The Experience
Abuzz with vivid color, animated souks and architectural wonders, Morocco’s allure is irresistible. On this independent Signature journey, visit Meknes and Volubilis; take a cooking class with a local chef; see artistic carvings at the Museum of Moroccan Arts; and stay at deluxe, intimate riads. Day 1: Arrive Casablanca, Morocco
Fly to Casablanca, the bustling heart of Morocco, which was settled by Berbers in the seventh century. Enjoy VIP assistance with customs and immigration formalities the moment you step off the plane.
Le Doge
Day 2: Casablanca | Cosmopolitan Culture Capital
This morning,™s sightseeing begins with an exploration of vibrant Casablanca, Morocco,™s largest city. Visit the ornate Hassan II Mosque, the tallest religious structure in the world with a stunning glass floor that looks directly over the ocean. In the afternoon, drive to Fez and continue on to your hotel. Unwind with the remainder of the day at leisure, or begin your own discovery of this untouched former capital.
Riad Fes | Meals: B
Day 3: Fez | Timeless Medieval City
Today, travel back to the Middle Ages to visit Fez el-Bali, the cultural heart of Morocco. The imperial capital was a renowned center of learning; witness that firsthand at the University of Al Karaouine, one of the oldest, still-functioning educational institutions in the world. Continue to 14th-century Attarine Medersa (Koranic college), a jewel of Hispano-Moorish architecture, and begin a walking tour from Bab Boujloud down to the former home of Jewish philosopher Maimonides. From there, follow the Talaa el-Kabira to Nejjarine Fountain, a marvelous example of mosaic tilework. Nearby, a converted fondouk (inn) exhibits carpentry artifacts, while Fez el-Jadid (New Fez) resides within the mellah (Jewish quarter). Absorb a panoramic view of the Royal Palace, continuing to the Museum of Moroccan Arts, which houses historical and artistic wood carvings, embroidery, tribal carpets and ceramics.
Riad Fes | Meals: B
Day 4: Meknes & Volubilis | Sultanate Treasures and Roman Ruins
Recall the beauty of days past in Meknes, an imperial city built in the 17th century to rival the court of Louis XIV. Later, continue to Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Morocco,™s largest and best-preserved Roman ruins; the famously preserved mosaic floors are stunning. Continue on to your hotel in Rabat.
Villa Mandarine | Meals: B
Day 5: Rabat | Charming Metropolis
This morning, embark on a city tour that highlights Rabat,™s cultural influences and the superbly preserved relics of its Moorish past. Rabat,™s most famous site is the 12th-century Hassan Tower, an excellent example of the Mauresque style. Located alongside is the mausoleum dedicated to Mohamed V, the founder of modern Morocco and grandfather of the current king. You also pay a visit to the Oudaya Kasbah, which is built on a bluff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Its gate is one of the most beautiful still surviving in the Moorish world. Beyond the walls are the remains of the ancient city of Sala, also known as Chella. Later, your journey overland continues to Marrakech, the Pearl of the South.,
Villa des Orangers | Meals: B
Day 6: Marrakech | The Red City
Set out to uncover the secrets of Marrakech, including the architectural attractions of its medina, the old walled section of the town. The minaret at Koutoubia Mosque, which dates back to the 12th century, is a fantastic example of Islamic religious architecture, while Dar Si Said housed in a palace is among the most beautiful of its kind in the world. Time permitting, you also explore the Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace and the famed Djemaa el-Fna square. You may also choose to visit a shelter for displaced children, an A&K Philanthropy project that assists homeless and destitute children.
Villa des Orangers | Meals: B
Day 7: Marrakech | Local Flavors and Flora
Discover the rewards of Moroccan cuisine considered among the richest in the world during a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef. Afterward, take a horse-drawn carriage ride to discover the lush flora of Marrakech at Menara Gardens and Majorelle Garden.
Villa des Orangers | Meals: B
Day 8: Depart Marrakech
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your international flight home.
Meals: B