Active pace with longer touring days. Expect intermittent walking at a moderate pace for 2–3 hours over a variety of terrain, including cobblestones, hills and uneven pavements. Must be able to negotiate stairs of varying heights, sometimes without handrails. Can tolerate periods of standing during guided tours and be able to climb in/out of various modes of transportation. Some days may include 5–7 km of walking over the course of the day.
Depart for Casablanca direct from Toronto.
We arrive in Casablanca and transfer to Rabat where we embark on a tour of Rabat, Morocco's capital and the Royal Family's seat, featuring palaces and mosques. Explore the ancient medina, see the Royal Palace's exterior, King Mohamed VI's residence, the Royal Mausoleum of Sultan Mohammed V, the Kasbah of the Oudayas, and the exquisite Hassan Tower. Tonight, we will enjoy our Welcome Dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant.
This morning, we journey north to Tangier, the gateway between Africa and Europe. Enjoy a guided tour beginning at Cap Spartel, where the Atlantic and Mediterranean dramatically meet, followed by a visit to the mythical Hercules Caves. Explore the ancient Kasbah and end the tour at a charming local spot that captures the true essence of Tangier.
Explore scenic Chefchaouen, renowned for its white houses with blue doors, wrought iron windows, and tile roofs. Discover its leather and weaving workshops along cobbled lanes, the red-walled Kasbah, and a 15th-century fortress. The local markets here are bustling with traditionally dressed locals and a colourful array of goods.
Proceed to Fez, the spiritual centre of Morocco. On the way we stop at the ancient Roman Ruins of Volubilis. As we walk among the remarkably preserved columns and mosaics, we’ll be transported back to the height of the Roman Empire in North Africa.
Spend the day touring the amazing city of Fez. Wander the old town shadowed by mosque minarets, where potters, charcoal burners, goldsmiths, and weavers practice their ancient trades. Visit the renowned Jewish Quarter, known for its exquisite ironwork. The full-day tour includes the UNESCO-listed Medina, the Nejjarine Fountain, the Moulay Idriss Mausoleum, the Kairaouine Mosque, and more.
Enjoy a leisurely morning to explore at your own pace. This afternoon we travel to the mountain town of Azrou in the Middle Atlas, visiting the city and its towering cedar forests. The evening is ours to unwind before dinner at the hotel.
We journey through the mountains to Midelt, a town nestled in the stunning landscape between the High and Middle Atlas ranges. After a lunch break, we head to Merzouga to see its famous sand dunes reaching up to 160 m high. On our arrival we will have an opportunity to go on a camel ride around the dunes before enjoying a dinner and show beneath the stars.
After breakfast at our camp we depart for the holy city of Rissani for a local Mefouna lunch. We journey through the dramatic landscape of Dades Valley, visiting the imposing Dades and Todgha Gorge, to Ouarzazate.
March: Visit the Kasbah of Taourirt, one of Morocco’s most stunning, and the 16th-century Aït Benhaddou, the south’s most spectacular fortress and a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for film settings like Lawrence of Arabia. Enjoy lunch with terrace views of the kasbah, then return to Ouarzazate.
October: Visit the Kasbah of Taourirt, one of Morocco’s most stunning and beautifully preserved fortresses, that offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and traditional architecture. Next we’ll visit Atlas Studios to discover the city’s role as the backdrop for many famous movies.
March: Travel to Marrakech via the Tichka Pass, Morocco’s highest pass, enjoying breathtaking views of the High Atlas Mountains and traditional Berber villages.
October: We travel to Marrakech via the Tichka Pass, Morocco’s highest pass, enjoying breathtaking views of the High Atlas Mountains and traditional Berber villages. On the way we will stop at the 16th-century Kasbah Ait Behhaddou, the south’s most spectacular fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site known for film settings like Lawrence of Arabia.
March: Embark on a full-day tour of Marrakech, the 1,000-year-old “Red City” rich in culture and history. Tour Majorelle Gardens, the Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, and the medina. Experience Djemaa El Fnaa Square’s snake charmers, acrobats, and scribes for a true Moroccan sensory feast.
October: Embark on a full-day tour of Marrakech, the 1,000-year-old “Red City” rich in culture and history. Tour Marjorelle Gardens, the historic Madrasa Ben Youssef, a former Islamic college known for its intricate architecture, and visit the Bacha Palace to marvel at the opulent courtyards and rich history. Explore Marrakech’s old city with its vibrant streets, stunning landmarks, and timeless charm.
March: En route to Essaouira, stop at an Argan co-operative to witness local women producing Argan oil. In Essaouira, tour the UNESCO-listed medina and Orson Welles Square and Memorial, celebrating his filming of Othello. Keep an eye out for the unique tree-climbing goats in the Argan trees!
October: Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore Marrakech at your own pace. Optional tours: visit Essaouira, take a hot air balloon ride, or enjoy a cooking class.
We depart to Casablanca, the “White City.” After lunch we will tour the oceanfront Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest. As we explore its vast halls and intricate details, we’ll gain insight into Morocco’s rich cultural heritage. This evening, we will enjoy our Farewell Dinner at Rick’s Cafe, a replica of the bar from Humphrey Bogart’s Casablanca.
We fly home from Casablanca.
You may cancel your tour up to 60 days prior to departure (120 days prior for tours requiring a visa, cruises or rail journeys) for any reason, and receive a full refund of your deposit / payment (less the $75 administration fee).
Cancellation & trip interruption insurance included!
Included in the cost of your tour is our Cancellation Insurance Policy, which provides coverage in case of emergency injury or illness (including Covid), right up to your date of departure (terms and conditions apply).
Our Manulife Out-of-Country Health Insurance Plan covers expenses related to Trip Interruption in case of emergency injury or illness. For tours within Canada, Senior Discovery Tours will cover such expenses (terms and conditions apply to all policies).
