Best of Morocco
10 Days from $1,866 per person
Behold the cacophony of bazaars and shimmering Sahara when you journey to Morocco's charming cities of Casablanca, Fez and Marrakesh, including visits to the life-giving oasis of Tinghir, Todra Gorge and Ouarzazate.
Travel to Africa often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
Best of Morocco also has winter departures; click here to see the Winter Season version of this tour!
Overview
Behold the cacophony of bazaars and shimmering Sahara when you journey to Morocco's charming cities of Casablanca, Fez and Marrakesh, including visits to the life-giving oasis of Tinghir, Todra Gorge and Ouarzazate.
Travel to Africa often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
Best of Morocco also has winter departures; click here to see the Winter Season version of this tour!
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Day 1: Arrive Casablanca
On arrival at Casablanca Airport transfers will operate at 8 am, 10 am, 12 noon and 2 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. The intoxicating sights and sounds of Morocco are revealed on this epic adventure through an ancient land. Delve into the intrigue and romance of Casablanca immortalized by Hollywood before meeting your travel companions and Travel Director for a Welcome Reception.
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Day 2: Casablanca – Rabat – Meknès – Fez (2 Nights)
We continue along the coast to the capital, Rabat. Here we'll embark on an orientation tour of the city which includes views of the grand 17th-century palace and Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Traveling to the imperial city of Meknès, we'll see the grand gate of Bab el-Mansour, one of the most impressive monumental gateways in North Africa, adorned by green and white zeillij tiles. We arrive in Fez later today and spend the rest of the day at leisure, connecting with the symbolic heart of Morocco and the unique character of the country's oldest imperial city.
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Day 3: Fez Sightseeing and Free Time
Join a Local Specialist today to explore the medina, one of the largest thriving medieval centers in the world. See the royal palace and dive into culture during a visit to the round dye-pits and tanneries revealing Morocco's ancient leather craft. Spend the rest of the day shopping or relaxing in a lantern-lit courtyard away from the medina crowds. Join your companions this evening for a special opportunity to connect with locals over a Be My Guest dinner experience, featuring Moroccan specialties served with wine in a traditional Riad.
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Day 4: Fez – Midelt – Erfoud
We follow the old caravan trail south, stopping for a Regional Meal in Midelt, a market town set within the high plains between the Middle and High Atlas mountain ranges. Continuing along the palm-fringed Ziz Valley and past the Tafilalt oasis, we arrive in the oasis town of Erfoud, regarded as the Gateway to the Sahara. Its golden façades and towering dunes have made it a popular location for filmmakers for decades. This evening we dine at our hotel.
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Day 5: Erfoud – Tinghir – Dades Valley
Journeying west, we arrive in Tinghir, one of the most beautiful oases in southern Morocco and home to the ruins of the ancient Glaoui palace. We continue through part of the Todra Gorge and cut through the mountains for one of the most dramatic views in the country. Enjoy a memorable Regional Lunch before following the route of a thousand kasbahs to the flourishing Dades Valley. Here we will overnight at Xaluca Dades, surrounded by panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains.
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Day 6: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Aït Ben Haddou – Marrakesh (2 Nights)
Blending effortlessly into the arid landscape, Ouarzazate has provided a backdrop for such famous movies as 'Lawrence of Arabia,' 'Cleopatra' and 'Gladiator.' Visit the UNESCO-listed fortified village of Aït Ben Haddou in the High Atlas Mountains and continue through the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass to Marrakesh—the 'Red City.' Like many other former imperial cities in Morocco, Marrakesh comprises an old fortified city—the medina—and an adjacent modern city. Marrakesh is home to Morocco's largest traditional souk (market) where you may wish to spend some time learning the art of haggling.
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Day 7: Marrakesh Sightseeing and Free Time
Visit the ornate Bahia Palace during city orientation with your Local Specialist and spend some time soaking up the energy of Djemaa el Fna Square in the Old Quarter with its palm readers, acrobats, camels and snake-charmers. Spend the rest of the afternoon lingering in one of the city's beautiful gardens, discover the vibrant arts and culture scene or consider experiencing an authentic Moroccan show.
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Day 8: Marrakesh – Essaouira
We travel to the laid-back shores of Essaouira this morning stopping en route to visit a cooperative involved in creating cosmetics from traditional ingredients. Consider a delicious seafood lunch and enjoy some free time before joining a city tour of UNESCO-listed medina, the walled Jewish Quarter and Skala fortress. Spend the rest of the evening at leisure.
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Day 9: Essaouira – Casablanca
This morning we journey north to Casablanca where we will enjoy views of the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, built for the late king's 60th birthday celebrations. Later, we join our Travel Director and companions for a Farewell Dinner to celebrate an unforgettable voyage of discovery.
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Day 10: Depart Casablanca
Say goodbye to your new-found friends at the end of your Moroccan vacation. Return transfers will arrive at Casablanca Airport at 7 am, 10 am and 12 noon. Conditions apply.
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 May 19 | 12 May 19 |
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$2,250pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Call 1-877-622-9109 | ||
| 17 May 19 | 26 May 19 |
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$2,250pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 14 Jun 19 | 23 Jun 19 |
|
$2,195$1,866pp | SAVE: $329Promo Code: PPTD1945AARP members save an additional $100 | Call 1-877-622-9109 Book Now | ||
| 28 Jun 19 | 7 Jul 19 |
|
$2,195$1,866pp | SAVE: $329Promo Code: PPTD1945AARP members save an additional $100 | Call 1-877-622-9109 Book Now | ||
| 26 Jul 19 | 4 Aug 19 |
|
$2,195$1,866pp | SAVE: $329Promo Code: PPTD1923AARP members save an additional $100 | Call 1-877-622-9109 Book Now | ||
| 9 Aug 19 | 18 Aug 19 |
|
$2,195pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 6 Sep 19 | 15 Sep 19 |
|
$2,250pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 13 Sep 19 | 22 Sep 19 |
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$2,250pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 20 Sep 19 | 29 Sep 19 |
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$2,225pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 27 Sep 19 | 6 Oct 19 |
|
$2,225pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 4 Oct 19 | 13 Oct 19 |
|
$2,225pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 11 Oct 19 | 20 Oct 19 |
|
$2,225pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a room.
Single Room Supplement: from $500 per person
Triple Room Discount: $30 per person
Airport transfers: On arrival at Casablanca Airport transfers will operate at 8 am, 10 am, 12 noon and 2 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Return transfers on the last travel day will arrive at Casablanca Airport at 7 am, 10 am and 12 noon.
Ramadan: During daylight hours from dawn to sunset fasting takes place for Ramadan. It is observed from Sunday, May 5, to Tuesday, June 4, 2019, in Morocco. The order of sightseeing and meals may be adjusted.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
Meal Summary
16 meals: 9 hot buffet breakfasts, 2 Regional Meal lunches, 5 dinners.
Insider Experiences
Connect with Locals
- Specialty Be My Guest dinner of delicious Moroccan cuisine served with wine at a traditional Riad in Fez
Stays with Stories
- Promising paradise in the middle of the Atlas Mountains, the African-styled Xaluca Dades is surrounded by a spectacular mountainscape with panoramic views of the Dades Valley and its Berber villages
Dive into Culture
- Visit a traditional tannery and dye-pit for a fascinating glimpse into an ancient practice
Local Specialist
- For included sightseeing in Fez, Marrakesh
Sightseeing Experiences
- City tour in Fez, Marrakesh
- Orientation of Rabat, Meknès, Erfoud, Ouarzazate, Essaouira, Casablanca
- Visit Midelt, Tafilalt Oasis, Bahia Palace, Aït Ben Haddou
- View the Royal Palace in Rabat, the Ziz Valley in Fez, Tinghir, the Todra Gorge and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Casablanca
Arabian Dinner and Entertainment in a Riad
Enjoy a feast of fine food, live bands and traditional entertainment including belly dancing, in a spectacular Moroccan setting.
Adult Price: د.م.560.00
Fez
Bhalil Revealed
Explore Bhalil village, where local people live in dwellings carved from the rock face. Warm in winter but cool in summer, they are perfect for the local climate. You’ll also visit local craftsmen at a traditional ceramic tile factory.
Adult Price: د.م.290.00
Saharan Adventure
We’ll take jeeps from our hotel and travel 50 km (8o miles) to the stunning sand dunes of the Sahara, arriving in time to witness the glorious desert sunset (or sunrise, depending on timing). You’ll also have the opportunity to try a traditional Berber headdress, which local tribesmen use to protect themselves from the sand and desert elements.
Adult Price: د.م.495.00
Marrakesh
Majorelle Gardens And Saadian Tombs
No visit to Marrakesh is complete without some time in the lovely Majorelle Gardens, bought and restored by the late Yves St Laurent. You’ll also see the mausoleum housing the tombs of the 17th century ruling Saadi family. Rediscovered in 1917, the building has been beautifully restored to its former glory.
Adult Price: د.م.290.00
The Square at Night with Horse & Buggy and Traditional Dinner
You’ll take a horse and carriage ride to the magical Jemaa el Fna Square to enjoy the exotic sights and sounds of Marrakesh by night. Then we’ll have dinner in a typical Moroccan restaurant, with music and entertainment.
Adult Price: د.م.660.00
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
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Currency
The official currency in Morocco is the dihram. Major currencies including euros and U.S. dollars are accepted in most places. You can also use your debit card to withdraw cash at local ATMs. We recommend bringing a credit card for purchases and informing your financial institutions of your travel plans before leaving home to avoid having your purchases flagged as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
Moroccan food is a flavorful mix of Mediterranean, Arabic, Andalusian and North African cuisines. A wide variety of spices including saffron, cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, and paprika are used in cooking. Try a variety of couscous with meat and vegetables and fresh baked Moroccan bread. Meals are generally concluded with fresh fruit and a glass of sweet mint tea.
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Packing
We suggest bringing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. Loose fitting clothes are always a respectful and comfortable option in Morocco, especially during the summer months when the weather is hot and humid. Long skirts, flowy pants and t-shirts will keep you comfortable without sacrificing modesty. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are advisable, especially in Morocco’s larger cities where streets can sometimes be unclean. It’s also a good idea to bring a lightweight scarf that can be worn at religious sites and to demonstrate respect for Morocco’s conservative Islamic culture. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
When dining out in Morocco, it’s appropriate to tip your waiter 1 dihram per person at cafés and up to 10-15 percent at upmarket restaurants.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
