Moroccan Sun, Sand & Souks: Luxury Tour of Coastal Towns & Marrakesh

El Jadida is more than a coastal destination with sunshine, sand, and golf. This morning you'll explore the Old City with a self-guided tour uncovering its history and culture. Start at the 16th-century Fortress of Mazagan, a small UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Portuguese as an outpost on the trading route down the west coast of Africa. Then, continue through the city, where churches and synagogues rub shoulders with mosques and highlight the town's multicultural past. Last, visit the Portuguese Cistern, a hidden treasure from the 16th century.

Balance your morning of history with an afternoon adrenaline rush. Rev the engine of a quad bike or beach buggy and set off across the coastal landscapes of El Jadida as the powerful vehicle turns nature into your playground. Each twist and turn of the terrain brings a new thrill, and every dune crest offers panoramas of the vast ocean and city.

Return to the resort and refresh ahead of a fairy-tale night beneath the stars at Al Firma. Here you'll sit on plush cushions and woven carpets while enjoying traditional Moroccan dishes made using organic ingredients direct from Al Firma's garden. Savor an array of vibrant mezze, zesty salads, couscous, and tajines. As the night unfolds, you'll sit around a firepit under the moonlight while local dancers and musicians showcase the local culture.

Follow the curves of Morocco's coastline on today's 3.5-hour private transfer to the charming coastal town of Essaouira. Often referred to as the "White Pearl," Essaouira offers picturesque charm and a vibrant atmosphere. This city has a long history of diverse influences, from Indigenous Berbers and Phoenicians to Romans, and today it's a hub for the artsy and young surfer crowd.

In Essaouira, you'll stay at the 5-star Heure Bleue Palais, a traditional Moroccan riad steeped in history. This historic home is your tranquil oasis. Spend the afternoon at the heated rooftop pool, or book yourself in for a hammam spa experience. Later today, you'll have an exquisite luxury dining experience at Le Salon Oriental. The menu is a true celebration of Moroccan cuisine, so savor every bite while you enjoy warm hospitality and luxurious interiors.

Discover more of Essaouira today with a knowledgeable private guide, starting at the clock tower in the fortified medina, which covers an impressive 75 acres (30 ha). Visit the Jewish Mellah, admire the Skala de la Kasbah fortress, stroll along ancient ramparts, discover the Orson Welles Garden, and immerse yourself in the raucous souk. Visit the bustling port, where fishermen skillfully unload their daily catch and traditional blue boats dot the harbor. Throughout, your private guide will share historical anecdotes and bring Essaouira's stories to life.

This afternoon, turn the thrills up with an exhilarating private kitesurfing lesson at Sidi Kaouki Beach. Pop on a wetsuit and learn essential techniques to control and maneuver the kite. With each passing moment, you'll gain confidence as you navigate the wind and waves. Feel the satisfaction of learning a new skill while enjoying the stunning Moroccan coastline.

This morning you'll swap Essaouira's tranquil shores for the buzzing streets of Marrakech. A private driver will take you on the three-hour drive, so sit back in plush leather seats and enjoy the comfortable journey. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for goats in the nearby argan trees as you travel through the region's rolling plains. On arrival in the "Red City," settle into the elegant rose-hued hotel Amanjena. This luxurious and palatial 5-star retreat near Marrakech features lush gardens, private pools, and views of the High Atlas mountains. Here 32 pavilions are set within an oasis of palms and olive trees.

Settle into the hotel, then dive deeper into Moroccan cuisine with this afternoon's three-hour private guided food adventure. A local foodie will lead you on an aromatic trail through the alleyways of Marrakech's medina, tasting local delicacies along the way. Pass vibrant market stalls brimming with fragrant spices, juicy olives, and temping confections, and taste a tajine, a savory stew prepared in a traditional clay pot. As you go, your guide will share stories about the culture of food and communal dining in Moroccan society and share details about traditional cooking techniques.

Witness the desert landscape of Marrakech from above this morning with an exclusive hot-air balloon ride. Despite the early wake-up call, it's worth it to see the sunrise over the red desert. The serene atmosphere created by the pastel colors, soft lighting, and crisp early-morning air offers a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city below. Admire the shifting scenery as the Koutoubia Mosque and the Atlas mountains become miniature marvels in the distance. A traditional Moroccan morning meal awaits you on the ground, bringing you back to earth.

Later this morning, immerse yourself in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and scents as you discover Marrakech with a local guide. Your private half-day tour begins at the illustrious Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of carved wooden ceilings, tiled courtyards, and serene gardens. Venture by the Koutoubia Mosque, the symbol of Marrakech, then follow your guide into the colorful medina, a maze of alleyways lined with riads, souks, and workshops. Discover vibrant textiles, aromatic spices, ornate jewelry, and leather goods before stopping for midday meal.

In the afternoon, it's time to relax. Experience the art of the hammam at a luxury 5-star spa, where a warm ambience transports you to a world of serenity and centuries-old traditions. The traditional hammam bathing experience is deeply rooted in Moroccan culture and will leave you feeling entirely renewed. After, venture back to the hotel and slip into something chic. Tonight you'll enjoy a sensory dinner at Amanjena, savoring delicious Moroccan plates in a serene candlelit courtyard while local musicians provide the soundtrack.

It's time to wave goodbye to the beautiful land of Morocco. If you have time before your flight today, venture into the souks to shop for last-minute spices, slippers, and souvenirs. At the designated time, a private driver will be waiting at your hotel to escort you to the airport, a short 20-minute drive from the center. Sit back and relax as you reflect on the past week in Morocco and savor a final view of the vibrant city. Safe travels home or to your next destination!