Enchanting to the end
Commencing in Rabat we will travel directly to the UNESCO World Heritage listed city of Fès, where we will be transported back to medieval times as we stroll through the labyrinthine alleyways of the 1200-year-old Medina and explore this eclectic city and its surrounds. Travelling south we’ll sink into sands of the Sahara Desert, riding on camels, off roading in a thrilling four-wheel drive experience, and sleeping in a luxury tented camp beneath an inky, star-filled sky. The atmosphere of the desert at night is every bit as enchanting as you imagine. Rounding out our journey in Marrakech we will indulge in the diverse cultural influences that have shaped this fascinating country – learning to cook authentic cuisine, shopping our way through the souks, strolling through the Majorelle gardens and spending time with the Berber people in the High Atlas Mountains.
Enjoying a combination of the very best riads, hotels and luxury camps along the way, this is your chance to lose yourself in the ancient cultures and shifting sands of Al Maghrib, the ancient Arabic name for Morocco, meaning “far west where the sun sets.”
You will love
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Rich and diverse history
- Fascinating culture & cuisine
- Incredible, other-worldly landscapes
- Retail therapy at its best
- Small group departure hosted by Sarah Hoyland
- Optional extension to Tunisia
14 ENCHANTING DAYS
DAY 1 | SAT 17 OCTOBER | Arrive Rabat
Welcome to Morocco. On arrival at Casablanca airport you will be met in arrivals and driven to Rabat (approx. 1 hr) to settle into Riad Dar Shâan. Depending on your arrival time, we will head out to visit the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas, enjoying a mint tea at Café Maure before returning to our riad for a hosted, welcome dinner.
Accommodation: Riad Dar Shâan
DAY 2 | SUN 18 OCTOBER | Fès
After a morning visit to view the highlights of Rabat, followed by lunch we will drive to the Imperial city of Fès often referred to as the cradle of Moroccan culture for its role in preserving rich traditions and craftsmanship within its ancient medina. Check in to Barceló Fès Medina for some time at leisure before dinner.
Accommodation: Barceló Fès Medina – 3 nights including breakfast
DAY 3 | MON 19 OCTOBER | Fès
Step out today for a private walking tour of the medieval Medina of Fès.
Entering the souks of Fès is like stepping back in time. The narrow streets twist and turn like a maze, with stores and shops lining the tangle of alleyways. Covering one of the world’s largest car-free areas, the cacophony of sounds, blend of unknown aromas, rich colours, and thronging crowd of people is intoxicating!
Our escorted walking tour will take us along the labyrinth of paths and alleyways to old mosques amongst stores and markets filled with shoppers, donkeys, and people going about their daily routines. We will observe communal bread ovens and have the opportunity to sample a vast selection of olives, dates, pastries, fruits, and other typically Moroccan flavours while visiting all of the historic sites within the walls of this ancient city.
DAY 4 | TUES 20 OCTOBER | Fès
Today we will visit the former Imperial City of Meknes, Moulay Idriss and Roman ruins at the World Heritage Site of Volubilis – a significant Roman city where the foundations and mosaics of large Roman villas, many featuring atriums and gardens similar to Moroccan riads, are still visible. Returning to our hotel we will have time to relax and take a dip in the pool before preparing for dinner at the beautiful Riad Masion Blue.
DAY 5 | WEDS 21 OCTOBER | Merzouga
Depart Fès this morning and hit the road for Midelt, set in the high plains between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas mountain ranges, then Errachidia, known as the gateway to the desert with the palm-filled Ziz Valley and authentic glimpses into traditional Berber life.
Arriving in Merzouga, you will feel as though you’ve been transported into a magical, biblical land, as you climb aboard your camel for a ride into the desert, and dine by soft lamp light to live Gnawa music. Sink into your feather-soft bed under luxuriant canvas and absorb the electric silence of the desert at night. Simply stunning!
Accommodation: Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp – 1 night including breakfast
DAY 6 | THURS 22 OCTOBER | Merzouga
Hold on to your hats and get ready for an adrenaline-filled adventure as we explore the golden sand dunes of Merzouga on a thrilling half-day four-wheel drive off-road experience! You will experience a second luxury tented desert camp tonight, Auberge Café du Sud, where spacious tents are designed with traditional Moroccan flair, and the extraordinary clarity of the sky offers some of the best stargazing opportunities you will ever encounter.
Accommodation: Auberge Café du Sud – 1 night including breakfast
DAY 7 | FRI 23 OCTOBER | Ouarzazate
After breakfast we depart for Ouarzazate, Morocco’s “Hollywood of the Desert,” where ancient kasbahs meet epic landscapes and world-famous film sets. En route we will enjoy lunch with a local family in Tinghir and stop to drink in the cool shade and scenic beauty of the Todra Gorge.
Accommodation: Dar Chamaa – 2 nights including breakfast
DAY 8 | SAT 24 OCTOBER | Ouarzazate
We’ll take some time today to relax and our graceful kasbah-inspired hotel, or explore the local area under your own steam if you wish. From the hotel, you are perfectly placed to explore the cinematic landscapes that have made the region famous.
DAY 9 | SUN 25 OCTOBER | Marrakech
This morning we visit the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou, a striking fortress of earthen clay along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. From here we will cross over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi’n’Tichka Pass, before descending into Marrakech by late afternoon.
Dinner will be at our hotel tonight.
Accommodation: Riad XO – 5 nights including breakfast
DAY 10 | MON 26 OCTOBER | Marrakech
After breakfast we set off on a walking tour of Marrakech to take in the famous Koutoubia Minaret, the 12th-century Kasbah (fortress), the 16th-century monument site of the Saadian Tombs and we will explore the mellah (Jewish quarter).
We take lunch in the middle of the souk in a fabulous rooftop café and then you will be let loose to explore at leisure (or you can stick with the guide who is on hand to help you navigate the souks). We will set a rendezvous point for dinner this evening.
DAY 11 | TUE 27 OCTOBER | Marrakech
We will articipate in a Moroccan cooking class this morning and enjoy your traditional Moroccan culinary creation for lunch.
Once we have satisfied our appetites, we will explore the world famous Majorelle Gardens – once the private home of painter Jacques Majorelle. The Majorelle Gardens are one of the most visited sites in all of Marrakech and beyond the gardens we recommend visiting the fascinating onsite Berber Museum. The boutique stores across the road are also definitely worth browsing!
DAY 12 | WED 28 OCTOBER | Marrakech
Heading out of the city we meander through the valleys at the foot of Mount Toubkal, Morocco’s highest mountain, which rises 4,165 metres above sea level and remains snow capped for most of the year.
We will delve deep into a traditional Berber market to encounter traditional village life before taking a short hike to a traditional Berber home to enjoy mint tea, fresh baked bread and hummus. This is not a strenuous hike, but a degree of fitness is required.
In the afternoon we will return to Marrakech and later, enjoy dinner at the restaurant Naama, which is elegant but relaxed, with a lovely rooftop terrace.
DAY 13 | THU 29 OCTOBER | Marrakech
Today we embark on a ‘souks and crafts’ tour in the old medina, exploring the maze of alleyways and narrow streets that make up the souk. Here sellers offer everything from spice, sandalwood, and black soap to clothing, baskets, leather goods, furniture, lanterns, fabrics, pottery, and almost anything else you could wish for.
A farewell dinner will be hosted at Narwama – a palace in the heart of the medina.
DAY 14 | FRI 30 OCTOBER | Departure
Today marks the end of our Moroccan journey. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before transferring to Casablanca for outbound flights – home to Australia or onward to Tunisia to join our ‘Tunisian Trails’ optional extension.
Wishing you a safe flight and ‘shukran’ (thank you) for sharing this wonderful adventure!
FURTHER INFORMATION
To request the whole adventure brought to life in a vibrant, full-colour itinerary please click here
ACCOMMODATION
A handpicked selection
Barceló Fès Medina – Fès, Morocco
Barceló Fès Medina offers a stylish retreat in the centre of one of Morocco’s most historic cities. With its modern architecture, sleek design, and excellent facilities, this hotel combines contemporary sophistication with easy access to the ancient medina of Fès. Its well-appointed rooms and suites provide a comfortable base, while a wellness area, outdoor pool, and international dining options ensure you can relax after days spent exploring. Read More.
Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp – Sahara Desert
The elegant white tents of Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp stand silently amidst the shifting sands of the Sahara offering tranquility, luxury and friendly Berber hospitality at its most beautifully remote. Located strategically amongst the dunes of Erg Chebi Desert, it is dwarfed by the immense landscape in which it sits. Read More
Auberge du Sud Desert Camp – Erg Chebbi, Morocco
Auberge du Sud Luxury Desert Camp offers an enchanting stay deep in the dunes of Erg Chebbi, combining comfort with an authentic desert experience. Each spacious tent features elegant Moroccan design, en suite bathrooms, and inviting lounge areas. You can enjoy camel rides, sandboarding, and guided walks before returning to candlelit dinners beneath the stars. Read More.
Dar Chamaa – Ouarzazate, Morocco
Dar Chamaa is a peaceful hotel set just outside Ouarzazate, the gateway to Morocco’s Sahara. Designed in the style of a traditional kasbah, the hotel blends Moroccan architecture with modern comfort. Rooms and suites are bright and spacious, decorated with handwoven textiles, carved wooden details, and local artwork. Outside, palm trees frame the swimming pool, while terraces and courtyards provide quiet spaces to relax. With a restaurant serving Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine, Dar Chamaa is an ideal base for exploring the desert, Atlas Mountains, and historic kasbahs. Read More.
Riad XO – Marrakech
A hidden oasis in the lively streets of Marrakech, Riad XO is a stylish fusion of Moroccan heritage and contemporary design. Its serene atmosphere, punctuated by vibrant textiles and handcrafted decor, invites guests to unwind in a space that feels both curated and personal. Read More
NEED TO KNOW
14 days | 17-30 October 2026
14 days
17-30 October 2026
Please enquire for pricing
Please enquire for pricing
START: Casablanca | Finish: Casablanca
Inclusions
- Escorted by Sarah Hoyland ex Casablanca
- 13 nights in luxury boutique accommodation
- Activities and meals as per detailed itinerary – please enquire
Exclusions
- International air arrangements plus all applicable pre-paid departure taxes
- Travel Insurance and individual health requirements
- Additional meals and all drinks
- Room or flight upgrades
- Laundry, camera fees (minimal) and personal purchases
- Gratuity for local tour escort & driver (discretionary)
- Items of a personal nature & any item not specified
Terms and Conditions apply – please request a copy of our Booking Form for full details
Hosted by...
Sarah Hoyland
Sarah is co-director of The Classic Safari Company and the founder of our Journeys for Women collection. Over the years she's travelled to all seven continents, visited over 63 countries, forged global lifelong friendships and honed her haggling skills to perfection! In her own words 'I am happiest when I am lost in a souk, on safari in Africa, travelling with my teenage daughters or when I have the privilege of viewing wild and wonderful places afresh through their eyes of the ladies I host on our hosted womens-only soirees!'.
Thank you for putting together the ancestral adventure of a lifetime. I cannot speak highly enough of the trip. The transfers went smoothly, the accommodation was excellent, the drivers were amazing as they manoeuvred through the traffic and every tour guide had a great deal of knowledge and information. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The contrast of poverty and riches of the country was striking, from the beggars in the street and struggles of the poor to the spectacular, impressive sights of the forts and monuments. There were so many highlights. A moment in time that will never happen again.
Jenny KiddExellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.
Elizabeth MackintoshWe wanted the opportunity to see as many wildlife parks as possible and the Classic Safari Company provided an action-packed itinerary that included six, with 11 tiger sightings and nine leopard. This was overlaid with an introduction to Jaisalmer, Jaipur and the 'real' India. Pench and Panna were the hidden gems of a really great trip, very well organised, seamless and enjoyable. As a solo traveller I felt incredibly safe at all times. I want to go back!
Mark TaylorJulia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.
Milford familyWe are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.
Kim & Brad BalanceThe trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.
Rowntree familyClassic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.
Melanie McMillan & Iain JonesWe loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!
Laurence & Remi CunninghamAn amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!
Sheryl & Robert TaylorThank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.
Paul CozziVery knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!
Jane & Robert HappellEverything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.
Tim BradleyYou can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!
Buckingham FamilyThe trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.
Emma JeffcoatAbsolutely everything was first class & so well organised.
Simon & Jackie AdamsClassic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!
Ros WheelerTheir experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.
Andrew & Pip StevensIf you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.
Miriam & Joseph HarrisonClassic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.
Ron & Alison GuthrieClassic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10
Di & Kingsley YatesThe Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.
Annette WhileyIt certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing. We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.
Jo-anne & Dean MifsudWould do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!
The McGowan TribeAn absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.
Judith & Roger WilliamsFirstly thank you for introducing me to the wonderful tours of the Secret Women's Series. The trip was superbly organised, the hotels brilliant and activities, informative and spectacular. This definitely won't be the last trip that I take.
Kris IsemongerSarah was full of fun, life ideas, knowledge and of course madly making it all happen seamlessly for us!! So so appreciate everything you did for us, our survey was just full points on every score because everything to do with the trip was full points on every score!
Jacquie Randall
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