The Magic of Morocco

A unique fusion of African culture and European traits, Morocco is often considered a gateway country; a means through which Europeans can ease themselves into Africa and Africans can enjoy a taste of Europe without leaving the continent. For North Americans, it's a wonderful way to get a taste of both worlds!

ITINERARY IN BRIEF

Day 1: Arrive Casablanca
Welcome to Morocco! Considered the "Jewel of North Africa," it is so rich with heritage that it has attracted seekers of the exotic over the centuries. You will be met upon arrival at Casablanca airport, transfer to your hotel.

Day 2: Casablanca - Fez
After a sightseeing tour of Casablanca, depart for the capital, Rabat, to see the mausoleum of king Mohammed V and the Royal Palace. Now on to one of the kingdom's imperial cities, Meknes; dating back to the 11th century, its surroundings remain unchanged for centuries. Make a rare highlight visit inside the mosque and see Bab el-Mansour gateway before driving to Fez. Overnight in Fez. Meal Plan: breakfast

Day 3: Fez
A day packed with fantastic sights and smells as you tour this carefully preserved mediaeval university city, which had its golden age in the 14th century during the reign of the Merinides dynasty. Visit the medina of Fez and walk through its old streets. See one of the oldest universities in the world, taking time to haggle in the bazaar and see Moroccan pottery being handmade. Meal Plan: breakfast

Day 4: Fez - Erfoud
Leave the bustle of Fez behind and head for the spectacular snow-capped Atlas Mountains. Pass through Ifrane before reaching the cedar forests of Azrou. Travel through the magnificent Ziz gorges, past palm fringed towns to Errachidia, built by the French at this important crossroad. Your final destination is Erfoud, on the edge of the Sahara Desert. Overnight in Erfoud. Meal Plan: breakfast

Day 5: Erfoud - Ouarzazate
This morning we have the possible option of riding camels to the dunes outside town to see the glorious daybreak in the Sahara. Later, drive to the oasis of Tinehir, noted for its silver and jewellery workshops. Take a detour to explore the Todra Gorge — the Grand Canyon of the Sahara. At Boumalne Dades, we will see the dry rugged Dades Valley dotted with oases of figs, olives, date palms and with castellated mud houses hugging the slopes. The day concludes at Ouarzazate, the film capital of Morocco, with everything from Lawrence of Arabia to Star Wars being filmed here. Meal Plan: breakfast

Day 6: Ouarzazate - Marrakesh
Get your cameras ready as you stop at the village of Aït Benhaddou, which boasts one of Morocco's finest kasbahs. Continue via the spectacular Tizi n'Tichka Pass across the Atlas Mountains, before descending past Berber mountain villages, dense woods and green fields to the ochre-coloured city of Marrakesh. Meal Plan: breakfast

Day 7: Marrakesh
Sightseeing includes an exploration of the fascinating medina (Old Town), the koutoubia mosque whose minaret dominates the Marrakesh skyline, and a visit to the secluded tombs of the Saadi dynasty, hidden behind high walls. After some time to watch the dancers, storytellers and acrobats at the bustling Djemaa El-Fna square, take a scenic drive south of Marrakesh to the beautiful Ourika Valley. Visit a Moroccan family home to witness a traditional mint tea preparation ceremony before returning to your hotel. The evening is free to experience magical Djemaa El-Fna square with its multitude of sights, smells and sounds. Meal Plan: breakfast

Day 8: Marrakesh - Casablanca
Heading towards the Atlantic coast, we say goodbye to the snake charmers of Marrakesh and drive to Casablanca. Casablanca offers a unique insight into modern Morocco. In many ways, it represents the hopes and dreams of the country. Spend your last afternoon at leisure, enjoying this vibrant city at your own pace. Meal Plan: breakfast

Day 9: Return Home

INCLUSIONS

• 8 nights on bed and breakfast basis at a good selection of 3-star hotels
• All breakfasts
• Transportation in a private vehicle from Casablanca until return to Marrakech
• All transfers
• Transfer in first-class train from Marrakech to Casablanca
• Guided visits of Rabat, Fes and Marrakech
• Monuments & entrance fees
• All Taxes

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