Jewels of Northern Morocco
Tailor Made Itinerary
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8 Days From £2,155
Overview
After spending a night in Casablanca, travel along the coastal highway to the Portuguese influenced town of Asilah and then up through the Rif Mountains to the Spanish influenced town of Chefchaouen. Isolated ...
After spending a night in Casablanca, travel along the coastal highway to the Portuguese influenced town of Asilah and then up through the Rif Mountains to the Spanish influenced town of Chefchaouen. Isolated until the early 20th century it has preserved a way of life that flourished in Moorish Spain more than 500 years ago. You will not be able to resist photographing the distinctive powder-blue accents, where craftsmen sit contentedly in their shops sewing caftans and embroidering jellabahs.
You’ll then head for the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the old imperial city of Meknes, the historic capital of Moulay Ismail. The journey then continues towards Fez, one of the oldest and most complete medieval cities in the world, where you’ll have time to wander its winding streets before heading back to Casablanca.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Wander through the narrow, blue streets of Chefchaouen
- See the hundreds of minarets from a viewpoint in Fez
- Stay in the hub of Casablanca
- Enjoy an evening cooking class in Fez
- Discover the Spanish and Portugese influence on the Northern towns of Morocco
- View the striking intricate mosaics in Volubilis
ITINERARY
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: ARRIVE CASABLANCA
DAY 1: ARRIVE CASABLANCA
On arrival in Casablanca this morning you will be met by a Wild Frontiers representative and transferred to your hotel. After freshening up, this afternoon enjoy a guided orientation tour of Casablanca Habbous area and Corniche. After this, visit the interiors of the Hassan II Mosque largest mosque in Africa, and the 5th largest in the world. Its minaret is the world's tallest minaret at 210 metres. Completed in 1993, it was designed by Michel Pinseau and built by Bouygues, and it is still a stunning sight.
DAY 2: CASABLANCA - ASILAH
DAY 2: CASABLANCA - ASILAH
Leaving behind the important centre of industry and commerce of Casablanca, you will head along the coastal highway to the north coast. Arrive at the charming town of Asilah with its colourful frescoes, narrow streets of art galleries and 15th century Portuguese influences that pleasantly combine with Spanish and Moorish marks. Why not walk along the unspoilt beach and enjoy some of the best fish in Morocco during your free afternoon.
DAY 3: ASILAH - TETOUAN - CHEFCHAOUEN
DAY 3: ASILAH - TETOUAN - CHEFCHAOUEN
In the morning leave for Chefchaouen, stopping about halfway through to visit Tetouan, set within a striking location between the Rif Mountains and the Mediterranean. Known as the "daughter of Granada," Tetouan is probably the most Spanish of the Moroccan cities. Wander through the confusing maze of streets and souks that make up the medina, with its whitewashed walls and delicate wrought-iron decorations on the balconies. Then is up into the rugged Rif Mountains to the lovely blue and white Andalucian town of Chefchaouen set above the Oued Laou Valley.
DAY 4: CHEFCHAOUEN: CITY HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 4: CHEFCHAOUEN: CITY HIGHLIGHTS
This morning explore the town of Chefchaouen, visiting with your guide the medina, ethnographic museum and Kasbah. This afternoon is at leisure to relax in this delightful town. Alternatively, Chefchaouen is the perfect point from which to organise treks into the Rif Mountains. You can trek through the numerous magnificent gorges, forests, and colourful traditional villages that are scattered throughout the mountains.
DAY 5: CHEFCHAOUEN - FEZ
DAY 5: CHEFCHAOUEN - FEZ
Following your breakfast, set off south through the Rif Mountains towards the city of Fez. Pass quaint villages and gorgeous scenery on your journey. The rest of the day is yours to relax and soak up the incredible atmosphere of Fez from your characterful Riad accommodation. This evening enjoy a cookery class in a 250 year old restored courtyard house, only 200m from the Bab Boujloud gate. Enjoy the three course meal you have prepared, now with a new found understanding of the seasoning that brings out the diversity of Moroccan flavours.
DAY 6: FEZ: CITY HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 6: FEZ: CITY HIGHLIGHTS
Today explore Fez, the most ancient of the imperial cities with your guide. Discover one of the most complete medieval cities of the Arab world. First, we head to the old Medina where your guide will lead you through the maze of alleyways and wander through the souk, where craftsmen work as they have done for centuries. Also visit the exquisite religious sites of the Qairaouine Mosque and the Sanctuary of MoulayIdriss II. You might like to head up to the Merenid tombs, situated up to the north, where there are fantastic views of the city's skyline - see how many of the Fez's reputed 365 mosque minarets you can see.
DAY 7: FEZ - MEKNES - VOLUBILIS - CASABLANCA
DAY 7: FEZ - MEKNES - VOLUBILIS - CASABLANCA
After an early breakfast, drive south west towards Casablanca. Stop at the imperial city of Meknes (27 km), a 10th century Berber settlement chosen by MoulayIsmaïl in 1672 as capital of his empire. Next continue on to the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, one of the farthest-flung outposts of the Roman Empire. Much of the masonry of Volubilis was plundered by Moulay Ismail for the building of Meknes. The most striking thing about the 2000-year-old ruins is the intricate mosaics that still adorn the floors of some of these ancient homes representing mythological images. After a tour of the ruins have lunch at the pilgrim town of Moulay Idriss, one of the holiest cities in Morocco. Later in the day continue to Casablanca.
DAY 8: DEPART CASABLANCA
DAY 8: DEPART CASABLANCA
Today you will be transferred to the airport in time to catch your onward flight.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Riad Dar el Ghalia
Dar el Ghalia is a hidden palace situated in the back streets of Fez’s historic Medina. This 18th century property opens onto a breath-taking courtyard filled with colour and light, offering an oasis of calm from the hustle and bustle of the city streets. Each room is exquisitely furnished with traditional Moroccan artefacts, named after ancestors of the friendly and hospitable family who still own and run the hotel. Each room is en suite, and other facilities include lounge areas, internet access, and a traditional hammam. One of the highlights of the Dar el Ghalia is the renowned restaurant dar Tajine, set against the backdrop of panoramic views of the medina from the roof top terrace.
Dar Echchaouen
A small hotel in the centre of the town with just 12 rooms. The rooms are all en suite and are individually decorated and designed. There is a restaurant and guests can enjoy views of the mountains, river and medina from the pool and terrace.
Al Alba
The location of the Al Alba is ideal for exploring Asilah, only a short walk to the beach and the centre of town. The hotel itself is a charming guesthouse with interiors blending Islamic architecture and Hispanic motifs. Each of the eight rooms have an en suite bathroom with a shower, air conditioning and Wi-Fi. There are two dining areas in which to enjoy the restaurants Arabic delicacies, as well as a warm terrace with panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Mid-Range
Good quality service and overall comfort
Mid-Range
Good quality service and overall comfort
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT’S INCLUDED
JEWELS OF NORTHERN MOROCCO (8 DAYS) £2,155
MEALS
As specified in the itinerary, sampling some of the country's finest cuisine.
TRANSPORT
Private air-conditioned vehicles with experienced, dedicated drivers.
ENTRANCE FEES
Tours and admission fees, including tickets specified in the itinerary.
EXPERT TEAM
Licensed English-speaking guides and a support team available 24/7.
ACCOMMODATION
As specified in the itinerary, using some of our favourite local properties.
ACCOMMODATION
Ultra - The best of the best, the ultimate indulgence
Luxury - Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium - Excellent standards without the big price tag
Mid-Range - Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple - No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places
CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
If you book international flights through Wild Frontiers.
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.
WHEN TO GO
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
Expert travel consultants
Up-to-date knowledge and advice from our experienced consultants on the best places to stay, things to do and regions to visit to make your holiday the trip of a lifetime.
EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Jamie
Jamie is our Sub Saharan expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Jamie by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258