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Exotic Morocco

Discover Morocco on a Luxury Tailor Made Tour

The Grand Tour of Morocco

Introduction

Salaam Aleikum.  Welcome to the Grand Tour of Morocco where you will learn about the vibrant heart and soul of Morocco.    On this extraordinary journey you will experience the sparkling coastline, soaring mountains, lush valleys, historical monuments and golden desert sands.  With your expert guide, immerse yourself in a colourful exploration of Morocco’s winding medinas and colourful spice stalls, UNESCO World Heritage cities and stunning landscapes.  Immerse in the culture of Morocco’s four largest cities and venture into the majestic Atlas mountains and the golden sands of the Sahara desert.  You will not be disappointed as you uncover the secrets of this beautiful country.

Itinerary

Day 1: Casablanca

Arrival at Casablanca Mohammed V airport, the gateway to the Kingdom of Morocco.  You will be met by our representative and transfer to the hotel.

Day 2: Casablanca 

Today explore the port city of Casablanca where you will visit the stunning Hassan II Mosque, amongst the largest in the world and can house up to 25,000 worshippers.  The mosque’s minaret is the tallest religious structure in the world.  Having employed over 10,000 of the Kingdom’s artists and craftsmen to build, today the Hassan II Mosque is the largest mosque in Morocco with the tallest minaret in the world and a stunning display of Moroccan-Andalusian architecture. Continue with a visit to the Art Deco District, which was built early in the last century and showcases a combination of cultures. Particularly notice the towering French-inspired apartments and office buildings with distinctly Moroccan happenings on the ground level – small hanoots (corner stores), traditional hammams and fresh fruits and flower carts making their way through town. Free afternoon

Day 3: Casablanca – Rabat

This morning drive along the stunning coastline before stopping in the Moroccan capital of Rabat, one of the four Imperial cities.   It is a city full of rich history and culture.  Visit the imposing Hassan Tower, next door is the mausoleum dedicated to Mohamed V, the founder of modern Morocco and the grandfather of the current king.  Discover the hidden gem of the charming Andalusian Gardens and explore the ancients walls of the Medina, the historic fortification dates back to the 12th century.  Lastly, pay a visit to the Kasbah Des Oudaias, one of the most beautiful surviving in the Moorish world built on a bluff overlooking the ocean.

Day 4: Rabat - Tangier

Today continue along the coastline to the cosmopolitan coastal city of Tangier.  A strategic importance to the Mediterranean as a gateway to Africa.  Its interesting mix of North African, Spanish and French cultural influences is unique as it shines with a sense of confidence.  Enjoy a national brew of steaming mint tea at Café Hafa, as you take in the epic views overlooking Gibraltar.

This afternoon undertake a guided walking tour, beginning with a visit to the markets and then onto the Mendoubia Garden, and the famous Kasbah located on the highest point of the Medina which was the former’s Sultan’s Palace.   Visit the Kasbah Museum of Antiquities and Moroccan Art (closed on Tuesday).  The historical landmark Grand Socco and Dar Al Makhzen.

Day 5: Tangier - Tetouan - Tangier

Today venture out of town today to Tetouan, also known as “Small Jerusalem”.  Following their expulsion from Spain at the end of the 15th century, the Sephardi community settled here, establishing a Jewish quarter that was gated and closed off each night.  Delver into this chapter of Morocco’s history as you explore the Jewish quarter and visit the Moorish synagogue.  Experience the local culture firsthand as you walk through the modern town, passing landmarks like the Royal Palace, mosques, palm-line squares, and Spanish-style buildings.

After lunch return to Tangier with a scenic tour of Cap Spartel, Hercules caves and then visit downtown Tangier (Sour Magazine, Spanish district).  Rest of the afternoon free.

Day 6: Tangier - Chefchaouen

This morning head inland to the beautiful Chefchaouen, known as the blue city due to its blue rinsed houses and building.    Set against a wide valley and nestled between two peaks in the stunning Rif Mountains.  Stop for lunch at Akchour Waterfalls, one of Morocco’s hidden gems.  Upon arrival into Chefchaouen, free afternoon to journey through time and appreciate the blue-painted walled medina.  The colour dates back to the 15th century, when exiles from Spain found refuge in the town.  Jewish refugees escaping the Spanish inquisition painted their homes blue to symbolize divinity – a tradition that has endured through the centuries.

Day 7: Chefchaouen

Today discover beneath the blue and what makes this city so alluring, tour of the Medina, touring its winding alleyways, cobbled plazas and unique doorways.  Visit the 18th century kasbah, with its tower, garden and museum.  Stop for a taste of goats cheese, as there is no shortage of goats in this region.   This evening enjoy a meal with a local family.

Day 8: Chefchaouen - Volubilis - Meknes - Fes

For those history buffs today’s journey will be amazing.  Journey to Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to Morocco’s largest and most well-preserved and iconic Roman ruins, with grand arches, basilicas and mosaic floors of former family dwellings.  Continue to Meknes with a stop for lunch at a vineyard. In Meknes, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, marvel at the monumental Bab Mansour gateway, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail plus the Bab Berdieyinne Mosque, where little has changed since its founding in the 11th century.  Continue to Fes, the cultural capital of Morocco.

Day 9: Fes

Today enjoy a guided tour of the city’s monuments including the Palace Gates, formerly the main residence of the sultan, the Royal Palace of Fes (Fes Dar el-Makhzen) is still used by the King of Morocco when he is in the city of Fes. Surrounded by high walls, it spans an area of 195 acres (80 hectares). It is closed to visitors, who can only admire the imposing and ornate main entrance from the outside. Explore Fes el-Bali (Old Fes), the cultural heart of Morocco. Discover the lanes, alleys and souks comprising the labyrinth of the city’s old quarter.  The medina’s Jewish quarter, the medersas (schools), and the legendary tanneries, where ancient techniques are still used to prepare Moroccan leather. Stop by the world’s oldest and longest-operating learning institution, the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 AD. You’ll enjoy lunch at your leisure in the medina and will then continue your visits of the artisans’ quarters.  Your medina visit will continue with an early evening tasting tour, during which you’ll visit three different food souks. Try traditional Moroccan street food, including dried meats, milawi, harsha, briwats, spicy sardines, spicy potato cakes, soups, olives and more. Investigate traditional cooking methods by visiting a furnace where the water for the hammam (communal bath house) is also heated, and a 400-year-old furan (communal oven and bakery).

Day 10: Fes

Morning of Leisure.  This afternoon discover the world of Moroccan pottery and mosaics with local professional artisans.  You will be given a guided tour and under the guidance of the local artisan, you will be able to make your own piece of pottery using traditional techniques.

Day 11: Fes - Midelt

Leave Fes behind and today you will travel towards Ifrane, nicknamed the “Switzerland of Morocco”.   Here you will take a panoramic drive through the Middle and Higher Atlas Mountains, stopping at Azrou, a Berber village in the middle of the largest cedar forest in Morroco, where you may see Barbarian apes.  Afterwards travel through Tizi Ntalghamt pass to Midelt, known as apple country.

Day 12: Midelt - Erfoud

This morning travel to the edge of the Sahara Desert to a small town called Erfoud.  It is known as the “Gate of the Sahara Desert”.  Built by the French in the early 1900’s.  While here, be sure to taste the dates, as the area is dotted with palm trees, the source of the yearly date festival. Also, famously known for films such as “Prince of Persia” & “The Mummy”.   Erfoud is one of the largest oases in Morocco.  You’ll find breathtaking views over the Ziz vally and the expansive desert beyond.  You will explore Erfoud’s quarry, where fossil discoveries reveal this region was once submerged beneath the sea.

This evening enjoy traditional dinner while local musicians entertain you.

Day 13: Erfoud - Erg Chebbi

This morning you will journey into the Sahara, the Erg Chebbi, or known as the “Sea of Dunes.  Enjoy an exciting 4×4 off road drive into the dunes to embark on a short camel trek to your Luxury Camp in the heart of the desert.    Enjoy a warm Moroccan dinner under the stars, followed by a campfire and live tribal music.   Take some time to observe the starlit sky as you relax listening to traditional music.

Day 14: Erg Chebbi

Early morning wake up call to witness the sunrise whilst enjoying breakfast.  Today you will explore the tiny villages around Erg Chebbi dunes such as Hassi Labied, Merzouga and Khamlia.  Visit the stunning gardens of Hassi Labied, near Merzouga see the Dayet Srji Lake see the many flocks of pink flamingos and wildlife.  Meet the locals showing their desert foxes and encounter desert reptiles and mammals.  In Khamlia, you will be welcomed with a cup of tea whilst listening to the spiritual Gnawa music.  Enjoy a picnic lunch under the shadow of a tree on the golden dunes with a Nomad family.  As you get to learn about the traditions and life of a Nomadic.  Afterwards visit the sites of black volcanic rock and return to camp.

Day 15: Erg Chebbi - Ouarzazate

Today you will drive to what was once the stopping point for African traders to the cities of northern Morocco and Europe, Ouarzazate.    This route winds along the southern slopes of the High Atlas Mountains, tracing the Dades Valley and passing through lush fields and groves of palm trees.  Travelling along the renowned Thousand Kasbahs route, you will be captivated by stunning views of century-old kasbashs.  Along the way take a moment to explore a small yet captivating private museum near Tingherir, where the local art, culture and history come to life.

Day 16: Ourazazate

This morning drive to the ancient fortress of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou.  A UNESCO world heritage site located in the foothills of the southern slopes of the High Atlas Mountains.  It is one of the most spectacular preserved sites in the South of Morocco, An extraordinary ensemble of buildings offering a complete panorama of pre Saharan earthen construction techniques.  Also where many masterpieces have been filmed such as “parts of Game of Thrones”, “Lawrence of Arabia”, “Gladiator” and the “Mummy”.

This afternoon unravel the secrets of Ouarzazate, built as a french garrison in the 1920’s, today it is known for its pottery and carpets.  It is here you will see one of the most beautifl kasbahs in all of Morocco, the Glaoui Kasbah of Taourirt.

Day 17: Ouarzazate to Ourika Valley

This morning drive to Ourika Valley for a short hike leading to small Amazaigh (Berber) Village where the way of life has remained intact for hundreds of years, with signs written in the exotic Tifinagh alphabet.  Take a short break from your hike to drink some tea with a local Berber family. You’ll join them in their home with your guide serving as a translator so that you can learn about the traditions and customs of the region firsthand.  Exploring a Berber village is discovering a whole new world, new culture where the Atlas Mountains lifestyle take place and traditions become social rules

Day 18: Ourika Valley

Free day in the amazing Atlas Mountains to further explore the region

Day 19:  Ourika Valley - Marrakech      

Today drive to the Pearl of the South and be warmly welcomed to the Ochre city of Marrakech, also known as the Red city.   This evening enjoy a walking tour of the emblematic Jemaa El-Fna Square to enjoy the single most mythical location in Morocco and an UNESCO Heritage Site.  Enjoy the ultimate souk experience, where you can witness storytellers, magicians, dancers, acrobats, street musicians, food stalls and snake charmers.

Day 20:  Marrakech

Today, begin to unlock the secrets of Marrakech with a visit of the most notable monuments and landmarks: the Koutoubia Minaret (an outside visit only), the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and Dar El Bacha. Your guide will talk you through the history of each site, and you’ll have ample time to ask questions and take photos. After the morning visit sit down for lunch in a rooftop restaurant (not incl.)

Afternoon is free to enjoy and experience a traditional Hammam and massage before dinner.

Day 21:  Marrakech

Today, begin to unlock the secrets of Marrakech with a visit of the most notable monuments and landmarks: the Koutoubia Minaret (an outside visit only), the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and Dar El Bacha. Your guide will talk you through the history of each site, and you’ll have ample time to ask questions and take photos. After the morning visit sit down for lunch in a rooftop restaurant (not incl.)

Later in the afternoon (3pm), enjoy a traditional Tagine cooking class for a flavourful adventure in Moroccan cuisine. Led by an expert chef, you’ll discover the secrets of preparing authentic Tagine dishes and will then eat your slow-cooked creation for dinner!

Day 22:  Marrakech

This morning discover the wonderful Marrakech Gardens, starting with the Menara Gardens and continue to the Jardin Majorelle Gardens, created in the 1920’s by the French painter, Jacques Majorelle and later restored by design legend Yves Saint-Laurent.   Visit Yves Saint Museum.

Late this evening enjoy a sunset sidecar tour of the city. Experience Marrakech from a completely unique point of view: the sidecar of a vintage bike. You’ll make your way through the medina with our guide sharing tidbits about his favourite streets, shops and insider tips. Sometimes you’ll zip along, and at other times it’ll be slower going as you navigate through the narrow streets of the medina.

Day 23:  Marrakech

Free day to explore Marrakech

Day 24: Farewell to Marrakech and Morocco

 Transfer to Marrakech airport for your onward journey.

The Grand Tour of Morocco - Travel Itinerary

Highlights

Hassan II Mosque Casablanca/Cosmpolitan coastal city of Tangier/Blue city of Chefchaouen/UNESCO World Heritage sites of Meknes & Volubilis/Old quarters of Fes/Village of Ait Benhaddou/Jemaa El-Fna Square Marrakech/Jardin Majorelle Gardens Marrakesh/Koutobia Minaret Marrakech/Berber culture Atlas Mountains/4×4 sand dune driving Sahara Desert/Nomadic culture Erg Chebbi/Berber culture Atlas Mountains

Duration

24 Days/23 Nights

Departures

Daily on private basis

TOUR INCLUDES

  • Chauffeur driven air-conditioned 4×4 for Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert.
  • Air conditions SUV for all other transport services.
  • Accommodation on twin sharing basis.
  • Breakfast daily.
  • English speaking local guides for all sightseeing.
  • Entrance fees at monuments & places of visit.
  • Camel Trek in Sahara Desert
  • Bread making in Sahara Desert
  • Dune riding in Sahara Desert
  • Mint tea in Berber Village
  • Lunching with Nomadic family
  • Mosaic workshop
  • Hiking in Atlas mountains

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