Welcome to Morocco!

Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, our representative will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to our accommodation in the heart of the city.

Depending on your arrival, the remainder of the day is free to explore.

Your Australian Tour Leader will also be waiting to meet you for orientation before tomorrow’s touring starts.

Absolute Egypt icon

Overnight:

Meals included: own arrangements

Marrakech City Tour

marrakech

After breakfast, begin your guided exploration of Marrakech, known as the "Red City" for its distinctive red sandstone walls. Today, you’ll discover some of the most iconic landmarks and hidden treasures of this vibrant city.

Sight you can expect to see include:

Koutoubia Mosque:  a 12th century architectural masterpiece and Marrakech’s most famous landmark. Its towering minaret, a city icon, is visible for miles. The mosque's name comes from "kutubiyyin," meaning booksellers, reflecting its historical connection to local book merchants. 

Koutoubia mosque marrakech

Saadian Tombs: a beautifully restored 16th-century royal necropolis..

Saadian Tombs

Medina: We will explore the famous old historic Medina of Marrakech. Immerse yourself in the souk’s maze-like alleyways, where you can browse handwoven rugs, leather goods, spices, and jewellery. Don’t miss the chance to visit the dyers’ souk, where artisans use traditional methods to colour textiles.

Marrakech souk

Ben Youssef Madrasa: a stunning 16th-century Islamic college adorned with intricate cedarwood carvings, geometric tilework, and grand courtyards.

Majorelle Gardens:  a peaceful oasis of exotic plants and vivid blue architecture once owned by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. 

Marjorelle Gardens

You’ll also have free time this evening to wander back into the famous medina and experience the souks after dark in Marrakech

Overnight: 4 star

Meals: breakfast

After breakfast depart Marrakech, heading for Dades Valley - around 330 km in distance by road. 

tlas Mountains: Journey across the High Atlas Mountains, ascending the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m). Along the way, visit a Berber women’s cooperative to learn about the traditional production of Argan oil, a specialty found only in Morocco. 

Ait Ben Haddou

Ait Ben Haddou

Morocco’s most famous UNESCO-listed kasbah. This iconic mud-brick fortress was said to be built in the 17th century.  Its earthen clay architecture, clustered along a hillside, creates a visually striking landscape. Wander through its narrow alleyways and climb to the highest point for panoramic views over the valley.

Ouarzazate: often called the "Gateway to the Sahara", Ouarzazate is known for its historic kasbahs and thriving film industry. Blockbuster movies and TV shows, such as "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones," have been filmed here. 

Dades Valley

Rose Valley

Travel along the scenic Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, where ancient fortresses stand against the backdrop of dramatic desert landscapes. You'll stop at Kalaat M’Gouna, the heart of Morocco’s Rose Valley. We’ll visit a local cooperative to learn about the production of rose water and beauty products made from locally grown roses.

Overnight: 4 star

Meals: included: breakfast, dinner

After breakfast, depart from the Dades Valley and begin your scenic drive towards the Todra Gorge, one of southern Morocco’s most impressive natural landscapes. You’ll travel through a patchwork of fertile fields, crumbling kasbahs, and traditional Berber villages that dot the valley floor.

Today we are on foot for much of our activities, offering a chance to stretch the legs and get out and about. 

Tinghir & Todra Gorge Walk – approx 5km (2.5 hours)

todra

Stop in the lively town of Tinghir, a charming oasis surrounded by palm groves and framed by the rugged peaks of the Todra and Dades Mountains.

·        Todra Panorama: Take in sweeping views over the canyon, lush palm groves, and the winding river that cuts through the dramatic Todra Gorge.

·        Jewish Quarter: Explore a maze of narrow lanes, ancient kasbahs, and earthen houses that reflect Tinghir’s rich Jewish heritage and centuries of shared culture.

·        Palm Grove: Stroll through a lush oasis of thousands of date palms stretching along the Todra River, with walking paths winding past gardens, small villages, and traditional mud-brick kasbahs.

·        Traditional Berber House: Visit a local home for an authentic glimpse into traditional Berber life and hospitality.

Continue walking gently up the river for about 25 minutes to reach the source of the Todra River and our pick up point.

• What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, hat, water, and camera

Overnight: 4 star (either Todra Gorge or Rissani)

Meals included: breakfast

Important note: depending on our group numbers versus accommodation - we will either stay in Todra Gorge or Rissani (Erfoud will then be added to this days activities)

Today we are heading for Merzouga - a distance of approx 195 km.

it's another day of glorious scenery and interesting stops, both historic and dramatic. 

Erfoud: known for its fossilized marble, where you may visit a local workshop showcasing fossilized stones and artifacts.

Rissani: we'll also make a stop in Rissani, an ancient Moroccan town, the cradle of the Alaouite dynasty, and a vital Saharan trade hub. 

Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif: a significant religious site, honoring the founder of Morocco's Alaouite dynasty. It's a place of reverence and pilgrimage, showcasing traditional Islamic architecture.

Sahara Desrt Camel Trek and overnight desert camp: arrive to Merzouga in the late afternoon. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with refreshing mint tea before embarking on a camel trek into the dunes of Erg Chebbi. As the sun sets over the golden sands, enjoy a magical ride to your desert camp, where you’ll settle into your traditional Berber tent.

Overnight: 4 star

Meals included: breakfast, dinner

Sunrise in the desert

erg chebbi

Wake up early to witness one of the most breathtaking sunrises over the Erg Chebbi dunes. As the golden light spreads across the vast Sahara, soak in the tranquil beauty of the desert. After sunrise, return to the camp for breakfast, before making our way back to Merzouga. Along the way, admire how the shifting light transforms the dunes into a stunning palette of gold and orange hues.

Back on the road, its a big day of travel but with plenty of diverse landscapes including the Middle Atlas Mountains and highlighted stops to break up your day. 

Ziz Valley: as you head north, the landscape gradually transforms, offering breathtaking views of the Ziz Gorge and Ziz Valley, known for its lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs.

Midelt: continue through the Tizi N’Talghamt Pass for a stop in Midelt. Located at a high altitude, Midelt experiences cooler temperatures compared to other Moroccan cities and is surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes. It is known for its apple orchards, earning it the nickname "Apple Capital" of Morocco.

Cedar Forest

moenkey

Make a brief stop to see the Barbary macaques, the only wild monkeys north of the Sahara. Found in the cedar forests near Azrou, these playful primates live freely among the trees.

Ifrane: often called the Switzerland of Morocco for its alpine-style architecture and pristine surroundings. 

Arrive into historic Fes in the late afternoon for the next 2 nights. 

Overnight: 4 star

Meals included: breakfast

Fes City tour

Fes

After breakfast we set out to explore Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city and a UNESCO-listed treasure. Step into the past as you wander through the labyrinthine alleyways of Fes el-Bali, the sprawling old Medina filled with centuries-old souks, mosques, and madrasas.

Begin your tour with a visit to the Royal Palace Gate, an impressive set of bronze doors leading to one of the king’s residences. Nearby, explore the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), the first of its kind in Morocco, dating back to the 14th century.

Your journey continues with some of Fes’ most significant landmarks:

• Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate) – The grand gateway into the ancient Medina.

• Bou Inania Madrasa – A stunning 14th-century religious school, renowned for its intricate zellige tilework and carved cedarwood.

• Al-Qarawiyyine University – Founded in 859 AD, the oldest continually operating university in the world.

• Tanneries of Fes – Witness the traditional process of leather dyeing in vast stone vats.

• Moulay Idriss Mausoleum – The sacred tomb of Fes’ founder.

• Andalusian Quarter – A historic area with Andalusian architectural influence.

• El Glaoui Palace & Palais el Mokri – Former palaces showcasing Moroccan craftsmanship.

• Dar Batha Museum – A 19th-century palace-turned-museum, home to stunning ceramics and textiles.

• Marinid Tombs – Climb to these hilltop ruins for a breathtaking panoramic view over Fes el-Bali.

After lunch, visit a tiles cooperative to see traditional Moroccan craftsmanship before ending your day with a spectacular panoramic view over the Medina.

Overnight: 4 star

Meals included: breakfast

Chefchaouen

Chefchaeoun

After breakfast set off on a scenic three-hour drive through the stunning landscapes of the Rif Mountains towards Chefchaouen, Morocco’s famous "Blue City."

Upon arrival, stop at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the blue-washed medina—the perfect spot for breathtaking photos. Then, we’ll start our afternoon tour through the picturesque streets of Chefchaouen.

Wander through the picturesque alleys, where every corner offers a postcard-worthy scene, and visit highlights such as:

• Outa el Hammam Square – The heart of the medina, lined with cafés and the historic Kasbah Museum.

• Ras El Maa Waterfall – A peaceful spot where locals gather to relax.

• The Spanish Mosque – A short hike rewards you with stunning panoramic views over the blue town.

• Local Artisan Shops – Chefchaouen is famous for its handwoven textiles, unique pottery, and natural dyes.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or sip mint tea while soaking in the relaxed atmosphere of this picturesque mountain town.

Overnight: 4 star

Meals included: breakfast

After breakfast in Chefchaouen, begin your journey south towards Rabat, the capital of Morocco. The drive takes a few hours, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the countryside.

Rabat

Rabat

Upon arrival in Rabat, visit the Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret that stands as a symbol of Rabat's rich history. Nearby, you'll explore the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a stunning example of Moroccan architecture and the resting place of the country’s former kings.

Casablanca Hassan II Mosque

Hassan Mosque

After your visit, continue your journey to Casablanca, Morocco's vibrant economic hub.

In Casablanca, visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world and an architectural masterpiece perched along the Atlantic coastline.

You’ll have free time to explore the corniche or enjoy the bustling atmosphere of Casablanca’s medina.

Overnight: 4 star

Meals included: breakfast

Today we fly as a group to Cairo, Egypt. Flight time approx 5 hrs.

Welcome to the land of pharoahs & the world’s most historic destination, Egypt.

After being transferred to our hotel, we’ll rest up before setting out tomorrow for one of the most anticipated days of the tour - the Great Pyramids.

Egypt

Overnight: Sonesta Hotel (or similar) 5 star

Meals: Breakfast

Pyramids of Giza

pyramids pic

Built for some of the mightiest Pharoahs, the Great Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly the most famous ancient wonder in the world. These colossal structures continue to captivate visitors with their grandeur and ongoing mystery. We’ll spend enough time here to fulfill your bucketlist dreams and finish with a short camel ride in order to grab some incredible shots as a memento of your time here.

Great Sphinx

sphinx pic

The Great Sphinx stands tall, guarding the Giza Plateau in Egypt. Carved over 4,500 years ago, this mythical creature has the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh.

Saqqara Necropolis

step pic

Located 27 km on the outskirts of Cairo, is Saqqara. This remarkable complex includes the Step Pyramid of Djoser and the tombs which we will visit. You’ll also see plenty of hieroglyphics that adorn the walls of the complex throughout.

The Serapeum of Saqqara is a underground necropolis housing massive granite sarcophagi of sacred Apis bulls, offering a mysterious glimpse into ancient Egyptian burial practices.

Overnight: Sonesta hotel (or similar) 5 star

Meals: Breakfast

Grand Egyptian Museum

Museum pic

The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), located just outside Cairo near the Giza Pyramids, is the world’s largest archaeological museum dedicated to a single civilization. 

The GEM is already making waves for its striking modern design and the scale of its collection—over 100,000 ancient Egyptian artifacts, many of which have never been displayed before.

 Its crown jewel is the complete collection of treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb, displayed together for the first time in one place.

Designed to enhance the visitor experience, the museum blends cutting-edge technology with rich storytelling. Expect immersive exhibitions, monumental statues (including a colossal 11-metre-tall statue of Ramses II), and panoramic views of the Pyramids through its glass façade. Whether you’re fascinated by mummies, temples, or ancient art, GEM offers a comprehensive journey through Egypt’s past.

Highlights:

• Full Tutankhamun collection with over 5,000 items

• Interactive displays and virtual reality features

• Grand staircase showcasing pharaoh statues

• On-site restaurants, gift shops, and a conservation centre

National Museum of Civilization

civilzation pic

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization showcases Egypt's rich heritage, covering prehistoric to present-day periods. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by an array of artifacts dating back thousands of years. From monumental statues of pharaohs to intricate hieroglyphic inscriptions, each display tells a captivating story of Egypt's past. The museum also boasts a remarkable collection of mummies and burial objects, shedding light on the ancient Egyptian beliefs surrounding the afterlife.

Moez Street Walking Tour

Moez Street pic

Moez Street in Cairo is a historic street that showcases Egypt's rich Islamic heritage. Located in the heart of Old Cairo, it’s lined with beautifully preserved mosques, madrasas, and palaces from the Fatimid, Mamluk, and Ottoman eras. The vibrant street offers a glimpse into medieval Cairo with its intricate architecture, bustling markets, and traditional crafts.  

Khan El Khalili Market

khan el khalili pic

Nestled within the vibrant streets of the historic Islamic Cairo district lies an enchanting world of colors, scents, and cultural treasures. The Khan el-Khalili Bazaar is a bustling, vibrant market that has been around for centuries. Famous for its gold souks, visitors can shop for unique pieces and souvenirs through its whimsical laneways. Bartering is expected here, but we’ll happily help you negotiate a fair price if you prefer.

Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Overnight: Sonesta Hotel (or similar ) 5 star

Meals: Breakfast

Aswan pic

This morning we leave the bustling city of Cairo for the chilled vibes of Aswan. Flight time approx 1hr 10.

Located along the banks of the Nile River, and home to many archaeological sites, Aswan is a place of incredible beauty. This captivating jewel is an oasis of rich red sunsets and golden sands encompassing the lush farmland along the rivers edge. We’ll be here for the next two nights enjoying every drop of resplendent charm.

Felucca Sailing

felucca pic

There is no better way to embrace the beauty of the Nile River than on a traditional wooden sailing boat known as a felucca. Sit back and take the tranquil surroundings as you gently glide through the water.

Nubian Village

nubia pic

Discover the fascinating Nubian Villages situated at the bottom of Elephantine Island. Stroll through alleyways and discover the simple and natural life of the people that populate them. You will get to visit a Nubian family home and try some local delicacies before setting sail to our hotel, and home for the night.

Overnight: Movenpick Resort (or similar) 5 star

Meals: Breakfast

Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel pic

Optional Tour Cost USD $150 pp

For those participating in the tour - we make our way by coach to one of Egypt’s most sought out attractions. Abu Simbel is a famous UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its colossal rock-cut temples. Built by Ramses II, these iconic structures stand as a testament to ancient Egyptian civilization, attracting visitors worldwide with their impressive architecture and rich historical significance. The two colossal temples greeting visitors are dedicated to Pharaoh himself and his beloved wife, Queen Nefertari.

For those not participating - the day is free to explore the city or simply relax by the pool taking in the beautiful views of the River Nile.

Overnight: Movenpick Resort or similar (5 star)

Meals: Breakfast

Philae Temple

philae temple pic

Jump aboard a motor boat for the short journey to Philae Temple on the island of Agilkia. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, the temple is a testament to Egypt's rich cultural heritage. You’ll hear stories from your Egyptologist guide amidst stunning columns and intricate hieroglyphics that adorn the walls throughout.

Unfinished Obelisk

Obelisk pic

The Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan, Egypt, is an enormous ancient monument left incomplete in its quarry, offering insight into Pharaonic stone-carving techniques.

Cruising

cruise pic

From here, we make our way to our River Boat around midday for the next three nights. It’s a new adventure, cruising toward the iconic city of Luxor.

CRUISE MS Nile Style or similar (5 star)

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

cruise pic

Enjoy a sleep in this morning. You’ll have free time to explore the boats amenities, relax by a picture window or sit up on the sun deck around the pool.

Kom Ombo Temple

kom ombo pic

Visit the Temple dedicated to both Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris the hawk. Kom Ombo temple stands on a promontory at a bend in the Nile, where in ancient times sacred crocodiles basked in the sun on the river bank.

CRUISE MS Nile Style (or similar) 5 star

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Esna Lock

esna lock pic

We continue north towards Luxor, passing through the engineering marvel of Esna Lock. As our boat enters the lock, the gates will be closed behind us, allowing the water level in the lock to adjust to match the level of the river downstream. Once the water level is equalized, the boat can pass through and continue its journey down the river. Be sure to make your way up on the roof deck to capture the moment.

Karnak Temple

Karnak pic

Built over more than a thousand years by generations of Pharaohs. the great “Hypostyle Hall” is an incredible forest of giant pillars, covering an area larger than the whole of Notre Dame Cathedral. One of Egypt’s more prized attractions, Karnak is a spectacular complex of sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons and obelisks. Simply put, everything here is on a gigantic scale.  

Luxor Temple by dusk

luxor temple pic

Enjoy a walk around Luxor Temple as the sun goes down and the walls of the temple are lit up. Located on the east bank of the Nile River, Luxor Temple reigns supreme as one of Egypt's most extraordinary archaeological gems built over 3,000 years ago. Marvel at the soaring columns and colossal statues, adorned with intricate hieroglyphics and reliefs depicting scenes from ancient Egyptian mythology and history. The Avenue of Sphinxes, stretching over a mile in length, connects Luxor Temple to its sister temple, Karnak.

CRUISE: MS Nile Style or similar (5 star)

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

This morning we disembark our cruise and make our way to the West Bank attractions.

Valley of the Kings

valley of the kings pics

The Valley of the Kings, located on the west bank of the Nile River in Egypt, is an ancient burial ground that served as the final resting place for pharaohs and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom era. Spanning over 500 years, from the 16th to the 11th century BCE, it contains around 63 tombs, including Tutankhamun's famous tomb. These tombs were carved into the rock and adorned with intricate paintings and hieroglyphics. Discovered in the 18th century, the Valley of the Kings remains a significant archaeological site, giving us valuable insights into the ancient Egyptian burial customs and beliefs.

Hatshepsut Temple

hatshepsut pic

Hatshepsut Temple is quite like nothing else among Egypt’s famous temples. Built during the reign of Queen Hatshepsut in the 15th century BC and dedicated to the sun god, Amun-Ra, the temple’s backdrop of towering cliffs makes for an impressive sight. 

Queen Hatshepsut was a unique and trailblazing figure in ancient Egypt. As a female ruler, she defied societal norms and broke through the gender barrier, ascending to the throne and ruling Egypt effectively for over two decades. Her reign symbolized female empowerment and challenged traditional gender roles, setting an inspiring precedent for future generations of female leaders.

Colossi of Memnon

Colossi pic

Standing 18 metres tall, the Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues near Luxor, Egypt, depicting Pharaoh Amenhotep III seated on a throne. Erected around 1350 BCE, they originally guarded the entrance to his mortuary temple, which is now mostly in ruins. 

Mid afternoon we fly back to Cairo for one final night in Egypt.

Overnight: Sonesta hotel (or similar) 5 star

Meals: Breakfast

We say our final goodbyes today. You’ll be transferred to Cairo International airport for your flight home, having made friends and incredible lifelong memories.

Meals: Breakfast