After breakfast, join your tour guide to discover the best of Casablanca. Stops include the Hassan II Mosque – one of the largest in the world, and indisputably one of the most beautiful. Partially suspended above the sea and fitted with an enormous retractable roof that opens to beaming sunlight on special days of worship, this feat of architecture – with its hand-carved stone and detailed marble floor – pays tribute to the former King of Morocco.
Enjoy a stroll along the Corniche Ain Diab, the city’s picturesque seaside promenade, before arriving at the Habous Quarter, renowned for its traditional architecture, colour-filled shops and fine artisans.
After catching Casablanca’s highlights, set off for the city of Chefchaouen. Along the way, stop in Morocco’s coastal capital of Rabat, where you’ll embark on a guided tour of the city’s must-see sights. Witness the Hassan Tower, a massive 12th-century minaret built to be the largest of its kind in the Islamic world; see El Mechouar Assaid, Morocco’s Royal Palace, the official residence of King Mohammed VI; and wander through the Kasbah of Oudayas. The surrounding neighbourhood, with alleyways splashed in bright blue and white, is now a residential area teeming with lush gardens and picturesque alleyways. It’s a wonderful place to stop at a local cafe for mint tea, coffee and a light bite.
Later, continue on your way to Chefchaouen and check in at your luxurious hotel with a view over Chefchaouen. In this beautifully constructed hotel, you’ll enjoy a well-earned dinner and an evening at rest.
Travel time: Driving – approx. five hours
After a peaceful night, it’s time to discover Chefchaouen, known as the ‘Blue City of Morocco’. With its striking array of buildings in cobalt, sky-blue, indigo and countless other hues, Chefchaouen is a city of narrow winding cobblestone streets and historic workshops.
Fall in love with this town as you visit the picturesque kasbah with its 15th-century fortifications, as well as the Grand Mosque – the city’s oldest, found in the nearby Place Outa Hammam.
Today will also feature a unique goat cheese-tasting experience, in which you can look forward to visiting a local cheese shop or artisanal farm for the chance to sample a selection of the city’s offerings. Learn about the skilled production processes and the unique flavours of different varieties, then follow the guidance of an expert taster as you taste the complex nuances of aged goat cheese. Pair your samples with fresh bread, dried fruits and golden-sweet honey, demonstrating the versatile uses of this flavoursome product.
Conclude your day with a trip to a scenic spot offering panoramic views over the blue city and the surrounding mountains.
Check out of your hotel after breakfast, then meet with your guide to depart for the old imperial city of Meknes. Along the way, stop at Volubilis, the well-preserved ruins of a once-prosperous Roman settlement. As you walk through the streets and admire traditional Roman mosaics, gain insight into the Roman citizens who lived there.
Carry on to Meknes and see the final resting place of Mouley Ismail, Morocco’s longest-reigning sultan. As the mausoleum is one of few spiritual places within Morocco with areas open to the public, embrace this opportunity to admire its representation of intricate Islamic design. Your guide will lead you through the city’s highlights, sharing insight into its fascinating history and cultural treasures.
Then, visit the acclaimed Château Roslane, one of the city’s most well-known wineries, where you’ll indulge in a refreshing late lunch and a tasting.
Later, continue to Fes and check in at your opulent accommodation, the five-star Riad Fès – Relais & Châteaux, where intricate Moroccan design and traditional architecture converge. From the panoramic terrace to the tastefully classic accommodations, this 14th-century palace is a cut above the rest. Enjoy an evening of leisure.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 4.5 hours
Riad Fès – Relais & Châteaux stay
After breakfast, immerse yourself in Fes’s medieval history as you explore its twisting alleyways on a guided tour. Gaze upon mosaic fountains and breathe in alluring spices as you pass aromatic food stands offering bowls of earthy harira soups and lamb sausages stuffed with paprika.
Walk back through time through Fes Medina, the city’s old town; its cobbled streets are lined with ancient mosques, soaring minarets and historic fondouk hotels. Peek into peaceful courtyards and marvel at the brightly coloured tiling. You’ll stop at Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University, one of the world’s oldest universities, and Bou Inania Madrasa, a historic Islamic learning centre.
Sit down for lunch at a local restaurant in the heart of the Medina, then continue to a pottery and ceramics workshop for the chance to don an apron and try your hand at this longstanding Moroccan practice. Under the tutelage of a local craftsman, you will shape your very own piece, listening as the history of Moroccan ceramics is revealed.
Finally, visit the Chouara Tannery to learn about the ancient craft of leather-tanning, and wander through the Mellah, the city’s historic Jewish district, to gain a glimpse of the city’s rich Judaica.
Return to the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure before a hearty dinner.
Pottery workshop with a local artisan
Riad Fès – Relais & Châteaux stay
Depart Fes and travel to Merzouga for a change of pace – today you head deep into the Sahara. Pass through cedar forests and cross the Middle Atlas Mountains to the town of Midelt. After a brief stop, descend into the desert wilderness, spellbound by the magic of Erg Chebbi, a truly spectacular ‘Sea of Dunes’.
The village of Merzouga feels wonderfully isolated, as if the modern world has left it behind; legend has it the settlement was once a lush oasis before being punished by God. Historically, it has been a vital trading post for spice-laden caravans making the trek southward to Timbuktu.
After arriving by 4 x 4, check into your luxury desert camp, then mount a camel and set off for the Sahara to experience sunset and the changing colours of the sands. Enjoy a traditional Berber meal by the campfire with your group, complete with the tribal folk music of your hosts, and gaze up at the vast shroud of stars above.
Travel time: Driving – approx. eight hours
Sahara glamping experience
Fuel up at breakfast ahead of another adventurous day.
Begin by making the journey toward Todra Gorge. Considered one of Africa’s most spectacular canyons, the views over lush palm groves at the gorge’s floor are breathtaking.
Drive through the Valley of Roses and pass Kelaat M’Gouna, where thousands of Berbers travel for the annual Rose Festival. This springtime celebration honours the fragrant harvest and production of treasured rose water with parades and dancing. Continue to the city of Ouarzazate, nicknamed the ‘door to the desert’ and home to the world-famous Atlas Studios. Measured by acreage, Atlas is indisputably the largest film studio in the world; movies and television filmed here include Prison Break, Gladiator and the 1999 smash hit The Mummy.
Continue to Kasbah Taourirt, a 17th-century fortress in the middle of town built by a wealthy local family to control vital trade routes through the Sahara. Finally, complete your day by checking into your hotel. Enjoy the evening soaking up the scenery poolside or from your beautifully designed room.
Travel time: Driving – approx. six hours
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed fortified village (or kasr), Ait Benhaddou is a perfect example of authentic Moroccan mudbrick architecture. In its millennia-long existence, it has served as a trading post, fortress and actor – the location has popped up as a backdrop for countless films and television shows, including Lawrence of Arabia and Game of Thrones.
Once you’ve spent some time exploring, it’s time to venture through the High Atlas and on to the city of Marrakech. Once you’ve checked in at your hotel, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure and tuck into a Moroccan feast with dinner at the hotel.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours
Set out this morning for a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Marrakech. Learn about the French-influenced architecture of renowned fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent’s one-time residence in Majorelle Garden. Marvel at the magnificent minarets of Koutoubia Mosque – a 12th-century masterwork and one of Marrakech’s most widely recognised structures.
Walk by the buildings of the 15th-century Mellah and wander the streets of this historic Jewish quarter before entering the colonial-inspired Bahia Palace, which housed sultans and the French government until the late 20th century.
This afternoon, meander through the powder-pink ramparts of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Medina of Marrakech. Lose yourself in the bustling bazaars that flank the streets of Old Town, and haggle for a colourful souvenir from one of the open-air souks.
Step inside a traditional bakery, where artisans have spent hundreds of years mastering the art of breadmaking, frying buttery msemmen flatbread and hearty pastilla.
Spend the evening at leisure – sip mint tea under the stars or get out to experience the city’s electrifying nightlife.
Today is yours to get to know Marrakech at your own pace. Alternatively, you may wish to join your fellow travellers for an optional culinary experience (surcharges apply). With the expert guidance of local chefs, your traditional Moroccan cooking class begins with a visit to the busy souks to select the freshest ingredients, fragrant spices, herbs and local produce. Learn the secret skills and age-old techniques needed to prepare dishes such as tagine, couscous and Moroccan pastries. You’ll come to understand the cultural significance of each dish and the importance of communal dining in Moroccan culture.
This evening, join your group for a farewell dinner, reminiscing on your Moroccan adventure together.
Today marks the end of one adventure and the start of another. Bid farewell to your newfound friends at breakfast before transferring to Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) for a flight to Cairo via Casablanca.
Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport (CAI), make your own way to your next five-star stay at the Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis – a Hilton hotel outside central Cairo. Take a second to drop your bags and soak in the views across this sandy city, or head to the hotel spa for a well-earned massage treatment.
Tonight’s dinner is at leisure before tomorrow’s embarkation on an all-inclusive Red Sea luxury yacht cruise.
Travel time: Flying – approx. one hour + five hours; driving – 10 minutes
Wake in your king bed to an Egyptian sunrise worth savouring and head to breakfast before a midday checkout. Spend your morning by the hotel pool before making your own way back to Cairo International Airport (CAI) and meeting your transfer for a 90-minute drive to Ain Sokhna. Here, your Emerald luxury yacht awaits on the shores of the Red Sea.
Once aboard, a welcome reception will kick off the cruise with your first of many complimentary drinks and highlight why Emerald cruises are a jewel in Middle Eastern luxury travel. Enjoy your evening at leisure and indulge in a delicious dinner at La Cucina Dining & Terrace or the Night Market Grill. Wherever you dine, whatever you do aboard the Emerald Kaia, the next 11 days are sure to feel like a stay at a floating boutique hotel.
Please note: Port transfers are not available direct from the hotel.
Travel time: Driving, hotel to airport – 10 minutes; airport to port – 90 minutes
Emerald Kaia luxury cruise
A full day at sea gives you a chance to relish your nautical adventure; sleep in, grab tasty meals at your leisure and find peace in the passing azure waters from the Observation Deck or infinity pool. Make new friends at Amici Bar & Lounge as light entertainment keeps the vibes high and expert bartenders mix drinks to your liking.
Around sunset, wander to the sky deck for panoramic views over the Egyptian coastline and toast to an exciting trip ahead.
Your first stop aboard the Emerald Kaia takes you to Aqaba, with plenty of opportunity to explore the port’s crystal-clear waters and mesmerising coral reef. After breakfast aboard the impressive vessel, venture out into town or stay aboard and get acquainted with the yacht’s generous facilities.
The Kaia includes an array of five bars, restaurants and cafes from which to enjoy unlimited meals throughout your journey, giving you the freedom to eat what, when and where you want. A spa pool, infinity pool and dedicated wellness deck with a fitness centre, infrared sauna, spa, hairdresser and water sports equipment mean relaxation and entertainment are all but assured aboard the Kaia. For the next nine days, you’ll have complete freedom to do as much or as little as you like while the Red Sea flows on by.
As Jordan’s only coastal city, Aqaba is popular for its water sports and adventure, with vibrant coral reefs to snorkel on or view from the Aqaba Marine Reserve. Alternatively, hit up a local beach club as the sun falls over the Gulf. Upon return to the Emerald Kaia, try a new venue like the Sky Bar and Pool, or a blissful treatment at Elements Spa & Gym.
Another morning in Aqaba gives you plenty of opportunity to relax or continue exploring on land. Aqaba also serves as a gateway to the ancient city of Petra and Wadi Rum desert which you may choose to explore on a day-trip provided by Emerald Cruises – consult your dedicated Emerald Cruises Shore Excursion Manager to organise an expedition!
In the evening, hop back aboard the Emerald Kaia as the cruise sets sail for Eilat across the Gulf of Aqaba.
A very short hop across the Gulf from Aqaba lands you in Eilat for your only stop in Israel on the country’s southern tip.
This port city is known for several historic sites including nearby Timna Park, where ancient mineshafts mark arid clifftops. There is also ample opportunity to continue exploring the Gulf’s pristine underwater world of coral reefs and clear blue waters. A coveted aquarium lies south of the city with viewing halls 12 metres beneath the surface, where incredible displays of sea life and colour can be observed.
Today, the Red Sea comes into focus and the Gulf of Aqaba fades into memory. As you float through the Straits of Tiran, the popular resort town of Sharm El-Sheikh appears lined with luxury, and your breakfast is prepared to begin the morning.
This is a popular resort town, where you’ll find beautiful beaches and coral reefs that impress. With crystal-clear waters, this is an idyllic destination for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. On land, the city offers a historic Old Market, a vibrant modern shopping square and desert jeep tours into the Sinai Peninsula.
To the west coast of the Red Sea we go! Safaga is a charming and laid back town perfect for rest and relaxation. Safaga is small and quiet, and is renowned for its therapeutic hot springs. Tomorrow will be completely at sea, so make sure to take advantage of today’s stop and stretch out on one of Safaga’s pristine, yellow beaches – that is, unless you’re not finished making the most of your onboard wellness facilities.
Divide your days onboard the Emerald Kaia between the Elements Spa and the pool deck, with gelato in hand and the sun warming your skin.
A full day at sea gives you a chance to sleep in, grab tasty meals at your leisure and find peace in the passing azure waters from the Observation Deck or infinity pool. Make new friends at Amici Bar & Lounge as light entertainment keeps the vibes high and expert bartenders mix drinks to your liking.
Around sunset, wander to the sky deck for panoramic views over the Egyptian coastline and toast to a trip well taken.
Tick another country off your bucket list as the yacht pulls into the port of Yanbu and Saudi Arabia stretches out into the distance. Yanbu is widely known as the capital of diving in Saudi Arabia due to clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Not far from the port, explore Al Fairouz Park and the countless palm trees that line its lush gardens and winding paths. At the park’s northern end, Yanbu Lake Park provides some welcome respite from the city’s high temperatures.
To continue cooling off, immerse yourself in the city’s ancient existence as a humble seaport and snorkel among the coral stone that once helped to construct the Old City of Yanbu.
Welcome to the gateway to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Jeddah is Saudi Arabia’s largest port city and welcomes more than one million pilgrims each year as they make their way inland for the Muslim pilgrimage of Hajj.
The city’s significance has lead to its historical area of Al-Balad becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site where traditional architecture sends you back in time to its 7th-century construction. Stroll the old town’s souqs, museums, markets and cobblestone streets, soaking in the sights, sounds and scents of this culture-rich town.
Today, your luxurious cruise comes to an end. After breakfast, disembark at Jeddah and prepare for your transfer to King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED). Please book your flights to depart after 11am. This concludes an epic Middle Eastern adventure.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 45 minutes