Morocco: Medina Magic and Beni Mellal

Discover the many attractions of this famous city set by the Atlantic Ocean, in this private tour. Set off from your hotel at a convenient time and head to the city’s Central Market. As you drive along, get a glimpse of the city’s skyline, a mix of traditional architecture with modern and art deco styles liberally interspersed. At the market, browse through the colorful displays of produce, seafood, and flowers even as you take in the charm of the Neo-Mauresque style building. Head over to the ornate Mahakma building dating back to the 1950s. With 60 rooms, this sprawling structure made of stone, marble, and wood simultaneously served as a Muslim law court and the governor’s reception hall. Stop by the Hassan II mosque, the largest in Africa, with a capacity of 80,000! Only one of two mosques open to non-Islamic visitors, this magnificent edifice was completed in 1993 and is larger than Saint Peter’s in Rome. (Half Day; Duration: 4 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy. Please note that the inside visit to the mosque ends at 1400 hrs.)

Recently granted UNESCO World Heritage status, the city of Rabat is yours to discover! Named after the Arabic word ‘ribaat’ meaning ‘fortified place’, the capital of Morocco has a long and rich history behind it. Begin your tour at the medina, where you will find the Hassan tower, an unfinished minaret from the time of Yaqub al Mansur, who wished to build the largest mosque in Rabat. An important figure in the construction of Rabat, the city walls and restored Kasbah of the Udayas on your itinerary, stand testimony to Mansur’s efforts. Next, explore the Chellah, also the ruined Roman city of Sala, which boasts ancient monuments and buildings. Also a fortified Muslim necropolis where the Merenid dynasty are buried, the Chellah is one of the best archaeological sites of modern day Morocco. (Half Day; Time of Day: Morning and Afternoon; Duration: 2-3 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy)

Leave the hectic popularity of Fez behind for the quieter but equally precious cultural attractions of Meknes. Explore the historical grandeur of the former capital city of Morocco in the arches and columns of Bab El Mansour, the monumental gate adorned with wood carvings and detailed zellige tile work. Marvel at the splendor of the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the founding Sultan of this imperial city and admire the nearby Heri es-Souani which used to house the royal granary and stables. Explore the remains of fortifications which stand testimony to the city’s former glory and meticulous planning. Enjoy the local vibe with a stroll through the Place Hedim where historic buildings and narrow alleys exude as much atmosphere as its bustling shops and eateries. (Half Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Time: Morning/Evening; Duration: 4-5 hrs; Fitness level: Easy)

Begin the new day with an energizing Yoga session while overlooking the timeless Medina of Fes from the rooftop terrace of the Palais Amani hotel. After the class, head down to the gardens where a special detox breakfast will complete this extraordinary experience. (Shared Yoga class, no transfers included, duration of the Yoga class: 1.15 hrs, detox breakfast included, class starts at 8am, mats, blocks and straps are provided)

Traverse through 1,300 years of Moroccan heritage as your guide leads you across the most beautiful medina in Morocco. In the beautiful city of Fes, gaze in awe at the exquisite examples of Islamic art and architecture. Walk through the narrow streets flanked on either side by bustling souks occupied by tailors, artists, and traders selling a variety of wares. Saunter past cafes that lead to outdoor markets, the covered bazaar, and quiet squares where you can spot children at play and donkeys at work transporting supplies. The world’s largest car-free urban space and a prominent UNESCO World Heritage site, the medina is where you will find a large number of spectacular mosques, tanneries, and fountains. Accompany your guide into some of the mosques that permit non-Muslims to enter, so you can get a closer look at the intricate stucco and tile work inside. Explore the new medina, the medersa or Islamic educational institute, and the iconic Bab Boujloud or Blue Gate, which is a great place to indulge in people watching! Stop by the picturesque fountain at Place Nejjarine before you make your way to the mellah (Jewish quarter) for a glimpse into the city’s Jewish heritage. Browse through some of the souks of Fes before you decide to call it a day. (Full Day; Time of Day: Morning; Duration: 6 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please note that non-Muslims are not allowed insides many of the mosques.)

Set off at your own pace from Fes as you head toward the city of Beni Mellal, stopping to explore the rural town of Azrou en route. Tucked into the mountains at an altitude of 4,101 feet (1,250 m), this laidback Berber town is characterized by its green oak and cedar trees. The capital of the Middle Atlas region, the town is named for the large rock outcrop found near its western boundary. Take your time exploring the quaint marketplace and admire the splendid Ennour mosque crafted from local cedarwood. Keep an eye out for the large population of wild Barbary macaques that inhabit the cedar wood fringing this typical Moroccan town. (En route Activity; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Set out on an hour-long, late-afternoon drive from the bustling streets of Marrakech for an intimate desert experience. Take a brief detour along the banks of Lake Takerkoust enroute, passing through olive and orange orchards, and occasional tarmacs lined with eucalyptus trees. Arriving at the scenic Agafay desert, hop on a dromedary camel and enjoy a leisurely sunset ride in the wilderness. Soak in the dramatic landscape of this rocky desert complemented by panoramic views of the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains. Listen to local folklore and anecdotes courtesy of your local guide, as you navigate the stone covered dunes, sometimes dotted with wildflowers and Bedouin settlements. Later, settle down in private nomadic tents and join your hosts and fellow guests for some local entertainment and campfire conversations. Try your hand at card games and board games over rounds of mint tea and Moroccan snacks. Shortly after, savor a sumptuous spread of traditional Berber dishes under the stars, before returning. (Half Day; Time: Evening; Duration 4 – 5 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Dinner included; Fitness level: Easy)

Set out with your private guide to unravel the wonders of the red city! With its exoticism and aura of mystery, Marrakech enjoys legendary status as a tourist attraction. It has the unique distinction of being the city after which the country is named. On this tour, visit the famous Koutoubia Mosque dating back to the 12th century which is also the largest in the city. Listen to your local expert explain the origins of this mosque and its prominent minaret. Afterwards, head over to the Saadian Tombs situated near the Kasbah Mosque. Gaze in wonder at the Italian carrara marble used across the mausoleum. Next, explore the 19th century El Bahia Palace featuring a blend of Islamic and Moroccan styles of architecture. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the souks at the heart of the old city that offer a variety of wares for visitors to browse through. (Full Day; Time of Day: Morning; Duration: 7 hrs; Private Activity; Fixed Time; Fitness Level: Easy;)