Moroccan Discovery

On this 14-day small group journey, this land of dramatic contrasts invites visitors to encounter its ancient ruins and sacred mosques, endless desert and storied mountains, imposing kasbahs and spirited souks.  Begin the journey in the Moroccan capital, seaside Rabat, where highlights include the Roman site of Chellah, the contemporary art museum, and lunch in a private home.  Enroute to the impressive Roman ruins at Volubilis (a UNESCO site), enjoy a tour, lunch, and wine tasting at the vineyard Chateau Roslane.  During a three-night stay in Fez, Morocco’s oldest imperial city, exploration reveals the fascinating medina’s many treasures, along with dinner in a family-run riad.  After crossing the Middle Atlas mountains, reach Erfoud and enjoy a tour highlight: a sunset camel ride along the breathtaking sand dunes on the Sahara’s edge.  Experience spectacular scenery en route to Ouarzazate in the snow-topped High Atlas, including dramatic Todra Gorge; and journey along the ancient “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs.”  En route to Marrakech, stop at uninhabited Ait ben-Haddou, a UNESCO site made famous through films. Touring in fabled Marrakech includes the distinctive Koutoubia Mosque, the cobalt blue-accented Majorelle Gardens, the Yves St. Laurent Museum, and a walking tour of the medina ending at Djemaa el Fna Square, Marrakech’s heart.  Spend a final day in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, and visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque. Additionally, discover two of Morocco’s most alluring destinations on an optional 4-day/4-night post tour extension to Tangier, the “Gateway to Africa”; and the “Blue City” of Chefchaouen.