Private Grand Tour of Morocco

Taking a comprehensive tour of Morocco can feel overwhelming—there’s so much to see, do, and taste. That’s where a well-organized private tour like SaharaTrek’s 12-day Grand Tour steps in, promising not just seamless logistics but also a chance to experience Morocco’s highlights without the hassle. While we haven’t personally traveled this route, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest this is an adventure packed with culture, breathtaking scenery, and expert guidance.

What we love about this tour? First, the careful balance between guided experiences and free exploration—it means you’re not just seeing sites but living them. Second, the authentic accommodations like Riads in Marrakech and Fez offer not just comfort but a taste of local life. Third, the attention to detail and responsiveness from the team, especially Luiza, make planning stress-free even from afar. The main consideration? Its price point of around $2,471 per person might seem high to some, but the value packed into this itinerary is substantial. This tour suits travelers who want a thorough, curated experience with plenty of expert insights and private transport.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: Guided tours, accommodations, and most admissions are covered, making the trip straightforward.
• Authentic stays: Riads and boutique hotels ensure a genuine Moroccan experience.
• Diverse highlights: From coastal towns to desert dunes, the itinerary is a full-spectrum Morocco experience.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides like Aziz and Mohammed enhance your understanding of each site.
• Flexibility and free time: Some reviews highlight the mix of scheduled activities with personal exploration.
• Potential cost consideration: While the tour offers excellent value, it’s a premium experience suited for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting in Casablanca & El Jadida

The journey begins with a 2-hour drive from Casablanca’s airport to El Jadida, a city with a Portuguese-built fortress that’s preserved remarkably well. Visitors often comment on the “relatively untouched” streets and the underground cistern, famously featured in movies. The admission is free, but exploring the underground cistern is a highlight—many reviewers mention the cool, atmospheric descent into this hidden chamber. It feels like stepping into a film set.

Moving south to Essaouira

After soaking in the history, it’s a 4-hour drive to Essaouira, a laid-back fishing port famous for its medina and breezy coast. Staying at Riad Mimouna in the heart of the old city means you’re right in the thick of local life. Reviewers note the vibrant street scenes, with food vendors filling the air with aromas of fresh seafood, and the winding streets begging for wandering. Exploring at sunrise reveals a different, quieter side—”the city takes on a new vibrancy,” as one reviewer put it. The port is lively, and vendors are eager to serve fresh fish and shellfish.

Marrakech’s Buzz

From Essaouira, it’s a 3-hour scenic drive to Marrakech, where the energy is palpable. Staying at Riad Azoulay in the Medina offers an authentic Moroccan stay. Evenings at Jemaa el-Fnaa are unforgettable—food stalls, musicians, and storytellers create a lively, otherworldly atmosphere. Reviewers describe the square as “the center of Morocco’s chaos and charm,” and many appreciate the opportunity to experience it without feeling overwhelmed.

Marrakech’s Cultural Gems

The next day kicks off with a 4-hour guided tour of Marrakech’s main sights. From the Saadian Tombs to the Madrasa, you’ll see restored palaces and ancient ruins that tell stories of long-gone empires. Guides like Aziz are praised for their knowledge, making the history and significance come alive. The walking tour offers a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells—think spices, leather, and street performers.

The High Atlas & Aït Ben Haddou

Leaving Marrakech, the tour climbs the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass—a highlight in itself. The road is filled with switchbacks, and the vistas are impressive. Many reviewers mention how this drive reveals Morocco’s contrasting landscapes—mountains give way to the desert. At Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you walk through a centuries-old fortress once central to trans-Saharan trade routes. Climbing the narrow streets provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valley below.

Ouarzazate & Skoura

Just a short drive away is Atlas Studios, where numerous movies have been shot. Movie buffs get a kick from exploring the backlots that mimic ancient Rome, Egypt, and even China. This mixing of Hollywood and history adds a fun dimension to the tour. Spending the night in Skoura offers a tranquil break, with reviews noting the charm of its old kasbahs and peaceful ambiance.

Into the Sahara at Erg Chebbi

The desert section begins with a drive into the Sahara’s edge at Erg Chebbi. The accommodation, Auberge Dunes D’or, is often praised for its simplicity and authenticity. The camel ride into the dunes at sunset is a classic, and many travelers highlight the gentle sway of the camels and the surreal colors of the shifting sands. Watching the sunset on the dunes is described as “a moment you’ll never forget,” with some reviewers saying it’s worth the early wake-up.

Transition to Fez

After desert life, the journey continues northward into Fez, a city that many describe as the spiritual heart of Morocco. The drive takes around 10 hours, passing through cedar forests and mountain landscapes. Staying at Riad el Yacout in the Medina means you’re immersed in a labyrinth of narrow streets and historic sights. The city’s atmosphere is more subdued than Marrakech but equally captivating, especially the vibrant souks and ancient madrassas.

Exploring Fez’s Medina

The guided walking tour through Fez’s Medina is a highlight, with guides like Mohammed sharing insights into its maze-like streets. Reviewers love the mix of craft markets, metalworkers, and weavers, all in a setting that feels frozen in time. The maze-like layout can be daunting, but guided navigation ensures you won’t miss the hidden gems.

Roman Ruins at Volubilis & Meknes

A day trip from Fez takes you to Volubilis, with its well-preserved Roman ruins. Many mention the value of the included admission, allowing a self-guided exploration of mosaics, basilicas, and baths. Nearby, Meknes offers more history with sites like the Heri es Souani granaries and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Reviewers appreciate the chance to see Morocco’s imperial history in a smaller setting.

Chefchaouen & Northern Charm

The journey then heads northeast to Chefchaouen, famous for its blue-washed streets. Staying in a local Riad, travelers often comment on how relaxing and photogenic the town is—”every corner feels like a postcard.” The quiet streets and mountain backdrop provide a perfect break from the busier cities.

Coastal & Border Towns

Finally, the trip touches Tangier and the Atlantic coast, with visits to Cap Spartel and Hercules Caves. The scenery here is dramatic, and reviewers note the sense of standing at where the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet. The last stop is Rabat, the capital, where sites like the Hassan Tower and Royal Tombs close the journey with a look at Morocco’s modern political heart.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Authentic accommodations in Riads and boutique hotels provide a taste of Moroccan hospitality and style. Many reviews praise the comfortable, well-located stays which make exploring easier.

Expert guides like Aziz, Mohammed, and others are frequently highlighted for their passion and knowledge, enriching each site with stories and historical context that make the experience more meaningful.

The diverse landscapes—from coastal towns and mountains to deserts—offer a visual feast, making the journey more than just a sightseeing tour. Travelers often comment on the stunning views from the Tizi-n-Tichka pass and the ever-changing colors of the Sahara dunes.

Balanced pacing is another key point. The itinerary offers enough scheduled activities to feel fulfilling without being rushed, plus free time in cities like Marrakech and Chefchaouen to wander and soak up the atmosphere at leisure.

Practical Considerations

The price of around $2,471 per person might seem steep, but when you consider all accommodations, guided tours, most admissions, and private transport, it’s a package designed for convenience and comfort. Many reviewers mention how the details—like reliable drivers and responsive planning—make the difference between an average trip and a memorable adventure.

The group size being private means you get a personalized experience, tailored to your interests. The daily breakfast and some dinners included also add value, saving you from hurried meals or tourist-priced eateries.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Morocco without the stress of planning. It suits those with a moderate physical fitness level, as walking and bus travel are involved, but not overly strenuous. If you appreciate authentic stays, expert guides, and diverse scenery, this tour offers a well-rounded and immersive Moroccan adventure.

It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking for a personalized, hassle-free way to see the highlights. Budget-conscious travelers might find it a bit costly, but most agree the convenience and quality deliver excellent value.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable with walking and some moderate physical activity, this tour suits families, couples, and mature travelers alike.

Are flights included?
No, flights are not part of the package. You’ll need to arrange your own international flights to Casablanca.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
Expect Jr. Suite style stays in Riads and boutique hotels, offering a mix of comfort and Moroccan charm.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included daily, with some dinners also covered. Other meals are at your discretion, often in local restaurants or food stalls.

How long is the driving between destinations?
Driving times vary—around 2 hours from Casablanca to El Jadida, 4 hours to Essaouira, and long transfers like nearly 10 hours from Sahara to Fez. The schedule allows you to enjoy the scenery and rest.

Is the tour customizable?
While the itinerary is fixed, the private nature allows some flexibility, and many reviewers mention the helpfulness of the SaharaTrek team in tailoring the experience.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Most reviews highlight tours in spring or autumn when the weather is milder, but specific dates aren’t provided.

Are guided tours included at all sites?
Yes, most major sites like Aït Ben Haddou, Atlas Studios, and Fez are accompanied by guides to enhance your understanding.

What should I pack?
Comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing for day, warmer layers for the mountains and desert evenings, and sun protection are recommended.

Is there any free time?
Absolutely, many days include free evenings or mornings for personal exploration, allowing you to relax and soak in local life.

To sum it up, SaharaTrek’s 12-day Private Grand Tour of Morocco offers a thoughtfully curated journey through the country’s most iconic sights, blending guided experiences with personal discovery. It’s a solid choice for those who value comfort, expert guidance, and a rundown of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Though the price may give some pause, the depth of experience and the seamless organization make it a worthwhile investment for a trip of a lifetime.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers seeking a balance of guided learning and free exploration, with a penchant for authentic stays and stunning scenery. If you’re ready for an adventure that covers the country’s highlights without the hassle of logistics, this tour delivers on all fronts.