Imperial Morocco & The Blue City

Welcome to Morocco! Upon arrival at Casablanca airport, you'll be met and transferred to our hotel where you have the remainder of the day at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll around the souks in the new medina or sit back and watch the world go by with a pot of tea at Rick's cafe.

This morning after breakfast, we visit the incredible Hassan II Mosque, rising 210 meters into the air, the third largest mosque in the world is covered in ornate traditional tile work.

After exploring Casablanca, we make our way to Rabat, Morocco's charming capital, which is ours to explore this afternoon. Take a stroll along the long stretch of beach that starts behind the medina, or just up the hill from the medina is the well-preserved Kasbah of the Udayas, dating back to the 12th century.

Please note: For those who have opted to start in Marrakech you will be transferred to Casablanca on the morning of day 2 to meet the rest of the group. (B)

Departing Rabat this morning we visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Dating back to 40AD we take time to explore the triple arched Tingis gate, the columns of the Capitoline temple, the Basilica, the courthouse and much more. We'll then continue to Chefchaouen, nestled in the heart of the Rif Mountains, the city boasts incredible blue-washed buildings and majestic views of the surrounding landscape.

The rest of the afternoon is ours to independently wander round the Plaza Uta el-Hammam in the heart of the Medina, or perhaps try some of the local street food and watch the sun set. (B)

After some free time to relax or continue exploring the city this morning, we make our way to Talassemtane National Park. Located on the eastern side of the Rif Mountains, Talassemtane boasts a wide range of landscapes, as well as housing a number of plant species and mammals including the Barbary macaques and the otter. We make our way to the Akchour Falls and God's Bridge where we relax with a picnic lunch while soaking up the breath-taking views. Return to Chefchaouen for an afternoon at leisure. (B/L)

Bordered on the foothills of the Atlas Mountains lies the imperial city of Fes, the oldest and largest medieval city in the world.

On arrival we enjoy a guided tour of Fes el Bali - the old walled city, absorbing the chaos of the souks and getting lost in the medina's labyrinth layout. During the tour visit one of the pungent leather tanneries that Fes is famous for and see the giant dye pits. The remainder of the day is at leisure - why not take part in an optional Tagine Making Class or a night of Moroccan entertainment and food at a restaurant in town (both payable locally). (B)

Departing Fes this morning, our journey takes us past the Middle Atlas Mountains and the orange groves around Aforer before we ascend into the rugged High Atlas Mountains to the picturesque lake of Bin El Ouidane.

Upon arrival relax by the swimming pool, or on the terrace at your lake-shore hotel and enjoy the spectacular views. (B)

We continue our journey through the Atlas Mountains this morning, where almond trees and juniper covered rocky ridges abound. We stop to admire the spectacular Cascades d'Ouzoud, - the highest waterfall in North Africa, before travelling on to Marrakech via the berber town of Demnate.

This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of Marrakech's old medina. Inside the rose coloured medina walls is a tangle of winding streets and alleys that open onto verdant gardens and bustling souks. At the heart of the medina is Djemaa El Fna, the city's exuberant market place and towering over it, is the famous Koutoubia Mosque, the tallest building in the city. Djemaa El Fna springs to life in the evening so be sure to return to the square this evening and experience it in all its glory! (B)

Our amazing tour of Morocco ends today after hotel check out. An included onward departure transfer to airport will be provided. Passengers who have opted to end their tour in Casablanca will depart early this morning. (B)