You will find colour and charisma in Europe’s most popular hotspots. All this is packed into one unforgettable experience. You will spend 24 days exploring Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. Enjoy chaotic markets, coastal retreats, and engaging in conversation with locals. Madrid’s architectural masterpieces and other artistic wonders are worth a visit. Portugal’s rich history, charming towns, historical performance art, and complex cuisine will delight you. Morocco’s magic and grandeur will leave you spellbound. These three countries offer a wealth of information and a leader who will guide you to the best spots.
Day | Highlights | Overnight |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Madrid | Madrid |
Day 2 | Salamanca | Salamanca |
Day 3 | Coimbra | Coimbra |
Day 4 | Coimbra Create your tour |
Coimbra |
Day 5 | Lisbon | Lisbon |
Day 6 | Lisbon | Lisbon |
Day 7 | The Algarve/ Olhao | The Algarve/ Olhao |
Day 8 | The Algarve/ Olhao | The Algarve/ Olhao |
Day 9 | Seville / Tarifa | Seville |
Day 10 | Chefchaouen | Chefchaouen |
Day 11 | Chefchaouen | Chefchaouen |
Day 12 | Fes | Fes |
Day 13 | Fes | Fes |
Day 14 | Marrakech | Marrakech |
Day 15 | Marrakech | Marrakech |
Day 16 | Aroumd | Aroumd |
Day 17 | Ait Benhaddou | Ait Benhaddou |
Day 18 | Ouarzazate – Zagora | Zagora |
Day 19 | Tamegroute Erg Chigaga | Erg Chigaga |
Day 20 | Oulad Berhil | Oulad Berhil |
Day 21 | Taroudant Essaouira | Essaouira |
Day 22 | Essaouira | Essaouira |
Day 23 | Marrakech | Marrakech |
Day 24 | Marrakech |
Madrid, welcome! Madrid is a lively city. It is famous for its chic boulevards and manicured parks. Your adventure starts with a meeting at 6 or 7pm depending on the availability of common areas. We will then head out to a group dinner, where we can meet our fellow travelers. You may want to fly a few days earlier than normal in order to see Madrid. You can spend hours on the Paseo Del Arte (or Art Walk) to learn more about Western art history. Begin at the Museo del Prado. Next, visit the Museo Reina Sofia to discover contemporary Spanish masters such as Picasso and Dali. The Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza displays eight centuries worth of European painting. Enjoy tapas or Rioja after your meeting.
Accommodation
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
This day does not include meals.
Additional Information
Attendance at the welcome meeting is essential as we collect insurance details and emergency contact information. Please let the hotel reception or your travel agent know if you will be arriving late. For more information about the location of the meeting, ask reception or find a note in lobby. You may be able to attend the meeting if you are unable to arrange a flight to arrive on time. Subject to availability, we’ll happily book additional accommodation.
You can say goodbye to Madrid today and travel north-west via public transport to Salamanca, a historical university town (about 3 hours). Salamanca, a medieval town with rose-hued architecture, is surrounded by beautiful rolling green hills and lush pastures on Spain’s northern plateau. It’s a great place to explore on foot. Your guide will lead you on an orientation walk upon arrival. Here you can explore the Plaza Mayor and see the stunning Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Plaza Mayor, Spain’s most beautiful square, is the heart of local life. It is unique in architecture, and it thrives with activity, as locals gather to enjoy coffee, tapas, or cocktails on the square. You can then enjoy the rest of your afternoon or evening at leisure. The Casa de Las Conchas (or ‘House of the Shells) is a beautiful place to admire the intricate details. You can also see the Old and New Cathedrals. Finally, climb up to the top for a panoramic view of the terracotta-coloured rooftops. The vibrant nightlife of the town is a result of the high student population. So, take a look at the lively vibes tonight.
Accommodation
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
This day does not include meals.
Take a private bus to travel further west and cross into Portugal. You will arrive in Coimbra, a laid-back city (approximately four hours). For the next two nights, Coimbra will serve as your base. Coimbra, once the capital of the County, is now a dignified spot on the banks the River Mondego. Its royal heritage can still be seen in its old streets and buildings. Your leader will take you on a guided walk once you arrive to help you navigate the city’s maze of alleyways. Wandering around Coimbra and exploring is half the fun. Make the most of your time to get to know the city. Coimbra is home to many beautiful examples of azulejos tiled in white stone buildings. Many of these historical structures date back to the 12th century, such as the Cathedral Se Velha. Here you will find the finest examples of Romanesque churches in Portugal and elegant museums. Highlights include the University of Coimbra, Portugal’s oldest university, and the famous baroque library, Biblioteca Joanina with its 18th century bell tower.
Accommodation
All Meals Included
Breakfast
Enjoy a day of free exploration in Coimbra, before you witness a traditional Fado performance. Fado songs have to follow a specific structure. Although this traditional music is open to interpretation, it often features mournful songs with lyrics about the sea and the lives of the poor. This music was popular in Coimbra where male students of university would serenade their girlfriends. The songs are often literary translations or relate to themes that students can relate to. You can spend your time exploring the countryside looking for ancient Roman ruins. It takes about 30 minutes to get there by bus. Conimbriga’s ruins are rich in mosaics that have been preserved well and provide a fascinating insight into ancient Roman life. You have several options for returning, including the optional three-kilometre walk through the countryside to Condeixa. You can also take a boat tour to see Coimbra from another angle if you have the time.
Accommodation
Includes Activities
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
You can take a bus from central Portugal to Lisbon in approximately 3.5 hours. Lisbon is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities and offers the best of Portuguese life. It boasts amazing architecture, multiculturalism, great seafood, and a lively nightlife. Take an orientation walk around Lisbon, a city on the banks the Tagus (Tejo). Lisbon’s charm and character are largely due to its magnificently renovated buildings, grand boulevards, impressive castles and churches. The Citadel of Sao Jorge Castle is a medieval citadel located in the city’s centre. It dates back to Moorish times. It sits at the top of the Old Town. You can see the city’s endless white buildings and red terracotta roofs, as you look down. You have the afternoon and evening free so why not visit the magnificent Naval Museum to learn more about the history of Portuguese navigation? You might prefer to wander through the charming streets of your local neighborhood and observe local life. Barrio Alto is the best place to go if you want to experience Portugese nightlife.
Accommodation
Includes Activities
All Meals Included
You have today free to explore Lisbon or take a train ride to Sintra, a stunning region in Portugal, where you’ll see the Pena Palace. You will find amazing cliff-top palaces, unique Moorish architecture and great walking in this area. The 8th century Castle of the Moors overlooks the Old Town. The views from the Battlements of the Serra de Sintra mountain range offer stunning views.
Accommodation
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
Today’s bus ride will take you approximately five hours to reach the Algarve, Portugal’s southern coast. This region is known for its fertile plains full of orange and olive trees, fig trees and almonds. It’s also home to many other attractions such as the Algarve, including the Algarve National Park. Olhao is the Algarve’s largest fishing port. The city is alive with Moorish buildings, bustling old neighborhoods, and an active waterfront. It has a Northern African vibe. Check-in at your home and spend the rest of the day exploring Olhao. You might like to explore the city center or maybe try Olhao’s famous fish restaurants on Avenida 5 de Outubro. This is the eastern Algarve’s food mile filled with authentic and delicious local flavours.
Accommodation
All Meals Included
Olhao is separated by the Atlantic Ocean by a number of barrier islands. This creates a stunning landscape of canals. Salt pans, lagoons, sand banks and channels. You will board a local passenger vessel and travel to Ilha de Culatra. Here you will find a series boardwalks that lead away from fishermen’s settlements and then cross over lagoons and dunes to reach long beaches that disappear into the haze. You can return to Olhao by the afternoon, or earlier if necessary. Then you can relax in Olhao for the remainder of the day. You can take advantage of the great walking trails in the area to reach some of the Algarve’s less-known spots. Or you could head towards Ria Formosa Nature Reserve to bird watch or fish on a fishing trip. The best place to watch stunning sunsets is Olhao’s Old Town.
Accommodation
Includes Activities
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
This day does not include meals.
Travel by bus from Seville to Spain and leave Portugal behind. Legends tell us that Seville was founded in 1525 by Hercules. Its origins can be traced back to the Tartessian civilisation. It was Hispalis to the Romans, and Isbiliya to the Moors. It was renamed Hispalis by the Christians, which made it the gateway to the ‘New World’. Today, it is the biggest city in southern Spain. Seville, the city of Carmen and Don Juan, is well-known for its energy and flamboyance. Seville is also known for its tapas, flamenco and oranges. After a brief orientation, take some time to explore the city’s main attractions. Travel onwards towards Tarifa where you will spend the night before heading over to Africa tomorrow.
Accommodation
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
This day does not include meals.
Get up early this morning to visit Tarifa Castle, or just to stroll along the beach. Leave Europe and travel to Africa. It takes about 1 hour to cross the Straits of Gibraltar from Tangier. You’ll be picked up from the ferry by our Moroccan crew and driven 3 hours to Chefchaouen in the middle of a mountainous agricultural area. You may not have much time to explore this rural retreat when you arrive, but you might be able to take in the architecture of the Grand Mosque (15th century) and the medina (walled fortress at the Kasbah). Before you settle in to your hotel, try some local goat cheese or a Tajine.
Accommodation
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
This day does not include meals.
Additional Information
As you travel to Morocco today, please make sure your passport is with you. Your leader will be changing upon arrival at Tangier. After an introduction, your European leader will be returned to Spain while your Moroccan leader will care for you on the Moroccan portion of the trip.
Meet your guide in Chefchaouen early in the morning to discover the maze of streets. This is undoubtedly the most beautiful place in Morocco. Chefchaouen is a large valley nestled between two majestic peaks of the Rif Mountains. The medina is adorned with beautiful blue and whitewashed homes, red-tiled roofs, and artistic doorways. There are also shops selling small sweets and woven goods in the main square. Many of Chefchaouen was rebuilt by Andalusian Refugees fleeing the Reconquista. You can learn about the daily life of a small Moroccan community. Visit a bakery and watch women wash their clothes. Finally, you can walk up to an old mosque for great views over the town, which is nestled between two mountains. You may be able to see artisans at work as this is a very popular place to shop for handicrafts and blankets, woolen garments, and carpets. Relax in traditional Moroccan hammams after your walking tour.
Accommodation
Includes Activities
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
Today, say goodbye to Chefchaouen and take a minivan ride for five hours to the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco. You will arrive in Fes to experience a medieval medina bursting with exotic sounds, smells, and tastes. Fes is a vibrant, bustling, captivating, and overwhelming medina. You can fuel your explorations of this imperial capital city by enjoying a glass mint tea and sweet Moroccan dates. Once you have arrived, your day is yours to explore the largest medieval city in the Arab World. For those who are more adventurous, you might want to try Moroccan specialties like the camel burger and harira (chickpea soup), or chicken-stuffed pastilla with Couscous for dinner. It’s a memorable experience to watch the Medina sunset while listening to a dozen melodic prayers compete for your attention.
Accommodation
All Meals Included
A guided walking tour will take you around the old city, Fes el Bali. You can step back in time to see the Medina’s labyrinth, full of craftsmen, markets and tanneries, as well as mosques. You can see donkeys loaded with goods, making this one of the most car-free areas in the world. Also, you can explore the special sections that separate the souks. Medieval Fes was a world-renowned centre for education and culture, both Islamic and Jewish. Its libraries and religious institutions are famous. Its mosques have a great reputation. The Medersa Bou Inania is one of the most stunning buildings in the city. It has been recently restored and is now available for tourists. You will pass the Belghazi Museum and Medresse el Attarine. Also, the magnificent Funduk Nejjarine is a restored 18th-century inn. The famous Tannery, which is known for its iconic view of the dye pits, as well as a ceramics factory, where you can watch traditional potters at work, will be on your tour. The afternoon is yours to spend as you wish.
Accommodation
Includes Activities
All Meals Included
Additional Information
Today, you’ll spend at least five to six hours on your feet to visit the unique medina in Fes. This is a highlight of Morocco, and it’s well worth the weariness at the conclusion of a long day. Wear appropriate shoes. You will also be visiting carefully chosen shops during today’s adventure. Intrepid established a centralised system to receive and distribute payments from recommended suppliers, as the practice of getting kickbacks or commissions for recommending certain shops, services, or activities is deeply ingrained in Moroccan culture. Please refer to the section ‘Important Notes’ or speak to your Tour leader.
This morning, travel by train to Marrakech. It takes approximately 8 hours. Before dinner, head out with the group to visit Djemaa El Fna, the main square. It is alive with activity. The square is home to storytellers, henna-painters, and performers. There’s also a street food bazaar with stalls selling Moroccan delights. You can see the Koutoubia Mosque from a distance, as well as its minaret, which is world-famous for being the Giralda’s’sister’. You can explore Palais Badi’s ruins, which was once one of the most magnificent palaces in the country, or browse the amazing bazaar. Every step you take to a new souq will bring you a new scent, a different sight, or a gift to buy. You will be tempted by the exotic scents and vivid colours of the spice markets, music from the musicians, rich folds of carpets, delicious foods, acrobats, and perfumed gardens. You might even brave the night to eat in the great square of Djemaa El Fna.
Accommodation
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
Additional Information
The train ride today will take approximately 8 hours. Moroccan trains are very comfortable (we travel first class) so you can relax and enjoy the scenery or read a book.
Today is yours to do with as you like. Explore Marrakech more in detail. Meet the fortune-tellers and performers at Djemaa el-Fna. Or, enjoy Moroccan cuisine alfresco-style at night stalls. Relax and enjoy mint tea while you chat with locals, or pick up supplies for South Morocco. Remember that you will have another briefing today to meet new travelers and the local leader for this stage of your adventure.
Accommodation
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
Additional Information
This is a combination trip so your group leader and the other travellers will likely change. A welcome meeting will take place to discuss your next steps and meet other travellers. Your new leader will need to collect insurance information and emergency contact information. It is important that you attend this meeting. For more information, ask reception or find a note in lobby.
It takes approximately 2 hours to drive through the High Atlas Mountains to reach the village of Imlil. Your main luggage should be stored upon arrival. You can then load your overnight bags onto your pack mules. Take the 1 hour trek to Aroumd. The remote village of Aroumd is perched on a rocky outcrop and offers breathtaking views over the High Atlas Mountains. It also provides an opportunity to learn traditional Berber (Amazigh), culture. Stay the night at a mountain gite family-run where you can enjoy traditional hospitality as well as delicious food. The rest of the day is free to explore the village or the nearby farmlands. The group can hike approximately eight kilometres to Sidi Chamharouch, which takes about four hours. No matter your level of fitness, Aroumd is a place you can explore far beyond the limits of modern society.
Accommodation
Includes Activities
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
Additional Information
Proper footwear is required for the optional hike to Sidi Chamharouch shrine. Good walking shoes with a rigid, grippy sole are sufficient. Walking over well-worn paths can be dangerous, especially if they are muddy or unstable.
The facilities at the homestay (both the bathrooms and the sleeping arrangements) are shared, but they are comfortable and cozy and offer an unforgettable Intrepid experience.
Today’s journey will take you along mountain roads to Ait Benhaddou, on the edge of the Sahara, and over Morocco’s highest pass Tizi n’Tichka (22260m). Ait Benhaddou, perched on a hilltop, is one of Morocco’s most famous sites. It has remained almost unchanged since the 11th Century. The town was once a major stop for caravans crossing the Sahara. They brought salt, gold, ivory, and slaves back. There are many TV and film credits for the town, including Gladiator, Game of Thrones and Lawrence of Arabia. You will be led by a leader through the Old Town’s narrow streets, and then climb to the top of the hill for stunning views of the surrounding plains. The Tawesna teahouse is located on the banks. The community-run business provides income for local women to support their families. They then produce delicious pastries, teas and other treats using locally sourced ingredients. Talk to the women and enjoy a sweet treat as you chat. You can enjoy a demonstration of local cooking and a meal of Morocco’s most popular dishes, couscous or tagine.
Accommodation
Includes Activities
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
Today’s journey will take you south towards the Sahara. You’ll stop at Ouarzazate, a frequently used film location (approximately five hours). Continue onwards through the lush Draa Valley towards Zagora. This small oasis town is ideal for an overnight stay. Take a walk through the palm groves, visit the ksars, and explore the surrounding countryside upon your arrival.
Accommodation
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
You will drive along the desolate Jbel Tadrart mountains, through desert oasis of date palms, and then on to Tamegroute. Visit an interesting library that houses ancient scripts and literature of science, literature, and the stories of the prophet Mohammed. After visiting the library, you can join a local guide and discover the underground Kasbah. Continue driving for approximately 1 hour to M’Hamid, a frontier town. Take a short camel ride across the dunes. Then, jump in 4WD vehicles to drive to the huge Erg Chigaga dunes. Arrive late in the afternoon. You will spend the night at your desert camp under the stars.
Accommodation
Includes Activities
All Meals Included
Additional Information
Many consider the camel trek through Sahara to be a highlight of their trip. You can walk with the camels about an hour to get to the camp if you are not comfortable doing this. It’s possible to walk the same distance back the next day, but it is a pleasant and easy walk. You will find basic facilities and bedding at the camp. Most travellers will be comfortable between April and October with the blankets provided. However, if you are sensitive to cold, you might want to bring your own sleeping bag, especially in the months of November through March. You will not have electricity in the camp so it is important to bring your own batteries, chargers, and any other items you might need.
Minivans are the best way to travel to Oulad Berhil, the market town. It should take approximately 8 hours to complete the journey, with several stops. The drive takes you through desert scenery, and follows a route that is a reserve for indigenous argan trees. You might be able to see the famous photo of goats climbing trees for nuts if you are lucky. After a day of travel, arrive at your accommodation in the evening to relax.
Accommodation
All Meals Included
Additional Information
This is a long journey day so you will not arrive at your accommodation until the late afternoon or early evening. You can relax at the pool or in the steam bath at the riad (house) located 45 km outside Taroudant.
You can start your day by visiting the souqs in Taroudant, where you will find silver jewellery and colourful mosaics from Morocco. After that, travel west to Essaouira on the coast (approximately five hours). Essaouira is a name that means « image », which is fitting since it’s such an idyllic town. The town’s charm is evident. You will find whitewashed homes with bright blue shutters, art galleries, and wood workshops within its stone walls. It will be dark by the time you arrive so don’t waste your time looking around.
Accommodation
All Meals Included
Join a local guide today for a walking tour of the old medina and Jewish mellah. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. You can grab a fresh-caught fish plate at the port or wander the many shops and art galleries. You can also take a relaxing hammam or local-style shower if you prefer.
Accommodation
Includes Activities
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
Enjoy a morning at your leisure in Essaouira and then take a bus to Marrakech in afternoon. It will take approximately 3 hours. You will have free time upon arrival to explore the area or take part in optional activities. You might want to visit the Palais Bahia which is a stunning example of Muslim architecture or the Palais Badi ruins.
Accommodation
Optional Activities
All Meals Included
Your adventure ends after breakfast. You can pre-book additional accommodation if you want to spend more time in Marrakech (subjects to availability).
All Meals Included
You would like to customize this itinerary?
Inclusions
Meals
19 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
Transport
Metro, Train, Ferry, Metro. Private vehicle. Public bus. Taxi.
Accommodation
Camping site (1 night), Gite (1 Night), Hotel (18 Nights), Riad (3 Nights)
Activities included
Dates & availability
Trip departures cannot be booked.
Important notes
4.This trip has limited time in Madrid. You can spend additional nights in Madrid if you wish to see this incredible city. You can ask your booking agent to arrange additional services (subject to availability).
5.Recommending certain shops, services, or activities in return for commissions is part of Moroccan tourism culture. Intrepid created a system that allows you to select the most enjoyable shopping experiences and activities, based on feedback from previous travelers. This is in an effort to monitor and control shopping and activities. These activities may be included in included walking tours, or free of charge. If you don’t want to participate in these shopping experiences, we will let you know. Your group leader will work with you to find a substitute. Intrepid has established a centralised system for receiving payments from recommended suppliers. These funds are then distributed to local Responsible Travel projects such as the’say no plastic’ cotton bags we use, drinking water refill stations, traveller information packs and leader bonuses. Your group leader can provide more information about these arrangements upon request. Intrepid will do everything possible to ensure these suppliers and services are of reasonable quality. However, Intrepid can’t guarantee the quality of any product. The fund’s goal is to ensure that you, the traveller, have a great experience. If we have achieved this goal, please let us know by leaving feedback after your trip.
Please keep in mind that the itinerary provided is merely a suggestion. If it does not suit your needs, feel free to reach out to us. We will be happy to create a customized tour itinerary specifically designed to meet your preferences and the length of your stay. We offer personalize tours and trips throughout Morocco. The cost of the tour is based on the number of participants, with a lower cost per person for larger groups. The transportation fee remains constant, and the cost will be divided among participants. The price also varies based on the quality of the chosen accommodation. For a precise quote, please get in touch with us.
Discover more outstanding itineraries for your Morocco adventure: Would you like to discover additional travel ideas for your Morocco trip? Take a look at these additional Morocco itineraries, explore alternative options for spending two weeks in Morocco, or learn about the optimal time to visit Morocco.
Welcome to Morocco Tours, your premier travel agency specializing in unforgettable experiences in Morocco. We understand that traveling to a new country can be overwhelming, which is why we’re here to help. With years of experience and a deep love for the country, our team of experts has curated a range of tours that showcase the best of Morocco.