Wonders of Morocco: From Souks to the Sahara

Situated on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, Casablanca pulses with a modern energy, yet whispers of its romantic past — immortalized in the classic Humphrey Bogart movie (set here though filmed in Hollywood) — still linger. Met at the airport, you check in to your luxurious hotel and relax. This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner.

While the port city of Casablanca is Morocco’s largest metropolis and its commercial hub, there are connections to the rich local culture close at hand. Visit the expansive Hassan II Mosque; its minaret is the tallest religious structure in the world. Travel to the Moorish city of Rabat, capital of Morocco, to visit the Mohammed V Mausoleum, dedicated to the founder of modern Morocco, grandfather of the current king. View the Hassan Tower and Oudaya Kasbah. Continue to Fez for a special cocktail reception. Tonight, at dinner, meet a female professor who shares her insights on the role of women in modern Morocco.

Explore Fez el-Bali (Old Fez), the cultural heart of Morocco and a renowned center of medieval learning. Stroll the old quarter, with its 9,000 narrow lanes, alleys and souks, on a lively market visit. Watch local craftsmen work with bronze and pottery, and then proceed to the intricately detailed Karaouine. Built in AD 859, it is one of the oldest still-functioning universities in the world. After a stop at Nejjarine Square, visit Fez el-Jadid (New Fez) to visit the Royal Palace, madrasas (Islamic schools) and the Mellah of Fez (Jewish quarter).

Journey overland to explore Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa. With its triumphal arches, basilicas and capitals, the Volubilis skyline brims with iconic examples of Roman architecture. Among its greatest treasures, however, are the mosaic floors of former family dwellings, depicting figures from epic mythology. A winery outside Meknes offers a chef-led experience at an on-site restaurant set among olive groves.

Admire the Kasbah of Tifoultoute, a majestic 17th-century fortress, and continue to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of the region’s most exotic kasbahs, some of which have been featured in famous films, including Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator.

Journey over the High Atlas Mountains, observing everyday life in remote rural towns, to the fascinating “Red City” of Marrakech, where you visit El Amane Association for Women and Children, a community initiative supported by A&K Philanthropy.

Walk the Jardin Majorelle, a picturesque garden created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by design legend Yves Saint Laurent. Stop at the Yves Saint Laurent Museum nearby for an up-close look at some of the famed designer’s creations. This afternoon, relax at your hotel or explore Marrakech at your own pace. Tonight’s special farewell dinner features entertainment by a local Gnaoua band.

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.