Morocco

Fez, Marrakech, Meknes and Rabat are known as the Imperial Cities, each having been the country’s capital at some time during its history. Rabat, the present capital of Morocco, was founded in the 12th century. It is a town of trees and flowers and many monumental gateways including the Gate of the Ambassadors and the Oudaias Kasbah Gate. Meknes is protected by 16km of battlements flanked by towers and bastions. The city boasts a wonderful souk and the old town is listed by UNESCO, as a World Heritage Site. About 30km from Meknes, the Roman ruins at Volubilis are also on UNESCO’S list. Fez is the most ancient and impressive of the Imperial Cities, built in the 8th century; it has more history and mystery than anywhere else in Morocco. The medina in Fes El Bali is one of the largest in the world and it is also on UNESCO’S list. Here, one can buy almost anything; it is particularly good for carpets, rugs and ornate metalwork. Marrakech was once the capital of an empire, which stretched from Toledo to Senegal. Called the “ Pink City” because of the colour of the local earth used in its construction, it is a city of labyrinthine alleyways, secluded palaces, museums, mosques and markets. The Djemmaa-el-Fna, the city square comes alive after nightfall; thronged with dancers, fortunetellers, musicians, acrobats, storytellers and snake charmers. The medina, also on UNESCO’S list, is crammed with architectural masterpieces. Beautiful hotels, riads, restaurants rapped in the mystery, colours and smells of the country make this trip an unforgettable experience.

*** Fly into and out of Casablanca through a European point and then option of either surface transfer in between cities or domestic flights.