In the first day of the Signature Morocco tour, arrival in Casablanca, where you clear customs and immigration and transfer to your hotel. After settling in, spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Begin the day in the port city of Casablanca, Morocco’s largest metropolis and its commercial hub. Visit the stunning Hassan II Mosque, which accommodates up to 25,000 worshippers; its minaret stands as the tallest religious structure in the world. Then, 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 Mauresque-style Hassan Tower and Oudaya Kasbah, along with its palm-dotted Andalusian garden. Continue to Fez for an evening at leisure.
MEDINA
From the medina’s busy and colorful alleys and the peaceful Chellah necropolis to the buzzing marina, you will discover Rabat’s full complexity.
In contrast to the maze of streets, the historic city center is linear and impressive. A walk through Rabat’s medina might look something like this. From the Bab el-Had gate, walk down Suik Street, the largest and busiest street in the medina. You will arrive at al-Sabat, a reed mat-covered shoe market selling baboush (leather slippers), silver and gold jewelry. Then, on the partially glazed Consular Street, artisans make wool rugs, textiles, and copper objects. The medina also offers cheap local food, so don’t hesitate to try mint tea, marshmallows, tagines, and more.
KASBAH OF THE UDAYAS OUDAYAS
Oudayas Kasbah near Rabat’s nedina has kept its old cannons placed on a bastion. Its massive gate is entirely carved, while its blue and white walls give it a Mediterranean atmosphere.
A cobblestone path leads to El Attica Mosque, the oldest mosque in the city, and to an old traffic light. From here and the terrace of the adjacent Café de la Moret, visitors can enjoy magnificent views of Rabat, the nearby town of Salé, and the Boulleg River flowing into the sea. Further up, the Udayas Palace, now a national museum, has retained its characteristic simplicity and serenity, while preserving its original period decor. The Andalusian-style gardens are an oasis of serenity, with fruit trees, oleanders, and cascading bougainvillea.
BAB ROUAH
The magnificent Bab Rouak, known as the “Gate of the Winds,” is monumental. The richness of the ornamentation is remarkable, and it also serves as an exhibition hall: under the ornate arches of its four square halls are placed works by famous Moroccan artists.
CHELLAH NECROPOLIS
We invite you to visit this tranquil place. The last dwelling of the Marinids is protected by strong walls and is a favorite nesting place for storks. The ancient Roman town of Sale was also located here. You can admire the remains of the Arc de Triomphe, the square, the thermal baths, and various stores.
HASSAN TOWER
A 140-foot-tall red stone minaret built during the reign of Yaqub el-Mansur, Almohad Sultan dynasty, who ruled in 1184.
Building of Hassan’s Tower began around 1195 and was to be the largest mosque in the world. The structure was inspired by various Islamic and Moorish design, including Marrakech, Al-Andalus, and Alexandria in Spain. However, the ruler of Almohad Caliphate did not move to Rabat, but was in Marrakech.
This icon nowadays, along with the adjacent mausoleum, is a major landmark in Rabat and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to see the beautiful decorative panels of the Sekouba outside and the very photogenic stump pillars. Sunrise and sunset light give the place a special beauty and are the best times to visit.
ROYAL PALACE DAR-AL-MAKHZEN
Dar al-Maazen (or El Mechoir Essaid Palace) is the official residence of the Moroccan royal family. It is the site of important events such as weddings and official military parades. Surrounded by French-style gardens and with its iconic mosaic gates, the Royal Palace is a must-see on your trip to Rabat.
MOHAMMED VI MUSEUM OF MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY ART
The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMVI), featuring the work of nearly 200 Moroccan artists, opened in 2014 and is named after the King of Morocco. The museum offers beautiful architecture and a wide variety of exhibitions.
Fez City
The third day of this Signature Morocco tour is dedicated to explore Fez el-Bali (Old Fez), the cultural heart of Morocco. Founded in the eighth century by Moulay Idris I, this imperial capital was a renowned center of medieval learning. Stroll the lanes and souks of the labyrinthine old quarter. Proceed to the intricately detailed Karaouine. Built in 859 AD, it is one of the oldest still-functioning universities in the world. You also visit Nejjarine Square before continuing to Fez el-Jadid (New Fez) where you see the Royal Palace, madrasas and mellah (Jewish quarter).
THE MELLAH
The Jewish Quarter of Fez was founded in the 14th century and today has 160,000 people living on 9,500 streets. The various Jewish sights are worth seeing, but because of the maze of streets, Melach is best explored with an official guide.
JEWISH CEMETERY & HABARIM SYNAGOGUE
In the southwest corner of Melacha, on a slope next to the synagogue of Habarim, a sea of white tombs makes it easy to find the rabbi’s grave, which is considered one of the oldest cemeteries in Morocco, since Rabbi Vidal Hasselfati, who died in 1600, is buried there.
ROYAL PALACE DAR EL-MAKHZEN
Royal Place (Kings Square) is an elegant building with an imposing surface 80 meters high and seven gates 80 meters long, symbolizing the seven days of the week. Although the palace is private to the public, it is well worth a visit to see this magnificent building.
CHOUARA TANNERIES
Between the three tanneries in the city of Fez, this famous factory produces some of the finest leather in the world, using age-old methods and the finest materials. Visit this oldest part of the medina to discover this interesting process and buy some souvenirs.
MERENID TOMBS AT BORJ NORD
Some of the tombs and the 16th century fortifications are very dilapidated, but the beautiful decorations of the time remain, creating an emotional atmosphere. The best time to visit is at dusk, when you can get a panoramic view of Fez, but be sure to return early, as the trail is not illuminated.
NEJJARINE MUSEUM
The Nejarin Museum is an interesting and well-preserved building with wood artifacts on display and is well worth a visit. It demonstrates the importance of arts and crafts in the history of Morocco and provides a deeper understanding of the country.
ATTARIN MEDERSA
The Attarine Medersa, a former madrasa, may not be the largest in the city, but it is impressive in many ways, not just for its size. The colorful tiles and architecture make it a must-see addition to any itinerary.
JNAN SBIL GARDEN
If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Fez, this little hideaway is for you. With beautiful French-influenced gardens and a lovely waterfall, it is a relaxing place to spend some time.
KARAOUIYNE MOSQUE
Built in 859 under Fatima Fihriya, the mosque is still a place of spirituality, worship and scholarship. Its scholars were honored and respected by the Moroccan sultans, who consulted them on all matters of religion and way of life. The people of Fez, who regarded them as a standard, also turned to them for advice.
The building, which served first as a mosque and then as a university, was built by permission of Yahya I, the grandson of Idriss II al-Azhar, and did not exceed 1,248 m2. It has been enlarged, rebuilt and repaired by successive dynasties in Fez.
BAB BOUJLOUD
You will pass through a blue gate called Bab Bu Jeroud, and we highly recommend that you have a guide take you through it and talk to you about the history of the gate. There are also many restaurants in the area where you can have lunch or refreshments.
EL MOKRI PALACE
Located in the heart of the medina, the El Mokri Palace in Fez is a symbol of the ancient art of the Moroccan kingdom. The works of carpenters, zeri (floor and wall decorators) craftsmen, and plaster sculptors can be seen here. Today, new generations of youth artisans are being taught and following several traditional arts at El Mokri Palace.
ART NAJI
The family business has been making ceramics for generations and is known by local residents for its beautiful products. This authentic store offers everything from vases to plates and cups. Please take your time to browse the mosaics and painted potter
AL-QARAWIYYIN LIBRARY
The Al-Qarawiyyin Library, considered the oldest library in the world, founded in Fez over 1000 years ago (9th century), recently opened to the public after restoration work was completed. The library is still in use as the library of the University of Qarawiyyin and is the oldest continuous library in the world.
BOU INANIA MEDERSA
Medersa Bu Inania is a religious and educational building in Talaa Kebira, a remarkable work of art in itself.
Ask for a guide to help you better understand Medersa and its history, and you will be fascinated by its atmosphere.
Volubilis
Travel to small, desert-fringed Erfoud, pausing for lunch en route and marveling at everyday life as you pass Berber villages, endless date palm plantations and the majestic Atlas Mountains. After the day’s scenic drive, settle into your hotel before gathering for dinner this evening. Tonight’s meal is prepared with locally sourced, organic ingredients.
Erfoud
Travel to desert-fringed Erfoud, passing Berber villages, endless date palm plantations and the majestic Atlas Mountains en route. After today’s scenic drive, settle into your hotel, spending the rest of the day at leisure. Dinner this evening is prepared with locally sourced, organic ingredients.
The Sahara
This morning of the sixth day in this Signature Morocco tour, discover the fortified desert town of Rissani. Continue to the desert dunes of the Sahara by four-wheel-drive vehicle, where a reception with mint tea and pastries awaits at your nomadic tented camp. The stunning reddish-hued sand dunes can reach up to 500 feet high, creating an otherworldly landscape. Experience it like a local on camel back. Then, return to your camp for a traditional meal before a campfire. Slumber tonight in comfort, as the sounds of the desert lull you to sleep.
Ouarzazate
Journey overland to Ouarzazate, once a stopping point for African traders travelling to the cities of Morocco and Europe. En route, absorb views of the High Atlas’ southern slopes, intersecting the Dades Valley’s flourishing crops, irrigation canals and palm trees. Continuing our Signature Morocco Tour by traveling along the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” to Ouarzazate and your delightful oasis of a hotel.
Begin the day by exploring Ouarzazate, a city originally built as a French garrison in the 1920s. Today, the city is a regional trade center, known for its pottery and carpets. See the Kasbah of Tifoultoute, a majestic 17th-century fortress overlooking the Wadi Tifoultoute. Continue our signature Morocco tour and this time to elaborate Ait Benhaddou, dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of the region’s most exotic kasbahs, where structures all but defy the laws of gravity as they perch upon the steep slope. Some of these buildings have been featured in films, including Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator.
ATLAS MOUNTAINS
Drive through the spectacular mountains of the High Atlas, observe daily life in remote rural villages, and arrive in the enchanting “Red City” of Marrakech, where you will spend the night in a luxury hotel.
Today of this Signature Morocco Tour, begin to unearth the secrets of Marrakech, starting in the medina, the old walled section of town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at its architectural jewels, including the soaring Koutoubia Minaret. Afterward, visit Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech’s main square, which is filled with orange juice stalls and vendors, along with acrobats, dancers and street musicians performing at every turn. You may also wish to stroll the city’s fabled, labyrinthine souks.
EL BADI PALACE
El Badi Palace was built in the 16th century and is considered one of the most beautiful palaces in the world. It originally had 360 rooms, a large courtyard, and a 90 x 20 meter swimming pool.
SAADIAN TOMBS
The Saadi Dynasty tombs are beautifully decorated with vaulted ceilings, intricate carvings, and intricate stucco work. It is a very popular place in Marrakech, so be prepared to wait in line.
MENARA GARDENS
The Menard Gardens, dating from the 12th century, are surrounded by olive groves and set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains in a beautiful and tranquil settin
THE SOUKS
Stroll through this maze of Souks (markets) and let the sights, smells, and sounds overwhelm your senses. If you feel the urge to shop, be prepared to bargain.
CITY WALLS
The 12-kilometer-long Marrakech Wall was built more for its outward beauty than for its defensive function. Today, it is the perfect place to spend a romantic moment with a loved one. Horse-drawn carriages are available for tours of the medina and walls. This tour is best done at dusk.
DJEMAA EL-FNA
Jemaa el-Fna is a square and market in the bustling heart of the medina. Especially at dusk on hot days, life in Melaka is at its most colorful and vibrant. Stores sell freshly squeezed juices and restaurants appear (as if they didn’t exist) in the evenings.
MAISON DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE
Located in the heart of the city, the museum presents the history of Morocco through 3,500 photographs taken between 1870 and 1950. From its rooftop, one of the highest in the region, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view while having a light meal.
ALI BEN YOUSSEF MADRASA
Madrasah Ali Ben Yousef is an old Koranic school built in the 14th century. At its peak, it had 900 students and was the largest seminary in North Africa; it was closed in the 1960s and reopened as a public place in 1982. It does not look like much from the outside, but once inside you will be amazed at its beauty.
KOUTOUBIA MOSQUE AND MINARET
Built in 1120, the Koutoubiyya Mosque and its minaret stand 70 meters high and are a spiritual landmark in Marrakech. Unfortunately, only Muslims are allowed to enter, but the building itself is impressive from the outside.
MAJORELLE GARDEN
When you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, relax in this garden. Stroll through the shade of the palm trees and observe the beautiful plants, fountains, and birds, and if you get tired, relax at the Garden Café.
YVES SAINT LAURENT MUSEUM
Opened in 2017, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum of Fine Arts surprises with its unusual architecture. The brick building combines curves and lines, cubes and motifs, and houses exhibition rooms, an auditorium, and a library.
The YSL Museum is built nearby the well-known Majorelle Garden and – besides momentary exhibitions – displays the principal oeuvre of the French designer. Fashion and style lovers will admire an afternoon at this extraordinary museum.
Begin your day at 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, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities:
Learn to Cook with Moroccan Spices with a cooking demonstration and tasting.
Explore the Souks of Marrakech with an expert guide, walking narrow streets lined with centuries-old shops.
Enjoy a Guided Walk of the Historic Jewish Quarter, once a thriving center of religious freedom and tolerance.
Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Transfer to the Marrakech airport and board your international flight home. By this, our Signature Morocco Tour ended.
