king of Morocco, this country’s capital can be appreciated for its year-round good weather, serene beaches, or the prominent Mawazine Music Festival held annually. Tour the Hassan Tower, escape the crowd at Chellah, or marvel at the grand Mausoleum of the Kings, guarded by members of the Moroccan Royal Guard.
Travel to the medieval fortress of Kasbah of the Oudaias for a dazzling ocean view overlooking the impeccable Andalusian gardens and the Old Medina, both must-see sites. Pause and feel the ocean breeze at nearby Temara and Skirat beaches. After you have reached your zen, roam through the Old Medina to purchase anything from souvenirs to fresh produce. Conclude your evening with an order of chicken pastilla, Zaalouk, or a delicious traditional tagine cooked to perfection in Moroccan clay pots.
Days 5 & 6: Casablanca
This port city, standing partly over the Atlantic Ocean, is a blend of Moorish style and European art deco. You can see many luxurious buildings such as King’s Palace or Hassan II Mosque, the third largest mosque in the world! Swing by the Quartier Habous adorned with intricate molded street arches, cozy cafes, and whitewashed buildings. While here, treat yourself to a pastry and unwind with a glass of refreshing mint tea. Not far, the Old Medina will tempt you with a variety of shops to purchase Moroccan trinkets to remember your adventure in Casablanca.
Contemplate the astonishing stained-glass windows at Notre Dame de Lourdes or climb the 256 marble steps up Phare d’El Hank for an impressive view of the Atlantic and Casablanca itself. End with a saunter down the palm-lined boardwalk in the Corniche or enjoy a delectable picnic in the eucalyptus forest, Forêt de Bouskoura-Merchich.
Days 7 & 8: Marrakesh
Arrive in the city of luxe to be enamored by the spas, hammams, and charming medinas. Marrakesh, a city that blends European, Middle Eastern, and African culture into on, is situated just north of the Atlas Mountains. Roam the central square of Jemaa El-Fna, photograph El Badi Palace, and get lost in ornate souks and bazaars.
The enchanting Majorelle Gardens cannot be missed with marble pools, banana trees, and groves of bamboo inside its walls. Be amazed by the melodic sounds as you wander down the curved allies. Become captivated by the aromas of Moroccan cuisine. Pause to watch the drumming and be mesmerized by the snake charmers and haggling throughout the city. Marrakesh’s bustling city vibe will electrify you.
Day 9: Journey Home
Fly out of Marrakesh. Have a safe flight!
Itinerary 2: Cities, Desert, Mountains and more
Days 1 & 2: Marrakesh
Arrive in the city of luxe to be enamored by the spas, hammams, and charming medinas. Marrakesh, a city that blends European, Middle Eastern, and African culture into on, is situated just north of the Atlas Mountains. Roam the central square of Jemaa El-Fna, photograph El Badi Palace, and get lost in ornate souks and bazaars.
The enchanting Majorelle Gardens cannot be missed with marble pools, banana trees, and groves of bamboo inside its walls. Be amazed by the melodic sounds as you wander down the curved allies. Become captivated by the aromas of Moroccan cuisine. Pause to watch the drumming and be mesmerized by the snake charmers and haggling throughout the city. Marrakesh’s bustling city vibe will electrify you.
Days 3 & 4: Rabat
Home of King Mohammed VI, the king of Morocco, this country’s capital can be appreciated for its year-round good weather, serene beaches, or the prominent Mawazine Music Festival held annually. Tour the Hassan Tower, escape the crowd at Chellah, or marvel at the grand Mausoleum of the Kings, guarded by members of the Moroccan Royal Guard.
Travel to the medieval fortress of Kasbah of the Oudaias for a dazzling ocean view overlooking the impeccable Andalusian gardens and the Old Medina, both must-see sites. Pause and feel the ocean breeze at nearby Temara and Skirat beaches. After you have reached your zen, roam through the Old Medina to purchase anything from souvenirs to fresh produce. Conclude your evening with an order of chicken pastilla, Zaalouk, or a delicious traditional tagine cooked to perfection in Moroccan clay pots.
Days 5 & 6: Fes
Travel back centuries to this historic city in northern Morocco. Enter the labyrinth of alleyways in Fes el-Bali, the heart of the city, where you will delight in ancient markets and rich pastimes. Fes is set amongst colorful tanneries, cottages, and aged stone walls. While on the pedestrian-only streets inside Fes el-Bali, admire the impressive craftwork by weavers at their looms and the wide variety of goods for purchase including babouches, leatherwork, brass, cotton or silk weaving, and jewelry.
See some of the most stunning tile work at the world’s oldest university, University of Al-Qarawiyyin, go atop the hillside next to the Merenid Tombs while overlooking the city or stroll through Bou Inania Medersa. If the Jardin Jnaj Sbil doesn’t leave you breathless, then the spectacular Attarin Medersa will! Reward yourself with a jaunt to Bahia Palace or the Saadian Tomb, a marvelous burial ground with ornate carvings and impressive decorative detailing.
Days 7 & 8: The Sahara Desert
Merzouga is an amazing gateway into the golden-orange sand dunes of the Sahara Desert.
Here you will await your camel trek into the vast Erg Chebbi and prepare for a life-changing experience. Spend a day or two navigating the desert with expert guides, sleeping in traditional Berber tents under a canopy of stars. You will witness the gorgeous sunset over the dunes while being able to stare at a sky full of bright stars. Wake early and watch the sun rise and stretch across the bronze horizon.
Explore the desert via safari or caravan. While in the Sahara you can sandboard the dunes, hear tales from Morocco’s storied past, and savor exquisite dishes over open flame. Feel the temperature change as the sun disappears and the clear nighttime sky emerges, drifting off to sleep in the complete silence of the desert.
Day 9: Tinghir
Tinghir, an oasis in southern Morocco as it settles next to the Todra Valley, is filled with a smattering of flower gardens, kasbahs, and small streets. Nearby are the High Atlas Mountains and the captivating bronze Sahara Desert. For an enchanting view of the city make your way to the ruins of Glaoui’s Kasbah. Then lace up your hiking shoes and navigate along the Todra Gorge. Along the way you will spot the locals growing fresh fruits and vegetables and selling their trademark goods.
Day 10: Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate, otherwise known as “Ouallywood” or “Morocco’s Little Hollywood,” has been hosting directors since the ’60s. This lovely doorway to the desert is nestled next to the Atlas Mountains. Panoramic views of kasbahs and ksars have been shown on the big screen such as The Mummy and Game of Thrones. Ouzrzazate has a rich Berber history due to its location on the trans-Saharan trading route. Head out on an adventure to Fint Oasis, rewind time at Telouet Kasbah, visit the film studios, and catch the sunrise at Ait Ben Haddou. Ouarzazate fills the valley with charm and purpose.
Day 11: High Atlas
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply enjoy casual day hikes, the High Atlas Mountains offer an appealing path for you. Enter at the village of Imlil to commence your journey of ancient mule tracks that connect numerous villages scattered throughout the mountains. This region of mountains runs diagonally across Morocco and is known as North Africa’s highest mountain range. Only a 90-minute drive from Marrakesh, this portion of the mountains is easy to explore by foot or off-roading vehicle. Toubkal National Park is set outside Imlil, offering spectacular views of various landscapes throughout Morocco.
Day 12: Marrakesh & Journey Home
Fly out of Marrakesh. Have a safe flight!
Itinerary 3: Coastal Highlights
Days 1 & 2: Agadir
Distinguished for its beautiful coastline, Agradir’s beaches are peaceful and clean 300 sunny days a year. The seaside promenade and laid-back beachfront boulevard are filled with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Shop in the Souk El Had d’Agadir for keepsakes, explore Crocoparc, or picnic in the Vallée des Oiseaux viewing the parrots, flamingos, and even kangaroos!
Ride on the La Grande Roue d’Agadir ferris wheel, consume exotic food or admire the spellbinding Grand Mosque. If you feel like a venture out of the city, hike to Agadir Oufella or the Souss-Massa National Park. Lastly, Agadir is notable for its magnificent golf courses. Swing your clubs at Golf de l’Ocean, Golf Club Le Solei, or the superb oceanfront Golf Tazegzout.
Days 3 & 4: Essaouira
Essaouira features a plethora of gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean. Here you can roam the medina, wander along the tiny streets in this walled town, or explore local shops. Essaouira is a surfing hub that welcomes surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing. If surfing isn’t your preference, try galloping along the coast on horseback or relax on one of its atmospheric beaches and take in the warm salty air.
At the port, watch the local fisherman catch fresh fish or head to the harbor and snap a photo of the famous blue boats. No matter the angle, it will truly be picturesque. Stay near the water and you will easily stumble upon several restaurants that will let you handpick your meal fresh from the Atlantic. If that isn’t impressive enough, they will then prepare it right in front of you! Your taste buds will dance. Essaouira will slow down time and allow you to soak in all Morocco has to offer.
Days 5 & 6: Rabat
Home of King Mohammed VI, the king of Morocco, this country’s capital can be appreciated for its year-round good weather, serene beaches, or the prominent Mawazine Music Festival held annually. Tour the Hassan Tower, escape the crowd at Chellah, or marvel at the grand Mausoleum of the Kings, guarded by members of the Moroccan Royal Guard.
Travel to the medieval fortress of Kasbah of the Oudaias for a dazzling ocean view overlooking the impeccable Andalusian gardens and the Old Medina, both must-see sites. Pause and feel the ocean breeze at nearby Temara and Skirat beaches. After you have reached your zen, roam through the Old Medina to purchase anything from souvenirs to fresh produce. Conclude your evening with an order of chicken pastilla, Zaalouk, or a delicious traditional tagine cooked to perfection in Moroccan clay pots.
Day 7: Chefchaouen
One of the most impressive and secret places to visit in Morocco is Ras El Maa. Visit this tranquil waterfall and natural spring while you rest in Chefchaouen, known for its beautiful painted blue and white houses nestled against a mountain backdrop. This town is situated on the slopes of the Rif Mountains where you can do some laidback hiking while glimpsing at the sapphire Mediterranean in the distance. Take a day-hike to Talassemtane National Park, home to rare flora and fauna.
Day 8: Asilah
Let Asilah be your nirvana with its city walls covered in brilliant murals, detailed archways, and ramparts that carry old-world charm. This artsy beach town on the coast of Morocco is quiet and peaceful unless you visit during one of its renowned art festivals. Asilah’s beaches are clean, beautiful, and even offer camel rides along the coast. This city has superb restaurants which highlight Spanish heritage or delight in the savory street food like falafel, Moroccan crepes, and a variety of argan oil toppings.
Days 9 & 10: Tangier
Known as the gateway between Arica and Europe, Tangier’s beautiful Moroccan port sits on the Strait of Gibraltar adorned with whitewashed hillsides, palaces, and more. This quick ferry ride from Spain offers numerous attractions such as Dar El Makhzen, the old Sultan’s palace, Tangier medina souks, the Museum of Moroccan Art and the annual TanJazz Festival in September. Eat at the famed Le Saveur Du Poisson or relish in Moroccan cuisine on the rooftop terrace at Restaurant Al Maimouni. A must-see is Cap Spartel and the Caves of Hercules featuring a charming lighthouse, a medieval-style castle, and Cape Malabata.
Day 11: Journey Home
Fly out of Tangier. Have a safe flight!
Project Expedition
Viator
Tours by Locals
La Mamounia – Marrakesh
Royal Mansour – Marrakesh
Four Seasons – Marrakesh
Villa des Orangers – Marrakesh