
Moroccan Essence
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From AUD 13,450 for two on twin sharing basis
Trip Code
WT-CODE 1160
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Nestled along the Atlantic coast, this bustling metropolis is Morocco’s largest city, renowned for its eclectic blend of tradition and progress. Boasting a skyline adorned with towering minarets and contemporary skyscrapers, Casablanca seamlessly intertwines its ancient Medina and historic landmarks with a burgeoning business district. The iconic Hassan II Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic art, dominates the skyline and reflects Morocco’s spiritual heritage. It is a city that resonates with echoes of its cinematic namesake, invites exploration and discovery in a tapestry of history, culture, and modern allure.
Arrival at Casablanca Mohammed V International airport. Upon arrival, once you clear your immigration & collect your baggage, please proceed to the arrival hall to meet your personal escort.
Transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight Stay: hotel in Casablanca
After breakfast proceed for a visit to one of the wonders of Morocco; the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It is a stunning architectural marvel perched on the Atlantic coast. Completed in 1993, it boasts the world’s tallest minaret. The mosque’s intricate details and craftsmanship showcase a harmonious blend of traditional Moroccan design and modern engineering. Overlooking the ocean, the mosque is a symbol of cultural pride, welcoming visitors with its grandeur and spiritual significance. After the visit proceed to Rabat.
Rabat, the capital city of Morocco, is a vibrant metropolis nestled along the Atlantic Ocean and the Bouregreg River. Renowned for its rich historical and cultural tapestry, the city seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. The city is characterized by its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of the Udayas and the Hassan Tower, a towering minaret dating back to the 12th century. Rabat’s medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a labyrinthine maze of narrow streets lined with bustling markets and artisan workshops, providing visitors with a glimpse into the city’s authentic daily life.
After lunch, proceed for a visit to the Mausoleum of King Hassan II; the final resting place of King Hassan II. Completed in 2014, the mausoleum is an architectural marvel, blending traditional and modern elements. Its grandeur reflects the importance of the late king and serves as a symbol of Moroccan history and culture. Enjoy a stroll through the Kasbah of Udayas, a historic fortress and residential area. Dating back to the 12th century, its narrow alleys, white-washed buildings, and Andalusian gardens create a picturesque setting. The Kasbah offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
After the visit transfer to the hotel. Rest of the evening at leisure.
Overnight Stay: Hotel or Riad (a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard) in Rabat.
After breakfast, depart for Chefchaouen; nestled in the Rif Mountains of northwest Morocco, Chefchaouen is a captivating town renowned for its enchanting, blue-washed buildings. The narrow, winding streets of the medina create a serene, otherworldly atmosphere. The blue palette, believed to symbolize the sky and heaven, contrasts with vibrant splashes of greenery. This picturesque town offers a harmonious blend of Berber, Arab, and Andalusian influences. Beyond its aesthetic charm, Chefchaouen is a gateway to stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and a welcoming local culture, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquillity and cultural immersion in Morocco.
Transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight Stay: Hotel or Riad in Chefchaouen.
On the second day in Chefchaouen, explore the Riff region and the delights of its landscapes. The faint light of dawn over Akchour waterfalls or the “God’s Bridge” will allow you to discover breath-taking scenery and provide a good spot for photographs.
The best way to visit Chefchaouen is to let yourself be lost in its streets and watch life happen. The visit of Chefchaouen, includes the view of the city from the top of a mountain, the washerwomen area near the river and the central square where there is a castle and a mosque with the only octagonal minaret.
Overnight Stay: Hotel or Riad in Chefchaouen.
After breakfast, depart for Fes; enroute visit Meknes; one of the imperial cities of Morocco that boasts a rich history and unique charm. Surrounded by impressive walls, it features well-preserved historical sites like the Bab Mansour gate and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Meknes showcases a blend of Arab and European influences, making it a captivating destination for cultural exploration.
After lunch in Meknes, stop at Volubilis, an ancient Roman city with well-preserved ruins. UNESCO-listed, it showcases grand arches, intricate mosaics, and remnants of a once-thriving civilization, providing a glimpse into Roman colonial life. Continue your journey towards Fes.
Fes: Oldest imperial cities is a captivating blend of medieval and modern elements. Its UNESCO listed medina, Fes El-Bali, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling souks, and architectural wonders like the Bou Inania Madrasa. Fes El-Jdid offers historic sites like the Royal Palace. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Fes is a mosaic of vibrant traditions, intricate craftsmanship, and the spiritual ambiance.
Transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight Stay: Hotel or Riad in Fes.
After breakfast proceed for a tour of the Medina where you will visit the many hidden treasures known only to the locals. Fes was the capital of Morocco for over 350 years and is home to the University of Al Karaouine, the oldest university in the world.
Your guided tour takes you to the Moulay Idriss mausoleum, the Nejjarine Fountains and the Tanneries. After lunch, you can also see the exterior of the Royal Palace and walk through the famous Jewish quarter “Mellah”, where you will have the chance to visit one of the few living synagogues in Morocco.
Your tour of Fes also includes a short visit to the famous ceramics factory, and also enjoy a panoramic view of the entire Fez medina.
Later transfer to the hotel.
Overnight Stay: Hotel or Riad in Fes.
After breakfast, proceed to southeast along the caravan route to Merzouga. In the morning visit the magical cedar forests of Azrou, where you will be dazzled by its spectacular native nature. The atmosphere is calm, clear, and rich in the scents of nature.
During your journey, make a brief stopover in Midelt for lunch, a small town located between the High and Middle Atlas Mountains, an exceptional place to observe the exuberant mountain scenery.
After lunch, set out to cross the immense, fertile Ziz Valley, one of the world’s largest oases in the world. Continue through the great open high desert and notice how the landscape changes to reveal desert notes as you approach the town of Errachidia. This area is also the foundation of the Alaouite dynasty – Morocco’s current royal family.
Late afternoon arrive in Merzouga, a village in the Sahara Desert. It is renowned for its mesmerizing sand dunes, including the famous Erg Chebbi. Merzouga offers a unique experience of camel trekking through the golden sands to witness breath-taking desert sunsets and sunrises. The village offers a glimpse into Berber culture, and the hospitality of the local people, combined with the serene desert landscape, creates an unforgettable and tranquil desert adventure.
Transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight Stay: Hotel or Riad in Merzouga.
After breakfast, embark on a tour of the region. Visit the Gnawa people – originally slaves brought from Sudan – and experience their music and way of life. Not far away, there’s the Merzouga lake, known for its diversity of birds. You can also visit the Souk of Rissani and Tafilalte, a traditional town that is the origin of the ruling family in Morocco and the meeting place of the Caravans coming from Timbuktu in Mali.
Return back to the village of Merzouga for a rest. In the afternoon experience an exciting camel ride; guided by an experienced camel guide; to explore the Merzouga Sand dunes.
Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at your luxury desert camp in Merzouga, where you will have dinner. For your convenience, the camp is equipped with private tents and bathrooms.
Overnight Stay: Camp in a private Tent at Merzouga
Early in the morning, your camel guide will wake you up to watch what may be one of the best sunrise experiences. After breakfast at camp, walk to the village of Merzouga. Enroute, appreciate the unique and spectacular beauty of the sand dunes of “Chebbi” – as the day’s light changes.
Later, drive to Tinghir, and the Todra Canyon – the highest and narrowest canyon in Morocco.
After lunch in the heart of the canyon drive through the Dadès Canyon, explore the majestic sandcastles and astonishing rock formations known as “monkey toes”.
Transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Dadès Canyon.
After breakfast embark on the journey to “Route of Thousands of Kasbahs” to Kalaat Mgouna – City of Roses. Also visit the traditional villages of Skoura. A Kashbah is an ancient form of castle.
Later proceed to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou, which are two places of great historical and cultural relief in the Atlas Mountains. It takes you back in time, experience the landscape and the lives of those who devoted themselves to trade.
Ait Benhaddou is considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is the most important point on the “Route of Thousands of Kasbahs”, a road of small fortifications that defended trade caravans on their way between the Sahara Desert and the city of Marrakech. It is still inhabited today and has been used as a backdrop for films such as “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones”, among many others, to keep its identity and charisma intact.
In Ouarzazate, explore the ancient city walls, the fortifications of Kasbah Taouirt and the Palace of Pacha Glaoui.
Transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Marrakesh.
Marrakesh, the jewel of Morocco, is a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, and aromas. Its historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, enchants with bustling souks, ornate palaces like the Bahia and El Badi, and the iconic Koutoubia Mosque. Jardin Majorelle provides respite with its exotic gardens. The lively Djemaa el-Fna square is a sensory delight, alive with storytellers, musicians, and street vendors. The city seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern luxury, offering a captivating experience that resonates with the enchantment of its ancient walls and the warmth of Moroccan hospitality.
After breakfast, embark on your first day of Marrakesh tour. Visit the Yves Saint Laurent Museum that tribute to the iconic fashion designer’s legacy, housing a collection of his couture creations and sketches.
Adjacent to the museum is the enchanting Majorelle Garden, designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé.
Followed by Majorelle gardens, visit the Menara Gardens, a serene escape with a large reflecting pool and surrounding olive groves. Dating back to the 12th century, the gardens offer a tranquil setting for relaxation and a stunning view of the distant Atlas peaks, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Also drive through the chic quartiers of New Marrakech i.e. Hivernage & Gueliz.
Later transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight Stay: Hotel or Riad in Marrakesh.
After breakfast, embark on your second day of Marrakesh tour. Discover the old Marrakech and its nestled treasures with your guide. Explore the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a jewel of Marrakech, is an ancient Islamic college dating back to the 14th century. Its intricately carved cedar wood, colourful tiles, and stucco work reflect traditional Moroccan architecture and Islamic design.
Followed by the madrasa visit the Maison de la Photographie; a captivating museum dedicated to showcasing Morocco’s visual history through a vast collection of vintage photographs. Housed in a restored 19th-century Riad, the museum offers a unique glimpse into the country’s diverse cultural heritage and providing a nostalgic journey through time.
After lunch at the famous Place des Epices, visit the Bahia Palace; a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, built in the late 19th century. Spread across expansive gardens, the palace boasts intricate tilework, ornate ceilings, and lush courtyards. It once housed grand receptions and official affairs, reflecting the opulence of the era. Visitors can explore its beautifully decorated rooms, tranquil courtyards, and stroll through the Andalusian-style gardens.
Before ending the day, visit the Badi Palace, built in the 16th century by Sultan Ahmad al Mansur, its ruins showcase remnants of an opulent palace with vast courtyards and sunken gardens. Despite its partial destruction, the site retains a majestic atmosphere, offering visitors a glimpse into Morocco’s rich past. Transfer to the hotel.
Overnight Stay: Hotel or Riad in Marrakesh.
After breakfast, later in the morning, depart for Essaouira, a coastal gem on Morocco’s Atlantic shores, be captivated with its blend of history, culture, and seaside charm. Enclosed by ancient walls, the medina reveals whitewashed buildings adorned with blue accents. The bustling harbour is a canvas of fishing boats and seagulls, while the labyrinthine streets host lively souks and artisan workshops. The coastal breeze enhances the city’s bohemian atmosphere, attracting artists and travellers alike. Essaouira’s unique ambiance makes this coastal town a must-visit destination for cultural exploration and relaxation.
Essaouira’s compact and walkable layout allows for a delightful self-guided exploration of its rich history, artistic scene & coastal beauty. Some of the highlights that can be discovered by foot:
Skala de la Ville: Experience the iconic Skala de la Ville, a fortress-like seafront area with cannons, offering panoramic views and a picturesque setting.
Port of Essaouira: Stroll around the bustling port, observing local fishermen and colourful boats. It’s a lively and photogenic area.
Moulay Hassan Square: Visit the lively square in the heart of the medina, surrounded by cafes, shops, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Essaouira Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of Essaouira Beach, known for its strong winds and water sports.
Art Galleries and Craft Shops: Explore local art galleries and craft shops within the medina, showcasing Essaouira’s artistic and creative community.
Mellah (Jewish Quarter): Explore the Mellah, the historic Jewish Quarter, and experience its unique architecture and atmosphere.
Jimi Hendrix’s House: Visit the former residence of Jimi Hendrix, a cultural landmark for music enthusiasts.
Couple of days at leisure.
Two nights stay: Hotel or Riad in Essaouira.
After breakfast check-out, depending on your flight timings proceed from the hotel and drive to Mohammed V International airport in Casablanca or Marrakech Menara International airport for your flight back home or onward journey.
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