The Moroccan Grand Tour
Timeless medinas, oasis towns, stars in the Sahara and Atlas Mountains
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
What's included
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Luxury accommodation throughout
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Private nomadic camp in the Sahara
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Privately guided tours
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Private transfers and airport meet and greet
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Full support from your Travel Concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
Taking in historic cities, the sands of the Sahara and snow-capped High Atlas Mountains, all while staying in a fabulous mix of luxurious accommodation with a diverse mix of privately guided tours throughout, this ten-day trip is an authentic and indulgent way experience of Morocco’s highlights.
Begin with a dive into Morocco’s past in the spiritual and cultural capital of Fes. Explore its ancient medina, an incredible network of tiny streets and alleyways that has seemingly spurned the last few centuries, and contemplate delicate Roman mosaics while wandering in the Volubilis ruins.
In Marrakesh, get a taste of the most innovative Moroccan cuisine and explore its artistic but traditional atmosphere. You’ll meet skilled artisans, see dazzling night markets and visit storied cultural sites such as the blue oasis of Jardin Majorelle and Bahia Palace.
Turning south, cross the Atlas Mountains via a winding pass to reach the oasis town of Skoura, following in the footsteps of countless camel trains out into the dunes of the Sahara Desert for an unforgettable night under the starts in your very own nomad-style camp.
End with two nights at a luxurious kasbah surrounded in lush valley flanked by the peaks of the Atlas Mountains with time at leisure to hike, explore Berber villages or simply relax and take in the views.
Example trip itinerary
Fes
Transfer
VIP arrival at the Casablanca Airport with fast-track service and lounge access
Transfer
Private transfer to Fes
Accommodation in Fes
- Seven suites
- Restaurant
- Hammam and spa
- Library
- Roof terrace
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.
- 30 rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Rooftop bar
- Swimming pool
- Hamman spa
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.
- 15 rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Rooftop bar
- Cookery school
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.
- 50 rooms
- Two restaurants
- Rooftop bar and swimming pool
- Givenchy spa and traditional hammam
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.
Two nights in Fes
The city of Fes, Morocco’s second largest, is considered to be its cultural and religious capital and often referred to as the Mecca of the West. 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. It’s 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.
The fresh air of the public Jnan Sbil Gardens connects the old medina to Fes el Jdid, or ‘New Fez’, the 13th century extension which contains the vast Royal Palace and the Mellah which was once home to some 250,000 Jews, many immigrants from Spain. Built by the French at the beginning of the 20th century, the Ville Nouvelle is the third and most modern of Fes’ districts.
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, one of Morocco's four imperial cities (along with Fes, Marrakesh and Rabat) to discover its grand past and expansive souks. The grand Bab Mansour gate and central square are must sees, as are the ruins of stables of 17th century king Moulay Ismail ibn Sharif's stables that once housed 12,000 stables.
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 before being the capital of the kingdom of Mauretania. Through olives and wine, it prospered under Roman rule from the 1st century AD and gained a number of major public buildings and fine town-houses with large mosaic floors. Falling to local tribes in 285, it remained habited for another seven centuries as a Latinised Christian community, then as an early Islamic settlement. By the 11th century Volubilis had been abandoned after the seat of power was relocated to Fes.
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.
Transfer
Private transfer to Marrakesh
Marrakesh
Accommodation in Marrakesh
- 27 rooms and suites
- Two heated swimming pools
- Restaurant
- Hammam and spa
- Cigar cellar
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.
- 28 rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Swimming pool
- Spa and sauna
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.
- 54 villas
- Nine suites
- Three restaurants
- World-class spa
- Heated swimming pools
- Fitness centre
- Kids' club
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.
- 209 rooms and suites
- Four restaurants
- Five bars
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
- Spa
- Clay tennis court
- Organic garden
- Fitness centre
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.
- 53 riad villas
- Three restaurants
- Three bars
- Spa
- Library
- Fitness centre
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.
- 40 guest pavilions and maisons
- Two restaurants
- Swimming pool
- Spa
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.
Three nights in Marrakesh
With its rich atmosphere, fascinating history and rich 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 market place square that hosts storytellers, musicians and performers in what is an unforgettable nightly spectacle.
One the other side of the walls is the rest of the city, known as the Gueliz. The lavish El Badi, Bahia and Royal Palaces flank the kasbah, each wonderful examples of Berber design and craft. Also out here are wonderful gardens such as Yves Saint Lauren’s Jardin Majorelle and the sprawling Menara gardens set against the Atlas Mountains.
Culinary tour of Jemaa el-Fnaa
Meet your local insider guide and head to the magical medina of Marrakesh. Reach the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square to really feel the oriental wonders of this place. Your guide will awaken your five senses during this tour as you stop at the tastiest food stalls, visit olive and nut souks and sample local specialities. Moreover, you will see various artists ranging from snake charmers to acrobats which will make your first evening in Marrakesh an outstanding experience.
Medina of Marrakesh tour
Your private guide will show you around some of Marrakesh's historic highlights in the medina, the old fortified city which is ringed by some 19km (12 miles) of walls and monumental gates which date back to the 12th century. The entirety of the old town is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As well as narrow streets, riads and bazaars, the walls encompass grand palaces, gardens, mosques, bustling squares, tombs and museums including Bahia Palace, the Saadian tombs, the Medersa ben Youssef, and the ever-present Koutoubia Mosque, whose minaret will always help you to find the right direction.
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, intricate decor and buzzing markets a constant source of inspiration. Step into the Majorelle Gardens, a heaven of peace and colours, then visit the Yves Saint Laurent Fashion Museum and the interesting Berber Museum.
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 specializing 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.
Private transfer to Skoura
Today your chauffeur and guide will accompany you to Skoura, a scenic journey of around 270km (170 miles) that will take approximately 5 hours crossing the High Atlas Mountains over the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. En route, stop for lunch at the peaceful courtyard of Amal, a restaurant led by a local non-profit dedicated to women empowerment and helping local women become professional chefs.
Skoura
Accommodation in Skoura
- 14 rooms
- Unique dining experiences
- Swimming pool
- Hammam and massage room
The creation of a French theatre producer, the Dar Ahlam is more than just a beautiful 200-year old Kasbah turned oasis retreat.
In the historic village of Skoura, once an important trade post between the Atlas Mountains to the north and the desert to the south, this ornate four-towered fortress now has 14 rooms, some tucked away within the Kasbah itself and others among the lush gardens.
Days here are long, languid and tailored around your whims, with a few magical surprises along the way. Laze around the pool or in the hammam, take a cooking class or explore Skoura on walks and bicycle rides. With a guide and 4×4 you can also venture further afield down scenic valleys to other charming villages, markets and snow-capped mountains. For a truly unforgettable evening, spend a night at one of Dar Ahlam’s private Berber camps out in endless the sands of the Sahara Desert at Dune’s Camp during the winter months or in the aptly named named Valley of the Roses in the summer.
Every meal is a gourmet experience with delicate, innovative takes on Moroccan and international cuisine created by Frederick Grasser-Hermé and desserts dreamed up by French patissier Pierre Hermé. When you eat is entirely up to you and the setting will always be private and never the same, whether in the herb garden, a hidden corner of the Kasbah by lantern or a picnic by a desert oasis.
One night Skoura
Spend a relaxing night in the oasis town of Skoura before heading into the desert in the morning at the fabulous Dar Ahlam. Enjoy an exclusive aperitif and private dinner at a unique location at the Kasbah or lost in the gardens.
Moroccan Sahara
Private 4x4 transfer to your desert camp
Aboard 4x4 with your private driver, head towards the Southern Sahara Desert. The initial drive to Zagora is one of the most striking routes in Morocco. This road is initially mountainous, arid and bare until Agdz, before it joins up with the course of Drâa and one can admire palm plantations and cultivated fields. Lunch will be served as at a hidden lodge in the palm grove of Zagora before heading into the desert, off road, surrounded by the dunes, en route to your private camp for the night. The total journey time is between five and six hours.
Accommodation in Moroccan Sahara
- Four tents
- Lounge and dining area
- Walks
- Camel treks
- Star gazing
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.
- Ten luxury tents
- Spa
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.
One night in the Moroccan Sahara
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.
It’s 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. Perhaps take a camel trek in time for the purple sun set, dining around a fire under the starry sky before retiring to your tent surrounded by the luxury of nothingness.
Private 4x4 transfer to Skoura
Return to Dar Ahlam via a different route with more spectacular desert scenery to enjoy along the way.
Skoura
Accommodation in Skoura
- 14 rooms
- Unique dining experiences
- Swimming pool
- Hammam and massage room
The creation of a French theatre producer, the Dar Ahlam is more than just a beautiful 200-year old Kasbah turned oasis retreat.
In the historic village of Skoura, once an important trade post between the Atlas Mountains to the north and the desert to the south, this ornate four-towered fortress now has 14 rooms, some tucked away within the Kasbah itself and others among the lush gardens.
Days here are long, languid and tailored around your whims, with a few magical surprises along the way. Laze around the pool or in the hammam, take a cooking class or explore Skoura on walks and bicycle rides. With a guide and 4×4 you can also venture further afield down scenic valleys to other charming villages, markets and snow-capped mountains. For a truly unforgettable evening, spend a night at one of Dar Ahlam’s private Berber camps out in endless the sands of the Sahara Desert at Dune’s Camp during the winter months or in the aptly named named Valley of the Roses in the summer.
Every meal is a gourmet experience with delicate, innovative takes on Moroccan and international cuisine created by Frederick Grasser-Hermé and desserts dreamed up by French patissier Pierre Hermé. When you eat is entirely up to you and the setting will always be private and never the same, whether in the herb garden, a hidden corner of the Kasbah by lantern or a picnic by a desert oasis.
One night 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.
Private transfer to Ouarzazate Airport via Ait Ben Haddou
Drive to the nearby Ouarzazate Airport. En route, visit the Kasbah of a tyrannical Pasha at Ait Ben Haddou, a fascinating place that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Flight
Flight from Ouarzazate Airport to Marrakesh
Transfer
Private transfer to the High Atlas Mountains
High Atlas Mountains
Accommodation in High Atlas Mountains
- 15 rooms and suites
- 10 Berber Tents
- Three-bedroom Master Suite
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
- Restaurant and bar
- Spa
- Gym
- Tennis courts
In the rugged foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, the Kasbah Tamadot – meaning soft breeze in Beber – is a stunning luxury retreat in a valley just an hour from the bustling Marrakesh.
The expansive estate can be divided into four main areas. The original Kasbah building contains 15 original rooms, indoor pool, spa, library, tented Asmoun Lounge and a stunning courtyard reflection pool. Lovingly restored from what was once a crumbling fortress, the unique rooms feature a smattering of antiques, many with private balconies or terraces, and the best located for views of the valley and Atlas Mountains.
Next to this is the fabulous heated outdoor swimming pool (ideal for winter dips), hot tub, amphitheatre, sundeck, gym, spa treatment room and a collection of fruit trees.
On the other side of the pool, find the Master Suite, a miniature version of the main Kasbah with three bedrooms and a private pool, an ideal set up for families.
Beyond this are extensive gardens, tennis courts and the 10 Berber Tents. Sitting on decking overlooking the valley below and mountains beyond. All are sumptuous and six have their own jacuzzi.
The Kanoun Restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine and, if the weather suits, you can dine al fresco by the pool or on the rooftop terrace. There’s also an intimate fireside bar where you can try the local Moroccan wines.
This is a great place to simply relax after time in the city but there’s plenty on offer to keep you busy too. You can learn the secrets of Berber cooking with relaxed culinary classes, visit to the local craft houses in the neighbouring villages supported by the Eve Branson Foundation, trek along the river or up mountains on a range of trails or get acquainted with our resident mules, Peppermint, Peanut and Paprika, before a ride around the property. On warmer evenings Kasbah Tamadot hosts cinema nights where you can watch a selection of Moroccan inspired films in the open-air under the stars. Children of all ages are welcome and a range of activities can be tailored to suit each child.
- 26 rooms
- Restaurant
- Outdoor swimming pools
- Extensive gardens
- Spa and hammam
The Kasbah Bab Ourika stands on a hill looking down on the Ourika Valley’s river, green fields and citrus groves, all framed by the snowy peaks of the Atlas Mountains.
There are 26 beautiful rooms, each individually decorated in a way that blends traditional Berber architecture with vintage pieces and modern luxuries. Rooms are split between the main earthen building and the garden, including two pool suites, and all enjoy outstanding views. It is one of the most eco-friendly buildings in the country and was constructed using traditional methods.
A fabulous place to escape the energy of Marrakesh, relax in the extensive gardens, read in the fire-warmed lounge or watch the sun set from the infinity pool. Meals are served in the gardens or in the colonnaded restaurant by a chef who specialises in traditional Berber recipes as well as international cuisine. There’s also a spa and hammam, camel trekking, guided village walks, a number of hikes, mountain biking and more.
Two nights in the High Atlas Mountains
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, which also includes the tallest peak of Toubkal 4,167 metres (13,671 feet) which towers over the landscape due south of Marrakesh.
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. Snow falls from November to April – ski resorts can be found up here – and can last well into the summer on the north face of peaks.
Transfer
Private transfer to Marrakesh Menara Airport
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
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The Moroccan Grand Tour
How we work
Taking in historic cities, the sands of the Sahara and snow-capped High Atlas Mountains, all while staying in a fabulous mix of luxurious accommodation with a diverse mix of privately guided tours throughout, this ten-day trip is an authentic and indulgent way experience of Morocco’s highlights. Begin with a dive into Morocco’s past in the spiritual and cultural capital of Fes. Explore its ancient medina, an incredible network of tiny streets and alleyways that has seemingly spurned the last few centuries, and contemplate delicate Roman mosaics while wandering in the Volubilis ruins. In Marrakesh, get a taste of the most innovative Moroccan cuisine and explore its artistic but traditional atmosphere. You’ll meet skilled artisans, see dazzling night markets and visit storied cultural sites such as the blue oasis of Jardin Majorelle and Bahia Palace. Turning south, cross the Atlas Mountains via a winding pass to reach the oasis town of Skoura, following in the footsteps of countless camel trains out into the dunes of the Sahara Desert for an unforgettable night under the starts in your very own nomad-style camp. End with two nights at a luxurious kasbah surrounded in lush valley flanked by the peaks of the Atlas Mountains with time at leisure to hike, explore Berber villages or simply relax and take in the views. | Whats included?
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Days 1-3 |
Fes |
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Flights & transfers
VIP arrival at the Casablanca Airport with fast-track service and lounge access |
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| Private transfer to Fes | |
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Accommodation in Fes
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Karawan Riad - $$$$$
Once a sumptuous harem as part of a palatial 17th century complex of riads, the Karawan Riad...
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Riad Fes - $$$$$
At the edge of the medina, the Riad Fes is a Relais & Châteaux property with a...
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Palais Amani - $$$$$
The Palais Amani is a charming riad set just inside the medina, close to the Tannery Quarter,...
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Hotel Sahrai - $$$$$
On the site of a former colonial palace with views taking in the old medina, the Hotel Sahrai...
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| Two nights in Fes The city of Fes, Morocco’s second largest, is considered to be its cultural and religious capital and often referred to as the Mecca of the West. 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. It’s 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. The fresh air of the public Jnan Sbil Gardens connects the old medina to Fes el Jdid, or ‘New Fez’, the 13th century extension which contains the vast Royal Palace and the Mellah which was once home to some 250,000 Jews, many immigrants from Spain. Built by the French at the beginning of the 20th century, the Ville Nouvelle is the third and most modern of Fes’ districts. |
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| 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. |
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| Meknes and Volubilis tour Drive through miles of vineyards and olive groves to Meknes, one of Morocco's four imperial cities (along with Fes, Marrakesh and Rabat) to discover its grand past and expansive souks. The grand Bab Mansour gate and central square are must sees, as are the ruins of stables of 17th century king Moulay Ismail ibn Sharif's stables that once housed 12,000 stables. 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 before being the capital of the kingdom of Mauretania. Through olives and wine, it prospered under Roman rule from the 1st century AD and gained a number of major public buildings and fine town-houses with large mosaic floors. Falling to local tribes in 285, it remained habited for another seven centuries as a Latinised Christian community, then as an early Islamic settlement. By the 11th century Volubilis had been abandoned after the seat of power was relocated to Fes. |
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| 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. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Marrakesh |
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Days 3-6 |
Marrakesh |
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Accommodation in Marrakesh
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La Villa des Orangers - $$$$$
Behind a modest facade close to the Koutoubia Mosque and bustling Jemaa El Fna Square, what...
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La Sultana Marrakech - $$$$$
Inside the walls of Marrakesh’s medina, across the road from the Saadian and short walk from...
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Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech - $$$$$
A short way south east of the bustling medina, the Mandarin Oriental,
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La Mamounia - $$$$$
In an enviable location close to Marrakesh’s medina and Jemaa el Fna square, in the middle...
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Royal Mansour - $$$$$
On the eastern edge of Marrakesh’s historic medina, the Royal Mansour is a private enclave...
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Amanjena - $$$$$
Set in its own expanse of gardens, Amanjena’s architecture has been inspired by the...
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| Three nights in Marrakesh With its rich atmosphere, fascinating history and rich 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 market place square that hosts storytellers, musicians and performers in what is an unforgettable nightly spectacle. One the other side of the walls is the rest of the city, known as the Gueliz. The lavish El Badi, Bahia and Royal Palaces flank the kasbah, each wonderful examples of Berber design and craft. Also out here are wonderful gardens such as Yves Saint Lauren’s Jardin Majorelle and the sprawling Menara gardens set against the Atlas Mountains. |
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| Culinary tour of Jemaa el-Fnaa Meet your local insider guide and head to the magical medina of Marrakesh. Reach the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square to really feel the oriental wonders of this place. Your guide will awaken your five senses during this tour as you stop at the tastiest food stalls, visit olive and nut souks and sample local specialities. Moreover, you will see various artists ranging from snake charmers to acrobats which will make your first evening in Marrakesh an outstanding experience. |