Magical Morocco Itinerary

 

An 8 day Itinerary to explore Morocco

 

Day One    Arrive in Morocco

 

Option One

If flying from Australia you will arrive into Casablanca Airport.  Your driver will be waiting for you once you complete customs and immigration formalities.  Transfer directly from the Airport to the capital of Morocco, Rabat.  The journey is approx one hour - along a relatively new freeway.

 

Option Two

If arriving from Spain we suggest the fast ferry from Tarifa (Spain) to Tangier.  Arriving mid morning, you will be met by your driver and taken on a city tour of Tangier to learn more of the history of this fascinating city.  You have the choice of staying overnight in Tangier or driving straight to Rabat.

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For those travelling directly to Rabat there is time to relax before dinner and see some of the sights of this engaging city.    Rabat is the capital of the Kingdom of Morocco ruled by King Mohammed VI whose palace is located in Rabat.   Here you will also have your first experience of a Medina – the name usually given to the original part of an Arab town.

Rabat has a selection of very good restaurants either in the Modern city, the Medina or overlooking the sea.  We can organize dinner at one of these restaurants or offer suggestions if you prefer to be independent.

 

Accommodation:       Based on your chosen standard of accommodation.

 

Day Two

 

After an early breakfast, commence the day with a visit to the Mausoleum of the late King Hassan II before commencing the drive to the Imperial city of Meknes.  Meknes was the capital of Morocco during the rule of the revered tyrant Moulay Ismail.  He ruled Morocco for 55 years and much evidence remains of his long rule.  Near Meknes there are the remarkably well preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis with its vibrant mosaics and spectacular setting. This is one of the best Roman ruins you will see anywhere.  You arrive in the ancient city of Fes in late afternoon.   

Accommodation: Based on your chosen standard of accommodation.
B

 

 

Day Three

          

Day in Fes with your guide -  the new town with its museums, the Royal Palace and then the wonderful and UNESCO world heritage Medina with the sights, sounds and aromas to excite the senses – perhaps a stop for a mint tea.  You will walk by the Medersas and Karaouyine University, which has existed for the past 1000 years, and see craftsmen working in the narrow lanes much as they done for centuries. The Medina is full of small alleys, like a maze, but fascinating!  It is the city of craftsmen and the spiritual capital of Morocco. Stop for lunch in the Medina.  This evening enjoy a special dinner at a wonderful Moroccan restaurant, which serves very typical Fesian cuisine.

 

Accommodation: Based on your chosen standard of accommodation.
B, D

 

 

Day Four 

After an early breakfast you depart for the full day journey to Marrakech.  The day’s journey is via the Berber villages of Azrou and Khenifa.  Travel on through the mountains, stop and view the wonderful panorama.  Visit the Kasbah of Ras El Ain and the spectacular outlook over the fertile Tadla Plain.

Arrival in Marrakech is in the late afternoon.  After settling in to your accommodation we suggest an evening stroll to the market square, Djemaa El Fna to see the jugglers, story tellers, snake charmers, acrobats and vendors performing at sunset much as they have done for centuries.  There is so much action here it will take you a few minutes to adjust to what is before you.

 

 Accommodation – Based on your chosen standard of accommodation.
B

 

 

Day Five

 

Today explore Marrakech with your guide to discover the delights this romantic city offers.  A visit to the Bahia Palace, located in the Jewish quarter known at the Mellah, the Saadien Tombs in the Kasbah, and onto the Medina and Souks.  Travel down and around the seemingly never ending lanes to look, drink mint tea, bargain and perhaps buy.
B

 

 

Day Six

 

A Day to Explore Marrakech independently or an alternative day tour to the fishing village of Essaouira (which is two and half hours by road from Marrakech) returning to Marrakech in the evening. (Essaouira Tour additional cost)
 B

 

 

Day Seven

 

You may wish to continue exploring Marrakech or have a day in the Atlas visiting Kasbah Toubkal where you can ride mules.  Alternatively a morning in the Ourika Valley located at the foot of the Atlas, visiting a Herbal and Saffron Garden - or a cookery class.

Dinner at Restaurant Yacout, one of the best restaurants in Marrakech with a roof terrace with sweeping views over the city and famed not only for the cuisine but the Interior Design.
B, D

 

Day Eight

 

Leave Marrakech for Casablanca airport for your connecting flights. 
B

 

 

Important Notes

 

This itinerary can be tailored to suit you budget and interests.  You may choose the itinerary described above or modify/ add excursions.

 

Suggested Extensions:

 

Essaouira       This beautiful Portuguese fishing village is just 2.5 hours drive from Marrakech. This is ideal for a relaxing finale to your Moroccan adventure.

Tangier           The departure point if you travel via ferry to Spain to continue your adventure.

Casablanca    The largest and most modern city in Morocco is home to the second largest mosque in the world after Mecca. The Hassam II Mosque is one of the few Mosques open to non Muslim visitors.  It is also home to the world’s tallest Minaret.

 

This itinerary includes Breakfast daily and meals as indicated in the itinerary.  This also can be modified to meet your requests.

 

            B = Breakfast

            L = Lunch

            D = Dinner

 

 Pricing and Related details

 

 

Meals                          As listed in Itinerary - All Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners as noted

 

Services                      Moroccan English Speaking Driver

                                    Registered Local Guides in the major cities

                                    Services of an air conditioned car or mini coach (depending on numbers)

 

Fees                            Daily Excursions, Tours & Entrance Fees    (As per Itinerary)

                                   

 

Tour Exclusions

 

Meals                          Other than those listed in Tour Inclusions

 

Tips                             It is custom to tip both the Guide and the Driver in Morocco.  Exact amounts will be advised with departure documents.

 

Services                      Services of a Full-time Tour Guide for the duration of your stay can be provided on request (at an additional cost).

 

Airfares                       Please ask for a quote for your flights from Australia or from/to Europe

 

 

Option                         Dubai or Abu Dhabi Stopover available on journey to/from Australia.

Add on arrangements also available to Spain and other European countries.