Spain, Portugal & Morocco

25 Days Starting in Madrid and ending in Marrakech

Visiting: Madrid, Salamanca, Coimbra, Lisbon, The Algarve / Faro, Seville , Chefchaouen, Fes, Marrakech, Aroumd, Ait Benhaddou, Sahara Desert, Tissint/Tata, Tleta Tagmoute/Tafraoute, Tafraoute, Essaouira

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

ZMSQC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 16

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $4505 $3829 Operator discount: -$676 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Colour and charisma in some of Europe’s hotspots – all packed into one unforgettable adventure. Spend 25 days covering Spain, Portugal and Morocco, revealling in chaotic markets, relaxing in coastal retreats and sharing conversation and cuisine with the locals. Marvel at artistic masterpieces and architectural wonders in Madrid, taste the rich history of Portugal in its delightful towns, historic performance art and complex cuisine, and be enchanted by the magic and majesty of Morocco’s metropolises and far-flung mountains. With a knowledgeable leader to recommend the best places and take you behind the tourist trail, dig a little deeper in these three countries to discover a local way of life.

Highlights

  • Experience a memorable Fado performance in Coimbra – an emotional form of Portuguese music expressing the hard realities of the daily life and balancing both resignation and hopefulness.

  • Soak up the sun on the Portuguese coast's gorgeous beaches along the Algarve, walking across rocky cliff tops, exploring remote coves and taking in a sunset over the Atlantic Ocean with your small group.

  • Relive a glorious medieval past in in the labyrinthine streets of Fes city, and discover the cultural capital, Marrakech, through its people – drummers, dancers, fortune tellers, jugglers and medicine men.

  • Scale the High Atlas Mountains and trek through scenic Amazigh villages, spending a night in a traditional Amazigh homestay to get a true sense of rural Moroccan life.

  • Travel through the Sahara in a camel convoy, sleeping under a blanket the North African stars and enjoy an evening beside the campfire listening to traditional Bedouin tales.

  • Experience a memorable Fado performance in Coimbra - an emotional form of Portuguese music expressing the hard realities of the daily life and balancing both resignation and hopefulness.

  • Relive a glorious medieval past in in the labyrinthine streets of Fes city, and discover the cultural capital, Marrakech, through its people - drummers, dancers, fortune tellers, jugglers and medicine men.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Madrid

Location: Madrid

Accommodation: Hotel

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Spain. Your adventure begins in Madrid, the central capital known for its boulevards and expansive, manicured parks. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your group and local leader. After the meeting, head out for an optional group dinner where you can get to know your fellow travellers. As there's limited time for sightseeing in Madrid, consider flying in a few days early to explore and maybe while away the hours along the Paseo del Arte (Art Walk) or maybe discover more about the modern Spanish masters like Picasso and Dali, in the Museo Reina Sofia.

Optional Activities:
-Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza
-Madrid - Museo del Prado
-Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico
-Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia
-Madrid - Royal Palace
-Madrid - Tapas Urban Adventure

Day 2: Salamanca

Location: Salamanca

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Say farewell to Madrid this morning and head north-west by public transport to the university town of Salamanca. Sitting among pastures and rolling green hills on Spain's northern plateau, the medieval town of Salamanca is great to explore on foot. Your leader will take you on an orientation walk when you arrive, where you can explore the central Plaza Mayor and the Renaissance and Baroque architecture. The rest of your afternoon and evening is free. You can explore the detail of the Casa de Las Conchas (House of the Shells), see the contrasting Old and New Cathedrals, or climb to the top to get a view across the terracotta-coloured rooftops. Thanks to the large student population the town has a vibrant nightlife, so maybe soak up the vibe tonight, go dancing or grab a couple of drinks.

Optional Activities:
-Salamanca - Art Nouveau & Art Deco Museum
-Salamanca - Unamuno House Museum
-Salamanca - New Cathedral
-Salamanca - Old Cathedral
-Salamanca - University of Salamanca
-Salamanca - Casa de Las Conchas - Free

Day 3: Coimbra

Location: Coimbra

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Head further west on your private bus today and cross the border into Portugal to the laidback city of Coimbra – your base for the next two nights. Sitting on the banks of the River Mondego, Coimbra was once the capital of the county, and its royal heritage can be felt in its ancient streets. When you arrive, your leader will take you on an orientation walk through the maze of alleyways. Half the fun of Coimbra is wandering and exploring, so maybe use your free time getting to know the city on foot. Coimbra features many white stone buildings with excellent examples of the colourful azulejos tiling. Some of the historical structures were originally built in the 12th century (like the Cathedral Se Velha), and you can find some of Portugal's best examples of Romanesque churches and elegant museums here. The University of Coimbra – the oldest in Portugal – and the famous baroque library, the Biblioteca Joanina are great places to start.

Day 4: Coimbra

Location: Coimbra

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today is a free day to explore Coimbra. Maybe head into the countryside in search of ancient Roman ruins – the ruins of Conimbriga are rich in well-preserved mosaics and offer a great insight into Roman life. There are several options to return, including a 3-km walk through the countryside to the rural town of Condeixa or a half-hour bus ride. If you have time, you can take a short boat tour to see Coimbra from a different angle. Tonight, you’ll head to a traditional Fado performance. Fado songs must follow a particular structure, and though this traditional music can really be about anything, it popularly features mournful tunes with lyrics about the sea or the life of the poor. In Coimbra, university students would often serenade their sweethearts with this music!

Included Activities:
-Coimbra - Evening Fado Performance

Optional Activities:
-Coimbra - Mondego River Boat Trip
-Coimbra - Cathedrals
-Coimbra - Conimbriga Ruins
-Coimbra - Portugal Dos Pequenitos
-Coimbra - Joanine University Library

Day 5: Lisbon

Location: Lisbon

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today, take a train through the countryside of central Portugal to Lisbon. As one of Europe's most affordable capital cities, Lisbon combines the best elements of Portuguese life, offering a multicultural population, delicious seafood and non-stop nightlife. When you arrive, head out on an orientation walk on the banks of the Tagus (Tejo) River. Much of Lisbon’s character and lies in its beautifully renovated buildings, grand boulevards and impressive castles and churches. Visit the medieval citadel in the city centre, the Citadel of Sao Jorge Castle, which dates back to Moorish times and sits on the highest point of the Old Town. Your evening is free to explore at your own pace, so maybe head to the grand Naval Museum for an insight into the history of Portuguese navigation. If you want to jump into the local nightlife, head to Barrio Alto.

Included Activities:
-Lisbon - Sao Jorge Castle

Day 6: Lisbon

Location: Lisbon

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today is free for you to explore more of Lisbon, or you can take a 45-minute train ride out to the mountainous region of Sintra – a jewel of Portugal where you’ll see the Pena Palace. This area offers great walking opportunities, cliff-top palaces and unique Moorish architecture. The 8th-century Castle of the Moors looks down on the Old Town, and the views from the battlements across the Serra de Sintra Mountain Range are worth the trip.

Optional Activities:
-Sintra - Palacio Nacional
-Sintra - Palacio da Pena
-Sintra - Day Trip
-Sintra - Castelo dos Mouros
-Lisbon - Experience Lisbon Walk Urban Adventure
-Lisbon - Naval Museum
-Lisbon - Oceanarium
-Lisbon - Fado Show with Dinner
-Lisbon - Gulbenkian Museum
-Lisbon - Folk Art Museum
-Lisbon - National Art Museum
-Lisbon - Puppet Museum

Day 7: The Algarve / Faro

Location: The Algarve / Faro

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Take a bus journey to the southern coastline of Portugal – the Algarve, known for fertile plains rich with orange and olive groves, fig trees, almonds and maize fields. Your base will be in Faro – the capital of the region known for its Old Town, which you enter through the neoclassical Arco da Vila. When you arrive, check into your home for the next two nights and use the rest of the day to explore. Maybe wander the cobbled streets, see the 13th-century Faro Cathedral of head to the Municipal Museum set in a 16th-century convent, which displays prehistoric and medieval artifacts as well as religious art.

Day 8: The Algarve / Faro

Location: The Algarve / Faro

Accommodation: Hotel

Faro is separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a series of barrier islands, creating a beautiful landscape of canals, salt pans, lagoons and sandbanks. Today, you’ll board a local passenger boat and head out to one of these islands where you can wander along a series of boardwalks leading away from the fishermen’s settlements. You'll cross over dunes and lagoons to beaches that are so long that they disappear into the horizon. Return to Faro in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure. Maybe use the area's great walking paths to access some of the Algarve's lesser known spots or find a good spot to watch the sunset.

Included Activities:
-Algarve - Island Day Trip by Boat

Optional Activities:
-Algarve - Birdwatching Tour
-Algarve - Marine Wildlife Watching Tour
-Algarve - Boat Trip Rio Formosa
-Algarve - Fishing Trip

Day 9: Seville

Location: Seville

Accommodation: Hotel

Leave Portugal behind and return to Spain, travelling by private vehicle to the city of Seville. If the legends are to be believed, Seville was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. To the Romans it was Hispalis, and to the Moors it was Isbiliya. After the Christian reconquest, it became thought of as the portal to the 'New World' and today is the largest city in southern Spain, well-known for its oranges, tapas and flamenco. When you arrive, head out for a short orientation walk around the main sites, then enjoy some free time in the late afternoon and evening to explore at your own pace.

Optional Activities:
-Seville - Real Alcazar

Day 10: Chefchaouen

Location: Chefchaouen

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, rise early to start your long journey to Chefchaouen. You'll head toward Tarifa and then leave Europe behind as you make your way to Africa. After leaving the ferry, you'll be picked up by the Moroccan crew and make your way to a mountain town peppered with blue-washed buildings and ambient restaurants – Chefchaouen, the centre of an agricultural region. There may not be much time to explore this rural retreat by the time you arrive today, but you might just have time to look over the 15th-century Grand Mosque and the medina. Tonight, maybe tuck into some popular local goats’ cheese or a tajine before settling into your hotel.

Day 11: Chefchaouen

Location: Chefchaouen

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Meet your local guide early in the day to explore the maze of streets in Chefchaouen. The ‘blue city’ is arguably one of the prettiest places in Morocco. Set against a wide valley and nestled between two peaks in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen’s medina has been lovingly cared for with striking blue and whitewashed houses, red-tiled roofs and artistic doorways. The medina is filled with handicrafts, while the main square has shops selling woven goods and sweets. Learn about general life in a small Moroccan community, visit a communal bakery and walk up to a former mosque for a great view over the town. As a popular shopping destination for handicrafts, carpets, blankets or woollen garments, you may also see the artisans at work. After your walking tour, maybe head to a traditional Moroccan hammam to relax.

Included Activities:
-Chefchaouen - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:
-Chefchaouen - Hammam (public baths)
-Chefchaouen - Henna Tattoo

Day 12: Fes

Location: Fes

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Say farewell to Chefchaouen today and jump on a private minivan trip to the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. Arrive in the city of Fes and step back in time to the medieval medina, thick with tantalising smells, tastes and sounds. Vibrant, noisy and fascinating, the medina is a feast for the senses. With your free afternoon, maybe have a glass of mint tea and some sweet Moroccan dates to refuel, then continue exploring. Tonight, you might like to try some local specialities like camel burger, harira (chickpea soup) or chicken-stuffed pastilla with couscous. Watch the sunset over the medina, then head back to your accommodation for a night’s rest.

Day 13: Fes

Location: Fes

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Take a guided walking tour of the Old City, known locally as Fes el Bali, and step back in time to the labyrinth of the medina. Alive with craftsmen, markets, tanneries and mosques, you’ll pass donkeys piled high with goods (this is one of the largest car-free urban zones in the world) and explore the specialty sections that divide the souks. Medieval Fes was one of the world's great centres of education and culture, both Islamic and Jewish. Its religious institutions and its libraries are legendary. Its mosques are of great renown. Look out for the Medersa Bou Inania, one of the city's most beautiful buildings, which has recently been restored and is now open to tourists. Pass the Belghazi Museum, Medresse el Attarine and the splendid Funduk Nejjarine – a beautifully restored 18th century inn. You'll also see the famous tannery, known for the iconic view overlooking its dye pits, and a ceramics factory where you can see potters working in the traditional way. After the tour, the afternoon is free for you to enjoy as you please.

Included Activities:
-Fes - Medina walking tour

Day 14: Marrakech

Location: Marrakech

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Travel by train this morning to Marrakech. When you arrive, head out with the group for a quick visit to the main square – Djemaa el-Fna. The square is filled with a hive of activity. Henna painters, performers and storytellers share the square with a street food bazaar packed with stalls loaded with Moroccan delicacies. From a distance, you'll see the Koutoubia Mosque and its minaret – famous throughout the world as one of the greatest minarets and the 'sister' to the Giralda in Seville. You can have dinner here or ask your local leader for a great local restaurant recommendation and celebrate a trip well-travelled with your group.

Optional Activities:
-Marrakech - Saadian Tombs
-Marrakech - Palais Badi
-Marrakech - Palais Bahia
-Marrakech - Hamam (public baths)

Day 15: Marrakech

Location: Marrakech

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a free day in the bustling Marrakech until your 6pm group meeting.

Optional Activities:
-Marrakech - A Taste Of Marrakech: Inside the Medina Urban Adventure
-Marrakech - Tajine Cookery Class Urban Adventure.
-Marrakech - Cascades d'Ouzoud Day Tour
-Marrakech - Luxury Spa Hammam & Massage
-Marrakech - Heart of the Atlas Mountains cycling day trip with lunch
-Marrakech - Medina, Palaces & Tombs Urban Adventure
-Marrakech - Palmery Cycling Tour
-Marrakech - Magical Marrakech City Cycling Tour

Day 16: Aroumd

Location: Aroumd

Accommodation: Gite homestay (Multishare)

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

This morning, take a short drive into the High Atlas Mountains to the village of Imlil. When you arrive, store your main luggage and load your overnight bags onto pack mules. Make the 1-hour trek to the peaceful village of Aroumd. Perched on a rocky outcrop, the remote village offers stunning views across the High Atlas Mountains and a unique opportunity to experience traditional Amazigh culture. Spend the night in a family-run mountain gite where, surrounded by the smell of woodstoves and bread, you’ll enjoy traditional hospitality and homecooked food. Use the rest of the day to explore the village and the surrounding farmlands. If the group is up for it and weather permits, there will be a chance to hike to the pilgrimage shrine of Sidi Chamharouch (approximately 4 hours return). Regardless of your fitness levels, the gentle pace of Aroumd makes it a special place to explore beyond the reach of the modern world.

Included Activities:
-Aroumd - High Atlas Mountains guided hike

Day 17: Ait Benhaddou

Location: Ait Benhaddou

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, journey along mountain roads and over Morocco's highest pass, Tizi n'Tichka (2260 m above sea level), to Ait Benhaddou on the edges of the Sahara. Perched on a hilltop and almost unchanged since the 11th century, Ait Benhaddou is one of Morocco's most iconic sites and a World Heritage site. It was once an important stop for caravans passing through as they carried salt across the Sahara, returning with gold, ivory and slaves. Does it look familiar? The town has a long list of film and TV credits, including Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones and Gladiator! Enjoy a leader-led walk through the winding streets of the Old Town, making your way to the top of the hill, from where you can enjoy the views across the surrounding plains. Your evening is free, with the option of partaking in a local cooking demonstration and meal of Morocco's most famous dishes –couscous and tagine.

Included Activities:
-Ait Benhaddou - Leader-led ksar walk

Optional Activities:
-Ait Benhaddou - Cooking Demonstration & Dinner
-Ait Benhaddou - Henna Tattoo

Day 18: Sahara Desert

Location: Sahara Desert

Accommodation: Desert camp (Multishare)

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Today, you’ll have a full day of driving as you journey south towards the Sahara Desert. After breakfast, drive through the Draa Valley to Zagora, where you’ll see the original route of the caravans. Then, travel along the rugged and desolate Jbel Tadrart ranges through seas of sand and past the occasional desert oasis of date palms to the township of Tamegroute. Here, you’ll visit a library filled with ancient scripts of science, literature and stories of the prophet Mohammed. After, join a local guide to uncover the underground Kasbah. Carry on driving to the frontier town of M'Hamid. From here, your group will jump into 4WDs to the massive Erg Chigaga dunes. This is the largest dune in the Moroccan Sahara and one of the less visited – meaning your experience will be further from surrounding towns and villages, away from the tourist trail. Arrive in the late afternoon, where you’ll get ready for the experience of a lifetime – riding on the backs on camels into the Saharan sunset. Tonight, the starry sky won’t disappoint.

Included Activities:
-Tamegroute - Ancient Library
-Tamegroute - Underground kasbah guided tour
-Sahara Desert - Sunset Camel Ride

Day 19: Tissint/Tata

Location: Tissint/Tata

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

If you’re an early bird, you might want to head to the nearest dune this morning and watch the sunrise – this spectacle in the Sahara Desert is well worth the alarm! After breakfast, you’ll hop back into the 4WDs and drive out of the desert, switching to your private vehicle on the way to Tata. On the way, stop at the waterfall of Attiq in Tissint for a refreshing change of scenery. These waterfalls are all saltwater and the translation of ‘Tissint’ in the local language is ‘salt’! When you arrive in Tata mid afternoon, you’ll have a free evening to relax. If you like, explore downtown with your leader tonight and head out for a great local dinner.

Included Activities:
-Tata - Leader-led orientation walk
-Tissint – Waterfall of Attiq

Day 20: Tleta Tagmoute/Tafraoute

Location: Tleta Tagmoute/Tafraoute

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, drive to Tleta Tagmoute – a small village where you’ll get to see the oasis granaries, date palm plantations and fruit trees. The lifestyle and irrigation system here is quite unique to the region and you’ll get a deeper understanding of what life was like here with a visit to the old collective granary that’s still in use. After exploring, continue to Tafraoute, arriving in the afternoon. This southern Moroccan village sits in the shadows of the Anti Atlas Mountain Range. Although it’s now more of a campervan destination, Tafraoute remains authentic and a great base for exploring the Anti Atlas region. When you arrive, you’ll head out for a village walk and visit the local souqs to check out how the traditional babouche is made. Then, head to one of the most controversial sights here – the Pierres Bleues (painted rocks). The Belgian artist Jean Verame spray painted these boulders in 1984 and visitors still debate whether these rocks are an artwork or not (so you can decide for yourself!).

Included Activities:
-Tleta Tagmoute – Amazigh village and collective granary visit
-Tafraoute – village walk and souk visit
-Tafraoute - Pierres Bleues Boulders (Painted Rocks)

Day 21: Tafraoute

Location: Tafraoute

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Go for a hike in the Ameln Valley this morning, passing through small Amazigh villages where you’ll stop to try the local Amlou (almond, Argan and honey spread) with tea. The hike will take you through palm trees, almond trees and fields of alfalfa crops used by locals to feed their animals. The area is quite rocky in general, so sturdy shoes are needed. Stop for a picnic lunch set against the beautiful view of the valley. Return to Tafraoute for a free afternoon and evening.


Included Activities:
-Tafraoute - Ameln Valley hike with tea and picnic

Day 22: Essaouira

Location: Essaouira

Accommodation: Riad

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today will be a bit of a long travel day as you head towards the Atlantic. Passing desert scenery, your route is actually a reserve for the Indigenous argan trees. You’ll stop at a local woman’s cooperative along the way, which specialises in Argan oil production. This coop provides women and their families in the rural area with extra income for their community, promoting independence. You’ll learn about how the Argan is extracted from the trees, how it’s produced, then you’ll get to try the freshly made Amlou paste. Carry on to Essaouira (translating to ‘pretty picture’). Within the stone ramparts, you'll find whitewashed houses with bright blue shutters, art galleries and wood workshops – the perfect spot for photos. This evening is free for you to explore or relax.

Included Activities:
-Taghazoute – Argan oil women's co-op visit

Day 23: Essaouira

Location: Essaouira

Accommodation: Riad

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today after breakfast, join a local guide for a walking tour through the old medina, Jewish mellah, port and skala (sea wall). Essaouira is one of the oldest port cities in the country, and fishing here is still quite traditional. You’ll have the chance to meet one of the expert fishermen in the port, who will tell the group all about their story and show you some of the tricks they use, what type of fish to catch and what seasons mean to them. After, enjoy free time for the rest of the day. Jimi Hendrix spent a lot of time here during the 60s, so you know this is a great spot to sit, people watch and listen to the sound of the ocean. Maybe grab a freshly cooked plate of the day's catch at the port or browse the plentiful shops and intriguing art galleries. This is also a hotspot for surfing, so consider taking a lesson if that’s your thing. If you’d prefer to relax, don't miss the opportunity to indulge in a hammam (Moroccan day spa) or local-style bath.

Included Activities:
-Essaouira - Guided walking tour
-Essaouira – Local fisherman visit

Optional Activities:
-Essaouira - Hamam (public baths)
-Essaouira - Amazigh Massage
-Essaouira - Horse Riding
-Essaouira - Seafood Market Lunch

Day 24: Marrakech

Location: Marrakech

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a free morning in Essaouira, then catch a bus back to Marrakech in the afternoon. Enjoy free time when you arrive, to explore or partake in optional activities. Walk around the famed Djemaa el-Fna – from fire dancers to performers and street food carts, this is somewhere you actually want to get lost. Maybe check out the Palais Bahia, a superb example of Muslim architecture, or the ruins of the Palais Badi. Join your group tonight for an optional farewell dinner.

Optional Activities:
-Marrakech - A Taste Of Marrakech: Inside the Medina Urban Adventure
-Marrakech - Tajine Cookery Class Urban Adventure.
-Marrakech - Luxury Spa Hammam & Massage

Day 25: Marrakech

Location: Marrakech

Meals Included: breaksfast

Your adventure ends after breakfast. Additional accommodation can be pre-booked if you wish to spend more time exploring Marrakech (subject to availability). Just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Camp site (1 night), Gite (1 night), Hotel (19 nights), Riad (3 nights)

  • Coimbra - Evening Fado Performance

  • Lisbon - Citadel

  • Algarve - Culatra Island Day Trip by Boat

  • Chefchaouen - Walking Tour with Local Guide

  • Fes - Medina walking tour

  • Aroumd - High Atlas Mountains guided hike

  • Ait Benhaddou - Leader-led ksar walk

  • Tamegroute - Ancient Library

  • Tamegroute - Underground kasbah guided tour

  • Tamegroute - Medfouna lunch (Amazigh pizza)

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Included Activities

  • Coimbra - Evening Fado Performance
  • Lisbon - Citadel
  • Algarve - Culatra Island Day Trip by Boat
  • Chefchaouen - Walking Tour with Local Guide
  • Fes - Medina Walking Tour with Local Guide
  • Aroumd - Guided Hike in the High Atlas Mountains
  • Tamegroute - Ancient Library
  • Sahara Desert - Camel Ride
  • Essaouira - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Transport

  • TRANSPORT IN EUROPE
  • Half the fun of travel is the travelling itself, that's why we like to travel the local way – whether that means mingling with commuters on a local train, watching the scenery roll by from the window of a long distance bus, arriving on a high speed train in the city centre of your next destination, or navigating each city's public transport system. In Europe, you are guaranteed to travel by genuine local public transport wherever possible, which puts you right in the centre of the action.
  • There are some long travel days and some rough travelling in areas away from the main tourist routes. High passes, windy roads, and rough surfaces make for some challenging travel experiences. On some long travel days, we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimise our time at our next destination. If you experience travel sickness we recommend you consider medication to help ease the discomfort. The best part about all of these long drives is the spectacular views and fun stops en route such as mountain passes, kasbahs, palmeries, sand dunes, goats up trees, etc.
  • We also use public transport on some of our trips around Morocco. Be it a train or a public bus, remember that the best part of it is the possibility to interact with local people traveling along with you.

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
  • EUROPEAN HOTELS
  • Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together/apart. Rooms can be rather small, especially by American or Australian standards.
  • Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 16 and 19 where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for transport tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.

Mode of Transport

  • TRANSPORT IN EUROPE
  • Half the fun of travel is the travelling itself, that's why we like to travel the local way – whether that means mingling with commuters on a local train, watching the scenery roll by from the window of a long distance bus, arriving on a high speed train in the city centre of your next destination, or navigating each city's public transport system. In Europe, you are guaranteed to travel by genuine local public transport wherever possible, which puts you right in the centre of the action.
  • There are some long travel days and some rough travelling in areas away from the main tourist routes. High passes, windy roads, and rough surfaces make for some challenging travel experiences. On some long travel days, we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimise our time at our next destination. If you experience travel sickness we recommend you consider medication to help ease the discomfort. The best part about all of these long drives is the spectacular views and fun stops en route such as mountain passes, kasbahs, palmeries, sand dunes, goats up trees, etc.
  • We also use public transport on some of our trips around Morocco. Be it a train or a public bus, remember that the best part of it is the possibility to interact with local people traveling along with you.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    The European part of this trip will be led by a European leader, while the Moroccan part will be led by a Moroccan leader. The changeover will take place upon arrival at the port of Tangier in Morocco with your European leader returning to Spain after you meet your Moroccan leader.

    This trip covers a lot of ground and the majority of travel is done by trains, ferries and public buses. It's a good time to sit back, relax and let the scenery roll past your window. Please read the Itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.

    We recommend packing light and smart for this trip as you'll be required to carry your own luggage between train stations and hotels, which can include going up and down multiple flights of stairs, and across cobblestones. Train stations often don’t have lifts available.

    Summer temperatures can be extreme in this region (over 40C/104F). It's important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water. Many hotels in Europe and Morocco have fans, not air conditioning. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.

    Space is at a premium in Europe and Morocco and your hotel is no exception. Rooms are often small, but usually the central location makes up for that. For those travelling as a duo, hotels often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.

    We've sourced our accommodation very carefully and picked the best possible hotels in line with the Intrepid style of travel, but please note that service and accommodation in Morocco may differ from standards at home.

    Ramadan is an annual month-long festival, during which travel can be a rewarding cultural experience, however some regular services may not be available during the day, such as restaurants or cafes, and occasionally travel can be disrupted by events. Your leader will adjust the itinerary accordingly, but please consider this when selecting your travel dates. You'll find dates and further information in the 'Climate and seasonal information' section of the Essential Trip Information.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Tuesday

Nov 23, 2024 - Dec 17, 2024
$4640 $4408

Operator discount: -$232

Saturday - Tuesday

Nov 30, 2024 - Dec 24, 2024
$4505 $3829

Operator discount: -$676

Monday - Thursday

Dec 09, 2024 - Jan 02, 2025
$4640

Saturday - Tuesday

Jan 25, 2025 - Feb 18, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Feb 08, 2025 - Mar 04, 2025
$4865

Saturday - Tuesday

Feb 22, 2025 - Mar 18, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Mar 08, 2025 - Apr 01, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Mar 15, 2025 - Apr 08, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Mar 29, 2025 - Apr 22, 2025
$5155

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 29, 2025
$5355

Tuesday - Friday

Apr 08, 2025 - May 02, 2025
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 12, 2025 - May 06, 2025
$5005

Tuesday - Friday

Apr 22, 2025 - May 16, 2025
$5005 $4755

Operator discount: -$250

Saturday - Tuesday

May 03, 2025 - May 27, 2025
$5250

Tuesday - Friday

May 06, 2025 - May 30, 2025
$5200

Sunday - Wednesday

May 11, 2025 - Jun 04, 2025
$5305

Thursday - Sunday

May 15, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025
$5200

Saturday - Tuesday

May 17, 2025 - Jun 10, 2025
$5200

Tuesday - Friday

May 20, 2025 - Jun 13, 2025
$5200

Saturday - Tuesday

May 24, 2025 - Jun 17, 2025
$5200

Tuesday - Friday

May 27, 2025 - Jun 20, 2025
$5200

Saturday - Tuesday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 24, 2025
$5200

Tuesday - Friday

Jun 03, 2025 - Jun 27, 2025
$5005

Tuesday - Friday

Jun 10, 2025 - Jul 04, 2025
$5005

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 14, 2025 - Jul 08, 2025
$4865

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 21, 2025 - Jul 15, 2025
$4815

Tuesday - Friday

Jun 24, 2025 - Jul 18, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 22, 2025
$4815

Tuesday - Friday

Jul 01, 2025 - Jul 25, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 05, 2025 - Jul 29, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 12, 2025 - Aug 05, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 19, 2025 - Aug 12, 2025
$4815

Tuesday - Friday

Jul 22, 2025 - Aug 15, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 26, 2025 - Aug 19, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 26, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 09, 2025 - Sep 02, 2025
$4815

Tuesday - Friday

Aug 12, 2025 - Sep 05, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 16, 2025 - Sep 09, 2025
$4815

Tuesday - Friday

Aug 19, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 23, 2025 - Sep 16, 2025
$5005

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 23, 2025
$5005

Tuesday - Friday

Sep 02, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025
$5200

Thursday - Sunday

Sep 04, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$5200

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025
$5200

Monday - Thursday

Sep 08, 2025 - Oct 02, 2025
$5200

Tuesday - Friday

Sep 09, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025
$5200

Thursday - Sunday

Sep 11, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025
$5200

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 13, 2025 - Oct 07, 2025
$5200

Monday - Thursday

Sep 15, 2025 - Oct 09, 2025
$5200

Thursday - Sunday

Sep 18, 2025 - Oct 12, 2025
$5200

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 20, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025
$5200

Monday - Thursday

Sep 22, 2025 - Oct 16, 2025
$5200

Thursday - Sunday

Sep 25, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025
$5200

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 27, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025
$5200

Monday - Thursday

Sep 29, 2025 - Oct 23, 2025
$5200

Tuesday - Friday

Sep 30, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
$5200

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 28, 2025
$5005

Tuesday - Friday

Oct 07, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025
$5005

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 11, 2025 - Nov 04, 2025
$5005

Tuesday - Friday

Oct 14, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025
$5005

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 18, 2025 - Nov 11, 2025
$5005

Tuesday - Friday

Oct 21, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
$5005

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 25, 2025 - Nov 18, 2025
$5005

Tuesday - Friday

Oct 28, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025
$5005

Saturday - Tuesday

Nov 08, 2025 - Dec 02, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Nov 15, 2025 - Dec 09, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Nov 22, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025
$4815

Saturday - Tuesday

Dec 06, 2025 - Dec 30, 2025
$5005

Saturday - Tuesday

Dec 13, 2025 - Jan 06, 2026
$5005

Tuesday - Friday

Dec 16, 2025 - Jan 09, 2026
$5005

Saturday - Tuesday

Jan 10, 2026 - Feb 03, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Jan 24, 2026 - Feb 17, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Feb 07, 2026 - Mar 03, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Feb 21, 2026 - Mar 17, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Feb 28, 2026 - Mar 24, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Mar 07, 2026 - Mar 31, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Mar 14, 2026 - Apr 07, 2026
$5255

Saturday - Tuesday

Mar 21, 2026 - Apr 14, 2026
$5255

Saturday - Tuesday

Mar 28, 2026 - Apr 21, 2026
$5255

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 04, 2026 - Apr 28, 2026
$5255

Tuesday - Friday

Apr 07, 2026 - May 01, 2026
$5255

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 11, 2026 - May 05, 2026
$5255

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 18, 2026 - May 12, 2026
$5255

Tuesday - Friday

Apr 21, 2026 - May 15, 2026
$5255

Saturday - Tuesday

May 02, 2026 - May 26, 2026
$5460

Tuesday - Friday

May 05, 2026 - May 29, 2026
$5460

Sunday - Wednesday

May 10, 2026 - Jun 03, 2026
$5460

Thursday - Sunday

May 14, 2026 - Jun 07, 2026
$5460

Saturday - Tuesday

May 16, 2026 - Jun 09, 2026
$5460

Tuesday - Friday

May 19, 2026 - Jun 12, 2026
$5460

Thursday - Sunday

May 21, 2026 - Jun 14, 2026
$5460

Saturday - Tuesday

May 23, 2026 - Jun 16, 2026
$5460

Tuesday - Friday

May 26, 2026 - Jun 19, 2026
$5460

Saturday - Tuesday

May 30, 2026 - Jun 23, 2026
$5460

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 06, 2026 - Jun 30, 2026
$5255

Tuesday - Friday

Jun 09, 2026 - Jul 03, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 13, 2026 - Jul 07, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 20, 2026 - Jul 14, 2026
$5055

Tuesday - Friday

Jun 23, 2026 - Jul 17, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Jun 27, 2026 - Jul 21, 2026
$5055

Tuesday - Friday

Jun 30, 2026 - Jul 24, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 04, 2026 - Jul 28, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 11, 2026 - Aug 04, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 18, 2026 - Aug 11, 2026
$5055

Tuesday - Friday

Jul 21, 2026 - Aug 14, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Jul 25, 2026 - Aug 18, 2026
$5055

Tuesday - Friday

Jul 28, 2026 - Aug 21, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 01, 2026 - Aug 25, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 08, 2026 - Sep 01, 2026
$5055

Tuesday - Friday

Aug 11, 2026 - Sep 04, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 15, 2026 - Sep 08, 2026
$5055

Tuesday - Friday

Aug 18, 2026 - Sep 11, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 22, 2026 - Sep 15, 2026
$5255

Tuesday - Friday

Aug 25, 2026 - Sep 18, 2026
$5255

Saturday - Tuesday

Aug 29, 2026 - Sep 22, 2026
$5255

Tuesday - Friday

Sep 01, 2026 - Sep 25, 2026
$5460

Thursday - Sunday

Sep 03, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$5460

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 05, 2026 - Sep 29, 2026
$5460

Monday - Thursday

Sep 07, 2026 - Oct 01, 2026
$5460

Tuesday - Friday

Sep 08, 2026 - Oct 02, 2026
$5460

Thursday - Sunday

Sep 10, 2026 - Oct 04, 2026
$5460

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 12, 2026 - Oct 06, 2026
$5460

Monday - Thursday

Sep 14, 2026 - Oct 08, 2026
$5460

Thursday - Sunday

Sep 17, 2026 - Oct 11, 2026
$5460

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 19, 2026 - Oct 13, 2026
$5460

Monday - Thursday

Sep 21, 2026 - Oct 15, 2026
$5460

Thursday - Sunday

Sep 24, 2026 - Oct 18, 2026
$5460

Saturday - Tuesday

Sep 26, 2026 - Oct 20, 2026
$5460

Monday - Thursday

Sep 28, 2026 - Oct 22, 2026
$5460

Tuesday - Friday

Sep 29, 2026 - Oct 23, 2026
$5460

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 03, 2026 - Oct 27, 2026
$5255

Tuesday - Friday

Oct 06, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
$5255

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 10, 2026 - Nov 03, 2026
$5255

Tuesday - Friday

Oct 13, 2026 - Nov 06, 2026
$5255

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 17, 2026 - Nov 10, 2026
$5255

Tuesday - Friday

Oct 20, 2026 - Nov 13, 2026
$5255

Saturday - Tuesday

Oct 24, 2026 - Nov 17, 2026
$5255

Tuesday - Friday

Oct 27, 2026 - Nov 20, 2026
$5255

Saturday - Tuesday

Nov 07, 2026 - Dec 01, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Nov 14, 2026 - Dec 08, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Nov 21, 2026 - Dec 15, 2026
$5055

Saturday - Tuesday

Dec 05, 2026 - Dec 29, 2026
$5255

Saturday - Tuesday

Dec 12, 2026 - Jan 05, 2027
$5255

Tuesday - Friday

Dec 15, 2026 - Jan 08, 2027
$5255

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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