Donna Salerno Travel

Before setting out to explore Fez, gather in the hotel gardens for a lesson in baking traditional Moroccan bread, still an important practice shared by Moroccan families. Fez was once the capital of Morocco and is one of the largest medieval cities in the world; even today it remains the mystic heart of Morocco, its religious, artistic and intellectual center. The 9,000 narrow lanes and alleys that make up the city's old quarter hold a wealth of surprises, and your visit today includes the Nejjarine Fountain, palaces, mosques and madrasas (Islamic schools). Stop at the communal bakery to drop off the loaf you prepared this morning; it will be baked for you and served at lunch. In the evening, your family gathers at Riad Al Kantara for dinner and a series of fun and informal workshops on Moroccan arts and crafts, including dancing, calligraphy and the use of the henna plant.  Sofitel Fes Palais Jamaï B L D

This morning, visit the Roman city of Volubilis, which features stunning mosaics that are still intact after nearly 2,000 years; your guide explains what these mosaics depict and how they were made. Return to Fez for the night.
Sofitel Fes Palais Jamaï B L

This morning, board your flight from Fez to Essaouria, which transfers through Casablanca en route. Arrive this afternoon in Essaouira, a beautiful city on Morocco's western coast.  Sofitel Essaouira Medina & Spa B L D

Today is dedicated to relaxation and fun in Essaouira, an isolated coastal city swept by strong tradewinds that make it a premiere location for watersports. Take a surfing lesson from a local expert — kite and wind surfing are both very popular here — or simply ride a horse or camel along the endless beaches.  Sofitel Essaouira Medina & Spa B L D

Depart for Marrakech, arriving in time for lunch. This afternoon brings your introduction to this teeming city, with visits to the Saadian tombs, the Bahia Palace and the palace of Dar Si Said. As evening approaches, end your tour at Djemaa el-Fna, one of the liveliest public squares in the world, full of food stalls, dancers, vendors and storytellers.
Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial B L

Drive to the Atlas Mountains for a day of adventure in the Terres d'Amanar nature park. Glide above the treetops on a zipline; hike or mountain-bike the winding trails; or learn the ins and outs of Moroccan culture at a workshop on leather working, pottery, tea or cooking the perfect tagine (Moroccan stew). Learn about the art of falconry at a demonstration with an expert handler. Return to Marrakech in the afternoon.  Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial B L

Resume your discovery of Marrakech this morning, venturing inside the medina (the old walled section of town) to visit the Koutoubia Mosque and the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a former Islamic college. Stop at the souk (open-air market) to hunt for the perfect souvenir among the stalls; the vendors here are ready to bargain with you. After lunch, take a seat in a horse-drawn carriage for a ride through Marrakech's famous gardens. Stop at the Majorelle Gardens, a small estate created by the French painter Jacques Majorelle. Once the artist's studio, the estate's distinctive cobalt blue buildings now house a museum of Islamic art. We have arranged a special twist to the traditional garden visit: a treasure hunt in the Menara Gardens, where parents and children team up to follow the provided clues. Then, meet the children of Al Karam, a shelter for the poor and homeless young people of Marrakech. Tonight's farewell dinner takes place in a beautiful riad (a house with a courtyard), with a traditional Moroccan band providing music before dinner.

Al Karam: supports a home in Marrakech that houses street children in emergency situations and provides activities for children living on the street.  Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial B L D

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home.  B