Exploring the Heart of Fès – A Journey Through Time
Morning Highlights:
- Visit the Royal Palace, the Jewish Cemetery and Synagogue, and explore the Mellah (Jewish Quarter).
- Stop by Borj Sud for a panoramic view of the city.
- Head to the pottery district for an engaging pottery class with local artisans.
Midday Market Experience:
- Begin exploring the vibrant market at Rcif, the local grocery shopping area.
- Stop at Seffarine Square, known for its metalwork artisans.
- Visit the iconic Chouara Tannery for a glimpse into Morocco’s ancient leathercraft tradition.
Historical Sites:
- Discover the Attarine Madrasa and the prestigious University of Al Quaraouiyine, one of the oldest universities in the world.
- Visit the Moulay Idriss Zaouia, a revered shrine.
- Stop at the Nejjarine Museum to explore traditional woodwork and Moroccan carpentry.
Late Afternoon:
- Capture another stunning view from Borj Nord.
- End the day with visits to the Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud) and the impressive Bou Inania Madrasa
Excursion to Volubilis and Meknès – Tracing Ancient and Imperial Roots
Morning Departure: Head to Volubilis, the impressive Roman ruins dating back to 200 BC, and explore the site with its ancient mosaics, temples, and arches.
Moulay Idriss Village: Visit the charming village of Moulay Idriss, where Islam was first introduced to Morocco.
Discover Meknès:
- Stop at the grand entrance, Bab Mansour, a magnificent example of Moroccan architecture.
- Visit the Royal Granaries and Stables of Moulay Ismael, designed to store vast reserves of grain.
- Drive to the Sahrij Souani Reservoir, a beautiful artificial lake built to supply the city.
Local Experience at Place El Hedim: Stroll through the El Hedim Square and its local market, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Late Afternoon Return: Drive back to Fès (approximately 1 hour).
Day 4: Journey Through the Middle Atlas to Erfoud – Gateway to the Desert
Early Morning Departure: Begin your scenic drive southward.
Stop in Ifrane: Known as the "Switzerland of Morocco," enjoy the unique alpine architecture and refreshing atmosphere.
Cedar Forest: Pause in the cedar forests to see the Barbary macaque monkeys in their natural habitat.
Lunch in Midelt: Enjoy a break in Midelt, a town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas mountains.
Ascend the Middle Atlas: Take in the changing landscapes as you climb the mountain passes.
Ziz Gorges: Stop for breathtaking views of the Ziz River Gorges, a stunning canyon carved into the rugged terrain.
Drive Along the Palmeraie: Follow the lush oasis of palm groves as you approach Erfoud.
Overnight Stay in Erfoud: Settle into your luxurious accommodations in Erfoud, the gateway to the Sahara.
Into the Sahara – Oasis Exploration and Desert Adventure
Morning at Leisure: Begin the day with a relaxed exploration of the oasis surrounding Erfoud.
Discover Rissani:
- Visit the vibrant local market and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of traditional Moroccan trade.
- Explore the historic Kasbah and admire its distinctive architecture.
Fossilized Marble Quarries: Tour the fascinating quarries where ancient fossils are embedded in marble, unique to this region.
Journey to Merzouga:
- Travel to Merzouga, the gateway to the towering sand dunes of the Sahara.
- Sunset in the Dunes: Arrive by 4x4 vehicle and watch the sun set over the breathtaking dunes.
- Luxury Desert Camp: Settle in for an unforgettable night under the stars in a private tent.
- Dinner in the Dunes: Enjoy an exquisite dinner amidst the dunes, complete with a champagne toast as you savor the serene beauty of the desert night.
Sunrise in the Sahara and Journey to Skoura – Gorges and Valleys
Early Morning: Begin with an early wake-up to experience the magical sunrise over the dunes.
Breakfast in the Camp: Savor breakfast before departing the desert.
Departure to Skoura:
- First Stop in Tinjédad: Pause in Tinjédad, a charming town offering a glimpse of local life.
- Todgha Gorges: Continue to the dramatic Todgha Gorges to explore the impressive canyon with towering rock walls.
- Dades Gorges: Visit the Dades Gorges for more stunning geological formations and breathtaking views.
- Rose Valley: Pass through the picturesque Valley of Roses, famous for its rose cultivation and quaint Berber villages.
Arrival in Skoura:
- Reach Skoura by late afternoon and enjoy an overnight stay in a luxurious kasbah-style retreat, surrounded by the palm groves of this beautiful oasis.
From Skoura to Marrakech – The Gateway to the South
Morning Departure to Ouarzazate:
- Kasbah Taourirt: Explore the historic Kasbah Taourirt, once a residence of the powerful Glaoui family.
- Movie Studios: Visit one of Ouarzazate’s famous movie studios, where many iconic films were shot.
Aït Benhaddou:
- Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aït Benhaddou, a breathtaking fortified village and ancient ksar with impressive mud-brick architecture.
Drive Through the Tizi n'Tichka Pass:
- Journey across the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, navigating dramatic hairpin turns and marveling at the panoramic mountain views.
Arrival in Marrakech:
- Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon or early evening and settle into your luxurious accommodations.
The Gardens of Marrakech – A Day of Art, Nature, and Culture
Morning:
- Majorelle Garden: Begin the day with a visit to the iconic Majorelle Garden, an oasis of exotic plants and vibrant colors.
- Yves Saint Laurent Museum: Explore the adjacent museum dedicated to the life and work of Yves Saint Laurent, featuring his designs and a beautiful collection of Moroccan art.
Afternoon:
- Cactus Thiemann: Visit the Cactus Thiemann garden, home to North Africa’s largest collection of cacti, with species from around the world.
- Farid Belkahia Museum: Discover the Farid Belkahia Museum, showcasing the works of one of Morocco’s most influential contemporary artists.
- Museum of Water Civilization (Musée de l’Eau): End the day with a visit to this museum that delves into the history and significance of water management and civilization in Morocco.
Return to your accommodation in Marrakech for a relaxing evening.
Cultural Exploration and Spa Retreat in Marrakech
Morning:
- Dar El Bacha: Begin the day by visiting Dar El Bacha, a splendid palace showcasing traditional Moroccan design and art.
- Dar El Bacha Coffee House: Take a moment to enjoy a coffee at the elegant Dar El Bacha Café.
- Le Jardin Secret: Stroll through Le Jardin Secret in the medina, a serene spot with lush gardens and stunning architecture.
- Jemaa el-Fna Square: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fna, the heart of Marrakech’s culture.
- Koutoubia Mosque: Pause to admire the grand Koutoubia Mosque with its distinctive minaret.
Afternoon:
- MACAAL (Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden): Begin the afternoon with a visit to MACAAL, where you can explore exceptional African contemporary art collections.
- MAP (Musée d'Art et de Parure): Continue to the MAP Museum in the Kasbah, dedicated to African jewelry and adornment, offering a deep dive into the art of African craftsmanship.
Evening Spa Experience:
- Return to your hotel for a luxurious hammam and massage session, ending the day with relaxation and pampering.
Day 10: Atlas Mountains Adventure and Berber Culture Experience
Morning Departure to the Atlas Mountains:
- Set out in the morning with a mountain guide for a journey into the stunning landscapes of the Atlas Mountains.
- Berber Village Visit: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Berber people, learning about their traditions and daily life.
Lunch:
- Enjoy a traditional Berber lunch in a local family’s home, offering a unique taste of authentic mountain hospitality.
Afternoon Return with Visit to Anima Garden:
- On the way back to Marrakech, stop by the enchanting Anima Garden. Designed by artist André Heller, this imaginative garden combines natural beauty with artistic installations, creating a magical experience.
Departure Day – Transfer to Airport
- Morning: After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel or take a last stroll through Marrakech, savoring the final moments of your Moroccan journey.
- Airport Transfer: A private transfer will take you to the airport of your choice (Marrakech or Casablanca) for your departure.
This marks the end of an unforgettable luxury adventure through Morocco, filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, and exquisite experiences. Safe travels!
