MOROCCAN HIGHLIGHTS

FULLY ESCOURTED SMALL GROUP TOUR

11th TO 25th OCTOBER 2024

Experience an insider’s guide to Morocco with our fully escorted 15-day immersive tour.

We have carefully crafted an itinerary that will deliver unique Moroccan experiences that embody the local culture and charm including handpicked accommodations that reflect the essence of each destination, providing you with comfort and style throughout your trip.

 From start to finish, our expert guides will be by your side, ensuring a seamless and enriching journey. Let us take care of every detail, so you can focus on immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of experiences that only Morocco can offer on this unforgettable journey.

SCROLL DOWN TO SEE THE HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR ITINERARY

Rabat

The tour kicks off in Rabat, the capital city of Morocco which is located on the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River. It is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and cultural diversity. The city has a population of over one million people and is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks. We'll be visiting the Chellah, a beautiful fortress that sits above Rabat's entrance. Inside its walls, there's a lovely garden filled mostly with wildflowers. Then, we'll move on to the Tour Hassan and the Mausoleum of Mohamed V. Finally, we'll head to the enchanting Oudayas area, where young artists gather.

Our accommodation this evening is Villa Mandarine, a charming family-owned auberge nestled in the heart of an orange grove.

Tangier

Tangier, a vibrant city located on the northern coast of Morocco, is a true blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This coastal gem is renowned for its picturesque views of the Strait of Gibraltar and its captivating blend of Moroccan and European influences.

Our local tour guide will show you around this amazing city, including the souk and Medina, and a special private tour of the American Legation. There, you'll see a great collection of paintings, prints, and books, not normally available to the general public.

A private dinner will be hosted in Yves San Laurant villa, now a beautiful Riad owned by British designed Japer Conran

Tonight, you will stay at the stunning Fairmont hotel set on a hill overlooking the city and the sea.

Fes

Fes is a captivating city that embodies the rich history and vibrant culture of the country. The city's UNESCO-listed medina, known as Fes el-Bali, is a labyrinthine maze of narrow alleys, bustling souks, and stunning architecture boating intricate mosaic designs, elaborately carved woodwork, and vibrant tilework.

During your visit, you will head to must-visit Tanner's quarters which has been operating for centuries in exactly the same way. You will experience small Moroccan art and craft museums, the ancient water clock and the vibrant Souk el-Attarine,.

From Fes we will take a day trip to the famous roman city of Volubilis and have an exclusive lunch overlooking the town of Moulay Idriss nearby.

In Fes we will stay at the fabulous Palais Amani and dine in its central garden courtyard.

Note: Enroute to Fes we will stop at the famous Chefchaouen or ‘Blue City’ to marvel at the vibrant colours firsthand.

Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains, stand as an awe-inspiring range that stretches across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia.

We will embark on a guided walk in the surrounding valley and National Park, with a visit of local villages and the local salt production mine. Nectarome Garden and its bio aromatic products and a saffron farm are also on the cards. Lunch is with a Berber family where we will be welcomed like long lost relatives and spoiled with the mothers wonderful cooking.

Our home within this majestic mountain range is Kasbah Bob Ourika. Situated in the picturesque Ourika Valley, this enchanting Kasbah offers a glimpse into the rich Berber culture and traditional Moroccan architecture. With its towering walls of red clay and stunning views of the surrounding landscape

Essaouira

Essaouira, commonly known as Essa, is a captivating coastal city located in Morocco. Situated along the Atlantic Ocean, Essaouira is renowned for its breathtaking views, vibrant culture, and rich history. With its whitewashed buildings, cobblestone streets, and bustling medina, this city effortlessly combines traditional Moroccan charm with a laid-back beach town vibe.

Arrive at Essaouira for lunch at Domaine Val d'Argan, a winery founded in 1994 by Charles Melia, a French wine maker. He has expanded successfully over the years, producing marvellous reds, whites and rosés most of which you can’t buy overseas.

Our accommodation in Essaouira is the Relais & Chateaux accredited L’Heure Bleue

Marrakech

Marrakech is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. With a rich history that dates back centuries, Marrrakech is a mystical tapestry of vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and enchanting sounds.

We will be taken by our experienced guide to major historical monuments –the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs, before going onto the famous souks where we will see everything from exquisitely embroidered shoes and belts to every type of spice, woodwork, brass and copper-work. You will also have the chance to go with a personal shopper to the artisans workshops themselves to purchase clothes, shoes and homewares that are impossible to find at home.

Whilst in Marrakech we will visit Riad Dar Les Cigones for a private cooking lesson. You'll get to explore the nearby market to buy ingredients before heading back to the Riad to cook dinner.

Our home whilst in Marrakesh is the stunning Villa des Orangers, another Relais & Chateaux property that is a calm haven within the busyness of the Medina. Our farewell dinner will be held by the pool in this suburb Riad.

NOTE: Although our tour will come to an end here, do ask us about a side trip to the real Sahara desert and a night under the stars in a Berber encampment!

YOUR HOSTS

Susie Fernie

Susie is a Director of By Prior Arrangement and is married to company owner Alastair Fernie.

Susie was born in Helensburgh, Scotland and worked as a flight attendant in London for British Caledonian and British Airways. After marrying Alastair, she lived and brought up 3 children in 4 separate countries before settling in Sydney. Susie loves travelling and enjoys sharing her knowledge with other travellers. She has amassed a lot of experience in travel over the years and is a keen cook and ‘professional shopper’! With a eye for details and a love of quality, Susie specialises in the design of our clients travel experience in Morocco.

Soufiane Ghanam

Soufiane Morocco Country Manager

Soufiane is the Morocco Country Manager, responsible for all of our drivers, tour guides and on ground operations.

Soufiane is a highly valued and long-standing member of the By Prior Arrangement team, having worked closely with us for over 17 years. Born in Marrakesh, he has an intimate knowledge of the country having travelled practically everywhere In the country. He brings with him an immense wealth of knowledge and experience and is highly regarded in the industry. Soufiane will be the lead-driver and ‘Mr Fixit‘ on your tour.

What’s Included? This really is an all-inclusive package!

  • Luxury accommodation for 14 nights

  • Most meals throughout the itinerary

  • Wine with the welcome and farewell dinners

  • Transportation throughout in luxury air-conditioned vehicles with dedicated and experienced English-speaking drivers

  • Bottled mineral water in the vehicle daily

  • English-speaking licensed local guides in Marrakech, Rabat, Fes, Meknes, Volubilis, Essaouira, Tangier, with all entrance fees included

  • Hosting by Susie Fernie and your local escort

  • Entrances to Jardin Majorelle, the Yves Saint Laurent and the Berber Museum in Marrakech

  • Atlas Mountains excursion

  • Cooking class

  • Local Tourist Taxes

  • Porterage at all hotels

  • Restaurant tips with all meals

  • Guides and drivers’ gratuities

  • Bank transfer and currency fluctuation fees