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Morocco All-Lesbian Adventure Tour
Apr 25 - May 08, 2025
May 09 - May 22, 2025
From Casablanca to Marrakech, Morocco
Join us for a 14-day all-lesbian adventure tour through a land rich in culture, tradition, historic cities, lively markets, desert sands, and rugged mountains. Located in North Africa, Morocco is a vibrant country with tantalizing cuisine, welcoming locals, beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and incredible architecture. With a past stretching back nearly 10,000 years, Morocco has been crisscrossed by Roman legions, Berber caravans, and Muslim scholars. On your journey through this ancient land, you will be immersed in all the splendors it has to offer from its Saharan sands, colorful markets, radiant culture, traditions that span generations, and historical sites all in the company of Olivia.
Day 1 - Friday, April 25, 2025 / May 9, 2025
Welcome to Casablanca! Also known by its Arabic name, Dar al-Bayda, and sharing its name with the 1942 film that made it famous, Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and is the known for its fascinating architecture from Art Deco to modern styles. Casablanca has a vibrant art and cultural scene with an abundance of Art Deco villas that now are home to many galleries and museums around the city.
Upon arrival, you will be met once you step off the plane and will be escorted through customs and immigration, passing by the long lines, and into baggage claim. After you have claimed your luggage, you will be escorted out to your driver and vehicle for your transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax at the hotel or explore the city on your own. This evening you will step back in time as you are transported to the golden age of Casablanca and enjoy a welcome dinner at the famous Ricks Café. Overnight at the Barcelo Anfa Casablanca Hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Barcelo Anfa Casablanca Hotel, Casablanca, 5*
Day 2 - Saturday, April 26, 2025 / May 10, 2025
After breakfast at the hotel, you will gather your things and depart for a full day’s adventure in Casablanca and Rabat.
The morning will begin with a half-day tour of Casablanca with your first stop at the undisputedly must-see site, the Hassan II Mosque. It is the largest functioning mosque in Africa and is the 7th largest in the world, completed in 1993 by over 10,000 of the finest craftsmen. It is the only mosque in Morocco that non-Muslims may visit. Your guide will take you through the mosque for a deeper look at the intricate work and history of this incredible structure.
Next you will board your coach for the Museum of Moroccan Judaism. Established in 1997, it is the only museum devoted to Judaism in the Arab world and is known for the abundance of rich culture, artifacts and traditions left behind when the Jewish people left Morocco in the 1960s.
Departing Casablanca, you’ll head for Rabat, the capital city of Morocco, known for landmarks that speak to its Islamic and French colonial heritage. The remainder of the day will be spent on a city tour of Rabat where you will visit The Royal Palace (this site will be explored from the outside as it is not allowed to enter the palace), Hassan Tower & Mohammed V Mausoleum, the Kasbah of Oudayas and a cultural tour of the Medina. Dinner and overnight at the Fairmont Residences La Marina Hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Fairmont Residences La Marina Hotel, Rabat, 5*
Day 3 - Sunday, April 27, 2025 / May 11, 2025
This morning you will depart for Tangier, a northwestern city located on the Strait of Gibraltar, that is a captivating blend of cultures and influences. The city's medina, with its narrow streets and whitewashed buildings adorned with blue accents, creates a striking visual contrast against the blue sky. The vibrant hues of orange, red, and yellow found in the bustling markets, or souks, awaken the senses and ignite the artistic spirit within.
Tangier has long been a haven for writers and literary minds seeking inspiration and refuge. From the legendary Beat Generation writers like Paul Bowles and William S. Burroughs to the famous Moroccan writer Mohammed Choukri, Tangier's literary scene has left an indelible mark on the world of literature.
You will spend the day enjoying the highlights of Tangier starting with a visit to Cape Spartel. A promontory rising over 1,000 feet above sea level, Cape Spartel is the most northwestern point of mainland Africa and sits at the entrance of the Strait of Gibraltar. Below Cape Spartel are the Caves of Hercules, an archaeological cave complex. The Caves of Hercules complex has two openings, with one facing the sea and the other facing land. The one facing the Mediterranean Sea was carved by waves and resembles the shape of Africa, while the one facing land was carved by the local Berber from the rock.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you will be nourished and ready to continue your city tour of the old Medina and the Tangier American Legation Museum, the first American public property abroad and the only US National Historic Landmark located in a foreign country. Dinner tonight is on your own at your leisure. Overnight is at the Fairmont Tazi Palace.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Fairmont Tazi Palace Hotel, Tangier, 5*
Day 4 - Monday, April 28, 2025 / May 12, 2025
Today, you will board your coach departing Tangier, after breakfast, for Chefchaouen. Known for its striking, blue-washed buildings and its calming charms, Chefchaouen was founded in 1471 AD. Today, you will visit the remarkable Talassemtane Women’s Cooperative, created in 2004 in the city center of Chefchaouen. This cooperative is made up of six young women who are experts in textile crafts and traditional products. The cooperative creates innovative products made with a high level of quality. Santander Bank, as part of their social and economic development initiative intended to support women's employment and community development, chose the Talassemtane Women's Cooperative as one of their nine Moroccan projects because of their commitment to helping women.
This afternoon you have free time to visit the Kasbah in the center of town, with its breathtaking panoramic views from the top of the tower. Meander up to the town’s waterfall, where locals meet to chat and do laundry and where you can dip your toes in the water at one of the riverbank’s small coffee shops. Even if there’s no time to hike into the nearby mountains, take the short walk up the hill to the old Spanish Mosque and observe the sunset over the charming Blue Village. Dinner and overnight will be at the Lina Ryad & Spa.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Lina Ryad & Spa, Chefchaouen, 5*
Day 5 - Tuesday, April 29, 2025 / May 13, 2025
After breakfast we depart Chefchaouen and drive through the Moroccan countryside towards Fez stopping in Volubilis and Meknes along the way.
First, you will be introduced to Volubilis, a once thriving Roman city, dating back to the 3rd century BCE, which lies on a rich river valley with the dark Zerhoun mountain ridge as a backdrop. It served as the capital of the Roman province of Mauretania Tingitana, and its strategic location along the trade routes brought wealth and cultural influences from across the empire. Here you can soak in the history of the area as you see some of the most preserved mosaics of the Roman era in Morocco.
Your next stop will be at one of the finest vineyards in the area where you will do a tour and tasting, exploring the five essential steps of wine tasting: sight, swirl, sniff, sip, and savor. This will be followed by a lovely lunch at the vineyard.
Then we invite you to step into the glorious city of Meknes, a hidden gem in Morocco that boasts a rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor. Meknes' doors are more than mere entrances; they are gateways that transport us to a bygone era. The city's historic walls and grand gates, such as Bab Mansour and Bab El-Khemis, stand as testaments to Meknes' strategic importance and its storied past. Adorned with intricate carvings, ornamental details, and towering arches, these doors evoke a sense of grandeur and invite us to delve deeper into Meknes' fascinating history.
Afterwards, transfer to the city of Fez. Dinner and overnight at Hotel Sahrai.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Sahrai Hotel, Fez, 5*
Day 6 - Wednesday, April 30, 2025 / May 14, 2025
Welcome to Fez, Morocco’s cultural capital! Founded in 781 AD, Fez is one of the most preserved medieval Islamic cities in the world as well as the world’s largest car-free urban zone. Take in this bustling city with mule-drawn carriages speeding through the alleyways, and where local pharmacies carry mysterious canisters of roots, flowers and powders. Fez is well known for its tanneries, where ancient techniques are still used to prepare Moroccan leather, which is used in a variety of goods from clothing to bags and other handicrafts.
This morning you will enjoy a pottery demonstration workshop to learn the traditional techniques used by local potters. After learning about the traditional pottery techniques of Morocco, you will visit the Dar El Makhzen Palace (the Royal Palace) for pictures and to take in the beautiful architecture, and stone and tile work that adorn the Palace’s façade.
You will then enter the old city to visit the medieval medina. When you stroll beneath the famous blue gate of Bab Boujeloud, you are seemingly transported 1,000 years back in time. The bustling cafés and outdoor markets quickly give way to quiet narrow streets. You will visit the inside of one of the religious schools Bou Inania or Attarine Medresa (School in Arabic).
This afternoon you will enjoy lunch with a local family as they welcome you into their Riad. You will have the opportunity to learn about their traditions and life in Fez while feasting on a traditional Moroccan meal. The riad is a 439-year-old family heritage. Mr. Rachid will host you with his family (wife and 4 children) to enrich your knowledge of the lifestyle in Fez through different generations.
After lunch, you will visit Foundouk El-Nejjarine, an 18th century roadside inn transformed into a museum dedicated to the wooden arts and crafts typical of Morocco. Following your visit to Foundouk El-Nejjarine, you will continue your day with a visit to one of the famous tanneries, which produces much of the city’s renowned leather. Few who visit a tannery are left underwhelmed. The sight of dozens of men, many waists deep in dyes, working at a trade few outside this world could see, is a sight to behold.
Before returning to your hotel, you will make one last brief stop to view the campus University of Al-Karaouiyine, founded in 895 CE. The founder, a woman named Fatima al-Fihri, used her inheritance to form a large mosque for her community with an associated school, known as a madrasa. Her intention was to give back to the community that had welcomed her family. Dinner and overnight at the Hotel Sahrai.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Sahrai Hotel, Fez, 5*
Day 7 - Thursday, May 1, 2025 / May 15, 2025
After breakfast, you will depart towards Merzouga passing by the mountainous town of Ifrane, often referred to as "Little Switzerland" or "Morocco's Switzerland". It is a picturesque town nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains of Morocco. This charming destination offers a unique blend of Moroccan and European influences, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a tranquil and culturally rich experience. Throughout the cedar forests of the Atlas Mountains that surround Azou live the Barbary macaques, also known as Barbary apes. This is one of the few places in the world where you can see these playful and charismatic monkeys in their natural habitats!
After lunch, you will continue to Erfoud, a captivating desert oasis town located in southeastern Morocco, considered a gateway to the Sahara Desert. From here, you will be transferred to the sandy dunes of Merzouga in 4x4 vehicles. After arriving at your desert camp, you will settle in before going on your sunset camel ride into the Sahara—if time does not allow for the camel ride, it will be at sunrise tomorrow. Later, you’ll dine under the starry night of desert at The Sandy Tents camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: The Sandy Tents Camp, Merzouga
Day 8 - Friday, May 2, 2025 / May 16, 2025
Today you climb into 4X4 vehicles and start your journey by driving over the same terrain and tracks that past drivers of the Paris Dakar Rally have traveled on. Amongst the many countries that the race takes place in, Morocco is said to be the most challenging and consequently a highlight due to its unforgiving, yet adventurous terrains.
Along the way into the Fossil Mountains, you will stop to visit and have tea with a nomadic tribe before continuing on your way onto Khamlia, a small village located on the edge of the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, distinguished by its residents of Gnawa and Berber ethnic origin, who reflect a strong history of ritual spirituality like music, dancing and healing. You will enjoy a Berber lunch made by the locals of Khamlia and have time to explore this desert village.
Tonight, back at camp, you will enjoy a wonderful dinner under the stars while listening to the rhythmic sounds from the folklore group of Khamlia village that have come to share the Gwana music of tribal sounds emanating from their drums and castanets. You will also take part in a special tradition hosted by henna tattoo women. Henna tattoos are a traditional way that Moroccan women beautify their hands and feet, particularly for special occasions and celebrations. Whether simple or intricate, Moroccan henna designs and styles can vary from one part of the country to another. It is a way of the south to welcome the guests and wish them a happy and comfortable life.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: The Sandy Tents Camp, Merzouga
Day 9 - Saturday, May 3, 2025 / May 17, 2025
The journey from Merzouga to Ouarzazate offers a mesmerizing tour through the heart of the Sahara Desert and its stunning surroundings. As you depart Merzouga by 4x4, you make a stop in Rissani, a town steeped in history and culture. Explore its vibrant market, known for its spices, textiles, and crafts. Your journey continues through the palm groves of Tinjdad and the lush Todra Valley in Tineghir. Here, you can take a scenic walk through the Todra Gorge, where towering cliffs frame a narrow canyon, providing breathtaking photo opportunities.
Passing through the captivating Dades Valley, known for its winding roads and dramatic rock formations, you will stop at various viewpoints to capture the stunning landscape on camera. Then, it’s onto Kelâat M’Gouna, known for its rose festival, followed by the splendid Skoura, an amazing desert oasis.
In the afternoon, arrive in Ouarzazate, often called the "Hollywood of Morocco" as it is a coveted filming location for numerous movies and TV series. Visit the impressive Kasbah Taourirt and the nearby Atlas Film Studios to see where films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were shot. Dinner and overnight at the boutique Riad Ksar Ighnda.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Ksar Ighnda Riad, Aït Ben Haddou, 4*
Day 10 - Sunday, May 4, 2025 / May 18, 2025
Your adventure begins with the Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of a well-preserved kasbah. This ancient, fortified village is a must-visit, as it has served as a backdrop for many famous films and TV shows. Explore its winding alleys and admire the mud-brick architecture.
The road trip from Ouarzazate to Marrakech promises a captivating journey through the High Atlas Mountains and historic sights. On the way, you'll ascend the spectacular Tizi n'Tichka Pass. The winding road takes you through the majestic High Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged terrain. Stop to enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal at a local restaurant.
After lunch, continue your drive to Marrakech, one of Morocco's most vibrant and iconic cities. Dinner and overnight at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marrakech Carre Eden.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Radisson Blu Marrakech Carre Eden Hotel, Marrakech, 5*
Day 11 - Monday, May 5, 2025 / May 19, 2025
Marrakech is a vibrant city known for its rich history and unique blend of cultures. This enchanting destination offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and tastes. Visitors can explore the bustling Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its labyrinthine streets, colorful souks, and stunning palaces like the Bahia Palace, the Koutoubia Minaret and the medina with its Jewish quarter. Lunch will be at Dardar Rooftop Restaurant which offers unrivaled views of the Koutoubia Mosque and medina.
In the afternoon, visit the city’s iconic square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, where you can witness snake charmers, street performers, and indulge in Moroccan street food. Your guide will take you through the many of alleyways of the old medina decorated by hundreds of souvenir bazars and handicraft workshops that display a colorful contrast between traditional wear, authentic Moroccan sensory experience. Dinner will be at your leisure this evening. Overnight at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marrakech Carre Eden.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Radisson Blu Marrakech Carre Eden Hotel, Marrakech, 5*
Day 12 - Tuesday, May 6, 2025 / May 20, 2025
After breakfast at your hotel, you will take your turn at learning how to cook Moroccan cuisine. You will travel outside of the city to Kitchen Garden for a cooking class with Chef Tarik—a captivating journey into the heart of Moroccan cuisine. Held in the enchanting backdrop of Marrakech, this class combines the essence of Moroccan culture with the art of cooking.
Chef Tarik will introduce you to the vibrant world of Moroccan spices and ingredients, many of which are sourced locally from the bustling markets of Marrakech. The class itself is a hands-on experience, where you'll learn to prepare iconic Moroccan dishes like tagine, couscous, and pastilla. Chef Tarik's expertise shines as he guides you through the intricacies of Moroccan cooking techniques, such as slow cooking in clay tagines and creating the perfect blend of spices.
Finally, you'll sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor, savoring the rich flavors and spices of Morocco. It's an authentic culinary adventure that not only teaches you to cook Moroccan cuisine, but also immerses you in the country's vibrant traditions and flavors.
After your delicious lunch, you will be off on an unforgettable Atlas Mountains excursion known to be the best way to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the wild nature. Taste an authentic Moroccan Mint Tea paired with Moroccan Pancakes with the local inhabitants of the Berber villages to explore their culture and lifestyle. Overnight at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marrakech Carre Eden.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Radisson Blu Marrakech Carre Eden Hotel, Marrakech, 5*
Day 13 - Wednesday, May 7, 2025 / May 21, 2025
For today’s program after breakfast, you will immerse yourself even more in Moroccan culture through two craftsmanship workshops. Starting with carpet weaving, you will learn about the specific technical and aesthetic Moroccan carpets according to the different regions. A part of the workshop is also devoted to the wool (the essential raw material in the carpets manufacturing), and to its fascinating preparation works (cleaning, spinning, tint).
After becoming experts on Moroccan carpet weaving, you’ll move to another organic workshop where you’ll be learning about and making Argan oil. Morocco is the only country with abundance of Argan trees growing in the western side of the Atlas Mountains. During this workshop, you’ll discover the myriad of uses and health benefits of Argan oil, as well as learning the history of the craftsmanship and the effects on the rural communities. Finally, you’ll get a chance to make the Argan oil yourself, providing you with a personal glimpse into the process.
You’ll have some free time to get lunch at a restaurant of your choice, and later you can choose to indulge in a traditional hammam to recover from the long-distance road trips. You can also opt to spend your free time shopping or participating in other leisure activities of your preference.
Tonight, you will go out one last time with your new Olivia friends to Palais Dar Soukkar, for a spectacular show and farewell dinner. Overnight at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marrakech Carre Eden.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel: Radisson Blu Marrakech Carre Eden Hotel, Marrakech, 5*
Day 14 - Thursday, May 8, 2025 / May 22, 2025
After a restful sleep, you will pack your bags in preparation for your flight home. May the memories of this once-in-a-lifetime trip fill your soul for years to come!
Meals: Breakfast
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• Accommodations for 14 days/13 nights in the finest hotels and tent camp
• Airport group arrival transfer to hotel on program start date, and group departure transfer to airport from hotel on program end date
• Fast Track Arrival Meet & Assist upon arrival to Casablanca Airport:
- Meet & Greet when exiting the plane
- Accelerated immigration & customs
- Support with luggage collection
- Porter Service
- Escort to driver and group transfer vehicle
• Meals as outlined in itinerary:
- Meals include ½ bottle of mineral water, soda, and coffee or tea
- Welcome & Farewell Dinners include the above and ½ bottle of wine
• Activities as outlined in itinerary:
- Welcome dinner at Rick’s Café in Casablanca
- Visit the Talassemtane Women’s Cooperative in Chefchaouen
- Winery visit with tasting and lunch in Meknes
- Lunch with a local family in Fez
- Sunset or Sunrise Camel ride
- 4WD through the Black Desert and into Fossil Mountains
- Tea break with a nomadic family
- Musical performance by Khamliya group
- Dinner hosted by Khamliya group
- Henna tattoo by local Berber woman
- Traditional pottery workshop demonstration
- Cooking class with Chef Tarik with visit of his mini farm
- 4WD tour into the Atlas Mountains and tea break with a local Berber family
- Carpet weaving workshop & making your own Argan oil
- Farwell dinner and show at Palais Dar Soukkar
• Monument and attraction entrance fees
• English speaking guide
• Headsets during tours
• Transportation in a 48-passenger coach supplied with mineral water
• All porterage throughout
• All gratuities, including the for the guide, driver, restaurant staff and luggage handlers at hotels
• Olivia representative to accompany the group
• International flights from home to Casablanca and from Marrakech to home
• Alcoholic beverages except where indicated
• Beverages outside of meals
• Optional excursions in Merzouga
• Optional traditional hammam experience in Marrakech
• Spa, laundry services, travel insurance, and other incidentals
Barcelo Anfa Casablanca Hotel, Casablanca
Barceló Anfa Casablanca is located in the very heart of Casablanca - the economic hub of Morocco. Its Art Deco design is reflected in colours, geometric shapes and warm materials. The hotel is perfectly aligned with the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the region and is an ideal location for business travellers.
The hotel is fully equipped with a fitness studio, spa, lobby bar, snack bar and a restaurant that offers local produce combined with the newest culinary trends. Moreover, the hotel has 206 rooms which, under the concept B-Room, provides comfortable and modern amenities, ensuring Barceló Hotel Group's quality and excellence standards.
This state-of-the-art hotel also has easy access to a magnificent terrace and outdoor swimming pool with a depth of 1.15m. Its 7 meeting rooms and banquet room, with capacity for up to 350 people, as well as its magnificent location in the financial district of this multicultural metropolis, make it the perfect hotel for hosting all types of events.
The hotel, located in the middle of the Jewish district, is just 30.8km from the Mohammed V International Airportand is close to the city’s biggest attractions: shopping areas, Hassan II Mosque, Old Medina, Beth-El Synagogue and Sacred Heart Cathedral.
Fairmont Residences La Marina Hotel, Rabat
Edging the Bouregreg River and encircled by landscaped water gardens, Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé Hotel & Residences is the pick of top hotels in Rabat, Morocco. Effortlessly fusing the charm of old Morocco with contemporary comfort, it offers 274 exquisite guest rooms, suites and long-stay residences, exceptional restaurants and one of the best spas in Rabat. Serene hideaway is just 20 minutes from Rabat-Salé Airport, while the fascinating Medina and stately Mausoleum of Mohammed V are less than 10 minutes away for leisurely sightseeing.
In addition to an ultra-modern fitness center, a glamorous rooftop bar with Bouregreg River views and all manner of carefully curated recommended activities, our luxury hotel in Rabat, Morocco, boasts a suite of technically advanced, flexible meeting venues and a sophisticated ballroom for impressive weddings and celebrations. Dedicated to welcoming guests with our incomparable Fairmont levels of service, we are on hand to make you feel instantly at home. At Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé, every moment of your stay will be unforgettable.
Fairmont Tazi Palace Hotel, Tangier
Secluded high on the hills above the medina,Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier mirrors the city’s seductive charm and is one of the finest 5-star hotels in Morocco.
Here, graceful luxury is complemented by incomparable views and historic features meticulously restored to their original 1920s glory. Seven vibrant restaurants and bars, a spectacular spa and outdoor pool, curated local experiences and activities...
Whether you start the day with sunrise yoga on the rooftop terrace or let the evening draw to a close in the shade of ancient eucalyptus trees, your most magical Moroccan memories start at our luxury hotel in Tangier.
Tangier is Morocco at its most timeless. A city of elegant Andalusian-Arabic architecture and tangled souks, of literary legends and bohemian artists, it is as enchanting as it is compelling – a cultural gateway and master of reinvention, casting an irresistible spell on travelers while cultivating a style all its own.
Lina Ryad & Spa, Chefchaouen
Lina Ryad & Spa is located in the heart of Chefchaouen and offers a rooftop terrace with a view on the Medina. The on-site spa center features an indoor pool, a hammam and a hot tub.
With views of the mountains or Medina, the air-conditioned suites at Lina Ryad & Spa are elegantly decorated and include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and a seating area. They each have a private bathroom with a bath or shower and free toiletries.
Traditional Moroccan cuisine can be served in the dining area upon request and a continental breakfast is prepared daily. Guests are invited to relax on the patio or in one of the 3 lounge areas.
The host can also help organize excursions, city visits and on-site massages. The property is a 1-hour drive from Oued Laou and Tétouan and 16 mi from Bab Taza.
Sahrai Hotel, Fez
The five-star Hotel Sahrai, designed by the architect and designer Christophe Pillet, enjoys spectacular views of the largest medina in the Arab world, taking in twelve centuries of the city’s history in one fell swoop.
Fifty spacious rooms along with the comfort of two restaurants, a rooftop with a bar opening onto the panoramic terrace, and an exclusive Givenchy spa, combined with a traditional hammam and a gym with Technogym equipment.
Offering an outdoor pool, a garden, a spa and wellness center, Hotel Sahrai is located in Fès, a 10-minute drive from the old Medina. Free Wi-Fi access is available in all areas.
All large units will provide guests with air conditioning and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Some suites offer a terrace and include a seating area. Private bathrooms also come with a bath.
Climate
The climate in Morocco at the beginning of May varies depending on the location. In Casablanca, Rabat and Fez the average daytime temperatures range from 83°–90°F and 41°–45°F in the evening. In the Sahara Desert, Ouarzazate and Marrakech the average daytime temperatures range from 94°–100°F and 45°–50°F in the evening. This time of year, the average rainfall is at approximately .25 inches for the month.
Currency
The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham.
Languages
The official language in Morocco is Classical Arabic (Standard Arabic), Amazigh language (Berber language) is still spoken, but it’s mainly between Berbers only. French is also used in Morocco by more than a third of the population and English is widely spoken in tourist cities. Spanish is a popular language in the north side of the country.
Activity Level
This trip does require a certain level of mobility, including longer walks through monuments, stairs, and some uphill & downhill, walking over uneven ground including sand, and the ability to get in and out of 4WD vehicles. We regret that wheelchairs, walkers, and scooters cannot be accommodated on this trip. All guests must be ambulatory and able to walk up and down stairs, walk long distances from ¼ mile and up to 1 mile without assistance. If you do have limited mobility that requires assistance, you are required to travel with someone who can assist you. Please contact us with any questions.
Health & Safety
Currently, no proof of a COVID-19 vaccination is required to enter Morocco. We will keep you updated with any Health & Safety COVID protocols as we get closer to the trip date.
Passport and Visa
All guests (including guests from countries other than the United States) will be required to have a passport. Passports must be valid for six months after your return date. All visitors are required to have a minimum of two blank pages in their passport to allow for an entry stamp. If there is insufficient space in the passport, entry into the country will be denied.
US citizens do not need a visa for this trip. If you are not a US citizen, please check visa requirements with your country’s consulate and the consulates of the countries you’ll be visiting.
Travel Insurance
We recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your trip investment against the unexpected.
Airport
You will need to fly into the Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), and out of the Marrakesh Menara International Airport (RAK). We encourage all guests to arrive a day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.
Flight arrival and departure times
Please plan to arrive in Casablanca by 4 pm on Friday, to attend the Welcome Dinner this evening. Departures from the Marrakesh Menara International Airport (RAK) on Thursday, can be at any time.
Vacation Stretchers
An optional pre-trip hotel package will be offered. More information will be available approximately 11 months prior to the trip.
Luggage allowances
Airlines often restrict (or charge) for excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances.
Transfer and Meeting up with Olivia
You will be provided with a Fast Track Meet & Greet Assist Service upon your arrival in Casablanca. With this service, you will be met at your gate by a dedicated representative that will escort and assist you through an accelerated immigration and customs process and then into the baggage claim. Your luggage will be handled by porters that will take your luggage to your group transfer vehicle. You will be transferred from the airport to the hotel, where you are pre-registered for check-in.
Transfers to the airport
After the trip, you will be transferred from your hotel to the airport in time for your flight home. The Marrakech airport is approximately 20-30 minutes from your hotel and your group transfer time will be determined based on your flight departure time. Please note that the pickup time at the hotel will be a minimum of 3 hours prior to your flight departure time.
Electricity
The standard voltage is 220 V in Morocco. The power plug sockets are type E, known as a standard “Euro” plug, and type E with is most common in France. Please see the examples below. As outlets sometimes vary, if you plan to operate electric appliances, we suggest you travel with a set of international adapter plugs as well as a voltage converter. Most camera batteries, cell phones and computer chargers have the 110/220-V converters built in, but double check this. With the proper adapters, you can easily re-charge your batteries at all the accommodations, including the tents.
Excursions
While we are staying at the Sandy Tents in Erg Chebbi, there will be some optional excursions that you may choose to do such as sandboarding, quad biking, or yoga. There will also be an optional traditional Hammam experience in Marrakech. These may be booked at an additional cost.
Gratuities
Gratuities, including to your hotel staff (except for room service and laundry delivery), porter, driver/guide, and restaurant staff are included. If you received exceptional service from someone, you are welcome to give an additional gratuity. If you book an optional excursion, it is appropriate to tip your guide.
Internet, Email, and Fax
Complimentary wifi is available at all of the hotels.
Laundry and dry cleaning
Laundry, pressing, and dry-cleaning services are available at the hotels for an extra charge. Pricing is available at each hotel and may vary depending on the hotel.
Medical services
Should you require medical assistance, medical and health facilities are widely available in all of the major cities you are traveling through. If medical assistance is needed while you are in a more rural area such in the desert in the Sandy Tents in Erg Chebbi, there are pharmacies that can assist with treatment. Medical treatment is available for a fee.
Phone
We suggest you check with your carrier about cell phone service in Morocco. Complete information about emergency contact information will be available in your final documents, which will be emailed to you 3-4 weeks in advance of the trip.
Smoking policy
Please refrain from smoking in enclosed places where it may affect others.
Special Needs
If you have special medical or dietary needs, please advise us at the time of booking.
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