Enchanting Morocco

Welcome! On arrival to Marrakesh you will be met by our representative and transferred to your 5-star accommodations for overnight.

The day is devoted to exploring Marrakesh, the "Pearl of the South." Marrakesh was founded in the 11th Century by the Almoravides. Stops may include the Koutoubia Minaret, the Saadien Tombs - a 14th Century necropolis, the Dar Si Said Museum, Bahia and Bedii palaces and the tanners square. Continue on to the souks with their narrow paths known for their fascinating colors, and the Djemaa El Fna, filled with fascinating characters, fire eaters, teeth pullers, fortune tellers, spice, nuts, and incense merchants, story tellers, snake charmers, and tame monkeys, to name a few, followed in the evening with a culinary tour through the market to introduce you to the different foods that are a favorite in Morocco. Overnight in Marrakesh. (B)

Our day’s excursion will take us to the south of Marrakesh to the Ourika Valley where the cooler mountain temperatures and rich soil allow an amazing variety of flowers, trees, and vegetables to be prolific. We will enjoy the shadows of the High Atlas peaks and have lunch at la Paradis du Saffran, a small organic farm that grows, among many other things, saffron. Return to Marrakesh for overnight. (B/L)

Today we will enjoy a morning cooking demonstration then free in the afternoon. Overnight in Marrakesh. (B)

After breakfast depart for Ouarzazate. Along the way you will visit Ait Benhaddou nestled in the midst of a forest of almond trees. Ait Benhaddou is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site situated on the southern slopes of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco. This ancient fortified city, also known as a ksar, boasts a breathtaking architectural ensemble that showcases the traditional earthen construction techniques of the region. With its intricate network of narrow streets, towering mud-brick buildings, and fortified walls, Ait Benhaddou feels like stepping back in time. It has served as a backdrop for numerous Hollywood movies, thanks to its captivating beauty and cinematic appeal. Continue to Ouarzazate, the movie set capital of Morocco. Dinner and overnight in Ouarzazate. (B/D)

After breakfast we will visit Ouarzazate including entrance to Taourirt Kasbah. Renowned for its stunning landscapes and unique cinematic history, Ouarzazate has earned the nickname "The Hollywood of Morocco." The city is home to several major film studios and has served as the backdrop for countless blockbuster movies and television series. Afterwards we depart for Merzouga, on the edge of the great Sahara Desert. The road from Ouarzazate passes through Tenghir and the Toda Gorges, sheer walled canyons carved into the mountains. Dinner and overnight in Erfoud. (B/D)

This morning we will have some time to explore Erfoud, known for the many fossilized prehistoric creatures found in the area. Culturally, Erfoud showcases the traditional Berber way of life. The local markets, or souks, are bustling with activity, offering a vibrant array of spices, handicrafts, and traditional Berber jewelry. We will then head by 4x4 vehicles to Merzoug and the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert. Take a camel ride and watch the sunset before having dinner and overnight at our luxury desert camp. (B/D)

After breakfast we depart the desert and head for Fes, passing through Midelt - Morocco’s apple country, and the mountain resort town of Ifrane. You may even catch a glimpse of a Barbary Macaque Monkey in Ifrane! Continue to Fes for overnight. (B)

Today we will explore Fes, the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco. With its rich history, ancient medina, and renowned educational institutions, Fes is a UNESCO World Heritage site that exudes an enchanting and authentic Moroccan charm. The city's medina, Fes el-Bali, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling markets, and intricate architecture that transports visitors back in time. This medieval walled city is one of the world's largest car-free urban areas and offers a remarkable glimpse into Morocco's past. As you wander through its narrow alleys, you'll encounter vibrant souks, artisan workshops, stunning mosques, and magnificent palaces. The tanneries of Fes are particularly famous, where leather goods are crafted using traditional techniques. Entrance to the Bouanania Medersa is included. Overnight in Fes. (B)

Today we will have an early breakfast then depart for Chefchaouen. Head northwest from Fes and stop at the city of Meknes, the "Moroccan Versailles," which was founded at the end of the 17th century by Moulay Ismail, also visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the sacred Islamic town of Moulay Idriss for lunch. Continue to the mountain city of Chefchaouen, known for its blue and white buildings, for overnight. (B)

After breakfast have a half day tour of this mountain city that was founded as a military outpost shortly before the Spanish Reconquista of Granada, and its population grew quickly with Muslim and Jewish immigrants fleeing from Spain. Explore the narrow streets of the Bab Souk district, and the interior gardens of the Kasbah and its ramparts and towers. Overnight in Chefchaouen. (B)

After breakfast depart for Rabat, the administrative capitol of Morocco and also one the five Imperial Cities. On arrival in Rabat, check into your hotel and overnight. (B)

Enjoy a half day tour of Rabat to see the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum, the many gardens in the city and see the royal palace from the outside. Nestled along the Atlantic coastline, Rabat offers a captivating mix of ancient landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of the medina (old town) reveals a treasure trove of architectural wonders, including the majestic Hassan Tower and the opulent Royal Palace. The picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas transports you to a bygone era with its narrow streets, blue-painted walls, and stunning ocean views. The rest of the day is free to continue exploring. Overnight in Rabat. (B)

After breakfast depart for Casablanca, the commercial capital of Morocco. On arrival in Casablanca we will have a half day tour of Casablanca to see the Hassan II Mosque from the outside, Mohamed V Square, the United Nations Place, the central market, the Habbous sector and the residential area of Anfa before strolling along the Ain Diab corniche, dotted with swimming pools and restaurants. The rest of the day is free. Overnight in Casablanca. (B)

Transfer to the Casablanca airport for your departure.

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