Upon your arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, you will be greeted by your private driver and whisked away to a serene Luxury Riad tucked within the winding alleys of the ancient medina. After a traditional welcome of mint tea, take a gentle introductory stroll toward the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, whose towering 12th-century minaret serves as the city's spiritual lighthouse and your primary landmark for navigation.
Spend your afternoon navigating the vibrant labyrinth of the Medina Souks, where the scents of cedar and spices lead you past artisans crafting intricate leather and textiles. Afterward, explore the stunning tilework and serene courtyards of the Bahia Palace, a 19th-century masterpiece that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets.
As the sun sets, witness the atmospheric transformation of Jemaa el-Fnaa square as it fills with traditional storytellers, musicians, and vibrant night markets under a canopy of smoke and lights. Conclude your first evening with a refined dinner at Le Foundouk, a former medieval caravanserai, where you can enjoy signature tagines on a candlelit rooftop overlooking the silhouettes of the medina.
Start the morning of your first birthday celebration with a serene walk through the vibrant blue architecture and exotic botanical collections of the Majorelle Garden. Afterward, delve into the intricate Islamic architecture of the Ben Youssef Madrasa, where you can admire some of the most stunning tilework and carved cedar wood in the entire city.
Continue your birthday celebrations with a visit to the opulent Dar el Bacha - Musée des Confluences, where you can marvel at the intricate zellij tilework before retreating into the legendary Bacha Coffee room for a luxurious tasting experience. Afterward, discover the secretive Saadian Tombs, a royal necropolis hidden for centuries, to admire the gilded Carrara marble and the masterful craftsmanship of the Chamber of the Twelve Columns.
Celebrate your birthday evening with sunset aperitifs at the iconic El Fenn Rooftop, offering panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains and the twinkling city skyline. Follow this with a glamorous dinner at Comptoir Darna, where a fusion of fine Moroccan cuisine and live belly dancing performances creates an unforgettable and festive birthday atmosphere.
Leave the Red City behind as you begin a spectacular ascent into the High Atlas Mountains, navigating the winding scenic roads of the Tizi n'Tichka pass, the highest in North Africa. Along the route, pause to capture breathtaking panoramic views of ancient Berber Villages clinging to the hillsides and visit a local women's cooperative to learn about the traditional production of artisanal Argan Oil.
Descend into the valley to explore the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage ksar renowned for its striking earthen clay architecture and its history as a backdrop for cinematic epics. Afterward, head into Ouarzazate to tour the legendary Atlas Film Studios before wandering through the labyrinthine corridors and beautifully preserved rooms of the historic Kasbah Taourirt.
As twilight settles over the desert gateway, enjoy a peaceful dinner at La Terrasse des Délices, featuring traditional tagines served with views of the surrounding palm groves. Conclude the day by retreating to a Luxury Riad in Ouarzazate for a quiet evening reflecting on the day's journey, perhaps enjoying a refreshing mint tea on a terrace overlooking the silhouette of the Anti-Atlas Mountains.
Begin your journey along the celebrated 'Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,' making your first stop at the lush Skoura Oasis to explore the 17th-century Kasbah Amridil, a living museum of fortification and architecture. Afterward, continue into the fragrant Valley of Roses in Kelaat M'Gouna, where you can visit local cooperatives to learn about the distillation of organic rosewater and botanical oils. Your scenic drive then follows the path toward the twisting limestone cliffs of the Dades Valley, offering spectacular vistas of red rock formations.
Embark on a light hike through the surreal geological wonders of the Monkey Fingers rock formations, navigating the narrow canyons and winding dry riverbeds. Afterward, ascend the dramatic switchbacks of the Dades Gorge to witness the iconic zigzagging road and enjoy a panoramic view of the deep limestone cliffs carved by the Dades River over millennia.
Spend a tranquil evening at Chez Pierre, where you will savor a gourmet multi-course meal featuring locally sourced ingredients while overlooking the moonlit Dades Valley. After dinner, retreat to the rooftop terrace of your lodge to enjoy traditional Berber Music surroundings and stargazing under the exceptionally clear desert sky.
Depart the Dades Valley and travel toward the towering limestone walls of the Todra Gorge, where you can take a refreshing walk alongside the crystal-clear river nestled between 300-meter-high cliffs. Continue your journey through the lush palm groves of the Tinghir Oasis, stopping to admire the ancient irrigation systems and the verdant gardens that have sustained local communities for centuries.
After exploring the prehistoric marine fossils in the desert town of Erfoud, you will reach the edge of the towering golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. From here, embark on a rhythmic Camel Caravan trek across the shifting sands to reach a high vantage point, where you can pause to witness the breathtaking colors of a Sahara Sunset over the infinite horizon.
Arrive at your Luxury Desert Camp to a warm welcome of mint tea before sitting down to a gourmet Berber Feast served under a canopy of stars. As the night deepens, gather around a roaring Bonfire to experience the hypnotic rhythms of Traditional Gnawa Music performed by local desert dwellers. Conclude your evening with spectacular Sahara Stargazing, witnessing the vast clarity of the Milky Way from the peak of a silent, moonlit dune.
Wake up early to witness the spectacular Sahara Sunrise over the crest of the Erg Chebbi Dunes before enjoying a final luxury breakfast at your desert camp. Your journey north begins with a drive through the dramatic Ziz Valley, where you will stop at a panoramic viewpoint to admire one of Morocco's largest continuous palm groves and the ancient fortified villages tucked deep within the Ziz Gorges.
After a scenic lunch in the mountain town of Midelt, continue through the Middle Atlas Mountains to the ancient Cèdre Gouraud Forest near Azrou, where you can encounter friendly Barbary Macaques playing among the towering cedar trees. You will then transition to the European-style architecture of Ifrane, often called 'Little Switzerland' for its tidy parks and alpine chalets, before completing the final leg of the journey to the medieval city of Fes.
Upon arriving in the imperial city, settle into the palatial surroundings of Riad Fes, where you can unwind with a glass of Moroccan wine on a rooftop terrace overlooking the ancient cityscape. For dinner, indulge in a refined culinary experience at Restaurant Dar Roumana, savoring seasonal Moroccan-Mediterranean fusion within a beautifully restored 14th-century courtyard. Conclude your evening with a quiet stroll through the atmospheric lanterns of the Fes el Bali medina before retreating to your luxury suite.
Begin your immersion into the UNESCO-listed Fes el Bali by entering through the iconic Bab Boujloud, the vibrant blue gate that serves as the ornate portal to the ancient medina. Accompanied by a local guide, explore the 14th-century Bou Inania Madrasa to admire its intricate cedar carvings and green-tiled minaret before visiting the University of al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 and recognized as the world's oldest degree-granting institution. As you navigate the winding alleys, you will witness the city's spiritual devotion and architectural splendor at the bronze doors of the Royal Palace of Fes.
Continue your sensory journey into the heart of the artisan districts to witness the medieval techniques at the Chouara Tannery, where vibrant dyes are still processed in massive stone vats. Afterward, explore the exquisite woodcarvings housed in the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts, located within a beautifully restored 18th-century caravanserai. Conclude the afternoon by watching master craftsmen hammer out intricate copper and brassware in the rhythmic, bustling environment of Place Seffarine.
As the sun sets, drive up to the Merenid Tombs to witness a golden-hour panorama where the medina's 9,000 alleys transform into a twinkling sea of lanterns. Follow this with a sensory dinner at The Ruined Garden, an enchanting oasis nestled within a former merchant's courtyard known for its herb-infused Moroccan delicacies. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at the sophisticated Golden Bar at Hotel Sahrai, enjoying sweeping views of the ancient city under the starlit sky.
Begin your morning in the imperial city at the monumental Bab Mansour, an architectural marvel widely considered one of the most beautiful gates in Morocco. After exploring the serene Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, walk through the massive vaulted chambers of the Heri es-Souani royal granaries and stables, where history resonates within the thick, cool walls once used to shelter thousands of cavalry horses.
Venture just outside the city to explore the sprawling Roman ruins of Volubilis, marvelling at the intricate floor mosaics and the majestic Capitoline Temple set against the rolling hills. Afterwards, transition to a more contemporary indulgence with a private tour and 'Vineyard Picnic' at Château Roslane, where you can savor the region's finest vintages and local delicacies at Les Celliers de Meknès while surrounded by lush, manicured gardens.
As dusk falls, head to the vibrant Place El Hedim to witness the square transform into a lively gathering spot for local musicians and street performers beneath the illuminated city walls. Savor an elegant dinner at Restaurant Collier de la Colombe, where you can enjoy traditional delicacies like slow-cooked lamb while taking in panoramic views of the Meknes Medina from its elevated terrace. End your evening with a moonlit stroll back to Riad Palais Didi, a magnificently restored palace that offers a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of the imperial city.
Bid farewell to the imperial heartland as you traverse the rolling plains toward the Atlantic, stopping to gaze at the majestic Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca with its minaret rising above the waves. Continue your scenic journey to the coast, arriving in the breezy town of Essaouira where the fresh scent of sea salt and the sight of the Port of Essaouira signal the start of your seaside retreat.
After a fresh seafood lunch, wander the white-and-blue alleys of the UNESCO-listed Essaouira Medina to discover local artisans crafting intricate furniture from fragrant Thuya Wood. Continue to the Skala de la Ville, where you can walk along the 18th-century sea ramparts and watch the Atlantic waves crash against the stone bastions as the coastal breeze cools the air.
As the sun dips below the horizon, retreat to Place Moulay Hassan to soak in the lively atmosphere of local musicians and bustling seaside cafés. Enjoy a sophisticated culinary experience at La Table by Madada, where fresh coastal ingredients are transformed into gourmet Moroccan-French fusion, before concluding the evening with a nightcap at Taros as you look out over the moonlit ramparts.
Wake up to the sound of crashing waves on your final birthday morning in Morocco and head to the expansive Essaouira Beach for an exhilarating session of Horse Riding on the Dunes. After your coastal morning, explore the heritage of the historic Mellah district, stopping to visit the Bayt Dakira museum, a spiritual and historical space dedicated to the peaceful coexistence of the city's diverse cultures.
Immerse yourself in a relaxing birthday experience with a Traditional Moroccan Hammam and aromatic massage at the serene Villa Maroc Spa. Afterwards, enjoy a cultural stroll through the Galerie d'Art Damgaard, where you can explore a unique collection of 'Singular Art' and intricate woodworks that reflect the mystical spirit of the Atlantic coast.
Celebrate your final birthday evening with sunset cocktails on the vibrant rooftop of Salut Maroc!, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the historic Purpuraires Islands. Indulge in an exquisite celebratory banquet at the Heure Bleue Palais, where refined Moroccan cuisine is served in a lush, candlelit courtyard accompanied by the soul-stirring rhythms of live Gnaoua Music.
Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast on the breezy ramparts of Essaouira before departing for your return journey across the Haouz Plain toward the Red City. Along the way, stop at a local Argan Oil Cooperative to pick up high-quality, handcrafted beauty products and culinary oils before arriving back in Marrakech for a final visit to the Ensemble Artisanal, where you can browse premium Moroccan handicrafts in a relaxed, fixed-price atmosphere.
Savor a final Moroccan lunch at Le Jardin Secret, an elegant 19th-century palace complex featuring an exotic Islamic garden and a tranquil marble fountain. Afterward, enjoy a farewell coffee at the chic Café des Épices in the heart of the Rahba Kedima spice square, absorbing the vibrant energy of the market one last time before your transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport.
Find a quiet corner in the Pearl Lounge to reflect on your journey while awaiting your final boarding call. As you soar over the Atlas Skies, the memory of the Sahara sands and the warm hospitality of North Africa remain with you, marking the perfect conclusion to your milestone birthday celebration.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Koutoubia Mosque | Free |
| Bahia Palace | MAD 70 |
| Le Foundouk | MAD 400 |
| Majorelle Garden | MAD 155 |
| Ben Youssef Madrasa | MAD 50 |
| Dar el Bacha - Musée des Confluences | MAD 60 |
| Bacha Coffee room | MAD 200 |
| Saadian Tombs | MAD 70 |
| El Fenn Rooftop (Drinks) | MAD 150 |
| Comptoir Darna | MAD 650 |
| Ait Ben Haddou | Free |
| Atlas Film Studios | MAD 80 |
| Kasbah Taourirt | MAD 20 |
| La Terrasse des Délices | MAD 250 |
| Kasbah Amridil | MAD 20 |
| Monkey Fingers hike | Free |
| Chez Pierre (Dinner) | MAD 350 |
| Camel Caravan trek | MAD 350 |
| Luxury Desert Feast | MAD 500 |
| Restaurant Dar Roumana | MAD 440 |
| Bab Boujloud | Free |
| Bou Inania Madrasa | MAD 20 |
| University of al-Qarawiyyin (Exterior) | Free |
| Chouara Tannery | Free |
| Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts | MAD 20 |
| The Ruined Garden | MAD 300 |
| Golden Bar (Hotel Sahrai) | MAD 200 |
| Heri es-Souani | MAD 70 |
| Volubilis Roman ruins | MAD 70 |
| Château Roslane Vineyard Picnic | MAD 600 |
| Restaurant Collier de la Colombe | MAD 350 |
| Hassan II Mosque | MAD 140 |
| Skala de la Ville | MAD 50 |
| La Table by Madada | MAD 450 |
| Horse Riding on the Dunes | MAD 350 |
| Bayt Dakira museum | MAD 60 |
| Villa Maroc Spa (Hammam) | MAD 650 |
| Salut Maroc! (Drinks) | MAD 150 |
| Heure Bleue Palais (Feast) | MAD 750 |
| Le Jardin Secret | MAD 100 |
| Café des Épices | MAD 150 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | MAD 8620 |