Overview
Dive into history
Uncover Morocco’s lesser-visited north on this 13-day adventure for a fascinating exploration of its incredible history and rich culture.
Begin in the maze of Fes’ thousand-year-old medina, the country’s spiritual and intellectual heart, tracing the area’s history from Roman ruins through to Berber sultanates, before heading north to beautiful blue Chefchaouen and cool Tangier with views across to Europe.
Then follow the coast via relaxed Rabat and time on the beach at a beautiful hotel on the wild Atlantic coast, ending in bohemian Essaouira. At each stop, wander bustling markets and grand historic sites with a private guide, meet local artisans and producers, and marvel at breathtaking views.
Highlights
Trip highlights
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Exploring centuries of culture in the cities of Fes, Tangier and Rabat
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Adventure activities like mountain hiking, horse riding and surfing
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Relax by the ocean at the fabulous La Sultana Oualidia and in Essaouira
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Staying in a wonderful selection of boutique and luxury character properties
Inclusions
What's included
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12 nights of luxury accommodation
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Private tours and experiences
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Private transfers
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Price per person based on two people sharing
An unforgettable trip with a positive impact
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Community & Culture
Properties and experiences that uplift and empower local communities.
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Conservation
Supports wildlife projects, protected areas and ecosystem regeneration.
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Footprint
Lodges and hotels chosen for their sustainability credentials and initiatives.
Days 1 — 4
Ancient Fes
Morocco’s second largest city and its intellectual and spiritual heart, Fes is a fascinating place. In its old medina, dating back to the 9th century, some 9000 alleys lead to spice-scented markets, bustling squares, ornate mosques and pungent tanneries, where hand-pulled carts and donkeys replace cars. An unapologetically authentic place and a feast for the senses.
You'll be based out of a beautiful riad with views over the calm chaos below with a private guide to make sure you don't get lost in the labyrinth. Wander historical highlights such as the oldest working library in the world and the Jewish ‘Mellah’ quarter to get an insight into Morocco’s past. You’ll also venture even further back in time visiting the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes with its monumental gates.
Days 4 — 5
Chefchaouen blues
Head north of Fes into the Rif Mountains to find the beautiful blue city of Chefchaouen. The reasons for blue-hued buildings is debated, perhaps a tradition from Jewish exiles from Spain in the 15th century or from Europe in the 1930s as a reminder of God’s presence – or more cynically to attract tourists in the 70s – but the effect is beguiling and the setting glorious.
Walk the streets to explore the Moorish fortress and charming media before an afternoon hike in the fir forests of Talassemtane National Park, following valleys and cool waters to sacred rock formations and rural villages before a magnificent sunset over Chefchaouen from your boutique hotel.
Days 5 — 7
The Door to Africa
Looking out across the Strait of Gibraltar to Spain where the Mediterranean and Atlantic meet, the northern city of Tangier has long been contested by empires over the ages and is a melting pot of cultures. As a semi-autonomous international city in the 20th century, it attracted spies, artists, counterculture writers and bohemians, an intriguing atmosphere that can still be felt.
You’ll be shown around the peaceful kasbah’s cobbled streets and museum, as well notable visitors’ favourite hangouts and bars, before mint tea and sundowners at the legendary Café Hafa. The next morning, explore the Caves of Hercules, said to be where the divine hero slept, with an afternoon at leisure with your guide and driver at your disposal.
Days 7 — 8
Relax in Rabat
Follow the Atlantic Coast to the kingdom’s modern capital, Rabat. A laidback city of palm-lined boulevards with abundant heritage, spend the day visiting monuments such as the 12th century Hassan Mosque and ramparts, the ancient ruins of Chellah and the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.
Days 8 — 10
Wild western coast
Oualidia is a small village on the Atlantic, facing a sheltered crescent-shaped lagoon and beach where the ocean and coast merge. The surrounding scenery is a haven for wildlife and the area is renowned for oysters, best tasted plucked straight from the azure sea.
Based out of a beautiful water-side property, there are a range of experiences whether you want to relax and explore – head out fishing on a local boat, ride horses on the beach, enjoy a picnic on a secluded stretch of sand or indulge in the spa.
Days 10 — 13
End in Essaouira
Finally reach the handsome old port of Essaouira, an important anchorage dating back to antiquity. Essaouira’s golden age saw it as the main link between Saharan camel trains from Timbuktu to Europe and the world while the 20th century its charm attracted actors, rock stars and hippies.
A local will guide you around the whitewashed medina, from the lively port, around the historic battlements and the narrow streets behind and you’ll head out of town to be welcomed into a Berber home and visit a female-owned argan oil producing cooperative. And if you’re feeling active, spend a morning at a nearby beach trying your hand at kite, wind or board surfing with an expert coach.
Start your adventure here
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
