Best of Morocco, a Women-Only Tour
Best of Morocco, a Women-Only Tour
Best of Morocco, a Women-Only Tour
11 Days Starting and ending in Casablanca, Morocco
Visiting: Casablanca, Fes, Erfoud, Rissani, Ouarzazate, Marrakesh, Essaouira
Tour operator:
Tour code:
XE938M20
Specialist Group:
Women Only
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, Wellness Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Morocco with the "Best of Morocco, a Women-Only Tour." This cultural adventure takes you from the bustling streets of Casablanca to the serene coastal town of Essaouira, offering a unique blend of experiences. Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of cities like Marrakesh, Fes, and Rabat, where you'll explore ancient medinas, majestic palaces, and bustling souks. Enjoy authentic Moroccan cuisine, including a memorable dinner at Rick's Café in Casablanca. Engage with local communities through visits to non-profit organizations, supporting gender equality and animal welfare. Relax in luxurious accommodations and indulge in a traditional hammam spa experience. With scenic drives through the High Atlas Mountains and visits to iconic sites like the Hassan II Mosque and Aït Ben Haddou, this tour promises a captivating exploration of Morocco's diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.
Choice Highlights
- Marrakesh: Visit non-profit organisation Amal to see first-hand how they are empowering women one meal at a time at this chef training centre. Partner with a chef to learn to make delicious Moroccan baked goods including Gazelle horns, Ghreyba cookies, Msemmen and more. Taste your home-baked goodies and sip on mint tea as you learn the secrets of Moroccan baking and hear about the experiences of Moroccan women. Your visit supports UN Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality.
- Marrakesh: Embark on a decadent afternoon at a traditional Moroccan spa, or hammam. The origins of hammam can be traced back to the migration of Arabs to Morocco in the early 7th century. Relax and refresh in their complete wellness centre. The hammam has been family-run for three generations and reflects the family tradition and values in their business.
Top Rated Highlights
- Rabat: See the Royal Palace and Hassan Tower.
- Casablanca: See the Hassan II Mosque and the Corniche.
- Meknès: Admire the Bab el-Mansour Gate on Place El-Hedim in the heart of the Medina.
- Fes: Led by your Local Expert, wander the maze of streets that make up the ancient Medina. See one of the world's oldest universities and pass hidden courtyards, mosques and workshops. Continue through the souks, an array of vendors selling food, clothes, leather goods and beautiful lights.
- Erfoud: Enjoy the beauty of this little oasis with the backdrop of the Sahara desert whilst you explore the red walled streets.
- Tinghir: Visit Todra Gorge to marvel at this fascinating ravine, created by a fault that split the orange-coloured limestone as deep as 300 meters.
- Dades Valley: See the castellated mud houses and oases.
- Ouarzazate: Learn more about this quiet town in a city orientation and see why it has been the backdrop to many films as you wander its red sandy streets.
- Aït Ben Haddou: The Ksar is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the finest examples of South Moroccan architecture. See the crowded houses within the defensive walls that are reinforced by the corner towers and explore one of Morocco's finest kasbahs.
- Essaouira: See the beauty of this bohemian coastal town as you explore the many spice-scented streets of the medina.
- Marrakesh: Your Local Expert guides you past Jemaa el-Fnaa Square with its intriguing characters and through the seemingly entangled streets of the Medina with its many souks. See the protruding Koutoubia Minaret.
Make Travel Matter
Fes: Visit the non-profit American Fondouk founded in 1927 and speak with the volunteer veterinarians who care so passionately for the welfare of the animals and the families who are so dependant on their labour. Your visit supports United Nations Global Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
Marrakesh: Visit non-profit organisation Amal to see first-hand how they are empowering women one meal at a time at this chef training centre. Partner with a chef to learn to make delicious Moroccan baked goods including Gazelle horns, Ghreyba cookies, Msemmen and more. Taste your home-baked goodies and sip on mint tea as you learn the secrets of Moroccan baking and hear about the experiences of Moroccan women. Your visit supports UN Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality.
Authentic Dining
Casablanca: You must remember this...a fabulous 4-course dinner with drinks at Rick's Café, made famous by the 1942 film.
Insight Choice
Marrakesh: Embark on a decadent afternoon at a traditional Moroccan spa, or hammam. The origins of hammam can be traced back to the migration of Arabs to Morocco in the early 7th century. Relax and refresh in their complete wellness centre. The hammam has been family-run for three generations and reflects the family tradition and values in their business.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Casablanca
Location: Casablanca
Accommodation: Gray Suites, Casablanca
Accommodation Name: Gray Suites, Casablanca
Meals Included: Dinner
Join your Travel Director and fellow guests for your welcome dinner, with the opportunity to mingle over a pleasant evening of good food.
Day 2: Rabat, Imperial Meknes And Fes Relaxed Start
Location: Fes
Accommodation: Marriott Jnan Palace, Fes
Accommodation Name: Marriott Jnan Palace, Fes
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Explore the sights of Casablanca viewing the huge Hassan II Mosque, the third largest in the world. Venture to the chic seaside strip known as the Corniche, which stretches to the west and is lined with trendy restaurants and cafes. Depart for the capital of Rabat to see the Royal Palace, Hassan Tower, and visit one of the few holy places open to non-Muslims, the lavish Mausoleum of King Mohammed V. This site is both an architectural marvel and a monument to a great ruler. At a local winery, savour a wine tasting of locally grown Moroccan wines with a delicious three-course lunch. Travel to Meknes, one of the kingdom's great imperial cities where little has changed since its founding in the 11th century. Stand before the Bab el-Mansour, the monumental entrance to the imperial city and focal point of Square El-Hedim, before continuing to Fes.
Day 3: Fes Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Fes
Accommodation: Marriott Jnan Palace, Fes
Accommodation Name: Marriott Jnan Palace, Fes
Meals Included: Breakfast
Led by your Local Expert, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience to the non-profit American Fondouk, speak with the volunteer veterinarians who care so passionately for the welfare of the animals. Wander the maze of streets that make up one of the largest thriving ancient Medina's in the world, here you can admire traditional Moroccan handiwork during a visit to a carpet cooperative. Pass one of the world's oldest universities and visit Medersa El Attarine, founded in 1325 located at the heart of the medina. Continue through the souks where an array of vendors sell food, clothes, leather goods and beautiful lights.
Day 4: The Ziz Gorges To Erfoud
Location: Erfoud
Accommodation: Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud, Erfoud
Accommodation Name: Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud, Erfoud
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Leave the bustle of the city behind and head for the spectacular snowcapped High Atlas Mountains. Pass through Ifran before reaching the great cedar forests of Azrou. After stopping for lunch at Midelt, continue through the magnificent Ziz Gorges, past palm-fringed towns to Er Rachidia, built by the French and formerly the historic crossroads between the imperial cities. Your destination is Erfoud, where the red sand buildings stand in stark contrast against the patches of greenery and surrounding desert. In the evening, there is an Optional Experience to meet the nomadic Berbers and marvel at the glorious Sahara sunset on a four-wheel drive vehicle.
Day 5: Desert Town Of Rissani
Location: Rissani
Accommodation: Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud, Erfoud
Accommodation Name: Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud, Erfoud
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, discover the authentic desert town of Rissani. See the Tomb of Moulay Ali Cherif one of the founders of the Alaouite family who reigned during the second half of the 17th century. Next, a visit to the quarries of marine fossils with an antiquity of 360 million years. Stop at the famous kasbah aulad abdelm. This afternoon experience a traditional lunch of Madfouna also known as ‘Berber Pizza���, this dish is a delight for the senses with seasonal fillings and spices. This afternoon will be free time to relax and enjoy the hotel facilities. In the evening, there is an Optional Experience to marvel at the glorious Sahara sunset on a four-wheel drive vehicle. Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Day 6: Spectacular Ouarzazate
Location: Ouarzazate
Accommodation: Le Berbère Palace, Ouarzazate
Accommodation Name: Le Berbère Palace, Ouarzazate
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Venture towards the oasis of Tinehir and explore the Todra Gorge, known as the Grand Canyon of the Sahara. At Boumalne du Dadès you will encounter the dry and rugged Dades Valley, dotted with oases of figs, olives, date palms and castellated mud houses—hugging the slopes. Meet the locals of the region when you visit a traditional Nomad house to try authentic Berber tea. The Road of a Thousand Kasbahs concludes at Ouarzazate, also known as the film capital of Morocco. Many blockbusters have been filmed here, including Lawrence of Arabia and Star Wars.
Day 7: To Marrakesh
Location: Marrakesh
Accommodation: Mövenpick Mansour Eddahbi, Marrakech
Accommodation Name: Mövenpick Mansour Eddahbi, Marrakesh
Meals Included: Breakfast
Marvel at and photograph the architectural wonder of Ksar of Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts one of Morocco's finest kasbahs. Your journey continues via the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass, before descending past charming mountain villages, dense woods and green fields to the ochre-coloured city of Marrakesh. With the rest of the day at your leisure, why not relax and enjoy the immaculate facilities of your hotel?
Day 8: Marrakesh, Pearl Of The South Relaxed Start
Location: Marrakesh
Accommodation: Mövenpick Mansour Eddahbi, Marrakech
Accommodation Name: Mövenpick Mansour Eddahbi, Marrakesh
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, visit Dar El Bacha - an iconic landmark in the city of Marrakech. Meet your Local Expert and wander the maze of the Medina and see the Koutoubia Mosque, with its minaret dominating the Marrakesh skyline. Next, to the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where you can take a moment to watch the dancers, snake charmers and storytellers. With time at leisure, you are free to continue exploring: try your hand at haggling in the souks or maybe visit a museum? In the evening, perhaps choose to join fellow guests at a vibrant restaurant on Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Here you will enjoy a slew of classic Moroccan dishes as you absorb the ambience and watch twirling belly dancers balance plates of lit candles on their heads.
Day 9: Elegant Essaouira Relaxed Start
Location: Essaouira
Accommodation: Pullman Mazagan Royal Golf and Spa, El Jadida
Accommodation Name: Pullman Mazagan Royal Golf and Spa, El Jadida
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Venture to the west coast of Africa to reach the laid-back fishing town of Essaouira. After an orientation with your Travel Director exploring the busy fishing port where you could sample the local seafood and wine at a waterside restaurant. Continue to the port city of El Jadida with its unique architectural mixture of Moorish-Portuguese-French influence.
Day 10: Return To Casablanca Relaxed Start
Location: Casablanca
Accommodation: Gray Suites, Casablanca
Accommodation Name: Gray Suites, Casablanca
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Once you’ve experienced the traditional charms of the country, Casablanca is a fascinating place to return to and offers a unique insight into modern Morocco. Perhaps visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque famous for its intricate Islamic architecture and one of the largest in the world. In the evening 'of all the gin joints, in all the towns, in all the world' there really is only one place to be. Join your Travel Director at Rick's Café, recreated from the famous movie. Enjoy a hearty dinner with drinks and no doubt a rendition of ‘As Time Goes By'. Here's looking at you kid!
Day 11: Au Revoir Casablanca
Location: Casablanca
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, bid farewell to your journey along Morocco as you transfer to the airport.
What's Included
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Transport
Travel through Morocco in style with comfortable transportation provided throughout the tour, including scenic drives through the High Atlas Mountains and the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
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Dining
Enjoy 10 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch with Wine, 6 Dinners with Wine, 3 Lunches, and 1 Dinner.
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Local Experiences
Visit non-profit organisation Amal in Marrakesh, enjoy a traditional Moroccan spa experience, and explore the ancient Medina in Fes with a Local Expert.
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Sightseeing
See the Royal Palace and Hassan Tower in Rabat, Hassan II Mosque and the Corniche in Casablanca, and many other iconic sites across Morocco.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as a four-wheel drive vehicle tour to meet the nomadic Berbers and marvel at the Sahara sunset are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks outside of the included dining experiences are not covered.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Morocco in style with comfortable transportation provided throughout the tour, including scenic drives through the High Atlas Mountains and the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at Gray Suites in Casablanca, Marriott Jnan Palace in Fes, Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud in Erfoud, Le Berbère Palace in Ouarzazate, Movenpick Mansour Eddahbi in Marrakesh, and Pullman Mazagan Royal Golf and Spa in El Jadida.
Dining Summary
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
- 6 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 3 Lunch (L)
- 1 Dinner (D)
Insight Experiences
- Dades Valley: Stop at a traditional Nomad house and meet the locals as you sip Berber tea.
- Marrakesh: Visit Dar El Bacha, a beautiful palace that has been standing since the 18th century and is a symbol of the city’s rich history and culture.
Women-Only
- Rabat: Enjoy a wine tasting of locally grown Moroccan wines with a delicious three-course lunch as the owner shares her insights into the industry.
- Fes: Indulge in a tasting menu at NUR Restaurant, meaning 'Light,' and meet Chef Najat Kaanache, who will share her passion for blurring the boundaries between art and gastronomy. Chef Kaanache has had successful careers as a television actress and professional chef in 3-star Michelin restaurants in three countries. She made history as the first and only Moroccan chef to work at the famed Spanish restaurant, El Bulli. Additionally, she is the host of "Cocina Marroqui,” AMC Network’s highest-rated new cooking series throughout Spain and 20 other Latin countries.
- Rissani: Indulge in a real taste of the region with a Madfouna lunch. Known as ‘Berber Pizza,’ this covered pizza is traditionally baked in the sands of the Sahara and is a delight filled with seasonal fillings and spices.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour to support local communities?
The tour includes a visit to the non-profit organisation Amal in Marrakesh, where you can learn to make Moroccan baked goods and support UN Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality. In Fes, you will visit the American Fondouk, a non-profit that cares for animals, supporting UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
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What cultural experiences can I expect during the tour?
You will have the opportunity to visit a traditional Moroccan spa, or hammam, in Marrakesh, which has been family-run for three generations. Additionally, you will explore the ancient Medina in Fes with a Local Expert, visit the Ksar of Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy a traditional Madfouna lunch in Rissani.
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Are there any special dining experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a four-course dinner with drinks at Rick's Café in Casablanca, made famous by the 1942 film. You will also enjoy a wine tasting with a three-course lunch in Rabat and a tasting menu at NUR Restaurant in Fes.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will stay in comfortable accommodations such as Gray Suites in Casablanca, Marriott Jnan Palace in Fes, Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud in Erfoud, Le Berbère Palace in Ouarzazate, Movenpick Mansour Eddahbi in Marrakesh, and Pullman Mazagan Royal Golf and Spa in El Jadida.
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What is the significance of the hammam experience in Marrakesh?
The hammam experience in Marrakesh is significant as it reflects a traditional Moroccan wellness practice that dates back to the early 7th century. The family-run hammam offers a complete wellness experience and is a reflection of family tradition and values.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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