Morocco: Chefchaouen, Fes & Casablanca Wonder

Upon arrival, allow your imagination to carry you away to a realm of kasbahs, medinas, and exotic landscapes on your travels from the airport to the hotel. Tangier, with its rich history and location as a cultural crossroads between Europe and Asia, offers visitors a unique blend of Arab, Spanish, Portuguese, and French influences reflected in the architecture, culture, and atmosphere. Home to a vibrant medina and beautiful beaches. It has also long been a haven for writers and artists. We extend a warm welcome to Morocco, inviting you to transform your thoughts into reality and discover the country's incredible charm Arrive in Tangier at any time and transfer to your hotel. Meet your fellow group members at the welcome meeting in the evening and get all the important information about the adventure ahead. Afterwards, head to a nearby restaurant for a delicious welcome dinner with new friends.

Included Experiences

• Arrival Transfer: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
• Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Head north and witness the changing landscapes, from farmland to small villages. Keep an eye out for large stork nests perched atop buildings and mosques. Upon arrival, you'll be instantly charmed by Chefchaouen's picturesque alleyways and pervasive shades of blue. A transformation from the brown hues of the countryside to the otherworldly colours. Travel to Chefchaouen today with a stop in Tetouan for a city visit where you will explore significant landmarks and learn a bit about their history. Pass through the souks of the old Medina where villagers bring fresh produce to sell daily and finish at the old Spanish fortress on the hilltop. Arrive to Chefchaouen in time for lunch on your own before an orientation walk. Then enjoy free time and dinner at your leisure this evening amid the stunning blue of the city.

Included Experiences

• Tetouan Guided Walk: Spend 2 hours on a walking city tour of Tétouan and explore serveral significant landmarks while learning about the local history. Stops include Moulay el Mehdi square, El Feddan Square, the Royal Palace, and the Kasbah of Sidi Al-Mandri. Pass through the souks of the old medina and conclude the walk with a visit to an old Spanish fortress on a hilltop overlooking city.
• CEO-led Walk Around Chefchaouen: Begin your time in Chefchaouen with a CEO-led walk around the town and stroll through the mesmerizing streets where beauty seems to appear around every corner in a place adorned in shades of blue.
• Free Time: Spend a free afternoon on your own in Chefchaouen. Discover the Medina, wander the blue alleys, and try more specialties of the region at the local market, like goat cheese. Visit the Kasbah of Chefchaouen, a treasure trove of cultural heritage in Morocco. As the day begins to close opt to go with your CEO and watch the sun set from the Spanish Mosque.

Lace up your hiking boots for a scenic trek into the Rif Mountains. The range is known for its narrow valleys, rivers and waterfalls with incredible views and lush scenery. The hike allows travellers to experience local culture and dramatic views. Return to Chefchaouen for further immersion into the pace of life in this charming blue city. Trek through the scenic Rif Mountains today with views of mountains and valleys. Pass small waterfalls and simply enjoy the beauty surrounding you. Return to Chefchaouen for a free afternoon of exploration.

Included Experiences

• Hiking in the Rif Mountains: Lace up your hiking boots, and explore this city nestled in Africa’s northernmost mountain range. Trek through the scenic Rif Mountains – the perfect natural playground for adventure seekers.
• CEO-led Sunset Hike to the Spanish Mosque: Join your CEO on a hike to the Spanish Mosque and savor the pure enchantment of watching the sun bid its golden adieu from the pinnacle of the Mosque. Perched atop this tranquil sanctuary, you'll be treated to a symphony of colors as the sky transforms into a breathtaking masterpiece, its vivid hues cascading over the distinctive blue hues of the city below.
• Free Time: During your free afternoon, discover the Medina of Chefchaouen. Walk around the beautiful blue alleys, and shop for some specialties of this region like their famous goat cheese. Check out the Kasbah of Chefchaouen, nestled within the enchanting embrace of the city.

From the stunning Rif Mountains to the expansive plains of Fes, today's journey through Morocco reveals a land of diverse beauty. Experience authentic rural life as you pass through traditional villages and lush farmland, preparing for the upcoming exploration of Roman ruins and Imperial cities. The group will head to Fes today, but not before stopping at Volubilis for a guided tour around the ancient city and explanation of its history and importance to Morocco and the culture behind it. Continue to Meknes for a foodie tour and guided visit to the ruins of the Imperial City. Arrive to Fes and get settled at your OMG Stay.

Included Experiences

• Volubilis Guided Tour: Listen to a certified local guide explain life in the Roman Empire at this UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the impressive, well-preserved Roman ruins. Peer into old bathhouses, marvel at the still-present mosaic floors, and gaze up at towering marble pillars. Hear stories about life in this Roman city that will leave you in awe of just how far their empire stretched.
• Meknés Traditional Food Tasting Experience: While in Meknés, enjoy a food tasting featuring traditional Moroccan dishes. Possible meal staples like tagine, couscous, harira, and zaalouk may be on the menu.
• Meknès City Tour: Enjoy a guided visit of the Imperial City of Meknes. The least visited of the Imperial cities; Meknes has a unique feel to it. Visit the Bab Mansour historic landmark, and 18th-century Bab El Khmiss, the ornamental gate to the city. Wander the bustling souk to browse the vast array of clothes, spices, handicrafts, and of course food. The visit also includes stops at Dar Jamai: The National Museum of Music and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.

Stepping into the Medina of Fes is an immersion into a living mosaic of history and culture, a sensation akin to time travel. Here, amidst the labyrinthine alleyways, you'll find yourself brushing shoulders with locals engaged in their daily rituals, a scene that has unfolded for over a millennium. The vibrant tapestry of commerce and daily life pulsates with an electrifying energy, a beautiful chaos unlike anything you've ever witnessed. Every turn reveals a new wonder: artisans meticulously crafting their wares, bustling food stalls offering aromatic delights, and hidden courtyards providing moments of serene respite. This is more than just a market; it's a lively, breathing entity where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present, inviting you to become a part of its timeless narrative. Tour the Fes Medina with a local guide and see the pulsing atmosphere of one of the world’s largest medinas with more than 9000 winding streets. Indulge in the delights of a delicious meal in a charming Riad nestled within the ancient walls of the bustling Medina. Enjoy free time later to relax and explore more of Fes on your own.

Included Experiences

• Fez Medina Guided Tour: Follow a local guide through the Fez medina, one of the world’s largest medinas with more than 9000 winding streets lying within 365 hectares. See buildings in the medina that date back to the 9th century; there are 350 mosques in the medina that are still in use today. Enter through one of the great gates into the chaos. Explore the artisans’ quarters as well as the many carpenters, bakers, butchers, and spice sellers. Visit the mausoleum and the Al Qarawiyin University. A highlight of the tour is the view of the famous Fez tannery from the balcony of a leather shop, where you can observe the men hard at work treating and dyeing the different hides. Take some time to shop for leather goods before returning to your hotel.
• Medina Lunch: Indulge in a delicious meal for lunch within the embrace of a charming Riad set within the ancient walls of the bustling Medina you just walked through.
• Free Time: Spend a free evening on your own in Fès.

A bustling seaport, Casablanca offers a fascinating blend of old and new, where diverse architectural styles meet to create a singularly Moroccan identity. It is the country’s largest city and holds great importance to history. Along the way visit Rabat and tour the city with a local guide to learn about the history as a Roman settlement and home to pirates. Travel from Fes to Casablanca and stop along the way for a guided city tour of Rabat. Learn about the historical significance of this place as a Roman settlement and home to pirates. See places like Kasbah des Oudaias, a walled quarter with gardens and views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Mohamed V Mausoleum, and the Hassan Tower. Arrive in Casablanca and have dinner at your leisure.

Included Experiences

• Guided Rabat Tour: Arrive to Rabat and start the city visit with your local guide. See Kasbah des Oudaias, a walled quarter with gardens and views of the Atlantic Ocean. Then visit the Medina and souks with a stop for mint tea and local sweets. Stop by the resting place of King Mohamed V and Hassan Tower.

Let your interests and energy level guide you today as you have the choice of 2 fantastic activities in Casablanca. Choose to experience the flavours of Morocco to explore and eat like a true local with fresh produce and authentic community life in action. Casablanca’s history is deeply rooted in its many sites throughout the city. Choose to visit these places and gain a deeper understanding and full picture of this wonderful city and country. This morning ride past Rick's Cafe and catch a quick glimpse of the filming location of 'Casablanca' movie. Then visit Hassan II Mosque before choosing between your OMG Day options. Choice of 2 different activities in Casablanca one involving food culture and the other involving historical sites. Return mid-afternoon and take some time to explore on your own. Dinner will be at your leisure this evening.

Included Experiences

• Hassan II Mosque Visit: See Africa’s largest mosque and the world’s tallest minaret (210 m, 689ft) with a visit to Hassan II Mosque. Admire this massive work of art completed in 1993, and strikingly located on land jutting into the Atlantic. The tour includes the prayer hall, ablution room, and museum. This mosque is one of the largest in the world, accommodating up to 25,000 worshippers inside and 80,000 in the courtyards
• Morocco Food Tour or Casablanca Historic Tour: Option 1: Experience Casablanca like a local. With a local guide you will sample street food from a range of high-quality products such as oysters, seafood, fresh juice, and more. Eat like a true local and observe authentic community life in action as you visit the central market with produce vendors and artisans. Option 2: Delve into the history of Casablanca with visits to all of the city's important sites. Drive to the lighthouse for panoramic views of the city by the sea, visit the historic courthouse, Notre Dame Church and its Grotto. Then, choose to walk or drive to a former Roman Catholic Church called Sacred Heart. Stop by the local seafood market and choose fresh fish here to be cooked for you at a local restaurant to have for lunch. Cap off the tour with a visit to Mohamed V square for a full introduction to this bustling urban environment.

Think coastal cities, pottery capitals and beautiful blue and white ceramics on today’s journey from Casablanca to Essoauira. Known for its strong winds, making it a popular destination for water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing. It's also renowned for its vibrant art scene, bustling fishing port, and the annual Gnaoua World Music Festival. The city's well-preserved medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adds to its charm and historical significance. You'll undoubtedly feel connected to this land and its people as you spend the next few days near the coast. Head to the coast of Morocco and the beauty of Essaouira with a stop in Safi along the way. You’ll tour the oldest port here famous for its pottery. Upon arrival to Essaouira enjoy a CEO-led orientation walk before enjoying the evening on your own.

Included Experiences

• Safi Visit: Safi is a must stop to see the largest pottery market in Morocco, which features some of the best examples of Moroccan pottery. Browse through some the beautiful inventory here and enjoy the hum of constant activity around you. Afterwards pay a visit to the old town and the ceramics market.
• Orientation Walk: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs.

Become immersed in traditional Amazigh culture with an introduction to Argan Oil and its importance to the local population. This oil is special due to its rich history, labor-intensive extraction process and its moisturizing benefits for skin, hair, and nails. The oil is endemic to this specific region in Morocco and your time today will allow you to appreciate and understand its story. Visit the home of a local family and enjoy a warm welcome with tea and a traditional Amazigh breakfast. Then take part in a hands-on cooking class and become immersed in the world of Argan with a fascinating introduction to the oil’s history followed by an Argan-making activity. Finally, savor the dishes you prepared during the cooking class as your delicious lunch. Spend the remainder of the afternoon on your own exploring Essaouira. Choose to partake in an optional hammam spa visit or catch some live Gnawa music at a fun local spot.

Included Experiences

• Argan Oil Co-operative Visit: Learn about the unique production of argan oil, common to many parts of Morocco. This beauty product is now all the rage around the world. See the entire process, from the argan fruit being cracked to the end product, and learn more about the many uses of this oil.
• Cooking Experience With a Local Family: Visit Hafida’s home and enjoy a warm welcome with tea and a traditional Amazigh breakfast, featuring Argan oil and Amlou. Afterward, take part in a hands-on cooking class and let your creations cook. Next, immerse yourself in the world of Argan with a fascinating introduction to its history, followed by an Argan-making activity. Finally, savor the dishes you prepared during the cooking class as your delicious lunch.
• Free Time: Don't waste a minute — get going and explore this seaside city.

Optional Experiences

• Traditional Hammam Experience in Essaouira: Visit a hammam, a great way to get squeaky clean and soothe sore muscles. Enjoy a body scrub and massage in a traditional Moroccan bathhouse. Begin with a dry or hot room to prepare your skin and body, followed by a hot steam room. Enjoy a body scrub and massage followed by a traditional mint tea.

See the mix of the old and new as you enjoy a day in Marrakech. Pass modern buildings and ancient structures that begin to tell the story of this bustling city and embrace all of the new cultural traditions, landscapes and delicious food that await. Witness the history, culture, and beauty of this old fortified city. Travel by private vehicle to Marrakech. Upon arrival enjoy lunch at the Women’s Riad to support various local female-led initiatives. Then, set out on a guided visit of the medina before seeing other important historical sites in the city. Later this afternoon enjoy free time in the city before meeting with the group to have a farewell dinner at stall 55 in Jamaa EL Fnna.

Included Experiences

• Marrakech Medina Guided Tour: Head into the maze of tiny streets and alleyways of the ancient medina to really get a taste of everyday life in Marrakech. Shop to your heart’s content in the souk and search out spices, traditional jalabas and slippers, or the famous Moroccan lanterns. Visit the Bahia Palace and the Ben Youssef Madrasa - an Islamic college in Marrakech built in the 14th-century and reconstructed in the 16th-century. Rebuilt by the Saadian Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib in 1564, it housed up to 800 students across 130 small dormitory cells. Explore this fine example of Moroccan craftsmanship, featuring a central marble courtyard with a reflective pool, elaborate Zellij tilework, and intricate carvings in cedar wood and stucco.
• Women's Riad Lunch: Sit down for an included group lunch at the Women's Riad and savour a delicious, home-style meal. While there, travellers will learn about the ways in which the riad is supporting the local community and women-led initiatives.

Today your adventure comes to an end, but the memories made during your time in Morocco will live on. Depart at any time.

Opt to get up early and catch the sunrise over Marrakech by pre-booking the Hot Air Balloon excursion. Please note this activity will not finish until 10am. We recommend booking your departing flight no earlier than 1pm to ensure you have enough time to make it to the airport.

Optional Experiences

• Hot Air Balloon Marrakech: Get an early start and watch the sunrise over the red dust, palm groves, and majestic open landscapes of Marrakech from a hot air balloon. After soaking up the sights, refuel with an authentic Amazigh breakfast in a Moroccan tent. *Please note if you purchase the Marrakech Hot Air Balloon ride on the final day of your tour you will not finish until 10am. We recommend booking your departing flight no earlier than 1pm to ensure you have enough time to make it to the airport.