Morocco : September 20 - October 1, 2026
Embark on a Moroccan odyssey that balances the vibrant energy of historic cities and serene majesty of the desert and coast!
Our journey begins in the heart of Marrakech, where you'll stroll through the medina, visit the Jemaa el-Fnaa plaza, and master traditional flavors in a cooking class, before venturing through the High Atlas Mountains and hiking the lush waterfalls of the Ourika Valley, and visiting the ancient kasbahs of the Draa Valley.
This unforgettable adventure includes an expedition into the Sahara, featuring sunset camel rides and a night of stargazing at a traditional nomad tent camp. From the "Little Marrakech" charms of Taroudant to the breezy, artistic coastal vibes of Essaouira, this curated itinerary offers the perfect blend of guided cultural immersion and soulful independent exploration, concluding with a final celebratory dinner under the stars at Riad Baya.
“From far off, through circuitous corridors,
came the scent of citrus-blossom and jasmine,
with sometimes a bird’s song before dawn, sometimes a flute’s wail at sunset,
and always the call of the muezzin in the night.”
Day 1 | Sunday, sept 20: Arrivée À Marrakech
Your Moroccan odyssey begins the moment you touch down in Marrakech. You’ll be greeted by Christina and our local expert before being whisked away to the serene Riad Baya, a sanctuary of tiled courtyards and calm. After a moment to freshen up, we’ll dive into the heartbeat of the city with a guided stroll through historic landmarks and the winding, kaleidoscopic paths of the Medina. As the sun begins to dip, we’ll gather for un apéritif on the rooftop terrace, followed by a festive group dinner under the evening sky.
Day 2 | Monday, sept 21: À la découverte
Wake up to the sound of distant bells and enjoy a morning at your own rhythm. Whether you seek the cobalt blues of the Marjorelle gardens or the intricate carvings of ancient palaces, the city is yours to discover. In the late afternoon, we transition from observers to creators. We’ll join a private cooking class to unlock the aromatic secrets of Moroccan spices, eventually sitting down to feast upon our own chefs-d’oeuvre.
Day 3 | tuesday, sept 22: ourika valley
Trade the city’s vibrant hum for the cool, crisp air of the High Atlas Mountains. Today we journey into the lush Ourika Valley, where we’ll embark on a guided trek toward a thundering waterfall. After a riverside lunch in the mountain breeze, we return to Marrakech for an unforgettable evening at Dar Essalam, a restaurant steeped in history and grandeur.
Day 4 | wednesday, sept 23: draa valley
We set out on the historic "Route of Caravans," a path once trodden by spice traders heading for the Sahara. Our journey takes us through Telouet to explore its crumbling yet regal Kasbah, followed by the cinematic majesty of Aït Ben Haddou—a UNESCO-protected earthen citadel. After lunch in Ouarzazate, we follow the Draa Valley, where emerald oases provide a stunning contrast to the desert’s golden gates.
Day 5 | thursday, sept 24: le sahara
The horizon expands as we head toward Erg Chigaga, the most remote and majestic dune sea in the desert. We’ll pause at the ancient library of Tamagroute and the gateway town of M’Hamid before swapping our van for 4x4s to reach our luxury desert camp. As the sun sets, we’ll mount camels to watch the dunes turn to gold. The night concludes with a traditional feast, Berber music around the campfire, and more stars than you have ever seen before.
Day 6 | friday, sept 25: taroudant
We depart the dunes for the haunting beauty of Lake Iriki, a vast dry salt flat framed by the Jbel Bani mountains. Our path then leads to Taliouine, the heart of Morocco’s saffron harvest, where the air carries the scent of the world's most precious spice. We end the day in Taroudant, affectionately known as "Little Marrakech," where we’ll settle in for a two-night stay.
Day 7 | saturday, sept 26: repos
Today is dedicated to the soul. After an introductory morning walking tour of Taroudant’s ancient ramparts, the afternoon is yours. This is your time to unhurriedly wander the souks, sip mint tea in a quiet plaza, or simply indulge in the art of doing nothing by the pool.
Day 8 | Sunday, sept 27: la côte
The scent of cedar gives way to the salt spray of the Atlantic. We journey toward the coast, stopping for a fresh seafood lunch in the bustling port of Agadir. By afternoon, we arrive in the bohemian seaside fortress of Essaouira, where the Atlantic breeze and whitewashed walls will be our home for the next three nights.
Day 9 | Monday, sept 28: La plage
Essaouira is a place to simply be. Spend your day wandering the ramparts of this UNESCO World Heritage medina, watching fishermen bring in the day's catch, or feeling the sand between your toes on the expansive beach. Whether you choose a vigorous surfing lesson or a restorative spa treatment, the mantra for today is simple: Breathe.
Day 10 | tuesday, sept 29: ‘Swera & Safi
Linger in ‘Swera (the local name for Essaouira) for another day of seaside bliss, or join a coastal excursion to Safi. Known as the pottery capital of Morocco, Safi’s historic medina is a treasure trove of intricate ceramics. It’s the perfect opportunity to find a handcrafted masterpiece to carry home.
Day 11 | wednesday, sept 30: retour À marrakech
After breakfast, we make our way back to where it all began: Riad Baya in Marrakech. Our final afternoon is perfect for last-minute treasures in the souks before we gather on the rooftop. We’ll celebrate our journey with one last festive dinner, Toasting to the memories made under the Moroccan sun.
Day 11 | Thursday, oct 1: Le départ
We will say farewell to our hosts and new friends as we journey home, or on to your next adventure.
You also have the option to prolong your stay at Riad Baya, if you so desire. Ask Christina for details!
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Double accomodations, shared with a second traveler $5,800
Single accomodations $6,900
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Hotel : Eleven nights, double occupancy; all rooms are non-smoking and have private baths, including desert camp.
Single accommodations are available upon request, please see rates listed above.
All breakfasts, three lunches and eight group dinners; up to two glasses of wine with group dinners.
Land Transportation including airport transfer upon arrival and at departure as well as all other inter-city transportation by air-conditioned coach.
Tours with licensed English-speaking guides.
All entrance fees for visits mentioned in the itinerary.
Tips based on suggested minimum. You are welcome (and encouraged!) to tip additionally for exceptional service.
All applicable taxes and service charges.
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Flights and transportation from your point of origin and Marrakech or your return.
Trip insurance.
Meals and beverages not included in the itinerary.
