11D10N Best of Morocco, A Women-Only Tour

Led by your knowledgeable Local Expert, wander the maze of streets that make up one of the largest thriving ancient medinas in the world. Admire traditional Moroccan handiwork during a visit to a carpet cooperative. Pass one of the world's oldest universities and see the hidden courtyards, mosques and workshops. Continue through the souks where an array of vendors sell food, clothes, leather goods and beautiful lights. For delicious cuisine in the Medina of Fes, enjoy a tasting menu at NUR, a restaurant featuring Moroccan specialties from seasonal seafood to local meats.

Leave the bustle of the city behind and head for the spectacular snowcapped High Atlas Mountains. Pass through Ifran before reaching the great cedar forests of Azrou. After stopping for lunch at Midelt, continue through the magnificent Ziz Gorges, past palm-fringed towns to Er Rachidia, built by the French and formerly the historic crossroads between the imperial cities. Your destination is Erfoud, where the red sand buildings stand in stark contrast against the patches of greenery and surrounding desert. In the evening, there is an Optional Experience to meet the nomadic Berbers and marvel at the glorious Sahara sunset on a four-wheel drive vehicle.

After a Relaxed Start, discover the desert town of Rissani. See the Tomb of Moulay Ali Cherif built by one of the founders of the Alaouite family who reigned during the second half of the 17th century. Further your discovery visiting the quarries of marine fossils dating back 360 million years ago. Taste the local flavours over a traditional lunch of Madfouna, or ‘Berber Pizza,’ known for its use of seasonal fillings and spices. The rest of your day is free to relax or explore further before dinner.

Venture towards the oasis of Tinehir and explore the Todra Gorge, known as the Grand Canyon of the Sahara. At Boumalne du Dadès you will encounter the dry and rugged Dades Valley, dotted with oases of figs, olives, date palms and castellated mud houses—hugging the slopes. Meet the locals of the region when you visit a traditional Nomad house to try authentic Berber tea. The Road of a Thousand Kasbahs concludes at Ouarzazate, also known as the film capital of Morocco. Many blockbusters have been filmed here, including Lawrence of Arabia and Star Wars.

Marvel at and photograph the architectural wonder of Ksar of Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts one of Morocco's finest kasbahs. Your journey continues via the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass, before descending past charming mountain villages, dense woods and green fields to the ochre-coloured city of Marrakesh. With the rest of the day at your leisure, why not relax and enjoy the immaculate facilities of your hotel?

Meet your Local Expert in the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, and take a moment to watch the dancers, snake charmers and storytellers. Wander the maze of the medina and see the Koutoubia Mosque, with its minaret dominating the Marrakesh skyline. With time at leisure, you are free to continue exploring: try your hand at haggling in the souks or maybe visit a museum. In the evening, perhaps choose to join fellow guests at a vibrant restaurant at Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Here you will enjoy classic Moroccan dishes as you absorb the ambience and watch twirling belly dancers balance plates of lit candles on their heads.

Venture to the west coast of Africa to reach the laid-back fishing town of Essaouira. After an orientation with your Travel Director navigating the narrow alleyways and exploring the busy fishing port, curate the rest of your day with Insight Choice. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating afternoon at a traditional Moroccan spa, Hammam Targa. Or, meet the inspiring women of a local cooperative over tea and snacks on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. In the evening, opt to delight your senses with a culinary adventure at a waterfront restaurant, sampling local seafood. 

Once you've experienced the traditional charms of the country, Casablanca is a fascinating place to return to and offers a unique insight into modern Morocco. In the evening 'of all the gin joints, in all the towns, in all the world' there really is only one place to be. Join your Travel Director at Rick's Café, recreated from the famous movie named for this legendary city. Enjoy a hearty Celebration Dinner with drinks and no doubt a rendition of ‘As Time Goes By'. “Here's looking at you kid.”

Today, bid farewell to your journey along Morocco as you transfer to the airport.