Best of Imperial Morocco

Experience the bustle of Casablanca, the gateway to Morocco and its business powerhouse! Navigate the maze-like tumble of alleyways in the Old City district, where authentic tradesmen sell their wares to shoppers, and feel the pulse of the city. Visit the Place Mohamed Central Plaza, home to many of the city’s important official buildings, including the Palace of Justice and the main Bank of Morocco, all sporting the neo-Moorish style of architecture. Explore the Hassan II mosque on the shoreline, which is the second largest mosque in the world. Admire its astonishingly intricate craftsmanship, accentuated by its dramatic location on the tip of the rocky bay. Do a bit of souvenir shopping in the busy central market where you can try your bargaining skills and pick up a pair of Morocco’s famous slippers. Head to Corniche, the beachfront district in the Ain Diab suburb, which is spotted with luxury hotels and restaurants. You can also drive to the seaside city of Mohammedia to stroll through its delightful medina and have a bite to eat at one of the many beachside cafes and restaurants. (Full Day; Self-Organized, For self drive guests no transfers; Meals, Guide & Entrance Fees Not Included; Fitness Level: Easy; Please wear comfortable clothes, shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen. Don’t forget your camera and bottled water.)

Witness the historical attractions and museums of Morocco’s capital, Rabat! A haven for history lovers, Rabat is situated right on the Atlantic Ocean, with the Bou Regreg River running to the west, separating it from the sister-city of Sale. Visit the city’s scenic Kasbah District and walk through its tiny neighbourhood of twisting Andalusian-style white-and-blue lanes, within the 11th-century fortress walls. Don’t miss visiting Rue el Jamma, where you’ll find the beautiful Kasbah Mosque. Admire the intricate motifs and designs of the ancient Hassan Tower, which is right next door to the mausoleum of King Mohammed V. Wander through the atmospheric ruins of the 14th-century Merenid citadel-town of Chellah. Explore the Oudaias Museum, housed in the opulent 17th-century lodge built by Moulay Ismail, inside the Andalusian Gardens. Do a spot of souvenir shopping in the Souk es Sebbat and Rue Souka streets. End the day with a delicious Moroccan dinner at one of the restaurants or cafes in the medina. (Half Day or Full Day; For self drive guests no Transfers; Meals, Guide & Entrance Fees Not Included; Fitness Level: Easy; Please wear comfortable clothes, shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen. Don’t forget your camera and bottled water.)

Experience 1,300 years of Moroccan heritage in the exotic city of Fes! Witness stunning examples of Islamic art and architecture including Medersa Bou Inania and Medersa el-Attarine, Islamic educational institutes exquisitely embellished by master Moroccan artisans. Admire the intricate stucco and tile work in the mosques. Walk through the narrow streets of Fes Bali, the largest surviving medina in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Flanked on either side by bustling souks occupied by tailors, artists, and traders, the medina also houses some spectacular mosques, tanneries, and fountains. Visit the iconic Bab Boujloud or Blue Gate, and have a cup of coffee at a street side cafe. Explore the outdoor markets, the covered bazaar and the tranquil little squares. Head to mellah, the Jewish quarter, where you can learn about Moroccan Jewish life and culture. End the day with souvenir shopping in the vibrant souks of Fes. (Full Day; Self-Organized; For self drive guests no Transfers included; Meals, Guide & Entrance Fees Not Included; Fitness Level: Easy; Please wear comfortable clothes, shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen. Don’t forget your camera and bottled water.)

Tantalize your taste buds with this exciting street food tour that takes you through the vibrant souks and alleyways of Fes in the company of a gastronomic expert. Check out three different food souks where you will find a variety of traditional Moroccan street food such as dried meats, soups, spicy potato cakes, spicy sardines, malawi, Moroccan bread, olives, and puff pastry. Taste many kinds of wild honey at the honey souk as your expert tells you all about its health benefits and importance in Moroccan cuisine as well as in Islamic culture. Catch a glimpse of traditional cooking methods during your visit to a furnatchi or traditional Moroccan stove, which is also used to heat the water for the communal hammam bath. See a 400-year-old furan or communal oven, and a bakery, before you move on to the world of spices and their various uses, all under the able guidance of your expert. (Duration: half day; Time: morning; Shared activity, Meal included: yes (lunch and food samples). Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; 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. (Duration: half day; Start and end times: 0900 – 1400 / 1300 – 1800 hrs; Private activity; For Self Drive guests no transfers included; Travel time to activity: 1 hr from Fes; Entry fees included; Fitness level: easy.)

Make a trip to Volubilis to see the remnants of an ancient Roman city. Situated near the city of Meknes and dating back to the third century BC, Volubilis has an illustrious past. Explore this historic city that was once the capital of the kingdom of Mauretania and later came to be ruled by the Romans. Look at its many Roman-style structures that have been excavated and restored, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site. Observe the temple and the basilica, the triumphal arch, and the mosaic flooring from excavated structures, among other things. Once you are done walking amid the ruins, you can head to the sacred town of Moulay Idriss. A prominent pilgrimage center of Morocco, Moulay Idriss also offers picturesque views of the surrounding hilly terrain, providing you with a great setting to end your tour. (Duration: full day; Private activity; For self drive guests no transfers included; Travel time to activity: 1 hr from Meknes, 1.5 hrs from Fes; Entry fees included; Fitness level: easy.)

Enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Bin el Ouidane during your stay at Widiane Hotel. Meet your guide at the hotel and head to the crystal clear lake and board your boat. You can go on a cruise in the morning or afternoon, depending on your preference. Take in views of the surrounding landscape as you sail on the calm waters. You could jump in for swim or relax onboard. You might even chance upon the picturesque Portuguese caves as you glide on the lake. After the short but scenic experience, return to the hotel. (Duration: 30 mins; Time: morning or afternoon; Private activity & transfers)

Enjoy kayaking on Lake Bin El Ouidane during your stay at the Widiane Hotel. Meet your guide at the hotel, either in the morning or afternoon, and head to Lake Bin El Ouidane that is surrounded by the Atlas Mountains. The activity is suitable for experienced rowers and beginners, alike. Your instructors will teach you how to safely use the kayak, if this is your first time. Feel the wind ruffle your hair as you paddle through the pristine waters of the lake. Take in the surrounding scenery and feel the adrenaline rush. Return to the hotel with your guide after the experience. (Duration: 30 mins; Time: morning or afternoon activity; Private activity & transfers; Please dress comfortably and bring sunglasses & waterproof bag for electronics)

Enjoy a leisurely hike through the mountains in the Bin El Ouidane region during your stay at the Widiane Hotel. Lace up your hiking boots, meet your local guide and head out. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the landscape. See multi-hued rock formations, highland streams and mountain groves with olive, almond, carob and oak trees. Walk through colorful Berber villages and interact with the locals to learn about their culture and daily lives. Trek into the wilderness of the Atlas Mountains and admire the natural beauty of the hiking trail. Take a break for lunch at a shaded spot, or by a mountain stream and enjoy a meal packed by the hotel. Note the many dramatic hues of the surrounding rock faces, as you trek back after lunch. Return to the hotel with your guide after the hike. (Duration: half day; Time: morning or afternoon activity; Private activity & transfers; Meals included: lunch; Please inform us of food any allergies in advance; Please wear comfortable hiking boots and bring sunglasses & sun hat)

Discover the colorful bustle and vibrant soul of the city of Marrakesh! Known as the ‘Red City,’ after which Morocco itself was named, Marrakech holds an aura of mystery and romanticism. Start the morning with a visit to the famous Koutubia Mosque, the largest mosque in the city, which dates back to the 12th century. Explore the Saadian Tombs near the Kasbah Mosque and admire the Italian carrara marble used throughout the mausoleum. Afterwards, stroll through the 19th century El Bahia Palace, which is built in a fusion of Islamic and Moroccan styles of architecture. Try your hand at bargaining at the souks in the heart of the old city. Find traders selling spices, shoes and leather goods. Visit Djemaa El Fna, a vibrant hub of bric-a-brac stalls, musicians, storytellers, fortune-tellers, and snake charmers. End the day with a drink and a delicious meal at one of the many surrounding rooftop cafes and restaurants and view the never-ending thrum of Moroccan life below. (Half Day or Full Day; no inclusions; Fitness Level: Easy; Please wear comfortable clothes, shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen. Don’t forget your camera and bottled water.)

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; Please note Koutoubia Mosque and El Bahia Palace close at 16:30 and the last entry is at 15:30)

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 a private nomadic tent at White Camel Lodge and join your hosts 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 to your accommodation. (Duration: half day: Start and end times: 1600 – 2030 hrs; Private activity; Travel time to activity: 45 mins; Camel ride included; Meal included: yes (dinner, snacks, tea). Drinks on own account; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy.)

For your day in Marrakech a Ford Tourneo with driver will be at your disposal for additional comfort.

Go on a trek up to a panoramic mountain pass in the area of Toubkal, the highest peak of the great Atlas Mountains (4.167 m). Begin from Imlil, a mountain retreat perched on a hilltop. Trek for about two hours, following a steep mule trail, till you reach the Tizi M’zik mountain pass (2.489m). Take as many breaks as you wish to rest along the way and to enjoy the glorious views. See the small villages on the sloping hillsides, near the agricultural terraces and fruit orchards – indicators of the community of Berber people living in the area. Enjoy the scent of the surrounding juniper forests, the beauty of the mountains and the spectacular views of the Imlil and Azadane valleys as you reach Tizi M’zik mountain pass. (Duration: full day; Private activity; Travel time to activity: 1-1.5 hrs; Entry fees included; Fitness level: moderate, as it involves trekking through a short but steep trail.)