Visit the Hassan II Mosque, the largest religious monument
in the world after Mecca. This remarkable site has a glass floor
suspended directly over the sea. Continue to Rabat and explore
the Mohammed V Mausoleum with your private guide. Travel
beyond the city walls to the remains of the ancient city of Sala. This
evening's welcome dinner hosted by Abercrombie & Kent provides
the perfect setting to become better acquainted with your fellow
travellers.
La Tour Hassan B L D
Days 1-2: USA or Canada/Casablanca, Morocco
Today drive to Fez, stopping in Meknes, one of the Imperial cities
of Morocco where the monuments reflect the splendor of this
17th-century city. Continue to the ruined Roman city of Volubilis
with its beautifully preserved mosaics from the 2nd and 3rd
centuries.
Sofitel Fes Palais Jama? B L
Day 3: Casablanca/Rabat
Fez is timeless and one of the most unspoiled cities in the world.
Once the capital of Morocco, it remains one of the main religious,
artistic and intellectual centers of the country. Explore some of
the countless narrow lanes and alleys that make up the labyrinth
of the city's old quarter. Visit the historic Nejjarine Fountain and
madrassas (Quranic schools) that are dotted throughout the city.
This evening, enjoy a cocktail reception at Riad Alkatara and meet
a guest speaker to hear his insights on Andalusian architecture and
history.
Sofitel Fes Palais Jama? B L D
Day 4: Rabat/Meknes/Volubilis/Fez
Travel to Erfoud, a small town on the edge of the Sahara desert.
Along the way stop in Bhalil, a charming village of whitewashed
houses. Behind the picturesque village are several troglodyte
dwellings where people still inhabit caves. Here you have the unique opportunity to visit a troglodyte family.
The latter part of
the journey is filled with stunning scenic views of endless palm
plantations, Berber villages and the spectacular Atlas Mountains.
Kasbah Hotel Chergui B L D
Day 5: Fez
Today, you are transferred by four-wheel drive vehicles to Rissani
for a tour before continuing towards the sand dunes. Set off
on camelback to begin your explorations of the desert. Enjoy a
romantic sunset over the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. A traditional
dinner is served this evening by the campfire of your tented camp.
Desert Tented Camp B L D
Day 6: Fez/Erfoud
Drive to Ouarzazate, once a stopping point for African traders
en route to the cities of Morocco and Europe. Stop at a private
museum showcasing the local culture and history.
Berber Palace B L
Day 7: Erfoud/Desert Camp
This morning, visit the Taourirt Kasbah, where the Glaoui family
controlled the major caravan trading routes. Afterward, travel to
one of the most spectacular Atlas villages, Ait Benhaddou. Some
of the world's most decorative kasbahs are found here, with houses
seeming to defy gravity as they cling to the steep slopes. Cross the
Atlas Mountains to Marrakech.
Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial B L
Day 8: Desert Camp/Ouarzazate
Set out to discover the secrets of Marrakech, the most famous city
in Morocco. Most of the city's architectural attractions are inside
the Medina, the old walled section of the town. The Koutoubia
minaret is the most perfect Islamic religious structure in North
Africa. This famous landmark dominates the local skyline and
can easily be spotted from all of Marrakech.
Visit the Bahia Palace,
a masterpiece of domestic architecture and perfect example of
the privileged life in the 19th century. Explore Djem?a el Fna, the
main square of Marrakech, famous for its orange juice stalls and
snake charmers.
This evening, experience traditional Moroccan
cuisine during your wonderful farewell dinner which includes
entertainment by a local Gnaoua band.
Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial B L D
Day 9: Ouarzazate/Marrakech
Ride in a horse-drawn carriage to the gardens of Marrakech,
starting with the Menara gardens built in the 12th century. Streams
and fish-filled pools also flow through the gardens. Proceed to
discover the city of Marrakech and the Majerolle gardens, created
by French painter Jacques Majorelle in 1924.
The remainder of your day is at leisure to relax or continue your exploration of this fascinating and lively city.
You may choose to add an optional visit to a shelter that provides assistance to displaced children in Marrakech. There you may donate books, clothes, school supplies or other needed items.
Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial B
Day 10: Marrakech
Transfer to the airport for your international flight.
B
Day 11: Marrakech
Day 12: Marrakech/USA or Canada