Day 1 Sept 27
Salaam Aleikum! Welcome to Morocco
Our tour begins in Casablanca. The bustling port city of Casablanca is the economic capital of Morocco famous for its art deco French-colonial buildings, Mauresque government institutions, and old medina. We’ll gather in the late afternoon for a get-acquainted meeting and then enjoy our first Moroccan dinner together.
Hotel Idou Anfa (1 night)
Day 2 Hassan II
This morning after breakfast we will tour the mighty Hassan II Mosque. This impressive mosque, opened in 1993, is the third largest in the world after the great mosques of Saudi Arabia. Departing Casablanca, we’ll travel up the Atlantic coast and then east over the Rif mountains to Chefchaouen, known as “The Blue Pearl”.
Day 3 Walking Tour
Our day begins with a walking tour of this lovely town. Set against a gorgeous wide valley and surrounded by the stunning Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen will pleasantly take you by surprise. Its medina has been lovingly cared for and boasts unique blue and whitewashed houses, sloping red-tiled roofs, and artisan doorways. Much of Chefchaouen was created by Andalusian refugees escaping the Reconquista of Iberia and reminders of Spain are everywhere when exploring its cobblestone streets. It’s an evocative atmosphere and a wonderful place to slow down and enjoy the bohemian ambiance. A free afternoon is yours to do just that.
Dar Echaouen (2 nights)
Day 4 Volubilis Tour, Craft Demo
Today we travel to Fes via Ouazzan and the Roman site of Volubilis, once a provincial Roman capital. As we approach we can see its profile along the edge of a high plateau. Today it is the most impressive Roman ruin in Morocco and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. In the afternoon we continue on to Fes, pausing for a local pottery demonstration. Dinner tonight includes music.
Day 5 Walking Tour, Sunset drinks
Our activity today is a walking tour of Fez, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. It is vibrant, noisy, energetic, and fascinating. Although made up of three distinct ‘cities’, or quarters, today we head into the old city, known locally as Fes el Bali. Medieval Fes was a storied center of education and culture; both Islamic and Jewish. Its religious institutions and libraries were legendary and its mosques of great renown. Many Muslims and Jews expelled from Spain in 1492 were drawn here. As we walk through the streets and alleyways, passing historic khans, medrassas (religious schools), and dye-pits, it is not hard to imagine ourselves back in the Middle Ages. Our visit includes Medrasa Bouanania, the dye pits, and other craft neighborhoods. At the end of the afternoon, we will retreat to a terrace with a panoramic view of the Medina and enjoy a sunset drink.
Fes Heritage Boutique Hotel (2 nights)
Day 6 Travel Day
Today is a travel day. Leaving Fes we drive south, passing lovely scenery throughout the day. Our first stop will be Ifran, sometimes called “the Switzerland of Morocco.” Then we continue via Midlet and the Ziz Valley. During this journey we’ll experience glimpses of the Middle and High Atlas mountains and drive through the largest cedar forest in Morocco, stopping for panoramic views and passing Berber villages along the way. We’ll break up the day by stopping for lunch with a Moroccan family. In the afternoon the scenery changes to reveal the desert as we continue southeast, eventually arriving in Merzouga.
Kasbah Hotel Tomboucto (1 night)
Day 7 Desert Camp, Gnawa village visit, Oasis, Camel Trek
After breakfast in the riad we start an exploratory journey of the area. We will explore a local oasis to observe the workings of this desert lifeline. Next we’ll visit the Gnawa people, originally slaves brought from Sudan, to experience their music. Lunch today is Berber Pizza. In the afternoon we will mount camels and, guided by an experienced camel mahout, we explore the sand sea of Merzouga. The Erg Chebbi is a great expanse of shifting wind-swept sand that’s formed into picturesque undulating crests and valleys. Its towering dunes, some up to heights of 500 feet, are the most stunning in the country and a must see experience in Morocco. Our overnight desert camp is comfortable with private bathrooms and showers.
Desert Camp Madu (1 night)
Day 8 Travel Day
Today is another travel day as we motor west past ancient Kasbah ruins, austere mountains, and valleys of palm trees. We will pause for lunch before continuing to our final destination of Ait Benhaddou. You will have a free evening to relax and explore on your own.
Day 9 Ait Benhaddou, Lunch with family
Centuries ago, Ait Benhaddou was an important stop for caravans carrying salt across the Sahara. Today its grand kasbah, Morocco’s premier example of clay architecture, was used extensively in the filming of Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and other famous movies and has been listed as a World Heritage site. We will explore the site with our guide this morning and have lunch in a local family home.
Hotel Riad Ksar Ighenda (2 nights)
Day 10 Majorelle Gardens, Burber Museum, Jemaa el Fna
This morning we will drive through the winding roads of the Atlas, bound for Marrakesh, an ancient, exotic city wrapped in European modernity. The scenery is magnificent, and there will surely be calls for photo stops along the way. Upon arrival we’ll visit the tropical gardens of the French painter Jacques Majorelle. These magnificent gardens have become one of Merrakesh’s premier sights. In addition to the gardens we’ll visit the gem-like Berber museum. This evening we will head to the great square of Jemaa el Fna, one of the largest public spaces in the world and unique to Marrakesh. When night falls it transforms into a hive of activity with henna-painters, street performers, storytellers, and a street food bazaar packed with stalls loaded with Moroccan delicacies.
Day 11 Free day
Today is our vacation from our vacation. Marrakesh has many engaging activities to try. Or just relax in our comfortable riad. Optional activities include: Hot air balloon ride, Tagine cooking class, Merrakech street food tour, El Jadida or Essaouira excursions, bicycle tours, or a Hammam steam bath and massage.
Day 12 Medina Tour, Bahia Palace, Spice/Herb Vendor
We begin this day with a morning of exploring the old medina. Marrakesh is a feast for the senses. Be enticed by the scents, sounds, and scenes of the seemingly endless mosaic of souks. Each is devoted to a separate trade: pottery, woodwork, copper, leather, carpets, spices, and more. You’ll encounter the sounds of musicians, the aroma of delectable foods, and restful gardens. During our explorations we’ll visit a herb and spice vendor as well as the Palais Bahia - a fine example of Muslim architecture.
Riad La Cle D'Or (3 nights)
Day 13 Tour Over
Tour ends after breakfast. Imprint will assist with airport transfer arrangements.
[Hotels and tour activities are subject to change.]
Welcome. Welcome to Morocco" – this warm greeting, translated directly from Arabic, is what you’ll hear many times each day during your visit. It perfectly captures the genuine spirit of hospitality that defines this vibrant country. Morocco is an ideal non-Western destination for Americans, offering a unique blend of democratic values and a moderate Muslim culture. You’ll find evidence of the nation’s prosperity and progressive mindset everywhere you go, from its well-maintained infrastructure and cleanliness to the absence of the typical "hassle factor" often encountered in developing countries. Come and immerse yourself in the refreshing and welcoming atmosphere of Morocco.
Please note that all itinerary details and hotels are subject to change
Visa Requirements
Q: Do I need a visa in advance of arrival?
A: Visitor visas are acquired upon arrival. Free of charge.
Q: What should I expect after registering and paying the deposit for the tour?
A: You will receive a confirmation email welcoming you to the tour. This email will include a link to a Manage Booking page where you can view all your trip details, your deposit receipt, payment schedule, and information for purchasing travel insurance. Imprint Tours STRONGLY recommends purchasing trip insurance.
Q: Are flights included?
A: International Flights to/from the tour are NOT included.
Q: What airport do I use to join/depart the tour?
A: The tour starts in Casablanca (CMN) on Sept 28 (late afternoon) and ends in Marrakech (RAK) on Oct 10 (after breakfast).
Q: Can I skip breakfast on the final day and depart early that morning?
A: Yes, you are not obliged to partake of the final breakfast, nor will you miss any tour activities.
Q: Should I arrive early for the tour?
A: When you arrive is entirely up to you. Most Imprint travelers arrive 1 day early.
Q: Does Imprint provide or arrange airport transfers?
A: No, airport transfers are the traveler's responsibility to arrange. Basic information will be included in the 8-Week Letter.
Q: Does Imprint provide advice about airlines, routing, or booking?
A: No, Imprint does not provide these services.
Q: When should I book my flight?
A: Avoid booking flights before Jan 28, 2026 unless you confirm the tour status.
Q: Do I need to check the tour status after Jan 28?
A: No, if you have not received a cancellation notice from Imprint by Jan 28, you may assume the tour is a go.
Q: How do I avail the Early Pay Discount (EPD)?
A: To receive the $300 EPD, you must register for the EPD package and pay in full by the designated date. The payment system already reflects this discount. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding EPD as cancellation incurs a penalty.
Q: What should I do to prepare for the tour?
A: About 8 weeks before departure, you'll receive a detailed email with a packing list, sightseeing suggestions, and other important information. Meanwhile, ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the tour end date and has two clean pages for visa stamps.
Q: Since Imprint is unable to assist with pre- and post-tour hotel bookings, how do I book non-tour hotel nights?
A: For pre-tour nights, book at Hotel Idou Anfa. For post-tour nights, book at Riad la Cle D'Or. Bookings are under Intrepid Travel Morocco and Imprint Tours, standard rooms. Final hotel bookings with roster names will be made about 60 days prior to the tour start.
Q: If I need a complete list of tour hotels, where do I find that?
A: Hotels are listed in the itinerary section above.
Q: Will there be hair dryers available in the hotels?
A: Yes, hair dryers are available.
Q: Will there be opportunity to do laundry during the tour?
A: Yes, there are laundry facilities available.
Q: Are there any critical things I need to keep in mind?
A:
Print and keep the confirmation letter for reference.
If your passport will expire between now and 6 months beyond your intended departure from Morocco, it is your sole responsibility to update your registration information in We Travel. You can use the link in your confirmation email to return to your account to make edits. Imprint Tours is not responsible for reminding you to update your information nor for any problems with booking delays or mistakes due to incorrect passport data.
Add reid@imprinttours.com to your email address book.
Download & activate Whatsapp for essential on-tour communications.
Check your bank’s policy on international ATM withdrawal or Credit Card fees.
Q: What health precautions should I take?
A: Visit the CDC website or your local travel medicine clinic for suggested inoculations for Morocco. We cannot advise on inoculations due to liability concerns.
This tour involves moderate physical activity, including walking tours and excursions to natural sites with uneven terrain. Additionally, there are two long travel days. Participants should be in good health and capable of handling such activities.
Q: What mindset should I have for the tour?
A: Be flexible, respectrul, independent-minded, and personally responsible. Expect challenges and surprises, especially in less-developed areas. Positive, flexible attitudes contribute to a better group experience.
Q: Why is travel insurance important?
A: Travel insurance protects your investment against unforeseen events like flight delays, baggage loss, or sudden illness.
Trip cancellation insurance helps protect you and the investment you made in your trip when you travel. It provides pre-departure benefits in case you must cancel your trip before you have the chance to take it, and post-departure benefits such as travel delay, trip interruption, and emergency medical expenses to protect you while you are traveling. We recommend Trawick. For more than 25 years, Trawick International has been a trusted provider of international insurance, administration, and assistance services. Trawick International provides personalized service and trusted guidance. With 24/7 customer support and worldwide protection, you’ll have everything you need for everywhere you’ll go. We understand your plans can change quickly and unforeseen events could impact your travel plans. We feel it's important to consider purchasing a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment.
Comprehensive Travel Protection and Travel Medical Insurance Plans may provide coverage for:
· Trip Cancellation
· Trip Interruption
· Trip Delay
· Missed Connection
· Baggage Benefits
· Baggage and Personal Effects
· Baggage Delay
· Emergency Accident and Sickness
· Medical Expense
· Dental Expenses
· Emergency Evacuation
· Repatriation of Remains
· Accidental Death & Dismemberment
*Please make sure to read your specific plan document as coverage may vary depending on state and policy purchased.
For policy questions please call Trawick International’s 24/7 customer service team at 888-301-9289.
Worldwide Travel Assistance is available 24 hours a/ day, 7 days a week. Trawick International offers immediate online policy confirmation of coverage, personalized ID cards and plan documents. Our Global Response Center (GRC) is staffed by a diverse team of bilingual and multilingual professionals. Trawick Internationals Assistance Provider OnCall International can arrange access to over 180 written and spoken languages to ensure we can deliver clear, accurate, and culturally sensitive emergency response and assistance to travelers anywhere in the world, at any time.
Please Note: Full coverage terms and details, including exclusions and limitations, are contained in the insurance policy. Product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. Plan sold by Trawick International. Insurance is provided by either Technology Insurance Company or Wesco Insurance Company, an AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. company and non-insurance services by Trawick International. Limitations and exclusions apply. Trip cancelation plans are only valid for residents of the United States.
11 nights accommodation
All breakfasts, 5 dinners, and 5 lunches
Bus travel throughout the tour
All tips are included: tour manager, escort, local guides, drivers, group meals, hotel staffs
Full-time services of Moroccan tour manager, local guides
All entrance fees: Hassan II Mosque, Volubilis, Medrasa Bouanania, Bahia Palace, Majorelle Gardens, Berber Museum
Walking tours – Chefchaouen, Fez, Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, Marrakech; desert camel ride; Sunset drinks at Fes; Gnawa music; lunches with Moroccan families; and more.
Flights to and from our tours are NOT included
STRONGLY Recommended
Participants are responsible for obtaining a visitor visa
Participants are responsible for the cost of all drinks and free-time meals throughout the tour
Activities not listed in the itinerary, such as free-time sightseeing and activities
Expenditures of a personal nature
