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MOROCCO
MOROCCO
9 days trip from the 14th of September till the 22d of September 2022.
Price from #2200, including airfare and all the tours.
DAY 1, 14th of September, Wednesday - Depart for Morocco
DAY 2, 15th of September, Thursday - Arrive in Casablanca & Transfer to Rabat
Arrive in Casablanca and transfer to your hotel in Rabat where you have the rest of the day at leisure to explore the capital city of Morocco or relax for your upcoming adventure. This evening at your hotel, enjoy an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager and fellow travelers at approximately 6 PM followed by a Welcome Dinner.
Overnight: Rabat
Meals: Dinner
DAY 3, 16 th of September, Friday - Rabat Sightseeing, Travel to Fez
This morning, enjoy a city tour of Rabat. View the Royal Palace and the ancient ruins of Chellah, the Oudaya Kasbah, and the Hassan Tower. En route to Fez, stop and visit the ancient ruins of the Roman city of Volubilis where you will get a chance to see the wonderfully preserved original mosaics, Roman Road, and city layout. Take a short bus tour of the imperial city of Fez conducted by your Tour Manager on the way to the hotel
Overnight: Fez
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, 17th pf September, Saturday - Full Day in Fez
Spend a full day at leisure to bravely wander the old medina yourself or choose to take the guided optional tour where you will visit the many hidden treasures of the medina that only a Moroccan guide can know. Fez served as the capital of Morocco for more than 400 years and is home to the University of Al Karaouine, the oldest operating university in the world. It is particularly famous for its tanneries and the Fes el Bali Medina. A short visit to the surrounding leather shops gives you the best view of the tanneries. View the Attarine Medersa, Moulay Idriss mausoleum, and visit the Nejjarine Fountains and Museum. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the ancient city of Fez from a hill overlooking the medina. Opportunities for shopping for authentic Moroccan carpets. Finally, view the exterior of the Royal Palace and walk through the famed Jewish quarter of the medina where you will get a chance to walk through one of the few remaining Jewish cemeteries in Morocco. Though the city has endured periods of hardship, it has emerged more vibrant than ever, boasting its own distinctive culture, art, and even cuisine
Optional: Full Day Fez (AM)
Join a day-long tour devoted to Fez, the oldest of the imperial cities, which is best known for its spiritual and educational contribution to the Moroccan culture. Your tour includes visits to the medieval Fez el Bali Medina (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Al Attarine Madrasa, Nejjarine Fountains and Museum, and the exteriors of the Al Karaouine mosque and Moulay Idriss mausoleum. A short visit to the surrounding leather shops will provide the best view of the famous tanneries. A visit to a carpet shop will provide a firsthand look at the local textiles. After a light lunch is provided at a beautiful riad within the medina. You will also have the chance to explore the famous souks, where craftsmen still practice their trades the traditional way. In the afternoon, visit Fes Jdid, the modern district of Fez, where the Royal Palace and Jewish Quarter are located.
Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
Overnight: Fez
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, 18th of September Sunday - Travel to Marrakesh
Depart the hotel early morning and drive to Marrakesh via highway. Kindly note that this will be the longest coach ride of your tour. Included will be sufficient rest stops for your comfort and a break for lunch on your own. Late afternoon arrival at your hotel in Marrakesh. The balance of the day is at leisure
Overnight: Marrakesh
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, 19th of September, Monday - Full Day in Marrakesh
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the city on your own or join the optional morning tour of Marrakesh. Begin at the 16th century Saadian Tombs, where Saadian royalty found their final resting place. Continue to the Koutoubia Minaret and the beautiful Bahia Palace. You will also have the opportunity to shop for authentic Moroccan argan oil, reputedly rich in nutrients and antioxidants beneficial to skin and hair, before strolling through the bustling Medina to Djemaa el Fna Square, the lively center of the city. Then, perhaps join the optional camel ride. Experience the tranquility of the Palmeraie, a palm oasis outside of Marrakesh, as you ride in Berber style through the valley of lush palm groves on a dromedary, a member of the camel family
Optional: Marrakesh City Tour (AM)
Half Day Marrakesh City Tour
Enjoy a morning tour of the city. Visit the Saadian Tombs, dating back to the 16th-century, where Saadian royalty found their final resting place. Your tour also includes the Koutoubia Minaret and the beautiful Bahia Palace. Finally, end the tour by walking through the medina, getting a chance to admire all of the different artisans performing their craft before arriving at the Djemaa el Fna Square.
Departs at 8:30 AM. Approximate tour duration is 3.5 hours.
Optional: Camel Ride (PM)
Experience the tranquility of the Palmeraie, a palm oasis outside of Marrakesh, as you ride in Berber style through the valley of lush palm groves on a dromedary, a member of the camel family. These desert animals have been used by Moroccans for centuries as a way to get across vast stretches of arid areas. Afterwards, savor a traditional Moroccan snack of honey pancakes and a hot cup of mint tea. Finally, choose to have a henna tattoo from a skilled artist. Note this tour cannot operate in extreme weather conditions.
Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.
Overnight: Marrakesh
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7, 20 th of September , Tuesday - Travel to Casablanca & City Tour
After breakfast, travel to Casablanca and transfer to your hotel. Later this afternoon, tour Casablanca. Your half day sightseeing tour includes the exterior of the Hassan II Mosque*; the largest Mosque in Morocco and the beautiful Corniche seaside. Take a moment to catch your breath at the end of your Moroccan adventure to admire the serenity of the Atlantic Ocean. Continue on a short drive through the residential areas of Casablanca to the city center to visit the Mohamed V Square, the Habous quarter and the Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral. Tonight, say goodbye to Morocco and your fellow travelers at a Farewell Reception
*Hassan II Mosque is subject to unexpected closures for local religious observances. Details will be provided locally by your Tour Manager.
Overnight: Casablanca
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8, 21st of September Wednesday -our group will stay the whole day in Casablanca,
Late evening departure to the Airport
DAY 9, 22d of September- Departure to the USA
We will try to go to the downtown of Frankfurt on the way home.
FLIGHTS AND HOTELS INFORMATION:
14th of September- Departure from USA
Denver to Montreal , Flight by United #8658 , operated by Air Canada , Leaves Denver at 10:35 am arrives to Montreal at 4:19 pm, flight time 3 hours 44 min. Layover time 2 Hours and 56 min.
Flight from Montreal, Canada to Casablanca, Morroko. Flight by United, operated by Air Canada # 8647 Leaves at 7:15 pm, arrives to Casablanca at 7:15 am Flight time 7 hours Total duration 13 hours and 40 min.
Transfer from Casablanca to Rabat ( about 2 hours)
15th of September Rabat Hotel Belere in Rabat
16th and 17th of September, Hotel Barcelo Fez Medina, in Fez
18th and 19th of September, Hotel Novotel Marrakech Hivernage, Marrakesh
20th of September Novotel Casablanca City Center, Casablanca
22d of September -Departure to USA Casablanca to Denver
Flight # 1331 by Lufthansa Departs from Casablanca at 1:40 am , Arrives to Frankfurt at 6:05 am. Flight time 3 hours 25 min. Layover time 7 hours 20 min
Flight by Lufthansa # 446 from Frankfurt to Denver. Departs Sepember the 22d at 1:25 pm, arrives to Denver at 3:45 pm on the 22d of September.
Some information about things to see during the tour.
RABAT
As one of Morocco's Imperial Cities, Rabat is one of the best places to visit while traveling up or down the Atlantic Coast. Smaller in size and less famous than the Imperial Cities of Marrakesh and Fes, Rabat's calmer atmosphere can also be a welcome break from the tourist hustle of other cities.
The Bou Regreg River runs along the city's western rim, separating it from its sister city of Salé, which is worth exploring while here. Other major things to do while in town include visiting both the Chellah excavation site and the Oudaias Kasbah.
Rabat's Kasbah district is one of the city's top sightseeing draws.
Inside the 11th-century fortress walls is a small neighborhood of winding lanes rimmed by Andalusian-style houses. This is a prime area for a meandering stroll, with plenty of photo opportunities within the narrow blue-and-white lanes.
At the Kasbah's southern end, you'll find the tranquil Andalusian Gardens, while at the district's northern tip is a platform offering panoramic views over both the Atlantic Ocean to the west and Salé to the north.
The most impressive gateway into the Kasbah is the 12th-century Bab Oudaia in the southern wall. From Bab Oudaia, the main road of Rue el Jamma leads to the Kasbah Mosque, which is the oldest mosque in Rabat.
Hassan Tower
Built by the Almohads, the unfinished Hassan Tower (Le Tour Hassan) was the work of ruler Yacoub al-Mansour and would have been the minaret for his grand vision of a massive mosque on this site that was planned to be one of the largest in the world.Upon his death in 1150, construction was abandoned, and this 45-meter-high tower is all that remains of his original ambitious plan.Intricately carved motifs and designs cover the tower's facade, pointing to the sumptuousness of what al-Mansour had in mind.The Hassan Tower, and the neighboring Mausoleum of Mohammed V both sit inside the manicured gardens of Jardin Tour Hassan.
Mausoleum of Mohamed V
The glittering Mausoleum of King Mohammed V was built on the very place where, upon his return from exile in Madagascar, he gathered thousands of Moroccans together to thank God for giving independence to their country.As well as the tomb of Mohammed V, his son King Hassan II is also buried here.The opulent tomb chamber is a showcase of Moroccan traditional design, resplendently decorated, with zellige tilework covering the walls around the grand marble tomb.Non-Muslims cannot enter the adjoining mosque but are able to view the mausoleum's tomb chamber from a terrace above, as long as they are dressed respectfully (shoulders and knees covered
Explore the Chellah Necropolis
Medina
Rabat's rambling medina area has a distinctly Andalusian style to its buildings, as most of the architecture here dates from the 17th century, when Muslims from Spain's Andalusia region arrived. This makes it very different to the medinas of Fes and Marrakesh.In particular, while strolling here, look out for the Grand Mosque on Rue Souka, built by the Merenids in the 14th century. Nearby is a Merenid-built fountain.The Mellah (Jewish Quarter) is in the medina's southeast corner.
If you're looking for bargains and local craftwork, the two best shopping streets are Souq es Sebbat and Rue Souka.
The Kasbah district sits just off the medina's northeast corner, so it's easy to combine visits to both in one morning or afternoon.
FES
Weird, wild and wonderful, Fes is one of the last remaining medieval cities in the world. With an impressive history that dates back over a thousand years, Fes is filled with bustling souks, crowded cafes, captivating Marinid architecture, extraordinary mosques, and authentic madrasas (Islamic schools).
With so much to see and do in Fes, it’s no surprise this north-eastern city is lovingly referred to as Morocco’s cultural capital. Over 90,000 people live in the fortified Fes el-Bali alone, and strolling the chaotic pedestrian streets of the medina is like stepping back in time – don’t miss it.
Royal Palace of Fez
Built in the 1960s, the Dar el Makhzen – or Royal Palace – is one of Fes’s most striking landmarks with its colorful mosaicked architecture, landscaped gardens, and golden doors adorned with enormous handcrafted brass knockers.
As a tourist, you unfortunately cannot explore the grounds of the palace, but you can view it from one of the seven impressive gates, characterized by remarkable Moroccan tiles and carved cedarwood. Despite the lack of access, the Royal Palace of Fez remains one of Morocco’s most visited historical attractions.
Inside the grounds, there’s a 14th-century madrassa for Koranic studies, various mosques, and a museum that’s home to a Carthaginian tomb and necropolis. A plethora of ancient Moroccan artifacts – from Rabat carpets and fine silk to handcrafted pottery and historic manuscripts – lie hidden behind the impressive façade.
Fes el-Bali
Located in the oldest walled part of the city, the Fes el-Bali is made up of over 9,000 labyrinthine narrow alleyways – so narrow that they aren’t accessible to cars. In fact, the Fes el-Bali is the world’s largest car-free urban area on Earth.
Dating back to the Idrisid Dynasty, where it was the region capital between 789 and 808 AD, the medina is the perfect place to get lost in. With its thousands of nooks, crannies, and snaking passageways, you can easily do it without even trying.Wander off into the alleys and browse the jam-packed shops and stalls, mosques, and madrasas, leather tanneries, and stalls selling everything from steaming Moroccan tea and fragrant dates and spices to souvenirs. Fes el-Bali is the best-preserved medina in the Arab world, and the ideal spot to soak up the authentic atmosphere of Morocco’s lovable mayhem.
One of Fes’ three working tanneries, the Chaouwara Tanneries is the largest leather workshop in the city. Built in the 11th-century, it’s a constant hive of activity in the already-bustling medina.Visitors can have a look at the countless round stone vessels filled with dye and liquids used to soften the leather hides and learn about the ancient leather-making process that’s been used in Fes for centuries.The best time to visit the Chaouwara Tanneries is in the morning when the pits are covered in colorful dye. The best vantage points are from the elevated terraces of the nearby leather shops. It’s the perfect place to pick up a variety of leather products, such as sandals and handbags, at affordable prices.
The Bou Inania Medersa is one of Fes’ most architecturally beautiful theological colleges. Built by the Merinid Sultan Bou Inan in the 1350s, it’s one of the only still functioning religious buildings in Fes that’s open to non-Muslims.
The Kairaouine Mosque is Morocco’s second-largest and one of Africa’s largest mosques. With a green triangular-shaped roof and two historic minarets (one of which is the oldest Islamic monument in Fes), it’s one of the most iconic landmarks in the Fes el-Bali medina.Built in 859 by a female refugee from Tunisia, the original building has been expanded several times and can now cater for up to 20,000 people in prayer. The complex includes fountains, courtyards, and a library that’s one of the oldest in the world – open only to students though.
The Kairaouine Mosque is also debatably one of the oldest universities in the world, second only to Al-Azhar in Egypt. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, they can admire the mosque’s courtyard from the gates or from the rooftop of the Medersa el Attarin.12 Best Things to Do in Fes, Morocco.
The Aben Danan Synagogue, also known as the Ibn Danan Synagogue, is a mid-17th-century Jewish synagogue. It was built by Mimoun Ben Sidan, a wealthy trader from the town of Ait Ishaq, to serve the 1,600 Jewish families who were relocated to Fes from Spain. Once one of just a few synagogues in Fes, this simple synagogue (renovated in the 19th-century) is one of the oldest and most important synagogues in North Africa. It contains one of the last complete sets of Moroccan synagogue furnishings, including the tevah (the reader’s canopy platform) and the two wooden-carved Arks for the Torah.The synagogue is beautiful with its white and green herringbone tiles, turquoise pillars, embroidered hangings, and glittering chandeliers. Check out Elija’s Chair (used for the circumcision ritual), the original deerskin Torah scrolls, and the mikvah (a ritual bath) in the basement that’s filled by a water source deep underground.
Borj Nord is an ancient fortress in Fes, perched on a hilltop overlooking the medina and its famous Bab Boujeloud. Built in the late 16th-century by Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour as a way of keeping an eye on his people, it’s been operating as an arms museum since 2016.Today, the Borj Nord houses a varied collection of around 5,000 weapons spread across 13 rooms, ranging from swords and guns to muskets and other weaponry. The 12-tonne cannon used in the infamous 16th-century Battle of Three Kings is a major highlight.Inside the grounds, there’s a 14th-century madrassa for Koranic studies, various mosques, and a museum that’s home to a Carthaginian tomb and necropolis. A plethora of ancient Moroccan artifacts – from Rabat carpets and fine silk to handcrafted pottery and historic manuscripts – lie hidden behind the impressive façade.Once you’re tired of admiring the weapons from all eras and different parts of Morocco, climb up to the northern tower and admire one of the best panoramas over the Fes medina. You won’t regret it
MARRAKESH
The Bahia Palace is a late 19th-century palace in Marrakesh, Morocco. The palace was first begun by Si Musa, grand vizier of Alaouite sultan Muhammad ibn Abd al-Rahman, in 1859 and then continued and expanded by his son Si Ba Ahmed ibn Musa, grand vizier of Sultan Moulay Abdelaziz between 1894 and 1900. Today it is a well-known historic monument and tourist attraction in the city. Wikipedia
Jemaa el-Fnaa is a square and market place in Marrakesh's medina quarter. It remains the main square of Marrakesh, used by locals and tourists.
The Saadian Tombs are a historic royal necropolis in Marrakesh, Morocco, located on the south side of the Kasbah Mosque, inside the royal kasbah district of the city. They date to the time of the Saadian dynasty and in particular to the reign of Ahmad al-Mansur, though members of Morocco's monarchy continued to be buried here for a time afterwards. The complex is regarded by many art historians as the high point of Moroccan architecture in the Saadian period due to its luxurious decoration and careful interior design. Today the site is a major tourist attraction in Marrakesh.
Jardin Majorelle-Yves Saint Laurent Mansion
The Majorelle Garden is a two and half acre botanical garden and artist's landscape garden in Marrakech, Morocco. It was created by the French Orientalist artist Jacques Majorelle over almost forty years, starting in 1923, and features a Cubist villa designed by the French architect, Paul Sinoir in the 1930s. The property was the residence of the artist and his wife from 1923 until their divorce in the 1950s. In the 1980s, the property was purchased by the fashion designers, Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé who worked to restore it. Today, the garden and villa complex is open to the public. The villa houses the Berber Museum and has recently opened the Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
CASABLANCA
CasablancaisthemaingatewaytoMorocco, andmanyvisitors'firsttasteofthecountry, asitishometotheprimaryinternationalairport. ThisbustlingcityisMorocco'sbusinesspowerhouseandindustrialcenter, withamodernswaggerthatisunseeninotherpartsofthecountry.
The modern Hassan II Mosque is one of the city's best places to visit, and a tour of the building is worth an overnight stay in town. Architecture fans will also want to spend some time in Casablanca's downtown district, which is home to plenty of preserved Mauresque facades.
On the shoreline, just beyond the northern tip of Casablanca's medina (old city), the Hassan II mosque dominates the entire city. Finished in 1993, it is the second largest mosque in the world, covering two hectares in size with the world's tallest minaret (200 meters high).
The prayer hall can accommodate 25,000 worshippers, while the courtyard (which boasts a retractable roof) can fit another 80,000.Astonishingly intricate decoration covers every centimeter of surface. The location, right on the tip of the rocky bay above the ocean, is thoroughly dramatic.
Non-Muslims can visit the mosque on free guided tours, which are run by the mosque. The tours begin at the mosque's western entrance several times a day.
Place Mohamed V is the central plaza of Casablanca and is home to many of the city's important official buildings, including the main post office, Palace of Justice, Prefecture, French consulate, and the main Bank of Morocco.
The downtown district of Casablanca between Place Mohamed V and Boulevard Mohamed V is brimming with this style of architecture, which blends Art Deco and Art Nouveau with traditional Moroccan design.
In particular, take a stroll down Rue Tahar Sabti and Boulevard Mohamed V to admire some of the best preserved building facades.
Medina
Although Casablanca's medina (old city district) doesn't have the same historic atmosphere as the medinas of Fes and Marrakesh, the maze-like tumble of alleyways is still an interesting area to stroll.
The medina here mostly dates from the early 19th century, with the Sqala (the sea-facing defensive wall) the earliest building works here, dating from the era of Portuguese control over this part of the coast in the 18th century.As the district is a combination of market streets and residential, it's a great place to experience the pulse of Casablanca life.There are also some interesting koubbas (shrines) dedicated to local Muslim holy men in the medina's southern section.Although Casablanca's medina (old city district) doesn't have the same historic atmosphere as the medinas of Fes and Marrakesh, the maze-like tumble of alleyways is still an interesting area to stroll.The medina here mostly dates from the early 19th century, with the Sqala (the sea-facing defensive wall) the earliest building works here, dating from the era of Portuguese control over this part of the coast in the 18th century.
As the district is a combination of market streets and residential, it's a great place to experience the pulse of Casablanca life.There are also some interesting koubbas (shrines) dedicated to local Muslim holy men in the medina's southern section.
Hassan II Mosque at the eastern end of the Corniche
For sea views and fresh sea breezes close to downtown, head to the Hassan II Mosque and stroll the eastern end of Casablanca's Corniche road from here. You can snap dramatic photographs of the mosque jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean from this vantage point as well.
The Corniche road trails west from here, along Casablanca's shore, all the way to the city's beachfront district of Ain Diab.
Much of Ain Diab's shoreline is now home to luxury hotels and restaurants. The public stretch of beach here isn't particularly clean, so the private beach clubs do a roaring trade, with sun worshipers lapping up the rays and splashing in the club swimming pools.
On sunny weekends, Ain Diab's section of the Corniche is a great spot for people watching, with plenty of local families heading here for picnicking and promenading.You can get a tram all the way to Ain Diab from central Casablanca.
Cathedral du Sacre Coeur
This graceful cathedral was built in the 1930s, and its architecture is a harmonious blend of both European and Moroccan styleUnfortunately, it has been left to wither in the past few decades, and is now in need of serious restoration. But even in its current dilapidated state, the structure is still beautiful. Knock on the door, and if you're lucky, the guardian will be on hand and will allow you inside (in exchange for a tip) to see the cathedral's soaring interior.
Another church worth visiting in central Casablanca is the modernist-style Notre Dame de Lourdes (on Boulevard Mohamed Zerktouni), built in the 1950s and lit by a vast stained-glass window.
Casablanca's bustling central market (Marche Central), on Rue Allal Ben Abdallah, is a must for tourists who want to throw themselves into the midst of city life.
Casablanca's Central Market
Right in the city center, the market is where locals come to buy and sell everything from fresh produce to household supplies. It's also home to plenty of cheap restaurants serving up hearty portions of traditional Moroccan dishes.For a more souvenir-oriented market, head to Souq Haboos in Quartier Haboos, south of central Casablanca. This small district was built during the 1930s in Mauresque style. The market here offers plenty of traditional Moroccan handicrafts, from carpets to ceramic tiles.
9 days trip from the 14th of September till the 22d of September 2022.
Price from #2200, including airfare and all the tours.
DAY 1, 14th of September, Wednesday - Depart for Morocco
DAY 2, 15th of September, Thursday - Arrive in Casablanca & Transfer to Rabat
Arrive in Casablanca and transfer to your hotel in Rabat where you have the rest of the day at leisure to explore the capital city of Morocco or relax for your upcoming adventure. This evening at your hotel, enjoy an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager and fellow travelers at approximately 6 PM followed by a Welcome Dinner.
Overnight: Rabat
Meals: Dinner
DAY 3, 16 th of September, Friday - Rabat Sightseeing, Travel to Fez
This morning, enjoy a city tour of Rabat. View the Royal Palace and the ancient ruins of Chellah, the Oudaya Kasbah, and the Hassan Tower. En route to Fez, stop and visit the ancient ruins of the Roman city of Volubilis where you will get a chance to see the wonderfully preserved original mosaics, Roman Road, and city layout. Take a short bus tour of the imperial city of Fez conducted by your Tour Manager on the way to the hotel
Overnight: Fez
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, 17th pf September, Saturday - Full Day in Fez
Spend a full day at leisure to bravely wander the old medina yourself or choose to take the guided optional tour where you will visit the many hidden treasures of the medina that only a Moroccan guide can know. Fez served as the capital of Morocco for more than 400 years and is home to the University of Al Karaouine, the oldest operating university in the world. It is particularly famous for its tanneries and the Fes el Bali Medina. A short visit to the surrounding leather shops gives you the best view of the tanneries. View the Attarine Medersa, Moulay Idriss mausoleum, and visit the Nejjarine Fountains and Museum. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the ancient city of Fez from a hill overlooking the medina. Opportunities for shopping for authentic Moroccan carpets. Finally, view the exterior of the Royal Palace and walk through the famed Jewish quarter of the medina where you will get a chance to walk through one of the few remaining Jewish cemeteries in Morocco. Though the city has endured periods of hardship, it has emerged more vibrant than ever, boasting its own distinctive culture, art, and even cuisine
Optional: Full Day Fez (AM)
Join a day-long tour devoted to Fez, the oldest of the imperial cities, which is best known for its spiritual and educational contribution to the Moroccan culture. Your tour includes visits to the medieval Fez el Bali Medina (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Al Attarine Madrasa, Nejjarine Fountains and Museum, and the exteriors of the Al Karaouine mosque and Moulay Idriss mausoleum. A short visit to the surrounding leather shops will provide the best view of the famous tanneries. A visit to a carpet shop will provide a firsthand look at the local textiles. After a light lunch is provided at a beautiful riad within the medina. You will also have the chance to explore the famous souks, where craftsmen still practice their trades the traditional way. In the afternoon, visit Fes Jdid, the modern district of Fez, where the Royal Palace and Jewish Quarter are located.
Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
Overnight: Fez
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, 18th of September Sunday - Travel to Marrakesh
Depart the hotel early morning and drive to Marrakesh via highway. Kindly note that this will be the longest coach ride of your tour. Included will be sufficient rest stops for your comfort and a break for lunch on your own. Late afternoon arrival at your hotel in Marrakesh. The balance of the day is at leisure
Overnight: Marrakesh
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, 19th of September, Monday - Full Day in Marrakesh
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the city on your own or join the optional morning tour of Marrakesh. Begin at the 16th century Saadian Tombs, where Saadian royalty found their final resting place. Continue to the Koutoubia Minaret and the beautiful Bahia Palace. You will also have the opportunity to shop for authentic Moroccan argan oil, reputedly rich in nutrients and antioxidants beneficial to skin and hair, before strolling through the bustling Medina to Djemaa el Fna Square, the lively center of the city. Then, perhaps join the optional camel ride. Experience the tranquility of the Palmeraie, a palm oasis outside of Marrakesh, as you ride in Berber style through the valley of lush palm groves on a dromedary, a member of the camel family
Optional: Marrakesh City Tour (AM)
Half Day Marrakesh City Tour
Enjoy a morning tour of the city. Visit the Saadian Tombs, dating back to the 16th-century, where Saadian royalty found their final resting place. Your tour also includes the Koutoubia Minaret and the beautiful Bahia Palace. Finally, end the tour by walking through the medina, getting a chance to admire all of the different artisans performing their craft before arriving at the Djemaa el Fna Square.
Departs at 8:30 AM. Approximate tour duration is 3.5 hours.
Optional: Camel Ride (PM)
Experience the tranquility of the Palmeraie, a palm oasis outside of Marrakesh, as you ride in Berber style through the valley of lush palm groves on a dromedary, a member of the camel family. These desert animals have been used by Moroccans for centuries as a way to get across vast stretches of arid areas. Afterwards, savor a traditional Moroccan snack of honey pancakes and a hot cup of mint tea. Finally, choose to have a henna tattoo from a skilled artist. Note this tour cannot operate in extreme weather conditions.
Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.
Overnight: Marrakesh
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7, 20 th of September , Tuesday - Travel to Casablanca & City Tour
After breakfast, travel to Casablanca and transfer to your hotel. Later this afternoon, tour Casablanca. Your half day sightseeing tour includes the exterior of the Hassan II Mosque*; the largest Mosque in Morocco and the beautiful Corniche seaside. Take a moment to catch your breath at the end of your Moroccan adventure to admire the serenity of the Atlantic Ocean. Continue on a short drive through the residential areas of Casablanca to the city center to visit the Mohamed V Square, the Habous quarter and the Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral. Tonight, say goodbye to Morocco and your fellow travelers at a Farewell Reception
*Hassan II Mosque is subject to unexpected closures for local religious observances. Details will be provided locally by your Tour Manager.
Overnight: Casablanca
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8, 21st of September Wednesday -our group will stay the whole day in Casablanca,
Late evening departure to the Airport
DAY 9, 22d of September- Departure to the USA
We will try to go to the downtown of Frankfurt on the way home.
FLIGHTS AND HOTELS INFORMATION:
14th of September- Departure from the USA
Denver to Montreal , Flight by United #8658 , operated by Air Canada, Leaves Denver at 10:35 am arrives to Montreal at 4:19 pm, flight time 3 hours 44 min. Layover time 2 Hours and 56 min.
Flight from Montreal, Canada to Casablanca, Morroko. Flight by United, operated by Air Canada # 8647 Leaves at 7:15 pm, arrives to Casablanca at 7:15 am Flight time 7 hours Total duration 13 hours and 40 min.
Transfer from Casablanca to Rabat ( about 2 hours)
15th of September Rabat Hotel Belere in Rabat
16th and 17th of September, Hotel Barcelo Fez Medina, in Fez
18th and 19th of September, Hotel Novotel Marrakech Hivernage, Marrakesh
20th of September Novotel Casablanca City Center, Casablanca
22d of September -Departure to USA Casablanca to Denver
Flight # 1331 by Lufthansa Departs from Casablanca at 1:40 am, Arrives to Frankfurt at 6:05 am. Flight time 3 hours 25 min. Layover time 7 hours 20 min
Flight by Lufthansa # 446 from Frankfurt to Denver. Departs September 22d at 1:25 pm arrives to Denver at 3:45 pm on the 22d of September.
Some information about things to see during the tour.
RABAT
As one of Morocco's Imperial Cities, Rabat is one of the best places to visit while traveling up or down the Atlantic Coast. Smaller in size and less famous than the Imperial Cities of Marrakesh and Fes, Rabat's calmer atmosphere can also be a welcome break from the tourist hustle of other cities.
The Bou Regreg River runs along the city's western rim, separating it from its sister city of Salé, which is worth exploring while here. Other major things to do while in town include visiting both the Chellah excavation site and the Oudaias Kasbah.
Rabat's Kasbah district is one of the city's top sightseeing draws.
Inside the 11th-century fortress walls is a small neighborhood of winding lanes rimmed by Andalusian-style houses. This is a prime area for a meandering stroll, with plenty of photo opportunities within the narrow blue-and-white lanes.
At the Kasbah's southern end, you'll find the tranquil Andalusian Gardens, while at the district's northern tip is a platform offering panoramic views over both the Atlantic Ocean to the west and Salé to the north.
The most impressive gateway into the Kasbah is the 12th-century Bab Oudaia in the southern wall. From Bab Oudaia, the main road of Rue el Jamma leads to the Kasbah Mosque, which is the oldest mosque in Rabat.
Hassan Tower
Built by the Almohads, the unfinished Hassan Tower (Le Tour Hassan) was the work of ruler Yacoub al-Mansour and would have been the minaret for his grand vision of a massive mosque on this site that was planned to be one of the largest in the world. Upon his death in 1150, construction was abandoned, and this 45-meter-high tower is all that remains of his original ambitious plan.Intricately carved motifs and designs cover the tower's facade, pointing to the sumptuousness of what al-Mansour had in mind.The Hassan Tower, and the neighboring Mausoleum of Mohammed V both sit inside the manicured gardens of Jardin Tour Hassan.
Mausoleum of Mohamed V
The glittering Mausoleum of King Mohammed V was built on the very place where, upon his return from exile in Madagascar, he gathered thousands of Moroccans together to thank God for giving independence to their country.As well as the tomb of Mohammed V, his son King Hassan II is also buried here.The opulent tomb chamber is a showcase of Moroccan traditional design, resplendently decorated, with zellige tilework covering the walls around the grand marble tomb.Non-Muslims cannot enter the adjoining mosque but are able to view the mausoleum's tomb chamber from a terrace above, as long as they are dressed respectfully (shoulders and knees covered
Explore the Chellah Necropolis
Medina
Rabat's rambling medina area has a distinctly Andalusian style to its buildings, as most of the architecture here dates from the 17th century, when Muslims from Spain's Andalusia region arrived. This makes it very different to the medinas of Fes and Marrakesh.In particular, while strolling here, look out for the Grand Mosque on Rue Souka, built by the Merenids in the 14th century. Nearby is a Merenid-built fountain.The Mellah (Jewish Quarter) is in the medina's southeast corner.
If you're looking for bargains and local craftwork, the two best shopping streets are Souq es Sebbat and Rue Souka.
The Kasbah district sits just off the medina's northeast corner, so it's easy to combine visits to both in one morning or afternoon.
FES
Weird, wild and wonderful, Fes is one of the last remaining medieval cities in the world. With an impressive history that dates back over a thousand years, Fes is filled with bustling souks, crowded cafes, captivating Marinid architecture, extraordinary mosques, and authentic madrasas (Islamic schools).
With so much to see and do in Fes, it’s no surprise this north-eastern city is lovingly referred to as Morocco’s cultural capital. Over 90,000 people live in the fortified Fes el-Bali alone, and strolling the chaotic pedestrian streets of the medina is like stepping back in time – don’t miss it.
Royal Palace of Fez
Built in the 1960s, the Dar el Makhzen – or Royal Palace – is one of Fes’s most striking landmarks with its colorful mosaicked architecture, landscaped gardens, and golden doors adorned with enormous handcrafted brass knockers.
As a tourist, you unfortunately cannot explore the grounds of the palace, but you can view it from one of the seven impressive gates, characterized by remarkable Moroccan tiles and carved cedarwood. Despite the lack of access, the Royal Palace of Fez remains one of Morocco’s most visited historical attractions.
Inside the grounds, there’s a 14th-century madrassa for Koranic studies, various mosques, and a museum that’s home to a Carthaginian tomb and necropolis. A plethora of ancient Moroccan artifacts – from Rabat carpets and fine silk to handcrafted pottery and historic manuscripts – lie hidden behind the impressive façade.
Fes el-Bali
Located in the oldest walled part of the city, the Fes el-Bali is made up of over 9,000 labyrinthine narrow alleyways – so narrow that they aren’t accessible to cars. In fact, the Fes el-Bali is the world’s largest car-free urban area on Earth.
Dating back to the Idrisid Dynasty, where it was the region capital between 789 and 808 AD, the medina is the perfect place to get lost in. With its thousands of nooks, crannies, and snaking passageways, you can easily do it without even trying.Wander off into the alleys and browse the jam-packed shops and stalls, mosques, and madrasas, leather tanneries, and stalls selling everything from steaming Moroccan tea and fragrant dates and spices to souvenirs. Fes el-Bali is the best-preserved medina in the Arab world, and the ideal spot to soak up the authentic atmosphere of Morocco’s lovable mayhem.
One of Fes’ three working tanneries, the Chaouwara Tanneries is the largest leather workshop in the city. Built in the 11th-century, it’s a constant hive of activity in the already-bustling medina.Visitors can have a look at the countless round stone vessels filled with dye and liquids used to soften the leather hides and learn about the ancient leather-making process that’s been used in Fes for centuries.The best time to visit the Chaouwara Tanneries is in the morning when the pits are covered in colorful dye. The best vantage points are from the elevated terraces of the nearby leather shops. It’s the perfect place to pick up a variety of leather products, such as sandals and handbags, at affordable prices.
The Bou Inania Medersa is one of Fes’ most architecturally beautiful theological colleges. Built by the Merinid Sultan Bou Inan in the 1350s, it’s one of the only still functioning religious buildings in Fes that’s open to non-Muslims.
The Kairaouine Mosque is Morocco’s second-largest and one of Africa’s largest mosques. With a green triangular-shaped roof and two historic minarets (one of which is the oldest Islamic monument in Fes), it’s one of the most iconic landmarks in the Fes el-Bali medina.Built in 859 by a female refugee from Tunisia, the original building has been expanded several times and can now cater for up to 20,000 people in prayer. The complex includes fountains, courtyards, and a library that’s one of the oldest in the world – open only to students though.
The Kairaouine Mosque is also debatably one of the oldest universities in the world, second only to Al-Azhar in Egypt. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, they can admire the mosque’s courtyard from the gates or from the rooftop of the Medersa el Attarin.12 Best Things to Do in Fes, Morocco.
The Aben Danan Synagogue, also known as the Ibn Danan Synagogue, is a mid-17th-century Jewish synagogue. It was built by Mimoun Ben Sidan, a wealthy trader from the town of Ait Ishaq, to serve the 1,600 Jewish families who were relocated to Fes from Spain. Once one of just a few synagogues in Fes, this simple synagogue (renovated in the 19th-century) is one of the oldest and most important synagogues in North Africa. It contains one of the last complete sets of Moroccan synagogue furnishings, including the tevah (the reader’s canopy platform) and the two wooden-carved Arks for the Torah. The synagogue is beautiful with its white and green herringbone tiles, turquoise pillars, embroidered hangings, and glittering chandeliers. Check out Elija’s Chair (used for the circumcision ritual), the original deerskin Torah scrolls, and the mikvah (a ritual bath) in the basement that’s filled by a water source deep underground.
Borj Nord is an ancient fortress in Fes, perched on a hilltop overlooking the medina and its famous Bab Boujeloud. Built in the late 16th-century by Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour as a way of keeping an eye on his people, it’s been operating as an arms museum since 2016. Today, the Borj Nord houses a varied collection of around 5,000 weapons spread across 13 rooms, ranging from swords and guns to muskets and other weaponry. The 12-tonne cannon used in the infamous 16th-century Battle of Three Kings is a major highlight. Inside the grounds, there’s a 14th-century madrassa for Koranic studies, various mosques, and a museum that’s home to a Carthaginian tomb and necropolis. A plethora of ancient Moroccan artifacts – from Rabat carpets and fine silk to handcrafted pottery and historic manuscripts – lie hidden behind the impressive façade. Once you’re tired of admiring the weapons from all eras and different parts of Morocco, climb up to the northern tower and admire one of the best panoramas over the Fes medina. You won’t regret it
MARRAKESH
The Bahia Palace is a late 19th-century palace in Marrakesh, Morocco. The palace was first begun by Si Musa, grand vizier of Alaouite sultan Muhammad ibn Abd al-Rahman, in 1859 and then continued and expanded by his son Si Ba Ahmed ibn Musa, grand vizier of Sultan Moulay Abdelaziz between 1894 and 1900. Today it is a well-known historic monument and tourist attraction in the city. Wikipedia
Jemaa el-Fnaa is a square and market place in Marrakesh's medina quarter. It remains the main square of Marrakesh, used by locals and tourists.
The Saadian Tombs are a historic royal necropolis in Marrakesh, Morocco, located on the south side of the Kasbah Mosque, inside the royal kasbah district of the city. They date to the time of the Saadian dynasty and in particular to the reign of Ahmad al-Mansur, though members of Morocco's monarchy continued to be buried here for a time afterwards. The complex is regarded by many art historians as the high point of Moroccan architecture in the Saadian period due to its luxurious decoration and careful interior design. Today the site is a major tourist attraction in Marrakesh.
Jardin Majorelle-Yves Saint Laurent Mansion
The Majorelle Garden is a two and half acre botanical garden and artist's landscape garden in Marrakech, Morocco. It was created by the French Orientalist artist Jacques Majorelle over almost forty years, starting in 1923, and features a Cubist villa designed by the French architect, Paul Sinoir in the 1930s. The property was the residence of the artist and his wife from 1923 until their divorce in the 1950s. In the 1980s, the property was purchased by the fashion designers, Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé who worked to restore it. Today, the garden and villa complex is open to the public. The villa houses the Berber Museum and has recently opened the Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
CASABLANCA
Casablanca is the main gateway to Morocco, and many visitors' first taste of the country, as it is home to the primary international airport. ThisbustlingcityisMorocco'sbusinesspowerhouseandindustrialcenter, with a modern swagger, that is unseen in other parts of the country.
The modern Hassan II Mosque is one of the city's best places to visit, and a tour of the building is worth an overnight stay in town. Architecture fans will also want to spend some time in Casablanca's downtown district, which is home to plenty of preserved Mauresque facades.
On the shoreline, just beyond the northern tip of Casablanca's medina (old city), the Hassan II mosque dominates the entire city. Finished in 1993, it is the second largest mosque in the world, covering two hectares in size with the world's tallest minaret (200 meters high).
The prayer hall can accommodate 25,000 worshippers, while the courtyard (which boasts a retractable roof) can fit another 80,000. Astonishingly intricate decoration covers every centimeter of surface. The location, right on the tip of the rocky bay above the ocean, is thoroughly dramatic.
Non-Muslims can visit the mosque on free guided tours, which are run by the mosque. The tours begin at the mosque's western entrance several times a day.
Place Mohamed V is the central plaza of Casablanca and is home to many of the city's important official buildings, including the main post office, Palace of Justice, Prefecture, French consulate, and the main Bank of Morocco.
The downtown district of Casablanca between Place Mohamed V and Boulevard Mohamed V is brimming with this style of architecture, which blends Art Deco and Art Nouveau with traditional Moroccan design.
In particular, take a stroll down Rue Tahar Sabti and Boulevard Mohamed V to admire some of the best preserved building facades.
Medina
Although Casablanca's medina (old city district) doesn't have the same historic atmosphere as the medinas of Fes and Marrakesh, the maze-like tumble of alleyways is still an interesting area to stroll.
The medina here mostly dates from the early 19th century, with the Sqala (the sea-facing defensive wall) the earliest building works here, dating from the era of Portuguese control over this part of the coast in the 18th century. As the district is a combination of market streets and residential, it's a great place to experience the pulse of Casablanca life. There are also some interesting koubbas (shrines) dedicated to local Muslim holy men in the medina's southern section. Although Casablanca's medina (old city district) doesn't have the same historic atmosphere as the medinas of Fes and Marrakesh, the maze-like tumble of alleyways is still an interesting area to stroll. The medina here mostly dates from the early 19th century, with the Sqala (the sea-facing defensive wall) the earliest building works here, dating from the era of Portuguese control over this part of the coast in the 18th century.
As the district is a combination of market streets and residential, it's a great place to experience the pulse of Casablanca life. There are also some interesting koubbas (shrines) dedicated to local Muslim holy men in the medina's southern section.
Hassan II Mosque at the eastern end of the Corniche
For sea views and fresh sea breezes close to downtown, head to the Hassan II Mosque and stroll the eastern end of Casablanca's Corniche road from here. You can snap dramatic photographs of the mosque jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean from this vantage point as well.
The Corniche road trails west from here, along Casablanca's shore, all the way to the city's beachfront district of Ain Diab.
Much of Ain Diab's shoreline is now home to luxury hotels and restaurants. The public stretch of beach here isn't particularly clean, so the private beach clubs do a roaring trade, with sun worshipers lapping up the rays and splashing in the club swimming pools.
On sunny weekends, Ain Diab's section of the Corniche is a great spot for people-watching, with plenty of local families heading here for picnicking and promenading. You can get a tram all the way to Ain Diab from central Casablanca.
Cathedral du Sacre Coeur
This graceful cathedral was built in the 1930s, and its architecture is a harmonious blend of both European and Moroccan style, unfortunately, it has been left to wither in the past few decades, and is now in need of serious restoration. But even in its current dilapidated state, the structure is still beautiful. Knock on the door, and if you're lucky, the guardian will be on hand and will allow you inside (in exchange for a tip) to see the cathedral's soaring interior.
Another church worth visiting in central Casablanca is the modernist-style Notre Dame de Lourdes (on Boulevard Mohamed Zerktouni), built in the 1950s and lit by a vast stained-glass window.
Casablanca's bustling central market (Marche Central), on Rue Allal Ben Abdallah, is a must for tourists who want to throw themselves into the midst of city life.
Casablanca's Central Market
Right in the city center, the market is where locals come to buy and sell everything from fresh produce to household supplies. It's also home to plenty of cheap restaurants serving up hearty portions of traditional Moroccan dishes. For a more souvenir-oriented market, head to Souq Haboos in Quartier Haboos, south of central Casablanca. This small district was built during the 1930s in Mauresque style. The market here offers plenty of traditional Moroccan handicrafts, from carpets to ceramic tiles.
