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Louisville Federation Special Mission
DISCOVERY OF MOROCCO
March 14-25, 2026
Day 1- Shabbat, March 14 – Depart the USA for Casablanca.
Day 2- Sunday, March 15 –- ARRIVAL IN CASABLANCA – Arrival at Mohamed V Casablanca airport, you will be welcomed & assisted by our staff to be transferred to your hotel. (Please note that checking times apply at our start hotels, but you can store your luggage at the hotel if you arrive early.) Meet at 5PM for briefing and orientation - An Inside Look at Moroccan Culture: Orientation dialogue with your tour Expert Educator & local Moroccan tour guide, including an overview of your journey. We will hand welcome kit and short discussion on the target of our mission.
Dinner and overnight: Marriott Casablanca
Day 3 – Monday, March 16 - CASABLANCA – After breakfast, visit of Casablanca, located on the Atlantic Ocean is the business center of Morocco. It was established as a commercial center by the French. The architecture is a mix of modern, Art Deco and traditional.
First up on your tour is the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the biggest mosques in the world and a magnificent example of Islamic architecture. Admire its amazing elements, which include the magnificent tilework and superb craftsmanship throughout the mosque, as well as the impressive minaret that towers over the Atlantic Ocean. Visit the Beth-El Synagogue, which is still very active and is considered Casablanca's “main” synagogue. Meet with a member of the local Jewish community to discuss what life is like for a Jew today in Morocco. Guided visit through the Museum of the Jews of Morocco. Then, take in the vibrant atmosphere of Mohammed V Square, the beating center of the city. Admire the stunning clock tower, the elegant center fountain, and the courthouse with a French influence, among the other impressive architectural features of the surrounding area. As residents and visitors gathered in this lively public area, you can feel Casablanca's vibrancy.
After Ocean view lunch in a local restaurant, you will discover the quaint Habbous Quarter, also referred to as the New Medina. Wander through its narrow paths, filled with traditional shops, busy markets, and aromatic spice sellers. Enjoy the vibrant ambiance while taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of typical Moroccan life. Without taking in Casablanca's coastline charm, a visit would not be complete. Visit the magnificent Corniche, a promenade by the sea that is bordered by palm trees and has chic eateries, cafés, and shops. Enjoy the fresh coastal breeze while taking a leisurely stroll along the shore and taking in the stunning sights of the Atlantic coast. End the day with a Yoga class before heading to your rooms to refresh and get ready for Dinner. we will enjoy dinner in a local restaurant. Overnight: Marriott Casablanca
Day 4 – Tuesday, March 17 – CASABLANCA-RABAT – After breakfast, departure to Rabat, the city of Kings, recently granted UNESCO Heritage Site status. Rabat, the Administrative capital of Morocco, was founded in 1146 by the Almohads, as a fortress (the name Rabat comes from the Arabic Ribaat, meaning "fortified place") from where to launch attacks on Spain a few years after the capital of the Empire was moved there by Yaqub al Mansour, under whose reign the Koutoubia in Marrakech had been built. He started to build in Rabat what would be the world's largest mosque at the time, but works stopped when he died; the unfinished minaret known as Hassan Tower – less than half its intended height – bear witness of this attempt. Yaqub al Mansour also erected the city walls and expanded and restored the Kasbah of the Udayas, former stronghold of the Almoravids in the area.
We will explore Morocco’s beautiful capital, Rabat, on this private half-day tour. You’ll visit the major landmarks, and hear some stories you wouldn’t find in any guide book from your local guide. Visit Chellah, the mausoleum of Mohannad V, Hassan Tower, Kasbah des Oudayas, and much more including lunch at a local restaurant.
1. Chellah is a necropolis and complex of ancient Roman Mauretania Tingitana and medieval ruins at the outskirts of Rabat. It is the most ancient human settlement on the mouth of the Bou Regreg River.
2. Mausoleum of Mohammed V Located on the opposite side of Yaakub Al Mansour esplanade. It contains the tombs of the Moroccan king Mohammed V and his two sons, late King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah.
3. Hassan tower It's the minaret of an incomplete mosque.
4. Kasbah des Oudayas - the Kasbah is located at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River, built in the twelfth century by the Almohads who called it “Al Mahdia”.
Continue to Fes.
Dinner and overnight: Dar Lys Luxuary Riad & Spa
Day 5 – Wednesday, March 18 – FES - Nestled within the historic heart of Morocco, Fez beckons with its ancient medina, vibrant souks, and rich cultural tapestry. A full-day exploration promises a sensory journey through time, blending the old and the new seamlessly.
Explore the Medina - as the first rays of the sun caress the city, begin your day by immersing yourself in the UNESCO-listed medina of Fez. The scent of exotic spices wafts through the narrow alleys as you navigate the labyrinthine streets. Admire the intricate architecture of Bou Inania Madrasa, a marvel of Islamic art, and let the soothing sounds of the Quranic verses echo in the courtyard.
Tanneries and Craftsmanship - Continue your adventure discovering the vibrant craftsmanship of Fez. A visit to the Chouara Tannery is a must, where age-old techniques of leather production unfold before your eyes. Witness the kaleidoscope of colors, from vibrant reds to deep blues, as artisans meticulously dye and treat the leather. Nearby, explore the Souk Attarine, a bustling market filled with aromatic spices, woven textiles, and handcrafted ceramics.
Traditional Flavors - Pause for a leisurely lunch at one of the city's hidden gems. Enjoy a tagine or couscous in a riad courtyard, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of a fountain. Let the flavors of Moroccan cuisine tantalizes your taste buds, offering a true feast for the senses.
Fez's Museum of Jewish culture – recently opened and define as a unique masterpiece.
Royal Palace and Gardens - step into the regal past of Fez starting at the exteriors of the Royal
Palace. Marvel at the intricately decorated gates and walls, capturing the essence of Moroccan architecture. Stroll through the lush Jnan Sbil Gardens, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, providing a serene contrast to the bustling medina.
Late Afternoon: Al-Attarine Madrasa and Tea Time - As the day unfolds, make your way to the Al-Attarine Madrasa, another architectural gem adorned with exquisite tilework. Absorb the serene atmosphere and take a moment for contemplation in the courtyard. Afterwards, indulge in a traditional Moroccan tea ceremony at a local café, savoring the sweet minty elixir while observing the vibrant street life. Dinner and overnight: Dar Lys Luxury Riad & Spa, Fes
Day 6 –Thursday, March 19 - ERFOUD-MERZOUGA – Following breakfast, departure to Erfoud, a city located in southeast Morocco. We will cross the Middle Atlas and drive via Ifrane, the famous ski resort towards Erfoud. Although many ancient fortified villages have existed in the region for several centuries, Erfoud was built up by the French troops after the victory at Tafilalet that ended years of battle in 1932. While it is a modern Moroccan desert town, it still preserves the authenticity of a true Arab city with an impressively wild market and gorgeous surrounding landscapes filled with oases, dunes, and Rocky Mountains. Erfoud is a cinematic inspiration for movie directors. Many movies have been filmed in Erfoud, including Prince of Persia, March or Die, and The Mummy. Take the 4-wheels drive cars to the gigantic Merzouga dunes. Upon arrival, a welcoming mint tea will be presented. Rest and relax in this amazing desert resort. For these of you who will want we will take a short walk into the dunes. Dinner and overnight: Xaluca Le Riad, Merzouga Desert
Day 7 - Friday, March 20 – MERZOUGA DUNES - Very early wake-up, take the camels and enjoy an outstanding ride along the dunes to attend one of the most magnificent sunrise in the world. We will dedicate this days driving in the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes of Merzouga by Jeeps. We will visit a local village and listen to Gnaoua music and dance, discover the lead mines, and Nomad families living in Berber-
style tents. We will see more of the special Sahara villages as well as collection of fossils from the time Sahara was an ocean. After lunch drive back to Erfoud. Dinner and overnight: Xaluca Erfoud
Day 8 – Shabbat, March 21 – ERFOUD-OUARZAZATE - Following breakfast drive along the Todra canyons situated on the east side of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco. The Todra Gorge bis recognized around the world as one of the most spectacular canyons. Here, both the Todra and Dades Rivers have carved out cliff-sided canyons on their final 25 –mile stretch through the mountains, leaving behind this series of reliefs and etches in the rock. We will learn about the very unique Jewish community who lived isolated in this area. We are following the famous 1,000 Casaba road. Dinner and overnight: Berber Palace, Ouarzazate
Day 9 –Sunday, March 22 – OUARZAZATE-MARRAKECH - Ouarzazate was once crossing point for African traders seeking to reach northern cities in Morocco and Europe. Spend some time exploring the sights. Visit the UNESCO-listed fortified village of Ait Benhaddou in the High Atlas Mountains. This is the most amazing fortress in the South of Morocco. It is built on the left side of the salty valley on a hill, its unique location and natural décor make the village the main shooting location for famous films such as Lawrence of Arabia and Jesus of Nazareth. Each door, each courtyard holds its architectural treasure and terraces on top of buildings offer beautiful view of the village and the river below. We will enjoy a tasty lunch as we cross the Atlas again towards Marrakech. Arrive in Marrakech, check into your hotel. In the evening, enjoy great dinner at a local restaurant. Dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight: La Mamounia, Marrakech
Day 10 – Monday, March 23 – MARRAKECH – Marrakech was founded in 1062 by one of the chieftains of the Almoravid king Youssuf ibn Tashfin. The Almoravids were desert warriors, very much attached to their Islamic religion; the original garrison developed very quickly into a city where numerous mosques and madrasas (Koranic schools) were built. Andalusian craftsmen built and decorated several palaces, merging their style with the Saharan and African traditions, which gave the city a distinctive architectural flavor. Nowadays, Marrakech is a vibrant city which exhibits a curious blend of the ancient and the modern, allowing travelers the chance to experience the genuine medieval atmosphere of the old medina, and visit the trendiest bars, art galleries and restaurants in the French Quarter, Gueliz, built at the beginning of the 20th Century. Highlights of your visit will include:
El Bahia Palace – built in the 19th Century, and decorated by the best artisans of Morocco at the time, this palace intended to be the most magnificent of its age – features an exquisite blend of Andalusian and Moorish styles. Especially interesting are the harem apartments, the trapezoidal garden, and a huge tiled courtyard with fountains.
The Koranic School Medersa Ben Youssef – Theological college was founded by the Merenid Sultan Abu Hassan in the 14th century and restored in 1564 by the Saadians who made it the largest theological college in the Maghreb and a rival to the important Medersa Bou Inania in Fes.
The Koutoubia Mosque – Built by the Almohads in the late years of 12 th Century, the Koutoubia Mosque, and specially its minaret, is the most important landmark of Marrakech, and a symbol of the city itself; The minaret served as model for the Giralda in Sevilla and the unfinished Tour Hassan in Rabat, all three being designed by the same architect. Koutoubia means "booksellers", as the trade of books was concentrated in the neighborhood during the Middle Ages. The minaret of the Koutoubia, 77 meters high, is visible from almost any point of the city – an old ordinance, still in force, forbids any building of Marrakech to surpass the Koutoubia minaret in height.
The Souks - Filling the alleys north of Djmaa el Fna is the souk, or traditional market – the largest one in Morocco. It is, in turn, subdivided in some 18 souks, each one of them devoted to a specific trade or craftsmanship – from spices or ironwork, to the ingredients necessary for casting magic spells. The number of shops often not bigger in size than a closet is overwhelming, and in them Moroccans can indulge in one of the activities that they enjoy most: bargaining, Cunning, patience, sense of humor and strategy are needed for the game. Try your skills at it! We'll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant including a show, Belly dancers and D.J. overnight: La Mamounia, Marrakech
Day 11 – Tuesday, March 24 –SECRETS OF MOROCCAN CUISINE - After breakfast, departure for cooking class: Moroccan cuisine is rich, both in terms of the spectrum of ingredients as well as its history. Learn all about local spices and ingredients from an expert cooking teacher. Who knows, by the time you're done experimenting with the mouth-watering local ingredients. You might pick up a few secrets from the skilled chef to take back home and brag a little!
After lunch, visit Majorelle Gardens, Dramatic cacti and a backdrop of cobalt, yellow and mint make the Majorelle Gardens Insta-fabulous. But they’re not just about picture perfect moments. We will discover the story of Majorelle encapsulates the creative history of Marrakech – and its place as a hub for some of the twentieth century’s most famous creatives. French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé bought Jardine Majorelle in 1980 to preserve the vision of its original owner, French landscape painter Jacques Majorelle, and keep it open to the public. We will visit YSL museum. In the evening farewell dinner at one of the best restaurants. overnight: La Momounia, Marrakech
Day 13 – Thursday, March 25 – DEPARTURE – transfer to the airport for your flight home hopefully, with lots of unforgettable memories.
The Trip is Sold Out
Please contact us to enter the waitlist:
Nirtoursmail4u@gmail.com
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