14-Day Morocco Cultural Experience

On your arrival at Casablanca airport, you will be greeted by a tour manager who will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel in Casablanca. In the afternoon, you will have a tour of Casablanca, including the Habbous quarter, the United Nations square, the Royal Palace and the Hassan II mosque, one of the Islamic world’s stunning monuments.

From: Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport
To: Casablanca

On your arrival to Casablanca Airport, You will be greeted by a tour manager who will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to Casablanca.

The 24-floor Sofitel Casablanca Hotel is located opposite the Hassan II mosque, in the heart of the business district in the city centre, and towers above the white city of Casablanca.

It has 141 rooms and 30 suites, each of which boasts an innovative design combining comfort, modernity and luxury. The first 4 floors of this charismatic building are dedicated to guest amenities: two restaurants, one bar, a spa spanning two floors and a ballroom.

The views of the city, the ocean or the great mosque from the rooms are amazing and unique. The spacious, comfortable and high-tech suites tower above the city of Casablanca with views that will take your breath away.

Address: Hotel Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche, Casablanca, Morocco

The largest in the country, Hassan II Mosque is a momentous dedication to the Islamic religion. Its 60-storey-high minaret is topped with a laser, which points to Mecca, the birthplace of the prophet Muhammed – it is the tallest minaret in the world. Looking out to the ocean, the mosque is partially built on the seabed, creating a picturesque place of worship that over 100,000 people can come to pray in.

The mosque is a sublime piece of Moroccan architecture that defines the grandeur of the style. It is estimated that 6,000 artists spent 5 years creating the traditional Moroccan designs that make up the mosque. The artists used marbles, granites, wood, plaster mould to make the great mosaic of all; the complex that is the Hassan II Mosque.

Address: Boulevard de la Corniche, Casablanca 20000, Morocco

After breakfast in Casablanca, you will complete the city tour if you did not have a chance to visit on the previous day, then you will head to the capital city of Rabat. Once in Rabat, you will visit the Chellah and Kasbah of Oudayas within the ramparts of the old city. It will be a day packed full of beautiful sights, history and culture and will be sure to be a highlight of your 14-day Morocco tour!.

From: Casablanca
To: Rabat

The Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses hotel occupies a majestic position in the heart of Rabat, close to the Royal Palace and Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Completely renovated, its contemporary design blends with the best in Moroccan architecture.

This 5-star luxury hotel is set amongst a 17-acre garden. A real palace with an international reputation, its history is closely tied to the great conferences and international events that have taken place within the kingdom.

Architects Didier Gomez and Karim Chakor have combined French design with Moroccan art on themes of amber, water, roses, mashrabiya latticework and mosaics; Murano glass and marble chandeliers illuminate the hallway.

Address: Hotel Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses, Impasse Souissi, Rabat, Morocco

Facing the Hassan Tower, standing tall on the Yacoub alMansour esplanade, is the mausoleum of late Mohammed V. Completed in 1971, it contains the tombs of the Moroccan King and his two sons, late King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah.

The building is considered a masterpiece of modern Alaouite dynasty architecture, with its white silhouette, detailed features and topped by a traditional green tiled roof; green being the symbolic colour of Islam as within the holy scripture the Quran, it is associated with Paradise.

Address: Rabat, Morocco

Situated in the capital city of Rabat, Hassan tower is the minaret of an incomplete mosque. Construction began in 1195 and was intended to the the world’s largest minaret along with the mosque, also as the world’s largest. However, the death of Sultan Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur in 1199 halted the construction at 44 metres, 42 metres short of what it was intended to be.

The mosque was also left incomplete with only the beginnings of several walls and 348 columns constructed. The Hassan Tower along with the incomplete mosque and the modern Mausoleum of Mohammed V form an important historical and tourist complex in Rabat.

Address: Boulevard Mohamed Lyazidi, Rabat, Morocco

Along the Bou Regreg River, the Kasbah of the Oudayas was built in the 12th century, during the reign of the Almohad Caliphate.

When the Almohads had seized Rabat and destroyed the Kasbah of the Almoravid Dynasty in the town, they began to reconstruct it between AH 544 and AD 1150. With the addition of a palace and a mosque, it was renamed it al-Mahdiyya, after their ancestor al-Mahdi Ibn Tumart. The Kasbah is now largely abandoned.

You will have the opportunity to visit the old-fashioned Moorish gardens, stop in a traditional coffee house for mint tea, and in between, explore the Oudaya museum of tribal arts and crafts where you will be introduced to traditional Berber textiles.

Address: Rabat, Morocco

After breakfast in Rabat, you will head to the beautiful city of Chechaoun, located in the middle of the Rif Mountains, Chefchaoun is known for its beautiful, vibrant blue walls and narrow alleyways. This very peaceful and charming little town is full of life and excitement. In the afternoon, you’ll tour around the city, getting a feel for the history and rustic charm of its Medina.

From: Rabat
To: Chefchaouen

After breakfast in Rabat, we will head to the beautiful city of Chechaoun, located in the middle of the Rif Mountains, Chefchaoun is known for its beautiful blue walls and narrow alleyways. It is a very peaceful and charming little town full of life and excitement.

Surrounded by magnificent mountains and nestled in the heart of the Medina, this luxurious riad enjoys a privileged position in one of Morocco’s most unique destinations.

Many of the bright and spacious suites enjoy views of the surrounding peaks and the bustling Medina. The 300 squaremetre terraces offer spectacular views, making Lina Riad and Spa a haven of tranquillity within one of the most peaceful places in the world. Special attention has been paid to the harmonious shapes and colours of the mountains, with dim lights and aquatic scents creating a captivating atmosphere.

Guests looking for a zen getaway should look no further. The spa with its heated indoor pool, oriental baths and Hammam will offer traditional delicious moments of relaxation. Many massages and personal care with natural and organic products are available. Personalised service promises a unique and unforgettable stay in an area where authentic Medina living is still preserved.

Address: Lina Ryad

Perched below the cliffs of the Rif mountain range, Chefchaouen is ideal for relaxing and wandering, taking in its wonderful laid-back ambience. Commonly known as the ‘blue city’, blue paint absolutely dominates this city – every doorway, wall, path and house is painted blue.

Place Uta el Hammam is the old centre of the town with a grand fountain. The medina has many charming, winding alleyways. In the compact medina, local crafts to seek out are leather, woodwork and cloth.

This blue-washed city is one of the prettiest places in Morocco and perhaps in the whole of Africa. Whilst it may be a popular area, the ambience and authenticity have remained.

Address: Chefchaouen, Morocco

After breakfast in Chefchaoun, you will continue on our trip to eventually reach Fes. On the way, you will be visiting the Roman ruins of Volubilis before we continue to visit the city of Meknes and its monument, you’ll tour around some of the most significant sites in Meknes before finishing the day in your overnight destination, Fes.

From: Chefchaouen
To: Fes

Situated just outside the city of Meknes, Volubilis is a partly excavated Berber and Roman city which developed during the 3rd century BC as a Berber settlement before later becoming the capital of the kingdom of Mauretania.

Growing rapidly to 42 hectares encircled by 2.6 kilometres of walls during the Roman rule in the 1st century, the city also saw the addition of many major public buildings in the 2nd century; a basilica, temple and triumphal arch were of the many added.

The prosperous city fell as fast as it grew and in 285 it was taken by local tribes and never retaken by Rome; it lay inhabited for 700 years. Finally, in the 8th century, it became the seat of Idris ibn Abdallah, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty and the state of Morocco, before being abandoned once again in the 11th century.

Up until the 18th century, many of the ruins remain intact but a huge earthquake followed by looted for stone for nearby Meknes left Volubilis devastated. During French rule in Morocco, the site was excavated revealed many fine mosaics, prominent public buildings and high-status houses, which were all restored or reconstructed. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Address: VOLUBILIS وليل ,Meknes, Morocco

The Mellah Qdim, once the old Jewish quarter, the new Mellah has a modest synagogue frequented by a small community via Berrima.

Mellahs were first built in the city of Fez during the 15th century and soon spread across Morocco, originally intended to be a place of safety and protection for the Jewish people.

You sense the change in building styles once through the arch that separates the Mellah from the Medina.

Address: Rue el ferran berrima, Meknès, Maroc

A famous square throughout Morocco, Lahdim Square was built between 1672-1674 after the Sultan, Moulay Ismail, demolished half of the Old City of Meknes to accommodate his palace and the square. Lahdim is regarded as one of the most important sites in the city, a symbol of the national struggle for Moroccan people, having once been used as a gathering place for cultural, religious and political events.

At night, the square comes to life with numerous performers creating an atmosphere that is unlike anything you have seen before.

Address: 50000 Rue Ahmed Bendriss Mellouli, Meknès 50070, Morocco

Set in the heart of Fès in a former Arab-Moorish palace, Palais Faraj Suites & Spa offers a sweeping view of the medina from its balconies.

The hotel features an outdoor pool, spa, hammam, massage treatments and beauty salon on site as well as numerous interesting tours and activities that can be arranged during your stay. The reception is open 24 hours a day.

Each air-conditioned, modern suite is decorated with Moroccan Zellige tiles and has free Wi-Fi, minibar and flatscreen TV with satellite channels among the amenities that will make you feel at home in what feels like a classic Moroccan-style apartment. All rooms have a private bathroom and some have a terrace.

Breakfast is available daily at Palais Faraj Suites & Spa. For other meals, Moroccan dishes are available in Amandier, one of the hotel’s 2 restaurants. There are also 2 bars on site.

Address: Palais Faraj Suites & Spa, Derb Ziat, Fes, Morocco

Your guide will meet you at your hotel at 9 am to start the day early so that you can embrace this wonderful city! Explore the cultural and spiritual centre of Morocco. You will start at Fes el Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded in the 9th century, and is home to the world’s oldest university that you will also have the chance to visit.

Traversing through a labyrinth of sandstone streets, the best way to explore Fes is without expectation or knowing exactly where you want to go. The best place to do this is in the markets of Fes El Jdid, one of the four main districts of the city.

Embark on a journey of the senses as you pass spice and perfume stalls, restaurants, and tailors; be blown away with the vibrant colours of the fabrics and great sacks of dyes and do some people watching while embracing the sounds of locals selling their wares.

A market is a haven of activity, the best way to get to know the way of life in Morocco.

Address: Fes El Jdid, Fes, Morocco

Bou Inania is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of Marinid architecture.

With the advice from the leaders of Al-Qarawiyyin, Abou Inan, the last Sultan of the Marinid dynasty built the madrasa, it was the last building to be erected during the ruling of this dynasty, named after the sultan.

Upon completion, the madrasa was used as an educational centre and a congregational mosque; this is the reason that this madrasa became the only one to have a minaret, from which worshippers are called to prayer. The madrasa was, and still is, highly regarded as a Great Mosque. In spite of its reverence, it’s one of the few religious sites that non-Islamic visitors can enter.

Found opposite the Bou Inania Madrasa is the Dar al-Magana, a hydraulic clock that was built in conjunction with the madrasa.

Address: Madrasa Bou Inania, Rue Talaa Sghira, Fes, Morocco

The main entrance to Fes el Bali, Bab Bou Jeloud is an ornate beauty that dates back to the 12th century, although the name itself is much older.

The Moorish triple-arched gate is made up of polychrome tiles and Moroccan mosaic patterns in blue and green; the latter is representative of Islam. The gate encloses a square filled with shops and restaurants. Interestingly the gate door close from the inside, which is thought to have been a means of control from the French, rather than protection.

Address: Fes, Morocco

Situated in Fes el Bali, the old medina quarter in the city of Fes, the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts also known as Funduq al-Najjariyyin, is a building that was once used by merchants, traders and visitors to the city of Fes, providing a storage place for their goods, whilst they took lodgings on the floors above.

Now renovated to a museum, the central courtyard is reached through a monumental entrance of 5 metres tall and 3 metres wide, framed by a facade of floral and geometric designs and tilework.

The central courtyard is surrounding by a three-storey gallery which gives access to other rooms. Restored between 1990 and 1996, the building is now home to a diverse collection of wooden artefacts such as prayer beads, craftsmen’s tools, chests and musical instruments, all beautifully presented.

If you climb the final flight of stairs to the rooftop, you’ll be greeted with a wonderful view over the city of Fes.

Address: Place an-Nejjarine, Fès, Morocco

The University, also one of the most highly revered places of worship in the country, is the oldest existing continually operating university in the world. The institution has been recognised by both UNESCO and Guinness World Records.

The grand building was founded by Fatima al-Fihri in 859 with another associated school. The building soon became one of the most notable spiritual and educational centres of the Islamic Golden Age, the first in the Islamic world.

The university focuses its studies and historical texts on Islamic religious and scientific laws, alongside traditional Arabic linguistics and the study of ancient Sunni law.

The architecture of the building has had many additions since it’s first construction over 1000 years ago, its original size was around 30 metres long, maintaining a rather simplistic design comparative to other Moroccan structures. However, the minaret was the first of its kind, forming the design and structure that is echoed throughout northern Africa.

Al-Qarawiyyin is the central point of focus for religious activity in Fes; it has been established through tradition that the mosques of Fes must hear the call to prayer from AlQarawiyyin before sounding their own call to prayer.

Address: Karaouiyne, Fès, Morocco

From father to son, the Fakhari family has kept the art of the ancient craft of pottery and mosaic (zellij) since 1930. This family has proved throughout these years that it has real artistic expertise in the field of pottery and mosaics.

Art Naji a name related to authenticity, wealth, culture and tradition, a name etched in the art of Moroccan craftsmanship since 1997.

Even while being adapted to modern life, Fes has not lost its traditions nor exceeded the wonders of the craft. Both Moroccan architecture and pottery are specific disciplines that require the know-how of craftsmen so that they can pass the trades down through generations. Morocco has always been able to keep the purest respect for traditions and crafts, however, the Fakhari family have added, with great finesse, a modern touch to their creations to give you the best art of pottery and mosaics.

⇒guided

Address: Fes, Morocco

After an early breakfast, you will depart for Erfoud through the mid-Atlas Mountains region. You’ll stop in Azrou to visit a Berber village known for its handicraft cooperative. After an independent lunch, you’ll continuation to Midelt (an important mining centre) and to the Ziz River through a series of fortified villages characterised by fascinating southern architecture, another highlight of your 14-day Morocco tour.

From: Fes
To: Erfoud

Flowing through the Ziz Gorges from Rich, the Ziz River brings rich greenery to the surrounding valley before puttering out in the dunes of the Merzouga desert. Originating in the High Atlas Mountains, the river flowers 282 kilometres finishing in the Sahara desert in Algeria.

The river, although intermittent at times, has long been used to facilitate human transit through the mountainous region. Er Rachidia, Erfoud and Sijilmassa are all cities that sit along the Ziz.

In the south, the Ziz Valley widens opening itself up to a fantastic sight of a dense canopy of palms sandwiched between ancient Jurassic period cliffs. It is definitely worth a visit just to take in this spectacular scenery.

Address: Mosque Valley Ziz, N13, Errachidia, Morocco

Kasbah Hotel Xaluca is located in Arfoud, a city known as “the Door to the Desert.” The Kasbah is listed as unique in Morocco due to its distinctive characteristics. It was built with adobes, the traditional Moroccan building bricks, and it is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the moment.

Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud offers 137 spacious rooms decorated with regional materials, as well as 7 bungalows. It combines tradition with modern amenities, where installations are adapted to the stringiest standards.

It is a fantastic place, situated among the dunes and palms, where you will be able to enjoy unique emotions. The team at Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud will make your stay unforgettable.

Address: Kasbah Hôtel Xaluca Arfoud, Errachidia, Morocco

You’ll have the morning at your leisure in Erfoud, then you will head to the village of Merzouga and the Sahara. First, you’ll visit the village of Khamlia, known for its jazz and Gnawa music before arriving in the Auberge, close to the dunes. You’ll have lunch and relax for before you start the camel adventure, catching the sunset over the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.

From: Erfoud
To: Merzouga

Located in the Errachidia Province in eastern Morocco, Rissani is a town that once was a thriving desert capital. Here, fortunes including gold and slaves were traded between caravans during its heyday between the 14th and 18th centuries.

It was also home to the epic battle between the Filali, the ancestors of the ruling Alawite dynasty, and the Saadians, due to its strategic location.

On the outskirts of town, you’ll find the mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, third great-grandfather of Moulay Cherif, founder of the Alaouite Dynasty of Morocco.

Today, the town consists of a single street and a square with a small percentage of the popular living in the 17th-century ksar. On Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday, there are souks where you can see locals trading birds, sheep and desert jewellery.

Address: Rissani, Morocco

A small village in the Moroccan Sahara, Khamila’s inhabitants are direct descendants of the Gnawa tribe who were enslaved and removed from their homelands and brought to Morocco as part of the world slave trade.

As they moved across the desert, connected by chains, they sang and found music in the sound of the chains, and they continued to sing as a way of retaining their culture and heritage.

When Islam became popular in the 18th century, the slaves were released, as it is condemned in the religion. The freed slaves were able to make their traditional instruments and continue their love for music, with thanks for freedom and memories of their homeland.

The Gnawa lived as nomads until the last century, Khamila was almost unaccessible until recently, when a road was built through it. Visitors are welcomed to listen to Gnawa music, there is also an annual music festival.

Address: Khemliya, Morocco

Crossing the vast expanse of dunes, the Sahara is an unbelievable sight formed by the wind.

On your camel, you’ll be guided through the sands of Erg Chebbi, said to be created as a punishment from God to the people of Merzouga for refusing to house a woman and her child during a local festival. The sand-filled land creates a deafening silence and otherworldly experience that will make you surprised to see another human being.

Interestingly, the Ergs are not technically part of the Sahara, as it is part of the Pre-Saharan Steppes, where shrublands once were.

Address: Erg Chebbi, Merzouga, Morocco

Azawad luxury Desert Camp is a new-fashioned accommodation mixing modernity and authenticity in the desert of Merzouga, south-eastern Morocco.

This Sahara desert camp is situated in the heart of Erg Chebbi sand dunes a couple of miles from the village of Merzouga. It offers different categories of rooms in the shape of nomadic tents, decorated with the finest Berber art crafted materials and furnished with mattresses and lighting. A dining tent-hall is also available as well as bathrooms in the camp.

Merzouga’s perfect location amid the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi makes it a must-see destination, and a lovely place to enjoy outright silence away from today’s contemporary aspect of life. The sand dunes of Erg Chebbi are the immense dunes in North Africa, reaching an altitude of 150 metres and spans 50 kilometres across the area.

Due to the breath-taking views it entails, such as sunset spectacles and a variety of activities to do like sand-boarding, quad bikes excursions and diverse sight-seeing opportunities, the area attracts thousands of tourists and locals alike each year.

Address: Azawad Luxury Desert Camp, Merzouga, Morocco

You’ll start early to see the beautiful sunrise before having a delicious breakfast in the middle of the dunes, followed by a camel ride back to the hotel. You will depart to Tineghir via the holy city of Rissani, a site where the ancestors of the Alaouite Dynasty are buried in the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Sherif. You’ll visit the Todgha Gorge before stopping in the Dades Gorge for the night.

From: Merzouga
To: Boumalne Dades

Tinghir is famous for its magnificent canyons with rocks that reach up to 250 metres. You’ll have the option to do a short hike to explore the fascinating area a little further.

Found on the outskirts of the desert plateau, the area is mainly home to Berber people. For those travelling around the area, it is known for its winding roads and rugged, sparse landscape that drop down dramatically into steep gorges.

Address: Dadès Gorges, Morocco

Nature, comfort and relaxation in the middle of valleys and mountains of the High Atlas. At an altitude of 1,612 metres, surrounded by majestic mountains at the very spine of the Atlas range, whose impressive ravines sketch out to the winds in the sky, the Xaluca Dades Hotel, enjoys a panoramic view of the Dades Valley, sprinkled with friendly Berber villages and snowy peaks.

Hotel Xaluca Dades offers 106 beautifully designed, welcoming rooms, exquisitely decorated with materials from different African countries. It is a real paradise in the middle of the mountains.

Address: Hôtel Xaluca Dades, Boumalne Dades, Morocco

After breakfast in beautiful Dades gorge, you will drive to Ouarzazate where you will visit the Glaoui Kasbah once the home of the Pacha of the region before leaving the country after the departure of the French in 1956. You will then continue to visit the Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a spectacularly well-preserved Ighem that was once part of the caravan route, and then, drive across the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakesh.

From: Boumalne Dades
To: Marrakesh

Forming the high walls of an earthen Berber village, Taourirt was the former Kasbah of the Caid, El Glaoui, the leading trade commanders who had complete control of trades with West Africa.

During French colonial period the El Glaoui, as chiefs of the tribes, were given more powers in an effort to keep the tribes of the south at bay.

Today, most of the Kasbah lies in ruins, although tours of a small part are still possible. With some assistance from UNESCO, this part of the Kasbah has been restored; visitors are shown around the kitchens, a harem and some reception rooms – be sure to look out the tiny windows of the fortified walls for some beautiful views looking out in Ouarzazate.

Address: Avenue Mohammed V, Ouarzazate 45000, Morocco

A vast complex of kasbahs, Ait Ben Haddou is an Ighrem – meaning fortified village which makes up the finest example of Moroccan earthen clay architecture that still stands today.

The fortified village is more or less uninhabited, with those looking to work in the tourist trade living on the other side of the river. The oldest structure in the fortified town doesn’t seem to be older than the 17th century, although the technique suggests a much earlier date that is deeply rooted in the southern Moroccan tradition that can be traced as far back as the pre-Saharan age.

Aït Ben Haddou‌ was essential to the sustainability of the trading route between Sudan and Marrakesh; a bustling, yet compact trading village.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site has appeared in several films and tv series, including The Mummy, Gladiator and Game of Thrones – gaining international recognition, and instigating great interest in its origins, despite generally acting as a replacement for Jerusalem.

Address: Aït Benhaddou, Morocco

Since opening in 1946, La Maison Arabe has achieved legendary status in Marrakesh. Ideally situated in the medina, the hotel includes 32 rooms and suites, most with private terraces and fireplaces, three restaurants, a piano bar, a world-famous cooking school as well as a new spa including a traditional hammam, where natural products from the region of Marrakech are used.

Guests at La Maison Arabe have a choice of swimming pools. One can relax at either the heated pool in the hotel’s garden patio or at the pool located at the spectacular Country Club, 15 minutes away by complimentary shuttle.

Walking through the hotel’s flower-filled patios, one can admire the traditional Moroccan craftsmanship  tadelakt walls, chiselled plaster, cedar wood ceilings– that has created a refined, exotic and serene atmosphere for guests.

Address: Hotel La Maison Arabe, Derb Assehbi, Marrakesh, Morocco

The first part of the day will be devoted to sightseeing in Marrakesh with your licensed English local tour guide. Your visit will cover major monuments, the old Medina, the souks and Jemaa El-Fna, a huge market that is filled with lively entertainment in the evening. You’ll have a free afternoon to relax or explore a little more.

The largest mosque in Marrakesh, Koutoubia Mosque is also known by several other names, such as Jami’ al-Kutubiyah, Kutubiya Mosque, Kutubiyyin Mosque, and Mosque of the Booksellers.

Found in the southwest medina quarter of Marrakesh, the mosque is ornamented with curved windows, a band of ceramic inlay, pointed merlons, and decorative arches; it has a large plaza with gardens and is floodlit at night, casting a dramatic light over the mosque.

The most notable, and essential feature for all mosques, is the minaret, where you will hear the sound of the call to prayer echoing throughout the city 5 times per day. The design is particularly magnificent, its facade is undoubtedly one of the most photographed motifs of the city.

Address: Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakesh, Morocco

Originally founded in the 1920s, Jardin Majorelle was created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and is fantastically coloured just like a painting. It is filled with marble pools, raised pathways, banana trees, groves of bamboo, coconut palms and bougainvillaeas.

Well thought out, many of the features of the garden were painted in dark blue, known as ‘Majorelle Blue’, which is complemented by the colour of the soil, climate and plants. To Majorelle, this garden was his masterpeice, even more so than his paintings.

Within the garden, you’ll see how many plays a large part with many channels, lily-filled ponds and fountains throughout. When Jacques Majorelle and his wife divorced in the 1950s the gardens were left abandoned until the 1980s when it was purchased and bought back to life by fashion designers, Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé.

Address: Rue Yves St Laurent By A-Maps، Marrakech 40000, Morocco

Surrounded by gardens, the Bahia Palace was built in the late 19th century. Intended to be the greatest palace of its time, its name translates to ‘brillance palace’ in English.

As with other buildings of the period in Morocco, it was intended to capture the essence of the Islamic and Moroccan style. Today, it stands as one of the most beautiful and extensive structures in Morocco.

The palace expands over eight hectares of land and is one of the largest and most luxurious palaces of its time. Standing as a fine example of Morrocan architecture, it is one of the major monuments of the Morroco’s cultural heritage and top tourist spot.

Address: 38 masira 2 Bloc -C, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco

Located next to the mosque of the Kasbah, the Saadian tombs are one of the only remains of the Saadian dynasty that reigned over the Golden Age of Marrakesh between 1524 to 1659.

In the early 18th century, Sultan Moulay Ismail decided to remove all traces of the magnificence of this dynasty by demanding the destruction of all remaining vestiges. He dared not, however, commit the sacrilege of destroying their burials and ordered that the entrance to the necropolis be completed.

The Royal necropolis was used from the beginning of the 14th century, however its splendour came at a later date. In 1557, the burial of Prince Mohamed Sheikh took place. His son Ahmed El Mansour, also known as Ahmed “the Walleye”, had the mausoleum enlarged and embellished the site with the koubba “Lalla Mesouada” from his mother’s name. Lalla Messaouda was buried there in 1591 as well as the 3 successors of the sultan.

Address: Rue de La Kasbah, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco

Named after Almoravid sultan Ali ibn Yusuf who reigned from 1106–1142 and expanded the city considerably, the Ben Youssef Madrasa was an Islamic college and one of the biggest in Morocco.

Founded in the 14th century by Marinid sultan Abu al-Hassan, the building was reconstructed in the 16th century by the Saadian Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib, finally being finished in 1565. The 130 student rooms cluster around a central courtyard carved in cedar, marble and stucco.

At any point, this school may have houses as many as 900 students and was one of the largest theological colleges in North Africa. In 1960, the college was closed down and reopened to the public as a historic site in 1982 following a refurbishment.

Address: Rue Assouel, Marrakech 40000, Morocco

Enjoy a free day in Marrakesh or do a suggested cooking class experience, where you get a chance to learn how to cook different Moroccan dishes. You can spend the afternoon enjoying mint tea in a cafe that overlooks the main market watching the world go by. This is the perfect day to explore, relax and reflect on your 14 day Morocco tour so far.

A city like no other, Marrakesh exceeds all expectations and will be a definite highlight during your Morocco travel experience. From ancient architecture and markets to charming restaurants and ornate artworks, the city is a treasure trove of secrets waiting to be discovered.

Take a walk through the Medina to discover the gardens, religious sites and mosaics that the city is famous for.

Wondering around the streets you can sample some local delicacies from street vendors and try your hand at haggling for trinkets. In the evening, you can head to Jamaa el-Fna for some entertainment that is only found in Marrakesh.

Address: Marrakesh, Morocco

The legendary restaurant at La Maison Arabe today offers cooking workshops designed for both amateurs and professionals.

The workshops are conducted by a Dada (traditional Moroccan cook) or a chef from the Moroccan restaurant and are held in the hotel. Small groups of maximum 10 participants work alongside a translator (Arabic/English/French), using easy-touse modern equipment found in everyday kitchens.

At the end of each workshop, participants dine on the meal they have prepared. At a typical half-day workshop, one learns to prepare an appetizer and a main dish, or a main dish and dessert.

Address: Derb Assehbi, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco

After breakfast, you will depart to the beautiful seaside town of Essaouira. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Essaouira featuring its Portuguese harbour that portrays both Moorish and Portuguese art. Highlights will also include the Skala (the Battery) left by the pirates and enjoying the sunset over this beautiful beach town.

From: Marrakesh
To: Essaouira

Inspired by the magnificent Moroccan riads, the Médina Essaouira Hotel Thalassa Sea and Spa by MGallery is decorated in the traditional red of Mogador.

Close to the sea, the medina and the port, this luxury 5-star hotel blends modernity with Moroccan style for a sophisticated stay while exploring typical Essaouira areas and monuments. With the spa and thalassotherapy centre, restaurants and bars, pool and beach, each area offers a unique experience.

Located on the edge of the beach, the Medina Essaouira Hotel Thalassa Sea & Spa hotel promises you the perfect balance of relaxation and discovery.

In about ten minutes’ walk, you can stroll around the narrow streets of Essaouira’s medina, admire its fishing port and the Kasbah, visit the Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum and contemplate the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean from the city’s historic ramparts.

Address: Le Médina Essaouira Thalassa sea

A laid-back town, perfect for a beach escape from the city, Essaouira that oozes charms, from quaint harbour-side houses to the maze of market stalls, Essaouira was formerly known as a trading port for the Portuguese. Today, it attracts artists with its beauty, and tourists for its picture-postcard harbour and inviting beaches.

Strolling around the markets, terraced restaurants of the town, you’ll find Essaouira is a haven for travellers, with stunning food, beautiful architecture and a well-deserved opportunity to take some rest at the beach.

Address: Essaouira, Morocco

You’ll have a morning to enjoy Essaouira at leisure before you will drive through the Atlantic Coast with couple stops along the way too visit small town such as Safi which known for its pottery work and also the city of Oualidia known for its golden sandy beach. Once in Casablanca, you will be dropped at your hotel located just 4 miles from the airport. A morning transfer to the airport will be arranged.

From: Essaouira
To: Casablanca

The strategic location for all the corporates of the industrial area of Nouaceur, and for travellers in transit through the international airport of Casablanca, the Hotel Atlas Sky is the perfect place for your business meetings and for your relaxation stays.

Every moment promises a pleasant experience, from the warm welcome in an authentic setting to the spacious rooms and suites, customised services, meeting rooms, private lounge, equipped with the latest technology and a certified professional Thalgo spa.

Address: Atlas Sky Airport, Casablanca, Morocco

After breakfast and depending on your flight time, a private transfer will be arranged to the airport.

From: Atlas Sky Airport
To: Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport