Moroccan Odyssey
Known to the Arabs as al-Maghreb al-Aqsa, meaning the “farthest land of the setting sun,” Morocco boasts stunning natural beauty and a rich and varied cultural heritage. In this land of legend and color, the thousand-year-old labyrinth medinas of fabled Fez, Essaouira and Marrakech await your discovery.
Itinerary
Upon arrival in Casablanca, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative. After collecting your things, embark upon a scenic drive of approximately three hours to Fez and check in to your luxurious riad (traditional Moroccan house with a garden courtyard). Riad Fes (Deluxe Room) – 3-nights
Drive through the Moroccan countryside past fields of wheat, mint and mimosa and forests of cork, on your way to Meknes. A cultural center for more than ten centuries, Meknes boasts a fascinating medina (old city) and maze of streets filled with colorful stalls and architectural delights such as the intricately carved Bab el-Mansour. Continue to Moulay Idriss, Morocco’s holiest city, and then onto the Roman ruins at Volubilis to see the Triumphal Arch and exquisite mosaics. Return to Fez late this afternoon. (B)
Fez el-Bali is the world’s largest and most beautiful living medieval city. Tour the 14th-century Medersa Bou Inania (theological college), famous for its Koranic scriptures in stucco, zellij tiles and carved wood. Explore the 13th-century tanneries and henna and spice souqs (markets) as you wind your way through the labyrinth of streets and alleys, discovering hidden squares like the Place an-Nejjarine. (B)
Traverse the Middle Atlas range and a landscape of Berber villages and ancient cedar forests on a leisurely drive. Stop for a picnic lunch in the Tadla region at Beni Mellal, famous for its oranges, grapefruits, apricots and figs. Late this afternoon, arrive in Marrakech the undisputed capital of southern Morocco. Villa Des Orangers (Deluxe Room) or Similar Luxury Boutique Riad – 3-nights (B, L)
Today, tour the gorgeous Saadian Tombs, elegant El Badi Palace and the 12th-century Koutoubia mosque, famed throughout the Arab world. Meander through the medina, exploring an endless procession of souqs, mosques and medersas. Just before sunset, visit the Djemaa el-Fna, the enormous square and atmospheric wonderland of torch-lit food stalls, snake charmers, storytellers and acrobats. (B)
Option: Immerse yourself in the wonders of Moroccan cuisine this evening with an exclusive cooking class at the famed La Maison Arabe.
Today, drive outside of Marrakech to experience the majestic High Atlas Mountains. If you like, savor lunch at the famed Residence de la Roseraie with its beautiful gardens overflowing with roses of every color imaginable. Return in the afternoon to Marrakech. (B)
Option: Tour Marrakech’s beautiful private gardens, including the Majorelle Gardens.
Drive to the quaint fishing town of Essaouira, which stands on a peninsula swept by the trade winds. Everyone from the Phoenicians to the French left their touches on this coastal town. And in 1949, Orson Welles chose Essaouira’s imposing battlements as the setting for his movie, Othello. L’Heure Bleue (Junior Suite) – 2-nights (B)
From behind its ramparts, the blue-and-white old city seems to defy the ocean. As you explore its narrow alleyways and streets, stumble upon art galleries and craft workshops tucked away behind fortified walls. A leisurely stroll provides ample opportunity for snapping some photos, browsing a gallery or two and even stopping for a cup of sweet, mint tea. (B)
Today, drive back to Marrakech and overnight. Villa Des Orangers (Deluxe Room) or Similar Boutique Riad – 1-night (B)
Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your international flight. (B)
Extend Your Journey
Roman Treasures of Tunisia
Classic South Africa
Boutique South Africa
Ethiopian Odyssey
- Explore Meknes, and the Roman ruins at Volubilis
- Wander the alleyways and lanes of Fes’ teeming medina
- Savor a picnic lunch in the Atlas Mountains
- Search for Moroccan treasures in Marrakech’s souq
- Discover the hidden wonders of Essaouira
- Stay at boutique riads
- Enjoy a cooking class at the famed La Maison Arab (optional)
- Tour Marrakech’s beautiful private gardens (optional)
10 DAYS & 9 NIGHTS
Casablanca, Fez, Meknes, Volubilis, Marrakech & Essaouira
2012 Dates:
Jan - Oct
Prices From:
$6,875
Note:
Upon request, your travel consultant can provide an exact price based on your specific dates of travel.
Includes:
All accommodation, select meals, all transfers and sightseeing with private guides. Private Journeys depart daily subject to availability.
The best season for travel to Morocco is September through April.

