Mystical Morocco

Itinerary

• Morocco

  Morocco is located in North Africa with a population of nearly 34 million. It has a coast on the Atlantic Ocean that reaches past the Strait of Gibraltar into the Mediterranean Sea. Morocco has international borders with Algeria to the east, and Mauritania to the south. Morocco was drawn into the Mediterranean world by Phoenician trading colonies and settlements in the late Classical period. This strategic region formed part of the Roman Empire, Vandals, Visigoths, Byzantine Greeks, and Islamic empires. During this time, the high mountains of most of modern Morocco remained in control of their Berber inhabitants. The Treaty of Fez (1912) made Morocco a protectorate of France, but in 1955 the country regained its independence. The capitol city is Rabat, and main economic center is Casablanca. Tangiers is a port located very close to Spain, and receives a lot of European traffic. The cities of Marrakech and Fes are both UNESCO sites. There is a broad range of other sites, the ancient seaport of Essaouira, desert gateway of Ouarzazate, and the mountain passes of the high Atlas Mountains.

• Casablanca

  Casablanca is a city in western Morocco, on the Atlantic coast. It is the country's largest city and chief port. The site was used early on as a port for Romans and Phoenicians, eventually becoming a town under Portuguese rule, and later abandoned in the mid 1700's after a devastating earthquake. In 1907, the French took control of the rebuilt Casablanca and retained power until 1956. The city still retains much of its French colonial architecture and culture.

• Fes

  Fès is the most ancient and impressive of the imperial cities. Built in the eighth century, it has more history and mystery than anywhere else in Morocco. The medina (market) in Fès El Bali is one of the largest in the world and is also on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. It is a huge maze of winding streets and covered bazaars where you can buy almost anything. It is particularly good for carpets, rugs and ornate metalwork.

• Marrakech

  Marrakech, founded over 1,000 years ago, is also known as the ‘red city’, from the natural red-ochre pigment that colours its walls and buildings, and is perhaps the most famous city in Morocco. A combination of the old (the Medina) and the new (Guéliz), Marrakech is an exotic cocktail of sights and sounds. Its roots are Berber, rather than Arab, having developed as the metropolis of nomadic and Atlas tribes (from the plains and Sahara desert). Once upon a time, Marrakech was the marketplace for goods of all type (slaves, gold, ivory) brought by caravan from distant Southern empires, a commerce which shaped its souks and carnival way of life.

• Merzouga

  The dunes of Erg Chebbi are a spectacular natural formation, the highest dunes in the country rising up to 300 meters at their highest point and best appreciated for watching the sun rise or set. They are approximately 28 kilometers in length and stretching away from the dunes, east and south towards Algeria, is a vast expanse of barren, rocky plains known locally as ‘hammada’.

• Rabat

  Rabat is the capital of the Kingdom of Morocco. It is also the capital of the Rabat-Salé-Zemmour-Zaer region. The city is located on the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of the river Bou Regreg. On the facing shore of the river lies Salé. Together the two cities with Témara account for a population of 2 million. Rabat is the second most important city in the country after the larger and more economically significant Casablanca.

• Skoura

  The oasis of Skoura's claim to fame is its long line of kasbahs along two seasonal rivers. Its appearance may be deceptive to many, being so long, it may recall images of a forest more than a huge oasis. Still it is even larger, most of the oasis runs north from the road. The most impressive among the many attractive kasbahs is the Amerhidl, dating back to the 17th century. Its design and grand size made it fit to illustrate the back of the Moroccan 50 dirham note.

• • Casablanca
  • EMS-ROYALMANSOUR-FRONT

  Day 1: Casablanca

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be available at your disposal today.

  A modern city and the trade capital of Morocco, Casablanca is a magnificent mix of modernism and tradition. It is the largest metropolitan city in the Maghreb and is characterised by elegant buildings, great avenues and unique architectural art forms and Moorish finishing's featured throughout the numerous domes and columns. This booming cosmopolitan city is now characterized on the sea side by the King Hassan II mosque, featuring a 200 meter minaret that dominates the whole city and its surroundings. Drive to visit the Jewish Historical Museum of Morocco in the Oasis area of Casablanca. Again, a driver and guide is at your disposal and will provide insight into the best this city has to offer.

  Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

  Accommodation: Le Meridien Royal Mansour

  Royal Mansour, with its classic Moroccan architecture and design, stands tall and regal in the centre of Morocco’s economic capital, Casablanca. On the banks of the Atlantic Ocean, the city welcomes visitors and curiosity from all corners of the world. Situated in the shopping and commercial district of the city, Le Royal Mansour Méridien has 182 rooms and a multitude of services available for travelers’ use. The restaurants are a key attraction, with a breakfast buffet that wins over even the most discerning taste buds. Not far from the newly restored Medina, the old quarter, the Royal Mansour combines the history and unique space of Morocco with the luxury and elegance that appeals to those who make their voyages in style.

• • Rabat
  • Villa Manderine

  Day 2: Casablanca - Rabat

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be available at your disposal today.

  Welcome to Morocco! On arrival at Mohammed V Airport in Casablanca you will be welcomed by your English speaking guide and will be transferred by private car to the capital city of Rabat. The ride usually takes about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival you will visit the Royal Palace, the wild gardens of the Chellah and a 14th-century Merinid necropolis. You'll also take a walk in the Andalusian Gardens, within the walls of the kasbah of the Oudaya. Before checking into your hotel you'll also have a stop at the Hassan Tower, a huge unfinished minaret, built mostly at the end of the 12th century.

  Accommodation: Villa Mandarine

  Nestled in the heart of an orange grove, La Villa Mandarine marries comfort and hospitality. Come and be surrounded by luscious blooms, breathtaking scenery, tantalizing food, and remarkable hospitality of this family-run villa.

• • Fez Mosque

  Day 3: Rabat - Fes

  A private vehicle with an English driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  This morning you'll drive to Meknes and embark on a city tour. The Ismalian capital famous for its 40 km long walls. Visit Bab Mansour, the Royal stables and the Jewish quarter. Continue to Fes, visiting en route the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis and the holy city of Moulay Idriss. Upon arrival to Fes, transfer to your hotel.

  Accommodation: Riad Fes

  Located in the heart of the ancient city of Fez, the Relais et Châteaux Riad Fes has succeeded in combining refinement with inspiration and invites you to relax and enjoy your stay in a serene atmosphere. The prestigious history and refined civilization of this Imperial city is reflected in the Spanish Moorish architecture and attention to detail seen in the décor. Its opened Andalous pavilion, in a simpler and contemporary style and its new baroco-andalous pavilion come to complete the traditional patio with a style even more contemporary and purified, to the full satisfaction of the guests who wish to spend some time in the middle of an oasis of harmony, comfort and luxury

• • Fez
  • Cooking Class

  Day 4: Fes

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  Explore the cultural and spiritual center of Morocco during this full day tour of Fes. Also known as Fes el Bali, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded in the 9th century, and is home to the world's oldest university. The city of Fes reached its true economic and cultural height in the 13th–14th centuries under the Merinids, when it replaced Marrakech as the capital of the kingdom.   Although the political capital of Morocco was transferred to Rabat in 1912, Fes has retained its status as the country's Artisan centre. Artisan workshops in the medina are as active today as they were 100 years ago, and strongly contribute to the city’s industrial economy. Trades such as blacksmithing, leather working, ceramics, silk, tapestries, and sculpting are still practiced in these workshops today. The original ramparts still protect this ancient city and its estimated 9000 narrow passageways and bustling streets.

  This morning meet with the Maison bleue Moroccan chef, Tariq Hadine to discuss the dishes that you would like to learn. Learn the correct preparation of Moroccan mint tea. Shop in the Medina in the morning to collect the day’s ingredients.  Head back to class and were you will learn and preparing three authentic dishes. You will then enjoy your meal and saver what you have learnt with a glass of local wine.

  Accommodation: Riad Fes
• • Jewish Cemetary

  Day 5: Fes

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  This morning, a private vehicle will English speaking driver will provide a transfer to the ancient Jewish city of Sefrou, a city that predates Fes by a thousand years. Sefrou has played a large role in the history of the area, as it was the last stop of the sub-Saharan caravans transporting goods for the European markets. Enjoy an informative visit to the Rabbi's mausoleums and synagogues. Sefrou's location enables it to be an important agricultural site, and hosts the Cherry Festival which is celebrated every June. During the return transfer to Fes, a stop is scheduled to visit the ancient Christian village of Bhalil. The village of Bhalil was built into the side of the mountain, where to this day, the locals still live in troglodytes cave homes.

  Accommodation: Riad Fes
• • Merzouga
  • La Belle Etoile tented camp

  Day 6: Fes - Erfoud - Merzouga

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  A 4x4 vehicle will be waiting for you to continue your adventure by heading towards the dunes of Erg Chebbi, possibly the largest dunes in the Sahara desert. The dunes of Erg Chebbi are a strikingly strange natural formation. On the top of the flattest area you could imagine, suddenly a long mountain of sand rises. This mountain is surrounded by flat and desolate nature on all sides, and you could end up wondering if it really is real. But so it is, even if its existence is so weird that it has given rise to legends and myths among the locals. Upon arrival at the camp you will witness the sunset from over the desert dunes and be astounded by the peace and calm as well as the changing colours of the landscape. If you're up to it you can also ride a camel!

  Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at the hotel Taddarte in Midelt.

  Accommodation: La Belle Etoile Bedouin Camp

  Enjoy your special night under the stars at this beautiful Oasis in a premium tented camp. Experience a camel ride at sunset and sunrise from the top of the dunes. Your desert experience includes an authentic Moroccan dinner under the stars and breakfast in the morning.

• • Skoura
  • Dar Ahlam

  Day 7: Merzouga - Skoura

  Private car & driver at your disposal for the day.

  After breakfast you'll transfer to the oasis town of Tineghir via the J'bel Sahro Range (at about 4,500 - 5,000 feet). Visit the most spectacular natural environments: the Todra Gorge. Craggy and colorful rock walls up to 1,000 feet high loom over a lush narrow valley dotted with oasis-like date palmeries and irrigated fields of grain. In contrast to the much-anticipated Sahara, these gorges may be the most unexpected pleasure of the trip. You can walk to explore its depths. Then to the Gorge du Dadès,distinct from the Todra Gorge with its fields of fig and myriad vegetation. Continue to Ouarzazate which you will reach late afternoon.

  Accommodation: Dar Ahlam

  Between the peaks of the High Atlas and the gateway to the South Moroccan desert, Ouarzazate paves the way to luxurious oases. Situated in the region of the thousand Kasbahs, the Skoura palm grove is a refreshing stop, a true labyrinth of luscious gardens. In the shade of the hundred-year-old palm trees, hides a dream house which lives according to tradition: almond trees in bloom, festival of roses, date and olive harvests.

• • Skoura Palm grove

  Day 8: Ouarzazate - Skoura

  A private vehicle with an English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  Depart at around 10AM for a morning off road excursion through the Palm grove Oasis around Skoura. Marvel at the mud architecture of the Kasbahs providing amazing views of the Atlas Mountain range. The palm groves of the area were laid out in the 12th century by the Almohad sultan Yacoub el-Mansour and named after its original inhabitants, the Berbers of the Haskourene tribe. Skoura is often referred to as the “Valley of One Thousand Kasbahs” and boast some of the most famed kasbahs in Morocco. The Ben Morro Kasbah stands on the left of the road above Skoura. It was built in the 17th Century, completely restored, and converted into a guest house. The most imposing of the kasbahs in this area that you will tour is 17th Century Amerhidil Kasbah. This fortified residence once belonged to the most powerful family responsible for protecting the village and its lands called the Glaoui. Today it is owned by the Sheikh of Amerhidil. Finally, the Kasbah of Aït Abou, built in the 1800’s and the oldest Kasbah in the palm grove, is six stories with walls 25 m high. Its surrounding buildings have been turned into a garden filled with pomegranate, apple, pear, fig, quince and olive trees that provide the necessary shading for growing crops.

  Accommodation: Dar Ahlam
• • Koutoubia mosque
  • La Sultana- Exterior

  Day 9: Marrakech - Ouarzazate

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  The route through Ouarzazate to Marrakech offers wonderful photo opportunities like the UNESCO World Heritage Centre of Aït Ben Haddou, where movies such as Gladiator and Jesus Of Nazareth were filmed, and the dramatic Tizi n'Tichka mountain pass. You will arrive in Marrakech late in the afternoon.

  Accommodation: La Sultana

  La Sultana "Marrakech" is situated in the heart of the golden triangle, at the entry of the Imperial City’s walls, just next to the Royal Palaces, to the Bahia Palace and to the famous Jemma El Fna place, where erudites, architects and artists from all epochs set up sumptuous houses, mosques and gardens.

• • 

  Day 10: Marrakech

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  After breakfast you will be met at your hotel and taken on a full day guided tour of Marrakech. Your tour usually starts at the 12th century Koutoubia Mosque but you can discuss all of the options with your guide. The mosques beautiful minaret dominates the skyline of Marrakech and can be seen from almost every approach to the city thanks to a long-standing planning ordinance that forbids any other building in the old city to rise above the height of a palm tree. You will also visit the El-Bahia Palace, this 19th century palace is elaborate in its decoration and was built over a period seven years for Ba Ahmed, the son of the Grand Vizier Si Moussa, there are row after row of apartments—that once housed Ahmed's harem—a trapezoidal garden, a huge tiled courtyard, and many hidden treasures, both in the form of antique objects d'art and the palace's convergence of Andalusian and Moorish architecture. One of most visited sites in Morocco is the Saadian Tombs which were only accessible via the mosque next door. However, in 1917 they were opened to the public and can now be accessed via a narrow passage that leads to an enclosed garden watched over by two mausoleums that include more than one hundred mosaic decorated tombs. The Koranic School Medersa Ben Youssef which is a Theological college founded by the Merenid Sultan Abu Hassan in the 14th century, and restored in 1564 by the Saadians who made it the largest theological college in the Maghreb and a rival to the important Medersa Bou Inania in Fés.

  Accommodation: La Sultana
• • kasbah Tamadot

  Day 11: Marrakech

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  Your driver will meet you at your hotel and drive you to Tamadot which is about an hour from Marrakech. On the way, you'll make a brief stop at the Berber villages of Tahanoute and continue to the village of Asni before arriving at Tamadot. The Kasbah Tamadot is located on the outskirts of Asni, a small Berber village where the road branches off to Imlil and the Toubkal Massif. The Kasbah Tamadot was seen by Sir Richard’s mother who realized the potential for creating a unique environment and after a very painstaking period of renovation, Tamadot was born. It offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys, including a Berber village hugging the opposite bank of the river. The “Kanoun” restaurant at Tamadot (named after the traditional Berber bread oven) features an outdoor terrace and roof top for dining on warmer days or inside when cooler. Tamadot also has an excellent wine list. After lunch at The Kasbah Tamadot, your guide will take you to explore the mountains by foot.

  Accommodation: La Sultana

• Day 12: Marrakech - Casablanca

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  Travel to Casablanca (approx 2.5 hours) by private car.

  Accommodation: Depart

  Depart from Casablanca International airport - end of itinerary.

Accommodation

• Culinary Delights

  Moroccan dishes are replete with wonderful, healthy ingredients such as garden-fresh fava beans, vine ripened vegetables, and a medley of legumes (chickpeas, kidney, navy, and lentils Many dishes feature pastas and grains like couscous, vermicelli, and orzo. What sets Moroccan cuisine apart from other Mediterranean cooking, however, is the liberal use of spices. Turmeric, saffron, cinnamon, cumin, and sweet Hungarian paprika lend dynamic flavour and a rich, warm colour that enhances the meals' visual quality. Almond paste, ginger, harissa, mint orange-flower-water also add to the exotic flavour.

• Natural Wonders

  The Argan is a rare and endangered tree that grows in warm arid climates and is most commonly found in Morocco. Similar in appearance to an olive tree, it is an important natural resource, producing a nut that provides rich and delicious oil used for cooking. Goats climb the broad, gnarled tree-trunks of the tree to eat the olive-like fruit; however they discard the hard shells and the nut. Farmers then collect the shells and nuts to press for oil, and afterwards the remains are burned and used in cooking. Argan oil is expensive and a rare commodity made mostly by women. It has as divinely smooth and nutty flavour, making it a treat in salad dressing of for dipping bread.

• Cultural Moments

  The medina (market) in Marrakech is one of the largest in the world. Here, one can buy almost anything. It is particularly good for carpets, rugs and ornate metalwork. As in all of Morocco, the market business is conducted in a leisurely, although decidedly earnest way, with the accompaniment of endless glasses of sweet mint tea. Miles of narrow winding streets are crowded with stores selling everything from brass plates and trays to sweet pastries and richly patterned carpets.

• • EMS-ROYALMANSOUR-FRONT

  Le Meridien Royal Mansour

  Royal Mansour, with its classic Moroccan architecture and design, stands tall and regal in the centre of Morocco’s economic capital, Casablanca. On the banks of the Atlantic Ocean, the city welcomes visitors and curiosity from all corners of the world. Situated in the shopping and commercial district of the city, Le Royal Mansour Méridien has 182 rooms and a multitude of services available for travelers’ use. The restaurants are a key attraction, with a breakfast buffet that wins over even the most discerning taste buds. Not far from the newly restored Medina, the old quarter, the Royal Mansour combines the history and unique space of Morocco with the luxury and elegance that appeals to those who make their voyages in style.

  • More information
• • Villa Manderine

  Villa Mandarine

  Nestled in the heart of an orange grove, La Villa Mandarine marries comfort and hospitality. Come and be surrounded by luscious blooms, breathtaking scenery, tantalizing food, and remarkable hospitality of this family-run villa.

  • More information
• • Riad Fes Lobby

  Riad Fes

  Riad Fes is located in the heart of the ancient city of Fez. The Relais et Châteaux Riad Fes has succeeded in combining refinement with inspiration and invites you to relax and enjoy your stay in a serene atmosphere. The prestigious history and refined civilization of this Imperial city is reflected in the Spanish Moorish architecture and attention to detail seen in the décor. Its opened Andalous pavilion, in a simpler and contemporary style and its new baroco-andalous pavilion come to complete the traditional patio with a style even more contemporary and purified, to the full satisfaction of the guests who wish to spend some time in the middle of an oasis of harmony, comfort and luxury

  • More information
• • La Belle Etoile tented camp

  La Belle Etoile Bedouin Camp

  Enjoy your special night under the stars at this beautiful Oasis in a premium tented camp. Experience a camel ride at sunset and sunrise from the top of the dunes. Your desert experience includes an authentic Moroccan dinner under the stars and breakfast in the morning.

  • More information
• • Dar Ahlam

  Dar Ahlam

  Between the peaks of the High Atlas and the gateway to the South Moroccan desert, Ouarzazate paves the way to luxurious oases. Situated in the region of the thousand Kasbahs, the Skoura palm grove is a refreshing stop, a true labyrinth of luscious gardens. In the shade of the hundred-year-old palm trees, hides a dream house which lives according to tradition: almond trees in bloom, festival of roses, date and olive harvests.

  • More information
• • La Sultana- Exterior

  La Sultana

  La Sultana "Marrakech" is situated in the heart of the golden triangle, at the entry of the Imperial City’s walls, just next to the Royal Palaces, to the Bahia Palace and to the famous Jemma El Fna place, where erudites, architects and artists from all epochs set up sumptuous houses, mosques and gardens.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.horizon-co.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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