The Essence of Morocco

Upon arrival in Casablanca, after proceeding through immigration customs and collecting your baggage, our representative waiting for you outside of the Arrival Terminal with a sign with your name on it. Then start discovering Morocco's largest city and economic capital, Casablanca, best representation of the modern side of Morocco. Begin the sightseeing Casablanca with an outside visit of Hassan II Mosque. It is the largest mosque in the country and the 7th largest in the world. You then continue to the Ain Diab Corniche for a pleasant stroll along the coast. Your next stop is Mohammed V Square in the city center. The city tour includes also the Habous Quarter, one of the oldest areas in Casablanca. The district was built by the French in the 1930s as an attempted solution to the ongoing housing shortage. It marries the best of traditional Moroccan archltecture with modern facilities and French ideals - even the mosque fronts onto a strip of grassy lawn just like a village church. Then we will leave Casablanca along the coastline to Rabat for overnight. The tour of Casablanca is for early arrivals only.

After breakfast, we visit the political and administrative capital of Morocco. A clean central beach. an intact and evocative Kasbah, and an attractive walled medina that is far less touristy than in other Moroccan cities. Our tour starts from the Mohammed V Mausoleum, the landmark of Rabat. and the Hassan Tower, one of the oldest incomplete mosques of Morocco. The Kasbah of the Udayas, Rabat's historic citadel occupies the site of the original Ribat (fortress monastery) that gave the city its name. This afternoon, we drive along the highway that links the two cities. En route and time allowing, we may stop at Azilah (a small-town from the Berber era) known for its imposing ramparts and fortifications which enclose the old town of white and blue washed houses. Continuing the highway, we soon enter the urban area of Tangier. We penetrate the intricate medina of Tangier to reach our hotel for the next two nights.

Today, meet your guide at 9:00 AM to discover Tangier, an incredibly unique city rich with landmarks. As Morocco's main gateway to Europe, Tangier has long been a haven for artists from around the world. We will begin at the Mendoubia Gardens, a vibrant public park flanked by French colonial—era buildings that is popular among local families and young couples on weekends. At the center of the gardens, surrounded by historic cannons. stands an engraved stone monument displaying the landmark speech that Sultan Mohammed V delivered in 1947 to demand Moroccan independence. Next, we will visit the historic Marshan district to see its ancient Roman tombs before admiring the Moorish interiors of St. Andrew's Church. This magnificent church stands as a beautiful tribute to interfaith harmony; inside, you can admire the Lord's Prayer written in exquisite Arabic calligraphy alongside distinct Moorish architectural touches, We will then cross through the bustling Fish Market, where the daily catch is sold at auction, and pay a visit to the historic Jewish Cemetery overlocking the seafront. From there, we head to the Tangier American Legation, famed as the first American public property acquired outside the United States. Afterward, we will descend into the lively Petit Socco square to enjoy a traditional mint tea at Café Tingis, a historic favorite of the Beat Generation writers. Later, we take a scenic 15-minute drive outside the city to Cap Spartel, the dramatic point where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. Nearby, we will visit the legendary Caves of Hercules, where the mythical hero reportedly rested after retrieving the golden apples. The cave features a fascinating natura opening shaped like the map of the African continent that looks straight out onto the Atlantic. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing on the beach before we drive back to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast. we drive to Chefchaouen (also called Chaouen). The roads wind around the valley edges as we travel south toward the Rif Mountains. En route, we explore Tetouan, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former capital of the Spanish Protectorate. famous for its Andalusian soul and stunning Moorish architecture. Settled near ancient Roman ruins, Tetouan was destroyed in the 15th century by the Portuguese and reborn following the fall of Granada in 1492. More than just its architecture, Tetouan's cuisine, music, jewelry, and embroidery speak deeply of its Spanish- Moroccan origin. If time permits, we Wi" visit the Ethnographical Museum to admire these cultural treasures. We then continue south via the direct highway into the heart of the Rif Mountains, arriving at the world-famous azure town of Chefchaouen. Upon arrival, we explore what is quite likely the most charming medina in Morocco. We will walk through Bab el Ansar to the famed Ras el Maa waterfall, where a short path leads us past Rif Sebbanine (the traditional laundry district). From there, we can view the iconic Spanish Mosque perched on the hill overlooking the valley. Chefchaouen is all about losing ourselves in its blue-washed streets, but the 15th-century Kasbah in the main square is well worth a detour. Overnight at the hotel.

This morning, drive to the ancient Roman city Of Volubilis to explore its stunning ruins. Impressive stone arches and columns some tumbled down, others still standing tall against the vivid blue sky—invite us to take a step back in time. Only about half of the 42-hectare UNESCO site has been excavated. The best-known monuments are located in the northern part of the site, farthest from the southern entrance: the Capitol, dedicated to the Triad of Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva, which dates back to 218 AD; the Basilica; and the nearby 1,300-square-meter Forum. Here, the floors of what were once grand family dwellings are still covered with decorative tile mosaics depicting mythological figures, including Orpheus charming animals with his lyre and Hercules performing his legendary twelve labors. The fact that so many of these tiles remain perfectly in place, retaining their vibrant colors after centuries of exposure to the elements, is truly astonishing. Next, travel to the imperia' City of Meknes, the former home of the Moroccan sultanate. Its winding medina streets and grand architecture beautifully justify its status as an Imperial City. Remnants of three sets of fortifications, ingeniously incorporated into the modern city road network, emphasize its past importance and glory. At the heart of what remains of the original imperial city sits the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, flanked by the almighty royal granary and the magnificent Bab el-Mansour gate. Continue to Fez for your overnight stay.

Today, meet your guide at 9:00 AM, to take a step back in time into the Middle Ages with a visit to one of the most imperial, timeless, and untouched cities in the world: the cultural heart of Morocco, Fez El Bali (Old Fez), Enjoy exploring some of the 9,000 narrow lanes and alleys in the souks (open-air markets) that make up the labyrinth of the city's old quarter, originally founded in the 8th century, The Imperial capital was a renowned medieval learning center, and at its heart remains the Al-Qarawiyyin, one of the oldest still-functioning universities in the world. Nearby is the Attarine Madrasa (Koranic college), a jewel of Hispano-Moorish architecture built in the 14th century. Next, you'll visit Nejjarine Square with its beautiful fountain—a mosaic of elaborate tilework—and the fondouk (Caravanserai) that has been converted into a Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts. In the 13th century, the Marinid Dynasty built Fez El Jdid (New Fez) with its Royal Palace, mosques, madrasas, souks, and city walls. Most notably, Fez El Jdid is home to the Mellah (Jewish quarter), which provides an interesting insight into Jewish architecture. The wrought-iron decorated windows and splendid carved wood balconies of the old mansions are particularly outstanding. One of the most interesting sites in Fez is the leather souk, home to the oldest leather tannery in the world, which dates back nine centuries. In addition to the tannery, you will visit a clay workshop, the artisan quarters, and the souks. The medieval Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to your hotel for Overnight.

This morning, depart Fez at 8:30 AM to pass through many amazing cities and villages. The first of these is Ifrane, also called "Morocco's Switzerland." a charming ski town sprinkled with European-style chalets. Continue to Midelt, which serves as the commercial center of a large agricultural hinterland. It is also one of Morocco's principal cities for the mining industry. You will have some free time in Midelt before continuing your journey through the dramatic Ziz Gorges to arrive in Erfoud. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, a 4x4 vehicle will be waiting to take you toward the magnificent dunes of Erg Chebbi—some of the largest and most striking sand formations in the Sahara Desert. En route, we will visit traditional Berber villages to interact closely with this amazing culture. We'll stop at a camel milk cooperative before continuing to Rissani to explore one of the finest traditional markets in the Sahara, famous for its unique trading sections for donkeys, sheep, goats, and cows. Next, we head to the village Of El Khamlia (known as the Gnawa or African village) to enjoy a traditional lunch (included) and immerse ourselves in their spiritual music. From there, we journey into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Arriving at the edge of the dunes, you will mount a camel and venture deep into the golden sands to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets of your lifetime. Watch the sky come to life with a fiery glow as the rays playfully change the colors of the endless desert landscape. Enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars, followed by an overnight stay in a desert camp.

At 9:00 AM, embark on a 4x4 to meet your driver and head toward Tinghir and the Todra Gorges—the highest and narrowest gorges in Morocco. Situated on the east side Of the High Atlas Mountains, the Todra Gorges are globally recognized as some of the most spectacular canyons in the world, Here, both the Todra and Dades Rivers have carved out cliff-sided canyons along their 25-mile stretch through the mountains, leaving behind a dramatic series of rock formations. The name "Todra" specifically refers to the final 600 meters (just under 2,000 feet) of the canyons The gorge highly for its hiklng paths and features a well-maintained dirt road that visitors share with local mules and donkeys. After lunch your own, we will drive through the Dades Valley, famous for its majestic sandcastles and the incredible rock formations known as the "Monkey Fingers." This scenic route through the Dades Valley is also known as "the Road of One Thousand Kasbahs." Here, you will catch spectacular views of a vast valley dotted with small oases and hundreds Of ancient fortifications. While the sand-colored walls of the Kasbahs may begin to look similar, each holds a unique historical treasure and offers endless opportunities for remarkable photos. Continue to Skoura, a quiet village surrounded by thousands of acres of lush palm groves. This paradise of palm and olive trees is peppered with ancient Kasbahs, the most iconic of which is Kasbah Amridil. Originally built in the 17th century, it stands out as one of Morocco's most famous living museums. Finally, we will drive to Ouarzazate for dinner and your overnight stay.

After breakfast, we visit Taourirt Kasbah, one of the most beautiful Kasbahs in Morocco. After Morocco gained independence from France in 1956, the movie business flourished in Ouarzazate. The visit to the Film Studios is optional. Then, you might recognize the sand-colored houses of this impressive ksar (fortified city) when you see the spectacular fortress of Ait Ben Haddou—an iconic landscape immortalized in films such as Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, Alexander, and Game of Thrones, among others. Ait Ben Haddou is a magnificent earthen stronghold inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can spend time in its maze of winding streets until reaching a fortified granary at the top, where you'll get an amazing view of the valley. We leave Ait Ben Haddou, crossing the High Atlas Mountains Via the magnificent Tizi n'Tichka pass to Marrakech, our home for the next three nights.

After breakfast, enjoy a city tour of Marrakesh, the "Red City" a majestic place filled with palaces, gardens, rnarkets, and mosques. You will first stand by the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, an architectural landmark dating back to the late 12th century with its famed 253 ft minaret. You will contlnue to the stunning 19th-century Bahia Palace to discover the intricate work done by local artisans to decorate this splendid home, built by a powerful Grand Vizier. The building features 150 rooms, countless courtyards, interior gardens, and a veritable labyrinth of corridors and stables. From there, we will explore the lively artisan quarters and colorful Souks to interact with the daily life of the Marrakech people. Continue to the Dar El Bacha Museum of Confluences, built in 1910 as the residence of Thami El Glaoui, who was named Pasha of Marrakech in 1912. It is one of the medina's finest examples of riad architecture, dripping with Moroccan Zellige (colorful geometric tilework), intricate white plasterwork, and heavy carved cedar-wood lintels. Before sunset, we will stroll through the world-famous square, Jemaa El Fna, Located at the entrance of the Medina, this bustling square is surrounded by restaurants, stand, and public buildings, providing everyday commercial activities and an array of entertainment. It is a magical circus where fortune tellers, henna artists, fire eaters, snake charmers, storytellers, musicians (including authentic Gnaoua performers), and acrobats gather in a cacophonic feast. After the tour, head back to your hotel to freshen up before transferring to a local restaurant for dinner. Overnight at your hotel.

Day at leisure or wander on your own. You may want to sign in for one of the following optional activities: • Retreat at a modern Berber-style villa and Cooking Class - Traditional Hammam and Massage - Cooking Class and Dinner

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight.