Journey to Morocco
Richard & Lisa Witten
March 28 - April 8, 2026
Updated March 27, 2026These clients are flying in private, we need their charter flight details.
Itinerary Outline
Mar. 28 - 31 | Fez | Karawan Riad (Early Check-in & 2 nights)
Mar. 31 - Apr. 3 | Marrakech | Royal Mansour (3 nights)
Apr. 3 - 5 | High Atlas Mountains | Kasbah Tamadot (2 nights)
Apr. 5 - 8 | Skoura Valley | Dar Ahlam (3 nights)
Apr. 8 | Departure
Guide: March 29 - April 2
Mr. Achraf +212 665 660045
Driver: March 29 - April 4
Mr. Yassin +212 603 122 895
Guide in the Atlas Mountains: April 4
Mr. Lahsen +212 6 66 23 82 00
Should any emergency arise, please contact Achraf first as he is on the ground and able to assist you the quickest.
24-hour Emergency Contacts
Mr. Achraf +212 665 660045 (Whatsapp)
Federico: +54 9 11 6912-0600 (Whatsapp)
Back-up Emergency Team
Sarah Casewit: +34-663-380-582 (Whatsapp)
Contact Details
Fez: Pleasant spring days, around 68–72°F, with crisp evenings. Light breezes, mostly sunny.
Rabat: Mild coastal weather, 68–73°F, partly sunny with occasional clouds.
Marrakech: Warm and sunny, 73–79°F during the day, cooler nights around 54–59°F.
High Atlas Mountains: Chilly and clear, 54–63°F by day, near freezing at night (28–32°F); possible snow at higher altitudes.
Skoura Valley: Sunny and dry, 72–77°F during the day, evenings cooler at 54–57°F.
Weather
Driver: $20-30 per day / 200-300 Dirhams.
Guide: $25-40 per day / 250-400 Dirhams depending on length and quality of the tour.
Hotel Porters: $1–2 per bag / 10-20 Dirhams.
Housekeeping: $2–5 per night / 20-50 Dirhams.
Restaurants: Tip 10% in cash if possible.
Loose Spending: Coffee/snacks, market buys, small souvenirs: $20–40 per day / 200-400 Dirhams.
Morocco is mostly card-friendly, but for tipping and small vendors, having small bills and coins is key.
Tipping
What's in your bag?Lightweight layers (T-shirts, breathable long-sleeve shirts, linen tops)
A fleece or light knit for cooler mornings or air-conditioned spaces
Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers or supportive sandals)
Lightweight pants or flowy trousers (your most reached-for item across medinas and souks)
One or two dressier outfits for rooftop bars or nicer dinners
Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
Hat or cap for sun protection
Compact rain jacket (occasional showers possible)
Sturdy hiking shoes or trail boots if hiking
A light scarf or wrap for sun cover and shoulder cover for religious sites
Insect repellent for evenings and nature areas
Try to dress as closely to the locals as you can. Covered shoulders and knees are appreciated in the medinas and smaller villages. You don't need to wear a headscarf, but keep that scarf handy in your bag.
Suggested Packing list
Mar. 29 | Fez
VIP Airport Services & Private Transfer
8:00am: Arrival at the Fez Saiss Airport (FEZ) where you will be assisted with VIP airport services through immigration and customs. Meet your guide at the arrivals terminal and private transfer to your hotel in Fez – a city founded in 789 by Idris I.
Early check-in has been guaranteed for you this morning as we have booked your suite for the night before.
Welcome to Fez
As the largest urban car-free UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fez preserves Morocco’s traditions like no other city. It is the spiritual heart not only of Morocco but of North Africa, drawing pilgrims from across the region, including sub-Saharan Africa, to honor its revered saints. The city is a living labyrinth of ancient streets, grand palaces, bustling souks, and artisans practicing centuries-old crafts. Fez is alive—a city that breathes culture and history every single day of the year. To visit Fez is to pay tribute to the founders of the country and experience Morocco’s spiritual essence.
Introductory Walking Tour
From Karawan Riad, set in the quieter Andalusian quarter of Fes el Bali, step into the living labyrinth of the medina with an unhurried walk toward the honeycomb alleys leading to the iconic Chouara Tannery, where centuries-old dye pits create a striking mosaic of color. From there, weave through artisan souks toward the revered Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and its adjoining university, absorbing the architectural details of carved cedar, zellige tile, and intricately worked plaster along the way. Continue walking through spice-scented lanes and metalworkers’ quarters until you reach the monumental blue-tiled arch of Bab Bou Jeloud, the ceremonial gateway to the old city, before looping back through quieter residential streets where daily life unfolds at a gentler rhythm.
Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
This is a beautifully restored 18th-century funduq (traditional caravanserai) in the heart of the old medina that celebrates Morocco’s rich woodworking heritage, showcasing centuries of masterful craftsmanship through an array of intricately carved doors, chests, everyday tools, prayer beads and musical instruments that reflect regional styles and techniques. Housed around a sunlit central courtyard with galleries on three floors, the museum itself is a work of art in cedar wood and stucco, and its rooftop terrace café offers stunning panoramic views over the labyrinthine medina — a serene complement to the tactile beauty of the exhibits.
Dinner Reservation at La Maison Bleue
7:00pm: Dinner reservation at La Maison Bleue. This is the quintessential Fez dining experience. You’ll want to come hungry and ready for a multiple course meal accompanied by live, gentle music of an Oud player. Your driver will take you back to your hotel after dinner.
Karawan Riad | Harmattan Suite | Breakfast
Mar. 30 | Fez
Private Tour with Museum Visits
9:30am: From the heart of the old medina, set out with your private guide and weave through the labyrinth of narrow alleyways that make Fez such a captivating city. You’ll stop at the Al-Attarine Madrasa, a jewel of Marinid architecture, before continuing to the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the world’s oldest continually operating university. Along the way, explore the vibrant Souk el Attarine and spice markets, admire the intricate woodwork at the Bou Inania Madrasa, and witness the age-old leather-dyeing traditions at the famous Chouara Tannery from a panoramic terrace (if you haven’t already visited it the day before). The walk offers an immersive glimpse into the daily rhythm of Fez, where centuries-old craftsmanship and history remain alive at every turn.
Lunch Reservation at Riad Jardin des Biehn
1:00pm: Enter the beautiful gardens of Riad Jardin des Biehn and enjoy lunch at Fez Café.
Zellij Workshop Visit
Step into a traditional Zellij workshop in Fez, where master artisans hand-cut intricate mosaic tiles using centuries-old techniques. Surrounded by the rhythmic chisel of hammer on clay, you’ll witness artistry passed down through generations.
Shopping for Street Food & Crafts
With your expert guide, enjoy a private shopping tour of the Fez medina. On the way, stop by the pastry stalls to try some traditional Maaqouda, Chebbakiya and Briwates. You will be taken to different workshops and ateliers where the famous crafts of Morocco are made by hand. Explore the tanneries and the leather boutiques, stop by the brass workers as they bang away on embellished trays and pots, visit the wood artisans with the famous smell of tetraclinis wood.
Dinner Reservation at Riad Fes
7:00pm: Dinner at the Relais & Chateaux Riad Fes. Inspired by the grand tradition of the Disciples of Escoffier and French flavors, this menu reimagines Moroccan classics with a touch of elegance.
Karawan Riad | Harmattan Suite | Breakfast
Mar. 31 | Rabat & Marrakech
Private Transfer to Marrakech via Meknes & Rabat
9:00am: Greeting by your host and private transfer to Marrakech via Meknes and Rabat. The route reaches Meknes, established as an imperial capital in 1672 under Sultan Moulay Ismail, where key sights include Bab Mansour (completed 1732) and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail (early 1700s).
Rabat Stopover
Continue to Rabat, founded in the 12th century by the Almohads and designated Morocco’s capital in 1912, notable landmarks include the Hassan Tower begun in 1195, the impressive Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Kasbah of the Oudayas dating to the 12th century.
Continue to Marrakech and arrive in the afternoon.
Welcome to Marrakech
"Marrakech is a city where the past and the future coexist in perfect harmony", said Tahir Shah, explorer and writer. This quote the essence of Marrakech, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern influences, creating a vibrant, dynamic atmosphere. I’ve fallen in love with this city, over and over again. Whether you choose to stay in the maze of the old medina for the full experience or just outside the old city walls, Marrakech will dazzle you.
1112 Tea House & Sunset Walk
Before reaching your hotel, go for a sunset walk to Jamaa El Fna Square. Start with Moroccan tea at 1112 Tea House and walking through the old medina to the famous square – a 1000-year old UNESCO site with everything from snake charmers and acrobats, magicians and storytellers, to food stalls and orange juice stands.
Dinner at Sesamo
7:00pm: Dinner reservation at your hotel’s Sesamo restaurant.
Royal Mansour Marrakech | 1 Premier Riad | Breakfast
Royal Mansour Marrakech
The PerksAs a guest of Sarah Casewit at the Royal Mansour Marrakech, you will enjoy the following amenities:
Free WIFI Access
Upgrade upon availability
Early Check-in / Late Check-out upon availability
VIP amenities: fruit basket and mineral water in the room upon arrival
$100 F&B Credit that can be utilized in F&B outlets, room service
Apr. 1 | Marrakech
Side-car Ride Through Marrakech
11:30am: Sidecars will be waiting for you at the entrance of your hotel. Start with the Palmeraie on the outskirts of Marrakech where desert meets palm groves. Then, drive through the old town of Marrakesh to see some of the major historical sites from the outside, that you cannot miss when visiting Marrakesh, including the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs and the Bahia palace. Whizz through the maze of vibrant souks in the heart of the old city.
Ben Youssef Madrasa
1:00pm: End at the Ben Youssef Madrasa where your guide will be waiting for you. Explore this 14th-century Islamic school, known for its stunning architecture, including intricate stucco work, cedar wood, and mosaics. The madrasa offers a window into Morocco’s educational and religious history.
Return back to your hotel for a recommended lunch at Le Jardin. Set within the lush gardens of the Royal Mansour and inspired by the rich Arab-Andalusian tradition, this open-air Asian restaurant offers a sensory dining experience like no other. Here, gourmet cuisine meets a fresh burst of flavor in an atmosphere that blends effortless chic with relaxed elegance.
Royal Mansour Spa (Prepaid by Richard)
3:00pm: Head to the Royal Mansour Spa to prepare for your hammam experience “Step Into Kalaat M’Gouna”.
Private Dinner & Live Music
7:30pm: Greeting by your guide at your hotel lobby and private transfer to a riad in the medina. You will be dropped off and walk 5 minutes with your guide to Riad 42. Here, a special dinner awaits with Sarah’s dear friend and amazing singer Ghizlaine accompanied by Oud player Abdallah. This evening is all about Andalusian music, poetry and the art of remembrance. Afterwards, your driver will escort you back to your hotel.
Royal Mansour Marrakech | 1 Premier Riad | Breakfast, Dinner
Apr. 2 | Marrakech
YSL Museum & Jardin Majorelle
10:15am: Greeting by your guide and private transfer to the YSL Museum.
10:30am: Booked ticket time for your tour of the YSL Museum. This is a striking tribute to the legendary designer's deep connection with Morocco. Designed by Studio KO, its terracotta brick façade evokes woven fabric, blending seamlessly with the city's earthy tones. Inside, visitors can explore over 4,000 m² of space housing Yves Saint Laurent's iconic creations, a research library, and a 140-seat auditorium.
Walk over to the Jardin Majorelle – a vibrant botanical garden in Marrakech, famed for its cobalt blue buildings and exotic plant collection. Once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, it offers a serene escape from the city's bustle.
Art Gallery: La Galerie 38
Visit La Galerie 38 (64 Rue Tarik Ibn Ziad, Gueliz – closed between 1-3pm) which will be displaying a brand new exhibition starting March 17.
Lunch Reservation at Le Petit Cornichon
1:30pm: Lunch reservation at Le Petit Cornichon, a delightful French restaurant in Gueliz.
Marrakech Medina: Le Jardin Secret & Shopping
Option to visit more art galleries in Gueliz or continue to the Jardin Secret with your guide – a beautifully restored 19th-century palace nestled in the heart of Marrakech's medina. Once a private residence, it now offers visitors a serene escape with its two distinct gardens: an Islamic garden reflecting traditional Moroccan design and a more exotic garden showcasing diverse plant species.
Shop in the medina on Rue Sidi Abdelaziz, starting with Mustapha Blaoui famous for his labyrinth of interior design gems. Then step into V. Barkowski next door for the best linen pieces in town. Next walk over to Laly Marrakech and Hanout Boutique. At the end of your shopping spree, private transfer back to your hotel.
Dinner: Dar Yacout
6:40pm: Private transfer to Dar Yacout for your dinner at 7:00pm. Experience ultimate Moroccan dining at Dar Yacout. The food is as magnificent and generous as the palace – a classic four-course feast – and is accompanied by the syncopated rhythms of musicians and the lovely lilting sound of the oud.
Royal Mansour Marrakech | 1 Premier Riad | Breakfast
Apr. 3 | High Atlas Mountains
Transfer to the Atlas Mountains
12:00pm: Private transfer to the High Atlas Mountains (approx. 1.5 hours)
Kasbah Tamadot
1:30pm: Arrive at Kasbah Tamadot in the High Atlas Mountains in time for a recommended lunch overlooking the valley. Perched in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains overlooking the Ouirgane Valley near the village of Asni, the property sits at 4,330ft. Aside from the indoor (heated) and outdoor pools, there’s a four-room spa replete with hammam and Watsu pools, a fully equipped gym, two tennis courts and other facilities surrounded by blooming gardens.
Leisure
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the pool, taking in the spectacular views of the Toubkal National Park. Explore the property’s gardens and orchard. In the evening, have dinner on the terrace of your hotel (weather permitting).
Kasbah Tamadot | Berber Tent with Hot Tub | Breakfast & Dinner
KASBAH TAMADOT
The PerksAs a guest of Sarah Casewit at Kasbah Tamadot, you will enjoy the following amenities:
Free WIFI Access
Upgrade upon availability
Early check-in, Late check-out upon availability
Complimentary breakfast
$100 F&B Credit that can be utilized in F&B outlets and gift shop
Apr. 4 | High Atlas Mountains
Berber Village Trek
10:00am: Your driver will pick you up at Kasbah Tamadot and transfer you to Imlil where you’ll meet your guide at 10:30am. With this expert guide based in the High Atlas Mountains, visit a Berber village for lunch. Follow the road past the Kasbah up to the village of Imlil. Enjoy dazzling views as you traverse the Toubkal National Park, home to highest peak of North Africa. From here, take an off road track to the highest village in North Africa– Arm’ed (2000m). An excellent traditional Berber lunch will be served on the highest roof terrace of the village with stunning views down the mountain. This trip can be combined with a walking excursion with your private guide.
Berber Culture
This experience will introduce your to the ancient culture of the Berbers, the indigenous people of Morocco whose presence in this region of the world dates back to 2,500 BC and beyond. After the arrival of the Arabs in the 8th century, many Berber tribe secluded themselves to the peaks of the High Atlas Mountains for safety and cultural identity survival. In this region of Morocco, many of the Berbers barely speak Arabic and have their own customs.
After your hike, private transfer to Kasbah Tamadot.
Note: You will bid your driver farewell today.
Leisure
Return to Kasbah Tamadot for an afternoon at leisure. You can choose from a variety of local activities to enjoy on the property. Later, enjoy dinner at Kasbah Tamadot.
Kasbah Tamadot | Berber Tent with Hot Tub | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Apr. 5 | Skoura Valley
Transfer to Skoura
10:00am: After breakfast, your Dar Ahlam will be waiting for you to take you on a spectacular journey through the Atlas Mountains, to the Skoura Valley (approx. 4.5 hours). Drive through the soaring mountain range, past remote villages and beautiful changing scenery. As you descend the mountains, you will notice a dramatic shift in the landscape and vegetation, as it turns into a rocky desert.
Ait Ben Haddou (Optional)
Along the way, visit the exquisite fort town of Ait Ben Haddou on an independent basis. This kasbah is famous for Hollywood movie sets. Explore its adobe structure and hidden alleyways, overlooking the valley.
Dar Ahlam
In the afternoon, reach Dar Ahlam, a breathtaking property tucked in the Valley of Skoura near Ouarzazate. After a tour of the hotel’s grounds, enjoy its beautiful gardens and pool. We invite you to experience a traditional Moroccan hammam experience.
At sunset, you will be transferred to a scenic lookout point for a Moroccan tea ceremony.
Return to the kasbah for a special dinner.
Dar Ahlam | Kasbah Suite | Breakfast, Dinner
Apr. 6 & 7 | Skoura Valley
Dar Ahlam Experiences
Dar Ahlam, “the House of Dreams,” is a luxury kasbah in Skoura, Morocco, blending traditional Berber architecture with refined elegance. Surrounded by palm groves and desert landscapes, it offers tailor-made experiences rather than fixed itineraries. Guests are immersed in soulful hospitality, with each moment crafted into a poetic surprise.
Experiences are designed on the spot based on your preference and interest.
After a delicious breakfast in the garden of Dar Ahlam, your guide will take you on a light trek through the Skoura Valley. Explore its orchards and adobe villages with their forts and traditional way of life. You will have a chance to witness a pottery workshop during this excursion and enjoy a camel ride along the way.
Lunch will be served in a secluded bay, exclusively set up for you, with gorgeous views of the valley.
Enjoy an afternoon at leisure for some R&R on the property. Take time to experience its gardens designed by the same landscaper as the one who created the Versailles Gardens. Visit the house of birds. Meet the local community and the organic farm that the chef uses to sources the local ingredients.
Special Dinner
For your final dinner, you will be driver to a secluded gorge in Skoura Valley for an outdoor, candle-lit, dinner experience. You will be surrounded by beautiful rock formations and a flowing stream.*
*This experience is pending availability and weather conditions.
Dar Ahlam | Kasbah Suite | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Apr. 8 | Departure
Travel to Ouarzazate Airport
12:00pm: After a delicious breakfast and morning at leisure, private transfer to Ouarzazate Airport (OZZ), approximately 45 minutes away, where you’ll be able to process customs and immigration, and board your private charter flight home.
Private Charter to New York (Booked Separately)
2:00pm: Board your private charter flight bound for New York.
5:10pm: Flight arrival at New York Westchester.
inclusions
Accommodation: All properties and accommodations as listed in the itinerary in the respective categories outlined in detail above, based on double occupancy.
Transport: All private transfers with a personal driver for the entire trip.
Tours & Activities: All tours, activities and excursions with an expert English-speaking guide as listed in the itinerary, along with the required entrance fees associated with the tours.
Meals: All breakfasts and many meals as indicated in the itinerary.
Other: City taxes associated with your accommodations. Restaurant reservations and coordination. 24-hour emergency contact and on-trip concierge.
Exclusions
Flights
Travel insurance
Tips
Your Travel Curator:
Sarah Casewit
I was born in Marrakech and raised between Fez and Rabat, educated in Moroccan schools and immersed in a fully local way of life. Arabic and French were my first languages, long before English, and they continue to shape how I listen, communicate, and connect with people and places.
Morocco is not simply where I come from, it is part of who I am. The scents of the medina, the unspoken rhythms of daily life, the generosity of families opening their homes, and landscapes unfolding from desert to sea are woven into my identity.
For over fifteen years, I have designed bespoke journeys across the world. And when I curate an experience in Morocco, I bring all of that global expertise home. Each itinerary is guided not only by professional precision, but by a lifetime of intimacy, cultural fluency, and deep personal ties. What I offer is not a trip, but an invitation, into a Morocco that is layered, soulful, and profoundly real.