Fossil and mineral collecting which is sometimes referred to as fossil and mineral hunting in the non-scientific perspective is the process of collecting fossil and minerals for studying scientifically, for-profit purposes or collected as a hobby by most people. This act is mostly practised by amateurs who want to have the experience, feeling or for recreational purposes. This is also practised by professionals who do so for scientific purposes. Fossil and mineral collection has also experienced its downturn in the long run as there has arisen commercial trade of these materials which in most cases is done illegally.
If you are a lover of fossil and mineral collecting, then this tour is for you. This middle atlas tour is wonderful and is suitable for individuals of all ages. Our tour guides are very knowledgeable and will explain to you all you need to know.
Our program can begin when you are ready so if you are arriving on an early flight, then the tour can begin at once (if you want), and you will be later transferred to your hotel. But if the reverse is the case, and your flight arrives late, then you will be taken to your hotel first to settle and the tour begins the following day.
This tour is summarized in no more than 15 days and will follow a comfortable schedule to suit your comfort. Here is what you should expect to experience during the tour.
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Itinerary
Most of our tour itineraries & packages are private as we aim to clear the ground for purely-cultural experiences while maintaining the delivery of personal service. However, we may take shared bookings on some occasions when the group (maximum 8) is already set. The featured price can change based on the number of passengers & the category of the Riads/hotels & Desert camp.
Day 1 – Arrival Day – Casablanca – Rabat
The itinerary begins from the largest city of Morocco – Casablanca. If you arrive at the early hour of the day in the city then you can head towards Casablanca’s city center to visit the Hassan II Mosque. This mosque is famous for its minaret as it is the tallest in the whole world. On the other hand, if you are late then there is nothing to worry about because you can rest and enjoy the beautiful city of Casablanca and then explore Rabat the next day.
- Overnight accommodation in Riad Kalaa or similar – bed and breakfast are included.
Day 2 – Explore Rabat – Chefchaouen
After having breakfast in your Riad/hotel, you’ll spend the first half-day exploring Rabat, which is the official capital of Morocco & home of the ruling King Mohammed VI. You’ll start with a tour around the tranquil Kasbah of Oudayas, built by the Almohads in the 12th century by the sanctuary of the Bou Regreg River. The views from here are just stunning & meandering around the allyeways of this Kasbah will take back in time.
Continue to the Hassan Tower, Mohamed V Mausoleum before heading north to the blue town of Chefchaouen.
- Overnight accommodation in Dar Echchaouen, Riad Hicham or similar – bed, and breakfast are included.
Day 3 – Full Day Exploring Chefchaouen
You’ll Spend the day exploring the exceptional beauty of this gem of a town. Chefchaouen is one of the most popular destinations worldwide due to the warmth, hospitality and beauty it does generously offer to its visitors. You can spend seamlessly most of the day meandering around its narrow alleyways but you can start from the famous Utta El-Hamam Square.
The square is lined with small cafes and restaurants offering delicious Moroccan dishes. You can visit the adjacent Kasbah, which is located in the heart of this blue-hued painted town of Chefchaouen, from here you can walk through the alleyways to the Ras El-Ma Spring offering majestic views from here with women doing the daily laundry using traditional methods. The streets are filled with small shops selling souvenirs and prices here are surprisingly affordable compared to other parts of Morocco.
- Overnight accommodation in Dar Echchaouen, Riad Lina, Dar Hicham or similar – dinner and breakfast are included.
Day 4 – Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fez
After breakfast, you’ll continue on the track further south through the lush Rif Mountains. Your next stop will be Volubilis (Roman ruins). This city was once a flourishing province and now it has turned into the most significant archaeological wonder that speaks a lot about the history of this nation.
Later, you can head towards Meknes which is a less-traveled land of Morocco. This city was built by 10,000 slaves under the orders of the ruler Moulay Ismail. This city is even known is the “Versailles of Morocco”. Meknes is a less-traveled land but if you have decided to visit then we suggest to take a guide with you. in Meknes, you will come across Bab Mansour which is one of the most remarkable gates of the country.
Gradually, you will then head towards Fez and spent the night there.
- Overnight accommodation in Riad Yamanda or similar – bed and breakfast are included.
Day 5 – Full Day Exploring Fez
Fez is the heart and soul of Morocco that you must not miss visiting. It is the historic center of Art and Science. To some travelers, Fez is a mysterious box that helps enchanting delights. The most intriguing part about this city is the 9000 roads and alleyways which will take you a lifetime to explore.
But in the meantime, you can just visit the beautiful attractions. Do not forget to visit Batha Museum, Jewish Quarter, the King’s Palace and Pottery Complex. Moreover, this is an 8-hour tour packed with storytelling and sightseeing.
- Overnight accommodation in Riad Yamanda or similar – bed and breakfast are included.
Day 6 – Fez – Ifrane – Midelt – Erfoud – Merzouga
After having breakfast in your Riad, you start the sixth day with a long drive to Ifran. It is a city that was established during the French administration. However, it is the best destination for a summer vacation. The beautiful view of the city helps you to fall in love with it.
Your next stop is the Cedar Forest but, before that, you will come across the Ziz Valley and Erfoud Town. One of the most interesting facts about Erfoud Town is that it is the biggest manufacturer of Dates in Morocco. So we should visit this town and buy some dates for your loved one back home.
Continue on the track until the vast sand dune field of Erg Chebbi become conspicuous from afar, and by its feet you will spend the night.
- Overnight accommodation in Riad Azawad, Riad Madu or similar – dinner and breakfast are included.
Day 7 – Explore the Desert Area & Camel Trek
Today, you’ll have the chance to explore the Desert area starting with an insight into the traditional system of irrigation called “Khettaras”. Then, to the Khamlia Village that is resided by people from sub-Saharan lands by origin, brought as slaves and known for the Gnawa spiritual music, which they perform to guest visitors.
After our time of entertainment, you’ll make a complete circuit around the sand dune field of Erg Chebbi with the possibility to visit a Berber nomad family to learn about their lifestyle and share a mint tea with them.
In the late afternoon, you’ll have a journey on a camel back to attend the majestic view of the sunset before spending the night in your private tent or under the stars.
- Overnight accommodation in a luxury desert camp – dinner and breakfast are included.
Day 8 – Merzouga – Tinejdad – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley
Now is the time to head west through Erfoud but on the way back you will come across a rock monster which is a stone cliff at Todra Gorge (canyon). You can take some amazing pictures of this location and complete your lunch.
After an hour of break, your journey will resume and your next destination is the Dades Valley. Here you will encounter humongous rock formation. Spend the night and appreciate the hospitality.
- Overnight accommodation in Babylon, Xaluca Dades or similar – dinner and breakfast are included.
Day 9 – Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Benhaddou – Marrakech
After having breakfast, you will then proceed towards the Skoura Oasis which is even known as the “Valley of Kasbahs”. Your journey on the ninth day will then proceed from Skoura to Ouarzazate where the Taourirt Kasbah is centered the whole city. However, then is the journey towards the Ait Ben Haddou which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is a significant Kasbah and a well preserved one. After witnessing many historical landmarks now is the right time to head towards Marrakesh which will be marked as the last stop of the day.
- Overnight accommodation in Riad Marana or similar – bed and breakfast are included.
Day 10 – Full Day Exploring of Marrakech
The tenth day of the itinerary is all about Marrakesh. You can now explore the mysteries hidden in this land of beauty with a local expert private tour guide.
Reach out to the Marrakesh Medina and wander around the street and pathways. Each monument has is own stories in Marrakesh and all you need to do is listen to the stories and contemplate.
You’ll visit the botanical gardens of Majorelle along with the Saint Laurent Museum, the Kotoubia Mosque (the landmark of Marrakesh and can be seen from different directions), the Saadian Tombs with its unique architetcure, the Bahia Palace, the vibrant Souks of Smmarine that are divided into sections according to specialty before concluding the adventurous day in the Square of Jemaa El Fna.
- Overnight accommodation in Riad Marana or similar – bed and breakfast are included.
Day 11 – Marrakech – Casablanca
You can either head back to Casablanca or stay in Marrakesh depending on the timing of your flight. If you have time then do not rush and stay back to grab the last moments in this land of wonders.
Day 12 – Casablanca – Airport Transfer
It is now time to say goodbye to beautiful Morocco. We let you go with the hope that you will surely return someday. We even hope that you had a wonderful journey and made a plethora of memories to cherish.
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Important Information
Price Includes
- A/C & well-maintained 4WD or minivan driven by an expert English speaking driver/guide for 12 days.
- Car fuel and tolls.
- Pick up from your Casablanca hotel/Riad/Villa or meet and greet at the airport.
- Local tour guides in Volubilis, Fes & Marrakech.
- Camel ride journey for the sunset.
- Overnight in the Sahara Desert camp in Erg Chebbi (private ensuite tent) with dinner & breakfast are included.
- 10 nights accommodation as illustrated in the above itinerary.
- Unique Experiences
- Local taxes.
Price Excludes
- Beverages including water.
- Entrance fees to sites and places of attractions
- Lunches on the way.
- Flights.
- Insurance in case of any emergency.
- Tips when appropriate.
Terms & Conditions
Prices are “from”, per person, based on at least 2 adults sharing, and include all taxes. Prices can change based on the number of passengers sharing & the quality of accommodation. Subject to availability. 11 nights accommodation as indicated in the above itinerary.
