Taste of Morocco Trip

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Taste of Morocco Trip Casablanca - Meknes - Chefchaouen - Fes - Merzouga - Boumalne Dades - Ait Ben Haddou - Marrakesh - Essaouira 14 Days / 13 Nights 0 Persons

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Introduction

Accommodation Destination Basis Duration

Hotel Diwan Casablanca Casablanca RO 1 Night

Riad El Yacout Meknes B&B 1 Night

Puerta Azul Chefchaouen B&B 1 Night

Zahrat Al Jabal Fes B&B 2 Nights

Azawad Luxury Desert Camp Merzouga HB 1 Night

Kasbah Dades Chems Boumalne Dades HB 1 Night

Dar Mouna Ait Ben Haddou HB 1 Night

Riad & Spa Challa Marrakesh B&B 2 Nights

Palais Des Remparts Essaouira B&B 2 Nights

Hotel Diwan Casablanca Casablanca B&B 1 Night

Key RO: Room only HB: Half Board - Dinner, Bed and Breakfast B&B: Bed and Breakfast

Included • Accommodation in: comfortable 4* hotels, luxury camp & Riads • English speaking Tour leader throughout • Private air-conditioned transportation with WI-FI hroughout • 13 Breakfasts / 6 Lunches / 7 Dinners • Hassan 2 Mosque Guided visit • Casablanca Guided tour • Meknes visit • Goat cheese tasting in chefchaouen • Lunch with family in Moulay Driss zerhoun • Volubilis entrance & guided visit • Guided tour of Fes • Visit of Choaura tanneries & Mederssa attarine • Food tasting trail in Fes • Visit Sefrou & Bhalil with lunch • Tea with a berber family in a cave • Dinner by the campfire in the Sahara desert • Visit Khamlia village

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• Visit Todra gorges & Dades • Visit the Kasbah of Ait benhadou • Evening foodie tour in Marrakech • Bahia palace entrance • Medina guided tour • Express cooking class at La maison arabe • Val d'argan visit , Lunch & wine tasting • Visit argan cooperative • Seafood port lunch in Essaouira

Excluded • International airport departure tax • Flights • Any visas required • Late check out at hotels • Meals and drinks not mentionedintheitinerary • Expenditure of personal nature • Personal Insurance • Tips • Optional activities

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Day 1: Hotel Diwan Casablanca, Casablanca

Casablanca Fondly known by locals simply as ‘Casa', the capital of Morocco is the industrial, economic and cultural heart of this remarkable country, as well as its most cosmopolitan, liberal and progressive city. While most visitors overlook Casablanca in favour of Morocco’s more popular and exotic tourist areas, this sprawling metropolis has plenty to offer the discerning traveller and has many hidden historical and cultural gems just waiting to be discovered. The city is famous for its spectacular Art Deco and Moorish Revival architecture, constructed during the Colonial Period. Explore the Old Medina, a tiny, ancient, walled village; visit the impressive King Hassan II Mosque; discover the ornate rooms, masterfully tiled floors and intricately carved wooden ceilings of the Hispanic-Moorish Mahkama du Pacha; or simply watch the world go by at one of the many ocean-view cafes along the waterfront boulevard.

Day Itinerary On arrival at Casablanca Airport, Our Guide & Driver will be waiting for you outside with an airport sign, as well as our private vehicle that will take you to your Hotel where you will start your amazing food adventure, after you are well settled in your hotel , there will be a welcome meeting and afterwards a dinner at lovely restaurant in Casablanca's city centre, you will try your first Moroccan Meal tonight.

Overnight: Hotel Diwan Casablanca Set the centre of Casablanca, Hotel Diwan Casablanca is a 5-minute walk from the Casa Port Train Station and 1.5 km away from the Hassan II Mosque. Guest rooms are air-conditioned and feature a TV and bathroom. Hotel amenities include a restaurant, a spa and a fitness centre. Guests are a short distance away from popular landmarks including the Sacré Coeur Cathedral, the Arab League Park, the Habbous District and the Twin Centre Shopping Centre.

Basis Room Only

Included • Included Group arrival transfer • Welcome dinner at a local restaurant

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Day 2: Riad El Yacout, Meknes

Meknes Situated in the heart of Morocco, the impressive imperial city of Meknes boasts a unique blend of Islamic and European architectural styles. It serves as an important economic hub within the Meknes Prefecture. It is the quieter neighbour of Fez with more of a laid-back-faded-grandeur feel. The city is surrounded by monumental walls and features ancient ornate gates, palatial buildings, and winding narrow medina streets. Meknes is set within a beautiful landscape of rich cedar forests, the Middle Atlas mountains and the rich oasis of Tafilalt. Visitors can look forward to exploring the remnants of the Imperial city including: the spectacular Bab el- Mansour, a large gate adorned with beautiful zellij mosaic tiling which crowns the entrance of the former Imperial city; the Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail, exhibiting magnificent courtyards and fountains; and the ruins of Heri es-Souani, a vast structure once used for stables and storage. Don’t miss the ancient marketplace and square of Pl el-Hedim.

Day Itinerary This morning Your trip starts with a rich delicious Moroccan breakfast in one of Casablanca's best and most iconic restaurants! enjoy all of the delicious flat bread that are available. Try baghir (dimpled and tangy), msemen (rich and chewy), harcha (spongy and best with jam or honey) and Sfenj (little rings of fried dough), Orange juice , tea or coffee , traditional Butter , olive oil , Amlou (mixture of argan oil in addition to almonds and honey) , honey, Goat cheese , olives , season's fruits , dried fruits, Khlii tajine ( preserved meat is cut into strips, marinated with cumin, coriander, and garlic, and then dried in the sun before it's cooked in a mixture of Butter & Eggs) in a great setting inside the café Maure of Casablanca's Iconic 18th century ramparts ( La sqala ) . After your yummy breakfast, visit the most impressive site in Casablanca – the Iconic edifice of the Mosque of Hassan II. Opened in 1993 after 7 Years on construction work of dozens of Moroccan architects and thousands of workers from all over the kingdom , this mosque has the tallest Minaret on the entire planet and is the 3rd largest Mosque in the world , the huge building is part of land and part on sea, and in one area water can be seen through a glass floor. It is one of the only religious sites open to non-Muslims, you will also enjoy a tour of Casablanca's Medina. Later, you will leave Casablanca and head to the wine capital of Morocco ! the ismaiili city of Meknes, one of the 4 imperial cities & the 6th Largest city in Morocco.! on the menu for lunch today a camel burger , after lunch you will have a walking tour around Meknes visit the beautiful Bab or gate: Bab Mansour. From here to the El Heri es-Souani former imperial granary and royal stables next to a pool fed by underground channels that brought fresh water all the way from the distant Middle Atlas Mountains; the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum and the Place el-Hedim ,

Overnight: Riad El Yacout Riad El Yacout was restored by Fassis expert craftsmen and is situated in the heart of the Medina. Accommodations include well appointed guest rooms and suites. The rooms are equipped with modern en suite bathroom facilities and WI-FI internet access. Guests can enjoy international and local cuisine that reflects the wealth and taste of Morocco, in the hotel’s onsite restaurant.

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Basis Bed and Breakfast

Included • Rich Moroccan breakfast in Sqala Café • Hassan 2 mosque Entrance & guided visit • Camel burger lunch in Meknes • Meknes guided visit

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Day 3: Puerta Azul, Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen Hidden high up in the Rif Mountains of northeastern Morocco, Chefchaouen is a relatively large historical town known for the striking, variously hued blue-washed buildings of its picturesque Medina. Visitors can look forward to wandering along narrow, cobblestone streets lined with leather and weaving workshops and an array of historical monuments. Must-see attractions include the town's waterfall which lies to the east of the Medina; the ruins of an old mosque on a hill behind the waterfall; and the shady main square of Uta el Hammam, which is home to the red- walled casbah, a 15th-century fortress and dungeon displaying ethnographic and art exhibits. This charming town also serves as an ideal base for travellers eager to explore the traditional villages and dramatic mountains of the spectacularly scenic surrounding area.

Day Itinerary Today after breakfast you will leave Meknes, and visit this beautiful Andalusian town of Chefchaouen you will arrive by Midday have a local Northern lunch after you check-in in your hotel ! you will meet your guide again and have a lovely tour around Its medina that has been lovingly cared for with striking blue and whitewashed houses and artistic doorways. Most of Chefchaouen was recreated by Andalusian refugees escaping the Reconquista, so you might feel like you're in the hills of Spain while exploring its streets, enjoy the sights in The main square with the Kasbah (built back in the 18th century), central mosque and cafes with authentic Moroccan style menus. The market is a mix of traditional Moroccan and tourist souvenirs, very busy but worth a visit. The town is easy to explore and the old Kasbah is worth a visit. Built by Moulay Ismail, it is now practically a ruin, and next to it is the Great Mosque. Although the medina is small, walk on to the main square and the souks, where women sell an array of local goods. If you head on to the Jewish quarter behind the jewelry souk, you will feel the difference between it and the main Arabic feel of the town. Enjoy local goat cheese that the women of chef make at home and sell in the market .

Overnight: Puerta Azul Puerta Azul is a bed and breakfast accommodation located in Chefchaouen, Morocco. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, hairdryer, a kettle and air conditioning. Guests are offered a complimentary breakfast every morning.

Basis Bed and Breakfast

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Included • Chefchaouen Guided tour • Goat cheese tasting chefchaouen • Lunch at a local restaurant

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Day 4: Zahrat Al Jabal, Fes

Fes Morocco’s second-largest city and the country’s former capital, Fes (Fez) is an exotic mix of Arabic architecture, ancient alleyways, calls to prayer and colourful markets; all mixed in with a good dose of modern culture. Home to the venerated Karaouine Mosque, which dates back to 859 AD and incorporates an Islamic university, and to the country’s most hallowed shrine, the Zaouia Moulay Idriss II; Fes is regarded as the spiritual seat of Morocco. Music lovers should try to synchronise their trips with the annual Festival of Sacred Music, one of the highlights of the city’s cultural calendar showcasing diverse performances of spiritual and religious music; while those with a penchant for shopping can browse the mesmerizing colourful markets selling an exquisite array of silver, leather and other handicrafts up for grabs.

Day Itinerary Today leave chefchaouen behind and head to The ruins of Volubilis that were once part of the Mauritanian capital of Volubilis, founded in the 3rd century B.C., This site became an important outpost of the Roman Empire and was graced with many fine buildings. Extensive remains of these survive in the archaeological site, located in a fertile agricultural area. although today all that remains are some ruins, the remaining structures and intricate mosaics have been preserved as a reminder of a city that once thrived. After exploring this Roman heritage head to the spiritual city of Fes and one morocco's imperial cities Via the religious Mausoleum of Moulay idriss ! An important pilgrimage site, the town has an interesting main square with shops selling incense, prayer beads and candles for the faithful, and the main street is full of restaurants and cafés for watching the passing parade, where you will have lunch with a local family in their home. You can visit the communal olive press and sample the local produce; this is best in November when the olives are harvested.arrive in the afternoon to fes.

Overnight: Zahrat Al Jabal Zahrat Al Jabal is located in the imperial city of Fes in Morocco. The hotel boasts 62 rooms and suites. The rooms are all equipped with a direct dial telephone, air conditioning, a safety deposit box, a television with satellite channels and a private bathroom. Other amenities include 2 restaurants and a coffee shop. The hotel also organizes guided tours of the surrounding sites in the city of Fes.

Basis Bed and Breakfast

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Included • Volubilis entrance & guided visit • Moulay idriss visit & homemade lunch with a local family

Day 5: Zahrat Al Jabal, Fes

Day Itinerary This morning, take a memorable guided group walking tour of the old city, known locally as Fes el Bali. You will live a 1001 night’s tale and Step back into the middle Ages in the labyrinth of the Medina, which is alive with local craftsmen, souks, traditional schools, tanneries and mosques. After walking around this mystical site you visit the Medersa Bou Inania founded in 1351 by a Merenid Sultan this Beautiful building is a living example of Merinid architecture, afterward visit the splendid Funduk Nejjarine, a charming 18th-century inn. You'll also see the notorious fes tannery! along the way & while touring inside the Medina you will get the chance to sample many Fessi ( from fes ) specialties from Pastilla , harira , snail soup to sweets from the region! the rest of the afternoon is at leisure!

Basis Bed and Breakfast

Included • Fes Guided tour • Mederssa attarine & tanneries • Souk Tasting Trail

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Day 6: Azawad Luxury Desert Camp, Merzouga

Merzouga Situated on the edge of the Sahara Desert, close to the Algerian border, the small Moroccan village of Merzouga serves as the gateway to the Erg Chebbi, an expanse of impressive dune fields. Merzouga is a Moroccan desert dream destination for visitors who come here to explore the sensational surrounding landscape. This remote village provides an excellent base for visitors to explore the Erg Chebbi, which stretches twenty-eight kilometres from north to south and seven kilometres across. The area offers a fantastic selection of activities including: taking a camel safari through the desert; watching a magical sunrise of sunset over the rolling dunes; immersing yourself in traditional Moroccan culture in the heart of the village on a village tour; or visiting the seasonal salt lake of Dayet Srji, home to an array of desert and migratory birds. Don’t miss the golden 150-metre-tall Grande Dune de Merzouga, known to be the tallest dune of the Erg Chebbi.

Day Itinerary Today you will leave Fez early this morning and head into the Middle Atlas Mountains. Our First stop will be the Bhalil Village, it’s set on the side of a hill 6 km northwest of Sefrou, the village of Bhalil , a quiet town and there are not too many tourists visiting this part of northern Morocco. We will meet our own local guide who will take you to his personal cave house and serve you mint tea , This small village is notable for its unique cave houses Bhalil is also known for its production of Jelleba Buttons. Village women can often be found in alleyways, chatting while they diligently work through hundreds of strings and buttons in the creation of traditional Jellaba, Our next stop will be Sefrou city, owing to its proximity to Fez city which only 28km, this small town has become increasingly popular and one of the most desirable destinations for people who seek serenity and relaxation. After lunch in Sefrou you will continue our journey on to the great desert of Morocco passing by Mountains, villages & fertile lands, you will have many stops for pictures or rest before you finally Arrive to the Merzouga desert ! you will leave your luggage at an auberge before riding a camel to the camp! you will have dinner by the campfire and enjoy some gnaoua music, your Room for tonight will be a Beautiful Bedouin-style tent.

Overnight: Azawad Luxury Desert Camp Azawad Luxury Desert Camp is a fashioned accommodation mixing modernity and authenticity accommodation in the desert of Merzouga, South-eastern Morocco. The accommodation offers different categories of rooms in the shape of nomadic tents, decorated with the finest Berber art crafted materials and furnished with bright, modern equipment. A dining tent-hall is also available as well as bathrooms in the camp.

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Basis Half Board - Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Included • visit to sefrou & bhalil • Lunch in Sefrou • tea with family in a cave • Camel Ride in the desert • Dinner with Nomads

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Day 7: Kasbah Dades Chems, Boumalne Dades

Boumalne Dades Boumalne Dades is located in southeast Morocco’s Tinghur Province, at 1500 metres above sea level in the High Atlas Mountains. It is a spellbinding destination - a city of terracotta buildings set between rugged red cliffs, palm oases and fields of crimson wildflowers. The city’s scenic beauty is matched by its cultural intrigue - it has a rich heritage that includes its traditional art, music and adobe architecture - some of which has remained virtually intact over several centuries. A hiking trail leads between the Dades Gorge and the Rose Valley and is a wonderful way to experience the area’s ancient palaces and forts, Berber villages and spectacular scenery.

Day Itinerary This morning hop on the back of your favourite ride of this journey and watch what well may be the best sunrise of your life on the way to the village of Merzouga. Enroute you couldn’t fail to appreciate the unique beauty of the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes - changing with the light as the day progresses. After breakfast in the Riad, you’ll leave for Khamlia which is a small village in southern Merzouga ,The Khamlia’s Gnawa originated in black Africa having a close and long-standing relationship with the desert. Their ancestors were brought from central and west Africa as slaves, through the Sahara Desert in caravans that arrived to the southeastern part of Morocco. After their emancipation from slavery, they survived as nomads moving regularly in search of favorable land for their herds. Around the 50s and 60s they started to settle down with the Berber nomads in towns or in the growing urban areas. That is the way Khamlia was founded. Since then the main sources of income are agriculture, livestock farming and lately also tourism. You will have tea and enjoy some live Gnawa music with very hospitable and kind people,Afterwards you will depart to the gorges of Todra the highest, narrowest gorges in Morocco. Here you will have the option to hike for an hour within the valley, where you will meet locals and learn about the culture and geography. After lunch in the heart of the gorge, you will continue to the Dades Valley, where you’ll see the majestic sandcastles and the amazing rocks formations. You will spend tonight at a local cosy hotel.

Overnight: Kasbah Dades Chems Kasbah Dades Chems is a typical hotel in the centre of Boumalne Dades, the crossroads of Kasbah. The hotel has an exceptional panoramic view, with beautiful views of the gardens along the Oued du Dades. Guests can enjoy dining at the hotel restaurant which has a traditional Moroccan style. The hotel also features a large swimming pool.

Basis Half Board - Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

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Included • Visit , Tea & Gnawa live show at Khamlia village • Todgha & Dades Gorges walking tour • Dinner at the hotel

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Day 8: Dar Mouna, Ait Ben Haddou

Ait Ben Haddou Set along the former caravan route between Marrakech and the Sahara, Ait Benhaddou is a popular tourist destination in the Ouarzazate province. This ancient Moroccan village is a traditional mud-brick city edging the High Atlas Mountains. It has featured in many Hollywood movies including Lawrence of Arabia, Jesus of Nazareth, Jewel of the Nile, Gladiator and thanks to the Hollywood touch ups through the years, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is well preserved. It is a ‘ksar’ which means fortified village and served as a convenient stopover for hundreds of caravans of camels following the renowned trans-Saharan trade route. Visitors can wander the ancient alleyways, view the traditional architecture, and visit the Granary perched at the top of the hill. Don’t miss the opportunity to view the Mausoleum of Ben-Haddoun at the foot of the hill on the opposite side of town and soak up the breathtaking views.

Day Itinerary After breakfast, you have a full day to explore the beauty of this untouched Moroccan Village but first, you will watch local women make fresh Berber bread cooked clay ovens with raised platforms for baking, you will enjoy a delicious organic breakfast! afterwards leave Dades & continue your journey towards aitbenhadou via Skoura, commonly known as the Road of One Thousand Kasbahs Skoura. Here, in this quiet safe haven garnished with palm tree groves, you will find one kasbah that stands out from the rest. The Kasbah Amridil, 400 years old beautiful buildings, and one of Morocco’s most iconic living museums, our final stop of the day will be the amazing Kasbah of Aitbenhadou where you will spend the night Perched on a hilltop and almost unchanged since the 11th century, Ait Benhaddou is one of Morocco's most iconic sites. Its grant kasbah is one of the most beautiful in Morocco and the fortified village is a fine example of clay architecture.you will probably recognise the site, as the town has a long list of film and TV credits, including Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones and Gladiator. Tonight enjoy a delicious included dinner and the magnificent views from your beautiful Riad.

Overnight: Dar Mouna Dar Mouna is located on a UNESCO world heritage site in the village of Ait Benhaddou and offers panoramic views of the village and river. Four types of room are available, including, a living room, family room, pool view room, and a kasbah view room. The in-house restaurant serves a variety of traditional Moroccan dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Dar Mouna is the perfect location from which to explore an area used as a set for a variety of classic movies and television series.

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Basis Half Board - Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Included • Bread making demonstration • Ait Benhaddou & Kasbah skoura visit • Dinner in the hotel

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Day 9: Riad & Spa Challa, Marrakesh

Marrakesh Situated to the north of the foothills of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains and fringing the famed Sahara, the bustling UNESCO-listed city of Marrakesh is an enchanting travel destination in Morocco. It’s easy to lose all sense of time in Marrakech, with its maze of narrow alleyways scattered with donkey carts, snake charmers, castanetists, acrobats, story-tellers, dancers, water-sellers and potion vendors to entertain. If you don’t find all of these as you journey through the winding streets of the ‘Red City’, you will be sure to find them and much, much more at its famous markets. Marrakesh is home to the largest traditional Berber market in Morocco and one of the busiest squares in the world, known as Djemaa el Fna. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this square in the evening as it transforms into an enormous, open-air restaurant.

Day Itinerary Today take the tiz'n tichka windy road pass towards the city of Marrakech a colorful melting pot where European modernity meets ancient vibes. you will go to your riad to have some rest then later on gather to enjoy a food tasting medina tour later on this time with Marrakechi food you will learn about culinary habits , history , culture and get to taste sample of Moroccan food as you go behind the scenes of the markets with a local guide who will provide an insight into Moroccan specialities at hidden stalls in the medina from stops to degustate fresh olives, to stops by a neighbourhood oven ( bakery where locals cook their bread ) to taste some freshly cooked bread , then sit in a local café to try mssemen ( Moroccan pankcakes) & sfenj ( Moroccan donuts) all with a sweet cup of mint tea , afterwards you will head to the stalls to have a delicious roasted lamb and local famous dish known as Tanjia , before having a very special spicy herbal tea known as khoudenjal!

Overnight: Riad & Spa Challa Riad & Spa Challa is located in the Old Medina and a few minutes walk to Djemaa El Fana in Marrakech, Morocco. Accommodation options include the double room, twin rooms, triple rooms, quadruple room and family rooms. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom with shower, air conditioning, heating and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Other amenities offered are a spa, a swimming pool and a restaurant.

Basis Bed and Breakfast

Included • Evening Magical foodie tour

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Day 10: Riad & Spa Challa, Marrakesh

Day Itinerary After breakfast, you will have a magnificent guided Visit of the Medina starting from Koutoubia Mosque and its notorious Minaret to the Bahia palace via the royal palace and jewish quarter or Marrakech , the Bahia palace built in the late 19th century, intended to be one of the greatest palaces of its time and to capture the essence of the Islamic and Moroccan style, afterwards walk through the narrow streets of the Medina through souks and spice Markets where women sell many organic goodies from Organic make up products to handmade jewellery and hats , you might want to shop a few souvenirs once you arrive at the Rahba square , continue on to the elegant restaurant of La maison Arabe where you will have an express 1 hour cooking class and get to savour your creation.! the rest of your afternoon and evening in Morocco is at leisure ! so you might want to gather with the rest of your group and head to the new town for drinks or dinner

Basis Bed and Breakfast

Included • La Maison Arabe express cooking class • Bahia palace entrance • Spice market visit • Medina guided tour

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Day 11: Palais Des Remparts, Essaouira

Essaouira Favourably situated on a vast sweeping bay on the southwest coast of Morocco with long stretches of glorious, golden-sand beaches, the historical town of Essaouira is one of the country’s premier tourist attractions. The town is set against a picturesque backdrop of lush, wooded hills and a patchwork of small fields which become covered in a kaleidoscope of colourful wildflowers in springtime. Known for its bustling fishing harbour dotted quaint white and blue houses and its lovely, souk-filled medina, there is plenty to keep you blissfully engaged in this popular seaside town. The strong Atlantic wind provides perfect conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. With good winds for most days of the year, Essaouira is a watersport enthusiasts paradise. Despite its popularity, the town has managed to retain its old-world charm and is an ideal place to embrace the laid-back lifestyle of the locals and escape the hustle and bustle of city life in a remarkably beautiful setting.

Day Itinerary This morning, bid farewell to Marrakech and head to the charming coastal city and a gem in the Atlantic, your driver will pick you up at 09 am, to visit an Argan cooperative ,where Berber women make this special exclusively made in Morocco oil Known for centuries by the Berber tribes for its gastronomic and cosmetic properties, Argan oil is produced by female-owned cooperatives in the Souss Massa deraa region , afterward on your way to essaouira visit a 52 hectare vineyard where many plants grow such as the Rhone Grape varieties: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre and Marselan for the reds complemented by a touch of balck Muscat, Clairette, Bourboulenc, Ugni Blanc, Viognier, Grenache Blanc and muscat with small grains of beaumes-de-venise for the white grape varieties. The Cellar has a traditional cuverie and an efficient system of thermoregulation which allows us to vinify each wine at the optimum temperature., you will get the taste 3 types of wine and a local lunch, straight after lunch you will be in Essaouira , check in your riad you can chose to relax by the beach , maybe ride a horse or just walk through the narrow streets of Essaouira's Medina which are full of colors and surprises

Overnight: Palais Des Remparts Palais Des Remparts is located between the ramparts of the Old Medina in Essaouira, Morocco. It is also in close proximity to interesting site attractions including the Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum and Skala de la Ville. The property features 14 standard rooms, 4 deluxe rooms and 5 suites. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom, a telephone, an LCD TV with satellite channels and free internet access. Other amenities offered are a rooftop terrace, a restaurant and a spa offering a hammam, massage services and oriental beauty treatments.

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Basis Bed and Breakfast

Included • Val d'argan Lunch & wine tasting

Day 12: Palais Des Remparts, Essaouira

Day Itinerary This morning is totally free for you to explore Essaouira further , maybe shop for some thuya wood gifts and beautiful handicrafts or indulge in a relaxing Moroccan Hammam! by lunchtime, your tour leader will take you to the port of Essaouira to get some fresh seafood and have it grilled in the Market! afternoon is at leisure .

Basis Bed and Breakfast

Included • Essaouira seafood market lunch

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Day 13: Hotel Diwan Casablanca, Casablanca

Casablanca As previously described

Day Itinerary This morning your driver will pick you up ! to get you back to Casablanca ! the day is free for you to explore Casa further ! in the evening there will be a farewell dinner with the rest of the group !

Basis Bed and Breakfast

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Day 14: End of Itinerary

Day Itinerary Your exciting Morocco adventure ends today after breakfast. Check-out time is usually around midday and you are free to leave at any time!

Basis Bed and Breakfast

Included • Departure transfer to Marrakech airport

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Transport

Transfers Pick Up Drop Off Time Vehicle

Mohammed V International Airport Hotel Diwan Casablanca Transfer [CMN]

Hotel Diwan Casablanca Riad El Yacout Transfer

Riad El Yacout Puerta Azul Transfer

Puerta Azul Zahrat Al Jabal Transfer

Zahrat Al Jabal Azawad Luxury Desert Camp Transfer

Azawad Luxury Desert Camp Kasbah Dades Chems Transfer

Kasbah Dades Chems Dar Mouna Transfer

Dar Mouna Riad & Spa Challa Transfer

Riad & Spa Challa Palais Des Remparts Transfer

Palais Des Remparts Hotel Diwan Casablanca Transfer

Hotel Diwan Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport Transfer [CMN]

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Travel Information

An exotic fusion of Southern Mediterranean, Arabic and African influences, Morocco is an enticing combination of ancient cities and Roman ruins, sweeping deserts and centuries-old medinas, mosques and minarets, winding alleyways and vibrant markets, gorgeous beaches and rugged mountains. The Imperial Cities of Fes, Marrakech, Meknes and Rabat have all had a stint as the national capital and are liberally studded with attractions, including a plethora of ancient architecture, museums and souks (markets). The coastal city of Casablanca boasts one of the largest mosques in the world, while Tangier, on the Mediterranean coast, features some beautiful bays and sandy coves. Visitors can look forward to sampling exotic Berber cuisine, sipping on a fresh cup of coffee or a mint tea at a streetside cafe, hike Toubkal - North Africa’s highest peak or enjoy camel trekking in the desert.

Banking and Currency Currency

Moroccan Dirham (MAD; symbol Dh) = 100 centimes. Notes are in denominations of Dh200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of Dh10, 5 and 1, and 50, 20, 10 and 5 centimes.

Banking

Mon-Thurs 0830-1230 and 1500-1830, Fri 0830-1200 and 1500-1830.

Most major credit cards are accepted in larger restaurants, hotels, guest houses and the occasional shop in the souks, with Visa and MasterCard being accepted most widely.

Cash can be withdrawn from ATMs in larger towns, although service in smaller towns can be erratic. Most major hotels now have more reliable ATMs.

Traveller's cheques are accepted in some areas but are not advised, as the exchange can be problematic and it can be difficult to find a bank able to cash them, although some of the main tourist hotels offer this facility.

Travel, Transport and Getting Around The high-speed toll roads connecting Tangier, Rabat, Casablanca, Meknes, Fes, Marrakech and El Jadida are of excellent quality. Coastal communities and most large towns are also well served by good roads. In the interior, south of the High Atlas Mountains, road travel becomes much more difficult, especially across the Atlas Mountains in winter.

International and local car hire companies have offices in major towns, cities and airports. Car hire is generally expensive, and prices vary with the season. The minimum age for driving a hired car is 18, although many hire companies will require drivers to be 21 or over.

Metered petit taxis are available in major towns. Taxi drivers are not usually tipped, although it is common to round fares up at least to the next dirham on short trips. Larger, grand taxis are usually Mercedes cars, used for travel

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Bike hire is available in most major towns - although attempting to cycle through city traffic is inadvisable. For those travelling longer distances, bikes can be transported on trains and buses.

Making use of the extensive bus network is the cheapest and most popular way to get around Morocco. Buses serve most communities, and private operators compete for custom on the more popular routes. The major bus companies are Compagnie de Transports Marocains (www.ctm.ma), Trans Ghazala (0536 685 387), and ONCF (www.oncf.ma). There are extensive bus services in Casablanca and other main towns. Pre-purchase tickets are sold.

Traffic drives on the right in Morocco and the wearing of seatbelts is compulsory. The speed limit is 40kph (25mph) in cities and built up areas, rising to 80km (50mph) on more major roads, up to 120km (75mph) on motorways. No alcohol at all is allowed in the bloodstream when driving.

Foreign driving licences are accepted, as well as International Driving Permits. Third Party insurance is required. Insurance documentation and a licence must be carried with you at all times. Insurance can be arranged locally.

The Moroccan rail system, run by Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF) (www.oncf.ma) provides regular services. The network runs from Oujda in the northeast to Casablanca on the west coast, Tangier on the north coast and Fes and Marrakech in the interior. However, only a small part of the country is served, and even large centres such as Agadir and Essaouira are not covered.

Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice Water sources outside main cities and towns may be contaminated and sterilisation is advisable. Bottled water is the best bet and is available everywhere. Milk is unpasteurised, so boil before drinking. Meat and fish should be freshly cooked and served hot. Vegetables are typically served cooked. If eating fruit, try to stick to fruit that can be peeled before eating. Most produce is grown organically, without chemical pesticides or fertilisers but it’s highly likely to have been washed in unsterilized water.

Fusion isn't a new trend in Morocco, where the cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean, Arabic, Jewish, Persian, West African and Berber influences. Meals range from the diffa, an elaborate multicourse feast featuring couscous and grilled meats, to quick brochettes (kebab) from a roadside stall. Produce is seasonal, grown locally and typically without chemical pesticides or fertilisers.

Tagines, the fragrant stews of meat, vegetables or fish, named after the distinctive conical earthenware vessel they’re cooked in are the Moroccans main staple. Flavours revolve around a subtle array of spices, and traditionally every spice shop would have its own secret ras el hanout spice blend recipe.

Restaurants range from buffet diners to high-end establishment serving gourmet fare. Many now offer à la carte menus and a three-course fixed-price menu is still common at dinner. Restaurants in cities and large resorts are cosmopolitan, offering a good selection of cuisines, including typical Moroccan fare, plus French, Italian, Spanish and fusion dishes.

The best way to experience the true flavour of Moroccan cuisine, however, is to sample the street food. Djemaa el Fna square in the centre of Marrakech sees an explosion of pop-up food stalls after dark, and most other cities have their own foodie quarters. Scrumptious local specialities such as almonds, olives and a rainbow array of spices can be found in souks across the country.

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Laws on alcohol are fairly liberal (for non-Muslim visitors) and bars in most tourist areas stay open late. Wines, beers and spirits are available to tourists. Muslims are forbidden to drink alcohol. By law, no-one is allowed to drink alcohol in view of a mosque or during Ramadan, although tourist establishments sometimes flout this rule. Locally produced wines, beers and mineral waters are reasonably priced, but imported drinks tend to be expensive.

Tipping waiting staff is expected (if service is satisfactory), usually up to 5 dirams on small bills, and around 10% for larger bills.

Climate and Weather Morocco’s climate is very diverse, varying with the season and region. In general the country has a tropical climate, with temperatures reaching as high as 35°C (95°F) and as low as 5°C (41°F) in the Sahara. The coast has a warm, Mediterranean climate tempered on the eastern coast by southwest trade winds whilst inland areas have a hotter, drier, continental climate. In the south of the country, the weather is very hot and dry throughout most of the year, though temperatures can drop dramatically at night, especially in the months of December and January.

Rain falls from November to March in coastal areas, and the country is mostly dry with high temperatures in summer and a cooler climate in the mountains. Marrakech and Agadir enjoy an average temperature of 21°C (70ºF) during the winter.

Owing to the relatively high winter temperatures, and summers that are dry rather than unbearably humid, Morocco is an all-year round destination. If you really want to avoid the heat, the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of April to May, and September to November.

Clothing and Dress Recommendations Lightweight cottons and linens are best worn during summer, with warm medium weight wear for the evenings, during the winter, and in the mountains. Waterproofing is advisable in the wet season, particularly on the coast and in the mountains. Both men and women should be careful to wear clothing that is cognisant of cultural sensitivities – long sleeves and low hems will be looked on favourably. Sunscreen, a sunhat and sunglasses are essential especially in summer.

Electricity and Plug Standards Electrical sockets (outlets) in Morocco are one of the two European standard electrical socket types: The "Type C" Europlug and the "Type E" and "Type F" Schuko. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it's crucial to be able to plug in no matter what, bring an adapter for all three types.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in the Kingdom of Morocco usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.

But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the adapter will still be the same 220-240 volts the socket is supplying. North American sockets supply electricity at between 110 and 120 volts, far lower than in most of the rest of the world. Consequently, North American appliances are generally built for 110- 120 volts.

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Terms and Conditions

Itinerary Terms and Conditions Upon confirmation, you are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of 30% of the booking total with the remaining balance due 45 days before the trip starts.

The availability of all services is guaranteed upon confirmation of reservation.