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Map of Premium Morocco Highlights with Essaouira including Morocco

Fall in love with the flavours of Morocco, from Casablanca to Marrakech

Take in the rich history and diverse culture of Morocco on an 11-day journey through this North African gem. Marvel at the Mosque of Hassan II in French-infused Casablanca, discover the charming streets of the Medina in magical Meknes, uncover ancient history at the Roman ruins of Volubilis, wander through the labyrinth of twisting alleyways in Fes el Bali, relax in the lakeside settlement of Bine el Ouidane and, as the sun goes down, watch Jemaa el Fna come to life with markets and magicians in Marrakech and relax in the European-tinged Essaouira. Indulge your senses on a mesmerising adventure bursting with vibrant colours, spiced aromas and warm hospitality.

Start
Casablanca, Morocco
Finish
Marrakech, Morocco
Destination
Morocco
Style
Premium
Theme
Explorer
Code
XMPSC
Physical rating
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1, Max 12

Why you'll love this trip

premium accommodation

Our best accommodation and highest level of service.

premium experiences

Unusual, exceptional and authentic on-trip experiences.

premium knowledge

Led by our most experienced and highest rated local leaders.

  • Marvel at the Mosque of Hassan II in Casablanca, dive into the heart of Fes’s medina, witness the evening transformation of Djemaa el-Fna in Marrakech and unwind in the laidback seaside city of Essaouira.

  • Get to the heart of the real Morocco as you travel with an experienced local leader, swap stories with the locals in Fes and visit a family in the Atlas Mountains.

  • Taste the best of Morocco’s cuisine as you enjoy a meal at one of Casablanca’s best restaurants, eat pastillas with a local family (Exclusive Experience), make mint tea in the Atlas Mountains and take part in a tasting tour in Marrakech.

  • Uncover the most impressive Roman ruins in Morocco during an Exclusive Experience at the World Heritage site of Volubilis, where you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch made with locally sourced ingredients.

  • Experience incredible beauty, world-class hospitality and panoramic views during your Feature Stay at Widiane Resort, a tranquil oasis surrounded by the Atlas Mountains.

Is this trip right for you?

  • In 2023, it is expected Ramadan will take place from 22 March to 20 April. Travelling during this holy month can be a rewarding cultural experience, however some regular services may not be available during the daytime, such as restaurants or coffee bars, and occasionally travel can be disrupted by events. Your leader will adjust the itinerary accordingly, but please consider your travel arrangements carefully before booking travel for this period.

Intrepid Travel group posing with pillars of ruins in Voulibis, Morocco
Peregrine Adventures morocco marrakech locals colourful music
Local man walks through market street, Fes, Morocco
delicious tagine in Morocco
Peregrine Adventures morocco casablanca locals sitting mosque
Morocco Essaouira Medina entrance
Essaouira fishing harbour
Fresh barbeque seafood lunch

Itinerary
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Welcome to Morocco! On arrival at Casablanca Airport, you will be met by an Intrepid representative and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure begins at 6 pm with an important welcome meeting. If you arrive with time to spare, a great option for your limited time in Casablanca is to visit the Villa des Arts. This gorgeous Art Deco gallery holds numerous exhibitions of contemporary Moroccan and international art. If you are looking for a different type of cultural experience, then you can discover a unique and fascinating part of Moroccan history at the Museum of Judaism. This evening, celebrate the beginning of a new adventure with a delicious dinner with your group, set amongst traditional decor. Nowhere is Morocco’s cultural heritage more evident than in its food, and tonight you’ll have the chance to try classic dishes like tagine and couscous.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Odyssee Center or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Casablanca - Welcome Dinner
Optional Activities
  • Casablanca - The Medina and Beyond Urban Adventure - MAD700
  • Casablanca - Villa des Arts Gallery & Museum (entrance fee) - Free
  • Casablanca - Jewish Museum (entrance fee) - MAD50
Meals Included
  • Dinner
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. Please provide flights details at least 14 days in advance so we can arrange your airport collection.

This morning you will visit one of the most impressive sites in Casablanca – the mighty Mosque of Hassan II. Second only in size to the great mosque at Mecca, the huge building sits partly on land and partly over sea and is one of the only religious sites here that’s open to non-Muslims. Later, leave Casablanca and drive to Meknes, where you’ll explore the charming streets of the medina – the old walled section of the city. There’s something particularly special about exploring this lesser-known medina as the locals go about their daily lives.

Drive on to the mosaic-filled Roman ruins of Volubilis, where a local guide will show you around and help you imagine the bustling city that once was. Enjoy a picnic lunch of fresh bread, cheese and seasonal fruits and olives from the market. In the late afternoon, continue to Fes, your home for the next two nights.
Accommodation
  • Riad Yacout or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Casablanca - Hassan II Mosque
  • Meknes - Medina walking tour
  • Volubilis - Entrance and guided tour
  • Volubilis - Picnic Lunch
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Special Information
Today’s total driving time is approximately 4.5 hours.

Today you’ll discover Fes’s huge, well-preserved medieval old city and the mother of all medinas. Walk through the twisting streets and alleyways, passing donkeys piled high with goods, and explore the speciality sections that divide the souk as your leader talks you through interesting customs and traditions of Moroccan people. Passing historic khans, dye-pits and stalls loaded with fragrant herbs and spices, with the squawk of chickens and sounds of copper craftsmen at work filling the air, it’s easy to imagine yourself back in the Middle Ages. Explore the old city, visiting the ornate inner courtyards of centuries-old Islamic school El-Attarine Madrasa and Funduq al-Najjarin, a splendid 18th-century inn.

Prepare for a treat this evening as you are warmly welcomed into the home of a local family for a pastilla dinner. Learn how the iconic Moroccan pie is made as you chat with your friendly hosts about life in Fes.
Accommodation
  • Riad Yacout or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Fes - Home-cooked Pastilla Dinner
  • Fes - Funduk Nejjarine
  • Fes - Medersa El Attarine
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Travel from Fes to Bin el-Ouidane, with plenty of breaks along the way to appreciate the ever-changing Moroccan landscape. Visit an Amazigh (Berber) family in the Khenifra region for a truly memorable experience and a priceless insight into their unique way of life. The family will demonstrate how to make the perfect brew of mint tea and will provide a home-cooked lunch using locally grown ingredients. Learn about their customs, traditions and what life looks like in the Atlas Mountains. Later you’ll arrive in Bin el-Ouidane, a small settlement perfectly placed on the bank of the lake, surrounded by sheer rocks. Your Feature Stay accommodation sits at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, perched on the edge of the huge, glittering lake. There’s a blissful afternoon to be had floating in the paradisiacal swimming pool or soaking in your surroundings on the fabulous terrace.
Accommodation
  • Widiane Resort (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Khenifra - Home-cooked lunch
  • Khenifra - Tea-making demonstration
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Today’s total driving time is approximately 7 hours.

Today you’ll head out onto the water, hopping in a speedboat to see more of the turquoise lake and surrounding rocky gorges. Float over the soothing waters and take in the views. You’ll stop to enjoy a refreshing lunch at a shady spot overlooking the lake before heading back to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish – lounge by the infinity pool, hike the surrounding mountain trails or treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage or jacuzzi session at the health spa.
Accommodation
  • Widiane Resort (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Bine el Ouidane – Boat Trip with Picnic Lunch
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Today you will travel from Bin el-Ouidane to Marrakech. There’s no rush as the scenery on the way is always interesting, and you will enjoy a stop en route at the impressive Ouzoud Falls. On arrival in Marrakech, head to the great square of Djemaa el-Fna, one of the largest public spaces in the world and the city's most iconic landmark. Enjoy an orientation tour with your Trip Leader to get to know this vibrant city. As day turns into night, the square transforms into a hive of activity. The evening is yours to explore. Perhaps opt for dinner on one of the restaurant balconies overlooking the humming square with views of the Koutoubia Mosque.
Accommodation
  • BCK Art Riad or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Ouzoud - Ouzoud Falls
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s total driving time is approximately 4 hours.

After breakfast today, meet your local guide and set off on a morning tour of the old medina, through the bustling souks that are the lifeblood of the city. Explore tranquil courtyards filled with the scent of orange blossom and the many salons and chambers that make up Bahia Palace. Stop by the Koutoubia Mosque; the inside is for Muslims only, but the famous minaret is a sight to behold. Then walk back through the streets of the old medina to Djemaa el-Fna. The food here is best experienced like a local, so be sure to bring your appetite as your local guide will take you for a special tasting session where you’ll try a range of seasonal delights such as freshly squeezed orange juice and fried Moroccan donuts. The rest of the day is free to explore further. Perhaps visit Le Jardin Secret, a traditional medina garden with a magnificent courtyard, or head back into the medina and practice your haggling skills. For your final evening, perhaps join your group for a farewell dinner – your leader will be able to recommend some fantastic local restaurants that are worth raising a toast to.
Accommodation
  • BCK Art Riad or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Marrakech - Palais Bahia
  • Marrakech - Djemaa El Fna tasting walk
  • Marrakech - Medina walking tour
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

After breakfast leave for Essaouira, a city where the medina brushes up against the Atlantic Ocean and where you will spend the next two nights. Get to know this laidback and windswept city during an orientation walk with your leader who will help you navigate a maze of market stalls and narrow streets while sharing insights on local life in one of North Africa's most attractive places. Pass the harbour filled with colourful boats and explore the fish souk. Here you will choose a catch of the day and take it to a local-filled restaurant – follow their lead and hand over your market purchase for it to be grilled for the freshest of meals. Your leader will also take you to the fresh vegetables markets where you will choose your salads and veggies to accompany your seafood lunch. Enjoy a delicious meal together with the rest of your group. The evening is yours to uncover Essaouira further.
Accommodation
  • Dar L'ousssia or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Essaouira - Seafood Market Lunch
  • Essaouira - Leader-led orientation walk
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Special Information
As this is a combination trip, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today. On Day 7 your leader will let you know what time you will depart for Essaouira and what to expect on this section of your trip. They will be happy to answer any questions you may have and will be on hand to ensure your smooth departure today. Today’s driving time is approximately 2.5 hours.

The name Essaouira means image, which is appropriate for the picturesque town. This artists' town was once home to sizeable British and Jewish populations, and its charm has seduced people like Orson Welles and Jimi Hendrix, who (according to local legend) spent much of his time here in the 1960s. Enjoy a free day to wander the city’s charming sandstone streets, giving way to the cart-haulers calling ‘ballak, ballak’. Your leader will offer advice on the best ways to spend the day. Perhaps explore Essaouira’s magnificent coast and golden sand dunes on horseback. Discover the Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum and its collection of artefacts, woodwork, carpets and stringed instruments, or sit back and watch the kite surfers ride the crashing waves. You can also discover the taste of Morocco in a cooking class, or head outside of the city to the beautiful surroundings on a daytrip.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Cote Ocean or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Essaouira - Horse Riding - MAD250
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

The morning is free for you to explore further. Perhaps pick up some local handicrafts at the eye-catching market stalls, or enjoy a final coffee in the square to soak up the easy-going rhythm of this Moroccan town with a European seaside twist. In the afternoon, drive back to Marrakech. Once you have settled in to your hotel, you will likely be drawn back to the Djemaa el-Fna, and its surrounding medina. Eating out at one of the many outdoor restaurants lining the square is a great way to finish your adventure.
Accommodation
  • 2Ciels Hotel or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s driving time is approximately 2.5 hours.

Your trip ends today after breakfast. Check-out time is usually around midday and you are free to leave at any time. If you have arranged a private airport transfer you will be advised of the pick-up time. Additional accommodation can be pre-booked if you wish to spend more time exploring here. Speak to your leader about the wealth of extra activities to do around Marrakech.
Optional Activities
  • Marrakech - Heart of the Atlas Mountains cycling day trip with lunch - MAD2000
  • Marrakech - Imlil & Aroumd day trip - MAD1817
  • Marrakech - Hot Air Balloon Ride - MAD2050
  • Marrakech - Tajine Cookery Class Urban Adventure. - MAD640
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

10 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle

Accommodation

Comfortable Hotel (8 nights), Feature Stay (2 nights)

Included activities

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Casablanca - Welcome Dinner
  • Casablanca - Hassan II Mosque
  • Meknes - Medina walking tour
  • Volubilis - Entrance and guided tour
  • Volubilis - Picnic Lunch
  • Fes - Home-cooked Pastilla Dinner
  • Fes - Funduk Nejjarine
  • Fes - Medersa El Attarine
  • Khenifra - Home-cooked lunch
  • Khenifra - Tea-making demonstration
  • Bine el Ouidane – Boat Trip with Picnic Lunch
  • Ouzoud - Ouzoud Falls
  • Marrakech - Palais Bahia
  • Marrakech - Djemaa El Fna tasting walk
  • Marrakech - Medina walking tour
  • Essaouira - Seafood Market Lunch
  • Essaouira - Leader-led orientation walk

Premium Inclusions

  • Arrival airport transfer
  • Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport
  • Luggage transfer
  • Daily breakfast and signature local meal experiences
  • 24/7 on-ground support

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our Premium Morocco Highlights with Essaouira trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

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Important notes

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. There are a limited number of single supplements available per trip departure. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 
3. Travel is always an adventure and, as destinations reopen, there are a few challenges as everyone gets back up to speed and adjusts to the new normal. Our leaders are experts when it comes to dealing with anything unexpected along the journey, so pack your understanding and flexibility, sit back and relax while they take care of the rest.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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