Morocco: Imperial Cities - A Connections Boutique Group Journey (2023)

Arrive in Casablanca and transfer to your hotel. Gather tonight for a special welcome reception and dinner at a local restaurant.

Le Casablanca Hotel | Meals: D

Explore the towering Hassan II Mosque, a wildly intricate building that holds 25,000 worshipers. Soaring above the ocean, its minaret stands as the tallest religious structure in the world. Proceed to a winery outside Meknes for lunch at a restaurant offering views of the region's sunbathed vineyards and olive groves. Next, head to the city of Meknes. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco's imperial cities, it was built in the 17th century by the powerful sultan Moulay Ismail. Continue to Fes, arriving at day’s end at your boutique hotel set on a scenic hilltop.

Hotel Sahrai | Meals: BL

Step back in time into remarkably untouched Fes el-Bali (“Old Fes”), the cultural heart of Morocco. Wander among the 9,000 lanes, alleys and souks that shape its old quarter, where locals conduct their day-to-day business. Later, discover Fes el-Jadid (“New Fes”), home to the mellah, the old Jewish quarter, with its wrought iron-decorated windows and carved wood balconies. Tonight, dine at a traditional Moroccan riad (mansion with interior garden) with a female professor who leads a fascinating discussion about the role of women in modern Morocco.

Hotel Sahrai | Meals: BLD

After breakfast, drive to Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Morocco’s largest and most impressive Roman ruins, with excellently preserved mosaics. Continue to Rabat, the capital of Morocco, and view the 12th-century Moorish Hassan Tower. Visit the Mohammed V Mausoleum, dedicated to the founder of modern Morocco, and visit Oudayas Kasbah; its gate is considered among the most beautiful in the Moorish world.

Story Rabat | Meals: BL

Drive to Marrakech, arriving in the afternoon. Considered the “Pearl of the South,” Marrakech was once the capital of an empire that stretched from Spain to Senegal, and is known as the “Red City” for the distinctive hues of its brick buildings.

Hôtel & Ryads Barrière Le Naoura | Meals: B

Discover Marrakech’s exotic medina, the old walled section of the city. Explore the Dar El Bacha Palace or the Dar Si Said Museum of Moroccan Arts. Continue to El Badi Palace and view the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque, a landmark Islamic religious structure in Marrakech. Stroll through Djemaa el-Fna square, where dancers, mime artists and street musicians perform.

Hôtel & Ryads Barrière Le Naoura | Meals: BLD

Today, choose to remain in Marrakech or enjoy a full-day excursion to the High Atlas Mountains. Admire majestic views of snow-capped peaks as you hike to a picturesque village and spend time with local Berbers in their homes. Learn about daily life while savouring traditional Berber bread and mint tea. Afterward, have lunch before returning to Marrakech. Tonight, attend a special farewell dinner.

Hôtel & Ryads Barrière Le Naoura | Meals: BLD

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Meals: B

Minimum age is 10 years.
First group event: welcome briefing at 7:30 p.m. on Day 1.
Last group event: farewell dinner at 8:00 p.m. on Day 7.
Departures are guaranteed to operate with a minimum of 2 guests.
Long drives should be expected on this itinerary. This is the only way to experience the magical scenery that this exotic country has to offer.

Please note: Some departures may operate on an alternate itinerary, in particular October-December. Please contact A&K for details.

Included with every Connections Boutique Group Journey

• English-Speaking Resident Tour Director and Local Guides
• Hand-Selected Boutique Accommodations
• Airport Meet and Greet with Private Transfers
• Full Breakfast Daily; Select Lunches and Dinners
• Internet Access
• Entrance Fees, Taxes and All Gratuities Except Resident Tour Director
• 24/7 A&K On-Call Support
• Guaranteed Departures with Just Two Guests

Talk to one of our expert Journey Designers or your travel agent about booking this tour as a private journey for your own small group with family or friends. Or, if you would prefer to travel privately, find out more about creating the perfect bespoke tailor-made journey based on this itinerary.