Morocco: Cities and Souks, Casablanca, Fes, Rabat, Marrakech

Private tour in Marrakech, Ait Benhaddou, Merzouga

Tour Price : $2000-7000 Duration : 4-7 hours Languages: Spanish, French, Italian, English, Arabic

This ten-day journey through the historic cities and towns of Morocco offers a comprehensive introduction to the country, from the hidden corners of the ancient medinas to the wide boulevards of the French ville nouvelle.
 

DAY 1 ARRIVE - CASABLANCA

Upon arrival at Mohamed V International Airport, you will be escorted through the airport (VIP airport service includes expedited passport control) and introduced to your private guide and driver. Spend the remainder of the day with your guide and driver exploring Casablanca, the largest and most famous city in Morocco.

Start at the Mosque Hassan V, the second largest house of worship in Islam, and then visit the famed Art Deco buildings clustered around Plaza Mohamed V. Highlights include the main post office, the Palais de Justice and the Cinema Rialto. Stop for a coffee or cocktail and enjoy the unparalleled people watching in this cosmopolitan area.

DAY 2 - CASABLANCA – FES

This morning your driver will transfer you through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains to Fes. The journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains offers stunning views as well several sights of historical interest, and you are welcome to stop and explore as long as you wish along the way. Though only partially excavated, the Roman ruins of Volubilis has lovely mosaics and several impressive buildings that date from the 3rd century BC. Moulay Idriss is a charming hill town that contains the shrine of the man who is credited with introducing Islam to the Maghreb. In Fes, check in to your hotel. After a rest, we recommend heading to the rooftop of the riad at sunset to enjoy a glass of wine as you listen to the haunting sounds of the call to prayer echoing from the minarets across the city.
 

DAY 3 - FES

Today you will have a private guide and driver at your disposal to explore Fes, the second largest city in Morocco and its cultural capital. The highlight of Fes is the sprawling medina, Fes El Bali, which is in the oldest walled part of the city and a throbbing commercial center unlike any you have likely seen before. Narrow alleys create a crowded labyrinthine warren of stalls that overflow with spices, olives, rugs and leatherwork.

 Walk down Talaa Kebira, the spine of Fes el Bali, to the Bou Inania Medersa, a seminary/dormitory that offers a splendid example of Moroccan architecture’s three main elements: tile mosaics, carved plaster, and painted cedar. See the striking Blue Gate, the gates of the Al-Karaouine Mosque and Chouara Tanneries for a look at how leather is treated.
 

DAY 4 - FES

Continue exploring the Fes medina and, if you wish, the mellah (Jewish Quarter), which is adjacent to the Royal Palace. Stroll through the R’cif food markets to observe locals shopping as they have for centuries – these markets were “farm-to-table” long before it was trendy! If you wish, we will arrange a private cooking class in a traditional riad and arrange dinner reservations at a few of the restaurants that are creating truly exceptional Moroccan cuisine.
 

DAY 5 - FES – RABAT

Today your driver will take you to coastal Rabat. Along the way, stop in Meknes, the imperial capital of Sultan Moulay Ismail, founder of the ruling Alaouite Dynasty. The massive granaries that he had built were rumored to hold enough hay for 12,000 animals! We also suggest a stop at the Place El Hedim, which offers excellent people-watching. Continue to Rabat, Morocco’s capital city, and – if time and energy permit – visit Le Tour Hassan, the half-finished minaret that is the city’s iconic landmark and a symbol of its ambition.
 

DAY 6 - RABAT – MARRAKECH

Spend the day wandering through the Kasbah des Oudaias and Chellah, which date to the Phoenician period. When you are ready, continue to Marrakech. After settling in to your hotel, set out for an introduction to this marvelous city. Start at Djemma el Fnaa, the main square and heart of Marrakech. The square comes alive in the evening, with entertainers and food vendors vying for your attention; explore the unknown corners of the square before returning to your hotel.
 

DAY 7 - COOKING LESSON

Today you will be driven to a small village for a cooking lesson. In addition to learning about the spice blends unique to Morocco, you will cook a traditional tagine and bake bread alongside a lush organic garden. Upon completion of the lesson, you can enjoy the feast you helped prepare. Return to Marrakech and take in the latest exhibit at the Maison de la Photographie, which houses a well-curated collection of antique photographs.
 

DAY 8 - HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS

Start the day with an energizing hike in the High Atlas Mountains. The walk is tailored to your comfort level – whether you prefer a gentle walk or a challenging hike, you are afforded magnificent sweeping views of the snow-capped peaks and a chance to stroll through the lovely orchards that dot the hillsides. Monday, Tuesday and Saturday are market days and we highly recommend a visit to these smaller village souks, which offer a pleasant contrast to the crowded city markets. Return to Marrakech in the afternoon.

DAY 9 - MARRAKECH

Continue exploring Marrakech with your guide and driver today. A must-see is the Majorelle Gardens, a gift to the people of Marrakech from designer Yves Saint-Laurent – the brilliant cobalt blue and sunny yellow of the gardens offer endless photographic opportunities! We are happy to make reservations at any of Marrakech’s excellent restaurants – and highly recommend the fish tagine at La Maison Arabe!

DAY 10 - MARRAKECH – CASABLANCA

Your driver will take you to Casablanca’s Mohamed V Airport for your departure flight. The drive from Marrakech to Casablanca should take approximately 2.5 hours.  

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