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Morocco - 10 Days

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10 days, Morocco to Morocco
Departures
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Introduction

From Saharan dunes to the peaks of the High Atlas, Morocco could have been tailor-made for travellers. Lyrical landscapes carpet this slice of North Africa like the richly coloured and patterned rugs you’ll lust after in local cooperatives. The mountains – not just the famous High Atlas but also the Rif and suntanned ranges leading to Saharan oases – offer simple, breathtaking pleasures.

Morocco's cities are some of the most exciting on the continent. Join the centuries-old trail of nomads and traders to their ancient hearts, from the winding medina maze of Fez to the carnivalesque street-theatre of the Djemaa el-Fna in Marrakesh.

Morocco is a storied country, that has, over the centuries, woven its ties to Sub-Saharan Africa, Europe and the wider Middle East into whole cloth. Its mixed Arab and Berber population forms a strong national identity, but an increasingly youthful one, taking the best of its traditions and weaving the pattern anew – from the countryside to the city, from the call to prayer from the mosque to the beat of local hip hop. Morocco has a hundred faces and sounds, all ready to welcome the traveller looking for spice and adventure.

Itinerary

Depart on your flight to Casablanca, Morocco.

Upon arrival in Casablanca, you will be greeted and transferred to your deluxe hotel in the Imperial capital city of Rabat.  Spend rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast at hotel, our exploration of Rabat begins at the exterior of the impressive Dar al-Makhzen Palace, the residence of Morocco’s King, and view where independence was declared in 1956. Continue to the ancient necropolis of Chellah, now abandoned and overgrown by fruit trees and wild flowers. From the viewing platform, see the expansive ruins of this once-great Roman City.
On to the magnificent marble Mohammed V Mausoleum, built in traditional Moroccan style, dedicated to the founder of modern Morocco. Observe the minaret of the Great Mosque and the towering 12th-century red sandstone Hassan Tower, Rabat’s most famous landmark. Afterward, we visit Kasbah des Oudaias in the old part of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its commanding views of the river and ocean from its clifftop perch. Time to stroll along the lanes of the perfumed Andalusian gardens,

After breakfast at hotel, today, as we journey inland to discover the walled city of Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that rose to glory under the rule of the Sultan Moulay Ismail, we’ll see the monumental horseshoe-shape Bab Mansour gate. This beautifully patterned gate with its priceless mosaics, lavish tiles and inscriptions is considered one of the most beautiful gates in North Africa. After an introduction to the historic medina of Meknes, it’s on to lunch at Chateau Roslane, in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains.
At this immaculate vineyard with its beautifully manicured gardens and traditional fountains, we linger for a wine tasting of their white and red wines. Our drive then takes us to mystical Fez, one of the four imperial cities of Morocco.

A fascinating day lies ahead in medieval Fez, cultural heart of the country. Founded in the 8th century by Moulay Idriss I, this imperial city was the capital of Morocco for more than 400 years and an important center of learning. Enter the blue Moorishstyle
Bab Bou Jeloud gate that takes us into the 1200-year-old bustling streets of the Old Quarter (Fez el-Bali) leading to a maze of narrow winding lanes and countless souks selling fragrant spices and endless arrays of local crafts. Stop to see the workers in the famous tanneries. On to view the intricately detailed exterior of 9th-century Karaouine, one of the oldest, stillfunctioning universities in the world and Nejjarine Square with its elaborate mosaic tile fountain. After lunch at an atmospheric restaurant in a restored riad, you can choose to spend an afternoon at leisure exploring the medina or relax in
your hotel. Or, visit the historic Jewish Quarter, now being restored. Nearby, there is an old Jewish cemetery, ancient synagogue, and museum. An evening at leisure follows this day of discovery.

Breakfast at hotel. This morning the dramatic well-preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique glimpse into ancient Morocco. View a series of mansions, monuments and olive mills surrounded by remnants of the city's defense walls. The most notable highlights include the beautifully preserved Triumphal Arch of Caracalla, a series of exquisite mosaics and colorful tiles depicting Roman mythology. On to lunch at a popular French restaurant. We then depart for the storied city
of Casablanca, inspiration for the classic 1942 film.

Breakfast at hotel.  This morning, a get acquainted tour of the lively seaside city of Casablanca. Stand in awe at the splendid Hassan II Mosque*, with its soaring minaret that shines a beam towards Mecca every evening. This architectural masterpiece is larger than St Peter’s Basilica in Rome and capable of holding more than 80,000 worshippers. No expense was spared for this landmark building. You’ll see its hand carved ceilings, gleaming marble floors, and Venetian stained glass windows. Pass Mohammed V
Square, home to some of the city’s most striking architecture before a scenic drive along the Corniche with its palm-lined boulevards, one of the city’s most fashionable districts. Enjoy lunch at Rick’s Café, inspired by the legend of Bogart and Bergman before beginning the drive overland to enchanting Marrakesh. Upon arrival, the fresh aroma of citrus fruits welcomes us to our resort.
*Due to winter months earlier prayer time schedule, afternoon interior visits are not possible

Breakfast at hotel.  The enthralling city of Marrakesh is a celebration of beauty. Our day begins at the 16th century Saadian Tombs, where Saadian royalty found their final resting place. View the towering Koutoubia Minaret, a landmark of the city as well as the opulent 19th century Bahia Palace, where sultans once lived. Enter the sprawling medina, with its endless maze of souks selling everything from carpets to spices, jewelry and more. Leave this labyrinth of lanes to frenetic Jemaa el-Fna Square with its non-stop activity -- storytellers, snake charmers, and musicians playing their rhythmic music. After a relaxing lunch on your own account, a Moroccan Tea Ceremony follows, rooted in ritual. Watch as hot water is poured over fresh spearmint, dried tea leaves, and sugar into a silver pot and into ornate and fragile glasses. Later, an open top horse-drawn sunset carriage ride in
an iconic carriage leisurely takes us along the streets of magical Marrakesh. We end the day at the picturesque Majorelle Gardens with its electric blue villa that Yves Saint Laurent gifted to Marrakesh, now a mirage of over 300 plant species from five continents and the Majorelle Museum with its displays of traditional arts.

After breakfast at hotel, this morning we drive by 4x4 vehicles to serene Lalla Takerkoust Lake with views to the High Atlas Mountains. We pause for refreshments at a lakeside terrace before driving along roads dotted with Berber villages as we reach the rocky Agafay Desert.
We are invited into a Berber home for homemade tea and authentic cultural exchange before reaching our retreat in a secluded desert hideaway overlooking the vast Moroccan wilderness, framed by olive trees and organic gardens. There’s a tempting small and charming stone pool, colorful hammocks, and camel rides in this magical place, offering you the opportunity to commune with nature. Toast the sunset before dinner under the starry skies in a Berber tent. Gnawa musicians entertain us with pulsating tunes as we savor a lavish traditional dinner. Afterward, we return to Marrakesh for overnight.

Breakfast at hotel.


Later, according to your flight time, transfer to the airport for your flight back home.