Prepare for a true sensory immersion in Fes el Bali, the world's largest car-free urban area and the spiritual heart of Morocco. Our guided tour takes us deep into the labyrinthine alleyways. We explore the Al-Qarawiyyin University, the world’s oldest continually operating university, and the intricate craftsmanship of the Attarine Medersa. We witness the vibrant, multi-hued spectacle of the Chouara Tanneries (be sure to grab your mint!), visit the revered Moulay Idriss Mausoleum, and discover the historical and architectural secrets of the Jewish Quarter (Mellah). This full day ensures a complete immersion in the rich culture and timeless traditions of Fes.

A day of spectacular geographic contrast begins as we venture south through the Middle Atlas Mountains. We pass through Ifrane, known as "Morocco's Switzerland," and traverse lush cedar forests, where we often pause to spot the native Barbary Apes. We enjoy a relaxing, scenic lunch near the high-altitude town of Midelt. As the day progresses, the landscape dramatically shifts. We descend into the vast, stunning Ziz Valley, where millions of date palm groves carpet the earth, marking our approach to the desert. We arrive in the gateway town of Erfoud in the late afternoon.

Our final approach to the Sahara begins by exploring the unique history of the region. We tour the holy city of Rissani and the ancient Ksar Abbar ruins. We then visit Khamlia village, famous for its inhabitants who migrated from sub-Saharan Africa, where we enjoy a captivating performance of Gnawa spiritual music. After reaching Merzouga, the real adventure begins. As the sun starts its descent, we mount our camels for a serene trek through the colossal Erg Chebbi dunes. The silence is profound as the dunes glow in shifting shades of gold and amber. We arrive at our luxury desert camp just in time for a traditional Berber dinner under an impossibly bright blanket of stars.

An early start is rewarded with a stunning Sahara sunrise—a truly unforgettable moment. After breakfast, we return by camel or 4x4 to meet our driver. Our journey continues westward on the famous "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs." Our first major stop is the breathtaking Todra Gorge, where immense, 300-meter-high canyon walls loom overhead. We take time to walk through the cool gorge and observe the picturesque Berber villages along the way. We pass through Tinjdad before continuing to the Dades Gorge, known for its dramatic rock formations and the winding river road, where we settle in for the night.

Today is a showcase of Morocco's stunning diversity. We drive through the tranquil oasis of Skoura and the famous film city of Ouarzazate (known as the "Hollywood of Africa"). Our highlight is a tour of the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient fortified mud-brick village (ksar) that has served as a setting for major films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After lunch, we ascend the Tizi Ntichka Pass, the highest major mountain pass in North Africa, offering breathtaking, panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains landscape before descending into the vibrant plain and the "Red City" of Marrakech.