Classic Morocco

8 days - from $1150

In Casablanca we visit the impressive Mosque of Hassan II and the new medina before driving to Rabat - a town of trees, gardens and monumental gateways. Here we visit the suberb Kasbah des Oudayas, the old ruined citadel (Chellah) and see the vast Hassan minaret.

Nearby, at Roman Volubilis we view outstanding mosaics before arriving at Meknes, with its lovely old medina, numerous minarets and extensive bazaars.

Fes is a particular focus and we spend three nights here, exploring the medieval city and mixing with the locals at the spa village of Moulay Yacoub. Our final destination is Marrakech, where we stay in an historic 'Riad' and spend a day exploring elegant palaces, bazaars and its vibrant square - the Jemaa el Fna - framed against the snowy peaks of the Atlas Mountains.

Highlights

• Fes (Medieval City)
• Casablanca
• Rabat
• Volubilis
• Meknes
• Moulay Yacoub
• Bahia Palace
• Marrakech Museum

Itinerary:

Day 1 (Sun) Arrive in Casablanca and transfer to hotel.2 Visit Hassan II Mosque and the new medina. Drive to Rabat and visit the Chellah, Kasbah des Oudayas and Hassan minaret.3 Visit Volubilis. Continue to Meknes to explore the old medina and bazaars. Arrive in Fes.4-5 Visit the old city, including Musee Belghazi and Funduk Nejjarine. 6 Travel to Marrakech.7 City tour, including the Bahia Palace and Marrakech Museum.8 Trip ends in Marrakech this morning (Sun).
Included: Local tour leader, professional local guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees.
Not Included: Flights, meals unless specified, drinks, departure taxes, travel insurance, tips (see below), spending of a personal nature, optional sightseeing, departure transfer.
Meals: 7 breakfasts
Notes: Tipping In Morocco, tipping is part of the fabric of life. Everyone constantly tips everyone else and foreign travellers are expected to comply with this system. It is part of everyday life and is a form of remuneration for doing something, regardless of the standard of service. This is quite confusing for those used to the western concept of tipping as a way of showing appreciation. Over the years we have found that most of our customers find this constant need for tipping to be both tiresome and embarrassing, especially if you don't have the correct small change. To overcome this, we have established a very successful tipping kitty system. At the beginning of the tour, your tour leader will suggest collecting a set amount from each tour member. He/she will then distribute all tips along the way, on behalf of the group, to the local guides, drivers, porters and anyone else who provides services along the way. We have surveyed thousands of our previous clients and the vast majority clearly prefer this procedure. We hope that this system will also work for you. The amount will vary from trip to trip, but it usually works out to be about the equivalent of US$3 per person per day. If you are out on your own, for example at a restaurant, you should also leave a tip for the waiter. Please note that the tipping kitty will NOT include a gratuity for your tour leader. They work hard for you and if you are happy with their service it is appropriate to tip them as well. The normal amount expected is US$3 (or equivalent) per day from each member of the group. Alcohol In Morocco, very few people drink, although alcohol can be found if you look hard enough. Most restaurants in Morocco do not serve alcohol. Ramadan Ramadan occurs in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is an exciting (and at times, frustrating) time to travel in the Middle East. In the evening there is a celebratory atmosphere as people break their fast, and to witness all this is a real highlight. However, during the day, people must refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual activity, so if you encounter someone who is a bit grumpy, be sympathetic! Tourist sites are generally unaffected although some places may close early, but your leader will plan around this. Most hotels bars and tourist restaurants will remain open. Overall, Ramadan is a really interesting time to the Middle East, although you do need to be flexible, sympathetic and sensitive. In 2010, Ramadan starts on 11th August and finishes on 9th September, with the Eid el Fitr feast commencing on 10th September. In 2011, Ramadan will start on 1st August and finish on 30th August.
Starts/Ends: Casablanca to Marrakech
Trip Reference: PGCM