Moroccan Explorer: Imperial Cities to Desert

Moroccan Explorer: Imperial Cities to Desert

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11 Days From

$3659

$3469

Moroccan Explorer: Imperial Cities to Desert

11 Days Starting and ending in Marrakech

Visiting: Marrakesh, Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fes, Erfoud, Erg Chebbi, Ouarzazate, Aït Benhaddou

Tour operator:

Cox & Kings

Recommended For:

Couples, Singles

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 18

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:
English
From:
$3659
$3469 (USD) including Flights from the UK Operator discount: -$190

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Explore the four imperial cities of Morocco: Fez, Rabat, Meknes and Marrakech – all former or current capitals of the country and known for their traditional architecture, maze-like medinas and vibrant souks. Along the way, travel through diverse landscapes, from the Atlantic coast through fertile plains to the Sahara desert.

Highlights

  • Explore the atmospheric Roman ruins of Volubilis & the town of Meknes

  • Stay in traditional riad accommodation in the medinas of Chefchaouen & Marrakech

  • Drink mint tea with a local nomad family and see the sun set over the dunes

  • Sample local food at the medina in Fez

  • Stay in 4-star accommodation

  • No single supplement on selected departure dates (limited availability)

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Fly To Marrakech

Location: Marrakesh

Accommodation Name: Le Meridien

Meals Included: No Meals

Fly from London (regional are connections available) to Marrakech with British Airways. Transfer to Le Meridien (or similar) for an overnight stay.

Day 2 : Marrakech - Rabat

Location: Rabat

Accommodation Name: Dar El Kebira Salam

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel to Rabat from Marrakech this morning after a leisurely breakfast. Afternoon tour of the city, including the Royal Palace, the 12th-century Hassan Tower with its mausoleum followed by a mint tea in the Andalucian gardens at Oudaya Kasbah. Stay for 1 night at Riad Dar El Kebira or Dar El Kebira Salam (or similar). (B, D)

Day 3 : Rabat - Chefchaouen

Location: Chefchaouen

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Dar Echchaouen Maison d'Hôtes & Riad

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel by road to the blue-walled town of Chefchaouen, perched beneath the rugged Rif mountains. Take a walking tour to discover the kasbah with its charming garden, then continue to the cobbled main square, Outa-el-Hammam square and admire the 15th-century Grand Mosque with its distinctive octagonal minaret. Stay overnight at Dar Echcahouen Hotel (or similar).

Day 4 : Volubilis - Meknes - Fez

Location: Fes

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Palais Ommeyad Suites & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Morning at leisure in Chefchaouen’s medina. Continue to Fez, stopping en route at the Roman ruins of Volubilis, which mark the westward extent of the Roman Empire, and the Unesco world heritage site of Meknes, now one of the quieter imperial cities but once the heart of the Moroccan sultanate. Spend 2 nights at the Palais Ommeyad & Spa (or similar).

Day 5 : Fez

Location: Fes

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Palais Ommeyad Suites & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Full-day tour of Fez, the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities. Visit the Bou Inania madrasa, the Nejjarine fountain, the souk, tanneries and medina. Visit a communal bakery and join a tasting tour through the medina.

Day 6 : Erfoud

Location: Erfoud

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hôtel Palais du Désert & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel to Erfoud on the edge of the Sahara desert, through the high plains between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas mountain ranges. Stop en route at Ifrane village for a walking tour. Continue to Erfoud and stay 2 nights at Palais du Desert & Spa (or similar).

Day 7 : Erg Chebbi

Location: Erg Chebbi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hôtel Palais du Désert & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Morning at leisure. This afternoon journey into the Sahara desert in 4x4 vehicles. Stop for a refreshing mint drink with a local Nomad family and see the sunset over the dunes before returning to your hotel this evening.

Day 8 : Ouarzazate

Location: Ouarzazate

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Ksar Ighnda

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel west to Ouarzazate with a photo stop at Todra gorge, an impressive orange-coloured canyon. Take a panoramic tour of Ouarzazate and stay overnight at Ksar Ighnda (or similar).

Day 9 : Ait Benhaddou - Marrakech

Location: Aït Benhaddou

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien N'Fis

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Depart for the fortified village of Ait Benhaddou, a superb example of traditional Moroccan earthen architecture. Scenes from the films Gladiator, Prince of Persia and The Jewel of the Nile were shot here. Arrive in Marrakech and visit the beautiful Jardin Majorelle to see the exotic plants before continuing to Le Meridien N'Fis (or similar) for a 2-night stay.

Day 10 : Marrakech

Location: Marrakesh

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien N'Fis

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Depart for the fortified village of Ait Benhaddou, a superb example of traditional Moroccan earthen architecture. Scenes from the films Gladiator, Prince of Persia and The Jewel of the Nile were shot here. Arrive in Marrakech and visit the beautiful Jardin Majorelle to see the exotic plants before continuing to Le Meridien N'Fis (or similar) for a 2-night stay.

Day 11 : Fly To London Via Casablanca

Location: Marrakesh

Meals Included: Breakfast

Transfer to the airport and fly to London, with British Airways.

What's Included

  • Small group size - average 10 people (max 18)

  • Flexible - extensions available

  • International flights with British Airways

  • Internal flights as specified

  • Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles

  • Experienced local tour manager

  • Guided sightseeing & entrance fees

  • Stay in 4- and 5-star accommodation

  • 10 breakfasts & 8 dinners

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • Country Entry Visas

Check out our Q&As

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    Yes. Quoted prices include all entrance fees.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes. We only work with passionate local guides who have a firm grasp of English – so they can answer all your questions and offer invaluable insight into your destination.

  • Can Cox & Kings arrange my visa?

    We cannot arrange your visa but we can recommend a reputable visa assistance company who can help with your application. Please contact your tour consultant for details.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    All Cox & Kings group tours have a maximum group size of 18 and average just 14 guests. Travelling in such a small group allows you to make stronger and deeper connections with fellow travellers.

  • Why do I have to pay more for my holiday if I am a single traveller?

    Most hotels around the world charge more per person for a single occupancy room than for a shared twin room, because the cost of maintaining a room for one person can be almost as high as it is for two. In addition, many single occupancy rooms are the same as twin / double rooms.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    All prices for Cox & Kings holidays include international flights, except where indicated. For all destinations, you may be able to arrange your own flights. If you wish to do so, the cost will be deducted from the tour price.

  • What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?

    If a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers, we will either offer for you to take your holiday on a private basis (which may involve a supplement), or you will be fully refunded.

  • What is the difference between a 'single' supplement and 'sole' supplement?

    A 'single' traveller is someone occupying a single room while travelling with one or more other people, for example a single person travelling on a group tour. A 'sole' traveller is someone travelling on their own. As a single traveller on a group tour (except those in the SoloTravellers collection), please check the single supplement price. If you wish to add an extension to that tour, please th

  • When will I get my tickets?

    Travel documents will be sent approximately two weeks prior to departure (third party suppliers' policies may vary), unless your booking is made within six weeks of departure, in which case final documents will be sent as soon as possible.

  • When do I need to pay my final balance?

    Final payment must be made no less than 75 days before departure.

  • Do your prices include flights?

    All prices for Cox & Kings holidays include international flights, except where indicated. Australasia and Canada holidays do not include international flights so that you may benefit from the best prices at the time you choose to book, taking advantage of major seasonal variations and short term special offers. For all destinations, you may be able to arrange your own flights. If you wish to do

  • What is a non-exclusive escorted group tour?

    The vast majority of our group tours are exclusive to Cox & Kings clients. However, there are a few exceptions where holidaymakers who booked their tour with another travel company travel in the group.

  • When will I get a detailed itinerary?

    If you are travelling on a group tour, you will receive a detailed itinerary with your travel pack. If travelling on a private basis, you will receive your detailed itinerary with your confirmation invoice.

  • What are the four tour categories

    ***LUXURY These are our most comfortable tours and will usually feature 5-star deluxe accommodation throughout*** ***SUPERIOR Most Cox & Kings tours fall under this category and are based in 4- or 5-star accommodation where available, or the best alternative elsewhere*** ***STANDARD Simpler in emphasis, these itineraries typically feature 4-star or good 3-star accommodation throughout, or the best alternative elsewhere*** ***DISCOVERY Best suited to the hardier traveller, these tours typically include some quite basic accommodation, possibly longer and rougher road journeys and, in some cases, more strenuous activities, such as trekking***

  • Do I need inoculations?

    Many of our destinations have recommended health precautions, which you can read about in our regional documents and health pages. However, we recommend that you contact your doctor who will be able to give you professional advice, arrange any vaccinations and give advice on malaria protection. Alternatively, visit the NHS website for more information.

  • What happens if a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers? Will it be cancelled?

    If a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers, we will either offer for you to take your holiday on a private basis (which may involve a supplement), or you will be fully refunded.

Reviews from Travellers on this Tour

Suzie  

Delighted Customers!

My partner and myself have been regular travellers

My partner and myself have been regular travellers for over 20 years and up to now been loyal to a rival company. After an incident with them, we decided to change loyalty and try C&K. Was absolutely a good move. For the past couple years I have spoken to Sabastian Gittany, what a delight to be able to speak to the same consultant! I was immediately impressed with the service, he was extremely helpful, polite and nothing is too much trouble. Sabastian has an immense knowledge through his own travel experiences, which in turn helped us to ensure we booked the right holiday for us. As a result of the excellent service we received from Sabastian we have booked 4 holidays for 2022, the first being Egypt Nile Cruise, which he tailored and with lots discussions finally created an itinerary for us, so we are delighted.

Yvonne  

Great itinerary and great service

Great itinerary and great service from Cox & Kings

Great itinerary and great service from Cox & Kings. I will definitely use them in the future.

Haig  

Exceptional Service

I have frequently used Cox and Kings and they neve

I have frequently used Cox and Kings and they never disappoint. They organise whatever I want and the great thing about their group tours is that they always include some free time. Other companies tend to pack far too much in to their schedules. I have found everyone I have ever dealt with keen to provide the best possible service.

Paul  

A Relaxed Way to Book a Holiday

Sue and I have travelled with Cox & Kings a number

Sue and I have travelled with Cox & Kings a number of times and have always booked direct with them. For this latest trip, I again contacted them direct and spoke to their travel advisor for the chosen area for a tailor-made holiday. I found him empathetic, knowledgeable and understanding of my requirements. An initial itinerary was prepared which after due consideration and discussion was cheerfully amended and agreed on. There was no pressure put on me and I found it, as usual, a good experience. Holiday now booked and I am looking forward to the trip.

Jessica  

Knowledgeable Staff and Excellent Service

Knowledgeable staff and excellent service that 'go

Knowledgeable staff and excellent service that 'goes the extra mile'. I have been on several holidays through Cox and Kings over the last 20 years and have always been more than satisfied.

Dates & Availability

Friday - Monday

May 17, 2024 - May 27, 2024
$3406 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Sold Out
Instant Booking Available

Friday - Monday

Sep 13, 2024 - Sep 23, 2024
$3659 $3469 (USD)

Operator discount: -$190 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Monday

Sep 27, 2024 - Oct 07, 2024
$3659 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Sold Out
Instant Booking Available

Friday - Monday

Oct 04, 2024 - Oct 14, 2024
$3532 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Friday - Monday

Feb 28, 2025 - Mar 10, 2025
$3722 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Thursday - Sunday

Mar 06, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025
$3785 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Friday - Monday

Apr 25, 2025 - May 05, 2025
$3785 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Friday - Monday

May 16, 2025 - May 26, 2025
$3532 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Friday - Monday

Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 22, 2025
$3785 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Friday - Monday

Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 06, 2025
$3785 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Friday - Monday

Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025
$3785 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Cox & Kings requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cox & kings charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.