The Ultimate Moroccan Tapestry: A 12-Day Journey from Cities to the Sahara

Today is a day of dramatic contrasts. We’ll begin at the windswept ruins of Volubilis, a sprawling Roman outpost where you can walk in the footsteps of caesars among ancient temples and stunningly preserved mosaics. From there, our journey turns north into the rugged beauty of the Rif Mountains. Here, nestled in a valley, is the enchanting city of Chefchaouen. Arriving in this "Blue City," a peaceful sanctuary of blue-washed buildings, you'll have time to explore before a short walk up to the old Spanish Mosque for a spectacular sunset.

After a quiet morning snapping photos in Chefchaouen’s people-less streets, we travel south to Fes, Morocco's cultural and spiritual capital. As we arrive, we’ll pause at the ruins of the Merenid Tombs. From this hilltop vantage point, you can gaze down upon the ancient medina as the sun begins to set. As the city lights start to twinkle and the evening call to prayer echoes through the valley, you'll feel the magic of Fes settle over you before retiring to your traditional riad.

With two full days, you can truly immerse yourself in this living medieval city. On your first day, a local guide will lead you through the beautiful, bewildering labyrinth of Fes el Bali. You'll visit the famous 11th-century Chouara Tannery and marvel at the intricate beauty of the Al Attarine Madrasa. On your second day, delve deeper into the city's artistic legacy at the Batha Museum, watch master artisans at work at a Ceramics and Tile Collective, and find a moment of peace in the lush Jnan Sbil gardens.

Today is a day of epic travel and dramatic landscapes. We leave Fes and journey south, climbing through the cool cedar forests of the Middle Atlas mountains, home to playful Barbary macaque monkeys. After crossing high mountain passes, we’ll descend towards the Ziz Valley, a stunning ribbon of lush palm groves that cuts a path of life through the arid terrain. Soon, the first majestic sand dunes of Erg Chebbi will rise on the horizon. Here, you’ll trade your vehicle for a camel and begin a timeless trek into the golden sand as the sun begins to set, arriving at your traditional Berber camp for the night.

Wake to an unforgettable Saharan sunrise. After a morning exploring the dunes, we journey west, stopping in the village of Khemliya to experience the soulful rhythms of Gnawa music and visiting the chaotic, authentic market in Rissani. Our journey then takes us to the spectacular Todra Gorge, a natural cathedral with towering red limestone cliffs, where you can take a leisurely walk and cool your feet in the refreshing river.

Today we embark on the most breathtaking drive of the trip, climbing up and over the spectacular High Atlas mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass. As you descend, the landscape shifts dramatically, and soon you'll feel the energy change as we plunge into the vibrant, intoxicating chaos of Marrakesh and its legendary Jemaa el-Fna square. As night falls, this vast space transforms into an unforgettable open-air carnival of snake charmers, musicians, storytellers, and food stalls.

Today is for a full immersion into the soul of Marrakesh. With its Berber roots, the "Red City" pulses with a unique energy. Dive into the dazzling labyrinth of the souks, visit the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, and discover the serene beauty of the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a former Islamic school that is a sanctuary of intricate craftsmanship. Get lost in the alleyways, haggle for treasures, and let the city's magical rhythm guide you.

Enjoy a final Moroccan breakfast and use your last morning for one last treasure hunt. You might explore the grand palaces of the Kasbah area, like the opulent 19th-century Bahia Palace or the historic Saadian Tombs, for a final taste of Moroccan splendor. When the time comes, you’ll say your goodbyes and transfer to the airport for your departing flight, filled with the memories of an epic journey through this incredible country.