Souk up the atmosphere: Luxury holidays in Morocco
Known for its bustling souks and intricately-decorated riads, Morocco deserves a spot at the top of any adventurer’s bucket list. Sun-soaked streets call out to be explored, the Sahara Desert is only a camel ride away, and the Atlas Mountains provide exciting treks through incredible scenery. For unique experiences in Morocco, interactive workshops, taught by locals, are the perfect way to try something new while learning about the culture.
Who is this trip for?
Morocco is a dream destination for anyone searching for adventure, luxury and authenticity – from families with older kids, to romantic honeymooners and groups of friends.
What you’ll get up to in Morocco
Your Moroccan adventure will take you across Rabat, Fez, Chefchaouen, Erfoud, the Sahara Desert, Skoura, Essaouira and Marrakech.
Rabat:
The capital of Morocco is home to the Moroccan Royal Family. The city blends modernity and old-world charm, with streets begging to be explored. So, who better to show you the sights than a local? Immerse yourself in ruins and historical landmarks, and soak up the culture as you go back to the future exploring contemporary art galleries and museums. The Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is filled with thought-provoking artworks, while the Rabat Archaeological Museum is home to fascinating objects uncovered during excavations. The pretty medina and port areas are perfect for sipping fragrant mint tea. Explore the history of Rabat at the Chellah, a fascinating walled-ruin-of-a-town that deserves a good wander around.
Experience the spectacular Andalusian gardens of the Oudaya Kasbah for a breath of fresh air. Cut off from the rest of the world with ancient walls surrounding the serene gardens. It’s the ultimate way to find inner peace (at least until you head to the next market).
Fez (Fes):
Known as Morocco's cultural and spiritual capital, Fez is vibrant and artistic, with more music, good food and historical buildings than you could shake a stick at, including one of the oldest medinas in the Arabian world. Souks (markets) fill the air with wafts of spices and the freshest produce. Our local guide will walk you through the charming medina, with access to ancient palaces and Islamic gardens. Fez’s artistic nature radiates from traditional artisans using age-old techniques like carving, copper-bashing, weaving and leather-dying. It’s also home to the annual music and arts Sufi Festival and the World Sacred Music Festival. For more information and ideas on Fez read our, “Holiday in Fes” article.
Chefchaouen:
This is Morocco’s famous blue city (where you’ll feel anything but). Spot the Rif Mountains as you stroll past stunning pastel-blue buildings with red-tiled roofs. The looming mountains are said to resemble goat horns, and coincidentally goat’s cheese is one of the region’s favoured delicacies – the creamier, the better. Explore this wonderful mountain village and look at the artisanal woollen handicrafts.
Skoura:
Often called the Valley of One Thousand Kasbahs, you might find a few Kasbahs (fortresses) in Skoura. It’s an oasis lined with palm groves, set against a backdrop of the High Atlas Mountains and desert landscapes. Explore gardens filled with pomegranates, apples, pears, figs, quince fruits and olive trees.
Essaouira:
Step out of the city and onto the beach in Essaouira. The moniker for this picturesque fishing town as the ‘Wind City of Africa’ makes it a hotspot for windsurfers. Spice-scented lanes add to the calming feel of this bohemian paradise. We can see why it was once a favourite haunt of Jimi Hendrix and Bob Marley! The lovely white-washed medina is the perfect spot for browsing arts and crafts, most notably woodcarvings – they’re famous for being one of the oldest artistic forms in the town, and still cherished today.
Atlas Mountains:
Explore the quaint village of Imlil at the base of Jebel Toubkal, the highest mountain in North Africa. The draw of the High Atlas peaks has transformed this small village into a bustling trailhead without eroding its character. Discuss the food-growing techniques with the local farmers and go on a hike to truly discover this stunning mountain scenery. This beautiful area is set in picturesque walnut groves watered by the streams of the High Atlas Mountains.
Marrakech:
The jewel in the crown of Morocco and a feast for the senses (fancy trying steaming snail soup?). Wander through endless souks to find an array of handmade textiles and ceramics while you savour the scent of spices and listen to age-old storytellers. Marrakech is the perfect blend of rich artisanal heritage with a modern art scene. Immerse yourself in the culture as you take part in a private showing of Voice Gallery by the gallery’s director, Rocco Orlacchio, who sits on the board of the Marrakech Biennale (he definitely knows his stuff).
When you’re ready to escape the hustle and bustle, the enchanting and mysterious Jardin Majorelle gardens will be waiting for you.
Check out our “Top 10 Places in Morocco”
EXPERIENCES: The positive impacts for you and Morocco:
Our trips aren’t just about showing you what’s out there – we help you get involved. Authentic and engaging travel experiences are what we do best. We work with suppliers in Morocco who we know personally, so we can vouch for the positive impact they have on protecting the local environment, heritage and economic sustainability of each region as well as their focus on equality and inclusion. On your adventure to Morocco we can include these great experiences - or chose from many more during our trip design process:
Arabian Natural Beauty Secrets Workshop
Learning from local artisans helps preserve the culture and history, and benefits the community economically, while giving you the chance to learn something new.
Rhassoul is a cosmetic made of unique natural mineral clay from the Atlas Mountains. This experience will have you sipping Moroccan tea and chatting with local artisans as they teach you how to make your own "rhassoul."
You’ll be taken through the traditional products, like argan oil (produced from indigenous Moroccan trees), sabun bildi and eau de fleur, so you understand the properties of the ingredients, how and why they are used, and the benefits they provide. After, you’ll unwind in a medina hammam (a spa) to try out your rhassoul with traditional Arabian body treatments for the ultimate relaxation. Absorb the rituals and culture of the local Moroccan women while your skin absorbs the nutrients.
Gourmet Tasting Trail
As well as nourishing your soul, nourish your body on a tasting trail with a local Fez food expert. Did you know honey is really important in Moroccan cooking and Islamic culture? Find out why as you sample a delicious array in the honey souks. You’ll also taste other traditional treats, like dried meats, harsha, briwats, spicy sardines, and fresh goat’s cheese, before visiting a traditional Moroccan tea house.
PUSH YOUR BOUNDARIES: Try something new…
To get more out of your precious holiday time, we find unique experiences in Morocco you might never have heard of before. Bond with your loved ones, challenge yourself and let your stresses float away as you make lifelong memories. You’ll be sharing these stories for years to come:
See the real Sahara Desert with an overnight camel excursion
Experience an unforgettable adventure as a skilled nomad guide leads you through the vast and majestic desert, on a trusty camel, to your very own bivouac shelter. Once there, you can relax, soak up the atmosphere, or get active and scale the towering sand dunes. The mesmerising colours of the rising and setting sun over the dunes make for a truly magical experience. After a day of exploring and excitement, enjoy an authentic evening meal prepared by your guide, and gaze up at the stars in front of a flickering campfire. *Bucket list item ticked*.
Experience a cooking class at Jnane Tamsna with Chef Bahija
Discover local dishes and spices at the renowned Jnane Tamsa hotel. Chef Bahija’s popular cooking classes have been featured on television worldwide (so you know they’re good)! Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours as you learn how to make the finest Moroccan dishes and Marrakech specialties (you’ll dream of those aromas for weeks afterwards).
SLEEP IN STYLE: Our top hotel picks:
Morocco’s luxury hotels come in all shapes and sizes. Of course, you could stay at the Four Seasons… but wouldn’t you rather stay in a quirkier boutique riad? Riads are traditional Moroccan houses built around an indoor courtyard, and converted into hotels. When we say they’re beautiful, we really mean it!
Fairmont La Marina Rabat-Salé (Rabat):
Our top choice for Rabat is the Fairmont La Marina Rabat-Salé. This luxurious hotel blends timeless culture with a modern appeal. Unwind and enjoy simply incredible rooftop views from this ideal central location.
Karawan Riad and Le Jardin des Biehn (Fez):
Surround yourself with handcrafted zellije (glazed mosaic tiles), delicate wrought iron-work, filigree lanterns, silk embroidery and richly painted wood at the Karawan Riad, for a true Moroccan experience.
In the heart of a vast Andalusian garden, offering its flowers, aromatic herbs, fruits and vegetables in the shade of palms and olive trees, Le Jardin des Biehn is waiting for you amongst the foliage. Recharge in this oasis of calm.
Kasbah Hotel Xaluca (Erfoud):
Find relaxation and wellness at the door to the desert in Kasbah Hotel Xaluca. Explore the exotic grounds with a touch of history and whimsy against traditional Moroccan interiors.
White Camel Acacia Camp (Merzouga):
Experience the desert in style with a luxury glamping tent at White Camel Acacia Camp. Located in the remote and idyllic sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, embrace the great outdoors as you disconnect and unwind with the welcoming hospitality Morocco’s known for.
Dar Ahlam (Skoura):
Sitting at the edge of the Moroccan desert, this 200-year-old Kasbah is surrounded by palm groves and blossoming almond trees, nestled in a haven of manicured lawns. This champagne-coloured hideaway overlooks the Atlas Mountains, and is thoughtfully crafted from local materials. Authenticity runs deep, as this hotel is community-minded and purchases ingredients from local souks and women’s associations. Luxury and sustainability meet at Dar Ahlam, making this the ultimate retreat for soothing the body, mind and soul.
L'Heure Bleue Palais (Essaouira):
With a classic and elegant style, this beautiful riad is steeped in history. Enjoy the panoramic views from the roof terrace of L'Heure Bleue Palais, and watch the sun set over the old town after a day exploring the streets.
La Maison Arabe, La Sultana and Riad Adore (Marrakech):
There are so many luxurious hotels in Marrakech. A popular favourite is La Maison Arabe, an authentic haven of calm that echoes the city’s rich history and culture, and has been known as one of Marrakech’s finest dining experiences since 1946.
La Sultana opts for luxury in simplicity, combining plush scenery with a philosophy for living in the great outdoors. Traditional terracotta tiles meet jade-green mosaics under palm trees that sway in the breeze.
If you’re looking for an authentic riad, look no further than Riad Adore (we know you’ll adore it as much as we do). This contemporary gem is nestled near the historic souks and bustling main square. The modern décor beautifully merges with the traditional riad style, with all the creature comforts you could need.
What do you think?
We would love to hear what you think about this example for a trip to Morocco. Of course, there are a myriad of ways we can tailor a trip to Morocco to your tastes, interests, goals and budget. Get in touch, and let's chat.
Further Reading on Morocco:
At The Curious Travel Company , we want to make the world a better place through ethical, responsible and sustainable travel practices. We choose the most authentic and engaging travel experiences to give you unparalleled access to extraordinary people, places and properties.
Your safety is our priority. We personally know all of our tour operators so we can vouch for their expertise and reliability. You don’t need to worry about anything (other than remembering your toothbrush and passport).
We look forward to hearing from you about this, or any other destination you are thinking of visiting.
