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DAY 1, Friday - Depart for Morocco
Depart on your flight to Casablanca, Morocco
DAY 2, Saturday - Transfer to Rabat, Welcome Dinner
Welcome to exotic and enchanting Morocco. Upon arrival in Casablanca, transfer to your hotel in the Imperial capital city of Rabat. Spend the rest of your day at leisure. This evening, join your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for an orientation meeting at approximately 6 PM on the unforgettable discovery of Morocco that awaits you. A Welcome Dinner celebrates your arrival in Morocco. We recommend that you select flights which arrive in Casablanca no later than 3 PM on day 2 of the itinerary or earlier, if possible
Overnight: Rabat
Meals: Welcome Dinner
DAY 3, Sunday - Rabat City Tour
The 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, 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, designed by the French during the colonial period. The rest of the day is on your own for independent activities
Overnight: Rabat
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Monday - Medina of Meknes and Wine Tasting en route to Fez
Today, 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. View 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 in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. At an immaculate vineyard with its beautifully manicured gardens and traditional fountains, linger for a wine tasting of their white and red wines. The drive then takes you to mystical Fez, one of the four imperial cities of Morocco. Leisure time before tonight’s dinner together
Overnight: Fez
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5, Tuesday - Fascinating Fez, Walking Tour in the Medina, Jewish Quarter
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 Moorish-style Bab Bou Jeloud gate that takes you 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, still-functioning 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
Overnight: Fez
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 6, Wednesday - Volubilis en route to Casablanca
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. After lunch, depart for the storied city of Casablanca, inspiration for the classic 1942 film. Dinner tonight is at the hotel
Overnight: Casablanca
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7, Thursday - Lively Casablanca, Hassan II Mosque, Magical Marrakesh
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. After lunch begin the drive overland to enchanting Marrakesh. Upon arrival, the fresh aroma of citrus fruits welcomes you to the resort. Tonight, savor dinner together at the hotel
*Hassan II Mosque is subject to unexpected closures for local religious observances. Details will be provided locally by your Tour Manager.
Overnight: Marrakesh
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8, Friday - Enthralling Marrakesh, Henna & Moroccan Tea Ceremony, Private Discussion Group
The enthralling city of Marrakesh is a celebration of beauty. The 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 at a nearby riad, join a specially arranged Henna ceremony (Hennaya) where artists paint symbolic motifs on your hands or feet. You choose the design! 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. Here, meet a well-known lecturer who enlightens you on how the role of women has changed in Morocco over the years
Overnight: Marrakesh
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 9, Saturday - Majorelle Gardens & Museum, Berber Home, Lalla Takerkoust
Start this morning with an open top horse-drawn carriage ride in an iconic emerald green carriage leisurely takes you along the streets of magical Marrakesh. Visit 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. This afternoon, drive by 4x4 vehicles to the rocky Agafay Desert, an expansive area of natural beauty. You are invited into a Berber home for homemade tea and authentic cultural exchange before continuing on to Lalla Takerkoust. Here, pause for refreshments at a lakeside terrace, while enjoying views of the High Atlas Mountains. Later, journey onwards towards Tahnaout via Guemassa, where you toast the sunset before dinner under the starry skies in a Berber tent. Gnawa musicians entertain with pulsating tunes as you savor a lavish traditional dinner. Afterward, return to Marrakesh for overnight
Overnight: Marrakesh
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 10, Sunday - Depart Morocco
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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