Tangier is an enigmatic city that has lured artists, writers, and musicians from Delacroix and Matisse to Burroughs and the Rolling Stones.

All guests will be met with and transferred to the Fairmont Tazi Palace, our home in Tangier. The Fairmont Tazi Palace was originally built in the 1920s as a residence for the King’s advisor and has been painstakingly restored, frosted tile by tile, and expanded upon, standing on nearly nine acres built into the hills of the Moroccan Riviera. With incomparable views and luxury details throughout its rooms and suites, the Tazi Palace offers lavish accommodations, outfitted in traditional Moroccan tile and latticework as well as a palette of Mediterranean blues and whites, a range of culinary venues, and a rejuvenating spa all set within an idyllic setting.

This evening, we will gather together for our welcome dinner.

Overnight at Fairmont Tazi Palace.
(D)

This morning after breakfast, we begin our explorations of Morocco with Chefchaouen, the “Blue City”. Chefchaouen is nestled in the hollow of two mountains and is admired for its iconic indigo-washed buildings. Every building, stairway, and alleyway in the hillside medina are blanketed in hues of azure blue. The official reasons for this seem to vary, but the main explanation dates back to 1492. At this time, a settlement of Jews, who were expelled from Spain 21 years after the city was founded as a refuge for Moors (who were also fleeing that European country), arrived in Chefchaouen. The Jews brought with them the practice of painting buildings blue to reflect the color of the sky and underscore the presence and power of God.

We will have lunch at Casa Hasan, a charming traditional Moroccan house with architectural and artistic decoration with unique crafts of the region.

After lunch, we continue to Fes - the cultural heart of Morocco - and our lavish accommodations at the Raid Fès.

Raid Fès, a Relais & Châteax property, specializes in pampering guests. From the ornate tiled courtyard, lavishly appointed rooms (each uniquely decorated), to the roof terrace with views over the medina and the green hills surrounding the city - it’s subtle mix of Andalusian sumptuousness and Moroccan joie de vivre, exemplify the splendor and prestige of the Fassi nobility.

Overnight at the Raid Fès - Relais & Châteax.
(B,L,D)

After breakfast, we step back in time to the Middle Ages and visit Fez el-Bali (Old Fez) – the cultural heart of Morocco. Explore some of the 9,000 narrow lanes, alleys, and souks (open-air markets) that make up the labyrinth of the city’s old quarter, a renowned center of medieval learning. We will view the Karaouine, one of the oldest still-functioning universities in the world, and Nejjarine Square, with its beautiful fountain and elaborate tile mosaics. 

We’ll continue to Fez el-Jadid (New Fez), where we will see the Royal Palace, madrasas (Islamic schools), and mellah (Jewish quarter). In the afternoon, we are treated to a tasting food journey to savor delicious cakes, grilled tatin cheese, tasty olives, and Fes' local food culture, enriched by tasty pastries and other special foods often missed by visitors.

Overnight at the Raid Fès - Relais & Châteax.
(B, Tasting Tour)

We journey overland to explore Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa. Among its greatest treasures are the amazing mosaic floors of former family dwellings, which still colorfully depict Orpheus, charming animals with his lyre, nine dolphins signifying good luck, and a portrait of Amphitrite in a seahorse-drawn chariot.

After we explore Volubilis, we will dine at a local vineyard for a gourmet lunch made from locally sourced, organic ingredients and enjoyed among the region’s sunbathed vineyards and olive groves — a refreshing Chef ’s Table experience.

We continue to our destination Rabat. The capital city of Rabat possesses a distinct European charm, with palm-lined avenues.

Our home is the Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé Hotel. Salé, a port town founded in the 11th century and later embellished by the Marinid dynasty, is renowned for its rich history, bustling medina, and beautiful views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Overnight at the Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé Hotel.
(B,L)

Rabat is Morocco's capital and the king's official residence since the early 20th century. It reflects worldly elegance blended with traditional Moroccan character. Our morning tour commences with the fortified Kasbah Oudayas, the 17th-century royal residence, and its Andalusian garden. The Mohamed V Mausoleum is a magnum opus of Moroccan craftsmanship, standing adjacent to the medieval Hassan Tower.

We continue to the Villa des Arts for a light lunch. The Villa des Arts is a beautifully restored, white art deco villa dating from 1929. It now holds well-curated contemporary art exhibitions focusing on Moroccan artists, culture, and heritage alongside cultural events. The garden cafe is a pleasant spot for a sightseeing break.

We return to our lovely hotel with time for personal exploration and dinner free.

Overnight at the Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé Hotel.
(B,L)

This morning, we depart for Marrakech. En route, we will have a brief tour and lunch in Casablanca and at Rick’s Cafe - known in the movie Casablanca.

Casablanca, Morocco's commercial center, does not offer the richness of cities like Fes, Rabat, or Marrakech. However, a journey to Morocco would not be complete without a visit to Rick’s Cafe and the incredible glass-floored Hassan II Mosque.

After our lunch at Rick’s Cafe we continue to Marrakech.

We will arrive with time to refresh for dinner at our lovely hotel, the infamous Villas de Orangers. Referred to as a ‘palace of pleasures’, Villa des Orangers is a ‘riad of riches’, a private Marrakech oasis combining North African influences with authentic craftsmanship and wonderful cuisine.

Overnight at Villa de Orangers - Relais & Châteax.

(B,L,D)

Over the next two days, we will unearth the secrets of Marrakech, beginning in the beguiling Jardin Majorelle, a picturesque garden created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by design legend Yves Saint Laurent. We will visit the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, nearby, for an up-close look at some of the famed designer’s creations.

Our explorations include the walled medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with architectural jewels, and the soaring Koutoubia minaret.

This evening is free for you to experience one of Marrakech’s wonderful restaurants.

Overnight at Villa de Orangers - Relais & Châteax.
(B,L)

This morning, we will get a glimpse into how the privileged lived here during the 19th century, with a visit to the The Bahia Palace — a masterpiece of design adorned with marble, stucco, and mosaics, featuring an open courtyard filled with fountains and plants. We will also explore the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a Koranic school built around 1570, renowned for its magnificent architecture. Continuing on, we will venture to Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech’s main square, to experience its heady milieu replete with vendors, acrobats, dancers, street musicians, and even snake charmers performing at every turn.

This afternoon is free for personal exploration.

Overnight at Villa de Orangers - Relais & Châteax.
(B,L)

Discover the Berber villages of the Atlas Mountains on a full-day trip from Marrakech. Explore broad valleys and lush orchards with views of Mount Toubkal. Ride a camel through a broad gorge, pause for tea in Imlil Valley, and visit a Berber family's home. We will return to Marrakech and overnight at the Villa de Orangers.

The Post Journey Extension includes visits and transportation, the hotel stay at Villa de Orangers - Relais & Châteax with all taxes and fees, breakfast, and your transfer to the airport on October 17th. Kindly note, the extension is available on a limited basis therefore we invite you to contact the Guest Services Team to enhance your reservation at your first convenience.

• $1,295 per person, double occupancy

• $1,595 per person, single occupancy