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Home| Experiences| Contiki Group Tours| Morocco|Moroccan Palaces, Markets, & Desert Tour

10 Day Moroccan Palaces, Markets, & Desert Group Tour From $2583pp

Get ready for an epic 10 day group journey through Morocco’s buzzing souks, spice-filled streets, and breathtaking desert landscapes.

Dive into the chaos of Marrakesh’s medinas, soak up the history of Casablanca and Rabat, and venture deep into the Sahara for a night under the stars with a traditional Berber feast. Visit Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Morocco’s largest Roman archaeological attraction, and take part in an authentic Beber tea ceremony. From colourful markets and ancient palaces to rolling sand dunes and vibrant city squares, this adventure is packed with culture, adventure, and unforgettable moments from start to finish.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Start in Marrakesh

Arrive in the vibrant city of Marrakesh, a sensory explosion of colours, scents, and sounds. Known as the gateway to Morocco, this city is famous for its busy souks, intricate palaces, and lively squares. After meeting your Morocco travel group, enjoy an authentic North African dinner filled with aromatic spices in preparation for an exciting adventure ahead.

Accommodation: Hotel El Andalous (or similar) | Marrakesh
Included Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Marrakesh to Casablanca

Start the day with a sightseeing tour of Marrakesh, exploring iconic landmarks such as the Koutoubia Mosque, Jemaa El-Fna, and the stunning Bahia Palace (optional add-on). After experiencing the energy of the city, travel to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest metropolis and a place of Hollywood fame. Stroll along the scenic Corniche, soaking up coastal views as the sun sets over the Atlantic Ocean.

Accommodation: Hotel Diwan (or similar) | Casablanca
Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Casablanca, Rabat & Chefchaouen

Discover Casablanca’s striking architecture, including the awe-inspiring Hassan II Mosque, Africa’s largest functioning mosque. Continue the journey to Rabat, the capital of Morocco, to visit architectural wonders such as the Mohammed V Mausoleum, Hassan Tower, and the grand Royal Palace. From there, travel to Chefchaouen, the world-famous “Blue City,” where picturesque streets, vibrant souks, and historic sites like Place Outa Hamam and the Kasbah create an unforgettable scene.

Accommodation: Hotel Madrid (or similar) | Chefchaouen
Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 4: Chefchaouen, Volubilis & Fes

Depart Chefchaouen and travel towards Fes, stopping at the ancient ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Morocco’s largest Roman archaeological attraction. Walk through centuries-old mosaics, temples, and columns with a knowledgeable local guide. Continue the journey through the Rif Mountains, reaching Fes, the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, just in time to settle in before a full day of exploration.

Accommodation: Hotel Arena (or similar) | Fes
Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: Explore Fes

Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city, is a labyrinth of history and culture. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Medina, home to traditional tanneries, ancient madrasas, and bustling souks. Learn about traditional Moroccan crafts, including carpet weaving and intricate tilework, before an optional evening feast featuring authentic Moroccan cuisine and live entertainment.

Accommodation: Hotel Arena (or similar) | Fes
Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 6: Fes to Erfoud

Journey through the stunning landscapes of the Middle Atlas and High Atlas Mountains, passing through picturesque towns like Ifrane and Midelt. These mountain villages, often called “Little Switzerland,” offer breathtaking scenery and a refreshing change of pace. Arrive in Erfoud, an oasis town on the edge of the Sahara Desert, and enjoy a delicious dinner before the next leg of the adventure.

Accommodation: Kasbah Tizimi Hotel (or similar) | Erfoud
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Erfoud, Rissani & Merzouga

Experience authentic Berber hospitality with a traditional home visit in Erfoud, complete with a Moroccan mint tea ceremony. Travel to Rissani for a relaxing lunch and optional swim before heading to Merzouga, your gateway to the vast Sahara Desert. Choose from thrilling activities such as sandboarding, dune buggies, or a visit to the Berber Music Center. As evening falls, embark on a camel trek into the dunes, witnessing a breathtaking desert sunset before a traditional Berber feast in a luxury tented camp.

Accommodation: Auberge La Caravane (or similar) | Merzouga
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Merzouga, Todra Gorge & Ouarzazate

Depart the Sahara and drive the legendary “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” stopping for lunch in the lush oasis of Tinghir. Arrive at Todra Gorge, where dramatic rock walls rise over 150 meters, offering opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and cultural encounters at the Date Palmerie and a local women’s cooperative. Continue to Ouarzazate for the night, a city famed for its role in films like Gladiator and Kingdom of Heaven.

Accommodation: Les Jardin De Ouarzazate (or similar) | Ouarzazate
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9: Ouarzazate to Marrakesh

Begin the final leg of the journey with a visit to a traditional argan oil cooperative, where local artisans demonstrate the production of Morocco’s prized beauty oil – a sustainable initiative supporting local women. Return to Marrakesh for a chance to immerse in Moroccan culture through a hands-on cooking class with a local family or a relaxing Hammam spa experience.

Accommodation: Hotel El Andalous (or similar) | Marrakesh
Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 10: Finish in Marrakesh

After an unforgettable journey through Morocco’s most captivating cities, landscapes, and cultural experiences, it’s time to say farewell. Enjoy a final breakfast before departure, leaving with incredible memories and a newfound appreciation for the magic of Morocco.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions & Extras

Included

  • 10 day Morocco group tour
  • 9 nights accommodation
  • 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
  • Coach transport
  • Group of up to 24 pax
  • Expert trip manager, driver team, & local guides
  • 2 nights Marrakesh
  • 1 night Casablanca
  • 1 night Chefchaouen
  • 2 nights Fes
  • 1 night Erfoud
  • 1 night Merzouga
  • 1 night Ouarzazate
  • Marrakesh guided tour
  • Rabat landmarks
  • Chefchaouen guided tour
  • Volubilis tour
  • Fes guided tour
  • Desert camel trek
  • Berber Tea ceremony experience
  • Women’s cooperative experience
  • Argan oil co-op experience​
  • Jemaa El-Fna square visit

Excluded

  • Any meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Additional activities
  • Personal expenses
  • Flights to/from Morocco
  • Travel insurance

Tour Type & Availability

10 Day Moroccan Palaces, Markets, & Desert Group Tour

$2,583.00
Informative Trip Manager, Local Guides, All Accommodation, Transport, Some Meals & Activities

What to bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes with good traction
  • Teva-style sandals (thongs or flip-flop sandals are not suitable for hikes)
  • Swimming (bathing) suit & towel
  • Light to medium fleece jacket
  • Gore-Tex (or similar) rain jacket
  • Shorts, T-shirts, Long pants, Long-sleeve shirt, Hat or cap
  • Sunglasses (preferably polarised)
  • Socks (athletic style socks for walking & hiking)
  • First aid & medication
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Passport
  • Travel insurance documents

Pick Ups & Departures

This tour begins and ends in Marrakesh.

Supplier Terms & Conditions

Contiki Terms & Conditions

Supplier cancellation and refund policy:
Refunds will be processed according to the following time frames:

Cancellations between 1-7 days incur a 75% fee.

Between 8-21 days incur a 50% fee.

Between 22-59 days incur a 25% fee.

Cancellations 60 days and over you can transfer your deposit to another trip for free with FlexDeposit.

Please see our Terms and Conditions page for Happy Travels specific cancellation and refund policy.

Frequently asked questions

What is the weather like in Morocco?

Morocco’s climate varies greatly depending on the region and season. Coastal cities like Casablanca and Essaouira enjoy mild temperatures year-round, ranging from 16–25°C (61–77°F), with occasional winter rain. Inland areas, such as Marrakech, experience hot summers exceeding 40°C (104°F) and cooler winters with temperatures dropping to 6°C (43°F) at night. Meanwhile, the Sahara Desert has extreme temperature shifts – hot and dry during the day but significantly cooler at night. The best times to visit Morocco for comfortable weather are during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November).

Is Morocco safe to travel?

Yes, Morocco is generally safe for travellers, but as with any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing in busy areas like markets and medinas, can happen. To stay safe:

Stick to well-travelled areas and avoid walking alone at night in quiet streets.
Be mindful of scams in tourist spots and always agree on taxi fares before getting in.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas to respect local customs.
Follow travel advisories and be aware of any regional warnings.

Morocco is a welcoming and vibrant destination, and by taking basic precautions, you’ll have an amazing experience!

What’s included in this tour?

Included in the cost are essential travel elements such as accommodation, transport, and meals (breakfast is typically offered daily, along with selected authentic meals). Included Experiences feature must-see attractions and activities. You’ll also benefit from expert Contiki staff support throughout the trip. Special requests, such as birthdays or proposals, can often be accommodated with prior communication.

What’s not included?

Contiki trips offer a great degree of flexibility so certain elements are not included in the base price. Flights to and from the trip’s starting and ending points must be arranged separately. Some experiences and activities require additional costs and are available as Free Time Add-Ons. Meals outside of included options and travel insurance are also not covered.

Which currency should I bring?️

You’ll need to bring cash in Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) for everyday expenses. While Euros (€) and US Dollars ($) are accepted in some tourist areas, local markets and smaller vendors prefer Dirhams. ATMs are widely available in cities, so you can withdraw cash as needed. We also recommend bringing a Visa or MasterCard for larger purchases and emergencies, as American Express and Discover cards are not widely accepted.

How many other travellers are on each trip?

Group sizes vary depending on the destination. In regions like Africa, groups may consist of 12 to 30 travellers, with smaller optional day tours capping at around 16, guided by a local host.

What is the role of the Trip Manager?

The Trip Manager is responsible for organising the trip and providing essential information, fun facts, and local food recommendations. They ensure the trip runs smoothly, addressing any concerns or issues. The Trip Manager also offers cultural and historical insights, delivering informal talks when relevant.

What is Contiki?

Contiki are leaders in organised youth travel, offering incredible travel experiences for young people between 18 and 35 years old since 1962. With over 60 years of expertise, Contiki specialises in creating memorable, social, and immersive journeys. The brand focuses on two core values: “Make Every Moment Count” and “We’re About People”. The “Travel Together” philosophy embodies the spirit of shared travel experiences, connecting people with destinations, cultures, and the environment in meaningful ways.

Why focus on 18-35 year-olds?

Contiki tailors travel experiences specifically for 18-35-year-olds, ensuring fun, dynamic itineraries that bring together like-minded people. This age range fosters connections that feel instant, creating a social travel environment that blends adventure and new friendships.

How does the travel experience work?

Contiki revolutionises hassle-free travel. From solo adventurers to groups, every trip is meticulously planned, ensuring that every detail, from accommodation to transport, is taken care of. This allows travellers to enjoy stress-free experiences, while adding personalised activities during their free time. Each journey is led by an expert Trip Manager who provides hands-on support, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

What are Contiki’s sustainability credentials?

Contiki is committed to sustainable travel practices, working towards a low-carbon future with its four-point Climate Action Plan. Since 2022, all Contiki trips are carbon natural, contributing to environmental sustainability. The company is on a journey to Net Zero, prioritizing carbon reductions and supporting environmentally conscious travel.

Do I need travel insurance?

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all Contiki tours, covering cancellation, medical expenses, personal injury, loss of property, and adventure activities. It’s essential to ensure the policy covers all the activities included in the trip.

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

We endorse the recommendation of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that all travellers take out travel insurance. If you already have Travel Insurance please understand that it is your responsibility to ensure that your Travel Insurance covers you for all of the adventure style travel you have booked with us.

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Moroccan Palaces, Markets, & Desert Tour

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The best 10 day Moroccan Palaces, Markets, & Desert Tour with visits to Casablanca, Marrakesh, and a camel ride through the Sahara Desert.

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