An exotic gateway to Africa – welcome to Morocco! Its mountains, desert and coast are populated by Berbers and nomads, and its ancient medina lanes lead to souqs and traditional riads.
Explore from the Saharan dunes to the Atlas Mountains on this sensory journey. Landscapes carpet this sublime slice of North Africa like the richly coloured rugs you’ll lust after in local cooperatives. The mountains lead you to Saharan oases – offering simple, breathtaking pleasures: night skies glistening in the thin air; views over a fluffy cloudbank from the Tizi n’Test pass. On lower ground, discover the rugged coastlines and caves in forested hills, and of course the mighty desert.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Ahlan wa Sahlan & welcome To Morocco! Upon arrival at Casablanca Airport, our representative will be waiting for you outside with signboard with your name on it, as well as our private vehicle that will take you to your hotel. There will be a welcome Moroccan mint tea waiting for you upon check-in.
Fondly known by locals simply as ‘Casa’, the capital of Morocco is the industrial, economic and cultural heart of this remarkable country, as well as its most cosmopolitan, liberal and progressive city. Whilst most visitors overlook Casablanca in favour of Morocco’s more popular and exotic cities, this sprawling metropolis has plenty to offer the discerning traveller and has many hidden historical and cultural gems just waiting to be discovered. The city is famous for its spectacular Art Deco and Moorish Revival architecture, constructed during the Colonial Period.
For those with an early flight arrival time, or who have arrived the day prior, this afternoon you will explore Casablanca’s Old Medina, a tiny, ancient, walled village. Continue to Hassan II Mosque, one of the most impressive sites in Casablanca. Opened in 1993 after 7 Years of construction work by dozens of Moroccan architects and thousands of workers from all over the kingdom, this mosque has the tallest Minaret on the planet and is the 3rd largest mosque in the world. The huge building is partly on land and partly on sea, and in one area, water can be seen through a glass floor. It is one of the only religious sites open to non-Muslims.
This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant, a wonderful introduction to Moroccan cuisine and hospitality. (D)
Overnight – Odyssee Center Hotel or similar
This morning, drive to Rabat (89km, 1hr 10m) Morocco’s capital and one of the country’s four imperial cities. Explore the Kasbah des Oudayas, a fortified settlement dating from the 12th century, where blue and white alleyways overlook the Bou Regreg River and Atlantic coastline. Continue to the Hassan Tower, the unfinished minaret of an ambitious Almohad mosque project, and visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, an important royal monument showcasing exceptional Moroccan craftsmanship.
Following your visit, transfer to the railway station and board the high-speed train to Tangier. The comfortable journey north takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
On arrival, discover Tangier, a city that has long occupied a unique position between Africa and Europe. Explore the historic kasbah and medina, wander through the bustling souks, and continue to Cap Spartel, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. A visit to the legendary Hercules Caves is included completes the day, with dramatic coastal views and stories rooted in ancient mythology. (B)
Overnight – Palais Zahia or similar
This morning, continue north to the city of Chefchaouen (112km, 2.25hrs), locally known as the Blue Pearl. Hidden high up in the Rif Mountains of northeastern Morocco, Chefchaouen is a relatively large historical town known for the striking, variously hued, blue-washed buildings of its picturesque Medina. Wander along narrow, cobblestone streets lined with leather and weaving workshops and an array of historical monuments. Must-see attractions include the town’s waterfall which lies to the east of the Medina; the ruins of an old mosque on a hill behind the waterfall; and the shady main square of Uta el-Hammam, which is home to the red-walled kasbah, a 15th-century fortress and dungeon displaying ethnographic and art exhibits.
Explore this beautiful Andalusian town. Its medina has been lovingly cared for with striking blue and whitewashed houses and artistic doorways. Most of Chefchaouen was recreated by Andalusian refugees escaping the Reconquista, so you might feel like you’re in the hills of Spain while exploring its streets.
Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at the famous Café Clock Chefchaouen, known for its creative Moroccan cuisine and relaxed atmosphere.
This afternoon, join a guided exploration of Chefchaouen’s medina. Wander through its winding lanes lined with blue-painted homes, artisan workshops, and small market stalls. Visit the Kasbah Museum and gain insight into the history and culture of the region. Along the way, sample locally produced goat cheese, a speciality of the Rif Mountains.
Later, walk to the Spanish Mosque, positioned on a hillside overlooking the town. From here, enjoy panoramic views across Chefchaouen and the surrounding mountains, particularly striking as the light begins to soften towards sunset. (B, L)
Overnight – Vancii Hotel or similar
Total travel distances & times – 400km, 5hrs total
Get into your comfy shoes, grab a bottle of water, put on your sunscreen and get ready for an outdoorsy day full of exciting historical sites. After breakfast depart Chefchaouen and travel south towards Fes, with two significant cultural stops en route.
Your first trop is in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun (170km | 3hr drive), one of Morocco’s most important pilgrimage towns and the resting place of Moulay Idriss I, founder of the first Moroccan Islamic dynasty. Enjoy a home-cooked lunch at a local guesthouse, offering an opportunity to experience traditional hospitality and regional cuisine.
Continue to Volubilis (5km | 10min drive), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the finest preserved Roman archaeological complex in Morocco. Explore the ancient streets, triumphal arches, temples, and remarkably preserved mosaics that reveal the scale and prosperity of this former Roman settlement.
Take a guided tour of The Mauritanian capital, founded in the 3rd century B.C., the Roman ruins of Volubilis. This site became an important outpost of the Roman Empire and was graced with many fine buildings. Extensive remains of these survive in the archaeological site, located in a fertile agricultural area. Afterwards, continue to the spiritual capital of Morocco, Fes (95km | 1hr 30min drive).
Fes is Morocco’s second-largest city and the country’s former capital. It is an exotic mix of Arabic architecture, ancient alleyways, calls to prayer and colourful markets; all mixed in with a good dose of modern culture. Home to the venerated Karaouine Mosque, which dates to 859 AD and incorporates an Islamic university, it is also home to the country’s most hallowed shrine, the Zaouia Moulay Idriss II. Fes is regarded as the spiritual seat of Morocco. Those with a penchant for shopping can browse the mesmerising colourful markets selling an exquisite array of silver, leather and other handicrafts up for grabs. (B, L)
Overnight – Riad El Yacout or similar
Today is dedicated to exploring Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart, and home to one of the most remarkable historic urban centres in the Islamic world. Join your local guide for a full-day exploration of Fes el Bali, the UNESCO-listed old medina and one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas. Wander through a labyrinth of narrow alleyways lined with workshops, markets, mosques, and historic buildings that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Visit the famous tanneries, where leather continues to be processed using traditional methods, and admire the intricate craftsmanship of the city’s historic religious schools. See the exterior of Al Quaraouiyine University, recognised as the world’s oldest continually operating university, and visit Funduk Nejjarine, renowned for its beautiful architecture and collection dedicated to traditional woodworking and craftsmanship.
This evening, visit a local family home to enjoy a traditional pastilla dinner. A celebrated speciality of Fes, pastilla combines delicate layers of pastry with spiced meat, almonds, eggs, cinnamon, and powdered sugar, reflecting the city’s rich culinary heritage. (B, L, D)
Overnight – Riad El Yacout or similar
Depart Fes early this morning and journey into the Middle Atlas Mountains. Today’s route is one of Morocco’s great overland journeys, covering a significant distance as the landscapes gradually transition from cedar forests and mountain valleys to the vast desert plains of the Sahara.
Travel through Ifrane, often referred to as “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture, before continuing to Azrou and its cedar forests inhabited by Barbary macaques.
Continue your journey to Midelt (204 km | 3.5 hrs drive), known as the Apple City of Morocco. The large apple sculpture at the city centre is its iconic landmark, and the delicious apples from Midelt are celebrated across the country. Time permitted, stop for lunch in Midelt (own expense), where the special “Mountain fish” cuisine is highly recommended.
Following this stop, continue your drive to Erfoud (208 km | 3.5 hrs drive), the “Fossil City,” also known as the “Gateway to the Desert.” Erfoud is a paradise for fossil hunters, particularly known for the discovery of unique fossilised species, including trilobites. The region’s landscape and geology are strikingly like certain areas on Mars, making it a valuable site for Mars analogue research.
From Erfoud, you will continue to Merzouga (55km | 1hr drive). Upon arrival, check into your desert hotel and enjoy time to relax before tomorrow’s Sahara adventure. (B, D)
Overnight – Hotel Sahara Pearl (or similar)
Rise early at around 7:00 am, where your 4×4 driver will be waiting at reception. Embark on a sunrise dune exploration, climbing a towering dune to witness the first rays of sunlight illuminating the golden sands. After this breathtaking experience, return to the camp for breakfast and a brief rest.
Begin your full-day desert adventure with a visit to an ancient stone mine. Historically, desert inhabitants used black stone powder for make-up, beauty, and protection against the wind. Drive through the ruins of an ancient caravanserai on the way to Timbuktu, the legendary “Land of Gold.” From a nearby hill, enjoy sweeping views of the endless desert.
Continue your journey to Khamlia, known as the birthplace of the traditional Gnawa music. You’ve likely encountered this soulful music, characterised by rhythmic harp and metal instruments, during your time in Morocco. The guide will share fascinating stories about the origins and significance of Gnawa music.
For lunch, savour a traditional “Berber Pizza” before taking a short nap. In the late afternoon, enjoy a sunset camel ride across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi before arriving at your desert camp.
Later in the afternoon, venture into the dunes of Erg Chebbi by camel as the desert begins to glow in the changing light. The journey across the golden sands offers an opportunity to experience the vastness and silence of the Sahara.
Arrive at your desert camp before sunset. This evening, enjoy dinner beneath the stars, accompanied by traditional music around the campfire. (B, L, D)
Overnight – Jaimas Madu Desert Camp (or similar)
After breakfast this morning, take a short rest or climb the dunes once more to bid farewell to the Grand Sahara. The journey begins with a stop at the Todra Gorges (194km | 3hrs drive), a stunning series of limestone river canyons located in the eastern High Atlas Mountains near Tinerhir. These gorges, carved by the Todgha and Dades Rivers, feature cliff walls that reach up to 400 metres (1,312 ft) in some places, creating a breathtaking landscape. Continue through Kelaa M’Gouna (50km | 1hr drive), the heart of Morocco’s Rose Valley, known for its cultivation of damask roses and the production of rose-based oils, perfumes, and cosmetics.
Your final destination for the day is the hidden Oasis town of Skoura (29km | 30min drive). Stepping into Skoura feels like stepping back in time, with its single small supermarket and a landscape where palm trees, desert, and snowy mountains come together to create a unique setting. Here, visit Kasbah Amridil, one of the finest examples of southern Moroccan earthen architecture. Its fortified towers, decorative details, and historic interiors offer insight into life along the ancient caravan routes that once crossed this region.
Settle into your Kasbah hotel for dinner and a well-deserved rest. Please note that due to the local network, WiFi signal strength may be limited in your room. (B, D)
Overnight – Kasbah Ait ben Damiette or similar
Today, bid farewell to the enchanting town of Skoura and and travel to Ouarzazate (40km | 45min drive), often referred to as the Gateway to the Sahara. This desert city has long served as an important crossroads for trade routes between the Sahara, the Atlas Mountains, and Morocco’s imperial cities.
Continue to Ait Benhaddou (30km | 35min drive), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic ksars. Join a guided walking tour through its network of earthen buildings, fortified walls, and narrow passageways. Constructed from traditional mud-brick architecture, the settlement has served as the backdrop for numerous international films and television productions. During your visit, enjoy a tea break within the kasbah and visit the small Berber Museum.
This afternoon, continue across the High Atlas Mountains via the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass (234km | 4hr 30min drive). The route winds through mountain villages, dramatic valleys, and panoramic landscapes before descending into the foothills surrounding Imlil.
Arrive in the mountain village of Imlil in the late afternoon. Due to the length of today’s journey, no hiking is scheduled, allowing time to relax and enjoy the mountain setting. (B,D)
Overnight – Dar Imlil or similar
Driving distance & time – Approx. 304km, 5hrs drive
Today, spend the day exploring the High Atlas Mountains on a guided walk through the landscapes surrounding Imlil. Begin with a hike through traditional Berber villages connected by footpaths that wind between terraced fields, walnut groves, and mountain valleys. Along the way, gain insight into the daily life of the communities that have inhabited these mountains for generations and enjoy sweeping views across the surrounding peaks. Pause for lunch during your walk before returning to Imlil.
The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. Relax at your mountain kasbah, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, or simply take in the views across the Atlas Mountains. (B, L, D)
Overnight – Dar Imlil or similar
After breakfast, depart the High Atlas Mountains and travel to Marrakech (67km | 2 hrs drive), Morocco’s famed Red City, a colourful melting pot where European modernity is mixed with ancient vibes.
The bustling UNESCO-listed city of Marrakesh is an enchanting travel destination in Morocco. It’s easy to lose all sense of time in Marrakech, with its maze of narrow alleyways scattered with donkey carts, snake charmers, castanetists, acrobats, storytellers, dancers, water-sellers and potion vendors to entertain. Upon arrival, leave your luggage at the riad and accompanied by a local guide, discover hidden food stalls, family-run eateries, and market vendors while sampling a variety of regional specialities. This tasting experience provides an introduction to the flavours, ingredients, and culinary traditions that have shaped Moroccan cuisine.
The evening is free to explore independently. Wander through the medina, relax in one of the city’s atmospheric cafés, or enjoy views across the rooftops as Marrakech comes alive after sunset. (B, L)
Overnight – Riad Palais Des Princesses or similar
After breakfast, you will head to the elegant restaurant at La Maison Arabe where you will have a cooking class and learn to prepare your first Moroccan meal. With the help of a local chef, prepare your lunch.
After lunch, you will have a guided visit to the Medina starting from Le Jardin Secret which dates to the Saadian dynasty more than 400 years ago and has been the home of some of Morocco and Marrakech’s most important political figures. Discover its gardens and buildings, which are outstanding examples of Islamic art and architecture. Pass by the Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech’s most recognisable landmark, before continuing through the bustling souks. Explore the maze of market streets where artisans continue centuries-old traditions, producing textiles, leather goods, metalwork, ceramics, and other handcrafted items.
The evening is at leisure. (B, L)
Overnight – Riad Palais Des Princesses or similar
Following breakfast, today is at leisure until it is time for your transfer to the airport for your onward departure (approx. 8km | 20–30min drive, traffic dependent). Your group departure transfer to Marrakech Airport is included, with pick-up scheduled approximately three hours prior to your flight departure time. (B)
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**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
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This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
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Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
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Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
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Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
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