Jewish Culture Morocco Tour 14D/13N

Overview

Embark on a profound 14-day journey that illuminates the deep and enduring legacy of Jewish culture in Morocco. This comprehensive tour is meticulously designed for those who wish to explore the ancient Mellahs (Jewish quarters), historic synagogues, sacred tombs, and vibrant communities that have shaped Moroccan identity. From the coastal metropolis of Casablanca to the spiritual heart of Fes and the vibrant energy of Marrakech, this itinerary offers a unique and moving exploration of Morocco's rich Jewish heritage.

Highlights

• Explore the historic Mellahs of Fes, Marrakech, and Meknes.
• Visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism in Casablanca.
• Discover ancient synagogues, including the Aben Danan in Fes and Beth-El in Casablanca.
• Pay respects at the tombs of venerated Rabbis.
• Journey through the Imperial Cities and into the breathtaking Sahara Desert.
• Enjoy a camel trek and a night under the stars in a desert camp.
• Gain deep insights from expert local guides specializing in Jewish history.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca Arrive at Mohammed V Airport in Casablanca. You will be met and transferred to your hotel. We will visit the Hassan II Mosque and the Beth-El Synagogue.

Day 2: Casablanca → Rabat → Chefchaouen Visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism in Casablanca. Travel to Rabat to visit the Kasbah of the Udayas and Hassan Tower. Continue to the blue city of Chefchaouen.

Day 3: Chefchaouen → Volubilis → Meknes Explore Chefchaouen's blue-washed streets. Then, visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Continue to Meknes to explore its historical Jewish quarter (Mellah) and the tomb of Rabbi David Ben-Imdan.

Day 4: Meknes → Fes Travel to Fes, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. Settle into your riad and prepare for an in-depth exploration.

Day 5: Fes Jewish Heritage Tour A full day dedicated to Fes's Jewish heritage. Visit the Mellah, the Aben Danan Synagogue, the Jewish cemetery with the tomb of Solica, and the old Jewish school.

Day 6: Fes → Ifrane → Midelt → Ziz Valley → Merzouga Travel south through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Ifrane and the cedar forests of Azrou, to reach the edge of the Sahara at Merzouga.

Day 7: Merzouga Desert Exploration & Camel Trek Explore the desert by 4x4, visit Khamlia village for Gnawa music. In the afternoon, ride a camel into the Erg Chebbi dunes to your desert camp for the night.

Day 8: Merzouga → Todra Gorges → Dades Valley After sunrise, we depart for the Dades Valley, stopping to walk through the magnificent Todra Gorge.

Day 9: Dades Valley → Ouarzazate Drive to Ouarzazate, the "Hollywood of Morocco," visiting the film studios and Kasbah Taourirt.

Day 10: Ouarzazate → Ait Benhaddou → Marrakech Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kasbah Ait Benhaddou. We then cross the High Atlas Mountains to arrive in Marrakech.

Day 11: Marrakech Jewish Heritage Tour A full-day tour of Marrakech’s Jewish heritage, including the Mellah, the Lazama Synagogue, and the Miara Cemetery.

Day 12: Marrakech City Exploration Explore other highlights of Marrakech, including the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square.

Day 13: Marrakech → Essaouira Travel to the coastal town of Essaouira, known for its historic Jewish quarter and synagogue of Rabbi Haim Pinto.

Day 14: Essaouira → Marrakech Airport for Departure Enjoy a final morning in Essaouira before being transferred to Marrakech-Menara Airport for your departure.

What's Included

• Private A/C vehicle transportation.
• Experienced English-speaking driver/guide specializing in Jewish history.
• 13 nights of accommodation.
• Daily breakfasts and dinners.
• Guided city tours focused on Jewish heritage.
• Camel trek in the Sahara.

What's Not Included

• Lunches and drinks.
• Flights.
• Entrance fees to monuments.
• Personal expenses and tips.