Highlights Of Morocco
Highlights Of Morocco
Highlights Of Morocco
12 Days Starting and ending in Hotel in Casablanca
Visiting: Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fes, Merzouga, Ouarzazate, Tizi n'Tichka, Aït Benhaddou, Marrakesh, Essaouira
Tour operator:
Tour code:
MOR
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 51
Age range:
10-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Discover the unmatched beauty, colourful culture, fascinating history and stunning scenery of Morocco with Expat Explore! Spend 12 days travelling to top cities, uncovering hidden gems and experiencing unforgettable adventures. Explore Rabat, Morocco’s coastal capital, enjoy free days in vibrant Marrakesh, spend a night in the dazzling blue city of Chefchaouen and be captivated by the dreamy desert of Merzouga. Taste delicious local cuisine, learn about ancient history and soak up spectacular scenery. Tick off three of Morocco’s Imperial Cities (Fes, Marrakesh and Rabat) and make memories to last a lifetime.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Casablanca - Rabat
Location: Casablanca, Rabat
Meals Included: Dinner
Are you ready for a jam-packed adventure through Morocco’s most stunning sights? Start your Moroccan journey in Casablanca where you will meet up with your tour leader and fellow travellers for an overview of the upcoming itinerary. Then, embark on a city tour of Casablanca. This famous city is probably best-known as the setting for the classic film of the same name and it certainly still boasts a bit of old-world charm! Next stop is Rabat, Morocco’s capital city. Discover some of the many cultural and historic attractions of this coastal city on a sightseeing tour. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant and get to know your fellow travellers over delicious Moroccan cuisine.
Enjoy a city tour of Casablanca
Sightsee around Rabat, Morocco's capital city
Enjoy a welcome dinner of mouthwatering Moroccan delights
Day 2: Rabat - Asilah - Chefchaouen
Location: Rabat, Chefchaouen
Meals Included: Breakfast
Look forward to more memorable sights today! First stop is the whitewashed coastal town of Asilah. Enjoy an orientation tour of its Medina (Old Town) and soak up the ocean views. Then, it‘s time to travel towards Morocco’s iconic blue city - Chefchaouen! Known as the “Blue Pearl”, this city enchants all who visit with its distinctive blue houses. This blue hue is said to represent the sky, God and heaven. Join a local guide on an insightful tour to uncover this city’s history and beauty. The evening is free to spend as you wish in this otherworldly city.
Embark on an orientation tour of awe-inspiring Asilah
Experience a guided tour of Chefchaouen
Spend a night in the magical Blue City
Day 3: Chefchaouen - Fes
Location: Chefchaouen, Fes
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, travel to Fes, Morocco’s oldest city. Aside from being one of Morocco’s Imperial Cities, Fes is also home to the world’s oldest universities and the Fes Medina, one of the largest and oldest urban pedestrian zones in the world! Embark on a guided tour of this UNESCO-listed Medina and see top sights including Seffarine Square, which has stood since the Middle Ages, and the historic Nejjarine Fountain. Visit a local tannery to learn about Moroccan craftsmanship and take time to find some souvenirs!
Discover Fes's top sights on a guided tour
Day 4: Fes: Free Day
Location: Fes
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today offers a full free day to experience Fes! With so much to see and do, you’ll never be bored in Morocco’s cultural capital. From shopping at one of the bustling souks to soaking up the sights of the Fes Medina and indulging in local cuisine, this free day promises to be one to remember. Today’s optional excursion to the Volubis Roman Ruins is also highly recommended. Explore Morocco’s best-preserved archaeological sight on a guided tour before visiting a picturesque local winery for a delectable lunch and wine pairing!
Enjoy a free day to explore Fes
Day 5: Fes - Atlas Mountains - Merzouga
Location: Fes, Merzouga
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Get ready for the ultimate Moroccan adventure! This journey to the Moroccan desert promises to be a highlight of the tour. En route to Merzouga, stop in Ifrane, a charming town known as “Little Switzerland” due to its Alpine architecture. Next, drive through the awe-inspiring Atlas Mountains via Ziz Valley which bursts with greenery as one of Morocco’s largest palm groves. Upon arrival in Erfoud, hop aboard a 4x4 and head towards tonight’s desert camp accommodation. In Merzouga, enjoy a taste of Medfouna, Berber-style “pizza”, for dinner. Then, sit around a bonfire while listening to traditional music. After an unforgettable evening under the stars, settle into your comfortable tent which is fully equipped with hot water, a toilet and electricity.Please Note: Luggage cannot be carried on the 4x4. Passengers are encouraged to pack a small bag for the evening.
Enjoy a scenic drive through the Atlas Mountains
Take a 4x4 drive to the Merzouga desert
Sleep under the desert stars in a comfortable tent
Day 6: Merzouga - Todra Gorge - Ouarzazate
Location: Ouarzazate, Merzouga
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Don’t miss out on the epic sunrise over the desert, bright and early, this morning! After breakfast, wave goodbye to Merzouga but prepare for more unforgettable sights as the tour travels to Ouarzate. Stop along the way to marvel at the Todra Gorge. Take a walk along the river and admire the dazzling limestone canyons and towering cliffs over your head. Enjoy one more comfort stop in Kalaat M’Gouna before arriving in Ouarzazate and checking into the hotel. Tonight, enjoy an included group dinner.
Marvel at the towering cliffs at Todra Gorge
Stop in Kalaat M'Gouna for rose souvenirs
Day 7: Ouarzazate - Aït Benhaddou - Tizi N'tichka - Marrakesh
Location: Tizi n'Tichka, Aït Benhaddou, Ouarzazate, Marrakesh
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Discover more of Ouarzazate, a city which can be seen in many popular films, on an orientation tour. Enjoy a tour of the impressive Tourirt Kasbah with an expert local guide. Then, travel to the breathtaking Aït Benhaddou, a must-visit fortified village known as a “Ksar”. Look forward to an orientation tour and learn more about life here before the Sahara. Hop back on the coach as the tour heads to Marrakesh and take in the spectacular scenery of the winding Tizi n'Tichka mountain pass. Arrive in Marrakesh and check into the hotel in the evening. Enjoy an included dinner and be sure to try tangia, an irresistible meat stew traditionally eaten in Marrakesh.
Explore Ouarzazate on an orientation tour
Visit the historic fortified village of Aït Benhaddou
See the dramatic Tizi n'Tichka mountain pass
Day 8: Marrakesh: Free Day
Location: Marrakesh
Meals Included: Breakfast
Along with Rabat and Fes, Marrakesh is considered an Imperial City, meaning it was once a capital and holds great significance in the country‘s history. Join a local guide this morning for a tour of top Marrakesh attractions including Jemaa el Fna Square, the Koutoubia and, of course, many colourful souks. The rest of the day is free to explore these places more in-depth or join today‘s optional excursion and immerse yourself in Moroccan culture and cuisine. Learn how to make local dishes like harira, tagine and sweet treats while hearing fascinating tales about Morocco.
Explore Marrakesh, the 'Red City' with an expert guide
Enjoy free time in Marrakesh to explore at your own pace
Day 9: Marrakesh: Free Day
Location: Marrakesh
It’s another free day in beautiful Marrakesh! The best way to experience all that this magical city has to offer is to join the Marrakesh+ optional excursion. This includes a visit to the dreamy Majorelle gardens, the Medersa Ben Youssef and a local art gallery which is a true hidden gem. Alternatively, explore the city more on your own and don’t forget to stock up on souvenirs at one of Marrakesh’s vibrant bazaars. This evening, why not join the optional dinner which features an unmissable meal, folklore show and performance at a Fantasia?
Day 10: Marrakesh - Essaouira
Location: Marrakesh, Essaouira
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bid farewell to Marrakesh this morning as the group makes its way to the final stop of the tour. On the way to Essaouira, visit an Argan Oil cooperative and learn about this product which is shipped and sought-after all over the world. Arrive in Essaouira, a peaceful coastal city, and enjoy an orientation tour of its UNESCO-listed fortified Medina. The rest of the day is free to soak up the sun and laid-back atmosphere after the non-stop buzz of Marrakesh. Choose to join the Evening in Essaouira optional excursion tonight for stunning seaside sights and a feast of fresh fish for dinner!
Explore the coastal city of Essaouira on an orientation tour
Day 11: Essaouira - Casablanca
Location: Essaouira, Casablanca
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Wave goodbye to Essaouira and travel back to Casablanca today. Arrive in the afternoon and enjoy some more time to explore some of Casablanca’s top attractions. Why not make the most of your final night on tour with an optional farewell dinner? This delicious meal includes local delicacies as well as a belly dancing performance! There is no better way to make some last memories and reminisce over the last 11 days with your newfound travel friends.
Enjoy a farewell dinner in Casablanca
Day 12: End Of Tour In Casablanca
Location: Casablanca
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy one last breakfast with the group this morning before saying farewell to this unforgettable 12-day group tour of Morocco. Don’t forget to get the contact details of your new travel buddies so that you can stay in touch and swap photos! Expat Explore wishes you a safe journey ahead and cannot wait to see you on tour again soon.
What's Included
-
Accommodation
10 nights hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms. The majority of our accommodations are of a 3- and 4-star standard, offering excellent value, comfort and convenience
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability) -
Transport
Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days) -
Meals
11 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners*Vegetarian options available for all meals on request
-
Tour Leader
Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details
What's Not Included
International flightsTravel to the start point and from the end point is not included. We recommend using Skyscanner to find the best deals on international flights.Travel insuranceFor a relatively small price, travel insurance provides you with peace of mind so that you can enjoy your tour without any worries.
All passengers travelling on an Expat Explore tour are required to have valid travel insurance cover and you are responsible for arranging your own insurance.
Mode of Transport
Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)
Accommodation
10 nights hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms. The majority of our accommodations are of a 3- and 4-star standard, offering excellent value, comfort and convenience
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)
Traveller Comfort - *COACH* tours
We welcome all travellers on our tours but we would like to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. In light of this, please ensure that you are happy with the below information and level of fitness required.
Expat Explore tries to be as accommodating as possible, however, our tours are unfortunately not designed for people travelling with wheelchairs or severe mobility issues.
Our tours are fast paced because they are designed for you to see the most a destination has to offer. We also want to ensure that you explore as much as possible, which may require long periods without stops on the coach as we drive to a new destination.
We offer walking tours in most cities (up to 3 hours), and a wheelchair is not always a practical option as there are often cobbled streets and stairs on these tours.
For travellers in wheelchairs, you will only be able to store your wheelchair under the coach with the other luggage. Thus, on the long drives between cities you will not necessarily have access to your wheelchair if we make a quick bathroom stop along the way. Please note that travelling with a wheelchair could prove difficult as our coaches don't have wheelchair lifts, as such you will need to be able to board and alight the coach on your own.
With regards to our accommodation, not all hotels have lifts and this means potentially having to carry bags up and down stairs.
For more information regarding traveller fitness please see our Terms and Conditions.
Health and Fitness
We welcome all travellers on our tours but we would like to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. In light of this, please ensure that you are happy with the below information and level of fitness required.
Expat Explore tries to be as accommodating as possible, however, our tours are unfortunately not designed for people travelling with wheelchairs or severe mobility issues.
Our tours are fast paced because they are designed for you to see the most a destination has to offer. We also want to ensure that you explore as much as possible, which may require long periods without stops on the coach as we drive to a new destination.
We offer walking tours in most cities (up to 3 hours), and a wheelchair is not always a practical option as there are often cobbled streets and stairs on these tours.
For travellers in wheelchairs, you will only be able to store your wheelchair under the coach with the other luggage. Thus, on the long drives between cities you will not necessarily have access to your wheelchair if we make a quick bathroom stop along the way. Please note that travelling with a wheelchair could prove difficult as our coaches don't have wheelchair lifts, as such you will need to be able to board and alight the coach on your own.
With regards to our accommodation, not all hotels have lifts and this means potentially having to carry bags up and down stairs.
Experiences
Enjoy a city tour of Casablanca
Sightsee around Rabat, Morocco's capital city
Enjoy a welcome dinner of mouthwatering Moroccan delights
Embark on an orientation tour of awe-inspiring Asilah
Experience a guided tour of Chefchaouen
Spend a night in the magical Blue City
Discover Fes's top sights on a guided tour
Enjoy a free day to explore Fes
Enjoy a scenic drive through the Atlas Mountains
Take a 4x4 drive to the Merzouga desert
Sleep under the desert stars in a comfortable tent
Marvel at the towering cliffs at Todra Gorge
Stop in Kalaat M'Gouna for rose souvenirs
Explore Ouarzazate on an orientation tour
Visit the historic fortified village of Aït Benhaddou
See the dramatic Tizi n'Tichka mountain pass
Explore Marrakesh, the 'Red City' with an expert guide
Enjoy free time in Marrakesh to explore at your own pace
Explore the coastal city of Essaouira on an orientation tour
Enjoy a farewell dinner in Casablanca
Check out our Q&As
-
Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Our tours are not suitable for young children, so we set a minimum age limit of 10 years old. However, at the discretion of Expat Explore we may consider younger children on certain tours if they meet certain criteria and a request is received in writing via email for consideration. Expat Explore reserves the absolute right to accept or decline a booking at our discretion.
-
Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Yes, we welcome travellers from all over the world!
-
Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
Travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability).
-
Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Are airport transfers are not included in this tour.
-
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes, your tour will be conducted in English.
-
Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees are not included.
-
Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No, visas are each traveler’s personal responsibility, and we recommend that plenty of time is allowed for visas to be applied for. When applying for your visa, please ensure that the proper research is carried out before you apply, and that you deal directly with the embassies or certified agents with regard to acquiring correct and timely information. We cannot take responsibility for customers
-
Are flights included in this tour?
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting destination for the first day of your tour. Make sure you keep departure times and possible delays in mind when booking flights.
-
Are vaccinations required for this tour?
We are committed to curating excellent travel experiences and to do so we need all of our travelers to feel safe.
In order to ensure the peace of mind and safety of our travelers and staff on board the coach, we are still requesting that all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status, produce a negative Covid test. This test can be a PCR test -
Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Certain nationalities may require a visa(s) for this tour.
-
Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
All of the hotels on this tour offer Wi-Fi, which is available free of charge as part of your Expat Explore tour.
-
Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes, Full air-conditioning
-
Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Due to weight and space limitations, you are allowed to bring one main piece of luggage weighing no more than 20kg, and one small soft bag for hand luggage weighing a maximum of 7kg. On all tours, you will have to carry your own luggage (e.g. into hotels and up to your room if hotels don’t have elevators). Please bear this in mind when you are deciding what to pack
-
Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our customer services team. Please note that the room provided may be a single room with a single bed.
-
Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
Yes, As detailed in the itinerary
-
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
All travellers are required to carry their own bags, get on and off the coach, and use public transport. Our city walking tours can last up to 3 hours and certain places involve walking up and down lots of steps. We want you to enjoy your tour, so read through the itinerary thoroughly and make your own conclusions as to whether you feel that you are fit and healthy enough.
-
What is the maximum group size?
It depends on how many other people book! There could be up to 51 other passengers, so you will have the opportunity to make lots of friends!
-
What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
We have searched and invested in excellent accommodation options, either located in cities or well placed with public transport connections. Clean linen, towels is always included. Toiletries (shampoo, shower gel etc) and hair dryers are not always included, so you may wish to bring these with you. Accommodation is provided in twin share en-suite rooms. We use a mix of mostly 2, 3 & 4-star hotels.
-
What is the tipping policy?
Whilst we fully understand that some nationalities are not accustomed to tipping, this is a normal part of the culture in many of the countries we visit. Tipping has become an increasingly accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants, bars and taxis worldwide. Expat Explore crew members
-
Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
A full list of confirmed accommodation names and addresses for your particular departure will be emailed to you around 1 week before the tour starts.
-
Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Our travelers come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests.
-
Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
Our tour leaders come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests. They are all confident and well-travelled with an in-depth knowledge of the destinations they are working in, and a passion for helping you make the most out of your Expat Explore tour.
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
If you are travelling alone there is no compulsory charge - you will share a twin room with another passenger of the same gender. There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our team.
-
Children on tour?
Our tours are not suitable for young children which is why we have a minimum age limit of 10 years old. However, at the discretion of Expat Explore we may consider younger children on certain tours if they meet certain criteria and a request is received in writing via email. Minors (between 10 and 18 years of age) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who accepts full responsibility for them. Unaccompanied minors will not be accepted on tour. Expat Explore reserves the right to decline any booking at our discretion. Any minor (between 10 and 18 years of age) is priced the same as an adult.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
The health and safety of our travellers and employees are our top priority. Which means, when you travel with us, our enhanced hygiene protocols will ensure you do so in a safe and responsible way - ask for details of current policies.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2005
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
At Expat Explore we value responsible travel and are committed to exploring the world consciously and kindly. We are proud to make responsible travel possible with a number of our sustainable travel practices!
-
Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Relate is a South African based not-for-profit organisation that Expat Explore supports. The group aims to help those less fortunate create better lives for themselves through a variety of fundraising initiatives. On our South Africa tours, each passenger will receive an Expat Explore branded Relate bracelet. We donate the cost of these bracelets to our chosen Relate charity: the Nelson Mandela Sc
Reviews from travellers on this tour
1 Select your preferred date
2025 May
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Nov
2025 Dec
2025 Jan
2026 Feb
2026 Mar
2026 Apr
2026 May
2026 Sep
2026 Oct
2026 Nov
2026 Dec
2026
Friday - Tuesday
Apr 04, 2025 - Apr 15, 2025Friday - Tuesday
May 02, 2025 - May 13, 2025Friday - Tuesday
Sep 19, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025Friday - Tuesday
Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025Friday - Tuesday
Nov 07, 2025 - Nov 18, 2025Friday - Tuesday
Nov 21, 2025 - Dec 02, 2025Friday - Tuesday
Dec 05, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025Friday - Tuesday
Jan 16, 2026 - Jan 27, 2026Monday - Friday
Feb 02, 2026 - Feb 13, 2026Friday - Tuesday
Feb 20, 2026 - Mar 03, 2026Monday - Friday
Mar 09, 2026 - Mar 20, 2026Friday - Tuesday
Mar 27, 2026 - Apr 07, 2026Monday - Friday
Apr 13, 2026 - Apr 24, 2026Friday - Tuesday
May 01, 2026 - May 12, 2026Friday - Tuesday
Sep 18, 2026 - Sep 29, 2026Monday - Friday
Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 16, 2026Friday - Tuesday
Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 03, 2026Monday - Friday
Nov 09, 2026 - Nov 20, 2026Friday - Tuesday
Nov 27, 2026 - Dec 08, 2026Monday - Friday
Dec 14, 2026 - Dec 25, 2026Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
Expat Explore Travel allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 91 days before the start of the tour.
-
Low Deposit
Expat Explore Travel requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of expat explore travel charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.
At 44 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.