Moroccan Golf & The Imperial Cities
8 days / 7 nights · Private & customizable · Best autumn through spring
Grand Moroccan Journey
This is the cultural heart of Morocco, with a round of golf woven through it. We travel between the imperial cities, Marrakech, Rabat, and Fes, with Casablanca and Meknes along the way, and pair each one with some of the country's finest courses. You play in the mornings and lose yourself in the medinas in the afternoons. If you don't play, the golf simply falls away and you have one of the great cultural journeys instead. Either way, this is Morocco at its most storied: palaces, souks, and a par-3 island green in a cork oak forest. WHO IT'S FOR Travellers who come for the culture first and would happily fold in a round or two. It suits couples where one golfs and one doesn't beautifully: while one plays Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, the other is wandering the Oudayas or sitting with a mint tea in the medina, and you meet for dinner. Gentle on the body, rich on the senses, and easy to slow down wherever you'd like to linger. THE GOLF The crown of it is Royal Golf Dar Es Salam in Rabat: 45 holes designed by Robert Trent Jones in a royal cork oak forest, home of the Hassan II Trophy, with a famous par 3 played to an island green. Marrakech is Morocco's golf capital, with more championship courses than anywhere else in the country and the Atlas Mountains behind every fairway. Along the way there's coastal golf near Casablanca, a course in the hills above Fes, and, if the timing's right, one of the few floodlit courses in the world, set within royal grounds at Meknes. Because the journey is private, we add rounds for keen players or leave the clubs behind entirely.
What to Expect
This Morocco itinerary is a curated journey through the country's most iconic landscapes, cities, and cultural landmarks. Travel from the energy of Marrakech into the High Atlas Mountains, across ancient kasbah routes, and into the Sahara Desert, before continuing through historic medinas and striking natural scenery all the way to the Atlantic coast. With private transport and carefully selected accommodation, the route combines comfort with authentic experiences — from UNESCO World Heritage sites and desert camps to cedar forests and mountain towns. The itinerary can be tailored to your preferred pace, interests, and style of travel.
This 14 day Morocco itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of the beautiful country, covering all the destinations that showcase its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. From riding camels across the desert landscapes to wandering the winding alleys of medieval medinas, this two week itinerary immerses you in authentic Moroccan life. Enjoy refreshing mint tea and fresh orange juice in bustling city squares, discover the world's oldest university in Fes, and visit iconic sites such as the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the blue gate of Chefchaouen. Whether you choose private tours or join a guided tour, this Moroccan adventure promises a significant difference from ordinary travel experiences, blending the four imperial cities with coastal and mountain highlights for an unforgettable two weeks in Morocco.
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Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech Met on arrival and transferred to your riad or hotel. Evening visit to Jemaa el-Fna Square — food stalls, musicians, and storytellers. Exterior view of the Koutoubia Mosque. Optional rooftop dinner overlooking the medina.
Day 2: Marrakech — History & Medina Full day dedicated to the imperial heritage and architectural treasures of Marrakech. Bahia Palace and its intricate courtyards. Saadian Tombs, rediscovered in the 20th century. Ben Youssef Madrasa, once the largest Islamic college in North Africa. Full or half-day guided walk through the souks, meeting local artisans.
Day 3: Marrakech — Gardens & Leisure A more relaxed day focused on art, gardens, and wellness before departing into the mountains. Majorelle Garden & Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Optional traditional hammam, Moroccan cooking class, or hot air balloon ride. Free time for cafés, shopping, or riad relaxation. Optional day trip to Ourika Valley (1.5 hours) or Essaouira (2.5 hours).
Day 4: Marrakech → Ouarzazate Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi n'Tichka Pass — Berber villages and panoramic mountain scenery. Stop at Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO-listed fortified village and film location. Optional visit to Atlas Film Studios. Evening arrival in Ouarzazate, the Gateway to the Sahara.
Day 5: Ouarzazate → Skoura → Tinghir → Todra Gorge → Dadès Valley One of Morocco's most scenic routes. Skoura Oasis and Kasbah Amridil. Rose Valley scenery (seasonal). Tinghir oasis town. Walk through Todra Gorge with its towering limestone cliffs. Arrival in the spectacular Dadès Valley, known for its rock formations.
Day 6: Dadès Valley → Arfoud → Merzouga Journey deeper into Morocco's southeast as the landscape shifts from rugged valleys to expansive desert plains. Ziz Valley palm groves. Stop in Arfoud, known for fossils, desert craftsmanship, and dates. Arrival at the Sahara dunes. Camel trek at sunset. Overnight in a luxury or traditional desert camp. Berber music, campfire dinner, and stargazing.
Day 7: Merzouga — Sahara Desert Experience A full day to experience the Sahara at an unhurried pace. Sunrise over the dunes. Visit to Khamlia Village for Gnawa music traditions. Nomad family visit or 4×4 dune exploration. Sandboarding or leisure time. Second peaceful night near the dunes.
Day 8: Merzouga → Midelt Depart the desert and head north toward the Middle Atlas Mountains. Vast high-desert plateaus. Mountain landscapes approaching Midelt. Apple orchards and cooler evening temperatures.
Day 9: Midelt → Ifrane → Fes Travel through cedar forests with Barbary macaques. Ifrane, known for its European-style architecture. Panoramic viewpoint over the Fes medina on arrival.
Day 10: Fes — Guided Medina Exploration Full day in one of the world's best-preserved medieval cities. Al-Qarawiyyin University — the oldest operating university in the world. Bou Inania Madrasa. Chouara Tannery. Artisan quarters specialising in ceramics, leather, and woodwork. Optional cooking class with a local family.
Day 11: Fes → Chefchaouen Scenic mountain drive into the Rif Mountains. Stroll through the blue medina. Kasbah Museum and central plaza cafés.
Day 12: Chefchaouen → Tangier Travel northwest toward the coast. Tangier Kasbah and old medina. Cape Spartel, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. Caves of Hercules, overlooking the sea.
Day 13: Tangier → Rabat Coastal drive to Morocco's refined capital. Hassan Tower. Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Kasbah of the Udayas, overlooking the Atlantic. Evening walk along Rabat's marina or medina.
Day 14: Rabat → Casablanca Final transfer to Morocco's main international departure point. Hassan II Mosque — one of the largest mosques in the world, set over the ocean. Corniche seaside promenade. Departure or overnight stay in Casablanca.
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Cooking Class — Master tagine, harira, and fresh Moroccan spice blends in a traditional riad kitchen.
Hammam & Spa Day — A centuries-old ritual of steam, black soap, and full-body renewal. Non-negotiable.
Sahara ATV or Quad Bike — Trade the camel for horsepower and race the dunes at golden hour.
Hot Air Balloon over Marrakech — Float above the palms and the Atlas at sunrise. The city at its most breathtaking.
Golf at a Royal Course — World-class fairways set against the Atlas Mountains or the Atlantic coast.
Photography Walk — Capture the medina, the dunes, or the blue streets of Chefchaouen with a local photographer by your side.
Berber Weaving or Pottery Workshop — Learn from a master craftsman and take something handmade home.
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Accommodation Options
Choose the level of comfort that best suits your journey. Each stay is carefully selected by Maple & Medina for its character, location, and sense of place — ensuring every accommodation feels authentic, considered, and seamlessly connected to your route. All properties are subject to availability at time of booking, and will be confirmed or thoughtfully substituted with a comparable option of the same standard.
Standard Comfortable, locally owned riads, guesthouses, and desert camps that offer an authentic Moroccan experience. Simple, welcoming, and well-located — ideal for travellers focused on experience over luxury.
Premium Handpicked boutique riads, upgraded desert camps, and character-filled hotels with enhanced comfort, design, and amenities. A balanced blend of authenticity and elevated comfort.
Luxury Exceptional riads, high-end desert camps, and premium hotels featuring refined interiors, curated service, and standout locations. Designed for travellers seeking comfort, privacy, and a more indulgent experience throughout.
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Private, air-conditioned vehicle + professional English-speaking driver
13 nights accommodation (riads, hotels, desert camp)
Daily breakfast
Sahara camel trek + desert camp experience
Local guiding in Fes
Airport transfers
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International flights to and from Morocco
Lunches & dinners (unless specified)
Entry tickets to monuments
Optional experiences (tours, hammams, activities)
Tips & personal expenses
Experiences & Highlights
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![Tea Ceremony in Marrakech]()
Tea Ceremony in Marrakech
A timeless ritual of hospitality across Morocco. A symbol of welcome and connection, the Moroccan tea ceremony is a quiet moment woven into daily life.
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![Hassan Tower & Mausoleum of Mohammed V, Rabat]()
Rabat Mosque
A striking symbol of Rabat’s heritage, the Hassan Tower stands beside the elegant Mausoleum of Mohammed V, where intricate craftsmanship and white marble honour Morocco’s royal legacy.
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![Erg Chebbi dunes sunset camel silhouette]()
Camel Ride at Sunset, Erg Chebbi
Ride among the golden dunes of the Sahara at sunset or sunrise. Your desert dome awaits beneath a star-filled sky, with welcome tea and a traditional Moroccan dinner at camp.
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![Quad bike on sand dunes Merzouga]()
Quad Biking On The Dunes
A quad bike ride across the sand dunes of Merzouga — one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the vast and peaceful Sahara.
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![Gnawa Music in Khamlia]()
Gnawa Music in Khamlia
Khamlia is famous for its Gnawa music traditions. Visit the village and enjoy a live musical performance.
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![Dadès Gorge monkey fingers rock formation]()
The Dadès Gorges
See the unique rock formations known as "Monkey Fingers" and enjoy panoramic views of the Dadès Valley.
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![Aït Benhaddou ksar UNESCO wide]()
Aït Benhaddou
A UNESCO World Heritage ksar — explore the ancient kasbah and its viewpoints, and take in the surrounding landscapes.
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![Sahara desert camp camel Erg Chebbi sunset]()
Sunset in Erg Chebbi
Arrive at the dunes in the late afternoon. Camel trek or 4×4 into Erg Chebbi at sunset. Dinner under the stars, Berber music, and overnight in a desert camp.
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![Barbary macaque monkey Azrou cedar forest]()
Cedar Forests & Barbary Macaques
On the drive north from Merzouga, the landscape shifts from desert to cedar forests. Stop at Azrou to see the Barbary macaque monkeys in the trees.
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![Ifrane Morocco alpine town]()
Ifrane - Morocco's Little Switzerland
A European-style alpine town in the Middle Atlas, known for its distinctive architecture and cool mountain air. A striking contrast after two days in the desert.
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![Fes Chouara tanneries terrace view]()
The Chouara Tanneries, Fes
The classic leather dyeing pits of Fes, viewed from terrace level. One of the most recognisable sights in Morocco and a highlight of any guided medina walk.
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![Jemaa el-Fna Marrakech evening food stalls musicians]()
Jemaa el-Fna Square, Marrakech
The ancient square alive with food stalls, musicians, and storytellers — with the Koutoubia Mosque, the city's most recognisable landmark, rising above. This is where the journey begins
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![Chefchaouen blue medina alley]()
The Blue Medina, Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen is famed for its blue-washed streets and relaxed atmosphere. The medina, the Kasbah Museum, and the central plaza cafés are the highlights.
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![Hassan II Mosque Casablanca ocean]()
Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca
One of the largest mosques in the world, set over the ocean. The final landmark of a journey across Morocco — and one of its most extraordinary sights.
Make This Journey Your Own
If this itinerary feels like the right foundation, we’ll tailor every detail to match your preferred travel style, pace, interests, and budget. From boutique riads and luxury desert camps to private experiences and hidden local gems, each journey is personalised to feel seamless, thoughtful, and entirely your own.
Start the conversationFrequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, we would love to chat.
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The Grand Moroccan Journey is designed as a complete Morocco travel itinerary for travellers who want to experience the country’s cities, mountains, desert, coast, and cultural landmarks in one trip. Over 14 days in Morocco, you can explore Marrakech, cross the Atlas Mountains, visit Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate, travel through southern Morocco, spend time near the Sahara Desert, continue to Fes, see the blue city of Chefchaouen, and finish along the Atlantic Ocean through Tangier, Rabat, and Casablanca. The route is built around private car travel, handpicked stays, and a pace that can be refined around how you like to travel.
Experiences can include wandering narrow streets in historic medinas, enjoying street food in the city’s main square, sipping mint tea, visiting lush gardens connected to the french painter Jacques Majorelle, seeing grand architecture, learning about Moroccan history, and discovering the rich history behind places like Fes, Rabat, and Casablanca. You can also experience Moroccan culture through local market visits, traditional Moroccan meals, artisan quarters, delicious food, rooftop restaurants, and time in cities known for Moroccan architecture and historical significance.
The journey also includes scenic and nature-focused experiences, from the stunning natural beauty of the High Atlas Mountains to the sand dunes near Merzouga. Depending on your preferences, your Morocco trip can include a camel ride, a stay in a luxury desert tent or luxury tents, sunrise in the Sahara, Gnawa music traditions, mountain scenery, cedar forests, and coastal views where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean.
For travellers who want more depth while visiting Morocco, the itinerary can also include cultural landmarks such as the Hassan II Mosque, Bahia Palace, Koutoubia Mosque, Volubilis, and Rabat, the country’s capital. You can explore Marrakech, visit a Moroccan city like Fes in more detail, walk through Fes el Bali, spend time in the blue city of Chefchaouen, and compare this route with other Morocco itineraries if you are still deciding how much you want to fit into your journey. Like Maple & Medina’s planning process, the experience begins with a foundational route, then the details are tailored around your pace, interests, comfort level, and the kind of moments you want the trip to hold.
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Yes. The Grand Moroccan Journey starts with a full 14-day route, but Maple & Medina can adjust the pace, stops, and experiences so the trip feels personal rather than rigid. Some travellers may want more time in the blue city of Chefchaouen, a slower morning with a mid morning start, or extra time wandering a central market, while others may want to focus on history, food, design, photography, or time with fellow travellers.
Depending on your interests, the itinerary can include the Jewish Quarter or former Jewish Quarter in cities like Fes or Marrakech, the Royal Palace, the Roman city of Volubilis, french colonial architecture in Casablanca, or a visit to the Marrakech Museum. You can also add experiences like seeing Plaza Uta el Hammam and the Spanish Mosque in Chefchaouen, learning about a city’s history, enjoying exotic plants and lush gardens, or choosing rooftop restaurants that become some of your favourite places on the trip.
The goal is to make the Morocco travel itinerary feel balanced. You can keep the major highlights while still having room for slower moments, cultural depth, delicious food, and experiences that match the way you like to travel.
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Getting started with the Grand Moroccan Journey is simple. Reach out to Maple & Medina with your preferred travel dates, group size, accommodation style, and what you want your Morocco trip to feel like. From there, the team can help shape a perfect itinerary around the main highlights, whether this is your first visit or you already know you want more shopping, beach time, historic sites, food experiences, or a slower route through the surrounding area.
This journey can be planned around your own pace, with a private driver, scenic drive days, and time spent in places that match your interests. You may want to spend nights in the old town, take a short walk through maze like medinas, explore Fez, enjoy rooftop terraces, visit the red city, see El Badi Palace, walk through Menara Gardens, or experience Jemaa El Fnaa Square with its food stalls, snake charmers, and main square energy.
If you are drawn to landscapes, the itinerary can include palm trees, olive trees, olive groves, green valleys, the Dades Valley, Draa Valley, surrounding mountains, sand dunes, and long stretches where you can watch the landscape change. Coastal stops can add fresh fish, waves crash moments, and a peaceful escape by the water, while mountain and village routes can include small villages, traditional homes, and panoramic views.
Maple & Medina can also help you decide what is totally worth including based on your timing, whether you are looking at two weeks, weeks in Morocco, or comparing this with another weeks Morocco itinerary. As a tour company focused on custom travel, they help you avoid trying to force too much into one route and instead recommend spending your time where it will make the biggest difference. The result is a more personal, budget friendly or elevated journey that feels like your perfect trip, not a generic package.
Four guides for a journey that feels entirely your own.
A great Morocco itinerary is not about seeing everything. It is about knowing where to linger, when to go, and which experiences belong together.
The places that make a first trip unforgettable
From Marrakech and Fes to the silence of the Sahara.
↗ 02 / CHOOSE YOUR SEASONWhen Morocco feels most like itself
Find the right time for cities, mountains, desert and coast.
↗ 03 / FOLLOW THE COASTMake space for the Atlantic
A guide to Morocco's beaches, from Essaouira to quieter shores.
↗ 04 / TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCEWhat Canadian travellers should know
Straightforward advice for feeling prepared before you arrive.
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