Protected: Morocco – 16 Days in Depth, Includes Air – SOLD OUT!

We depart the US for an overnight flight to Casablanca!

Upon arrival in Casablanca we will meet our private guide and minibus, with us the entire week. After transferring to our hotel and checking in, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this fabled city and its bazaars. We’ll visit the Hassan ll Mosque and walk along the corniche in the evening.

After breakfast we will drive the short distance to magical – and blue! – Chefchaouen, a town hugged by the RIF mountains, where you’ll experience a warm embrace and feel like you’re reaching out to grab the stars. Spend a treasured night here exploring, contemplating, and being entranced by the day-to-day bustle, the smell of incense, cedar wood, and mountain air. This quaint village offers unique crafts like wool garments, blankets, and woven rugs. Take the stairs higher into the mountain, and discover parts of Chaouen only the locals see.

After breakfast, today we arrive in the Imperial city of Fez. The rest of the day will be ours to explore on our own or as a group.

Soon after breakfast, we set out for a full day of sightseeing with a “born” in Fez private guide to explore the Medina (a UNESCO world heritage site.) Keep an eye out for well over 50 public water fountains, some simple basins and others with intricate arabesque and geometrical patterned tiling, such as the 18th century Nejjarine fountain. They are usually situated beside a Mosque or hammam and were endowed by wealthy residents.
We will visit Funduqs, Souq des Teinturiers (dyers’ quarter), and Medersa Bou Inania (a restored theological college), with its elaborate tiles and carvings and massive brass entrance doors. Next, the tanneries on the banks of the Oued Fez, followed by La Madrassa Attarine, the University of Al Karaouine (considered to be the oldest university in the world),and Bab Bou Jeloud, an ornate city gate and the entrance to the old city of Fez. Around mid-day we will stop for an authentic Moroccan lunch. Enjoy your evening with some shopping. Or perhaps we’ll find a rooftop to relax and breathe in the smells of herbs and spices.

Today we discover Midelt, a charming dusty ‘one-road-town’ nestled in the heart of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Experience the stunning natural landscapes, traditional Berber architecture, and delicious local cuisine. Come and explore this hidden gem of Morocco and immerse yourself in its warmth and hospitality. The drive towards Midelt, has breathtaking views of the High Atlas, and is considered to be the epicenter for apple trees. Be prepared to perhaps experience your first mirage. During the heat of summer, the heat can be so intense that in the distance the Middle Atlas can appear in a haze, as a mirage.

We wake up to another delightful breakfast and set out to IFRANE, the town the French built in the 1930’s. They wanted to create an Alps like town setting amidst the cedar forests and they succeeded. We will approach this town which feels more like Switzerland than Morocco, with its many imported trees such as: lilac, chestnut, linden, and flower filled squares, cobble-stoned sidewalks, and cooler climate. Of course, the stone lion at the entrance to the town has many stories of lore connected to it; however, the truth lies somewhere in between. Everything from an Italian soldier who was imprisoned nearby and carved it for his release, or it was carved to commemorate the last wild Atlas lion, which was sadly shot near here in the 1920’s. You can take an educated guess; he is so regal.

Now we will make our way to the monkey and cedar forests of Azrou. The souq of Azrou is especially unique, as all the local villagers come down from the mountains to sell and trade their goods. It’s not for tourist trappings but a regular day of shopping for them. The Azrou Barbary Macaques are elusive, yet lamentably they do gather at certain places to be fed, which is not good for them, and causes them many health issues. So we would suggest enjoying them from a distance, always being mindful of our impact on all wildlife and the environment.

ER-RACHIDIA was established as a military base for the French Foreign Legion. So many images come to mind with their crisp white caps and green and red epaulettes. There is still a large Moroccan military garrison base here, keeping an eye on the border with Algeria.

Now for the desert of ERG CHEBBI, MERZOUGA.
Who can approach the desert without the mind wandering to the most exotic thoughts? The peace and serenity of the trek towards the camp cannot be duplicated. Merzouga itself is a small town, approximately 50 km from the Algerian border. We will be greeted by our friends who will prepare a lovely greeting and take us to our luxury carpeted Berber tent with private facilities. Settle in for the most unforgettable night of our lives, a sunset over the dunes and a lavish candlelit dinner of traditional Amazigh Tajine. As the evening progresses, we will be entertained by a group of musicians around a bonfire under a sky of stars.

***INTERESTING FACT***
The Moroccan drivers help each other in ways we wouldn’t be accustomed to in the west. They work together by signals and hand gestures to pass slow traffic and have developed a code system to advise oncoming traffic about police stops. It’s amazing to watch, works beautifully and gives a sense of camaraderie on the road. Relieves the stress and is very cool!!!

Welcome to Dades Valley, an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Morocco. This stunning valley is nestled between the High Atlas Mountains and the Jebel Saghro range, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. This part of our journey takes us through perhaps the most quintessential Morocco – this long route takes us from Er-Rachidia to Ouarzazate, which is well traveled and beautiful. We will see so many landmarks and breathtaking vistas along the way. We will pass the Valley of Roses, the Route of Kasbah’s, such as Kasbah Telouet (once owned by the infamous autocrat Pasha Glaoui) and cross the famous Tizi-N-Tichka pass at an elevation of 2,260 meters (7,415 feet).

We will have 2 unforgettable nights snug into the High Atlas Mountain range. This will be unlike anything you have ever experienced, the views, the air, the people. The valley is known for its dramatic rock formations, lush palm groves, and traditional Berber villages. It’s the perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts, with numerous trails winding through the valley and its surrounding peaks. We can also discover the local culture and hospitality of the Berber people, with their unique architecture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Come and experience the beauty and serenity of Dades Valley, a true gem of Morocco.

This is also when we’ll be treated to a traditional lunch prepared by an Amazigh family from Dades Valley. Lunch will include a lovely 1-2 hour walk among the fig and almond trees along the Oued River.

Welcome to Taroudant, a hidden gem in southern Morocco! Known as “Little Marrakech,” Taroudant offers a unique blend of traditional Moroccan culture and modern amenities. Surrounded by a red-earth wall that dates back to the 16th century, the city is home to vibrant souks, stunning riads, and beautiful gardens. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by trying traditional Berber cuisine, exploring the ancient medina, or visiting the nearby Argan oil cooperatives. From here, we’ll be able to see the snow-capped mountains of Mt. Toubkal (4167m), the highest mountain in North Africa. For outdoor enthusiasts, Taroudant offers hiking and biking trails in the nearby Atlas Mountains, as well as opportunities for horseback riding and golfing. Don’t miss the chance to experience the warmth and beauty of Taroudant, one of Morocco’s best-kept secrets!

Essaouira is a relaxed and bohemian town on the west coast of Morocco, known for its windy coastal weather and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore the walled Medina, stroll along the beach, try out kitesurfing or horseback riding, and enjoy the local cuisine and art galleries. The town’s laid-back atmosphere and funky restaurants make it a great place to unwind and get lost in the souks.

TIP: Fresh fish and seafood is brought in every day, 7 days a week, by local fishermen at the Essaouira Port. This is a huge attraction in Morocco, as guests can go directly to the port to select whatever fresh catch they’d like, to have it brought to a local restaurant and prepared on a grill.

Welcome to Imlil, a picturesque village nestled in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. This charming village offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and traditional Berber architecture. Imlil is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, with numerous trails winding through the mountains and valleys. We can also experience the local Berber culture, cuisine, and hospitality by visiting the village’s markets, guesthouses, and cafes. Don’t miss the chance to explore this hidden gem of Morocco and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and warmth of Imlil.

We will need 3 days to take it all in. The list is long but our first stop should be DJEMAA-EL-FNA square. In 2001, the square was named a Unesco World Heritage Site in a special classification, “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity”. The reason for this particular moniker is because the Moroccans were very concerned about its survivability. This square is known for its storytellers, musicians and performers and they were afraid to lose that. As such, an advocate was found for this cultural treasure.
We will visit all the landmarks that include the following: Koutoubia Mosque, Mouassine Fountain, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs and Le Jardin Majorelle (Majorelle Garden) with its Moorish and Art Deco influences, filled with bamboo groves and cacti gardens. We can add a good scrubbing at a Hammam or perhaps a cooking class. Just let us know.

We transfer to the airport for our flight home, arriving the same day. Included: breakfast.