15-Day Grand Tour of Morocco & Egypt

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech, Airport Transfer and Free Day

Upon your arrival at Marrakech Airport, our company representative will be ready to welcome you in the arrivals area. Look for a signboard bearing your name. After a warm meet and greet, you’ll be transferred from the airport to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax and enjoy at your leisure.

• Overnight in Marrakech
• Included Meal(s): No meals are included on this day
• Accommodation: Diwane Hotel & Spa OR Riad Aubrac OR Hotel Les Ambassadeurs or similar (Standard quality)

Day 2: Marrakech to Dades – Exploring Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate, and Roses Valley

Your journey begins with a drive across the majestic High Atlas Mountains. The first significant stop is the historical Ait Benhaddou village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its traditional caravan routes and as a backdrop in famous movies like “Gladiator” and “Prince of Persia,” as well as the “Game of Thrones” series. Next, the trip leads to Ouarzazate, often referred to as the ‘Hollywood of North Africa’, known for its film studios. Along the way to Boumalen Dades for an overnight stay, you’ll traverse the picturesque Roses Valley, famous for its lush Damaskina Roses and the annual harvest festival. The day wraps up with an overnight stay in the breathtaking Dades Valley, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and unique geological formations, showcasing a rich blend of Morocco’s history, cultural heritage, and diverse landscapes.

• Overnight in Dades
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Dar Rihana or similar (Standard quality)

Day 3: Dades Valley to Merzouga – Discovering Toudra Gorges, Erfoud, and Sahara Desert Adventure

After breakfast, your journey leads east towards the Sahara, beginning with a visit to the Toudra Gorges, often likened to the ‘Grand Canyon of Morocco’, showcasing the area’s stunning natural beauty. The adventure continues to Erfoud, a city celebrated for its unique fossils and fossilized marble, offering a fascinating glimpse into the geological history of the region. A delightful lunch stop in Rissani immerses you in local flavors and culture. The highlight of the day is the transition to the Sahara Desert. Here, you can choose to traverse the sand dunes on camelback to reach your Berber camp for the night or opt for a 4WD ride to the camp at an additional cost. Upon arrival, there’s time to relax and soak in the desert ambiance before dinner. The day concludes with an enchanting overnight stay at a desert camp, offering an experience akin to the Desert Experience Camp. This leg of your journey is a thrilling exploration of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, blending rugged gorges with the expansive sands of the Sahara.

• Overnight in Merzouga
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Accommodation: Berber desert camp or similar (Standard quality)

Day 4: Merzouga to Fes – Journey Through Errachidia, ZIZ Valley, and Atlas Mountains

After breakfast and a refreshing shower at the Berber camp, your journey takes you through the city of Errachidia and the lush ZIZ Valley, renowned for its abundant date palms. The journey continues as you cross both the High and Middle Atlas Mountains, serving as a natural barrier separating the Sahara desert from the interior regions of Morocco. The day’s travels culminate in the arrival at Fes, the oldest capital of Morocco, rich in history and culture, where you will spend the night. Your stay in Fes promises a blend of historical exploration and relaxation, offering a perfect end to an eventful day. Overnight accommodation is arranged in a local hotel, providing comfort and a taste of Moroccan hospitality.

• Overnight in Fes
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Arena Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 5: Exploring the Ancient City of Fes

Today’s guided tour takes you through Fes, the oldest and largest medieval city in the world. Its medina, home to 400,000 inhabitants and accessible only by donkeys and bikes, is a vibrant amalgamation of aromas, sights, and sounds. Although entry to mosques is restricted to Muslims, there are numerous palaces and other historic sites to explore. The tour includes visits to the famous dye-pits, tanneries, and pottery workshops, immersing you in the city’s rich artisan traditions. After a day filled with exploration, return to your hotel to freshen up. The evening offers a chance to experience traditional Moroccan culture with a special meal in the city, accompanied by live entertainment, including traditional dancing, belly dancing, and magicians, providing a perfect end to your day in Fes. The night concludes with an overnight stay at a local hotel, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience.

• Overnight in Fes
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Arena Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 6: Journey from Fes to the Blue City of Chefchaouen

After breakfast, you will embark on a drive towards Chefchaouen, the picturesque ‘blue city’ nestled in the Rif Mountains, just south of the Mediterranean coastline in northwest Morocco. This popular tourist destination is celebrated for its beautifully traditional buildings. Spend time exploring the medina, characterized by its white and blue-washed walls, and wander through markets offering unique native handicrafts. Chefchaouen stands out as a haven for photography enthusiasts, thanks to its stunning views of the Rif Mountains. The day offers an opportunity to dine in one of the local restaurants within the medina, indulging in authentic Moroccan cuisine. The experience in Chefchaouen is not just about sightseeing but also immersing yourself in the tranquility and artistic charm of the city. The day concludes with an overnight stay at a local hotel, ensuring a restful end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.

• Overnight in Chefchaouen
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Hotel Dar Echchaouen or similar (Standard quality)

Day 7: Chefchaouen to Casablanca via Rabat

After breakfast, you will travel south to Rabat, the official capital of Morocco. Upon arrival, a guided tour will take you to explore the city’s highlights, including the Royal Palace, the iconic Hassan Tower, and the Oudaya Kasbah. Each of these sites offers a unique insight into the rich history and architectural heritage of Rabat. Following the tour of Rabat, you will continue your journey to Casablanca, the economic heart of Morocco. The transition from the traditional charm of Rabat to the bustling modernity of Casablanca presents a fascinating contrast. Your day concludes with an overnight stay at a hotel in Casablanca, offering a comfortable end to a day filled with historical exploration and cultural insights.

• Overnight in Casablanca
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Val D’anfa Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 8: Casablanca to Cairo – Final Day in Morocco and Flight to Egypt (Excluding Casablanca/Cairo Flight)

On the final day of your Moroccan adventure, if your flight is scheduled for the afternoon, you have the opportunity to visit the stunning Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. This mosque, known for its incredible architecture and scale, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. If your flight is earlier, you will be provided with a transfer to Mohamed V Airport in Casablanca for your journey to Cairo. Upon arrival at Cairo airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay in Cairo, marking the beginning of your Egyptian exploration. This day serves as a transition from the rich cultural tapestry of Morocco to the ancient wonders of Egypt.

• Overnight in Cairo
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Pyramisa Suites Hotel and Casino OR Hilton Cairo Heliopolis or similar (Standard quality)

Day 9: Exploring the Wonders of Cairo – Pyramids, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum, and Khan El Khalili

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel around 8:30 am to start an incredible day exploring the ancient wonders of Egypt. Your first stop is the Giza plateau, where you’ll be awe-struck by the majestic Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx, quintessential symbols of Egypt’s ancient civilization.

Next, the tour takes you to a papyrus factory, where you can witness the traditional art of making papyrus, an essential aspect of ancient Egyptian culture and history.

The journey continues to the Egyptian Museum, a repository of Egypt’s glorious past, housing a vast collection of artifacts, including the famous Tutankhamun collection. This visit provides a deeper understanding of the rich Egyptian history and heritage.

Following the museum, you’ll delve into the vibrant atmosphere of the Khan El Khalili Bazaar. This historic marketplace is a hub of activity, with its myriad of souvenir shops, traditional coffee houses, and local crafts, perfect for experiencing Cairo’s bustling life and picking up unique souvenirs.

After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel around 4:00 pm. The rest of the day is yours to relax, further explore the city at your own pace, or participate in any optional activities available. This flexible evening offers the perfect opportunity to unwind or engage in additional explorations, making the most of your time in Cairo.

• Overnight in Cairo
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
• Accommodation: Pyramisa Suites Hotel and Casino OR Hilton Cairo Heliopolis or similar (Standard quality)

Day 10: Flight to Aswan and Day Tour – High Dam, Temple of Philae, and Nile Cruise (Cruise every Friday or Monday)

After breakfast, check out from your Cairo hotel and transfer to Cairo airport for your flight to Aswan. Upon arrival in Aswan, you will start the day with a morning tour of the famous High Dam of Aswan, a marvel of modern engineering. Next on your itinerary is a visit to the enchanting Temple of Philae, known for its romantic ambiance and rich history. Following this, you’ll have a chance to visit a perfume shop, a unique opportunity to explore Egypt’s fragrant tradition of perfume making. After these visits, you’ll be transferred to your Nile Cruise. Enjoy lunch on board, followed by a relaxing evening with dinner, and spend the night on your 5-star Nile cruise, experiencing the tranquility and beauty of the Nile. This day combines historical exploration with the luxury and comfort of a Nile cruise, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

• Overnight on Cruise Ship
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11: Nile Cruise – Exploring Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples

(Optional extra early morning trip to Abu Simbel by road – without missing any part of the tour)

After enjoying breakfast on your Nile cruise, you’ll have some leisure time to take in the tranquil beauty of the Nile. Following lunch on board, the cruise will take you to the remarkable Kom Ombo Temples, an extraordinary site with twin temples dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris. This visit offers a unique glimpse into ancient Egyptian religion and architecture.

As the cruise continues, you’ll arrive in Edfu, where the splendid Edfu Temple awaits. Dedicated to the god Horus, this temple stands as one of the most well-preserved ancient structures in Egypt, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the ancient Egyptians.

The day concludes with dinner and a comfortable overnight stay on your luxurious 5-star Nile cruise, providing a serene environment to reflect on the day’s historical explorations and the timeless beauty of the Nile.

• Overnight on Cruise Ship
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 12: Journey from Edfu to Luxor – Exploring Edfu and Luxor Temples on the Nile Cruise

Begin your day with a unique visit to Edfu Temple, traveling there by horse carriage, an experience that adds a charming touch to your exploration. After marveling at the temple, return to the Nile cruise for breakfast, then continue your journey sailing towards Luxor.

Enjoy lunch onboard as you cruise along the Nile, experiencing the passage through the Esna lock. You are expected to arrive in Luxor around 05.00 PM. In Luxor, embark on a tour of the East Bank, where the magnificent Luxor Temple awaits. This ancient temple is steeped in Egypt’s history and is a breathtaking sight, especially in the evening light.

The day concludes with an overnight stay on the cruise in Luxor, allowing you to rest and reflect on the day’s historical discoveries while nestled on the banks of the Nile.

• Overnight on Cruise Ship
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 13: Luxor West Bank and Karnak Temple Tour, Followed by Flight to Cairo

(Optional early morning trip to Hot air balloon over the West Bank, without missing any part of the tour)

After breakfast and disembarkation, you will start your exploration of Luxor’s West Bank. Your first visit is to the imposing Colossi of Memnon, the monumental remnants of Amenophis III’s temple. Following this, delve into the world-famous Valley of the Kings, home to the tombs of ancient pharaohs. A stop at an Alabaster factory offers insights into local craftsmanship.

Your tour continues to the majestic Temple of Hatshepsut (Deir al-Bahri), an architectural marvel dedicated to one of Egypt’s most powerful female pharaohs. After exploring these significant historical sites, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Later, you will be transferred to Luxor airport to catch your flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival in Cairo, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay, concluding a day rich with ancient Egyptian history and culture.

• Overnight in Cairo
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
• Accommodation: Pyramisa Suites Hotel and Casino OR Hilton Cairo Heliopolis or similar (Standard quality)

Day 14: Optional tour to Alexandria City or Free day in Cairo to explore

After breakfast, today you will have a free day in Cairo to use at your leisure. If you’re interested in further exploring Egypt’s rich history and culture, you can opt to join an additional, optional tour to Alexandria City at an extra cost. This day offers the flexibility to either relax and explore Cairo at your own pace or discover the charming and historical sights of Alexandria.

• Overnight in Cairo
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Pyramisa Suites Hotel and Casino OR Hilton Cairo Heliopolis or similar (Standard quality)

Day 15: Departure from Cairo – End of Tour Service

After breakfast, you will check out from your hotel in Cairo (hotel check-out is before 12:00 noon) and will then be transferred to the Cairo International Airport according to your flight details. This will be the end of our tour and services.

• Included Meal(s): Breakfast

INCLUDED in the Tour Price:

• All airport transfer services mentioned in the itinerary
• All airport transfers by private, air-conditioned vehicle
• 14 nights accommodation in hotels, desert camp, and Nile cruise ship, as described in the itinerary
• Meals: 14 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
• English-speaking tour guide in Egypt
• English-speaking driver in Morocco
• Domestic flights from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo
• Entrances fees to sites as per the program
• All service charges and taxes on services

NOT INCLUDED:

• International Flight Tickets.
• Flight ticket from Casablanca to Cairo.
• Visa to enter Morocco & Egypt.
• Upgrades.
• Beverages for all meals.
• Tips for guides and drivers.
• Optional tours mentioned in the program, they will be provided at an additional cost.
• Services not mentioned in the program.
• Travel insurance (recommended).