Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

Welcome to   mesmerizing  Morocco  - a gateway to Africa & a country of dizzying diversity where you will find epic mountain ranges, ancient cities, sweeping deserts – and warm hospitality.. 

Arrive in the port city of Casablanca - one of the largest financial centers on the African continent.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? - Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in and provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next day.

Check-in at the hotel & relax.

Casablanca is a port city & commercial hub in western Morocco, fronting the Atlantic Ocean. Though not as atmospheric as other Moroccan cities, Casablanca is the best representation of the modern nation. It is the largest city in Morocco & also the largest city in the Maghreb, as well as one of the most important cities in Africa, both economically & demographically. Casablanca is Morocco's chief port & one of the largest financial centers on the continent and is considered the economic & business center of Morocco, although the national political capital is Rabat. The leading Moroccan companies & international corporations doing business in the country have their headquarters & main industrial facilities in Casablanca.

The Port of Casablanca is one of the largest artificial ports in the world & the second largest port of North Africa, after Tangier and is also the primary naval base for the Royal Moroccan Navy. This is where young Moroccans come to seek their fortunes & where money is being made as business & the creative industries prosper.

The city's French colonial legacy is seen in its handsome Mauresque buildings in the downtown area, which meld French-colonial European art deco design & traditional Moorish Moroccan style.

Visitors who spend time there, in the Quartier Habous & in the beachside suburb of Ain Diab, are sure to get into the local swing of things & realise that this old pirate lair is looking towards the future, embracing the European-flavored urban sophistication that has underpinned life here for the past century.

The number of construction projects currently under way here is simply extraordinary - major re-developments include those at Place Mohammed V and the Parc de la Ligue Arabe & new public buildings include the Grand Theatre de Casablanca. Standing partly over the water, the enormous Hassan II Mosque, completed in 1993, has a 210m minaret topped with lasers directed toward Mecca.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions and / or make arrangements

And if you are the more adventurous, independent sort of traveller who wants to go beyond what is 'pretty', this is North African big city life in all its grit & glory, with its cultural diversity (there are immigrants here from many other parts of Africa), and its many neighbourhoods of vibrant day & night life.

Morning, Check-out & meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby at 08.00 pm & proceed for an 8 hour sightseeing tour of the city.

Round up Casablanca’s sights in a full day city tour with a knowledgeable commentary to shed light on the landmarks. Learn more about Islam, which is a good introduction to the start of your trip as the knowledgeable Tour-guide will give you a fascinating insight into Moroccan / Muslim life - everything you wanted to know but were afraid to ask!

Frist stop will be the majestic Hassan II Mosque - largest mosque in Morocco, the second largest in Africa & the 5^th largest in the world which can hold 25,000 worshippers. Built to commemorate the former Kings 60^th birthday & completed in 1993, it was designed by Michel Pinseau & built by Bouygues, with beautiful turquoise tile work, a retractable roof & its minaret is the world's tallest at 210 metres.

Continue on to the Place of the United Nations (Place de France), a small, traditional walled area built on a hill overlooking the city which was developed by the French architect & urban planner Henri Prost in 1915 and served as a link between the old Medina & the new city center. With its arches of golden stones, housed in the heart of the White City, it shows 70 years of “chic” architecture with its wide avenues & beautiful flower gardens.  Walk through the Medina’s   central market & the district Habbous, that have maintained their authenticity.

Visit the Villa des Arts housed in a pretty 1934 Art Deco villa & you will be impressed by its beautiful garden. The oldest private Museum of the city, the Villa retains a rich collection of over 800 works & regularly presents temporary exhibitions of Moroccan & foreign artists.

See a former Roman Catholic Casablanca Cathedral (Cathedral of the Sacred Heart), a structure of Gothic art & art deco mix constructed in 1930 & housed in the middle of the park of the Arab League. The cathedral ceased its religious function in 1956, after the independence of Morocco.

Marking the busiest entrance to the old medina, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in downtown Casablanca - the 20 meters high Clock Tower,   informing the time to all passers-by.  The current Tower is a 1993 reproduction of the original 1911 structure, which fell into disrepair & was dismantled around 1950.

Then, visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism which opened its door for the first time in 1977. The only Jewish museum in the Arabic-speaking world, this institution is set in an attractive garden villa that once functioned as a Jewish orphanage. It traces the 2000-year history of Jews in Morocco, focusing on Casablanca's Jewish community (most of the country's Jews live here). The Museum offers a historical & ethnographic opening on Moroccan Jewish community. The thoughtfully curated & well-labelled collection includes ornate clothing, traditional tools & ritual objects. Photographs usually feature in the temporary exhibition space, and there's a reconstructed 1930s synagogue from Larache in an adjoining room.

Drive by Mahkama du Pacha - a Hispanic-Moorish building comprising of more than 60 ornate rooms with delicately carved wooden ceilings & stuccoes & intricate wrought-iron railings as well as beautifully-tiled floors.

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You will also stop at the bar at the Hotel Hyatt Regency, famous as a location for many Hollywood films starring Humphrey Bogart & Ingrid Bergman for a final coffee break.

Last stop will be the Corniche - a neighborhood on the ocean, west of the Hassan II Mosque. Decades ago, it was a thriving resort area - hotels lining the ocean side of the Boulevard de la Corniche & nightclubs lining the other side and it is almost disorienting how much it resembles the New Jersey Shore.  Along the Boulevard de l'Ocean Atlantique are many newer, fancier hotels. The Corniche is also home to many western fast food chains. A new western-style movie theater can also be found here, but the best option is to walk up and down the street, resting at one of the many ocean-view cafes.

The sightseeing concludes.

In time, depart for Rabat.

Arrive by evening & Check-in at the hotel.

Many travelers consider Rabat an overlooked gem. Morocco’s political & administrative capital may be short on top-drawer tourist attractions, but it compensates with plenty of charm.

Rabat has a real European feel to it, with cafes lining the streets, a fine selection of restaurants & a mix of languages overheard on the streets. The ville nouvelle's palm-lined boulevards are clean, well kept & relatively free of traffic - a blessed relief for those who have spent time in Casablanca.

The Phoenicians, Carthegians & Romans all had strongholds in Rabat, with the well-preserved Roman ruin of Sala Colonia (Chellah) testament to this history, but for the most part, this area was tribal belonging to local lords & chiefs. It wasn’t until the Almohads in 1147 established their Moroccan empire that the first ribat (or, fortress, from where modern-day Rabat takes its name) was built on the site of the current Udayas Kasbah. The Almohad caliph, Moulay Yacoub al-Mansour moved the capital of the empire to Rabat in the 12^th century, making it the first time Rabat served as a capital & flourished. This is when much of old Moroccan Rabat was constructed, including the unfinished Hassan Mosque, the medina & the expansion of the hilltop fortress.  

A few hundred years later, only 100 houses in Rabat remained. Surprisingly, it was the Spanish Inquisition that provided a much-needed population to the area, with refugees storming down by the thousands from Andalusia. In 1672, Rabat & Sale formed an alliance, dubbing themselves the Republic of Bouregreg, which became a much-feared pirate hub & launched raids and attacks around Africa, Europe & the Mediterranean. This so-called republic lasted for over 200 years until the Alaouite dynasty, the current dynasty of Morocco, seized power & stomped out the piracy.

Today, Rabat is the political hub of Morocco & the home of the King, His Majesty Mohamed VI, as well as various ministries, dignitaries & embassies. It was re-established as the capital of Morocco in 1912 during the French Protectorate Era & has continued its function as the capital city after Moroccan Independence in 1956 ever since.

Just up from the hill from the medina is the Kasbah of the Udayas (Oudayas or Oudaïas), a well-preserved fortress dating from 12^th century Almohad Dynasty with commanding views over Rabat. A long stretch of the Rabat Beach starts behind the attractive walled medina & down the hill from the evocative Kasbah.

Wander through the Andalusian Gardens, up through the blue-painted walls & enjoy a tea beneath the shade at the Cafe Oudaïa. Wide sidewalks, friendly petit taxis & a new tram to help commuters get around Rabat & across the nearby Sale, the Bouregreg River & the Atlantic.

In Rabat, you can easily dive into art & culture while feeling at ease. The Theater of Rabat is home to the Rabati Theater Troupe. Many comedies, usually in French or Arabic, are staged here as well as visiting performances from around the world. The Goethe Institute & Institute Français keep year-long schedules of events & as well as the yearly Mawazine Festival which invites musicians from around the world. Some of the recent performers have been Alicia Keys, B.B. King & Ricky Martin.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions and / or make arrangements).

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 09.00 am & proceed for a 4 hour walking tour of the city.

Stop at Hassan Tower & Mosque - the unfinished, ambitious mosque was initially started in 1195 by Yacoub el-Mansour (“The Victorious”) around the same time he oversaw the construction of the Udayas Kasbah.

The Hassan Mosque was meant to be the second largest mosque in the world & the greatest in Morocco. Original construction was abandoned in 1199, after el-Mansour’s death & never resumed. The mosque’s prayer hall was in use until the Great Earthquake of 1755 (the same that leveled Lisbon) brought down the supporting columns, some of which have been restored to give an idea of its possible size. It remains one of the most beautiful pieces of Almohad architecture in all of Morocco, though not as complete as the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh

Walk across to the Mausoleum of Mohammed V begun in 1961, the year of the King’s death & completed six years later. Mohamed V, his sons Hassan II (the current king’s father) & Moulay Abellah. The lavish mausoleum was designed by Vietnamese architect Vo Toan.

You will also visit the town across the river - Sale - to the relaxing Chellah Gardens (Sala Colonia) & Necropolis for a relaxing, beautiful walk through this ancient Roman-Moroccan ruin. Today, Chellah has been transformed into a popular tourist destination for the expansive gardens. In the spring, hundreds of flowers are in bloom & couples can be strolling at their leisure along with the occasional bird watcher gazing up at the storks. The grounds are yours to explore, from the citadel to the ruins. The gardens also play host to the annual Chellah Jazz Festival, which is usually held in September.

Originally the site of the Roman city of Sala Colonia, hundreds of years after the Romans fled Morocco, the Almohad dynasty used the now abandoned city as a necropolis, dubbed Chellah built around the nearby freshwater springs. They were followed by the Merinids, who built a mosque, zaouia & the royal tombs here. The great Lisbon earthquake of 1755, the same that leveled much of Meknes, damaged many of the structures here and the unused city fell into ruin. The sultans of the Merenid dynasty chose to bury their dead here & it is as a necropolis that the Chellah is most famous.

The ruins of Roman Sala are exposed, but it is the minarets of the tomb complex, topped with stork's nests, that provide the picturesque background to your visit here.

The sightseeing concludes.

Return to the hotel or continue exploring on your own.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions and / or make arrangements).

You may visit the Jewelry Museum nesting in the 17^th century palace of Moulay Ismail in the middle of the Oudayas Kasbah, which houses a fair selection of jewelry from the Phoenician & Roman colonies in Morocco, as well as providing a historical perspective of the jewelry adorning the women & men from the various regions & cities of Morocco.

Another interesting point is the newly opened Mohammed VI Museum for Modern and Contemporary Art dedicated to preserving both past & present art in Morocco. Inspired by traditional Moroccan architecture, the Museum took a decade to build & cost more than US $20 million in total & the  first exhibition was dedicated to the last 100 years of Moroccan art, labeled: “1914 - 2014: 100 Years of Creation” &  hosts 400 art pieces by over 150 Moroccan artists. The more modern pieces lean towards the abstract & figurative.  

Early morning, meet The Journeys Driver / Rep & depart for Marrakesh, driving through the scenic mountains, with a lot of photo stops on the way.

Reach Marrakesh by late afternoon & Check-in at the hotel. 

Prepare for your senses to be slapped. Marrakesh's heady sights & sounds will dazzle, frazzle & enchant.

Artisan Heritage| Faith & Culture|The Medina| Souq Shopping

With its busy markets, tangled streets heady with the scent of fragrant spices, steamy bath houses & dusty-pink buildings, Marrakech is an intensely compelling city. It was described by Winston Churchill as the "Paris of the Sahara" & one can certainly understand why upon seeing its grandiose architecture, immense beauty & vibrant history.

Marrakesh is possibly the most important of Morocco's four former imperial cities and now a major economic center & home to mosques, palaces & gardens. Marrakesh is a city steeped in ancient artistry that continues to thrive, kept alive by the modern craftspeople of the souqs & the contemporary art & design scene of the ville nouvelle.

The region has been inhabited by Berber farmers since Neolithic times, but the actual city was founded in 1062, by Abu Bakr ibn Umar, chieftain & cousin of Almoravid king Yusuf ibn Tashfin. In the 12^th century, the Almoravids built many madrasas (Koranic schools) & mosques in Marrakesh that bear Andalusian influences.

The red walls of the city, built by Ali ibn Yusuf in 1122 - 1123 & various buildings constructed in red sandstone during this period, have given the city the nickname of the "Red City" or "Ochre City". Marrakesh grew rapidly & established itself as a cultural, religious & trading centre for the Maghreb & sub-Saharan Africa;

After a period of decline, the city was surpassed by Fez, but in the early 16^th century, Marrakesh again became the capital of the kingdom. The city regained its pre-eminence under wealthy Saadian sultans Abu Abdallah al-Qaim & Ahmad al-Mansur, who embellished the city with sumptuous palaces such as the El Badi Palace (in 1578) & restored many ruined monuments.

Beginning in the 17^th century, the city became popular among Sufi pilgrims for Morocco's seven patron saints, who are entombed here. In 1912 the French Protectorate in Morocco was established & T'hami El Glaoui became Pasha of Marrakesh & held this position nearly throughout the duration of the protectorate until the role was dissolved upon independence of Morocco & the re-establishment of the monarchy in 1956.

Like many Moroccan cities, Marrakesh comprises of an old fortified city packed with vendors & their stalls (the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site), bordered by modern neighbourhoods, the most prominent of which is Gueliz.

The medina is a densely packed, walled medieval city dating to the Berber Empire, with mazelike alleys where thriving souks (marketplaces) sell traditional textiles, pottery & jewelry. A symbol of the city, and visible for miles, is the Moorish minaret of 12^th century Koutoubia Mosque.

It has the largest traditional market (souk) in Morocco, with some 18 souks selling wares ranging from traditional Berber carpets to modern consumer electronics. Crafts employ a significant percentage of the population, who primarily sell their products to tourists.

A vibrant city where east meets west - from the traditional old souq in the medina to the modern shops French patisseries, you will find this place fascinating.

Think of the medina's souqs as a shopping mall, but laid out according to a labyrinthine medieval-era plan. Whether you want to spice up your pantry with North African flavours or buy a carpet to add Moroccan-wow to your house, this magpie's nest of treasures is manna for shop-till-you-drop fanatics. The main market streets are Souq Semmarine & Souq El Kebir. If you see something you really like there, fine - but understand prices will be higher. Smaller souqs & souqs dedicated to artisan workshops such as Souq Haddadine (Blacksmith’s Souq), where you can buy direct from the producer, generally have the best deals.

You will understand how religion permeates the rhythms of daily life when you hear the sonorous call to prayer echo out from the mosques. As an old imperial capital, Marrakesh is home to some beautiful examples of Islamic architecture, most impressively the Ali Ben Youssef Madarsa & the Koutoubia minaret. The city also holds on to a heritage of the other religious communities that once helped it become a vibrant caravan town.

Marrakesh is particularly popular with the French & numerous French celebrities own property in the city.

It is one of North Africa’s largest centres of wildlife trade, despite the illegality of much of this trade & this trade can be found in the medina & adjacent squares. Tortoises are particularly popular for sale as pets but Barbary macaques & snakes can also be seen.

Marrakesh has several universities and schools, including Cadi Ayyad University. A number of Moroccan football clubs are located here and it also hosts World Touring Car Championship, Auto GP and FIA Formula Two Championship races.

Bahia Palace & the Dar Si Said are a riot of tilework & intricate floral painted-wood ceilings, the Saadian Tombs are enriched by an opulent bounty of marble, while the Musee de Mouassine & Musee de Marrakech are a showcase of swirling stucco & carved-wood design.

After relaxing for an hour, visit the souq to buy scrubbing gloves & Moroccan soap "savon noir" for the ‘hammam’ bath tomorrow, after the hike

Evening, accompanied by the Tour-guide, proceed for dinner at Jamaa El Fna.

The iconic & chaotic square is the hub of the Marrakesh Medina. By day the busy market place is filled with spice traders, orange juice stalls, snake charmers, medicine men & performing monkeys.

By night it undergoes a complete transformation to an open air dining market & the aroma of local foods entice customers to dine on, among other things, the Moroccan stable tagine, while groups of locals sing songs & tell stories while crowds gather around. The Square is a hive of live street entertainment every evening - there are belly dancers, acrobats, storytellers, musicians, buskers & much more to keep you amused for hours.

Follow the locals for the tastiest dishes & when you find a stall you want to dine at, grab a seat on the benches & get ready to eat!

Probably more appealing for female visitors, there are numerous women at Djemaa el Fna who will decorate your hands, arms, feet & legs with an intricate temporary henna tattoo. The dye eventually fades away, leaving you with no permanent skin patterns. Choose your design & relax as the women skillfully apply the henna to your skin. Be sure, however to only use brown henna; black henna can cause allergic reactions & chemical burns.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions and / or make arrangements).

Marrakesh is a city that sums up all of Morocco's exotic North African charm. The city's name provided the root for the name of the country itself, spelling out this town's importance through the ages. Within the hustle of the medina, you will find the city's main points of interest in a dizzying meld of ancient and new. Just soaking up the atmosphere here tops the things to do list, with snake charmers & smooth shop touts both competing for your attention amid a noisy, colorful bustle that encapsulates Morocco's vibrant soul.

For shoppers, this city is famous as a frenzied hub for bargain hunting. For history loving tourists, the many museums & monuments are some of the country's sightseeing must-dos. And for those who just want to dive into local culture, the medina offers Moroccan life in all its hectic glory.  

Morning, at 08.00 am, meet the knowledgeable Tour-guide in the Lobby & embark on an exciting 8 hour experience to uncover the mystery of Marrakesh's enchanting souks & sights.

First stop will be at the Ben Youssef Madrasa Koranic school (Islamic school of learning) built in 1565 by the Saadians. It is the largest theological college in Morocco. The warrens of rooms (with student cells that once were home to 900 pupils) are clustered around small internal courtyards in typical Islamic architecture style, but the main internal courtyard is the real highlight here. The fine zellige tiling, stalactite ceilings, cedar-wood detailing & Kufic inscriptions used as decoration across the courtyard's interior make this madarsa one of Morocco's most beautiful buildings & a star medina attraction.

Walk to Koutoubia Mosque, built in 1162, Marrakesh's most famous landmark with its striking, 70 meter    tall minaret visible for miles in every direction. The mosque was & is one of the great achievements of Almohad architecture. Local Marrakesh legend tells that when first built, the muezzin (man who calls the faithful to pray) for this mosque had to be blind as the minaret was so tall that it overlooked the ruler's harem. Non-Muslims are not allowed into the mosque itself.

Then, see the 16^th century burial ground - home to 66 members of the Saadian dynasty, which ruled over Marrakesh between 1524 & 1668. The Tombs here include that of the ruler Al-Mansour, his successors & their closest family members. It is a rambling, atmospheric place, with the mausoleums set amid a rather overgrown garden. In particular, the main Mausoleum (where Moulay Yazid is buried) has a fine surviving mihrab (prayer niche). The Saadian Tombs were walled up by their Alawite successors & were only rediscovered in the early 20^th century.

Spend time in Djemaa El Fna (assembly place of the nobodies) - the fantastic large square at the entry to the medina which is the center of Marrakesh life. It is a vibrant hub of bric-a-brac stalls, musicians, storytellers, fortune-tellers & snake charmers that never seems to rest. Here, the entire spectrum of Moroccan life enfolds before you. If being down among the thrum becomes too much, it is also easy to escape to one of the many surrounding rooftop cafes & restaurants where you can survey the crazy scene from above.

Next, marvel at the opulent decor of the magnificent Bahia Palace built in the late 19^th century as the residence of the Grand Vizier Bou Ahmed, who served Sultan Moulay al-Hassan I. The interior decoration is a dazzling display of zellige tiles, painted ceilings & ornate wrought-iron features showcasing the opulent lives of those high up in the sultan's favor at that time. The massive marble grand courtyard & opulent salons of the haram area are the two main attractions, while the lush internal courtyard of the grand riad, with its banana-leaf plants & citrus trees, is a tranquil respite from the city.

Continue on to see another landmark - Badi Palace. The ruins of Al-Mansour's once grand palace are one of the kasbah area's most atmospheric sights. The Saadian ruler built the opulent palace, with pavilions set amid a mammoth garden of reflective pools, during his triumphant reign, but it was plundered & destroyed soon after. Now the sparse remnants of mosaic-tiled floors, ruined pavilions, and the high enclosing walls are all that remain. There are excellent views across the medina from the top of the walls, where storks have also built their nests.

After viewing the palace, head to the Mellah - the old Jewish quarter of Marrakesh, established in the 16^th century & now populated mainly by Muslims. The small synagogue here has been nicely restored & can be visited, as can the vast Jewish cemetery.

For many visitors, Marrakesh's labyrinthine Medina (old city) district is the town's star attraction. The narrow alleyways are a kaleidoscope of colors, scents & sounds, and bound to be the sightseeing highlight of your trip. As well as simply wandering (& getting lost) amid the bustling maze, there are myriad shopping opportunities, where you can put your haggling hat on & barter to your heart's content.

Shoppers shouldn't miss the Babouche (shoe) Souk, Chouari (carpenter's) Souk, El-Attarine (perfume & spice) Souk & the Cherratine (leather) Souk. Just west of the main souk area, at the end of Rue Bab Debbagh, you will find Marrakesh's tanneries, where animal skins are still dyed the old-fashioned way.

The sightseeing comes to an end.

You will be transferred to the hotel or you can continue to explore (on your own).

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions and / or make arrangements).

You might want to visit the famous Leather Tanneries.

From the tanneries to the stalls, leather is a hot commodity in Marrakesh and beautiful leather products adorn almost every souk in the city. If bags are you weakness, prepare to return with a lighter wallet: the selection is the best we’ve seen on our travels & it is hard to resist temptation! Counteract the first price with an offer between one third and one half and haggle your way to a final price from there!

Note that the quality of the leather varies widely in the souks as the bags can be treated in different ways in the tannery. A strong smell of urine can be common but the smell does fade with time so persevere!

Very early in the morning, meet The Journeys Driver / Rep & depart for Fez.

Arrive by afternoon & Check-in at the hotel & relax.

Fez is a imperial Moroccan city often referred to as the country’s cultural capital. The city has been called the "Mecca of the West" & the "Athens of Africa," a nickname it shares with Cyrene in Libya.

Casablanca might be your first impression of Morocco, but don't be fooled, it is a stark contrast to what you are about to experience in the UNESCO World Heritage listed medieval city of Fes.

Although Fez lost its influence at the beginning of the 19^th century, it remains a supremely self-confident city whose cultural & spiritual lineage beguiles visitors. Something of the medieval remains in the world’s largest largest urban pedestrian zones (car-free urban areas) where donkeys cart goods down the warren of alleyways & while there are still ruinous pockets, government efforts to restore the city are showing results.

Fez was founded under the Idrisid rule during the 8^th - 9^th century & it consisted of two autonomous & competing settlements. The migration of 2000 Arab families in the early 9^th century gave the nascent city its Arabic character.

After the downfall of the Idrisid dynasty, several empires came & went until the 11^th century when the Almoravid Sultan Yusuf ibn Tashfin united the two settlements & rebuilt the city, which became today's Fes el Bali quarter.

Under the Almoravid rule, the city gained the reputation for the religious scholarship & mercantile activity. Fez was expanded during the Almohad rule & became the largest city in the world during 1170-1180 with the estimated population of 200,000.

Fez reached its zenith in the Marinid-era, regaining the status as the capital & in its heyday, Fez attracted scholars & philosophers, mathematicians & lawyers, astronomers & theologians. Craftsmen built them houses & palaces, kings endowed mosques & madrasas (religious schools) and merchants offered exotic wares from the silk roads & sub-Saharan trade routes. These buildings were considered the hallmarks of Moorish & Moroccan architectural styles & some have survived up until today.

Marinid sultans also founded Fes Jdid quarter, where newer palaces & gardens were established. During this time, the Jewish population of the city grew as well, with the Mellah (Jewish quarter) attracting the Jewish migrants from other North African regions.

After the overthrow of the Marinid dynasty, the city largely declined and replaced by Marrakesh for political and cultural influence, but remained as the capital under the Wattasids & modern Morocco until 1912.

Today, the city largely consists of two walled old medina quarters, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Fes el Bali & Fes Jdid with medieval Marinid architecture, vibrant souks & old-world atmosphere and modern urban area of Ville Nouvelle constructed during the French colonial era.  The Medina is home to religious schools such as the 14^th century Bou Inania & Al Attarine, both decorated with elaborate cedar carvings & ornate tile work.

Fez has the oldest continuously functioning university in the world - University of Al Quaraouiyine founded in 859. It is also the location of the 11^th century Chouara Tannery, one of the oldest tanneries in the world.

Some 90,000 people still live in the Fez medina. It can seem like it’s in a state of perpetual pandemonium; some visitors fall instantly in love & others recoil in horror. But its charms are many. Seemingly blind alleys lead to squares with exquisite fountains & streets bursting with aromatic food stands, rooftops unveil a sea of minarets & stooped doorways reveal tireless artisans. 

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions and / or make arrangements).

You might try to go for a short walk in the maze-like alleyways of the souq and watch the sun set from a fantastic vantage point over this amazing old city.  

Morning, meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby at 08.00 am & embark on an exciting 4 hour experience to explore this mesmerizing city.

Start with the Palais Royale & feel the Royalty at Morocco's most stunning palace. The entrance - the mighty Golden Gates - an stunning example of modern restoration, will leave you imagining about the magnificent architectural details & how grand is the inside of the palace. As the 80 hectares of palace grounds are not open to the public. Visitors must be satisfied with viewing its imposing brass doors, surrounded by fine zellige (colourful geometric mosaic tilework) & carved cedar wood. Note the lemon trees to one side - the Tour-guides are prone to plucking the fruit to demonstrate the juice’s astringent cleaning properties on the palace gates.  

Not far from the royal palace is the walled Fez Jewish Quarter in Fez El Jdid established in the 14^th century & considered the oldest of the Jewish Quarters in Morocco, a refuge for Jews, thus creating a mellah, analogous to the European ghetto. The records suggest the move was orchestrated to offer the Jews greater protection & they repaid the favour of the sultan with their loyalty during conflict. Around 250,000 Jews once lived here, but now only a handful remain in Fez - all in the ville nouvelle. Their old houses remain, with their open balconies looking onto the streets a marked contrast to Muslim styles. Enjoy a stroll & marvel at its ornate balconies & windows. 

Continue to Bab Boujeloud, commonly known as the “Blue Gate,” which serves as the principle entrance to the old Medina in Fez. Its glittering mosaic tiles & grand archway have made it one of Morocco’s most famed gateways. When you stroll beneath the famous blue gate of Bab Boujeloud, you are seemingly transported 1,000 years back in time. The bustling cafes & outdoor markets quickly give way to quiet narrow streets. Enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the old medina of Fez. Don't forget your cameras! Here, visit a pottery co-operative that highlights the art of Moroccan pottery & handmade tile through workshops & witness the entire process.

Be impressed by the University of Al-Karaouine that was founded in 859 AD established by an incredible woman, Fatima al-Fihria, a Lady who had fled her country of Tunisia for the kingdom of Morocco.  It is considered by UNESCO as the oldest continuously operating degree-awarding university in the world. The University features beautiful Andalusian ornamental details & its libraries have several extremely valuable documents written on gazelle parchment.

But along the way, you will stop to visit the Shrine of Moulay Idriss II, the patron saint & founder of the city of Fez, who ruled Morocco from 807 to 828 & is considered the main founder of the city & of the first Moroccan Islamic state.

The whitewashed town of national importance - Moulay Idriss sits astride two green hills in a cradle of mountains amidst a picturesque setting, a pretty historic core & is one of the country’s most important pilgrimage sites, thanks to the tomb of the city's founder.

Moulay Idriss’ holy status kept it closed to non-Muslims until 1912 & it wasn't until 2005 that non-Muslims were allowed to stay overnight in the town. Its previous inaccessibility has helped protect the town's peaceful way of life & those who do stay are invariably charmed.

We then take a walk through the souq (market), a maze of narrow alleyways crammed with shops selling all sorts of treasures. The souq bulges with beautiful handmade crafts (copper & brass stained glass lamps, carpets, colourful spices, leather bags…). Haggling is all part of the fun & games to get the price down too. There is time to shop along the way, because let's face it, you won't be able to resist it!

The sightseeing ends & you will be transferred to the hotel or you can continue exploring the area (on your own).

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions and / or make arrangements).

Early morning, meet The Journeys Driver / Rep & proceed for a full day excursion to see the Blue tinted mountain city of Chefchaouen, travelling along on the road winding up a rocky landscape that is surprisingly lush & green in the summer.

Welcome to Chefchaouen, beautifully perched beneath the raw peaks of the Rif. The mountains above the city give the appearance of two horns – and it’s believed that this is where the name Chefchaouen comes from (literally meaning “watch the horns” in a local dialect).

This is one of the prettiest towns in Morocco, an artsy, mountain village famous for all the houses & shops painted different shades of blue. A magical place to get lost in - transports you into a different world.

The city’s signature color is a variety of calming shades of blue that lower your blood pressure in seconds. Known as Morocco’s “blue pearl” or “blue city”, the buildings in Chefchaouen are painted using a talc or chalk-based paint that looks so beguiling.

The sun beats down mercilessly, setting every color around ablaze &, since everything is blue, you will feel like you are walking in a mythical sky kingdom. Exploring a labyrinth of narrow blue alleyways smelling of spice, incense, flowers & fresh oranges, is a photographer’s dream!

Why Is Chefchaouen Blue?

Some will tell you that it’s a symbol of Jewish solidarity. In the 1930s, a sizeable population of Jewish refugees arrived in Chefchaouen, fleeing Nazi persecution & the growing threat of war. The blue is meant to represent peace, safety & the power of heaven. In this version of the story, blue walls rapidly spread outward from the city’s Jewish quarter, until the entire city was aglow.

Kalam farigh! others would say (that is Arabic for “nonsense”).  They will say the tradition of painting walls blue is Jewish, certainly, but goes back to the time of the city’s founding, in the 15^th century, when it was built around a fortress used to defend inhabitants against Portuguese invaders. At this time, local Moroccans lived alongside Jews & Moriscos (former Muslims who had converted to Christianity) for a century or more.

The narrow streets of Chefchaouen (or Chaouen, as the locals call it) make no attempt to soften the impact of the hillside the city is built on. In some cases, stone steps march straight up the slope, giving your legs a good workout.  But when the streets open into public squares, look above the city, towards the nearby Riff mountains.

Most travelers seek out Chefchaouen, to wander aimlessly through the narrow streets & alleys, painted in an endless array of blue - turquoise, powder blue, celeste, robin’s-egg, indigo, cyan, periwinkle.

Markets of the blue city are captivating, vendors are friendly & know the skills of marketing. You can wander around & also shop for your loved ones. Look for colorful blankets or lamps in the souks hidden throughout the medina. Leather & weaving workshops line its steep cobbled lanes.

Marvel at the variety of beautiful doorways & detailed tile work that decorate each residence. The old medina is a delight of Moroccan & Andalusian influence with red-tiled roofs, bright-blue buildings & narrow lanes converging on busy Plaza Uta El Hammam & its restored kasbah.

While roaming in the blue washed streets & alleys, you will also meet cats.

If you are a cat person, you are going to love Chefchaouen. It is a cat city for sure - a bit like Istanbul. Locals feed them, however they generally live outside in the street as strays. You will find cats in alleys, cats on the stairs & cats in the souks, roaming through restaurants & on terraces. Or, hiding in trees & bushes or stretched out on sidewalks. If you want to get a cat’s attention in Morocco, try hissing. It is a great way to get them to pose for photos! Meow.

This is a city designed to stop you in your tracks for all the right reasons. Whatever is going on in your life, especially if you are feeling weary of travel, Chefchaouen wants you to put your feet up, drink mint tea & take it deliciously easy.

Then, when you are ready, you can go for a walk within the ancient city walls & let the medina work its soothing magic upon you. In a country known for being a bit chaotic, the blue city of Chefchaouen is a pleasant oasis.

Sit down at a street cafe, order a steaming glass of mint tea & watch locals dressed in djellaba robes go about their daily life. Soak it all in - the whole Moroccan experience.

Visit the large 15^th century Kasbah fortress & dungeon located in Chefchaouen’s main square - Place Outa el Hammam. It is pretty easy to find this red-walled structure among all the blue buildings.

Built in in the Andalusian-Maghrebian style in 1471 by Mulay Ali Ben Mussa Ben Rached, to defend Chefchaouen from attacks by the Portuguese & Spanish, the Kasbah features a beautiful garden & small ethnographic museum. Climb the towers inside for some great views of the city & the Grand Mosque.

With a cleaning ritual that hasn’t changed for centuries, a visit to the hammam will leave you steamed, sweated, pummelled and scrubbed until you feel like every inch of your skin has been upgraded.

The main public hammam is across the square from the main mosque, Jama’a Kabir, and there are different attendance times for men and women. You will also have to go shopping first for your own plastic sandals, soap, shower scrub & towel. The hammam experience is an integral part of life in Morocco!

If you feel more adventurous, hike (45 minutes each way) to the old Spanish Mosque perched on a hilltop overlooking the blue city, built by the Spanish in the 1920’s. The mile-long hike passes by prickly pear and agave cacti - with wonderful views of Chefchaouen at the top.

Because the mosque is kind of abandoned, non-muslims are allowed to go inside and take a look. Make sure to bring water though, because on a sunny day it gets hot up there. The trail to the mosque crosses the Ras el’Ma river, where you will see local women doing laundry the traditional way in cold mountain water.

The blue city as a long history of hippie-culture & the production of hashish - the most basic & traditional form of marijuana - THC concentrate. Morocco is the world’s top supplier.

There are farm tours, where guests can drive outside the city to the Marijuana fields & see the demonstration on how they produce hash from kif, THC crystals extracted from the plant. Just be wary… it is illegal to produce, trade & smoke hash in Morocco, even in a place like Chefchaouen.

Cascades d’Akchour is a trail that leads to a pair of Waterfalls in the Rif Mountains. The trail is full of lush green vegetation, an interesting natural stone bridge called “God’s Bridge”, & a beautiful swimming hole with a waterfall as your reward at the end. You will find makeshift “cafes” along the way, which serve Moroccan food & tea during this long & somewhat steep hike. It’s nice, but a little touristy.

One of the top reasons anyone should travel to Morocco is the amazing food, & you can find all your favorites in the Blue City. Stuff yourself on kefta (lamb meatballs), tajines (slow cooked stews in clay pots) & mountains of couscous.

Oranges and orange juice is a big deal in Morocco - and super delicious. Hot mint tea in Morocco is a sign of hospitality, friendship & tradition. It is one of the most delicious treats you will find in the whole country, with a rich flavor you’ll struggle to find elsewhere.

After enjoying a full day of exploring, drive back to your hotel in Fez.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration (we would be happy to offer suggestions and / or make arrangements).

Early morning, meet The Journeys Driver / Rep & depart for Tangier.

Arrive by afternoon & Check-in at the hotel & relax.

Tangier – a Moroccan port on the Strait of Gibraltar has been Europe's gateway to Africa for centuries since Phoenician times.  Its blend of cultures & influences is unique in Morocco - for much of its history it wasn't even governed by Morocco.

There is some evidence that Tangier might be 12,000 years old, though the most recent settlement discovered was in the 5^th century B.C. as part of the Carthagian Empire, making Tangier a relative young one at a mere 2,500 years old. The Greeks called this settlement Tingis, from where it derives its current name.

Through the year, Tangier passed through the Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Visigoths & the Umayyad Empire before finally joining modern day Morocco in the 11^th century A.D. However, successive wars, disputes & trades saw Tangier constantly changing national affiliation, with Portugal & Spain batting control of the city back & forth from 1471-1662, when it was given as part of a dowry for Catherine of Braganza in her marriage to Charles II, the King of England. The British only had control of Tangier for 22 years & then it was given back to Morocco.

Tangier has always carried a slightly seedy allure, in part because of its time as a semi-independent international zone that attracted eccentric foreigners, artists & spies.

The Moroccan port city that lured Paul Bowles & Jean Genet is in turnaround mode, but its classic draws - iconic cafes, long beaches - remain.

They all rushed to Tangier. From the 1920s to the 1950s, when it was a freewheeling “international zone” governed (barely) by a consortium of mostly European powers, Tangier attracted expatriates & travelers seeking illicit substances & activities in a palm-fringed seaside crossroads where Africa almost touches Europe.

Barbara Hutton, the Woolworth heiress & the billionaire Malcolm Forbes built palaces & hosted celebrities. Beat writers, from William S. Burroughs to Paul & Jane Bowles, wrote in a haze of drugs & booze. And the future enfants terribles of Moroccan literature, Mohamed Choukri & Mohammed Mrabet, stalked the cafes.

Officially sanctioned neglect later gave it a dismal reputation, and visitors were often quick to flee its sleaze & hustle. Reviled, the Moroccan monarchy let the city decay. By the 1970s Tangier was a seedy has-been.

Today the city is undergoing a turnaround. Prized by King Mohammed VI, who assumed the throne in 1999, Tangier is building a huge new port, a green seafront & Africa’s first high-speed TGV train line to Casablanca. The King has taken a great interest in promoting Tangier as a high-end tourist destination. There is a new luxury port abutting the ancient medina of Tangier where yachts belonging to the rich & famous port as part of their tour of the Mediterranean Sea. Much of the medina has been recently restored. Many of the main streets & boulevards have new palm trees as part of a city-wide beautification project.

Even with all of this renovation & restoration, there are still many historical & cultural monuments preserved in & around Tangier for you to discover… not to mention a lot of beach!

Monuments & Museums are getting face-lifts & the streets of both the centuries-old Moorish medina & the colonial-era neighborhoods are sprouting boutique hotels, design shops & Euro-Moroccan restaurants. Its whitewashed hillside medina is home to the Dar el Makhzen, a palace of the sultans that is now a museum of Moroccan artifacts. The American Legation Museum, also in the medina, documents early diplomatic relations between the U.S. & Morocco in an 1821 Moorish-style former consulate.

Contemporary Tangier could hardly be more different. Investment has flowed in & the white city gleams with an air of confidence. The corniche bustles, entrepreneurs in the new business district have replaced the hustlers & a new marina is under construction, along with the new Tangier's cultural life is buzzing in a way it hasn't done since the 1950s.

There is even an electro festival, Nuits Sonores Tanger, created in 2013 & held every October. Couple those with classic draws - long beaches, artisanal goods, a thriving cafe culture - & Tangier is ripe for a global return.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions and / or make arrangements).

Morning, meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby at 09.00 am & embark on an exciting full day 8 hour experience to explore this mesmerizing city, reminiscent of the plots in many spy novels that were staged here.

Hop on to the Coach & proceed to see some iconic landmarks outside the city, travelling along the main street which is the French quarter. Pass by Spanish quarter & the American Quarter called small California. The drive takes you through La Montagne an exclusive suburb on the pine-covered headland, with royal palaces and villas - Government Palace, the Palace of the King of Morocco & the Palace of the King of Saudi Arabia. 

Visit Cap Spartel Lighthouse in the northwestern extremity of Africa’s Atlantic Coast.

According to legend, the Mediterranean Sea merged with the Atlantic Ocean at Cap Spartel & it was there that the Strait of Gibraltar was created. Situated several miles to the west of the city & 360 feet above the sea, it dominates from the top of a cliff covered in shrubs.

In Roman times the Cape was known as Ampelusia; it then took the name of the Spartel archipelago that had been engulfed by the waters of the strait in 9400 BC. According to certain historians, these islands were the location of the much sought-after Atlantis. They resulted in the sand bank there, known by local fishermen as Majouan or Spartel.

The lighthouse at Cap Spartel was the first to be erected in Morocco & recently celebrated its 150^th anniversary. It was inaugurated in 1864 & serves to stop vessels from approaching too close to the coast. Of great beauty, it is not functional now but remains one of the emblems of the city & region. The beaches to the south are clean & quiet outside the summer season, so you can find your own private cove.

Below Cap Spartel, Plage Robinson stretches off to the south - a great place for a bracing beach walk.

Drive along the Atlantic coast where you can ride the camels on the beach, before heading to Grottes d’Hercule, a must-see for first-time visitors.  The cave system takes its name from the mythical hero Hercules. Legend has it that Hercules allegedly slept in the cave before his 11^th labor, to obtain golden apples from the garden of Hesperides, located in nearby Lixus. On his way to the garden, Hercules had to cross the Atlas Mountains, but instead of doing so, he smashed through them & as a result created the Strait of Gibraltar.

One of the area’s top attractions, the Caves both natural & manmade, were discovered in 1906 & extend for 30 kilometers. It features two openings, one to land & one to sea & has been in use since prehistoric times & from 1920s, these Caves have been quarried for millstones  (you can see still the indentations on the cave walls & ceiling),  worked by prostitutes & used as a venue for private parties by rich celebrities from Tangier.

Caverns where Hercules allegedly rested during his labors offer a much-photographed view of the Atlantic from within the cave resembling a distinctive map in the shape of Africa. The “Map of Africa” is believed to have been created by the Phoenicians & is one of the most intriguing aspects of the cave.

Camel rides are available here, just before the entrance to the caves on the right. A beach ride is a special treat.

Drive back to the historical Kasbah of Tangier, Medina & Markets and embark on a 3 hour walking tour to discover old medina of Tangier, which will give you a good feel for life in the city - both past & present. 

Pass by the magnificent mosaic studded minaret overlooking the Mediterranean Sea., the Grand Socco, & the Mendoubia Park.

See the fruit & vegetable markets & join the locals enjoying lunch (not included - direct payment) in one of the restaurants in the souk.

Continue strolling in the old medina with its craftsmanship & narrower streets.  

Visit the Jewish Quarter, Synagogue & Graveyard and the American legation before ending the walk in the Petit socco, famous with its multitude of small hotels which previously accommodated famous artists & writers such as Matisse, Camille Saint Saens, Paul Bowles…...

The sightseeing concludes & you are transferred back to the hotel.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions and / or make arrangements).

Or continue exploring independently & return to the hotel (on your own).

Some of the interesting places you may want to visit -

The American Legation Museum close to the aptly named “Bab Merican,” is the only US national monument outside of the United States. There is a large library specializing in North Africa, many paintings from Americans, Europeans & Moroccans, and several small models recreating some historic battles. The real treat is the “Paul Bowles” wing, named for the American author who called Tangier home for 50 years and died here in 1999.

Museum of Moroccan Art & Antiquities often just called the “Kasbah Museum,” houses various relics from the Stone Age through the turn of the 20^th century, displaying the rich history of Tangier. Here, you can see evidence of the many people who have inhabited or ruled this region. Not to be missed is a beautiful mosaic taken from the Roman city of Volubilis & taking a nice stroll through the Sultan’s Gardens.

The magnificent Church of St. Andrew just at the edge of the medina, off the bustling Grand Socco, is a real tribute to the harmony of Christianity & Islam. Stroll in the quiet gardens, the final resting place for many of the Church’s foreign worshippers / international community, before ducking into the church. Note the Lord’s Prayer written in exquisite Arabic calligraphy just about the pulpit & the numerous Andalusian-Moroccan touches throughout.

Full day is at leisure to relax or explore independently (we would be happy to offer suggestions on how to avail the opportunity to discover Tangier in depth & make the necessary arrangements).

Some suggestions -

Accompanied by the tour-guide, you may want to try the Food Tour.

Starting the Walk from one the oldest market in the city,  you will have the opportunity to taste some local specialities like the cheese, some fresh fruits, Moroccan Pastry ... walking between the narrow streets of the city is such a fun experience especially with a passionate guide.

With more than 06 taste stops as well as a full meal, you will try & taste dishes that characterize the local cuisine & part of the culinary history of Morocco. You will have the opportunity to taste many classics of Moroccan cuisine & a wide choice of local products while taking advantage of many explanations & anecdotes about the city & the products tasted.

Enjoy a 3 course meal (included) at a restaurant with a view. Dessert is scheduled in Elhafa cafe.

Continue to Alkasbah & have a cup of mint tea with some freshly baked bread butter & honey, take your time to chill hearing the sound of water.

Feel free to ask your questions and share your culinary experiences. The more you interact, the more you will discover! (The taste program can change according to the season and according to your preferences).

Or Shop your way through Tangier markets, souks & bazaars on a private Tangier shopping tour that takes the stress out of finding the city’s best treasures.

Start with a drive along the bay of Tangier then through the colonial city dating from the beginning of the 20^th century & the residential quarter “La Montagne”, housing the King’s Palace & the homes of some celebrities among them great artists, painters & writers who were attracted by Tangier like Barbara Hutton, Paul Bowls, William Boroughs, Kee Van Dongen et all.

In the Kasbah’s main Square, a variety of entertainment & cultural activities take place for the public particularly the celebrated ” Cercle de musique arabo-andalouse”, the African rhythm of Gnaoua group in addition to snake charmers who perform every day for tourists & locals.

Another unforgettable experience is the medina (medieval city) with its countless alleys & narrow streets, hidden architectural treasures & souks where visitors can purchase some beautiful handmade items, providing a good opportunity to be in a direct contact with the locals.

Visit of the souks & handicraft quarters displaying a variety of items & the famous gran & petit socco.

Get local tips from the Tour-guide on what to buy, where to go & how to haggle. Learn to bargain for handicrafts & other unique Tangier souvenirs.

Like all good things, the journey to the enchanting Morocco comes to an end but we are hopeful you will visit again.

Early morning, you will be met by a Journeys Rep / Driver who will ensure your comfort & & transfer you to Terminal? - Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, for your onward journey.  B

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