A cultural vacation in Northern Morocco sounds wonderful! Northern Morocco is rich in history, architecture, and traditional arts. Wander through the ancient medinas of cities like Tangier, Tetouan and Chefchaouen. That are filled with historic architecture, bustling souks (markets), and local artisans. Northern Moroccan cuisine is unique and flavorful. Try local dishes like couscous, tagine, and pastilla, and visit local markets to sample fresh fruits, nuts, and spices. These are just a few of the cultural experiences you can enjoy in Northern Morocco. Each city and town have their own unique cultural offerings, so be sure to immerse yourself in the local culture wherever you go.
Day 1: Casablanca, Rabat
After arrival formalities in Casablanca, meet our representative who will drive you to your hotel in Rabat, where you'll have the rest of the day to rest and relax. Late afternoon, meet your Tour Manager for an orientation chat followed by a light dinner. [D]
Day 2: Rabat, Asilah, Tangier
This morning, start your visit of Rabat, Morocco’s capital at the Kasbah des Oudaya, the Musée National des Ornements des Oudaya and the Tour Hassan. After free time for lunch, drive to Tangier, stopping en route at Asilah to visit this fortified town on the Atlantic coast, whose history dates back to 1500 BCE. Stroll through the narrow streets of the medina and admire the Raissouni Palace. Then continue to Tangier for overnight. [B/L]
Day 3: Tangier (Caves of Hercules, Borj dar el Baroud)
Start the day with a drive to Cape Spartel, at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, followed by a visit to the Hercules Caves. Return to Tangier for a city tour and continue to Borj dar el Baroud and the American Legation in Tangier, a five-story mansion in the medina and the only American National Historic Landmark outside the USA. Discover the atmosphere of the Grand Soco, Tangier's largest market, and the legendary Kasbah. [B]
Day 4: Tangier, Tetouan, M'Diq
Depart Tangier for the Mediterranean town of M'Diq. On the road, we'll stop in the multicultural city of Tetouan, nestled in the foothills of the Rif mountains. Stroll through the Spanish-influenced medina, with its Jewish, Andalusian and Berber quarters. Visit the Ethnographic Museum and the Royal School of Crafts, which offers comprehensive training in the field of handicrafts. Here, master craftsmen teach children techniques that are passed onto the next generation, preserving ancient arts and practices. Then, enjoy a tasting of local products before continuing to M'Diq in time for lunch at leisure. Later, you'll settle into your room with time to relax. Dinner and overnight at the hotel. [B/L/D]
Day 5: M'Diq, Chefchaouen, Fes
Depart M'Diq and head south to Fez. On the way, stop in Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif mountains of Morocco. The town, known as "The Blue Pearl", is painted in various shades of blue, a custom that dates back to the 15th century, when an influx of Jews fleeing the Spanish Inquisition settled in Chefchaouen. They brought with them the tradition of painting buildings blue to reflect the sky and remind them of God. Then on to Fez, one of Morocco's four imperial cities, for dinner and overnight. [B/D]
Day 6: Fes
Your exploration of Fez starts at the Borj Sud, which offers panoramic views of the city. Enter through Bab Boujloud, or "Blue Gate'', and visit the Medina of Fez el Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After visiting the Al Attarine madrasa, stop off at a tanning workshop to see how leather is cut and dyed using traditional techniques. Visit the famous Karaouine mosque and university, the oldest university in the world still in operation, the mausoleum of Moulay Idriss, as well as the fountains and museum of Nejjarine. You'll then have the opportunity to shop for authentic Moroccan carpets. This evening, you'll join a local family for dinner. [B/D]
Day 7: Fes, Bin El Ouidane
Start the day with a long drive through the Moroccan Middle Atlas towards Bin El Ouidane. You'll take picturesque roads and pass cedar and oak forests. Stop for lunch in Beni Mellal, located in the heart of Morocco. This evening, on arrival in Bin El Ouidane, a guided tour of the town. You'll then check into your hotel for dinner and overnight. [B/L/D]
Day 8: Bin El Ouidane, Ouzoud Falls, Marrakech
Today, you’ll admire the natural beauty of Morocco on the scenic drive to Ouzoud, passing the olive groves of the Tadla plains and rolling foothills. Stop off at a Berber family home for mint tea and an authentic cultural exchange. Next, u, 330 feet high and surrounded by thousands of olive trees. Free time for lunch. Later, you'll drive to Marrakech and check into your hotel. [B/L]
Day 9: Marrakech
Discover historical Marrakech starting with the Majorelle Garden. Then visit the Koutoubia, a 12th-century mosque and minaret, Continue to the Dar el Bacha Palace and Museum, built by Pasha Thami el Glaoui in the early 1900s, discover exhibits on Moroccan culture and admire the palace's zellige mosaics. Next, stroll through the colorful souks to the Secret Garden, dating from the Saadian dynasty sand visit an argan oil store. End the morning with a stroll in the medina to watch artisans ply their trade before arriving at Djemaa el Fna Square, a dazzling spectacle of acrobats, storytellers and snake charmers. This evening, head to the medina to attend a cooking class in an authentic Riad. Learn how to successfully prepare traditional Moroccan tagines and salads. [B/D]
Day 10: Marrakech (Camel ride)
After breakfast, discover the tranquility of La Palmeraie, a palm tree oasis outside of Marrakech, by riding in Berber style through the valley of lush palm groves on the back of a dromedary, a member of the camel family. The afternoon is free before dinner. Tonight, say goodbye to your Tour Manager and to Morocco. [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
Day 11: Marrakech, USA
Depending on your flight schedule you may have some time for last shopping or just relaxing. AT the appointed time our representative will pick you up and drive you to the airport to board your flight back home. [B]
[B] = Breakfast | [B/L] = Breakfast & Lunch | [B/D] = Breakfast & Dinner
