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Map of Premium Morocco Explorer including Morocco

Varied culture, landscapes and cuisine await in magical Morocco

Few places on the planet offer the marvellous diversity you’ll find in Morocco. In 12 days, this Premium adventure will take you through buzzing cities, tranquil oases, vast deserts and into the homes of welcoming local people. Explore Meknes’s animated medina, the historical Old Town of Fes and the lively Djemaa el-Fna square in Marrakech. Bake bread with the locals in Ourika, eat pastilla in the home of a Fes family and spend an unforgettable evening beneath the stars in the Sahara. From the country’s much-loved highlights to all the little moments that make up daily life, fall in love with the real Morocco.

Start
Casablanca, Morocco
Finish
Marrakech, Morocco
Destination
Morocco
Style
Premium
Theme
Explorer
Code
XMPF
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.

  • Discover Morocco’s culinary wonders during Exclusive Experiences, including a picnic at the ruins of Volubilis, homecooked pastilla dinner in Fes and medfouna demonstration in Khemliya.

  • Soak in sweeping views from the rooftop of your Feature Stay hotel in the heart of the Fes medina, offering incredible hospitality and beautiful, traditional touches in every corner.

  • Dive into the Moroccan way of life as you travel with a local leader and guides, visit a typical home in Fes and meet the women of the Tawesna social enterprise in Ait Benhaddou.

  • Marvel at iconic sights during visits to the ruins of Volubilis, the remarkable Sahara Desert, the timeless Ait Benhaddou, the tranquil oasis of Skoura and the bustling cities of Fes and Marrakech.

  • Learn the tricks of the trade during an Exclusive Experience; a hands-on bread making workshop with local women at your accommodation in Ourika, then enjoy the delicious fresh bread as part of your breakfast.

Is this trip right for you?

  • In 2022, Ramadan will take place from 2 April to 1 May. 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.

Group riding camels through Sahara Desert, Morocco
Travellers at Air Benhaddou, Morocco
Peregrine Adventures morocco casablanca hassan ii mosque
Meet locals along the way through Morocco
Peregrine Adventures morocco marrakech market sweets man
Morocco-Volubilis-ruins
Morocco_Tafraout_Veggie Tagine
Two women admire jewellery in the market, Morocco

Itinerary
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Welcome to Morocco! Your adventure begins in Casablanca, where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. A welcome meeting will take place here at 6pm, where you will meet your local leader and your new travel companions. If you arrive with time to spare, you may like to visit the Villa des Arts, a gorgeous Art Deco gallery featuring exhibitions of contemporary Moroccan 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 wonderful banquet style dinner with your group, set in the courtyard of a beautiful riad. 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, couscous and pastilla.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Idou Anfa or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Casablanca - Welcome Dinner
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
Optional Activities
  • Casablanca - The Medina and Beyond Urban Adventure - MAD948
  • 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.

This morning you will visit one of the most impressive sites in Casablanca - the massive edifice of the 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 open to non-Muslims. Later, leave Casablanca and drive north along the coast to Rabat, the elegant capital of Morocco and its first Imperial city. Start your visit with a walk through the medina and souks, then explore the lovely walled quarter known as the Kasbah des Oudaias, where you’ll enjoy an included mint tea in a little treasure of a café overlooking the ocean and Bou Regreg river. Afterwards, continue the walk to visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the vast minaret of the Mosque of Hassan II. In the late afternoon, continue on to Meknes, the former capital of Morocco.
Accommodation
  • Riad Ritaj or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Casablanca - Hassan II Mosque
  • Rabat - Hassan Tower
  • Rabat - Kasbah Les Oudayas
  • Rabat - Mausoleum Mohammed V
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s total driving time is approximately 3.5 hours.

This morning you will discover the charming streets of Meknes’s 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. Walk to the shrine of Moulay Ismail, visit the granaries and stop by a local market selling vegetables, olives and sweets. Drive on to the 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. Continue on to the city of Fes and arrive at the Riad Salam, a beautifully restored oasis in the heart of the medina and your Feature Stay for the next two nights. From dramatic mosaic floors to carved cedar wood ceilings and everything in between - this building is a treat for the eyes. Relax in spacious rooms with modern comforts, unwind in the hammam or head to the roof terrace for sweeping views of Fes. 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 Salam (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Meknes - Medina walking tour
  • Meknes - Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail
  • Volubilis - Entrance and guided tour
  • Volubilis - Picnic Lunch
  • Fes - Home-cooked Pastilla Dinner
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Today’s total driving time is approximately 3.5 hours. Please remember to pack drinking water, a hat, sunglasses and sun cream for today’s activities as it may get hot and you will be exposed to the sun.

Today head into the Old Town, known locally as Fes el Bali. Medieval Fes was one of the world's great centres of education and culture, both Islamic and Jewish. Its religious institutions and libraries are legendary, its mosques of great renown. Your leader will share stories of the city’s history as you walk through the twisting streets and alleyways, passing donkeys piled high with goods, and explore the specialty sections that divide the souk. Filled with historic khans, medresses and dye-pits, stalls loaded with fruits, herbs and soups, and where the squawk of chickens, smell of spice and sound of hammering of copper fills the air. Spend the day exploring the old city, visiting Al-Attarine Madrasa, the tanneries and the splendid Funduk Nejjarine, a beautifully restored 18th-century inn.
Accommodation
  • Riad Salam (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Fes - Medina walking tour
  • Fes - Al-Attarine Madrasa
  • Fes - Funduq al-Najjarin
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s experience will include shopping in carefully selected places. As the receipt of commissions or kickbacks in exchange for recommending shops, services or activities is ingrained in the culture of the Moroccan tourism industry, Intrepid has established a centralised system of receiving and distributing payments from these recommended suppliers. For more information on this please refer to the Important Notes section of Essential Trip Information or talk to your tour leader on the ground.

If you are not interested in shopping experience, you need to advise your tour leader about it beforehand. It is possible for you to have a free time during the tour; however, it will be impossible to set a meeting point inside the medina due to the fact it is so complicated to navigate. If you decide to leave the group, you will only be able to meet back with them in your hotel in Fes.

Today, leave the intensity of the city behind for the desert oasis town of Erfoud. Prepare for a long driving day and have your camera ready as there will be plenty of stops to appreciate the ever-changing Moroccan landscape along the way. Wind past olive groves, shepherds tending to their flocks, forests of cedar, pine and oak, and valleys filled with date palms – all with views of the High Atlas Mountains in the distance. Arrive in Erfoud, your gateway to the Sahara Desert. Built by the French in the early 1900s, the town features tightly packed red sand buildings that blend seamlessly into the desert surroundings. While here, be sure to try some dates fresh from the local market – the dates in Erfoud are so delicious they celebrate them with a festival every year.
Accommodation
  • Kasbah Hotel Xaluca or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Special Information
Today’s total driving time is approximately 7 hours.

Spend the morning exploring Khemliya, a village on the fringe of the orange-coloured Erg Chebbi sand dunes. This traditional Saharan village is known for a distinctive style of music and dance. For lunch today you will get to see how the local speciality dish of medfouna is made, and then sample some yourself. Then it’s time to do as the locals do and ride a camel through the desert towards your accommodation – a spectacular camp hidden away in the sand dunes of the Sahara. Here in this magical escape from the modern world you’ll experience the true essence of desert life. But the remote location doesn’t mean skimping on amenities – permanent tents feature large beds, en suite bathrooms and delightful, authentic décor. Tonight, embrace your extraordinary surroundings and enjoy a traditional feast beneath a sky jewelled with thousands of stars, followed by live Gnaoua music around an open fire.
Accommodation
  • Golden Camp or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Sahara Desert - Camel ride
  • Sahara Desert - Amazigh dinner with Gnaoua music
  • Khemliya - Village walking tour
  • Khemliya - Medfouna cooking demonstration
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
The camel rides on Days 8 and 9 are a romantic way to see the Sahara, but if you'd prefer, it's possible to be driven to and from the camp. Please let your booking agent know if you would prefer not to do the camel rides.

Start the day with a truly unforgettable experience – a camel ride across the desert during sunrise, watching the landscape turn remarkable shades of orange. After breakfast drive to Todra Gorge, a massive trench that rises over 250 metres to form one of the most dramatic and spectacular natural sights in Morocco. Continue your journey towards Skoura, stopping off along the way for lunch with a local family living within an old kasbah. Here you’ll enjoy some regional dishes and another look inside a typical Moroccan home. Arrive in Skoura, home to a historic oasis, sprawling palm plantations and a town dotted with mudbrick castles. Your accommodation for the evening is an excellent ecolodge, with charming rammed-earth bungalows, water conservation systems and a sweep of organic gardens; produce from which is used to create the wonderful meals served on site.
Accommodation
  • Sawadi Ecolodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Sahara Desert - Camel ride
  • Todra Gorge - Hike
  • Todra Gorge - Home-cooked Lunch
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Today’s total driving time is approximately 6 hours.

Today you will venture out from your lodge for a beautiful walk through the shady palm groves. The walk will take around two to three hours, depending on the interests of the group, and will be over gentle terrain. During your walk your leader will explain the importance of date farming in Morocco and you’ll see examples of the agricultural practices of the area. After your walk, visit the Kasbah Amridil, an iconic 17th century fortified residence that serves as a living museum. The kasbah bears its original form and is still maintained by the same family who built it, giving you a look at what life here was like 300 years ago – from goats wandering the courtyards to a traditional olive oil press and ovens. The rest of the afternoon is yours to unwind and relax at the lodge. You may like to stretch out beside the gorgeous pool with a good book – there are few better spots to while away an afternoon in the sunshine.
Accommodation
  • Sawadi Ecolodge or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Skoura - Palm grove walk
  • Skoura - Kasbah Amridil
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Depart Skoura and travel to Ait Benhaddou – a hilltop site almost unchanged since the 11th century. Its grand kasbah is one of the most beautiful in Morocco and the fortified village is a fine example of clay architecture. You may recognise the site from its long list of film and TV credits, including Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones and Gladiator. Walk through the winding streets of the Old Town, making your way to the top of the hill for some scenic views. Afterwards, visit Tawesna – a local teahouse on the river – for a tasty lunch including freshly made Amazigh bread, soup, Moroccan sweets, and of course some mint tea. This community-run establishment provides women with a small income to support themselves and their children. The women use natural ingredients sourced from local cooperatives to prepare tea and pastries, taking great pride in sharing their stories and giving visitors an authentic Amazigh experience. Continue to Ourika where you will spend the evening.
Accommodation
  • Dar Ikalimo or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Ait Benhaddou - Leader-led ksar walk
  • Ait Benhaddou - Lunch at Tawesna
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Special Information
Today’s total driving time is approximately 7 hours.

Your vehicle will drop you off a 20 minute walk from your hotel. Please note that while scenic, this walk is hilly. Your luggage will be taken to the hotel for you.

What better way to start the day than with freshly baked bread? Your accommodation employs women from the local village, and this morning they will invite you to join a hands-on bread making workshop, letting you in on the tricks of the trade. The fresh bread will then be enjoyed as part of your breakfast. Afterwards, set off to explore the Ourika Valley on a pleasant walk, expected to take no more than three hours, depending on the abilities and interests of the group. During the walk you’ll enjoy more insight into everyday life as the locals go about their mornings. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you will be met by a local from the village who will bring you a wonderful fresh lunch of bread, olives sourced from the area, couscous or tagine and seasonal fruits. Stop off at a scenic spot and enjoy a peaceful lunch.
Accommodation
  • Dar Ikalimo or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Ourika - Valley walk
  • Ourika - Home-cooked Picnic Lunch
  • Ourika - Bread making workshop
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Travel to Marrakech this morning. On arrival, meet with a local guide who will bring the magic of Marrakech to life as you 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. Walk back through the streets of the old medina to Djemaa el-Fna, stopping off to taste some of the marvellous freshly squeezed orange juice from a local stall – this is sure to be one of the most delicious glasses of orange juice you ever have. 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.
Accommodation
  • Riad BCK or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Marrakech - Palais Bahia
  • Marrakech - Medina walking tour
  • Marrakech - Fresh orange juice tasting
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s total driving time is approximately 1.5 hours.

Your trip ends today, after breakfast. Check-out time is usually around 12.00 noon 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 Marrakech.
Optional Activities
  • Marrakech - Hot Air Balloon Ride - MAD2050
  • Marrakech - Tajine Cookery Class Urban Adventure - MAD640
  • Marrakech - Heart of the Atlas Mountains cycling day trip with lunch - MAD2000
  • Marrakech - Asni & Ouirgane day trip with lunch - MAD1806
  • Marrakech - Imlil & Aroumd day trip - MAD1817
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

11 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle

Accommodation

Comfortable Hotel (9 nights), Feature Stay (2 nights)

Included activities

  • Casablanca - Welcome Dinner
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Casablanca - Hassan II Mosque
  • Rabat - Hassan Tower
  • Rabat - Kasbah Les Oudayas
  • Rabat - Mausoleum Mohammed V
  • Meknes - Medina walking tour
  • Meknes - Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail
  • Volubilis - Entrance and guided tour
  • Volubilis - Picnic Lunch
  • Fes - Home-cooked Pastilla Dinner
  • Fes - Medina walking tour
  • Fes - Al-Attarine Madrasa
  • Fes - Funduq al-Najjarin
  • Sahara Desert - Camel ride
  • Sahara Desert - Amazigh dinner with Gnaoua music
  • Khemliya - Village walking tour
  • Khemliya - Medfouna cooking demonstration
  • Todra Gorge - Hike
  • Todra Gorge - Home-cooked Lunch
  • Skoura - Palm grove walk
  • Skoura - Kasbah Amridil
  • Ait Benhaddou - Leader-led ksar walk
  • Ait Benhaddou - Lunch at Tawesna
  • Ourika - Valley walk
  • Ourika - Home-cooked Picnic Lunch
  • Ourika - Bread making workshop
  • Marrakech - Palais Bahia
  • Marrakech - Medina walking tour
  • Marrakech - Fresh orange juice tasting

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 Explorer trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

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Important notes

Travellers on Intrepid trips are required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. Read details here.

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.

View Essential Trip Information

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