17 Days Casablanca, Cairo, Nile Cruise, and Petra Tour

The extraordinary Hassan II Mosque is a remarkable modern landmark where architecture, spirituality, and the ocean meet in perfect harmony. Completed in 1993 and dramatically positioned along the Atlantic shoreline, this grand sanctuary was designed by architect Michel Pinseau and crafted by master artisans from across the kingdom. Its elegant 210-meter minaret rises above vast prayer halls and marble courtyards, creating one of the most breathtaking religious monuments in the world and a powerful symbol of Moroccan craftsmanship and devotion.

A panoramic tour of Casablanca follows, revealing the city’s fascinating contrasts. Along the lively seaside promenades of La Corniche and Ain Diab, contemporary coastal life unfolds beside the Atlantic waves. Broad avenues influenced by French urban design highlight the city’s 20th-century transformation, while the historic Quartier Habous and the Old Medina preserve traditional architecture and bustling souks. Landmarks such as Rick’s Café, Mohammed V Square, the Sacred Heart Cathedral, and the energetic Central Market reflect the vibrant multicultural character of Morocco’s largest city.

You will then travel by private vehicle to Rabat, Morocco’s refined capital, where centuries of history coexist gracefully with modern governance.

The impressive Hassan Tower is a striking reminder of the Almohad greatness and majesty. Commissioned in the 12th century by Caliph Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur, it was intended to be one of the largest mosques ever planned. Construction ended in 1199 after the caliph’s death, leaving behind the imposing 44-meter minaret and rows of stone columns that hint at the scale of the unfinished vision.

The divine Mausoleum of Mohammed V is the final resting place of King Mohammed V alongside King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. Completed in 1971 and designed by architect Cong Vo Toan, this elegant white-marble monument combines traditional Moroccan decoration with refined modern design, creating a space filled with dignity, harmony, and quiet reverence.

After lunch at a local restaurant, your exploration continues with Rabat’s historic landmarks.

The Kasbah of the Udayas overlooks the meeting point of river and ocean, where narrow lanes and Andalusian gardens open to sweeping coastal views. At its entrance stands the ornate Bab Oudaia Gate, dating back to the late 12th century, showcasing classic Almohad stone craftsmanship and timeless architectural beauty.

The Royal Palace of Rabat (Dar al-Makhzen) is a majestic structure that was constructed in 1864 and still serves as the official residence of Morocco’s monarchy. Set within guarded gates and expansive courtyards, the palace complex reflects the authority and continuity of the Moroccan royal tradition. While interior access is restricted, its grand exterior remains deeply impressive.

As the day gently concludes, you will travel toward the enchanting mountain town of Chefchaouen, pausing for scenic views along the way. Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxing stroll through the city’s famous blue-washed medina before settling in for a peaceful overnight stay surrounded by the calm beauty of the Rif Mountains.

Chefchaouen became known for its mesmerizing blue-washed architecture since it was founded in 1471 AD as a fortified mountain settlement. From the 15th and 16th centuries onward, Andalusian and Jewish communities introduced the tradition of painting the town in calming shades of blue colors often associated with spirituality, the sky, and divine tranquility. As you wander through the medina’s narrow passages, staircases, and arched doorways, each brushed in tones ranging from soft azure to deep indigo, the town reveals an atmosphere of serenity unlike anywhere else in Morocco. Today, this distinctive blue medina stands among the country’s most photographed and captivating historic landscapes.

Outa el Hammam Square is a graceful historic gathering place that has long served as the social center of Chefchaouen. Dominating the square is the Kasbah, a fortified citadel built soon after the town’s founding in the 15th century. Its earthy red walls create a striking contrast against the surrounding blue streets. Lined with cafés, small restaurants, and traditional shops, the square captures the gentle rhythm of daily life, from the pouring of sweet mint tea to lively conversations that fill the air as evening lights begin to glow.

After your exploration, continue by private vehicle toward Fes, enjoying lunch along the journey. Upon arrival, your guide will introduce you to one of Morocco’s most historic cities, entering through its impressive Royal Gate before exploring the cultural and spiritual heart of the country.

Al-Qarawiyyin University is a house of ancient wisdom founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri and recognized as the world’s oldest continuously operating university. For centuries, its scholars studied theology, astronomy, mathematics, and law, shaping Islamic scholarship while influencing intellectual thought across Europe and beyond.

The magnificent Bou Inania Madrasa is a grand masterpiece of 14th-century Marinid architecture. Uniquely serving both as a madrasa and congregational mosque, the structure displays remarkable craftsmanship through intricately carved cedarwood, polished marble surfaces, and elaborate muqarnas ceilings that represent the height of artistic refinement during the Marinid era.

The epic Chouara Tanneries have been in continuous operation since medieval times. The artisans still use natural dyes such as saffron and indigo to color leather in the same traditional way practiced for centuries. From surrounding terraces, the honeycomb-like vats filled with vibrant hues create one of Fes’s most iconic and enduring images of living craftsmanship.

The beautiful Nejjarine Fountain is a majestic 18th-century architectural gem decorated with delicate floral zellij tiles and finely carved cedarwood. Located beside a historic caravanserai that once hosted traveling merchants, it reflects Fes’s long-standing importance as a center of commerce and cultural exchange.

The revered Moulay Idriss Mausoleum is a glorious establishment dedicated to Moulay Idriss II, the founder of Fes and a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad who passed away in 828 AD. Though non-Muslims cannot enter the inner sanctuary, visitors can admire its exquisite zellij tiles, cedarwood doors, marble columns, and softly glowing lanterns, all reflecting the deep spiritual significance of this sacred site.

The surrounding Fes el-Bali medina itself feels like a journey into a living medieval world. With more than 9,000 narrow alleys, it remains the largest car-free urban area on Earth. Donkeys transport goods through winding streets, while artisan workshops continue centuries-old crafts that have shaped the city’s identity for generations.

As evening settles over the ancient city, you will retire to a traditional riad in Fes, where peaceful courtyards, intricate mosaics, and lantern-lit arches provide a serene and atmospheric setting for your overnight stay.

Rissani is a bright desert town steeped in centuries of history and tradition. Emerging like an oasis of culture amid the arid plains, Rissani has long served as a gateway between Morocco and the vast Sahara. From the medieval period through the 14th to 18th centuries, it thrived as a vibrant caravan hub where merchants traded gold, salt, spices, and other precious goods arriving from sub-Saharan Africa. These bustling trade routes transformed the town into a prosperous center of commerce and influence, eventually earning it a unique place in Moroccan history as the birthplace of the country’s ruling dynasty.

During your exploration, you will enjoy your lunch along the journey, then continue to:

The Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Sharif is Rissani’s most revered landmark, which was built in the 17th century in honor of Moulay Ali Sharif (d. 1659), the founder of the Alaouite dynasty, which has ruled Morocco since 1631 and continues to reign today. As a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, Moulay Ali Sharif’s lineage granted deep religious legitimacy to the dynasty’s authority. Surrounded by peaceful palm groves and the quiet beauty of the desert, the mausoleum remains one of southern Morocco’s most important pilgrimage sites. Its graceful architecture and tranquil atmosphere reflect the profound spiritual heritage that connects Morocco’s royal history with the traditions of the Sahara.

The remarkable Aït Ben Haddou is an ancient fortified ksar where natural beauty and historic architecture blend in a stunning desert setting. Dating back to the 11th century during the Almoravid era, this iconic village was constructed entirely from sun-dried clay and earth using traditional southern Moroccan techniques. Recognized as a masterpiece of Moroccan earthen architecture, Aït Ben Haddou has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. Its tiered buildings climb the hillside in warm golden shades, overlooking the valley along what was once an important caravan route linking the Sahara with Marrakech. Designed as a defensive settlement, the ksar features tightly packed houses, narrow alleys, and protective walls that once safeguarded both residents and valuable trade goods. 

Within this historic settlement, winding passageways, ancient granaries, and scenic viewpoints reveal how desert communities once lived, traded, and protected their resources in a challenging environment. Its dramatic setting has also attracted filmmakers from around the world, appearing in famous productions such as Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Mummy (1999), Gladiator (2000), Kingdom of Heaven (2005), Prince of Persia (2010), the television series Game of Thrones, and many others, making it both a cultural treasure and a celebrated cinematic landmark.

From here, the road climbs into the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains, crossing the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 2,260 meters above sea level. Along this scenic mountain route, sweeping views of rugged peaks and deep valleys unfold at every turn. As the mountains gradually give way to open plains, you descend toward Marrakech, the vibrant Red City, where you settle in for an overnight stay surrounded by its warm terracotta colors and lively atmosphere.

The Giza Plateau is a heavenly realm of marvels that was established around 2600 BC during the 4th Dynasty of the Old Kingdom (2613–2494 BC), rising from the desert as the ultimate symbol of ancient Egyptian civilization. This vast royal necropolis reflects extraordinary architectural skill, sacred symbolism, and remarkable astronomical precision, preserving monuments that have inspired the world for more than four thousand years.

The Great Pyramid of Khufu (2609–2584 BC) is a miraculous structure that was completed around 2570 BC under the supervision of the architect Hemiunu, remains the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. Built from roughly 2.3 million limestone blocks, each weighing about 2.5 tons, the pyramid originally reached 138.5 meters (454.4 ft) in height and weighs nearly six million tons. Its precise alignment with the four cardinal directions reveals an extraordinary understanding of mathematics and astronomy.

The Great Sphinx is a living piece of art that was commissioned by Pharaoh Khafre (2558–2532 BC) and was carved directly from the natural limestone bedrock. With the body of a lion and the face symbolizing royal authority, it has watched over the plateau for millennia. Between its paws stands the Dream Stele of Thutmose IV (1401 BC), which recounts a royal vision that adds to the monument’s enduring mystery.

The Valley Temple is a model of mythical superstition and medical brilliance dating back to the 4th Dynasty, where sacred funerary rituals once took place, including the ceremonial “Opening of the Mouth.” Constructed from massive granite blocks and remarkably preserved, the temple highlights the spiritual beliefs and engineering mastery of Old Kingdom builders.

After lunch at a local restaurant, your exploration continues to one of the world’s most remarkable cultural institutions.

The Grand Egyptian Museum is a billion-dollar marvel that sheds light on more than 5,000 years of Egyptian history within a monumental complex that houses over 100,000 artifacts, including the complete treasures of Tutankhamun. Through modern architecture and immersive exhibitions, visitors encounter iconic highlights such as the colossal statue of Ramses II, Khufu’s solar boat, and Tutankhamun’s golden mask, alongside advanced conservation laboratories and galleries overlooking the pyramids.

The Saqqara Step Pyramid paved the road to establishing a golden dynasty of great structures. It was constructed between 2670 and 2650 BC for King Djoser by the brilliant architect Imhotep. Standing 62.5 meters (205 ft) tall, it represents the world’s earliest large-scale stone monument and marks the beginning of pyramid architecture that later culminated in the great pyramids of Giza.

As the day concludes, you will transfer to Cairo Airport for your flight to Aswan. Upon arrival, you will proceed to your hotel in Aswan for a restful overnight stay.

The Aswan High Dam opened the gate to the modern world. It was constructed between 1960 and 1970, stands as one of Egypt’s most significant modern achievements. By controlling the flow of the Nile and producing hydroelectric power, the dam transformed the country’s economy, protected farmland from destructive flooding, and became a cornerstone of Egypt’s modern development.

The glorious Unfinished Obelisk is an enormous monument that would have been the largest obelisk ever created in ancient Egypt. Commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut (1508–1458 BC) to complement the obelisks of the Karnak Temple Complex, including the famous Lateran Obelisk now standing in Rome, the project was abandoned after a crack appeared in the granite. Still resting within its quarry, the obelisk provides rare insight into the stone-cutting methods used by ancient Egyptian craftsmen.

The beautiful Philae temple is a true ancient symbol of love and sacrifice dedicated to the goddess Isis, the divine symbol of love, devotion, and rebirth. Originally located on Philae Island and built between 380 and 362 BC during the Greco-Roman period, the temple was carefully dismantled and relocated to Agilkia Island as part of the UNESCO Nubia Campaign, protecting this sacred sanctuary from the rising waters caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam.

The marvelous Kom Ombo Temple is an artistic marvel distinguished by its rare symmetrical design, featuring twin entrances, double hypostyle halls, and two sanctuaries arranged in perfect balance. Built between 180 BC and 47 BC during the Ptolemaic period, this unique temple was dedicated to two gods: Haroeris (Horus the Elder) and Sobek, the crocodile deity associated with the Nile. Its harmonious layout and finely carved reliefs make Kom Ombo one of the most distinctive and intriguing temples in ancient Egypt.

The magnificent Edfu temple is a glorious wonder known to be one of the largest and most remarkably preserved temples from Egypt’s Greco-Roman period. Built between 237 BC and 57 BC, this magnificent sanctuary was devoted to Horus, the falcon-headed god associated with kingship and protection. Its massive stone walls are richly decorated with intricate carvings that narrate the legendary battle between Horus and his adversary Seth, a myth representing the victory of harmony over chaos. Exploring its grand halls and courtyards offers a powerful glimpse into the religious traditions and artistic excellence of the Ptolemaic era.

The miraculous Valley of the Kings served as the royal necropolis for Egypt’s pharaohs of the 18th to 20th Dynasties during the New Kingdom (1570–1050 BC). For nearly five centuries, this sacred valley hid the tombs of powerful rulers such as Ramses II and Tutankhamun, their richly decorated burial chambers carved deep into the desert mountains as part of Egypt’s profound beliefs in the afterlife.

The golden Hatshepsut temple (1508-1458 BC) rises dramatically against the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari on Luxor’s West Bank. Built around 1479 BC, this remarkable monument was designed to honor one of Egypt’s most influential female pharaohs. Its elegant terraces and harmonious design make it one of the most striking and best-preserved architectural achievements of ancient Egypt.

The sky piercer Colossi of Memnon are two massive quartzite statues of Amenhotep III (1386–1349 BC), loaded with many epic tales of glory and wonder, like the vocal phenomenon. These monumental figures are the last surviving remains of his once-great mortuary temple and continue to overlook the Theban landscape with timeless grandeur.

After visiting the Colossi of Memnon, have youe a lunch meal & relax. Then head with your tour guide to visit:

The divine Karnak temple complex is filled with the largest religious attractions ever built in ancient Egypt. It is dedicated to the Theban Triad, Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, this vast complex expanded over centuries between 2000 BC and 30 BC, covering nearly 247 acres. Among its highlights are the majestic Avenue of Sphinxes, the magnificent Great Hypostyle Hall with its towering columns, and numerous shrines and obelisks that reflect generations of devotion and architectural brilliance.

The Greek Orthodox Church of St. George is a remarkable 19th-century sanctuary that safeguards one of Christianity’s most extraordinary relics, the famous 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land. Crafted from thousands of delicate tesserae and accompanied by early Greek inscriptions, this intricate mosaic represents the oldest surviving cartographic depiction of Palestine, offering both artistic beauty and an invaluable glimpse into early Christian geography and devotion.

The spiritual Mount Nebo is believed to be the place where the Prophet Moses first viewed the Promised Land. From this elevated site overlooking the Jordan Valley, sweeping panoramas extend toward the Jordan River and distant landscapes. The quiet atmosphere of the summit creates a peaceful setting for reflection amid scenery deeply connected to biblical history.

The sublime Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth and one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world. Its mineral-rich waters and therapeutic mud have been valued for centuries, even in ancient healing rituals and Egyptian mummification. Floating effortlessly on its buoyant surface while surrounded by vast desert views offers a uniquely tranquil experience.

Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling authentic Jordanian flavors before continuing your adventure.

Petra is a divine desert flower that was carved into rose-colored sandstone by the ingenious Nabataeans, whose civilization flourished thousands of years ago. Once the thriving capital of their kingdom, the city is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Hidden within dramatic mountain gorges, Petra’s temples, tombs, and monumental façades remain powerful symbols of creativity, resilience, and architectural brilliance.

The ethereal Siq is an enchanting, narrow, and winding canyon bordered by towering cliffs. At its end, the breathtaking Al Khazneh (The Treasury) suddenly appears, its ornate façade carved in the 1st century AD during the reign of King Aretas IV. Illuminated by shifting desert light, this masterpiece reflects the wealth and artistic sophistication of Nabataean culture and gained worldwide recognition through films such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

The sublime Royal Tombs of Petra were carved into the eastern cliffs of Petra and were created for Nabataean kings and nobles. The Urn Tomb, Silk Tomb, Corinthian Tomb, and Palace Tomb each display distinctive architectural styles and intricate detailing, revealing the refinement and prestige of Nabataean society.

The Great Theatre of Petra is a mesmerizing marvel that was originally carved into the rock in the early 1st century AD and later expanded during the Roman period to accommodate nearly 7,000 spectators. Its design beautifully blends Nabataean engineering with classical architectural influence.

The captivating Qasr al-Bint is an archaeological gem that was built between 30 BC and 40 AD, and is one of Petra’s rare freestanding temples. Dedicated to Nabataean deities, its remarkable survival through centuries of earthquakes and natural forces reflects both deep spiritual devotion and advanced construction techniques.

After exploring Petra’s rose-red monuments, your journey continues to the breathtaking desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. Here, you will enjoy a memorable dinner beneath a vast canopy of stars while savoring authentic Bedouin cuisine in the peaceful silence of the desert.

Wadi Rum reveals itself as a vast wilderness of crimson sand dunes, towering sandstone mountains, and ancient inscriptions dating back more than 12,000 years. Covering nearly 720 square kilometers and protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this spectacular desert has inspired explorers and filmmakers alike, appearing in classics such as Lawrence of Arabia and The Martian. Depending on time, you may explore its dramatic terrain by jeep, camel, or on foot, discovering landmarks such as Lawrence Spring, Little Bridge, Khazali Canyon, and the magnificent Burdah Arch.