A Moroccan Grand Tour

Price guide

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A Moroccan Grand Tour

Duration11 days

Price guide

From

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Destinations

Days 1–3

High Atlas Mountains

This 11-day journey will give you a comprehensive introduction to Morocco’s highlights. Take in historic cities, the sands of the Sahara and the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains as you gain rich insights into Moroccan life and culture from privately guided tours. Along the way, you'll stay at incredible hotels, villas and riads, soaking up the country's varied landscapes and the atmosphere of different cities.

Trip highlights

Explore the ancient medina of Fes with it tiny streets
Spend time browsing dazzling night markets in Marrakesh
Navigate a winding pass through the High Atlas
Enjoy a night under the stars in the Sahara Desert
Visit the remarkably preserved Roman city of Volubilis
Follow a variety of hiking trails in the High Atlas Mountains

The medina of Fes

A night market in Marrakesh

The High Atlas Mountains

Azalai Desert Camp

Roman city of Volubilis

Hiking in the High Atlas Mountains

Bespoke trips with Jacada

We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:

Luxury accommodation throughout
Privately guided tours
Private transfers
Meticulously selected experiences
Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge

Black and white illustration of two guides pointing to a building in the distance

Itinerary in detail

Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.

Days 1–3

Explore Fes

The city of Fes, Morocco’s second largest, is considered to be its cultural and religious capital. Divided into three districts, the oldest and most fascinating is Fes el Bali, founded in the 9th century. Venturing through its vast gates into the medina is like stepping back in time. Its dense maze of some 9000 alleys are plied by donkeys and hand-pulled carts (said to be the largest car-free urban area in the world), with narrow passageways leading through beautiful squares, into the middle of a spice-scented food market or to a dead end and the ruins of an abandoned house. Head up to a rooftop terrace to really appreciate the maelstrom at street level.

Where you could stay

Fes

Karawan Riad

Once a sumptuous harem as part of a palatial 17th century complex of riads, the Karawan Riad was restored over a decade to recapture its former atmosphere with the help of local artisans and their traditional skills. Among the most lavish offerings in the medina, all seven romantic suites are unique with unique furniture, antique textiles and original art works along with vast beds, exquisite bed linens and a number of discrete modern touches like underfloor heating and air conditioning. The riad is centre around the courtyard, off which you can find the restaurant, library and Ottoman-style hamman spa. Tea here is a delightful affair thanks to a very talented pastry chef, and you can enjoy meals and drinks either down in the dining room, salon or up on the roof terrace.

Fes

Riad Fes

At the edge of the medina, the Riad Fes is a Relais & Châteaux property with a traditional feel, blending Andalusian, Moroccan and modern décor in a way that reflects the city’s heritage and its current. Four communal patios are distinctly styled in traditional, Moorish, Baroque, and contemporary finishes with colonnaded arcades, stylish pools, zellige tiles and fine stuccowork. Around these, find 30 rooms and suites – the largest of which are positively palatial – refined Moroccan food in L’Ambre Restaurant, hammams, lounges, a wine bar and a library. Up on the rooftop, enjoy fabulous panoramic views of the medina and mountains beyond with a drink from the bar in hand, a most spectacular scene at sunset.

Fes

Palais Amani

The Palais Amani is a charming riad set just inside the medina, close to the Tannery Quarter, owned by a British-Moroccan couple. Just 15 rooms are found around a beautiful central courtyard garden. Given the property’s historic nature, each is unique, some with beds on mezzanines, salons and dressing rooms. The Palais Amani’s restaurant, the Market Moroccan, serves a monthly changing three-course bistro menu of healthy dishes reflecting the abundance of seasonal produce from the markets just outside, the secrets of which you can learn in fabulous the Amani Cookery Workshop. A bar with 360-degree views sits atop the riad. There is a hamman spa and massages can take place in rooms overlooking the garden or in a tented pergola which also can be found up on the roof terrace.

Fes

Hotel Sahrai

On the site of a former colonial palace with views taking in the old medina, the Hotel Sahrai is a strikingly modern take on Moroccan architecture. Great arches, mirroring the former façade, shade colonnaded pathways that lead into lush atriums and to 50 stylish rooms and suites, some of which have their own private terrace area. There are two restaurants – Relais de Paris, with a menu of French brasserie favorites, and Amaraz, which serves traditional Moroccan in a simple yet sophisticating setting. Up on the rooftop, find a wonderful swimming pool and hip bar. The hotel is also home to a Givenchy spa and gym.

Make it mine

Time to dine

Roman ruins

Fes on foot

Lunch at a private home in Moulay Idriss

En route to Meknes and Volubilis, stop in Moulay Idris for a gourmet Moroccan lunch made with locally grown and produced products at a private home.

Meknes and Volubilis tour

Drive through miles of vineyards and olive groves to Meknes, to discover its grand past and expansive souks. Nearby is Volubilis, a partly excavated and remarkably preserved Roman city. Built in a fertile agricultural area, it developed from the 3rd century BC onward as a Phoenician, then proto-Carthaginian, settlement.

Fes guided tour

Fes, Morocco’s ancient imperial capital, is the most complete medieval city of the Islamic world, and a guided walk around its incredible medina is the best way to soak up its timeless atmosphere without fear of getting lost amid the maze. Spend today with your guide seeking out historical highlights, markets and more. The most famous landmark here is The University of al-Qarawiyyin, the oldest educational institute in the world, with UNESCO status.

Days 3–6

Sights and sounds of Marrakesh

With its rich atmosphere, fascinating history and Berber culture, the city of Marrakesh encapsulates what draws people from around the world to Morocco. Near one thousand-year-old red walls surround the historic medina, with monumental gates leading through to a warren of winding alleys. It’s here you’ll find Marrakesh’s vibrant souks, markets and artisan workshops selling fragrant spices, leather-ware, jewellery, Berber carpets, spices, fabrics, lamps, pottery and more. The centrepiece is Jemaa el-Fnaa, a bustling marketplace square that hosts storytellers, musicians and performers in what is an unforgettable nightly spectacle.

We can arrange a guided tour to take you to historic highlights in the medina. As well as narrow streets, riads and bazaars, the walls encompass grand palaces, gardens, mosques, bustling squares, tombs and museums.

Where you could stay

Marrakesh

La Villa des Orangers

Behind a modest facade close to the Koutoubia Mosque and bustling Jemaa El Fna Square, what was once a grand private riad has been transformed into a sanctuary of a luxury hotel. The Villa des Orangers is an elegant place, with 27 rooms and suites arranged around three garden patios, fragrant with citrus tree accompanied by the sounds of songbirds and tricking fountains. Décor is palatial, with fine fabrics, intricate stuccowork, carved wood and antiques. Most of the rooms have their own balconies or terraces, with the ‘Private Riad’ enjoying two bedrooms, solarium, plunge pool and its own private entrance. A sparkling swimming pool sits at the heart of the property (a can be found on the rooftop overlooking second rooftop overlooking the Koutoubia and Atlas Mountains), next to which is the excellent Mediterranean restaurant. Other spots to relax include fire-warmed lounges, a cigar cellar, an impressive hammam and a spa.

Marrakesh

La Sultana Marrakech

Inside the walls of Marrakesh’s medina, across the road from the Saadian and short walk from the buzz of Jemaa El Fna square, La Sultana is an intimate luxury hotel made up of a five 19th century riads, each delicately resorted to retain its elegant charm and a palpable sense of history. Maze-like alleys ways lead to sprawling corridors, hidden chambers and peaceful courtyards. There are 28 rooms and suites, each uniquely designed but with a traditional theme of hand carved woods, rich fabrics, antique furniture, fireplaces and sculpted ceilings. La Sultana’s restaurant offers delicate Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine with tasting menus served in the cosy patio during the winter or up on the rooftop terrace with fabulous city views, as well as lighter street food-inspired lunches and homemade breakfasts. Cooking classes are held in the open air on the rooftop every morning. The views of the Medina and its monuments are lovely from here. There’s also a courtyard swimming pool and a sumptuous vaulted spa with two hammans, jacuzzi, sauna, baths, open-air massage booths and a rich selection of natural local products.

Marrakesh

Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech

A short way south east of the bustling medina, the Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech is an understatedly opulent resort set nestled amid 20 hectares of olive groves and fragrant gardens centred around a serene series of ponds with the Atlas Mountains as a backdrop. There are 54 expansive one- and two-bed villas, each with a heated pool, jacuzzi and open-air shower set within a private walled garden. Seven suites have rooftop plunge pools making the most of the views while two Infinity Pool Suites offer direct access to the spa. The design throughout them all is a calm blend of traditional Moroccan décor and elegant contemporary touches. Dining here is superb with three restaurants – traditional Moroccan cuisine with a contemporary twist at Mes’Lalla, al fresco, all-day dining at Pool Garden, fine Cantonese dishes and innovative at Ling Ling, and lighter bites and champagne at Le Salon Berbère. Of course you can also have food brought to your villa or suite at any hour. The spa is world class, drawing on the Mandarin’s Oriental heritage and Moroccan location to create a holistic oasis with two hammams, four private treatment rooms, heated pool, yoga studio and comprehensive fitness centre.

Marrakesh

La Mamounia

In an enviable location close to Marrakesh’s medina and Jemaa el Fna square, in the middle of beautiful royal gardens from which it takes its name, La Mamounia is an icon of luxury and Moroccan hospitality. For almost a century, the landmark hotel has attracted dignified clientele from around the globe, being a firm favourite of Winston Churchill (who has both a suite and bar named in his honour) and Hollywood stars, as well being where James Stewart and Doris Day stay in Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘The Man Who Knew Too Much’. While countless other luxury hotels have opened in Marrakesh since 1923, La Mamounia has confidently remained one of the finest establishments in the city with modern yet considerate updates under notable architects to its palatial Deco-Moroccan interiors, world class chefs and timeless service. There are 136 rooms, 71 suites and three private three-bedroom riads. The higher the floor, the better the view over the medina or gardens, especially from those with private balconies. The style is unashamedly Moroccan, with dazzling tiles, intricate stuccowork and sumptuous fabrics. Four acclaimed restaurants include the slightly formal Le Français, L’Italien and fabulous Le Marocain, each serving modern takes on national cuisine, as well as the relaxed Pool Pavilion, the spot for breakfast and lunch buffets as well as a famous Sunday brunch. There are also four bars and a pastry shop which sits the edge of the park. Another highlight here is the expansive spa, with traditional hammams, heated pool, and numerous booths to indulge in all-natural products made from Moroccan argon oil, ghassoul, saffron and more.

Marrakesh

Royal Mansour

On the eastern edge of Marrakesh’s historic medina, the Royal Mansour is a private enclave built for the king of Morocco that has set new standards for luxury in the city. There are no suites or rooms here. On arrival, you will be escorted through palatial Alhambra-inspired gardens to your private three-storey riad, one of 53 here. On the ground floor find a central courtyard, living room and bar. Bedrooms (one to four rooms) and bathrooms are on the first floor with a plunge pool and fireplace on a Bedouin tent shaded roof terrace overlooking the city. The larger riads also feature dining rooms, their own swimming pools, steam rooms and private hammam. Each are uniquely decorated and lavishly appointed with fine silks, contemporary art, intricate mosaic and stuccowork, and handmade furniture, a fine blend of tradition and modernity that was the work of some 1200 craftspeople. Service here is exemplary and discreet. Riads are assigned staff – two bedrooms or more will garner you a personal butler – who reach each residence via a network of underground tunnels, presenting fine meals and the like meaning you need never leave. A wonder through the rest of this exclusive mini-medina reveals it to be a true architectural masterpiece, with a large outdoor pool, tea lounge, library, art gallery and one of the finest hammam spas in the country. There are also three glamorous bars including a fumoir, and three fabulous restaurant; the relaxed La Table, and two fine dining options, one French and one Moroccan, overseen by three time Michelin star awarded chef Yannick Alléno. When you do venture out, the excellent concierge team can recommend the best souks, boutiques and galleries, or you can discover the old town by horse and carriage. Special excursions to the mountains and desert beyond can also be arranged.

Marrakesh

Amanjena

Set in its own expanse of gardens, Amanjena’s architecture has been inspired by the rose-hued buildings of old Marrakech. Shaded courtyards, vaulted ceilings and petal-strewn fountains invite you to relax and drink in the views out across olive groves and palms towards the High Atlas Mountains. The spacious standalone guest pavilions and maisons boast private gardens and some have private pool. The elegant dwellings have been designed to create a cool oasis for you, think scattered Berber carpets, zellij-tiled floors, candle lanterns and high ceilings. Dine on authentic local cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant. In addition to Moroccan dishes, you can also savour seasonal Italian family favourites at Arva, and Japanese fare Nama beside the pool. Private dining experiences can be arranged in a variety of atmospheric spots around the property. Relax at the pool, play a game of tennis on one of the clay courts, take to the 27-hole Amelkis Golf Course next door, or head out into the otherworldly landscape of the Agafay dunes.

Make it mine

Awaken your senses

Hit the shops

Fashion connection

Djemma el fan square, the famous night food market in the centre of Marrakesh's Medina, Morroco, West Africa. Many traditional food sellers are cooking every night for the tourists and Moroccan people

Culinary tour of Jemaa el-Fnaa

Meet your local insider guide and head to the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Awaken your five senses as you stop at the tastiest food stalls, visit olive and nut souks and sample local specialities. You will also see various performing artists which will make your first evening in Marrakesh an outstanding experience.

Artisan and shopping souk tour

Marrakesh is world famous for its shopping. A maze of alleyways in the old city host an array of sellers, ranging from tiny kiosks to busy workshops and galleries. Traditionally, the souks were divided into areas, each specialising in goods such as leather-ware, jewellery, Berber carpets, spices, teas, shoes, fabrics, lamps, pottery and more. Based on your own interests, your private guide will take you to the best, most authentic boutiques and craftspeople.

Majorette gardens in Marrakech - the deep blue coloured building is surrounded by cacti

Yves Saint Laurent Museum and Jardin Majorelle

Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé first visited Marrakech in 1966, quickly falling in love with the city; its vibrant colours and intricate decor a constant source of inspiration. Step into the Majorelle Gardens, a haven of peace, then visit the Yves Saint Laurent Fashion Museum and the Berber Museum.

Days 6–7

Overnight in Skoura

Spend a relaxing night in the oasis town of Skoura at the fabulous Dar Ahlam, before heading into the desert in the morning. Enjoy an exclusive aperitif and private dinner at a unique location at the Kasbah or lost in the gardens.

Where you could stay

Skoura

Dar Ahlam

The creation of a French theatre producer, the Dar Ahlam is more than just a beautiful 200-year old Kasbah turned oasis retreat.

Days 7–8

A night in the desert

Morocco’s corner of the desert lies south of the High Atlas Mountains, a smattering of oasis towns becoming less frequent the further you venture, eventually reaching the golden dune seas that evokes the most romantic images of the Sahara. Here you’ll find camel trains emerging from the heat haze led by blue-scarfed Berbers, and there’s no better way to experience the desert than a night in a traditional nomad camp. The 4X4 journey to camp takes about five hours.

Where you could stay

Moroccan Sahara

Azalai Desert Camp

In the sand sea of Chigaga, a tongue of the Sahara Desert around three hours through the dune from the frontier town of Zagora, exists a simple sense of luxury that perfectly suits a night among the dunes. Each tent has an en suite shower with water heated on request. Outside find a lounge where you can relax with fresh tea and be attended to by your personal butler, and a al fresco dining area which is the perfect setting for four-course French-Moroccan dinners under the stars after time exploring the dunes by camel or on foot.

Moroccan Sahara

Itran Royal Camp

Situated among the beautiful sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, Itran Royal Camp offers you a relaxing place to drink in the sights and sounds of the ever-changing desert. It is the perfect getaway for honeymooners or small groups looking for uncompromising solitude. The ten spacious, luxury tents are comfortable. Think elegant, clean lines and pops of bright colour. Spend your days here exploring the enchanting desert or simply unwinding and reflecting. Head out on sunset camel rides, enjoy sunrise from on top of the dunes, and savour delectable Moroccan dinners under the stars. Dining at Itran Royal Camp is a sumptuous affair with a feast of Moroccan flavours to ensure you’re never hungry.

Return to Skoura

You’ll return to Dar Ahlam via a different route with more spectacular desert scenery to enjoy along the way.

Days 8–9

Berber traditions in Skoura

Return to Skoura for the night in time to take advantage of the afternoon’s agreeable temperature, following your guide and discover the local traditions of Berber people, learn about the palm grove’s ecosystem and explore the imposing yet ornate 17th century Kasbah Amridil, a relic from the time when Skoura was a prosperous trading post for camel trains.

Where you could stay

Skoura

Dar Ahlam

The creation of a French theatre producer, the Dar Ahlam is more than just a beautiful 200-year old Kasbah turned oasis retreat.

Ait Ben Haddou

On your way to the nearby Ouarzazate Airport, you have the opportunity to visit the Kasbah of a tyrannical Pasha at Ait Ben Haddou, a fascinating place that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Days 9–11

On top of the world

The Atlas Mountains are a rugged chain that span North Africa from the Atlantic coast through Algeria and Tunisia, an imposing barrier between the fertile Mediterranean coast from the vast Sahara Desert. The most dramatic section, the High Atlas, can be found in central Morocco. Roads follow green valleys dotted with mud-built Berber villages, up through forest and over winding passes then down to wadis and old caravan trading posts on the edge of the Sahara. It is a haven for hikers of all levels from spring through to autumn, whether following well worn trails or donning crampons to conquer jagged peaks.