explore FOUR enchanting imperial cities
Step into the mystical and vibrant culture and colorful backdrops that are distinctively Morocco and encounter its vast history within its four extraordinary Imperial Cities. Distinguished by its Berber, Arabian and European cultural influences, Morocco opens its ancient and new world wonders to all who visit. Explore Rabat on guided walking tour with an insider to learn its mystical lore; Journey to Fes to discover one of the holiest cities in the world and stroll the ancient souks (markets) selling tempting hand-crafted artisan wares. Venture out through the Sahara Desert into a luxurious and magical Berber glamping tented-oasis. While in the Sahara, caravan by camelback across the dunes with a Berber guide; visit a local date farmer and wandering nomadic community. Relax in the Dades Valley, a mountain paradise below the High Atlas mountains that has panoramic views sprinkled with friendly Berber villages. As the Adventure continues, explore Dades Gorge, one of the most spectacular canyons in the world, and journey the rugged “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” to the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou fortress. Wander the mesmerizing labyrinth paths of Marrakech’s medieval quarters of its Medina. Encounter authentic Moroccan hospitality and taste the myriad of flavors of Morocco during an interactive cooking class and culinary workshop at a women’s cooperative. While in Marrakech, walk in the footsteps of Yves St Laurent through the floral paths of the Jardin Marjorelle that inspired the designer. Experience authentic culinary experiences become enchanted with Morocco on this extraordinary Adventure filled with
This is a private THIRDHOME small-group tour with a maximum occupancy of 18-24. Our group size is kept small, allowing this Adventure to be a more engaging and rewarding experience for participants. On this active, immersive journey, travelers will connect with the culture of Morocco in an authentic and more intimate way.
Who Can Participate
Exchange Club & Adventure Club Members, along with their family & friends ● Age requirement 14+
Activity Level
To experience this unique destination, you will need to be able to participate in physical activities such as longer walking tours, walking over uneven terrain, climbing stairs and various time-period lengths of standing (between 1-2 hrs). You can navigate hills and uneven ground, climb onboard various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk/rickshaw, cable car, camel, etc), and adapt to changes in elevation. You can expect some longer days with your expert guide team, balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own to explore as you wish. Some of the touring days may be longer, with select included group activities in addition to occasional meals with your group.
MOROCCO ADVENTURE HIGHLIGHTS
- Immerse yourself in the four historic Imperial Cities of Morocco (Fes, Marrakech, Meknes, Rabat)
- Experience the diverse Arabic, Islamic, Jewish and African cultures
- Enjoy a traditional Moroccan welcome dinner in Casablanca
- Explore the cobbled alleyways of history in ancient Rabat & Meknes
- Visit the artisan marketplace in Fes on a walking tour of the Medina
- Partake in an authentic Moroccan dinner at a Riad with a local family
- Engage in a culinary workshop and market shopping with a local woman’s co-op
- Venture out in 4WD vehicles into the Sahara Desert
- Sleep under the stars in a Berber glamping oasis in Royal Tents
- Caravan by camel-back through the serene Sahara sand dunes
- Visit a local farmer and wandering nomadic community
- See the majestic Atlas Mountains within the Dades Gorge, known as Morocco’s “Grand Canyon”
- Journey the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs to the UNESCO site of Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou fortress
- Finale Moroccan Marrakech Dinner in an opulent palace
- Choose to add an optional Premium Experience: Details can be found at the bottom of this Adventure page
PRIORITY ACCESS TO PREVIOUSLY BOOKED MEMBERS
CHOOSE OCT 8 – 21 (OR) OCT 15 – 28, 2021
Itinerary
Collapse AllFRIDAY, OCTOBER 8 (OR) OCT 15, 2021
ARRIVAL INTO CASABLANCA – TRANSFER TO RABAT
EXPAND ALL to view itinerary….
Arrival flights are required into Casablanca (which is located 1-hr scenic drive to Rabat where our Adventure will begin); all guest arrivals will be met and greeted at the Casablanca airport for ground transfers into Rabat as needed for our group.
On this captivating Adventure through a land of centuries-old culture and customs, discover Morocco, the “Land of Sunset” and “Gateway to Africa”. Your journey begins upon arrival into Casablanca, with a meet and greet at the airport. Vehicle transfer provided by Collette Tours to the historical ancient city of Rabat, approximately one hour away. Depending on your arrival time into Rabat due to your scheduled flight reservations, join-up with fellow travelers on an early evening scenic walking tour with your guide. Relax this evening with overnight accommodations at ONOMO Hotel Terminus Rabat.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9 (OR) OCT 16, 2021
RABAT EXPLORATION & FREE TIME
Enjoy breakfast this morning in our hotel; depart for an in-depth exploration tour of Rabat with a local guide who will share his knowledge of this city and its architectural wonders. Visit the Chellah Necropolis, an extraordinary walled-town containing both Roman ruins and a medieval royal cemetery. Explore the Mausoleum of Mohammed V., which is considered the epitome of modern Moroccan design. The mausoleum’s ornate woodwork, marble, and bronze ornamentations make this a tomb truly fit for a king. Continue onward to view the Kasbah de Oudaias and its whitewashed buildings. Enjoy free time to shop or explore the city further at your own leisure this afternoon. This evening join your fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight accommodations at ONOMO Hotel Terminus Rabat. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10 (OR) OCT 17, 2021
DEPART RABAT – JOURNEY TO FES
After breakfast, depart Rabat for a scenic journey to Fes this morning. En route to Fes, we will make a stop at a unique winery estate for a wonderful lunch. Afterwards, explore the winery’s lovely grounds on a guided tour through the vineyard and cellar, taking in sweeping views of vines and tasting some of the vintages. We will continue onward to Fes, with the evening free to relax or explore the city on your own. Overnight accommodations at Palais Scheherazade & Spa Fes. (Breakfast and Lunch included)
MONDAY, OCTOBER 11 (OR) OCT 18, 2021
FES EXPLORATION
After breakfast, discover enchanting Fes, one of the holiest cities in the world. With a UNESCO protected medina, it is one of Morocco’s top medieval gems. Learn its history as a government seat, and step into its lore filled with philosophy, medicine
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12 (OR) OCT 19, 2021
FES ON YOUR OWN & OPTIONAL SIGHTSEEING
Today enjoy a full day at leisure in Fes, a city filled with wonderment and intrigue worthy of exploring in depth. Begin with a stroll through its marketplaces or visit its interesting museums. Perhaps consider joining into an “Optional Tour” with your fellow travelers to Volubilis and Meknes. On this full-day tour, experience this extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage site, with its impressive and well preserved Roman ruins. Then travel to Meknes, one of four Imperial cities in Morocco where you will see the Bab Mansour gate and have an included locally authentic Moroccan lunch. After the tour, return to our Fes hotel for the evening to relax and enjoy dinner on your own. Overnight accommodations at Palais Scheherazade & Spa Fes. (Breakfast and Lunch included)
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 13 (OR) OCT 20, 2021
DEPART FES – JOURNEY TO ERFOUD
Depart Fes after breakfast and journey across some of Morocco’s most breathtaking desert landscapes on the way to the Erfoud in The Sahara. En route, we will visit the town of Midelt, located in the high plains between Middle Atlas and High Atlas mountain ranges, making it the perfect stopping point to bask in its majestic views. We will continue onward to Erfoud, mystically referred to as “The Door to the Desert”, and where many famous movies were filmed, including The Prince of Persia and The Mummy. Check-into our hotel, and this evening enjoy a relaxing group dinner. Overnight accommodations at Kasbah Xaluca Erfoud. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14 (OR) OCT 21, 2021
DEPART ERFOUD – INTO SAHARA DESERT CLAMPING
Enjoy the morning at leisure in Erfoud, taking in the peaceful desert landscape a little longer. After lunch on your own, we depart Erfoud and travel to a local date farm with an exclusive opportunity to tour and interact with the farmer to learn about the process of farming in the desert. Afterwards we will continue onward with our explorative journey, making our way by 4×4 jeep further into the Sahara Desert to our tented camp for a magical 2-night stay. This evening we will enjoy a memorable group dinner in the Berber cultural tradition. Overnight glamping at Jannat Luxury Camp in Luxury Tents. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15 (OR) OCT 22, 2021
SAHARA DESERT GLAMPING
Rise early, enjoy breakfast, and watch the sun illuminate the Sahara in stunning hues of orange, yellow and red. This morning begin the adventure of the region, viewing the beautiful expanse of the desert on a camel-back caravan-safari. Afterwards we will journey by 4×4 vehicles to the local village of Khamlia and encounter an eye-opening and meaningful discussion with the local people before experiencing a wonderful traditional sub-Saharan Gnawa musical performance. We will then traverse onward in our desert expedition to meet a nomadic community where we will learn more about their ancient way of living and how their traditions have evolved. We will make our way back to camp as the sun sets over the dunes. This evening, reflect on the serenity and beauty of the desert under a tapestry of twinkling stars. Overnight glamping at Jannat Luxury Camp in Luxury Tents. (Breakfast, Lunch
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16 (OR) OCT 23, 2021
DEPART SAHARA DESERT – TO BOUMAINE DU DADES VALLEY
After an early morning breakfast, return to the edge of the desert to marvel one last time at its breathtaking beauty as the sun illuminates the vast sands. We will depart and journey to visit the fortified ancient village of El Khorbat Outdid, which dates back to the 17th Century. This picturesque village showcases Jewish and Muslim architecture and artifacts in their utmost glory. We will also learn more about Berber culture while visiting the museum within the village. Afterwards we will journey onward into Morocco’s “Grand Canyon,” Boumalne du Dades, where a golden sun lights up the gorge’s river valleys, palmeries and burnished mud-brick homes. This evening, enjoy a delicious local Moroccan meal together with the group. Overnight accommodations at Hotel Xaluca Dades Boumalne du Dades. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 17 (OR) OCT 24, 2021
UNESCO KSAR OF AIT-BEN-HADDOU SITE – TO MARRAKECH
Following breakfast, journey down the rugged less-traveled “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” where turreted fortresses rise up like
MONDAY, OCTOBER 18 (OR) OCT 25, 2021
MARRAKECH EXPLORATION & YOUR CHOICE EXCURSION
This morning enjoy breakfast and set out to explore Marrakech to marvel at its majestic mosques and palaces, bustling souks and artisan studios. Visit the ancient El Bahia Palace, whose architecture is a distinct blend of both Islamic and Moroccan styles. We will continue onward to explore the vibrant Jewish Mellah, the majestic 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque and pass the Royal Palace on a tour of the ancient city wall. This afternoon its “Your Choice” to choose an excursion you desire to experience – Option 1 visit to the Jardin Majorelle gardens and the Berber Museum, two iconic sites that showcase beauty and ingenuity of Morocco’s cultural heritage (OR) Option 2 explore the Musee Yves Saint Laurent and gain an inside-look at his studio where you will discover how the colors and textures of Morocco inspired this iconic designer. This evening, consider adding the optional Premium Experience, a Marrakech At Night Tour. Overnight accommodations at Es Saadi Palace Hotel Marrakech. (Breakfast included)
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 19 (OR) OCT 26, 2021
MARRAKECH FULL-DAY EXPLORATION
Following breakfast, join a local women’s cooperative in an interactive Moroccan cooking class. Tucked away into a secret posh era of time, visit Le Jardin, a complex of stately architectural Arab-Andalusian and Moroccan palaces filled with gardens. Here we will source our own herbs and vegetables and learn the secret to making the country’s most celebrated fragrant dish prepared in the traditional ceramic or clay cookware, the tagging. Enjoy the late afternoon on your own exploring the city as you wish or relax. This evening consider an Optional Experience via a horse-drawn carriage ride through Marrakech, followed by dinner at a wonderful local restaurant. Overnight accommodations at Es Saadi Palace Hotel Marrakech. (Breakfast and Lunch included)
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20 (OR) OCT 27, 2021
DEPART MARRAKECH – TO CASABLANCA
Depart Marrakech for Casablanca this morning after breakfast. Upon arrival into Casablanca, visit the largest functioning mosque in Africa, the Hassan II Mosque. Learn about its glorious history and significance on a privately-led exclusive tour. Gaze upon the intricate, colorful artistry of ceramic tile and hand-carved stone of this architectural wonder. Late afternoon enjoy some leisure time or relax at the hotel. This evening we will bid farewell to the Tour Manager and fellow travelers during a Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight at Barcelo Anfa Casablanca. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21 (OR) OCT 28, 2021
CASABLANCA – TOUR ENDS
Our Morocco Adventure ends today with a departure transfer to the Casablanca airport for check-in of your return international flight or onward flight. Departure flight times for your onward destination can be any time, however if you elect to add-on the transfers with our group Adventure, we recommend flight departures between 11AM – 1PM.
OPTIONAL PRE & POST NIGHTS
EXPLORE CASABLANCA LONGER
Would you like to extend the Adventure with an additional night at the end of the tour in Casablanca? Please refer to “Premium Experiences” below for extension night accommodations provided at the Barcelo Anfa Casablanca Hotel.
Accommodations
Enjoy 4 & 5-star boutique accommodations throughout the Adventure at the following properties:
– 2 Nights: ONOMO Hotel Terminus (Rabat)
– 3 Nights: Palais Sheherazade & Spa (Fes)
– 1 Night: Kasbah Xaluca (Erfoud)
– 2 Nights: Jannat Luxury Camp (Sahara Desert Glamping)
– 1 Night: Hotel Xaluca Dades (Boumalne de Dades Valley)
– 3 Nights: Es Saadi Palace Hotel (Marrakech)
– 1 Night: Barcelo Anfa Casablanca (Casablanca)
What’s Included
- 13 nights in deluxe and luxury accommodations (4 & 5-star properties) throughout group itinerary – 2 Nights Rabat; 3 Nights Fes; 1 Night Erfound; 2 Nights Sahara Desert Glamping Camp; 1 Night Morocco’s Grand Canyon (Boumalne du Dades); 3 Nights Marrakech; 1 Night Casablanca
- Small-group motorcoach or 4×4 vehicle transportation where applicable in each destination, depending on itinerary requirements
- 24 group meals including 13 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches
and 8 Dinners - Insider regional guides within destination throughout Adventure
- All planned small-group activities as noted in Adventure itinerary
What’s not Included
- International airfare and/or domestic flights if required based on where traveling from
- Arrival Airport Transfer (1-hr drive) – additional cost $50 per person (from Casablanca airport to Rabat)
- Departure Airport Transfer in Casablanca – additional cost $50 per person
- Meals “on your own” when not provided in the scheduled group itinerary
- Pre or post other destination or regional extensions before or after Morocco
- Any additional pre or post hotel night accommodations in Casablanca
- Optional Premium Experiences – sightseeing excursions operated by Collette Tours
- “Cancel for Any Reason” travel insurance at $399 per person (refer to pricing details)
OPTIONAL Premium Experiences
Add this Premium Experience in Marrakech
Marrakech by Night Tour | $90 per person | Duration: 3 Hours – With a local insider guide, embark on an exploration of the bustling Jemaa el Fna main square and market of Marrakech, as it comes alive at night. Prepare for a sensory overload as you walk through the square on this immersive guided tour – smell the intoxicating culinary creations from the diverse culinary food stalls and listen to the rhythms of local musicians and entertainers. Storytellers often have
Add this Premium Experience in Fes
Volubilis & Meknes UNESCO Site (Fes) | $60 per person | Duration: 8 Hours –Discover Morocco’s fascinating history on a full-day tour from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes. Marvel at Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its impressive and well preserved Roman ruins, one of the most important Roman sites in North Africa. Afterwards, journey onward into Meknes, one of four Imperial cities in Morocco where you will see the Bab Mansour gate, one of the best examples of Almohad architecture. Enjoy a wonderful traditional lunch with your fellow travelers at a local restaurant. Transportation is included.
Additional Post Hotel Nights in Casablanca
Barcelo Anfa Casablanca | $220 per night| Deluxe Room – Post night end of tour additional nights can be added-on as needed, depending on departure flight times to your onward destination or home-return. Pricing is the same whether Single or Double occupancy room. Please note that any Pre Hotel Nights in Casablanca or Rabat at the beginning of our tour are not offered; guests on own.
Adventure Pricing
$3099 per person (based on Double Occupancy)
$3999 Single Occupancy
DEPOSIT REQUIRED to confirm: $500 per person
FINAL PAYMENT DUE DATE: JUL 1st, 2021
Deposits are refundable if the Adventure is cancelled or postponed by Collette Tours. Adventure is non-refundable after final payments have been made. This Adventure requires 24 people to operate at the price quoted; if less participants join this adventure than an increase in cost would be required.
OPTIONAL “Cancel for Any Reason” Travel Insurance: $399 per person
Insurance is required to be purchased at
Adventure is non-refundable after
THIRDHOME strongly recommends that all travelers purchase travel insurance prior to participating in a THIRDHOME Adventure and that all such insurance be purchased when a tour deposit is made. THIRDHOME travelers can purchase travel insurance through (1) the THIRDHOME preferred provider Allianz Travel or (2) the traveler’s insurance provider of choice. THIRDHOME will require proof of such travel insurance protection when a tour deposit is made.
Any traveler that elects not to purchase travel insurance, by either of the above means, agrees to release THIRDHOME from liability for any loss of funds incurred due to the cancellation of a specific THIRDHOME Adventure as a result of, but not limited to, an act of God, a failure to purchase travel insurance, the cessation of business with respect to a tour operator/ground operator, the failure of a tour operator/ground operator to refund consumer deposits or payments within 120 days following the cancellation of a THIRDHOME Adventure or a material failure to complete performance of a THIRDHOME Adventure.
CURRENT Collette Tours CORONAVIRUS UPDATE
This Adventure is provided in partnership with Collette tours.