DAYS 1 & 2Rabat, Morocco Arrive in Rabat on Day 2. Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the “Pearl of Morocco,” which stands high on the steep southern bank of the Bouragrag River, where its green waters meet the blue Atlantic. The afternoon is at leisure for you to rest from your flight, or to begin exploring this fascinating city on your own. In the evening, meet your fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail and dinner party. Your Travcoa Travel Director will tell you about the intriguing itinerary ahead.
Sofitel Jardin des Roses, Rabat
DAYS 3 – 5Fes, Volubilis & Meknes
Fes is the oldest traditional city in Morocco — and the religious and cultural capital of the country. You’ll visit the old medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where brass makers, storytellers and performers all ply their trade. Being the largest medina in the Maghreb, it is easy to get lost in this endless labyrinth of narrow streets. The old town of Fes, with its palaces, mosques, madrasas, zaouias and fountains, is among the most beautiful centers in Morocco. You’ll see the 9th-century Karaouine Mosque and University, the second most important Islamic University in the world after El Azhar in Cairo, with its medersas (colleges) of Bou Inaninia and Attarine.
On Day 5 you’ll have a full-day excursion that begins with Moulay Idriss, the Holy City, which was founded in the 8th century by Moulay Idriss I, who brought the Islamic religion to Morocco and created the first Arab dynasty. He was the great-grandson of the Prophet Mohamed. You’ll arrive in Meknes for an afternoon tour of the third of the Imperial Cities. Continue to Volubilis, an imposing Roman ruin. The capital of the Roman Province of Mauritania, it was founded in the 3rd century B.C., and became an important outpost of the Roman Empire and the administrative center for Roman Africa.
Sofitel Palais Jamai Hotel, Fes
DAY 6Casablanca This morning, drive to fabled Casablanca. Situated on the Atlantic, Casablanca has one of the largest artificial ports in the world. Casablanca can trace its roots back to a 10th-century B.C. settlement believed to have been erected by Berber fishermen. Your afternoon tour of Casablanca includes Place Mohamed V, a busy shopping street lined by residential blocks dating from the 1930s. Get a true feel for the intrigue that is Casablanca with a visit to the Habbous district with its shaded squares and narrow streets lined with arcades that lead from one souq to another. Stroll around the League of Arab States Park with its palm trees, arcades, pergolas and shady cafés, and view the gateway of the royal palace.
Le Royal Mansour Méridien, Casablanca
DAYS 7 – 9Ouarzazate Take in the beauty and majesty of the impressive Hassan II Mosque. Built for the 60th birthday of former Moroccan King Hassan II, it is the largest religious monument in the world after Mecca. Over 6,000 Moroccan artisans worked for five years on the mosaics, stone and marble floors and columns, sculpted plaster moldings, and carved and painted wood ceilings.
On Day 7 we’ll soar over the high Atlas Mountains on our flight to Ouarzazate, gateway to the Sahara. The city is rich with traditional Kasbah-style architecture. On Day 8 explore the ancient Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, an impressive 11th-century structure and one of the most spectacular sights in Morocco. Enjoy a camel ride on a tour of an oasis and a mint tea tasting under a Berber tent.
Le Berbere Palace Hotel, Ouarzazate
DAYS 10 – 12Marrakech Marrakech, the second of the four Imperial Cities of Morocco, is at the crossroads of Arab, Berber and Sudanese civilizations. One of the world’s most mysterious and fascinating cities, Marrakech has a memorable beauty, with its palm-lined streets and red earth walls surrounding a huge medina of flat-roofed, red houses. View the city gardens of the old medina of Marrakech, and stroll in Djamaa El F’na Square to browse through the many souqs. On our private historical tour, we’ll see the stately 11th-century Koutoubia Minaret. Visit the aristocratic El Bahia Palace. On our final evening, we’ll celebrate with a classic Moroccan feast.
La Mamounia, Marrakech
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Experience the cultural flavors of vibrant Morocco on this incredible journey! Explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis with a private guide, stroll the maze of shops in Marrakech's bustling souqs, and enjoy a camel ride in Ouarzazate, the gateway to the Sahara.
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