11-Nights Morocco Odyssey from $4,528

This 12-day Moroccan small group vacation includes intimate experiences and unique cultural encounters as you journey across this North African nation. Begin in romantic Casablanca, where the old French quarter of Habous and the massive Hassan II Mosque give you a perfect introduction to the grandeur of Moroccan architecture. In Rabat, discover one of the finest kasbahs in the nation and iconic Hassan Tower before you settle into a riad for the night, a traditional Moroccan inn known for its lovely architecture and inner courtyard. After a stop in the remarkable Roman ruins of Volubilis, start your journey through the imperial cities of Morocco. First up is Meknes, an opulent city built in the 17th century to rival the decadence of King Louis XIV’s Versailles. You’ll see the Bab Mansour gateway, perhaps the most notable gate in the nation, before you continue to Fes to explore some of the 9,000 narrow lanes and alleys of Fes El Balil, learn about the Jewish heritage of New Fes, and visit a local tannery in the leather souk to learn to craft your own leather.

Bid the cities farewell as you journey into the Sahara Desert, stopping in the alpine resort town of Ifrane and Erfoud, the gateway to the Sahara, before you reach your desert camp for the night. Rise at dawn to ride a camel before you head into the High Atlas Mountains to see the 985 ft (300 m) high walls of Todra Gorge and visit the rose town of El Kelaa M’Gouna. Enjoy a touch of Hollywood glamour in Ouarzazate, home to Ait Ben Haddou fortress, known for its appearances in Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and other popular movies and TV shows. Then cross the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech, the definitive imperial city of Morocco. Explore the mosques, ancient landmarks, palaces, and squares of the Red City before you recharge in a hammam, a traditional Moroccan spa. Detour into the nearby valleys of Imlil and Ourika to learn about the traditions of the Indigenous Berber people. A Berber cooking experience reveals the secrets of Berber flavours, while a wine tasting showcases Moroccan viticulture. Swing by the port city of Essaouira, known for its iconic blue fishing boats, before returning to Marrakech for a free day before wrapping up your small group trip to Morocco.