Journey to Morocco
Prepared for: Women’s Group Trip
Clients of Summer Abourass
Trip Overview
Sept. 15 - 18 | Fez | Hotel Sahrai | 3 nights
Sept. 18 - 21 | Marrakech | Riad 72 | 3 nights
Sept. 21 - 23 | High Atlas Mountains | Olinto | 2 nights
Sept. 23 | Departure
Sept. 15 | Fez
Private Transfer
Arrival at Casablanca Airport. Meet your guide at the arrivals terminal for a private transfer into Casablanca, stopping to visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, before continuing on to Fez, a journey of around 3.5 hours.
Welcome to Fez
As the largest urban car-free UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fez preserves Morocco’s traditions like no other city. It is the spiritual heart not only of Morocco but of North Africa, drawing pilgrims from across the region, including sub-Saharan Africa, to honor its revered saints. The city is a living labyrinth of ancient streets, grand palaces, bustling souks, and artisans practicing centuries-old crafts. Fez is alive—a city that breathes culture and history every single day of the year. To visit Fez is to pay tribute to the founders of the country and experience Morocco’s spiritual essence.
Introductory Walking Tour
From Karawan Riad, set in the quieter Andalusian quarter of Fes el Bali, step into the living labyrinth of the medina with an unhurried walk toward the honeycomb alleys leading to the iconic Chouara Tannery, where centuries-old dye pits create a striking mosaic of color. From there, weave through artisan souks toward the revered Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and its adjoining university, absorbing the architectural details of carved cedar, zellige tile, and intricately worked plaster along the way. Continue walking through spice-scented lanes and metalworkers’ quarters until you reach the monumental blue-tiled arch of Bab Bou Jeloud, the ceremonial gateway to the old city, before looping back through quieter residential streets where daily life unfolds at a gentler rhythm.
Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
This is a beautifully restored 18th-century funduq (traditional caravanserai) in the heart of the old medina that celebrates Morocco’s rich woodworking heritage, showcasing centuries of masterful craftsmanship through an array of intricately carved doors, chests, everyday tools, prayer beads and musical instruments that reflect regional styles and techniques. Housed around a sunlit central courtyard with galleries on three floors, the museum itself is a work of art in cedar wood and stucco, and its rooftop terrace café offers stunning panoramic views over the labyrinthine medina — a serene complement to the tactile beauty of the exhibits.
Dinner Reservation at La Maison Bleue
7:00pm: Dinner reservation at La Maison Bleue. This is the quintessential Fez dining experience. You’ll want to come hungry and ready for a multiple course meal accompanied by live, gentle music of an Oud player. Your driver will take you back to your hotel after dinner. Please note, dinner is to be paid locally.
STAY: Hotel Sahrai | Five Twin Deluxe Rooms with View | Breakfast
Sept. 16 | Fez
Private Tour with Museum Visits
From the heart of the old medina, set out with your private guide and weave through the labyrinth of narrow alleyways that make Fez such a captivating city. You’ll stop at the Al-Attarine Madrasa, a jewel of Marinid architecture, before continuing to the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the world’s oldest continually operating university. Along the way, explore the vibrant Souk el Attarine and spice markets, admire the intricate woodwork at the Bou Inania Madrasa, and witness the age-old leather-dyeing traditions at the famous Chouara Tannery from a panoramic terrace (if you haven’t already visited it the day before). The walk offers an immersive glimpse into the daily rhythm of Fez, where centuries-old craftsmanship and history remain alive at every turn.
Lunch Reservation at Riad Jardin des Biehn
1:00pm: Enter the beautiful gardens of Riad Jardin des Biehn and enjoy lunch at Fez Café.
Zellij Workshop Visit
Step into a traditional Zellij workshop in Fez, where master artisans hand-cut intricate mosaic tiles using centuries-old techniques. Surrounded by the rhythmic chisel of hammer on clay, you’ll witness artistry passed down through generations.
Dinner Reservation at Riad Fes
7:00pm: Dinner at the Relais & Chateaux Riad Fes. Inspired by the grand tradition of the Disciples of Escoffier and French flavors, this menu reimagines Moroccan classics with a touch of elegance. Please note, dinner is to be paid locally.
STAY: Hotel Sahrai | Five Twin Deluxe Rooms with View | Breakfast
Sept. 17 | Fez
At Leisure in Fez
Enjoy the morning relaxing and exploring Fez at your own pace.
Shopping for Street Food & Crafts
With your expert guide, enjoy a private shopping tour of the Fez medina. On the way, stop by the pastry stalls to try some traditional Maaqouda, Chebbakiya and Briwates. You will be taken to different workshops and ateliers where the famous crafts of Morocco are made by hand. Explore the tanneries and the leather boutiques, stop by the brass workers as they bang away on embellished trays and pots, visit the wood artisans with the famous smell of tetraclinis wood.
Dinner in Fez
We’ll make a dinner reservation at a highly recommend restaurant this evening.
STAY: Hotel Sahrai | Five Twin Deluxe Rooms with View | Breakfast
Sept. 18 | Rabat & Marrakech
Private Transfer to Marrakech via Meknes & Rabat
Greeting by your host and private transfer to Marrakech via Meknes and Rabat. The route reaches Meknes, established as an imperial capital in 1672 under Sultan Moulay Ismail, where key sights include Bab Mansour (completed 1732) and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail (early 1700s).
Rabat Stopover
Continue to Rabat, founded in the 12th century by the Almohads and designated Morocco’s capital in 1912, notable landmarks include the Hassan Tower begun in 1195, the impressive Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Kasbah of the Oudayas dating to the 12th century.
Continue to Marrakech and arrive in the afternoon.
Welcome to Marrakech
"Marrakech is a city where the past and the future coexist in perfect harmony", said Tahir Shah, explorer and writer. This quote the essence of Marrakech, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern influences, creating a vibrant, dynamic atmosphere. I’ve fallen in love with this city, over and over again. Whether you choose to stay in the maze of the old medina for the full experience or just outside the old city walls, Marrakech will dazzle you.
1112 Tea House & Sunset Walk
Before reaching your hotel, go for a sunset walk to Jamaa El Fna Square. Start with Moroccan tea at 1112 Tea House and walking through the old medina to the famous square – a 1000-year old UNESCO site with everything from snake charmers and acrobats, magicians and storytellers, to food stalls and orange juice stands.
Check-in & Dinner at your hotel (to be paid locally).
STAY: Riad 72| 2 Classic Rooms, 2 Deluxe Rooms, 1 Deluxe Room Extra Large | Breakfast
Sept. 19 | Marrakech
Side-car Ride Through Marrakech
11:00am: Sidecars will be waiting for you at the entrance of your hotel. Start with the Palmeraie on the outskirts of Marrakech where desert meets palm groves. Then, drive through the old town of Marrakesh to see some of the major historical sites from the outside, that you cannot miss when visiting Marrakesh, including the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs and the Bahia palace. Whizz through the maze of vibrant souks in the heart of the old city.
Ben Youssef Madrasa
12:30pm: End at the Ben Youssef Madrasa where your guide will be waiting for you. Explore this 14th-century Islamic school, known for its stunning architecture, including intricate stucco work, cedar wood, and mosaics. The madrasa offers a window into Morocco’s educational and religious history.
Perhaps enjoy a recommended lunch at Le Jardin. Set within the lush gardens of the Royal Mansour and inspired by the rich Arab-Andalusian tradition, this open-air Asian restaurant offers a sensory dining experience like no other. Here, gourmet cuisine meets a fresh burst of flavor in an atmosphere that blends effortless chic with relaxed elegance.
STAY: Riad 72 | 2 Classic Rooms, 2 Deluxe Rooms, 1 Deluxe Room Extra Large | Breakfast
Sept. 20 | Marrakech
YSL Museum & Jardin Majorelle
10:15am: Greeting by your guide and private transfer to the YSL Museum.
10:30am: Booked ticket time for your tour of the YSL Museum. This is a striking tribute to the legendary designer's deep connection with Morocco. Designed by Studio KO, its terracotta brick façade evokes woven fabric, blending seamlessly with the city's earthy tones. Inside, visitors can explore over 4,000 m² of space housing Yves Saint Laurent's iconic creations, a research library, and a 140-seat auditorium.
Walk over to the Jardin Majorelle – a vibrant botanical garden in Marrakech, famed for its cobalt blue buildings and exotic plant collection. Once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, it offers a serene escape from the city's bustle.
Lunch Reservation at Le Petit Cornichon
1:30pm: Lunch reservation at Le Petit Cornichon, a delightful French restaurant in Gueliz.
Marrakech Medina: Le Jardin Secret & Shopping
Option to continue to the Jardin Secret with your guide – a beautifully restored 19th-century palace nestled in the heart of Marrakech's medina. Once a private residence, it now offers visitors a serene escape with its two distinct gardens: an Islamic garden reflecting traditional Moroccan design and a more exotic garden showcasing diverse plant species.
Shop in the medina on Rue Sidi Abdelaziz, starting with Mustapha Blaoui famous for his labyrinth of interior design gems. Then step into V. Barkowski next door for the best linen pieces in town. Next walk over to Laly Marrakech and Hanout Boutique. At the end of your shopping spree, private transfer back to your hotel.
Dinner: Dar Yacout
6:40pm: Private transfer to Dar Yacout for your dinner at 7:00pm. Experience ultimate Moroccan dining at Dar Yacout. The food is as magnificent and generous as the palace – a classic four-course feast – and is accompanied by the syncopated rhythms of gnaoua musicians and the lovely lilting sound of the oud. Please note, dinner is to be paid locally.
STAY: Riad 72| 2 Classic Rooms, 2 Deluxe Rooms, 1 Deluxe Room Extra Large | Breakfast
Sept. 21 | High Atlas Mountains
Transfer to the Atlas Mountains
12:00pm: Private transfer to the High Atlas Mountains (approx. 1.5 hours)
Olinto
1:30pm: Arrive at Olinto, a secluded luxury retreat nestled in the Ouirgane Valley in the heart of Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains. Surrounded by olive groves, lush gardens, and dramatic mountain scenery, this intimate hideaway offers a peaceful escape from the energy of Marrakech. The property features nine private pavilions, each designed with privacy and comfort in mind, with beautiful gardens or private pools overlooking the surrounding landscape.
Leisure
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon discovering the serenity of Olinto, whether relaxing by the pool with views towards the Atlas Mountains, wandering through the beautifully landscaped gardens, or unwinding with a traditional hammam treatment. In the evening, enjoy dinner (to be paid locally) overlooking the valley, where locally sourced ingredients and Moroccan flavors come together in a relaxed and refined setting.
STAY: Olinto | 3 Twin Pavilion with Private Garden, 1 Twin Pavilion with Private Pool, 1 Double Pavilion with Private Pool | Breakfast
Sept. 22 | High Atlas Mountains
Berber Village Trek
10:00am: Your driver will pick you up at Olinto and transfer you to Imlil where you’ll meet your guide at 10:30am. With this expert guide based in the High Atlas Mountains, visit a Berber village for lunch. Follow the road past the Kasbah up to the village of Imlil. Enjoy dazzling views as you traverse the Toubkal National Park, home to highest peak of North Africa. From here, take an off road track to the highest village in North Africa– Arm’ed (2000m). An excellent traditional Berber lunch will be served on the highest roof terrace of the village with stunning views down the mountain. This trip can be combined with a walking excursion with your private guide.
Berber Culture
This experience will introduce your to the ancient culture of the Berbers, the indigenous people of Morocco whose presence in this region of the world dates back to 2,500 BC and beyond. After the arrival of the Arabs in the 8th century, many Berber tribe secluded themselves to the peaks of the High Atlas Mountains for safety and cultural identity survival. In this region of Morocco, many of the Berbers barely speak Arabic and have their own customs.
After your hike, private transfer to Olinto.
Leisure
Return to Olinto for an afternoon at leisure. You can choose from a variety of local activities to enjoy on the property. Later, enjoy dinner at Olinto (to be paid locally).
STAY: Olinto| 3 Twin Pavilion with Private Garden, 1 Twin Pavilion with Private Pool, 1 Double Pavilion with Private Pool | Breakfast
Sept. 23 | Departure
Private Transfer to Marrakech Airport
After a delicious breakfast, private transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Pricing & inclusions
See our Booking Terms & Conditions here.
$6100 PER PERSON
Price based on ten adults in shared occupancy.
Accommodation: All properties and accommodations as listed in the itinerary in the respective categories outlined in detail above, based on double occupancy.
Transport: All private transfers with a personal driver for the entire trip.
Tours & Activities: All tours, activities and excursions with an expert English-speaking guide as listed in the itinerary, along with the required entrance fees associated with the tours.
Meals: All breakfasts and meals as indicated in the itinerary.
Other: City taxes associated with your accommodations. Restaurant reservations and coordination. 24-hour emergency contact and on-trip concierge.
Exclusions
Flights
Travel insurance
Tips
Your Travel Curator:
Sarah Casewit
I was born in Marrakech and raised between Fez and Rabat, educated in Moroccan schools and immersed in a fully local way of life. Arabic and French were my first languages, long before English, and they continue to shape how I listen, communicate, and connect with people and places.
Morocco is not simply where I come from, it is part of who I am. The scents of the medina, the unspoken rhythms of daily life, the generosity of families opening their homes, and landscapes unfolding from desert to sea are woven into my identity.
For over fifteen years, I have designed bespoke journeys across the world. And when I curate an experience in Morocco, I bring all of that global expertise home. Each itinerary is guided not only by professional precision, but by a lifetime of intimacy, cultural fluency, and deep personal ties. What I offer is not a trip, but an invitation, into a Morocco that is layered, soulful, and profoundly real.
