Morocco is a spellbinding land which draws upon its many influences yet has a distinct culture all of its own. The diversity of its landscapes is one of its major attractions: desert wilderness gives way to green valleys full of orange groves, Imperial cities pepper the plains and breezy beaches fringe the coast. Hospitable people, mouthwatering food and a glorious climate are the icing on the cake.
Day 1: Casablanca, Rabat
Arrive at Casablanca and transfer to your hotel in Rabat, where you'll have the rest of the day to explore Morocco's capital. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your guide.
Day 2: Rabat
This morning after breakfast, visit the city of Rabat. You'll see the Royal Palace, the ancient ruins of Chellah, the Oudaya Kasbah, and the imposing 12th-century red sandstone Hassan Tower. Visit the Museum of Ornaments before getting lunch in a local Restaurant, then spend the afternoon at leisure. [B/L]
Day 3: Rabat, Volubilis, Fez
This morning after breakfast, explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for an extraordinary insight into ancient Morocco. You'll discover a variety of opulent residences, important monuments and olive mills nestled among the remains of the city's fortified walls. Notable attractions include the well-preserved triumphal arch of Caracalla and a captivating array of mosaics and vibrant tiles depicting Roman mythology. In the afternoon, you'll travel to the imperial city of Fez. On arrival, you'll settle into your hotel. This evening, enjoy a special dinner hosted by a local family, allowing you to immerse yourself in Moroccan culture and traditions.* [B/D]
*Dinner at a local's home in Fez may be rescheduled for another day, depending on your host's availability.
Day 4: Fez
Start the day with a city tour of Fez. Visit the many hidden treasures of the medina that only a Moroccan guide knows about. Fès was the capital of Morocco for over 400 years and is home to the University of Al Karaouine. It is particularly famous for its tanneries and the Fès el Bali medina. A short visit to the surrounding leather stores will give you the best view of the tanneries. The Attarine Medersa, Moulay Idriss mausoleum, fountains and Nejjarine museum. You can also buy authentic Moroccan carpets. Finally, admire the exterior of the royal palace and stroll through the medina's famous Jewish quarter, where you'll have the opportunity to walk through one of Morocco's few remaining Jewish cemeteries. [B]
Day 5: Fez, Meknes, Casablanca
Today, discover the fortified city of Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the monumental horseshoe-shaped Bab Mansour Gate, with its priceless mosaics, sumptuous tiles and inscriptions. Then lunch in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, in a vineyard with beautifully tended gardens and traditional fountains. Enjoy a tasting of white and red wines. The road then takes you to Casablanca, which inspired the classic 1942 film. [B/L]
Day 6: Casablanca, Marrakech
After breakfast, sightseeing tour includes the exterior of the Hassan II Mosque* and the magnificent Corniche waterfront. Continue through Casablanca's residential neighborhoods to the city center to visit Place Mohammed V, the Habous district and Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral. Later, you will leave Casablanca for Marrakech. Arrival and check-in at the hotel, free time. [B]
*The Hassan II Mosque is subject to unexpected closures for local religious observances. Details will be provided locally by your Tour Manager.
Day 7: Marrakech
After breakfast, morning city tour. Visit the Saadian tombs, dating from the 16th century. You'll also visit the Koutoubia minaret and the magnificent Bahia Palace. Finally, the tour ends with a stroll through the medina before arriving at Djemaa el Fna square. The afternoon is at leisure, or you can take part in an optional activity. [B]
Option: Cooking class: Join a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Moroccan tagines and salads.
Option: Horse carriage: Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Djemaa el Fna square and the lively streets of Marrakech at night.
Day 8: Marrakech
Today, explore the city at your leisure or join one of our optional tours. In the evening, enjoy a typical Moroccan dinner with a show. [B/D]
Option: Hot-air balloon flight*. Get up before dawn to take part in today's optional hot-air balloon excursion, which will allow you to witness the sunrise over Marrakech. Drift over the magnificent landscape, before returning to earth to enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast
Option: Tour to Essaouira*, whose medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an excellent example of a North African fortified town. Walk along the city walls, just north of Place Moulay Hassan, where local artists sell their paintings. Continue to the Skala of the City, a fortification built along the cliffs that defended the city against sea attacks. Explore the medina's many souks, including the spice and jewelry souks. Visit a jewelry store, renowned for its quality and design.
*The Marrakech sunrise hot-air balloon excursion with breakfast and the Essaouira day trip run concurrently. Passengers may choose to take part in only one of these excursions.
Day 9: Marrakech, USA
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
[B] = Breakfast | [B/L] = Breakfast & Lunch | [B/D] = Breakfast & Dinner
