Morocco is the traditional homeland of the indigenous Berber people, who call themselves Imazighen (singular: Amazigh). Over centuries, the region has also seen migration and the growth of urban communities from outside North Africa.
In its early history, Morocco fell under Carthaginian influence and later became the westernmost province of the Roman Empire. Following the Arab conquest in the late 7th century CE, the wider region of North Africa became known as the Maghrib (“the West”), and most of its population embraced Islam.
Moroccan kingdoms historically wielded influence beyond the coast. In the 11th century, the first native Amazigh dynasty, the Almoravids, established an empire stretching from southern Spain (Andalusia) to parts of sub-Saharan Africa. European powers attempted to establish a permanent presence in Morocco from the late 15th century, but these efforts were largely resisted.
By the 19th century, Morocco became involved in Great Power politics, eventually becoming a French protectorate in 1912. The country regained its independence in 1956 and today remains the only monarchy in North Africa.
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Typically in the afternoon to allow for a camel ride at sunset and dinner
Arabic, English, French, Spanish
Day 1: Arrival – Cooking Class (Marrakech)
Arrival in Marrakech. Private transfer from the airport to your riad. In the afternoon, enjoy a Moroccan cooking class to prepare traditional dishes. Evening at leisure to explore Marrakech’s lively streets.
Day 2: Hot Air Balloon & Marrakech City Tour
Early morning hot air balloon ride over Marrakech’s landscapes at sunrise (pickup at 5:00 AM). Return for breakfast. Later, guided tour of Marrakech’s Medina: Jewish Quarter, Tinmel Mosque, Bahia Palace, Menara Park, Saadian Tombs, Koutoubia Mosque, Ben Youssef Madrasa, and the Marrakech Museum. Explore Jamaa el-Fna square and stroll city ramparts. Visit Majorelle Gardens. Overnight in your riad.
Day 3: Marrakech – Tizi n’Tichka – Ait Benhaddou – Dades Valley
Depart at 08:00, crossing the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass with panoramic stops. Visit Ait Benhaddou Kasbah (UNESCO site), then pass Ouarzazate and Berber villages of Skoura and Megoun. Overnight in Dades Valley.
Day 4: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
Journey through Todra Gorge and continue to Merzouga, passing Tinjdad, Jorf, and Erfoud. Arrive at the desert camp, enjoy a camel trek at sunset, traditional dinner, music, drumming, and a night in a luxurious desert tent under the stars.
Day 5: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Ifrane – Fes
Early sunrise camel ride. Breakfast in Merzouga, then travel through Ziz Valley and Midelt. Visit a nomadic family for tea. Continue to Fes for overnight stay.
Day 6: Fes City Tour – Chefchaouen
Guided tour of Fes: Medieval Medina, University of Al Quaraouiyine, Medersa Attarine, Blue Gate, Chouara Tannery, and souks. Panoramic view of the Medina. Afternoon transfer to Chefchaouen. Overnight in a charming riad.
Day 7: Chefchaouen Sightseeing – Return to Marrakech
Explore Chefchaouen’s blue streets, local markets, Andalusian architecture, and parks. Afternoon transfer back to Marrakech.
Day 8: Departure (Marrakech Airport)
Private transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for your flight.
