Morocco: Camels to Casbahs

Walled casbahs, labyrinthine souks, towering sand dunes, red-rock canyons—Morocco has a mystique all its own. We unlock its secrets as we roam the bazaars of 9th century Fez, a walled city suspended in a medieval dream, visit the fish markets of the seaside haven of Essaouira, explore the back lanes of Marrakesh, savor mint tea and tagines flavored with cardamom and cumin, and cross the High Atlas to explore the craggy Todra and Dades gorges. In the breathtaking Sahara, we enjoy an incredibly photogenic experience—our own private luxury tented camp cradled in sun-splashed dunes.

Itinerary

Days 1-3
Casablanca / Rabat / Moulay Idriss / Volubilis 
In Rabat, we stroll the 12th century Oudaya Kasbah, then travel inland through olive groves to visit the hill town of Moulay Idriss and the evocative Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO site.

Day 4
Fez 
Fez is hauntingly beautiful, with its ornate Arabic-Moorish architecture and honeycomb of twisting alleys. We explore the 9th century medina's mile-long network of souks, open-air cafes, courtyards, and gardens. 

Days 5-7
Middle Atlas Mountains / Sahara Desert Camp 
Crossing the Middle Atlas, we descend to our private luxury camp set below immense rolling dunes. Our activities here are flexible—explore on foot or ride camels. We'll feel as if we have the Sahara to ourselves as we watch the sunset and stargaze under a brilliant sky.

Days 8-9
Todra / Dades 
In the High Atlas we walk in the rugged Todra Gorge, visit a local family, and walk amid the sculpted red-rock formations of the Dades Gorge. 

Days 10-11
Ait Ben Haddou / Marrakesh 
We explore the stunning UNESCO site of Ait Ben Haddou, an 11th century mud-brick citadel often used as a film location. In Marrakesh everything from pottery and fabrics to silver and spices is on display in the fabled souks. We visit the ancient medina and the central square, replete with snake charmers, fire-eaters, and fortune tellers. 

Day 12
Essaouira 
Whitewashed houses with blue shutters give this walled town a Mediterranean atmosphere. We explore the port, the bustling fish market, and the harbor, where bright blue boats lie at anchor.

Days 13-14
Marrakesh 
We visit the enchanting Majorelle Garden, a diverse botanical landscape restored by Yves Saint Laurent, who added a museum dedicated to the rich culture of the indigenous Imazighen people. Depart on Day 14 via Marrakesh.