Seagulls flying over Essaouira | Morocco
FROM: USD $2,015 pp

Combining the best of culture and coastal bliss, this two week tour of Morocco ensures you won't miss out on any of the key sights - the Imperial Cities of Marrakech, Fes, Rabat and Meknes, the dunes of the Sahara, ancient ruins and more, and then rewards you with a few days of rest and relaxation the Atlantic Coast in Essaouira.

Inclusions
Itinerary
Prices & Dates
Hotels
COVID Safe Guide
Reviews

Trip Highlights

Essaouira - Spend three days in this charming seaside city on the Atlantic Coast
Casablanca - Morocco's largest city
Meknes - A great Imperial city
Fes - The oldest medieval city in the world, medina dye pits and tanneries
Todra Gorge - Towering red canyon
Marrakech - UNESCO-listed medina, mosque, palaces and souks
Rabat - The lively capital city
Volubilis - UNESCO-listed Roman ruins
Erg Chebbi sand dunes - Beginning of the Sahara
Ait Benhaddou - UNESCO Listed ancient kasbah

Included

Breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 3 dinners inclusive of a traditional Berber meal at our Sahara camp
Guided sightseeing - Casablanca, Rabat, Volubilis, Fes, Merzouga, Todra Gorge, Ait Benhaddou and Marrakech
Escorted by a licensed English speaking Moroccan tour guide from day 1 to 9
Private transfers from Marrakech to Essaouira and Essaouira to Casablanca
All transportation and transfers in private air-conditioned tourism vehicles
12 nights 3-4 star hotels and riads and 1 night camping at a Berber desert camp in the Sahara Desert (hotel upgrade available)
Camel trek into the Sahara Desert
Specialist local guides at some sites
Airport arrival and departure transfer on days 1 and 13
All road taxes and tolls

Not Included

International flights and visa
Entrance Fees: USD$75-85pp, paid in local currency
Tip for your tour guide and driver. We recommend you allow USD$2-3 per day, per traveller for your guide and USD$1-2 per day, per traveller for your driver. Tipping your guide and driver is an entirely personal gesture
Tipping Kitty: USD$45-55pp, paid in local currency

Itinerary

Day 1

Casablanca

Saturday. Upon arrival at the airport in Casablanca, you’ll be met and transferred to our hotel in the city. The remainder of the day is free for you enjoy at your own leisure. Why not find a restaurant in town to try the local cuisine?
Overnight: Casablanca

Day 2

Marrakech City Tour

Casablanca - Marrakech. This morning after breakfast we head to Marrakech to meet the rest of the group before embarking on a guided city tour of Marrakech. Inside the rose coloured medina walls is a tangle of winding streets and alleys that open onto verdant gardens and bustling souks. At the heart of the medina is Djemaa El Fna, the city's exuberant market place and towering over it, is the famous Koutoubia Mosque, the tallest building in the city.
Overnight: Marrakech  |  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3

Ait Benhaddou

Marrakech - Ait Benhaddou - Ouarzazate. Departing the city this morning we travel across the plains of haouz and reach the great High Atlas mountains. Climbing over the pass of Tizi n Tichka, we stop for lunch and then continue onwards with great views over the Mountains and valleys to Ait Benhaddou. This incredible ancient fortified Kasbah was built for defence purposes high on a hill and is a stunningly well preserved medieval city which has famously featured in many blockbuster movies, including Gladiator and Laurence of Arabia as its beauty is unequal to any other fortified kasbah in south Morocco. Carrying on we continue south to the Hollywood of North Africa – Ouarzazate (pronounced war-zazat). Ouarzazate is famous for being the filming location for many other Hollywood blockbusters and famous TV shows including James Bond – The Living Daylights, The Mummy and more recently Game of Thrones.
Overnight: Ouarzazate  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

Camel trek into the Sahara

Ouarzazate - Todra Gorge - Merzouga (Sahara). This morning we begin our journey into the Sahara with a medley of palm trees, rose fields and magnificent gorges. Travelling from Ouarzazate, there is a possibility of visiting the kasbah Amherdhil in Skoura before seeing the rose fields and reaching scenic Todra Gorge. Surrounded by towering vertical limestone cliffs reaching heights of 1000ft, it is known as Morocco’s Grand Canyon. The charm of Todra lies in its changing colours as the sun slowly moves from east to west. After time to wander through Todra we hit the road again for Merzhouga – our base before we head into the Sahara. Depending on the time of year, spend the afternoon relaxing and swimming before climbing aboard our camels for an incredible trek into the Sahara Desert to watch a beautiful sunset and spend the night at our remote Berber Camp, nestled amongst the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi. We enjoy local food, music and an amazing night camping in the Sahara.

If you would prefer the comfort of a hotel with en-suite facilities this evening, opt for our Sahara hotel alternative at no additional cost. Please do let us know your preferred option at the time of booking.
Overnight: Berber Camp  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5

Merzouga

Merzouga (Sahara) - Fes. Departing early, we climb back on our camels disembarking for a truly stunning sunrise. After freshening up and breakfast in Merzouga we’re back on the road heading for Fes. It’s a long drive today however there is a lot to see on the way. We’ll pass through cedar forests full of Barbary Macaque monkeys on our way through the Moyen Atlas mountains. Just before Fes we stop at Ifrane – a beautiful town often likened to a Swiss Alpine resort. Along the way we also start to see our first glimpse of Morocco’s nomadic Berbers – travelling across the mountains and often staying in make shift tents as they head to their next destination. We arrive into Fes in the early evening.
Overnight: Fes  |  Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6

Fes

Fes is the oldest and largest medieval city in the world and its medina is a cacophony of aromas, sights and sounds. This morning we enjoy a guided tour of Fes el Bali - the old walled city. This fascinating medina is a veritable rabbit warren of 9400 alleys that often finish with dead ends – so be sure to stay close to the group! We also visit the dye-pits and tanneries before lunch in the medina. The remainder of the day is at leisure – why not take part in an optional Tagine Making Class or a night of Moroccan entertainment and food at a restaurant in town (both payable locally).
Overnight: Fes  |  Breakfast

Day 7

Volubilis & Meknes

Fes - Volubilis - Meknes - Rabat. Departing Fes this morning we visit the fascinating UNESCO listed Roman ruins of Volubilis, which date back to AD40. Continuing on we stop at the Imperial City of Meknes, which became known as the Versailles of Morocco due to its impressive buildings and elaborate monuments. After lunch and some free time our final stop of the day is Rabat – Morocco’s capital where we overnight.
Overnight: Rabat  |  Breakfast

Day 8

Rabat & Casablanca

Rabat - Casablanca - Marrakech. This morning we take a guided tour of Rabat and visit some of the capital’s highlights, including the impressive Chellah - a necropolis and complex of ancient, medieval ruins, the Royal Palace and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. After lunch we continue to Casablanca where we visit the Hassan II Mosque, which has the tallest minaret and is the third largest mosque in the world - it can hold 25,000 worshippers at any one time. After our visit to the mosque we say goodbye to our fellow passengers leaving us in Casablanca and continue on to Marrakech for the night.
Overnight: Marrakech  |  Breakfast

Day 9

Essaouira

Marrakech - Essaouira. Today we have a leisurely morning before starting our journey to Essaouira on Morocco's Atlantic Coast via private transfer, and upon arrival enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure. Why not find a restaurant in the charming old town and try the local cuisine.
Overnight: Essaouira   |  Breakfast

Days 10-12

Free time in Essaouira

Essaouira - Casablanca. Spend the next three days exploring the sights and delights of Essaouira at your own pace. Set on the rugged shores of the breezy Atlantic Coast, this charming seaside city offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech. While away the days here exploring its winding streets lined with whitewash houses, picking your way through the shops in its ancient medina, or by sitting at an ocean-facing restaurant sipping on a cup of coffee. During the warmer months why not try some water sports too, as the windy shores here offer ideal conditions for wind and kite surfing. On the evening of day 12 a private transfer will take you back to Casablanca for the night.
Overnight: Essaouira (2), Casablanca (1)  |  Breakfast x 3

Day 13

Casablanca

Thursday. Our amazing tour of Morocco ends today after hotel check out. An included onward departure transfer to Casablanca airport will be provided.
Breakfast

Need to start your tour in Marrakech?

If you find that Marrakech is the better airport for you to fly to and from then why not check out our Best of Morocco tour. The start dates and duration is the same and you'll still visit everything the same as this tour.

Prices & Dates

Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to those who don’t have anyone to share a room with or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.

Read More
Easter departure, book early!
Easter Departure
Please note this tour departs on a Tuesday.
Tuesday departure
New Year's departure, book early!
New Year's Departure
Available
Contact us to book
Not Available
2022
Twin Share
Single Room
USD $2,015
USD $2,695
09 Apr - 21 Apr Easter departure, book early!
Easter departure, book early!
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
16 Apr - 28 Apr Easter departure, book early!
Easter departure, book early!
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,105
USD $2,825
USD $2,015
USD $2,695
2023
Twin Share
Single Room
USD $2,015
USD $2,695

Extra Prices

Twin Share
Single Room
Post Tour Accommodation - Casablanca
USD $125
USD $175
Pre Tour Accommodation - Casablanca
USD $125
USD $175

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

Hotel Diwan , Casablanca

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Located close to the city centre, Hotel Diwan is a contemporary hotel just a short walk from the main train station. The modern guest rooms are air conditioned with flat screen TVs and en suite facilities. The onsite restaurant offers a buffet breakfast every morning as well as an array of international cuisine in the evenings for dinner. The hotel also has an on site gym, spa and complimentary wi-fi is available.

Hotel Club Val D’Anfa , Casablanca

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Located between the sea and Anfa mount, Hotel Club Val d’Anfa is in one of the most prestigious residential districts of Casablanca. Combining warm colours, ceramic tiles and fine wood, the interior decor was inspired by Amazigh art. The attractive guest rooms contain all the modern amenities needed for your stay and face either the sea, hotel gardens or the Casablanca Corniche. Boasting three restaurants, two bars, a fitness centre, spa and pool - there's certainly plenty to keep guests entertained.

Adam Park Hotel & Spa, Marrakech

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Guests can expect a very comfortable stay at the Adam Park Hotel & Spa. Each of the elegant rooms feature a patio or balcony with views of the surrounding area. Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining. Several restaurants offer a variety of options including Italian specialities, Moroccan favourites and international cuisine. There are also plenty of ways to unwind after a day exploring Marrakech, with an outdoor pool, fitness centre and a spa offering rejuvenating massage treatments.

Riad dar Chamaa , Ouarzazate

Our Category: Standard   |   Regional Category: Standard Riad

In the classic kasbah style, Riad dar Chamaa is set within the Ouarzazate palm grove with fantatsic views of the surrounding Atlas mountains. All guest rooms are air conditioned with en suite facilities. They are designed in a classic Moroccan riad style with marble floors. The riad boasts a beautiful central courtyard and a refreshing outdoor pool complete with sun loungers for relaxing. The riad also boasts a tea lounge, restaurant and pool bar.

Desert Camp, Merzouga

Our Category: Simple   |   Regional Category: Standard Camp

Set amongst the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi, the Berber camp is designed with a traditional Moroccan theme. The permanent tents include multiple beds and electricity (after night fall) Camping out in the desert is a wonderful experience, due to the lack of light pollution, the stars come out in abundance and really are a sight to behold.

Hotel Atlas Saiss Fes, Fes

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Hotel Atlas Saiss Fes is a popular 4 star hotel, conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from Nouvelle Ville. The hotel offers spacious and comfortable guest rooms, equipped with free WiFi, flat screen TVs, air conditioning and en suite bathrooms. Facilities include a restaurant, 24 hour room service and a sauna (at an additional cost). Start the day with a generous continental breakfast before heading out to explore the enchanting imperial city of Fes. After a busy day, relax on the hotel terrace, enjoy a tasty meal at the restaurant or rejuvenate in the sauna.

Le Pietri Urban Hotel, Rabat

Our Category: Standard   |   Regional Category: 3 Star Hotel

In the heart of Rabat, Le Pietri Urban Hotel is a modern accommodation popular with business travellers and tourists alike. Guest rooms are tastefully furnished with excellent en suite facilities. The hotel also has a restaurant and a beautiful terrace so you can soak up the Moroccan sun whilst having your breakfast. Well located in the centre of Morocco's capital Rabat.

Riad Dar Alia, Rabat

Our Category: Standard   |   Regional Category: Standard Riad

Boasting a fantastic location, just a short walk from the entrance to the Kasbah of the Udayas, Riad Dar Alia is wonderful choice for a stay in the capital. It offers a number of uniquely decorated rooms in a traditional Moroccan style. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property and a restaurant serves a variety of Moroccan specialities.

Riad Zahra , Essaouira

Our Category: Standard   |   Regional Category: Standard Riad

Located in the residential district, the Zahra offers calm, relaxation and a peaceful stay. Its comfortable guestrooms are decorated in traditional Moroccan style and are equipped with an en suite and satellite TV. The property has a restaurant serving Moroccan and international specialities. There is another restaurant that serves grilled dishes. Riad Zahra is an ideal starting point for nautical activities or to discover Essaouira and the surrounding area. For your entertainment, the hotel proposes numerous activities including desert trips in a 4x4, surfing and kite surfing lessons.

Reviews

Travellers have rated this tour as 5 out of 5 based on 4 recent reviews

Very few negatives. Hotel access to WIFI could be improved. Hotel in Casablanca upon arrival not great. Overall instead of an A+ - an A. Thank you for an incredible experience.

• Submitted 01 Oct 2019
Tour
Guide
Country

The trip was amazing. We were a group of 10 - of which 8 made lasting friends. Lhoucine Baigha was our driver and I felt safe with him behind the wheel. Lhoucine Ouzaouit - oh my word! What an excellent guide always friendly and helpful.

Overall it was a great trip. I envy the future groups that go with Lhoucine as their guide!

• Submitted 02 May 2019
Tour
Guide
Country

Fabulous tour and 5 star guide . Lhoucine was extremely knowledgeable about Morocco and conveyed his knowledge clearly and at times with wonderful humour.

The pace of the tour was appropriate and we loved the last days in Essaouira

I am off on another On the Go Tour, The Road to Jordan and hope it will be as worry free and as fabulous as this one was.

• Submitted 02 May 2019
Tour
Guide
Country

The tour was amazing - it was probably the best trip I have ever done! The country is interesting and the trip really broadened my horizons. It was the perfect combination of fun, historical exposure and cultural experiences.

Our tour guide, Hicham Tora, was exceptional. He is kind, attentive, knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the country, its sights and its people. He really went beyond the call of duty by teaching the curious among us some Arabic and Tamazicht phrases. His insights and enthusiasm about the country is probably the main reason why I fell in love with Morocco. I would definitely go back (inshallah).

• Submitted 15 Apr 2018
Tour
Guide
Country

In Brief

Range
Trip Type
Starts
Casablanca
Ends
Casablanca
Departs
Saturdays
Group Size
Min 4 / Max 24
Hotel Rating
4 star hotels & traditional riads
Tour Guide
Yes - escorted by a tour guide
Meals
Breakfast: 12, Lunch: 3, Dinner: 3
Visiting
Casablanca, Marrakech, Ouarzazate, Merzouga, Fes, Rabat, Essaouira, Ait Benhaddou, Todra Gorge, Meknes
Countries
Purple sky behind the city of Casablanca
Click to play videoBeautiful sky over the famous Djemaa el Fna in Marrakech
Click to play videoSand coloured kasbah in Ait Benhaddou
Click to play videoThe rocky sides of the cliffs in Todra Gorge
Shadows of camels on the sand in Merzouga
Click to play videoMulti-coloured tanneries in Fes
Click to play videoAncient gate in Meknes
Purple sky behind the city of Casablanca
The walled city of Essaouira sitting on the edge of the water

Very few negatives. Hotel access to WIFI could be improved. Hotel in Casablanca upon arrival not great. Overall instead of an A+ - an A. Thank you for an incredible experience.

Barbara Bunker
OTG001770Casablanca to Essaouira - 13 daysMiddle East & North AfricaSignatureMiddle East & North Africafalse0Moroccohttps://www.onthegotours.com/Morocco/Casablanca-to-Essaouira-13-dayshttps://www.onthegotours.com/repository/Seagulls-flying-over-Essaouira--Morocco-Tours--On-The-Go-Tours-287081455802510_crop_flip_300_300_f2f2f2_center-center.jpgGroup_Tours