Classic Morocco

• Half day city tour of Marrakech
• Visit the Jardin Majorelle

Enjoy a riveting half day tour of the ancient streets of Marrakech, accompanied by a specialist guide. You'll head from the bustling Medina, twisting your way through the kaleidoscopic souks, and arrive at breath-taking palaces and museums. The souks, under a bamboo roof to shade people from the summer sun, have a vast array of things to sell, all arranged in enticing colours, shapes and styles. You will be whisked around the souks, peering into and even haggling in different areas such as the spices, gold/silver, nuts and fruit souks. There will be a chance to see the metalworking and woodworking areas, and perhaps a visit to the underground communal bakeries where the bread for each local family is cooked. The tanneries are also a popular attraction, though you may wish to protect yourself with a mint sprig to offset the smell! Continue to the Palais Bahia, which is arguably the most architecturally impressive palaces in the country. It was constructed in the late 19th Century, and its name means 'brilliance', and you'll witness why: magnificent rooms open onto opulent courtyards, which edge onto a stunning 2 acre landscaped garden. It was intended to capture the essence of Islamic and Moroccan styles, merging into one; you'll likely come across similar structural themes throughout your trip. Continue to the Madrasa: once a prosperous Islamic college and now an Islamic heritage site, it boasts splendid courtyards and open air galleries. Other highlights of this tour include the epic Museum of Marrakech, where you can learn of the city's intriguing history, followed by the Saadian tombs, where you can marvel at the sepulchres of this compelling dynasty. Your tour ends in the Mellah, an enchanting neighbourhood in Marrakech inhabited by the city's Jewish population. The beauty of having your private guide is that you can specify your particular interests: whether its the masterpieces of Moroccan architecture, the hidden market gems or the more modern areas of Marrakech, your guide will happily accommodate. Visit the Jardin Majorelle Vivid gardens with pools and exotic plants, an oasis of colour, formerly owned by Yves Saint-Laurent and designed by Jacques Majorelle (a French painter). The juxtaposition of the "Majorelle blue" paint work with the yellows of the plant pots and the plants and flowers of all hues is worth a long visit. Accommodation: Riad Imilchil or similar B&B

• Marrakech to Casablanca
• Visit the Mosque Hassan II
• Casablanca to Rabat
• Rabat city centre

Private minibus transfer from Marrakech to Casablanca, past the Jbelts (or small mountains North of Marrakech) and onwards to the green fields around the coastal city. Travel time 3-3.5 hours depending on traffic Visit the Mosque Hassan II One of the largest in the world, and built partly over the sea, this mosque was commissioned by King Hassan II and was completed by August 1993. It is said that 10,000 workmen-built Mosque Hassan II over 5 years. The building can hold over 25,000 worshippers inside, with many more outside. It is decorated with cedar wood from the Middle Atlas and zellige carvings. Built by public subscription, it is quite a landmark and is one of the only two mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims. Casablanca to Rabat Private minibus transfer from Casablanca to Rabat.Travel time 1-1.5 hour depending on traffic. Rabat city centre Rabat is the capital city of Morocco, and as such has the consulate and embassy district (grand houses and parks) and the main Royal Palace. It has a long history though, with the Challah necropolis dating as far back as 8th century BC, and the Roman settlement. The town of Sale was built in the 10th century and various conquering armies added to the city afterwards. Le Tour Hassan is the unfinished remains of a great mosque started in 1199, and other sights include the Kasbah des Oudaiyas, the Mausoleum of King Mohamed V (very ornate) and the Challah (the remains of the old Roman city of Sala Colonia). Accommodation: Riad Dar Alia or similar B&B Riad Dar Alia is in the north of Rabat close to the Kasbah des Oudaiyas. It is an authentic Riad, with traditional Moroccan architecture and furnishings. Colourful mosaic zellige cover columns, steps and patios while the wood is intricately painted with bright patterns. The Riad has ten rooms and two suites all decorated in different colour schemes, with Tadelakt painted walls. These cosy rooms offer everything you need for a comfortable night’s sleep and its amenities include en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Outside of your room is a large internal patio, with comfy sofas to lounge upon as well as an outdoor terrace - an excellent sun trap in the warmer months.

• Rabat to Chefchaouen
• At leisure in Chefchaouen

Private minibus transfer from Rabat to Chefchaouen. The drive up the coast takes in the sights of the coastal towns and eucalyptus forests before heading towards the Rif mountains in the North of Morocco. The road twists through the mountains, with scenic views on either side and the journey continues to the “blue” town of Chefchaouen. Estimated travel time 4 hours depending on traffic and stops. At leisure in Chefchaouen Enjoy some free time to fully explore the blue town Chefchaouen, located in the breath-taking Rif mountains of Morocco. Browse the quirky markets, sample some local cuisine in one of the city's many restaurants, or simply wonder the streets to take in its charming atmosphere. Be wary of spontaneous street guides who will offer to show you the best local restaurants, and then ask for a commission. Pop into the old city and Medina to have a further browse of local souvenirs. A visit to the Kasbah Museum - the ethnographic museum - will give you a taste of Chefchaouen fascinating history, through a collection of local artefacts; ranging from musical instruments to pottery pieces. For a spot of people watching with a drink in hand, head to the popular and bustling square of "Plaza Uta el-Hammam," situated in the heart of Chefchaouen Medina. Be sure to admire the "Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen" with its traditional Moroccan architecture. Accommodation: Casa Perleta or similar B&B Casa Perl eta is a mid-range converted townhouse of riad in the canter of the city. As a riad, the rooms are all of different sizes and decor and open out onto a central courtyard, where dining, and relaxing can take place. The Riad has a roof top area where guests have a great view over Chefchaouen. All the rooms have Wi-Fi access, central heating, air conditioning and a private en-suite bathroom.

• Explore the Blue City of Chefchaouen

Time to explore “Chaouen” with its Berber, Jewish and Spanish history, a town closed off to Christians until the early 20th century. A light blue wash on the white house’s makes the town very photogenic. The old medina is quite small, and therefore discoverable by walking through the streets, perhaps stopping at the weaving shops (formerly silk but now wool) and the funduq at the corner of the main square Plaza Uta El Hammam. Accommodation: Casa Perleta or similar B&B

• Chefchaouen to Fes
• Volubilis Roman ruins

Descending the Rif mountains to the forests in the “dayets” (or small lake) area, the route continues to the imperial city of Fes. The road takes you through the foothills of the Rif Mountains, with Berber farms and green fields and onward to the rolling hills near Fes. Travel time is around 4 hours depending on road conditions and stops. Transfer is by private minibus. Volubilis Roman ruins Volubilis is one of Morocco's best-preserved ruins: it is an ancient Roman city, but was originally founded in the 3rd century BC by Carthaginians traders. The Romans developed it 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, wherein the city grew rapidly to cover about 42 hectares, with a 2.6 km circuit of walls. By the time Berbers took it over in about 280 ADS, there was likely a mixture of people living there. One of the many draws of the site is that it is only partially excavated; the Triumphal arch, the Capitol, Baths and Basilica still dominate the landscape. The city's financial prosperity came from olive growing and lead to the construction of many stunning townhouses, as well as mosaics scattered around the site. The site is open to wander around, but you may prefer a guide. Accommodation: Riad Al Bartal or similar B&B

• At leisure in Fes
• Fes tannery visit

Fes is the oldest of the Imperial Cities, with many different tribes and people inhabiting it over the centuries, all adding their own influences on the place. The medieval Medina is large, comprising of winding alleyways, shopping areas, cafes, old palaces and residences, Fes el Bali alone has about 9500 alleyways and fantastic souks! There is a new city outside the Medina walls, where wide streets and European architecture predominate; here you can explore the many shopping opportunities. Our local experts recommend you explore the Medersas Bou Inania, the el-Attarine and the many museums to get a feel for the city's heritage. Fes tannery visit A great photo opportunity, where skins are carried to the dyeing vats by donkey, and the whole process is still like a visit back to medieval times. The vats are made out of mud brick and contain some pretty noxious ingredients as well as hues of many colours. Perhaps take a sprig of mint along to sniff! Accommodation: Riad Al Bartal or similar Riad Al Bartal was built in the early twentieth century by a family of weavers. Originally the riad occupied a much larger area because there was a large garden that the owners sold. Located in the Ziat district, a former residential area of Fez, Riad Al Bartal was one of the most beautiful palaces in the Medina. Since then, it has been converted into a guesthouse for those travelling to enjoy. Upon entering you will be mesmerised by the striking blue zelliges, marble floors, cedar wood and intricately decorated ceilings. This boutique hotel has a range of different rooms, all decorated with unique furnishings and artwork that are in keeping with Moroccan décor. It has all essential amenities that you could require, en-suite bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Enjoy breakfast or dinner at the guesthouse, with fresh Moroccan cuisine being prepared daily – this can be eaten in the serene courtyard, or foliage filled terrace.

• Fes to Midelt
• Chance to see the barbary apes near Ifrane

Travel from Fes up into the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas, with maybe a chance to see the barbary apes that live in the forest. Continue onwards to the plains between the two mountain ranges and night in Midelt. Chance to see the barbary apes near Ifrane Today you may have a chance to see the barbary apes that live in the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas. Accommodation: Kasbah Taddart or similar B&B Kasbah Taddart is in Taddamoute just 6 km from Midelt. This no-frills hotel is a great stopover when trying to access the desert, with a lovely view of the nearby mountains. There is a combination of standard rooms and suites available. All contain an en-suite bathroom, air conditioning and a mini-bar. Its facilities include a large outdoor swimming pool, to swim in or lounge around. As well as a restaurant serving a range of both international and traditional Moroccan cuisine.

• Midelt to Merzouga
• Camel trek from Merzouga into the desert

We head to the High Atlas Mountains and have a chance to see the palmeries and the Gorge du Ziz before descending to the edge of the Sahara Desert at Merzouga. Transfer will be by private minibus. Estimated travel time 4 hours depending on stops. Camel trek from Merzouga into the desert Meet the camel team and trek the short distance through the great dunes of Erg Chebbi to the desert camp. The dunes will change hue in the sunset, and you will have the chance to climb to the summit of the dunes to see the setting or rising of the sun, a chance not to be missed. There will be dinner served in the camp, and then you can see the spectacular desert sky full of stars. Accommodation: Merzouga desert camp HB After a short walk with camels to ride or take your luggage, you will reach the desert camp, a fixed Berber camp with separate tents and full facilities. This stripped back accommodation in the desert is a great retreat to escape from your everyday responsibilities - but not too far from local villages that you feel truly stranded! Food will be served in the morning and evening on the camp dining table. A campfire will be lit, so you can cosy up next to the crackling flames and potentially enjoy some Berber drumming and music. The night may be cold, so blankets will be provided on your bed, and you can request a sleeping bag in advance.

• Camel trek from the desert camp to Merzouga
• Merzouga to Dades
• See the Todra Gorge
• Visit Dades Gorge

Perhaps get up early to see the sun rise over the dunes and then meet your camels again for the walk out of the desert. Merzouga to Dades Take the journey along the foothills of the High Atlas past the palmeries and oases to the Gorge du Todra, a chance to visit here before travelling onwards to the Gorges du Dades with the amazing rock formations. Transfer will be by private minibus. Estimated travel time 5.5-6 hours depending on stops. See the Todra Gorge The Todra valley narrows after the verdant palmeries and fields, and following the river, you can see the 300m cliffs which tower above the track. The Todra Gorge is ideal for climbers and a good place to walk. The strong sunlight highlights the colours of the rocks. Visit Dades Gorge The weird rock formations between fig and almond trees make this a photogenic place to visit. The gorges lie further up the valley, where the road crosses the Oued (river valley) and the cliffs can be seen, weathered by countless rains. Accommodation: Kasbah TIZZAROUINE B&B Situated on a plateau overlooking the Oued Dades, the Kasbah TIZZAROUINE is well equipped to ensure ideal comfort. Traditional architecture means that the hotel fits into the environment. The hotel has a swimming pool, some rooms have terraces and there are also cave rooms available. Great views over the valley of Dades.

• Explore the Valley of the Roses and Kasbah Amerdhil
• Dades to Ouarzazate
• Atlas studios tour

Visit the Valley of the Roses and the ancient Kasbah Amerdhil. There is subsistence farming here on small plots of land, primarily growing wheat, alfalfa for livestock and fruit trees. Birch trees are also planted for use as timber. These plots are all surrounded by rows of wild Damask rose trees from the Rosa damascene botanical species, which offers excellent protection against ruminants that may damage them. Multiple irrigation channels supply these plots of land. Once dried, the roses are used to make scented potpourri. Immediate distillation produces authentic rose hydrolat, also called 'floral water' or 'rose water', which is used locally for ablutions or for flavouring in pastries. Damask rose is also extracted for the premium perfume industry and for essential oils. Kasbah Amerdhil is an ancient kasbah in the middle of the palmeries. It is a fortified mud brick building that has been used for storage and defence amongst other things. Dades to Ouarzazate Private minibus transfer from Dades to Ouarzazate along the foothills of the High Atlas and past the palmeries of Skoura. Travel time 3-4 hours depending on stops. Atlas studios tour Visit one of the most extensive film studios in the world, Atlas Studios. Many films and TV programmes have been shot here, including The Living Daylights, Lawrence of Arabia, The Man Who Would Be King and Game of Thrones. excursion will be by private minibus. departure 7 in the morning and drive back to marrakech in mid-afternoon. Accommodation: Hotel Oscar or similar B&B Nestled in the heart of the famous Atlas Film Studios, at the gateway to Ouarzazate, this charming hotel welcomes you in a warm atmosphere. Spacious, comfortable and with shaded terraces that invite relaxation, the rooms combine creativity, decorative curiosities and comfort. They are equipped with air conditioning, shower, satellite TV, and the windows open onto a balcony with views of the garden. On request: Non-smoking rooms and baby cots are available.

• Ouarzazate to Taroudant
• Taroudant visit
• Taroudant to Essaouira

Drive past the Siroua mountains and visit the berber town of Taroudant. Transfer will be by private minibus. Estimated travel time 4-5 hours depending on stops. Taroudant visit Almost the entire city is contained within the ancient walls, which are similar in appearance to Marrakech. For this reason, Taroudant is sometimes called the "Grandmother of Marrakech". The French military never settled into this town (unlike most places in Morocco), so there isn't a new town, just the original area of souks and residences. The ramparts are worth visiting and also the souks with their speciality of silver berber jewellery. Taroudant to Essaouira Head towards the coast and the banana plantations that surround the city of Agadir, before turning along the coastline to the beautiful coastal town of Essaouira. Transfer will be by private minibus. Estimated travel time 4-4.5 hours depending on traffic and stops. Accommodation: Riad Rebali or similar One of the top rated riads, this is an establishment located a bit outside the main town of Essaouira in the tranquil argan and oak forest that is found along the coast. The riads are all set with their own pools, pet tortoises’ range around the grass and there is a spa facility.

• At leisure in the coastal town of Essaouira

Self-arranged. Essaouira is arguably one of Morocco's most enchanting towns, with origins in Berber, Portuguese and French architecture. It was inhabited by the Romans and possibly the Phoenicians as far back as 7th century BC; the Romans used to harvest molluscs here for the Imperial purple dye. This old fortified has been a trading port of various importance throughout its history and still has a thriving fishing harbour: take a wander down to the sea, and you'll be stunned by the dazzling mass of fishing boats, all painted a vibrant blue. The serenity of Essaouira makes it perfect for leisure time: recline on the golden sands, drift between the craft shops on the blue cobbled streets, or simply relax in a hammam. Its name translates as the 'wind city of Africa', so if you fancy something more active, it is great for windsurfing and other water sports. It has a nice climate throughout the year, with other activities including discovering the wooden boat building in the harbour, trying a traditional Moroccan cookery course, and admiring the copious displays of Thuiya wood and argan. The seafood here is to die for, so we highly recommend giving that a try too! Accommodation: Riad Rebali or similar B&B

• Transfer from Essaouira to Marrakech via Argan oil cooperative
• Airport transfer from Marrakech to the airport

Hop on a private minibus transfer from Essaouira to Marrakech. See the foothills of the High Atlas and enjoy the scenery change from the green scrub near the coast to the dry desert plains around Marrakech. Estimated travel time - 3 hours. Airport transfer from Marrakech to the airport Time for your onward flight - you will be transferred from Marrakech city to Marrakech airport. Transport will be by private minibus. Estimated travel time - 15 minutes, traffic depending.