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A camel caravan crosses the sweeping dunes of the Sahara near Merzouga - Morocco Explorer, Morocco
A camel caravan crosses the sweeping dunes of the Sahara near Merzouga
Experience traditional Gnaoua music and the rich cultural heritage of Morocco's desert communities - Morocco Explorer, Morocco
Experience traditional Gnaoua music and the rich cultural heritage of Morocco's desert communities
Morocco desert camp with illuminated tents and lanterns under a starry sky - Morocco Explorer, Morocco
Morocco desert camp with illuminated tents and lanterns under a starry sky
Discover the flavours of Morocco with a traditional cooking class - Morocco Explorer, Morocco
Discover the flavours of Morocco with a traditional cooking class
Colourful spices on the streets of Marrakesh - Morocco Explorer, Morocco
Colourful spices on the streets of Marrakesh  | Robyn Lyons
Views over Chouara Tannery in Fes - Morocco Explorer, Morocco
Views over Chouara Tannery in Fes  | Robyn Lyons
Ait Benhaddou at sunrise - Morocco Explorer, Morocco
Ait Benhaddou at sunrise  | Richard I'Anson
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Morocco Explorer

Discover Morocco's imperial cities, ancient kasbahs and golden Sahara dunes, with cultural experiences and scenic walks in the Dadès Valley

Morocco
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 29 reviews

12 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: MEX
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 12 Days
Activities
  • Day Walking
  • Cultural Visits
  • Adventure Touring
Accommodation
  • 3 nights hotel
  • 7 nights traditional riad/guesthouse 1 night Sahara desert camp
Meals
  • 8 Dinners
  • 1 Lunch
  • 11 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
2 / 10

Adventure touring

Carbon Footprint  

46kg of CO2-e PP per day

(506kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Experience the Sahara Desert with an overnight stay among the Erg Chebbi dunes, traditional Gnaoua music over dinner and morning camel ride.
  • Explore the imperial cities of Rabat, Meknès, Fes and Marrakech with knowledgeable English-speaking local guides who bring Morocco's history and culture to life
  • Immerse yourself in Moroccan culture with a Fassi cooking class in Fes and a calligraphy workshop in Marrakech
  • Walk through the spectacular Dadès Valley, exploring dramatic gorges, rugged mountain scenery and traditional villages
  • Discover ancient history at the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the historic kasbahs of southern Morocco
  • Stay in a traditional guesthouse near Aït Ben Haddou, with time to explore the UNESCO-listed fortified village after the daytime crowds have departed.
  • Stay in character-filled Moroccan riads and traditional guesthouses, experiencing local architecture and hospitality

Overview

Discover Morocco's rich history, diverse landscapes and vibrant culture on this 12-day journey from Casablanca to Marrakech. Travel from historic imperial cities to the golden dunes of the Sahara and the rugged valleys of the Atlas Mountains. Stay in traditional riads and guesthouses, and gain an appreciation of Moroccan life through local encounters, regional cuisine and hands-on cultural experiences.

Explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis, where ancient columns and intricate mosaics reveal Morocco's past, and discover the flavours of Moroccan cuisine during a cooking class in Fes. In the Sahara, spend a night at a desert camp among the dunes of Erg Chebbi, enjoy traditional Gnaoua music and experience the desert at sunrise, followed by an early morning camel ride. Continue through Todra Gorge to the Dadès Valley, where two nights allow time for short scenic walks among mountain villages and unusual rock formations.

Cross the High Atlas Mountains, visiting the historic Glaoui kasbah at Telouet before travelling over the Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260m / 7,415ft) to Marrakech. Explore the lively medina and discover the art of Arabic calligraphy in a hands-on workshop. Throughout the journey, your English-speaking tour leader and knowledgeable local guides provide insights into Morocco's history, traditions and culture.

Itinerary

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Welcome to Morocco. On arrival at Casablanca Airport on Day 1, you will be met and transferred to our centrally located group hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to settle in before meeting your guide and fellow travellers at an early evening trip briefing. Please check the briefing details at reception when checking in. Overnight: Idou Anfa Hotel or similar Please note: If you arrive on any other day, please arrange a transfer with us or make your own way to the joining hotel listed on your final tour voucher.

Meals: Nil

This morning, we visit Casablanca's iconic Hassan II Mosque, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. One of the largest mosques in the world, it is renowned for its intricate craftsmanship, elaborate mosaics and soaring minaret. We then travel north to Rabat, Morocco's capital, where our local guide introduces us to the city's historic landmarks, including the Kasbah of the Udayas, its picturesque gardens and the impressive Hassan Tower. With its coastal setting and relaxed atmosphere, Rabat offers a fascinating introduction to Morocco's rich history and cultural heritage. Tonight, we stay in a traditional riad and experience Moroccan hospitality. Overnight: Riad Kelaa or similar Driving time: ~2 hrs Distance: ~90 km / 56 mi

Meals: B,D

Leaving Rabat, we travel inland towards Meknes, one of Morocco's historic imperial cities. We spend time exploring its impressive architecture and monuments before continuing to the sacred town of Moulay Idriss, dramatically situated across two hills. Nearby, we visit the remarkable Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking among its ancient columns, mosaics and remarkably preserved remains, we gain an insight into Morocco's Roman past. Our journey continues to Fes, one of the country's oldest and most culturally significant cities. Before entering the medina, we stop at the South Borj viewpoint for sweeping panoramic views across the city and its maze of historic streets. Overnight: Riad El Yacout or similar Driving time: ~3–4 hrs Distance: ~230 km / 143 mi

Meals: B,D

Today we discover the fascinating cultural heritage of Fes, a city renowned for its medieval architecture, traditional craftsmanship and vibrant atmosphere. Our guided exploration includes the historic Mellah, the city's former Jewish quarter, and the famous tanneries, where leather continues to be treated and dyed using techniques passed down through generations. Later, we enjoy a hands-on Moroccan cooking class in a traditional riad, discovering the flavours and ingredients of Fassi cuisine. Under local guidance, we learn to prepare regional specialities such as bastilla, harira and dishes featuring preserved lemon, gaining an appreciation of the culinary traditions that make Fes such a remarkable destination. Overnight: Riad El Yacout or similar

Meals: B,D

Leaving Fes behind, we travel south through the changing landscapes of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Our journey takes us through Ifrane and Azrou, a region known for its forests, mountain scenery and traditional communities. Depending on time, we may also visit Bhalil, a fascinating village known for its cave dwellings, some of which remain inhabited today. As we continue towards Midelt, the landscape gradually changes from forested hills to more open and rugged mountain terrain, offering a glimpse of the contrasting environments that make Morocco so diverse. We arrive in Midelt for our overnight stay. Overnight: Kasbah Asmaa or similar Driving time: ~3.5–4 hrs Distance: ~210 km / 130 mi

Meals: B,D

Today we journey towards the Sahara Desert, travelling through the increasingly arid landscapes of southern Morocco. Passing through Erfoud, we continue towards Merzouga, the gateway to the magnificent dunes of Erg Chebbi. Arriving in the afternoon, we settle into our desert camp, surrounded by the golden sands of the Sahara. There is time to enjoy a sunset activity and appreciate the extraordinary beauty of the dunes as the changing light transforms the desert landscape. This evening, we enjoy dinner at camp accompanied by traditional Gnaoua music, an atmospheric introduction to the musical heritage of southern Morocco. Overnight: Golden Dune Luxury Camp or similar Driving time: ~4 hrs Distance: ~270 km / 168 mi

Meals: B,L,D

We rise early to experience the Sahara as the first light illuminates the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi. An early morning camel ride offers a memorable way to explore the desert, with the option to walk for those who prefer. We return to camp for breakfast before continuing our journey. Leaving Merzouga, we travel west through Rissani towards the spectacular Todra Gorge, where towering limestone cliffs rise dramatically above the narrow valley floor. After time to appreciate the impressive scenery, we continue towards the Dadès Valley, a region of rugged mountains, traditional villages and extraordinary rock formations. We settle into our accommodation in the Dadès region, our base for the next two nights. Overnight: Dadès Valley Driving time: ~4–5 hrs Distance: ~290 km / 180 mi

Meals: B,D

Today is dedicated to exploring the remarkable landscapes of the Dadès region. Known for its dramatic gorges, unusual rock formations and traditional villages, this area offers some of southern Morocco's most spectacular mountain scenery. We enjoy short walks through the surrounding valleys, taking time to appreciate the rugged terrain, cultivated landscapes and traditional communities that have adapted to life in this mountainous environment. With a full day in the region, we can explore at a more relaxed pace and experience the natural beauty of the Dadès Valley beyond the main road. Overnight: Dadès Valley

Meals: B,D

Leaving the Dadès Valley, we travel through the landscapes of southern Morocco towards Skoura Oasis, a region known for its extensive palm groves and historic fortified kasbahs. Here we visit Kasbah Amridil, one of the finest examples of traditional southern Moroccan architecture, where imposing earthen walls and intricate design reflect the region's rich history. We continue towards Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed fortified village renowned for its remarkable mud-brick architecture. Arriving later in the afternoon, after many of the day visitors have departed, we explore the atmospheric lanes of the ksar and walk towards the hilltop granary for panoramic views across the surrounding landscape. Tonight we stay in a traditional guesthouse near the historic village. Overnight: Dar Mouna or similar Driving time: ~2.5–3 hrs Distance: ~160 km / 99 mi

Meals: B,D

Today we journey across the magnificent High Atlas Mountains towards Marrakech, following a scenic route through dramatic mountain landscapes and remote villages. Along the way, we take a detour to Telouet to visit the historic kasbah of Thami El Glaoui, once the residence of one of Morocco's most powerful regional rulers. Although parts of the kasbah have fallen into ruin, its surviving reception halls reveal beautifully decorated plasterwork and a glimpse into its former grandeur. We continue over the Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260m), enjoying sweeping views across the rugged mountain scenery before descending towards Marrakech. On arrival, we settle into our traditional riad for the next two nights. Overnight: Riad Berta or similar Driving time: ~4–5 hrs Distance: ~190 km / 118 mi

Meals: B

Today we explore Marrakech, one of Morocco's most vibrant and captivating imperial cities. Our guided sightseeing begins in the historic Mellah before continuing to El Badi Palace, the impressive ruins of a once-grand Saadian palace. We also visit Ben Youssef Medersa, renowned for its exquisite Islamic architecture, intricate tilework and beautifully carved decoration. In the afternoon, we take part in a traditional calligraphy workshop in the medina, discovering the artistry and cultural significance of this centuries-old craft. Later, we visit Le Jardin Secret, a peaceful garden tucked away within the bustling medina, where we can relax over a cup of Moroccan mint tea. This evening, there is the opportunity to enjoy dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant, accompanied by local music. Overnight: Riad Berta or similar

Meals: B

Our journey concludes after breakfast. For those departing today, a group transfer to Marrakech airport is included. If you plan to stay on in Morocco, additional accommodation or extensions can be arranged with us, with Essaouira being a popular option. As we say farewell, take with you memories of Morocco’s vibrant cities, timeless kasbahs, sweeping desert and the warm hospitality of its people, experiences that will stay long after the journey ends.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

17 scheduled departures between 22 Nov 2026 and 27 Dec 2027.

  • Departs 22 Nov 2026 – ends 3 Dec 2026 (12 days)
  • Departs 20 Dec 2026 – ends 31 Dec 2026 (12 days)
  • Departs 7 Feb 2027 – ends 18 Feb 2027 (12 days)
  • Departs 21 Feb 2027 – ends 4 Mar 2027 (12 days)
  • Departs 7 Mar 2027 – ends 18 Mar 2027 (12 days)
  • Departs 14 Mar 2027 – ends 25 Mar 2027 (12 days)
  • … and 11 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 8 dinners
  • Airport transfers (day 1 and 12 only)
  • 3 nights hotel accommodation on a twin-share basis
  • 7 nights traditional riad/guesthouse accommodation on a twin-share basis
  • 1 night Sahara desert camp on a twin-share basis
  • English speaking tour leader
  • Local city guides in Rabat, Meknes, Fes and Marrakech
  • Morning camel ride in the Erg Chebbi dunes
  • Traditional Fassi cooking class in Fes
  • Calligraphy workshop in Marrakech
  • Sightseeing and entrance fees as listed in itinerary
  • Private transport

Not included

  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa
  • Arrival and departure transfers (if not arriving Day 1 or departing Day 12)
  • Entrance fees for sightseeing not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Aerated and alcoholic drinks, and bottled water
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Tips

Reviews (29)

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The actual trip was great, made especially by our guide Moha. The accommodation was lovely and showed how Moroccans live.

Noelene|Queensland, Australia
18 Oct 2026
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Our guide Moha was fantastic! We had a great, small group of people which allowed more personalised interaction with our guide. The accommodation was excellent.

Kristina|Queensland, Australia
13 Oct 2026
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This tour was a very well organised trip through such a variety of places in Morocco. The guide Moha was very knowledgeable and friendly and a very good guide. He made it very easy. Accommodation was fantastic and varied. Mustafa was a very safe and careful driver. Highly recommend this tour.

Roslyn|Victoria, Australia
13 Oct 2026
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Great trip with a fantastic trip lead. The trip met my expectations and I was rewarded with some great memories.

Jeremie|Victoria, Australia
30 May 2026
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A great itinerary and guide.

Patricia|Western Australia, Australia
27 May 2026
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Morocco is a fascinating country. We found the driving tedious at times. Both the guide and driver were excellent and treated us well and with respect.

Christine|NSW, Australia
25 Oct 2025
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Well organised trip and made more enjoyable by our wonderful and knowledgeable guide Mohamed and excellent driver Hassan.

Jo-Anne|WA Australia
4 Jun 2025
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excellent

Matthew Campbell|Carlton North, VIC Australia
11 Feb 2025
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While there is some walking and climbing associated with accessing historical monuments and ongoing terrain, it should be an easy exercise if the engaged has followed the suggestions and prompts prior to the tour.

Joanmarie Scheinpflug|Bribie Island, QLD Australia
27 Sep 2024

Extra trip info

AccommodationWill My Trip Run?FAQs
Permanent tented camp with canvas tents pitched among desert dunes in Morocco

Merzouga: Golden Dune Luxury Camp

Spend a night in a traditional-style desert camp among the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Comfortable tented accommodation offers a memorable Sahara experience, with the opportunity to enjoy the desert's changing colours, peaceful surroundings and star-filled skies.

Aït Ben Haddou rooftop terrace set for dining above the kasbah

Aït Ben Haddou: Dar Mouna

A traditional Moroccan guesthouse near the UNESCO-listed ksar of Aït Ben Haddou. Built in a style that reflects the region's earthen architecture, Dar Mouna offers a welcoming atmosphere and a convenient base for exploring this historic desert settlement.

Casablanca: Idou Anfa Hotel

Located in Casablanca's central Anfa district, this comfortable hotel offers modern rooms and a convenient base for beginning your Moroccan journey. Its central location provides easy access to the city's restaurants, shops and main attractions.

Dining area at Riad Kalaa in Rabat, with carved stone columns and arched windows

Rabat: Riad Kalaa

A traditional Moroccan riad offering a peaceful retreat within Rabat's historic medina. With its intimate atmosphere, courtyard setting and distinctive Moroccan architecture, Riad Kalaa provides a charming introduction to the country's traditional accommodation.

Dining area in the tiled courtyard at Riad El Yacout, Fes, Morocco

Fes: Riad El Yacout

Set within the historic city of Fes, Riad El Yacout showcases traditional Moroccan architecture, decorative tilework and an inviting courtyard. Its characterful surroundings provide a comfortable base for exploring the city's ancient medina and rich cultural heritage.

Morocco's Kasbah Asmaa hotel overlooks a pool and palm trees beneath desert mountains

Midelt: Kasbah Asmaa

A traditional kasbah-style hotel in Midelt, surrounded by the landscapes of Morocco's Middle Atlas region. With its distinctive architecture and relaxed atmosphere, it provides a comfortable overnight stop on the journey south towards the Sahara Desert.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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This 12-day Morocco Explorer tour combines the imperial cities of Rabat, Meknes, Fes and Marrakech with the Sahara Desert, Atlas Mountains and Dadès Valley. Highlights include an overnight stay among the Erg Chebbi dunes, a sunrise camel ride, traditional Moroccan cooking and calligraphy workshops, and visits to historic kasbahs and ancient Roman ruins.

Morocco Explorer is graded Adventure Touring and is suitable for active travellers comfortable with sightseeing on foot and short scenic walks. Some walking takes place on uneven or rocky terrain, particularly in the Dadès Valley. No previous trekking experience is required, although a reasonable level of fitness and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Yes, the tour includes an overnight stay at a desert camp among the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga. Travellers can enjoy the changing colours of the Sahara at sunset, traditional Gnaoua music over dinner and an early morning camel ride, with the option to walk instead.

Accommodation includes comfortable hotels, traditional Moroccan riads and guesthouses, and one night at a Sahara desert camp. The 12-day itinerary includes 11 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis, with properties selected for their character, comfort and location.

Yes, an English-speaking tour leader accompanies the journey, with knowledgeable local city guides in Rabat, Meknes, Fes and Marrakech. Their insights bring Morocco's history, architecture and cultural traditions to life, from the imperial medinas to historic monuments and local neighbourhoods.

Morocco Explorer includes a traditional Fassi cooking class in Fes, a Moroccan calligraphy workshop in Marrakech and an evening of Gnaoua music in the Sahara. Travellers also explore historic medinas, Roman ruins, traditional kasbahs and UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou, gaining an appreciation of Morocco's rich cultural heritage.

Yes! If you'd like to spend more time exploring Morocco, World Expeditions offers several ways to extend your adventure. Continue into the Anti-Atlas Mountains on our Morocco Explorer and the Anti-Atlas tour (MAD), discover remote mountain landscapes on Jebel Saghro: Morocco's Lost World (JSL), trek through the Sahara on Chigaga: The Sahara Beyond the Road (SCG), or unwind on the Atlantic coast with our Essaouira Sojourn (ESS). Ask our team about combining trips and suitable departure dates.

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