Holiday surcharges may apply
Pricing subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking
Bespoke Private Holiday
Private transport and English-speaking guide throughout
13 Days Casablanca to Marrakech
13 Days Casablanca to Marrakech
Departs Daily
Casablanca (1) | Fes (3) | Erfoud (1) | Merzouga Desert (1) | Ouarzazate (1) | Marrakech (3) | Atlas Mountains (2)
Embark on an unforgettable 13-day private journey through the heart of Morocco, where ancient cities, dramatic landscapes, and rich culture await. Travelling in the comfort of a chauffeured air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle with an expert English-speaking guide, you’ll experience the country in style, staying in a handpicked selection of deluxe accommodations—including elegant hotels, traditional riads, and a luxurious desert camp under the stars.
This immersive itinerary combines Morocco’s iconic highlights with authentic local experiences, creating a luxurious and enriching travel experience like no other.
Highlights:
- Marvel at the architectural grandeur of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, the tallest minaret in the world
- Wander through the tranquil Andalusian Gardens and the Oudayas Kasbah in Rabat
- Discover the best-preserved medieval city in the Arab world in Fez
- Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, home to stunning mosaics and arches
- Experience the charm of Meknes, with its majestic Bab Mansour Gate
- Visit the fossil quarries of Erfoud, renowned for its ancient finds
- Embark on a camel ride across the golden dunes at sunset
- Spend a night under the stars at a luxury desert camp
- Drive by the ancient Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Wander in the vibrant Marrakech medina and its bustling souks, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Visit the iconic Majorelle Garden and Yves Saint Laurent Museum
- Discover Sir Richard Branson's award-winning retreat in the Atlas Mountains
- Explore the Berber villages on a scenic hike in the Atlas Mountains
- Take a tea break with local family in the Atlas Mountains
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Casablanca (D)
"Marhaba"! This is the traditional greeting used in Morocco, meaning a warm "hello and welcome!".
Arrive Casablanca Airport. Upon arrival, an airport representative will greet you and assist with FAST TRACK immigration formalities. After collecting your luggage, you’ll meet our representative and be escorted to your private vehicle and transferred to your luxurious hotel for an overnight stay. Dinner is included this evening at your hotel.
The name Casablanca conjures images of romance, adventure, and tropical allure, much like the 1943 Humphrey Bogart film. Originally settled by Berbers in the 7th century, Casablanca has grown into Morocco’s vibrant, French-influenced business hub.
Day 2: Casablanca - Rabat - Fes (293kms) (B)
Explore Casablanca with your private guide, starting with the magnificent Hassan II Grand Mosque, one of Morocco's few accessible mosques. It accommodates up to 25,000 worshipers and boasts the world's tallest minaret, illuminating Mecca with lasers at night. Continue to Mohammed V Square, United Nations Square, and Arab League Park. Experience a modern medina in Quartier Habbous.
Drive to Rabat, the capital, and discover the Citadel of Challah, once a Roman port city. Visit the iconic Hassan Tower, dating back to 1195. Continue your city tour of Rabat with a visit to Kasbah des Oudayas, a picturesque palace guarded by an impressive arched gate. Next continue to the Mohamed VI Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art.
At the conclusion of your tour, continue to the cultural heart of Morocco, magical Fes. Founded in the 8th century, it is home to several famed historical monuments, among them Karaouine, the world’s first university. The sprawling Medina of this UNESCO Cultural Heritage site will take you a step back in time to the Middle Ages. Your accommodation for the following three nights is a restored 1930's Relais & Chateaux property in the heart of the Fes medina.
Note: Journey time today approx. 4hours, not including stops
Day 3: Fes (B)
Today, step back into the Middle Ages with a visit to Fes El Bali, the world’s largest living medieval medina-city and Morocco’s cultural heart. Wander through some of the 9,000 narrow lanes, alleys, and souks in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fes was a renowned centre of medieval learning and at its heart lies the Karaouine, one of the world’s oldest functioning universities. In the neighbouring building is the 14th-century Attarine Medersa, a jewel of Hispano-Moorish architecture.
Continue to Nejjarine Square with its ornate mosaic fountain and visit the former Fondouq (caravanserai), now converted into a museum of carpentry artifacts. Discover Fes’ famous leather tanneries, where centuries-old methods are still used to produce high-quality leather goods. Sip on a mint tea in a traditional riad-style shop while viewing antique Moroccan rugs and learning about regional weaving styles. End the day in Fes El Jedid (New Fes), the 13th-century royal city. Admire the Royal Palace, mosques, medersas (schools), souks and the city wall. Most notably, Fes El Jedid is home to the Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter known for its distinctive architecture.
Finally, visit a pottery factory to discover how the beautiful zellij tiles are made. These tiles are fantastic examples of Arabo-Andalusian décor and are also used in the manufacture of the famous tagines
Day 4: Fes - Volubilis - Meknes - Fes (122kms) (BL)
Today, depart overland to Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its impressive Roman ruins, including triumphal arches, basilicas, and remarkably preserved mosaic floors.
Next, visit a vineyard nestled between the foothills of the Rif, the Middle Atlas Mountains and between the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. This area has been known for producing powerful, full-bodied, fruity and expressive wines for over 2,000 years. Head to Chateau Roslae for a delightful 3-course lunch, with each dish thoughtfully paired with a distinct wine from the estate, surrounded by scenic views of the vineyards.
After lunch, continue to Meknes, another UNESCO site and one of Morocco’s Imperial Cities. Admire the grand Bab Mansour gateway and learn about the city built by Sultan Moulay Ismail. Conclude the day with a brief visit to the holy town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, before returning to your hotel in Fes.
Note: Journey time today approx. 3hours 15mins, not including stops
Day 5: Fes - Erfoud (400kms) (BD)
Today, travel into the desert, passing through the impressive Atlas Mountains and discover the Tafilalet region, famous for its savoury dates and gorgeous scenery. Dinner is included at your hotel tonight.
Notes:
* Journey time today approx. 7hours, not including stops
* For your time in the Desert Tented Camp luggage is limited to one small bag (tote bag, overnight bag, backpack or similar). Take just those items you will need for your one night in camp. Your remaining luggage will be held by our representative and returned to you the following day.
Day 6: Erfoud - Merzouga (60kms) (BD)
Erfoud is a largely French-built administrative center and is known for its delightful palm dates.
Today, discover the Tafilalet region, famous for its savoury dates and gorgeous scenery. Visit Rissani, the last visible point of the Ziz River and stroll through a centuries-old palm grove and meet some furry friends at the donkey parking area. Then, take a look at Erfoud's quarry, where fossils have been found from the sea that used to lie here. Nowadays, the mining of these fossilized rocks is a growing and popular industry in this part of Morocco and the fossilized rocks excavated here are used to produce beautiful decorative objects ranging from crockery to furniture. Following your visit head back to your hotel for lunch (to be paid locally), before your journey to the sand dunes.
In the afternoon, head south travelling by four-wheel-drive vehicle along the desert dunes of Merzouga to your luxury tented campsite, The White Camel Acacia. On arrival, there will be a reception of mint tea and pastries followed by a sundowner drink in the dunes. After resting, embark on a memorable camel ride across the sand dunes, then later this evening, savour a mouth-watering dinner served around a campfire, or in a tent, complete with traditional entertainment.
Day 7: Merzouga - Ouarzazate (367kms) (BD)
Today travel overland to Ouarzazate. The city was once a stopping point for African traders en-route to the cities of Morocco and Europe. Visit the Todra Gorges and the even more impressive, picturesque oases that they hide. Travel through the southern slopes of the High Atlas range, following the Dades Valley and passing flourishing crops, irrigation canals and palm trees.
Following the 1000 Kasbahs Road, marvel at the breathtaking vistas of impressive, ancient Kasbahs nestled in lush palm groves. Along the way make a stop to visit an amazing, small private museum in a Ksar near Tingherir, which houses exhibits that showcase the local art, culture and history. Your journey crosses the little city of Skoura, nestled in a gorgeous palm grove and continues to your hotel in Ouarzazate where accommodation is for one night with dinner included.
Ouarzazate was built as a French garrison in the 1920s. Today it is a regional trade center known for pottery and carpets.
Note: Journey time today approx. 6hours, not including stops
Day 8: Ouarzazate - Marrakech (204kms) (B)
Today, journey through the stunning Atlas Mountains en route to vibrant Marrakech. Along the way, stop in the fortified village of Ait Benhaddou, the best-preserved and most exotic Kasbah in the Atlas region, featured in films like Gladiator, The Mummy, and Lawrence of Arabia. Continue over the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, the highest in the region at 2,260 meters, pausing to take in the sweeping panoramic views. As your journey continues, pass picturesque villages and admire the lush green eucalyptus trees, contrasting the red hue of the rocky hills. Catch the aromas of chwaya (grilled meat) and Berber tagines, often topped with a signature tomato.
Arrive in Marrakech, known as the Red City, Pearl of the South, Jewel of the South - just a few of the nicknames Marrakech has acquired over the years. With its roots as a major trade hub, Marrakech blends Berber, Arab, and African influences. Experience the city’s contrasts—refined palaces alongside snake charmers and the pulsing rhythms of Jemaa el-Fna Square, one of the world’s most lively marketplaces.
Your accommodation for the following three nights is at the immaculately refurbished, traditional Morrocan style, La Villa des Orangers - a riad-style hotel located just minutes from the hive of activity of Jemaa el-Fna Square.
Note: Journey time today approx. 4hours, not including stops
Day 9: Marrakech (BL)
Today, explore the hidden wonders of Marrakech accompanied by your guide. From intriguing historic landmarks to the bustling alleyways of the Medina, Marrakech is sure to mesmerize you with its rich history and culture. Wander through the labyrinthine souks, traditionally dominated by the sale of textiles, clothing and Moroccan handicrafts.
Visit the newly renovated Ben Youssef Medersa, one of the jewels of Marrakech. The current structure of this Koranic school was built around 1570. It is the biggest Medersa (school) in the whole of the Maghreb (North-West Africa) and is renowned for its magnificent architecture featuring zellij tilework, carved wood and stucco work.
Next, explore Jemaa el-Fna, the city's main square, which is home to a multitude of street artists and food stalls. Continue on to the Koutoubia Mosque, an emblem of Marrakech: while it is not possible to enter the mosque, its beauty can be admired from the gardens and the square. Formally the private residence of Thami El Glaoui (who ruled over Marrakech from 1912 to 1956), Dar El Bacha Palace has historically hosted magnificent celebrations and receptions in the presence of the Greats of this world, including Winston Churchill and Jacques Majorelle. After several years of heavy rehabilitation work, the palace was reopened by his Majesty King Mohamed VI in 2017. The colorful, geometric tiles, painted ceilings and carved cedarwood are an exhibition on their own, but the palace also boasts an area for the Art of Islam, an international collection of Patty Cadby Birch that represents the four continents as well as a private, temporary, exhibition space.
NOTE: A light lunch is included today at Villa des Orangers (between noon and 2:30pm)
Day 10: Marrakech (BLD)
Begin your day at the enchanting Majorelle Gardens, created in 1924 by French artist Jacques Majorelle. Wander through vivid cobalt-blue structures, lush groves, lily-filled pools, and sculptural cacti. The gardens feature exotic plants like bamboo, palms, and bougainvillea, with streams and fish filled pools enhancing the tranquil setting. Within the gardens, visit the Berber Museum, located in Majorelle’s former studio. Opened in 2011, it houses over 600 artifacts from across Morocco, offering a vivid insight into the history and culture of the Amazigh (Berber) people, arranged thematically in four rooms.
Continue to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, a striking 43,000-square-foot space designed by Paris-based firm Studio KO. It celebrates Yves Saint Laurent’s connection to Marrakech, showcasing his iconic works in a building inspired by contemporary and Moroccan architecture and color palettes.
In the evening, embark on a Moroccan tasting tour at Jemaa el-Fna. Begin with fresh orange juice, explore mint tea herbs, spices, and marinades used in traditional tajines, and sample adventurous bites like snails. End your evening with a Moroccan dinner at a nearby restaurant, featuring a selection of regional delicacies.
NOTE: A light lunch is included today at Villa des Orangers (between noon and 2:30pm)
Day 11: Marrakech - Atlas Mountains (65kms) (B)
Today unearth another side of Morocco, the gorgeous Atlas Mountains - North Africa's greatest mountain range, in addition to experiencing two different worlds: traditional Berber and modern luxury. Admire the stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and the little Berber villages nestled in the hills.
Upon your arrival in Imlil, embark on a journey to discover the fascinating Berber culture. Berbers are the original inhabitants of North Africa and they are composed of several tribes scattered throughout the region. Known as very proud and hard-working people, they have their own dialect, customs and traditions. Along a narrow road, arrive at a village located on a small hill, where you are met by a local family and welcomed in to their home. While visiting their humble house, you are shown the traditional oven in which Berber bread is cooked. Savor a sample of this fresh bread, accompanied by a refreshing mint tea as your host enlightens you, with the help of your guide, with tales of their family, history and culture.
Continue your journey to Kasbah Tamadot for a two-night stay. This gorgeous Richard Branson property is beautifully set in the foothills overlooking spectacular vistas, offering a blend of original features, traditional art and unique furniture, creating an opulent atmosphere.
Note: Journey time today approx. 1hour 30mins
Day 12: Atlas Mountains (B)
Enjoy a relaxing day at your own pace at the stunning Kasbah Tamadot, nestled in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. Take in the peaceful surroundings, unwind in the luxurious setting, or explore the nearby Berber villages and scenic trails. For your comfort and flexibility, a private vehicle with driver will be at your full disposal throughout the day. Whether you wish to venture into the surrounding valleys, visit a local souk, or simply enjoy a leisurely lunch in a nearby village, your day can be entirely tailored to your preferences.
Day 13: Atlas Mountains - Marrakech - Departure (B)
Today, bid farewell to Morocco as you depart for Marrakech Airport, for your onward flight. Our representative will meet you at the airport to assist and guide you to the FAST TRACK agent who will assist you with check-in formalities.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- Premium Fast track services at the airport during arrival and departure
- 12 night’s accommodation as specified
- Meals:
- Breakfast daily included in all hotels;
- Lunches: Day 4 at the Chateau Roslane in Meknes (with wine pairing), Day 9 & Day 10 light lunch is included at Villa des Orangers (from noon to 2:30pm, not exchangeable with dinner);
- Dinners: Day 1 at Royal Mansour in Casablanca, Day 5 at L'Hotel by Chateau de Sable in Erfoud, Day 6 at the Desert Camp in Merzouga, Day 7 at the Berbere Palace in Ouarzazate, Day 10 at a local rooftop restaurant after the tasting tour (including soft beverages). NOTE: Excludes beverages with meals unless specified.
- All transport services using chauffeur driven air-conditioned Vito/Viano Mercedes vehicle and includes mineral water
- Transfer from Casablanca Airport to the hotel on Day 1
- Vehicle at disposal from Day 2 to Day 12, available from 9am to 11pm
- Transfer from hotel to Marrakech Airport on Day 13
- English-speaking guide from day 2 till day 12 (available from 9am to 11pm)
- Special activities:
- Tasting tour in Marrakech
- Tea break with local family in the Atlas Mountains
- Camel ride at the desert camp
- 4WD for the Atlas Mountains excursion on Day 12
- All included excursions as specified in the itinerary comprise admission fees
- Welcome pack on arrival
- 24/7 local operator support
- Morocco Travel Notes issued by Innovative Travel
NOTE: Your itinerary includes visiting sites and monuments, those listed are the main city or region highlights. The order in which they appear is not necessarily the order in which you will visit them. According to your preferences and interests, you can skip some sites and discover others. Don’t hesitate to discuss this with your guide.
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International airfares
- Meals other than those specified
- Porterage at the hotels and airports
- Optional tours and excursions
- Beverages (except where specified in inclusions)
- Tipping/Gratuities for meals, drivers & guide (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Personal Expenses
- Departure taxes
- Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
- Visas (unless specified)
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
Accommodation based on the following (or similar):
The hotel selection may change – please use this as a guideline only.
Casablanca
Royal Mansour - Deluxe Room
The Royal Mansour Casablanca, originally built in 1952 in the district designed by town planner Michel Ecochard, is an emblematic building of Casablanca. Besides its history, it marks the crossing point between modern art and contemporary architecture, initiated by the pioneers, and the modern designer of the second generation of architects in Morocco. Inspired from this strong heritage with a look to the future to regain an undisputed influence in Casablanca, the Royal Mansour is the latest luxury property in town, offering the highest level of service, with a total of 149 guest rooms and suites, 7 event venues, 5 outlets for the gourmets and an amazing Spa on 2 levels.
Images Credit: Royal Mansour Casablanca
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Fes
Riad Fes - Relais & Chateau - Superior Deluxe Room
Benefiting from a prime location in the heart of the Fes medina, this luxurious Relais & Chateaux property, originally built in the 1930's by a noble Fassi family, has been lovingly restored to its former splendour. The history of this Imperial city is reflected in the Moroccan-Andalusian architecture and the exquisite attention to detail, as seen in the decor. Elegant rooms and suites are spread throughout five different parts of the property, each showcasing a particular style: Andalusian, Baroque, and Contemporary.
Images Credit: Riad Fes
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Erfoud
L'Hotel by Chateau de Sable - Double Suite
Note: Due to limited options in this area, accommodation for this night will be in a 4.5 star hotel (best available)
Located in Erfoud, L'Hotel by Chateau de Sable is the perfect place to rest for the night just before or just after the long journey through the majestic Sahara Desert. With its outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and cozy lounge bar, this boutique hotel urges wellbeing and relaxation. Rooms are comfortable, furnished with calming shades of blue and cream and all with flat-screen TV and private bathroom and shower.
Images Credit: L'Hotel by Chateau de Sable
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Merzouga
The White Camel Acacia - Luxury Tented Camp
Nestled among the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, The White Camel Acacia is a luxury desert camp that offers a truly intimate and memorable glamping experience. Created by Jawad and Abdel—two locals with a lifelong bond to the Sahara—this secluded retreat features only five beautifully handcrafted Berber-style tented lodges. Each lodge is thoughtfully designed for travelers in search of peace, authenticity, and the serene enchantment of the desert landscape.
Images Credit: White Camel Camp
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Ouarzazate
Le Berbere Palace - Junior Suite
Nestled in the heart of Ouarzazate, Berber Palace was built as a Kasbah while paying tribute to all the famous movies that were filmed in the region. Within its comfortable rooms, items used in the production of famous films such as Lawrence of Arabia are showcased harmoniously with the modern furniture and mixed with the handsome fabrics of local motifs. The property features a big pool, spa and three restaurants along with a bar-lounge area.
Images Credit: Le Berbere Palace
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Marrakech
La Villa des Orangers - Junior Suite with terrace
Immaculately refurbished in traditional Moroccan style, La Villa Des Orangers is a riad-style hotel located just minutes from the hive of activity of Jemaa el Fna Square, boasting panoramic views of the surrounding medina. The riad's stately lounges and elegant salons recreate the atmosphere of old Marrakech, with luxuriant fabrics and crackling log fires. The focal point of this inviting property is a central courtyard shaded by the eponymous orange trees, where a traditional Moroccan breakfast or a light lunch is served. All of the superbly appointed bedrooms and suites are decorated in warm hues and open onto shared courtyards or feature individual roof terraces.
Images Credit: La Villa des Orangers
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Atlas Mountains
Kasbah Tamadot - Superior Suite
Kasbah Tamadot sits in an idyllic location nestled among the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains, creating an immense sense of privacy. The property is the former home of Luciano Tempo, who filled it with beautiful antiques of Arabic, Oriental and Indian origin. The Kasbah was then purchased by Sir Richard Branson in 1998 and wonderfully restored to become one of the most luxury properties in Morocco. Tamadot is full of peaceful courtyards, hidden staircases, landscaped gardens and breathtaking views. Many of the staff members come from the surrounding Berber villages, giving you a sense of staying in a Moroccan home rather than a hotel. Luxury rooms and suites are all individually decorated using traditional Moroccan furnishings and antiques whilst the restaurant, bars and outdoor infinity pool all offer stunning panoramic views.
Images Credit: Kasbah Tamadot
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Private touring in Morocco
On your private tour of Morocco, touring is by private air-conditioned car with a chauffeur and professional English-speaking guide throughout. All guides are certified by the Moroccan ministry of Tourism and have plenty of experience and excellent references from years of being in the field - they will take care of all of the logistics and show you around this incredible country. Your driver will have some English capability, but is not a licensed professional guide and communication may be basic at times as Arabic and French are the main languages spoken in Morocco with English the 3rd and not often spoken language.
Please remember that Morocco is a large country and some days of touring will necessitate long periods of driving. There also may be times when, due to road conditions, the itinerary may vary slightly.
Morocco has a tradition of a multi course lunches, heavier and longer than what we are used to in New Zealand. If you prefer to have a lighter and quicker lunch, please ensure this is explained to your driver.
Ramadan
During the Holy Month of Ramadan Muslims fast, abstaining from eating, drinking & smoking during daylight hours (approx. 7am-6.30pm). As a sign of respect, tourists should also try to refrain from these activities in public during the fasting hours. Restaurants and cafes in hotels will be open, however limited alcohol may be available over this time and is usually not served until after sunset and some riads and other locations may not serve alcohol at all during this period. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday 17th February. After 30 days, or on sighting the full moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated & most public and private institutions close for at least three days.
During the Holy Month of Ramadan Muslims fast, abstaining from eating, drinking & smoking during daylight hours (approx. 7am-6.30pm). As a sign of respect, tourists should also try to refrain from these activities in public during the fasting hours. Restaurants and cafes in hotels will be open, however limited alcohol may be available over this time and is usually not served until after sunset and some riads and other locations may not serve alcohol at all during this period. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday 17th February. After 30 days, or on sighting the full moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated & most public and private institutions close for at least three days.
Riads
Riads are traditional town houses typically build around an open courtyard. They offer a unique and authentic style of accommodation and usually feature less than 10 rooms. They are generally family-run properties with limited staff undertaking multiple roles and duties. Depending on their standard Riads may not offer all the facilities you would expect to find in a modern hotel. i.e. the Wi-Fi internet access may be limited, there may not be a lift and the breakfast is usually more limited in choices and does vary from Riad to Riad. But the unique and charming atmosphere and the location in the heart of the Medina make up for it. During the Ramadan period, services are more restricted in riads. If you prefer the full services offered by 5 star international hotels, please request an alternative itinerary on this basis.
Riads are traditional town houses typically build around an open courtyard. They offer a unique and authentic style of accommodation and usually feature less than 10 rooms. They are generally family-run properties with limited staff undertaking multiple roles and duties. Depending on their standard Riads may not offer all the facilities you would expect to find in a modern hotel. i.e. the Wi-Fi internet access may be limited, there may not be a lift and the breakfast is usually more limited in choices and does vary from Riad to Riad. But the unique and charming atmosphere and the location in the heart of the Medina make up for it. During the Ramadan period, services are more restricted in riads. If you prefer the full services offered by 5 star international hotels, please request an alternative itinerary on this basis.
NOTE: Riad properties featured in the Platinum Itinerary are Deluxe category
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.
