From the Souk to the Sahara
Exploring Morocco’s Ancient Traditions
Morocco | 16 Days | FROM $10,990
departs March 21, 2026
Travel with Dr. Shirley Campbell
Morocco is a feast for the senses, with exotic spices, bustling medinas, colorful souks, amazing monuments, one of the world’s most outstanding cuisines, and warm hospitality. Travel from the timeless walled city of Fes to the lively medina in Marrakech, visit Berber families to learn about their traditions, and stay at a luxurious desert camp among the Sahara dunes. Wander ancient alleyways, discover historic architecture, browse quality handicrafts, marvel at the shifting Sahara sands, and soak in the High Atlas Mountains. Enjoy hiking and a two-night stay at the award-winning Kasbah Tamadot. To reduce the long drive times often part of Moroccan itineraries, this program was expertly designed to include high-speed rail and air travel.
Three moments you’ll never forget
Experience the breathtaking dunes of the Sahara Desert with a night at the luxurious Erg Chigaga Desert Camp, where you’ll unwind around a campfire dinner and marvel at the stars twinkling in the clear desert sky.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Volubilis, wandering through its well-preserved mosaics and ancient ruins. Afterwards, savor a delightful lunch paired with local wines at a charming winery in Meknes, immersing yourself in the flavors of the region.
Roam the enchanting streets of Chefchaouen, known as the “Blue City,” set against the stunning backdrop of the Rif Mountains. Capture the city’s unique blue-washed architecture and soak in its serene atmosphere, perfect for photography and cultural exploration.
SOCIAL Anthropologist
Go with Shirley
Growing up just east of San Francisco, Shirley was already a curious ‘traveller’, exploring local landscapes during her formative years. Finding bone fragments and stone tools, artifacts of Native Californians, her interests were piqued. Shirley has specialized in studying the anthropology of art, convinced that understanding the ways people represent their ideas through art, in its broader...DAY 1
CASABLACA, MOROCO
Arrive in Casablanca and transfer to The Onomo Casablanca Airport Hotel. Enjoy leisure time to relax after your journey. In the evening, gather with Shirley and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.
DAY 2
CASABLACA/ ERG CHIGAGA
Fly to Zagora Airport for the start of your desert adventure. Visit Tamegroute’s pottery workshops and continue to Mhamid. Travel through diverse terrain to Erg Chigaga, where a luxurious desert camp awaits. Immerse yourself in the Sahara’s serene beauty. Overnight at Erg Chigaga Luxury Desert Camp.
DAY 3
ERG CHIGAGA / OUARZAZATE
Watch a stunning sunrise over Erg Chigaga’s dunes. Enjoy morning activities in the Sahara before journeying to Ouarzazate via the Draa River Valley. Pass through the “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs” and arrive in Ouarzazate for the night at Le Berber Palace.
DAY 4
OUARZAZATE / MARRAKECH
Explore Ouarzazate’s history, starting at the Kasbah of Taourirt. Visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-protected village, before traveling to Marrakech via the Atlas Mountains’ Tizi N’Tichka pass. Check into Riad La Maison Arabe for three nights.
DAY 5
MARRAKECH
Discover medieval Marrakech’s authentic side, exploring historic quarters, ancient sites, and artisan workshops. Enjoy free time for personal exploration and dining.
DAY 6
MARRAKECH
Visit Majorelle Gardens and the YSL Museum. Later, join a cooking class to learn the art of tagine-making and savor a communal dinner.
DAY 7
MARRAKECH / ATLAS MOUNTAINS
Travel to Kasbah Tamadot in the Atlas Mountains, passing through Berber villages. Enjoy the evening at the retreat with views of Mount Toubkal.
DAY 8
ATLAS MOUNTAINS
Immerse in local mountain life with bread-making, ceramics, and weaving workshops. Visit a charity preschool and engage with the community.
DAY 9
ATLAS MOUNTAINS / FEZ
Return to Marrakech and fly to Fez. Check into Hotel Sahrai for three nights in the ancient royal city.
DAY 10
FEZ
Explore Fez el Bali’s markets, schools, and artisan workshops. Visit historical sites including the Medersa and Karaouine Mosque.
DAY 11
MEKNES & VOLUBILIS
Excursion to Volubilis and Meknes. Explore Roman ruins, Bab Mansour gate, and the Bou Inania Medersa before returning to Fez.
DAY 12
FEZ / CHEFCHAOUEN
Travel to Chefchaouen, known for its blue-washed medina. Explore the Kasbah and enjoy a guided tour of this charming town. Overnight at Lina Riad.
DAY 13
CHEFCHAOUEN / TANGIER
Tour Chefchaouen’s landmarks and crafts workshops. Journey to Tangier for a two-night stay at Hotel Le Barcelo.
DAY 14
TANGIER
Explore Tangier’s medina and visit Cap Spartel for stunning ocean views. Enjoy free time to discover the city’s cultural treasures.
DAY 15
TANGIER / CASABLANCA
Travel by fast train to Casablanca. Visit the Hassan II Mosque and explore the city’s art deco architecture. Enjoy a farewell dinner at Le Hotel Casablanca.
DAY 16
CASABLANCA / HOMEWARD
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight home from Casablanca.
trip details
March 21, 2026 – April 5, 2026
DEPARTURE
The trip starts and ends in Casablanca, Morocco.
“We rarely learn about the prominence of Morocco in world history. Yet, it is a part of the world steeped in ancient beginnings, historical significance and contemporary relevance. I can’t wait to explore the breadth and depth of Morocco with you!”
— shirley campbell
Where You’ll Stay
Erg Chigaga Luxury Desert Camp
Blends traditional Berber design with comfort. Tents have plush rugs, solar-powered lighting, armchairs with ottomans, and storage. Beds feature high-quality mattresses, cotton sheets, and choice of pillows. Bathrooms include a toilet, dressing room, and premium toiletries. Offers a sustainable bucket wash with hot and cold water.
La Maison Arabe Riad
Located near Jemaa el Fna Square, this historic 37-room retreat combines traditional riad charm with luxury. Established in the 1940s, it offers Moroccan and international cuisine, a renowned cooking school, a piano-jazz bar, and hammam treatments.
Kasbah Tamadot
Sir Richard Branson’s retreat in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, offering a magical getaway with views of Mount Toubkal. Near Asni village, it features individually decorated accommodations with traditional Moroccan furnishings and antiques from former owner Luciano Tempo.
Hotel Sahrai
Set on a hilltop overlooking the ancient medina of Fez, Hotel Sahrai blends contemporary elegance with traditional Moroccan craftsmanship. Its airy interiors, arched colonnades, and custom-designed furnishings create a serene and stylish retreat. Unwind at the luxurious Givenchy Spa, savor refined Moroccan and international cuisine, and enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline—making Hotel Sahrai an ideal base for exploring the cultural richness of Fez.
More Detail
PRICING
Per Person: $10,990
Single Supplement: $3,990
DEPOSIT
$1,500
GROUP SIZE
14 travelers
What’s Included
Ready to Go?
Save your spot on our expedition by booking now.
March 21, 2026 – April 5, 2026