Morocco Private Tour & Lux Desert Camping

Randy & family stayed here twice and very much enjoy this property. Designed by noteworthy Jean Baptiste Barian, a specialist in Arab Andalusian architecture, this restored palace is located on the South Hill with breathtaking views of the bustling, historic Medina. Though opened in 2012, the Palais Faraj feels entirely like a 19th-century Moroccan Palace. All 25 suites include meticulously designed Moroccan textiles and artwork. Highlights include a grand courtyard pool, a rooftop garden bar & restaurant, a poolside tea patio, and Essencia Spa, the best luxury spa and wellness center in Fez (featuring a traditional Hammam!). We very much enjoyed the tasty breakfasts on the hotel’s terrace during our stay here. A recent client remarked on the stunning views of the historical Medina (as well as the artichoke and lamb tagine!)

Designed by noteworthy Jean Baptiste Barian, a specialist in Arab Andalusian architecture, this restored palace is located on the South Hill with breathtaking views of the bustling, historic Medina. All 25 suites include meticulously designed Moroccan textiles and artwork. We very much enjoyed the tasty breakfasts on the hotel’s terrace during our stay here. A recent client remarked on the stunning views of the historical Medina (as well as the artichoke and lamb tagine!)

We feel an overnight luxury experience at The White Camel in the red rock region of the Agafay Desert is among the most unique highlights of any private tour of Morocco. The White Camel offers light earth tones, a boutique collection of 13 lodges, 20 luxury tents, and an infinity pool. This remote camp is surrounded by the Agafay Desert, an expansive, dry desert reminiscent of the surface of Mars. Similar to the Sahara Desert, Agafay’s landscape is rocky and abundant with white sand dunes, canyons, and plains ideal for hiking and horseback riding. 

With the proliferation of desert camps in the area, we are confident to suggest this pristine series of lodges and tents set in front of the Atlas Mountains.

We feel an overnight luxury experience at The White Camel in the red rock region of the Agafay Desert is among the most unique highlights of any private tour of Morocco. The White Camel offers light earth tones, a boutique collection of 13 lodges, 20 luxury tents, and an infinity pool. This remote camp is surrounded by the Agafay Desert, an expansive, dry desert reminiscent of the surface of Mars. Similar to the Sahara Desert, Agafay’s landscape is rocky and abundant with white sand dunes, canyons, and plains ideal for hiking and horseback riding. 

With the proliferation of desert camps in the area, we are confident to suggest this pristine series of lodges and tents set in front of the Atlas Mountains.

Dar Ahlam (meaning house of dreams in Arabic), is our favorite remote luxury hotel on site of the Atlas Mountains. The owner of this 200-year-old fortified house, Thierry Teyssier, has taken high-touch service to an unrivaled level with more than 100 staff serving a mere 30 guests! Though we have stayed at the Le Berber Palace in the past, we feel this 16-room (nine suites and three villas) luxury property to be a truly heavenly place and the premier accommodation in the entire Skoura and Ouarzazate region. An approximately 25-mile-drive to the historic sites of Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou, Dar Ahlam is set in remote desert surroundings, located in a lush Skoura palm grove. The design and outward look of the hotel are of a traditional 19th-century Kasbah, though the rooms are updated with modern 5-star amenities. A nice touch is the wood fires burning in the bedroom and bathrooms, ideal for cold desert nights. Somewhat similar to AMAN, Dar Ahlam’s philosophy is relaxation from western stress with very little modern-day influences; no TVs or phones! Based on an understated, non-traditional luxury concept, the hotel has no reception desk, while daily meals are set in different locations, dependent on the day’s cultural theme. Although the heated outside pool is very nice, lively camel and river excursions are enjoyable options. Among our favorite morning routines here to walk among the lush palm groves and gardens and, of course, enjoy the spa!

Dar Ahlam (meaning house of dreams in Arabic), is our favorite remote luxury hotel on site of the Atlas Mountains. The owner of this 200-year-old fortified house, Thierry Teyssier, has taken high-touch service to an unrivaled level with more than 100 staff serving a mere 30 guests! Though we have stayed at the Le Berber Palace in the past, we feel this 16-room (nine suites and three villas) luxury property to be a truly heavenly place and the premier accommodation in the entire Skoura and Ouarzazate region. An approximately 25-mile-drive to the historic sites of Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou, Dar Ahlam is set in remote desert surroundings, located in a lush Skoura palm grove. The design and outward look of the hotel are of a traditional 19th-century Kasbah, though the rooms are updated with modern 5-star amenities. A nice touch is the wood fires burning in the bedroom and bathrooms, ideal for cold desert nights. Somewhat similar to AMAN, Dar Ahlam’s philosophy is relaxation from western stress with very little modern-day influences; no TVs or phones! Based on an understated, non-traditional luxury concept, the hotel has no reception desk, while daily meals are set in different locations, dependent on the day’s cultural theme. Although the heated outside pool is very nice, lively camel and river excursions are enjoyable options. Among our favorite morning routines here to walk among the lush palm groves and gardens and, of course, enjoy the spa!

Originally opened in 1923, this 210-room Moorish-style iconic luxury hotel recently completed a comprehensive three-year restoration. Under the guidance of Parisian designer Jacques Garcia, the detailed, meticulously laid-out renovation was carried out by over 1,000 craftsmen in the property on any given work-day. We were happy to see La Mamounia’s stunning outdoor pool is still intact (through redesigned) as well as a new indoor pool. If bodywork enthusiasts, we are sure you will very much enjoy the opulent, up-dated 27,000 sq. foot spa (must be 16 or older). Set amid 17 acres of lush gardens with olive and orange groves, La Mamounia is considered Marrakech’s premier luxury hotel among Morocco’s elite. What the Hassler is to Rome, we feel the La Mamounia is to Marrakech. The only downside here is La Mamounia’s somewhat snooty dress code. Casual wear is only permitted in the poolside Le Pavillion de la Piscine restaurant, while smart and dressy wear is required in all other areas. Of special note, Winston Churchill came here to paint, staying at the then grand old La Mamounia and called it, “Simply the nicest place on Earth to spend an afternoon.“

Originally opened in 1923, this 210-room Moorish-style iconic luxury hotel recently completed a comprehensive three-year restoration. Under the guidance of Parisian designer Jacques Garcia, the detailed, meticulously laid-out renovation was carried out by over 1,000 craftsmen on the property on any given workday. We were happy to see La Mamounia’s stunning outdoor pool is still intact (through redesigned) as well as a new indoor pool. If you are bodywork enthusiast, we are sure you will very much enjoy the opulent, updated 27,000 sq. foot spa (must be 16 or older). Set amid 17 acres of lush gardens with olive and orange groves, La Mamounia is considered Marrakech’s premier luxury hotel among Morocco’s elite. What the Hassler is to Rome, we feel the La Mamounia is to Marrakech. The only downside here is La Mamounia’s somewhat snooty dress code. Casual wear is only permitted in the poolside Le Pavillion de la Piscine restaurant, while smart and dressy wear is required in all other areas. Of special note, Winston Churchill came here to paint, staying at the then grand old La Mamounia, and called it, “Simply the nicest place on Earth to spend an afternoon.“

Though we are big fans of the historic 210-room luxury La Mamounia Marrakech, we consider the luxury boutique 27-room Villa des Orangers to be a unique, traditional medina-style house option. Located close to the Jemma El Fna Square, the rooms and suites are built around three lush green patios with a fountain, leading to galleries with carved plater arcades. The property includes a traditional hammam and a luxurious all-inclusive spa. We really like the overall aesthetic at Villa des Orangers, combining traditional Moroccan design and hospitality with high-end amenities and accommodations.

Though we are big fans of the historic 210-room luxury La Mamounia Marrakech, we consider the luxury boutique 27-room Villa des Orangers to be a unique, traditional medina-style house option. Located close to the Jemma El Fna Square, the rooms and suites are built around three lush green patios with a fountain, leading to galleries with carved plater arcades. The property includes a traditional hammam and a luxurious all-inclusive spa. We really like the overall aesthetic at Villa des Orangers, combining traditional Moroccan design and hospitality with high-end amenities and accommodations.

Kasbah Bab Ourika is a luxury 40 room Berber-style retreat situated an hour outside of the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh in the stunning Ourika Valley. On its hilltop at the apex of the Ourika Valley, it looks down to the river, green fields and groves of olives, oranges, and lemons, and up to the dazzling snowy mountain peaks. With 360 degree panoramic views, Kasbah Bab Ourika receives warm sunlight all day ending in spectacular sunsets. Relax in the uniquely decorated rooms, unwind by the secluded swimming pool or indulge in a luxurious treatment at the outdoor spa. Above all, The Kasbah offers peace and relaxation in spectacular surroundings.

Kasbah Bab Ourika is a luxury 40 room Berber-style retreat situated an hour outside of the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh in the stunning Ourika Valley. On its hilltop at the apex of the Ourika Valley, it looks down to the river, green fields and groves of olives, oranges, and lemons, and up to the dazzling snowy mountain peaks. With 360 degree panoramic views, Kasbah Bab Ourika receives warm sunlight all day ending in spectacular sunsets. Relax in the uniquely decorated rooms, unwind by the secluded swimming pool or indulge in a luxurious treatment at the outdoor spa. Above all, The Kasbah offers peace and relaxation in spectacular surroundings.

An approximately 70-minute drive from Marrakech, we feel this high-altitude luxury resort, owned by Richard Branson’s Virgin Luxury Group, is a wonderful full-day or one-night relaxing excursion.

Located in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains above the village of Asni (approx. 4330 ft. elevation), Tamadot was first renovated over 25 years ago by Venetian interior designer Luciano Tempo. With Branson’s purchase of the property in 1998, Tamadot was transformed into a comprehensive 27-room luxury resort. Each room/suite is individually designed with a mix of traditional Moroccan and contemporary pieces.

Other features include a full-service spa, indoor AND outdoor pools, and delectable dining options. In addition to uniquely designed suites/rooms (the Aman and Tazort are gems!), a stay in the private Berber-tented rooms a short walk from the main building is a special experience.

Following a year of being closed to the public after the September 2023 earthquake that hit the Atlas Mountains, Kasbah Tamadot reopened with a total renovation of the property, in addition to the formation of six new riads. The six-bedroom riads are ideal for large groups and families, each featuring a living room, a terrace, a plunge pool, and views of the garden, pool, or mountains. The riads are outfitted with an expansive collection of antiques from former owner, Luciano Tempo. We particularly love the handmade decor created by local Berber artisans who have received craftsmanship training from the Eve Branson Foundation.

Our last visit to Kasbah Tamadot was pre-pandemic, so we are eagerly awaiting our return to once again experience the Atlas Mountain landscape and local culture that is embedded into every element of the hotel.

Royal Mansour Marrakech
Though officially opened in 2010, the Royal Mansour Marrakech has a storied history. King Mohammed VI of Morocco commissioned a palace to be repurposed as a luxury hotel with an unlimited budget, which has certainly paid off based on the striking/luxurious property. With Moroccan architectural influences, careful craftsmanship, and expert use of color theory, the opulent Royal Mansour stands out among the best Marrakech properties. The intimate, 53-bedroom hotel offers traditional Morrocan riad accommodations, with rooms starting at 1,500 sq. ft., featuring spacious interiors, mosaic-lined entryways, and design elements showcasing the work of local artisans. Situated in Marrakech (just a five-minute walk from Djemaa El Fna Square!), we love this property’s convenient location and luxury amenities, including four onsite restaurants, three bars, and The Spa Royal Mansour Marrakech, offering beauty, wellness, massage, and fitness treatments. Of utmost significance is the spa’s Hammam; located in the master room, this traditional facility is surrounded by white marble tiles and opulent fountains, making for an entirely immersive purifying experience. Enjoy!

Though we are big fans of the historic 210-room luxury La Mamounia Marrakech, we consider the luxury boutique 27-room Villa des Orangers to be a unique, traditional medina-style house option. Located close to the Jemma El Fna Square, the rooms and suites are built around three lush green patios with a fountain, leading to galleries with carved plater arcades. The property includes a traditional hammam and a luxurious all-inclusive spa. We really like the overall aesthetic at Villa des Orangers, combining traditional Moroccan design and hospitality with high-end amenities and accommodations.

We enjoy the architecturally-striking Sultana Marrakech, located in the heart of Kasbah, just 10 minutes from Djemaa El-Fnaa Square by foot. The luxury boutique hotel offers 28 rooms and suites (!), each uniquely decorated with traditional Moroccan art collections. Though we cannot ignore the property’s grand designs, adorned with antique furniture and deep, sculpted ceilings, the most significant features of La Sultana are its heated pool, expertly sculpted patios and gardens, and 21,528 sq. ft. rooftop terrace, offering vast panoramic views of the Souks, the Medina, and the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. Additional amenities include three onsite restaurants and bars (two on rooftops!) and the world-class pink marbled spa, featuring a fully equipped fitness center with guided classes, massage treatments, and a traditional Hammam. Enjoy!

Kasbah Bab Ourika is a luxury 40 room Berber-style retreat situated an hour outside of the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh in the stunning Ourika Valley. On its hilltop at the apex of the Ourika Valley, it looks down to the river, green fields and groves of olives, oranges, and lemons, and up to the dazzling snowy mountain peaks. With 360 degree panoramic views, Kasbah Bab Ourika receives warm sunlight all day ending in spectacular sunsets. Relax in the uniquely decorated rooms, unwind by the secluded swimming pool or indulge in a luxurious treatment at the outdoor spa. Above all, The Kasbah offers peace and relaxation in spectacular surroundings.

The 32-room luxury Riad Fes Relais & Châteaux is a historic boutique hotel and restaurant located in the ancient city of Fes. Often described as embodying “Moroccan-Andalusian elegance,” the property has been restored to preserve all imperial detail (including marble basins, sculpted doors, zelliges on walls, stucco arcades, and carved windows)! With traditional Hispanic-Moorish style architecture overlooking the Atlas Mountains, the Riad was once home to one of the most refined/noble families in Fes in the XIVth century.

Luxury amenities include four uniquely styled patios, a panoramic rooftop terrace, a fountain garden surrounded by orange trees, two beautiful pools, a luxury onsite restaurant and bar, and a spectacular spa offering a variety of traditional treatments with two Hammams. The Riad Fes truly makes for contemporary, high-end experience.

The 32-room luxury Riad Fes Relais & Châteaux is a historic boutique hotel and restaurant located in the ancient city of Fes. Often described as embodying “Moroccan-Andalusian elegance,” the property has been restored to preserve all imperial detail (including marble basins, sculpted doors, zelliges on walls, stucco arcades, and carved windows)! With traditional Hispanic-Moorish style architecture overlooking the Atlas Mountains, the Riad was once home to one of the most refined/noble families in Fes in the XIVth century.

Luxury amenities include four uniquely styled patios, a panoramic rooftop terrace, a fountain garden surrounded by orange trees, two beautiful pools, a luxury onsite restaurant and bar, and a spectacular spa offering a variety of traditional treatments with two Hammams. The Riad Fes truly makes for contemporary, high-end experience.