A Weeklong Journey Through the Wonders of Morocco

Greetings and welcome to Morocco! You will be greeted by an Intrepid representative and transferred to your hotel upon arrival at Casablanca Airport. At 6 pm, an important welcome meeting will be held, marking the beginning of your adventure. If you have some time to spare, visiting the Villa des Arts is a great option for a limited time in Casablanca. The Art Deco gallery showcases numerous contemporary Moroccan and international art exhibitions. For a unique and fascinating cultural experience, the Museum of Judaism offers insight into a distinctive part of Moroccan history. In the evening, enjoy a banquet-style dinner with your group, set in the courtyard of a beautiful riad, and savor classic Moroccan dishes such as tagine and couscous, which perfectly exemplify Morocco's rich cultural heritage.

In the morning, discover the impressive Mosque of Hassan II, one of the largest religious sites in the world, overlooking the sea. Afterwards, depart Casablanca and head to Meknes, where you can wander through the charming streets of the old medina, enjoying an authentic glimpse of local life. Journey on to the well-preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis and experience an Exclusive Experience with a local guide, followed by a picnic lunch of fresh, locally sourced produce. In the late afternoon, make your way to Fes, where you will spend the next two nights.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting medieval old city of Fes, known as the mother of all medinas. Stroll through the winding alleys and streets, passing donkeys carrying heavy loads, and discover the unique sections of the souk, while your knowledgeable leader shares fascinating insights into Moroccan customs and traditions. As you walk through the medina, you'll come across historic khans, vibrant dye-pits, and fragrant spice stalls, with the bustling sounds of copper craftsmen and clucking chickens filling the air, transporting you back in time to the Middle Ages. Take in the ornate courtyards of El-Attarine Madrasa, a centuries-old Islamic school, and the splendid 18th-century inn of Funduq al-Najjarin.

In the evening, savor a special treat as you are invited to the home of a local family for a delicious pastilla dinner. Learn about the preparation of this iconic Moroccan pie and engage in friendly conversations with your gracious hosts about life in Fes.

Journey from Fes to Bin el-Ouidane, taking frequent stops along the way to appreciate the ever-changing Moroccan landscape. Experience a truly memorable visit to an Amazigh (Berber) family in the Khenifra region, gaining a priceless insight into their unique way of life. Here, you'll learn how to make the perfect brew of mint tea and enjoy a home-cooked lunch using locally grown ingredients. Immerse yourself in their customs, traditions and what life is like in the Atlas Mountains. Later, you'll arrive at Bin el-Ouidane, a charming small settlement situated on the bank of the lake and surrounded by sheer rocks. Enjoy your Feature Stay accommodation, which sits at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, perched on the edge of the huge, glittering lake. Take a blissful afternoon to relax by the paradisiacal swimming pool or soak in your surroundings on the fabulous terrace.

Today, you will venture out onto the sparkling waters of the lake, cruising on a speedboat to discover more of its breathtaking turquoise hues and the rugged gorges that encircle it. Take a refreshing dip in the invigorating waters or savor the stunning panoramas from the boat. You'll break for a revitalizing lunch at a shaded spot with a picturesque view of the lake before returning to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure, whether you choose to bask in the sun by the infinity pool, explore the nearby mountain trails, or indulge in a rejuvenating massage or a relaxing soak in the jacuzzi at the health spa.

On this day, you'll journey from Bin el-Ouidane to Marrakech at a relaxed pace, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way. You'll make a stop at the impressive Ouzoud Falls before continuing on to Marrakech. Once you arrive, you'll head to Djemaa el-Fna, a bustling public square and the city's most iconic landmark. Your Trip Leader will give you an orientation tour to help you get your bearings in this vibrant city. As the day gives way to night, the square comes alive with activity. You'll have the evening to explore on your own, perhaps enjoying a meal on one of the restaurant balconies overlooking the buzzing square and the Koutoubia Mosque.

After breakfast today, meet your local guide and embark on a morning tour of the old medina, wandering through the bustling souks that pulse with energy and activity. Discover the tranquil courtyards fragrant with the scent of orange blossom and the many salons and chambers that comprise Bahia Palace. Make a stop at the famous Koutoubia Mosque, although the inside is only open to Muslims, the towering minaret is a sight to behold. Then stroll back through the streets of the old medina to Djemaa el-Fna. The food here is best experienced like a local, so be sure to bring your appetite as your local guide will take you for a special tasting session where you’ll savor a range of seasonal delights such as freshly squeezed orange juice and crispy Moroccan donuts. The remainder of the day is free to explore further. You may want to visit Le Jardin Secret, a traditional medina garden with a magnificent courtyard, or head back into the medina to practice your haggling skills. On your final evening, consider joining your group for a farewell dinner – your leader will be able to recommend some fantastic local restaurants that are well worth raising a toast to.

Your adventure concludes today after breakfast. If you're eager to continue exploring, you can arrange for extra accommodation beforehand. Don't hesitate to consult with your leader about the wide range of exciting activities available in Marrakech.