Best of Morocco - Small Group, Winter
Best of Morocco - Small Group, Winter
Best of Morocco - Small Group, Winter
10 Days Starting and ending in Casablanca
Visiting: Casablanca, Rabat, Meknès, Fes, Midelt, Erfoud, Todra River, Dades Valley, Ouarzazate, Marrakesh, Essaouira
Tour operator:
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 24
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Discover the spectacular sites of Morocco on this 10-day guided tour. View Morocco's largest mosque in Casablanca and indulge in a feast of aromatic tagines and exotic fruits inside the ancient palace in Fes. Then take time to watch the enticing art of belly dancing. Be awed by the rugged red mountains of Dades Valley, then sip wild-herb tea alongside local nomads. Before you reach Marrakesh, walk around one of Morocco's most impressive kasbahs at the gate of the Saraha, an earthen clay fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. And of course, you won't leave Morocco without seeing the snake charmers, storytellers and acrobats in Marrakesh's markets and souks, where you can buy anything from a cashmere scarf to a woven rug.
Top Rated Highlights
- Rabat: See the Royal Palace and Hassan Tower.
- Casablanca: See the Hassan II Mosque and the Corniche.
- Meknès: Admire the Bab el-Mansour Gate on Place El-Hedim in the heart of the Medina.
- Fes: Led by your Local Expert, wander the maze of streets that make up the ancient Medina. See one of the world's oldest universities and pass hidden courtyards, mosques and workshops. Continue through the souks, an array of vendors selling food, clothes, leather goods and beautiful lights.
- Erfoud: Enjoy the beauty of this little oasis with the backdrop of the Sahara desert whilst you explore the red walled streets.
- Tinghir: Visit Todra Gorge to marvel at this fascinating ravine, created by a fault that split the orange-coloured limestone as deep as 300 meters.
- Dades Valley: See the castellated mud houses and oases.
- Ouarzazate: Learn more about this quiet town in a city orientation and see why it has been the backdrop to many films as you wander its red sandy streets.
- Aït Ben Haddou: The Ksar is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the finest examples of South Moroccan architecture. See the crowded houses within the defensive walls that are reinforced by the corner towers and explore one of Morocco's finest kasbahs.
- Marrakesh: Your Local Expert guides you past Jemaa el-Fnaa Square with its intriguing characters and through the seemingly entangled streets of the Medina with its many souks. See the protruding Koutoubia Minaret.
- Essaouira: See the beauty of this bohemian coastal town as you explore the many spice-scented streets of the medina.
Make Travel Matter
Fes: Visit the non-profit American Fondouk founded in 1927 and speak with the volunteer veterinarians who care so passionately for the welfare of the animals and the families who are so dependant on their labour. Your visit supports United Nations Global Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
Authentic Dining
Fes: Join in the fun at a colourful Moroccan feast, complete with music, belly dancers and an array of local delicacies.
Casablanca: You must remember this...a fabulous 4-course dinner with drinks at Rick's Café, made famous by the 1942 film.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Casablanca
Location: Casablanca
Accommodation Name: Grand Mogador City Center, Casablanca
Meals Included: Dinner
Join your Travel Director and fellow guests for your Welcome Dinner, with the opportunity to mingle over a pleasant evening of good food.
Day 2: Rabat, Imperial Meknes And Fes Relaxed Start
Location: Casablanca, Rabat, Meknès, Fes
Accommodation Name: Marriott Jnan Palace, Fes
Meals Included: Breakfast
During an exploration of the sights of Casablanca, view the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, the third largest in the world. Venture to the très chic seaside strip known as the Corniche, which stretches to the west and is lined with trendy restaurants and cafes. Depart for the capital of Rabat to see the Royal Palace, Hassan Tower and visit one of the few holy places open to non-Muslims, the lavish Mausoleum of King Mohammed V. This site is both an architectural marvel and a monument to a great ruler. Travel to Meknes, one of the kingdom's great imperial cities where little has changed since its founding in the 11th century. Stand before the Bab el-Mansour, the monumental entrance to the imperial city and focal point of Square El-Hedim, before continuing to Fes. You'll be delighted with a superb Moroccan Highlight Dinner in an ancient palace at the entrance to the Medina. A colourful array of meze plates, aromatic tagines, exotic fruits and wine will be laid before you while you are entertained with a traditional folklore show. Enjoy the carnival-like atmosphere of belly dancers, drums and authentic music.
Day 3: Fes Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Fes
Accommodation Name: Marriott Jnan Palace, Fes
Meals Included: Breakfast
Led by your Local Expert, wander the maze of streets that make up one of the largest thriving ancient Medina's in the world, here you can admire traditional Moroccan handiwork during a visit to a carpet cooperative. Pass one of the world's oldest universities and see the hidden courtyards, mosques and workshops. Continue through the souks where an array of vendors sell food, clothes, leather goods and beautiful lights.
Day 4: The Ziz Gorges To Erfoud
Location: Fes, Midelt, Erfoud
Accommodation Name: Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud, Erfoud
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leave the bustle of the city behind and head for the spectacular snowcapped High Atlas Mountains. Pass through Ifrane before reaching the great cedar forests of Azrou. After stopping for lunch at Midelt, continue through the magnificent Ziz Gorges, past palm-fringed towns to Errachidia, built by the French at an important crossroads. Your destination is Erfoud, where the red sand buildings stand in stark contrast against the patches of greenery and surrounding desert. In the evening, there is an Optional Experience to meet the nomadic desert dwellers and marvel at the glorious Sahara sunset on a four-wheel drive vehicle.
Day 5: Spectacular Ouarzazate
Location: Erfoud, Todra River, Dades Valley, Ouarzazate
Accommodation Name: Le Berbère Palace, Ouarzazate
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Venture towards the oasis of Tinehir and explore the Todra Gorge, known as the Grand Canyon of the Sahara. At Boumalne du Dadès you will encounter the dry and rugged Dades Valley, dotted with oases of figs, olives, date palms and castellated mud houses—hugging the slopes. Meet the locals of the region when you visit a traditional Nomad house to try authentic Berber tea. The Road of a Thousand Kasbahs concludes at Ouarzazate, also known as the film capital of Morocco. Many blockbusters have been filmed here, including Lawrence of Arabia and Star Wars.
Day 6: To Marrakesh
Location: Ouarzazate, Marrakesh
Accommodation Name: Mövenpick Mansour Eddahbi, Marrakesh
Meals Included: Breakfast
Marvel at and photograph the architectural wonder of Ksar of Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO WorldHeritage Site that boasts one of Morocco's finest kasbahs. Your journey continues via the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass, before descending past charming mountain villages, dense woods and green fields to the ochre-coloured city of Marrakesh. Meet the inspiring ladies of a local women’s cooperative over tea and snacks on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. With the rest of the day at your leisure, why not relax and enjoy the immaculate facilities of your hotel?
Day 7: Marrakesh, Pearl Of The South Relaxed Start
Location: Marrakesh
Accommodation Name: Mövenpick Mansour Eddahbi, Marrakesh
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, visit Dar El Bacha - an iconic landmark in the city of Marrakech. Meet your Local Expert and wander the maze of the Medina and see the Koutoubia Mosque, with its minaret dominating the Marrakesh skyline. Next, to the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where you can take a moment to watch the dancers, snake charmers and storytellers. With time at leisure, you are free to continue exploring: enjoy the sensorial experience of strolling through the souks or maybe visit a museum. In the evening, perhaps choose to join fellow guests at a vibrant restaurant on Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Here, you will enjoy a slew of classic Moroccan dishes as you absorb the ambience and watch twirling belly dancers balance plates of lit candles on their heads.
Day 8: Elegant Essaouira Relaxed Start
Location: Marrakesh, Essaouira
Accommodation Name: Atlas Essaouira & Spa.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Venture to the west coast of Africa to reach the laid-back fishing town of Essaouira. After an orientation with your Travel Director why not spend the afternoon navigating the narrow alleyways, exploring the busy fishing port or maybe just relaxing on the beach? In the evening, you could sample the local seafood and wine at a waterside restaurant.
Day 9: Return To Casablanca Relaxed Start
Location: Essaouira, Casablanca
Accommodation Name: Grand Mogador City Center, Casablanca
Meals Included: Breakfast
Once you’ve experienced the traditional charms of the country, Casablanca is a fascinating place to return to and offers a unique insight into modern Morocco. Perhaps visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque famous for its intricate Islamic architecture and one of the largest in the world. In the evening 'of all the gin joints, in all the towns, in all the world' there really is only one place to be. Join your Travel Director at Rick's Café, recreated from the famous movie. Enjoy a hearty dinner with drinks and no doubt a rendition of ‘As Time Goes By'. Here's looking at you kid!
Day 10: Au Revoir Casablanca
Location: Casablanca
Accommodation Name: Grand Mogador City Center
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, bid farewell to your journey through Morocco as you transfer to the airport.
What's Included
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Meals
Includes 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 5 dinners with wine.
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Accommodation
Stay in comfortable and luxurious hotels throughout the tour.
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Transportation
Luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Guided Tours
Expertly guided tours in Fes, Marrakesh, Casablanca, and more, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
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Special Experiences
Enjoy unique experiences such as a Moroccan feast in Fes, tea with a local Berber family, and a Celebration Dinner at Rick's Café in Casablanca.
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Additional Services
Hotel and restaurant tips, all taxes and porterage charges, complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi, and personal radio headsets for tours.
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Airport Transfers
Included if arrival and departure times align with the itinerary start and end dates.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from the start and end of the tour are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Some Meals
Not all meals are covered, giving you the opportunity to explore local cuisines on your own.
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Optional Experiences
Some experiences and excursions may require an additional cost.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, and souvenirs are not included.
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Airport Transfers
Airport transfers are included only if arrival and departure times align with the itinerary start and end dates.
Otherwise, transfers may be purchased or arranged independently.
Dining Summary
- 2 Dinner (D)
- 9 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 2 Lunch (L)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- Dades Valley: Stop at a traditional Nomad house and meet the locals as you sip Berber tea.
- Marrakesh: Visit Dar El Bacha, a beautiful palace that has been standing since the 18th century and is a symbol of the city’s rich history and culture.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What are the highlights of the Best of Morocco tour?
The highlights of the Best of Morocco tour include a colourful Moroccan feast in Fes with music and belly dancers, a visit to a traditional Nomad house in Dades Valley for Berber tea, a 4-course Celebration Dinner at Rick's Café in Casablanca, sightseeing in Rabat, Casablanca, Meknès, Fes, Erfoud, Tinghir, Dades Valley, Aït Benhaddou, Ouarzazate, Essaouira, and Marrakesh, exploring the ancient Medina in Fes, the beauty of the Sahara desert in Erfoud, the fascinating ravine in Tinghir, and the architecture of Aït Benhaddou. Additionally, guests can choose between a guided bike tour in Marrakesh or a visit to the Palais Bahia, and enjoy a visit to a local women’s cooperative in Marrakesh.
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How many meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 9 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L), and 6 dinners with wine (DW).
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What is the starting point of the tour?
The starting point of the tour is Casablanca.
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Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites included in the itinerary?
Yes, the tour includes a visit to Aït Benhaddou, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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What are the accommodation options during the tour?
Accommodation options during the tour include the Grand Mogador City Center and Marriott Jnan Palace Fes in Fes, Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud in Erfoud, Le Berbère Palace in Ouarzazate, and Mӧvenpick Mansour Eddahbi Marrakech in Marrakesh.
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Is there an option for a private tour?
The information provided does not specify whether there is an option for a private tour.
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What are the included activities in Marrakesh?
Included activities in Marrakesh are a guided bike tour organized by a company that empowers local youth, or a visit to the intricately decorated Palais Bahia, and exploring the Bahia Palace with a Local Expert. Additionally, guests can explore Jemaa el-Fnaa Square and the Medina with a Local Expert.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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