Mar 11, 2021 Mar 21, 2021
This 11-day expedition will have you marveling at the diverse landscapes that fill this incredible country. Visit the imperial cities of Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Fez and Meknes, and contemplate the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Desert and both the Atlantic and Mediterranean waters.
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DAY 1 | Overnight Flight
On a captivating adventure through a land of centuries old culture and customs, discover the “Land of Sunset” and “Gateway to Africa” – the place they call Morocco.
DAY 2 | Casablanca, Morocco Tour Begins
Your journey begins in Casablanca. This evening, take in the aromas of coriander, allspice and ginger as you join your fellow travelers for a traditional Moroccan dinner.
Hotel: Barcelo Anfa Casablanca, Casablanca
Culinary: Dinner
DAY 3 | Casablanca – Rabat – Meknes – Fes
Gaze upon the intricate, colorful artistry of ceramic tile and handcarved
stone during a visit to the breathtaking Hassan II Mosque. Then we’re off to Rabat, Morocco’s capital, to visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. The epitome of modern Moroccan design, the mausoleum’s ornate woodwork, marble, and bronze ornamentations make this a tomb truly fit for a king. Then, it’s on to the imperial city of Meknes (UNESCO World Heritage site), home of the ancient door, the Bab El Mansour, and the historic gate, the Bab El Khemis. Arrive at your riad, a traditional Moroccan building (and Arabic for “garden”) just in time for dinner.
Hotel: Palais Sheherazade Spa, Fes
Culinary: Breakfast & Dinner
DAY 4 | Fes
Get ready to discover Fes, one of the holiest cities in the world. Learn about its history as a center of government, philosophy, medicine, and religion. Step back in time on an eye-opening tour featuring the centuries-old Medersa Bou Inania, the Jewish Quarter, city ramparts, and the palace gates. On a walking tour of the 9th century medina, explore the alleyways and stalls of this ancient market. At the famous leather tanneries, watch as craftsmen tan and dye leather among the honeycomb of colorful vats.
Hotel: Palais Sheherazade Spa, Fes
Culinary: Breakfast
DAY 5 |Fes Midelt – Erfoud – Sahara Desert
Cross some of Morocco’s most breathtaking desert landscapes on the way to the Sahara. En route, pause in Midelt to bask in majestic views of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Arrive in Erfoud, the “Door to the Desert,” and make your way by 4×4 jeep to your luxurious tented camp for a magical 2-night stay in the Sahara Desert.
Hotel: Xaluca Luxe Bivoaucs Belle Etoile, Merzouga
Culinary: Breakfast & Dinner
DAY 6 | Sahara Desert Expedition
Rise early to watch the sun illuminate the Sahara in stunning hues of orange, yellow and red. Begin your day by traveling to a desert oasis. Meet a local farmer to discuss the challenges of survival in the desert before traveling to a village to experience traditional North African Gnawa music. Continue on your desert expedition and meet a nomadic community that travels across the desert with the changing seasons. Return to your camp as the sun sets over the dunes. This evening, reflect on the serenity and beauty of the desert under a tapestry of twinkling stars.
Hotel: Xaluca Luxe Bivoaucs Belle Etoile, Merzouga
Culinary: Breakfast & Lunch
DAY 7 | Sahara Desert – Todra Gorge – Boumalne du Dades
Return to the edge of the desert via camel and marvel at the sunrise as it illuminates the sands. In the new light of day, begin the journey to Todra Gorge, one of the most spectacular canyons in the world. Arrive in Morocco’s “Grand Canyon,” Boumalne du Dades, where a golden sun lights up the gorge’s river valleys, palmeries and burnished mudbrick homes.
Hotel: Hotel Xaluca Dades, Boumalne du Dades
Culinary: Breakfast & Dinner
DAY 8 | Boumalne du Dades – Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou -Marrakech
Follow the rugged “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” where turreted fortresses rise up like sandcastles along this ancient trading route. Arrive at the UNESCO site of the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou and discover the earthen buildings, defensive walls, and corner towers that make the ksar a striking feat of Moroccan architecture. Make a stop at a local argan oil cooperative on the drive through the Valley of Roses. Before you reach the exotic city of Marrakech, continue along the Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains, a scenic route through lush oasis valleys, imposing mountains and several Berber villages, before arriving in the ancient city of Marrakech.
Hotel: Es Saadi Hotel, Marrakech
Culinary: Breakfast
DAY 9 |Marrakech
Among the mosques and palaces, souks and riads, visit the ancient El Bahia Palace, whose architecture is a distinct blend of both Islamic and Moroccan styles. See the vibrant Jewish Mellah and the majestic 12th century Koutoubia Mosque. Pass the Royal Palace on a tour of the ancient city wall. Then it’s your choice! Visit the Jardin Majorelle and the Berber Museum, two iconic sites that showcase the beauty and ingenuity of Morocco’s cultural heritage OR explore the Musée Yves Saint Laurent and discover how the colors and textures of Morocco inspired this iconic designer.
Hotel: Es Saadi Hotel, Marrakech
Culinary: Breakfast
DAY 10 | Marrakech
Today, join a local women’s cooperative in an interactive cooking class. Head to le jardin to source your own herbs and vegetables and learn the secret to making the country’s most celebrated dish: the tagine. Tonight, an
unforgettable dining experience awaits you behind the doors of an opulent palace. Over dinner with new friends, toast the end of your Moroccan journey.
Hotel: Es Saadi Hotel, Marrakech
Culinary: Breakfast & Lunch
DAY 11 | Marrakech – Casablanca – Tour Ends
Board your transfer to Casablanca this morning to connect with your flight home.
