Wondrous Escape into the Heart of the Maghreb October 4 19, 2019 Slumber in the Desert Hospitality, Moroccan Tea Culture, Souks of Fez Sights, Sounds, Smells Chefchaouen, Blue Village Discoveries, Aït Benhaddou Few places on earth capture your senses as well as Morocco Chefchaouen Known as the Blue Pearl of Morocco, this ancient Moorish/Jewish village is nestled in the Rif Mountains and is awash in blue. Desert Slumber Lounging comfortably by your bivouac with a lingering of your Berber dinner on your mind, behold the stunning night sky in the desert. Marrakesh Bustles with its own rhythm of life, colour, and aura of ancient mystery. Souks of Fez The eldest of Moroccan imperial cities and cradle of a millennial monarchy, brims with life, from its medieval charm to the edges of the Medina. Culture & Cuisine Immerse yourself in local culture and landscapes while retaining the comforts you desire; savour local specialities for a delicate mix of local and familiar. Why do we encourage you to reserve now? As guests introduce their friends to us often and more guests return every year, our journeys fill very quickly. Reserve Early and Save up to 5%. Ends February 28, 2019 Be the first to know! Join our private email newsletter today! Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 1 of 10
Your 16-Day Journey Day 1 Depart for Casablanca, Morocco Enjoy your private car home pick up service. Guests departing from the Toronto airport are assisted with their check-in. Meet your Journey Manager and fellow guests, and board your flights to Casablanca, Morocco. Our Journey Manager travels with you to take care of all the details throughout the journey, enabling you to concentrate on your experience. Overnight flight Day 2 Casablanca On arrival in Casablanca, we meet our friendly local guide. Following a morning drive around the coastal city, we visit the Hassan II Mosque, whose minaret soars 175 m above the city. After a light lunch, a scenic drive takes us to Rabat, where we enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Enjoy dinner at our hotel and meet fellow travellers. (L,D) Overnight Rabat, Tour Hassan, 2 nights Day 3 Rabat The Fortified Place, the literal meaning of Rabat is the capital City of Morocco, located on the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of the Bou Regreg river. Its wide boulevards are filled with out of the ordinary historical monuments, some dating back as far as the 7 th century. Today we explore the administrative capital of Rabat and witness the splendid Mohammed V mausoleum, the Hassan Tower and the Kasbah of the Udayas. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon of free time before joining us for dinner at a local restaurant. Day 4 Charming Chefchaouen We head north towards the famous blue and white town of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif mountains. Originally built as a fortress in the 15th century, the mountains towering over Chefchaouen resemble a pair of goat s horns, and, perhaps not coincidentally, the creamy native goat cheese is one of the most popular regional treats. Architecture enthusiasts will marvel at the Jewishinspired blue-tinted buildings, octagonal mosque and Spanish ruins. Explore the medina and the winding alleys of this charming village, reminiscent of the Andalusian pueblos blancos. After lunch, we visit the Ras el Maa, which supplies the city with drinking water. This evening dinner at our hotel. Overnight Chefchaouen, Dar Echchaouen, 1, night Day 5 Fez Today we make our way to the imperial walled city of Fez, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will transport you back to medieval times. We have a panoramic tour before lunch on our hotel terrace with stunning city views. Then enjoy free time to wander this lively city or relax by the hotel pool. In the evening, dinner is served at a former Moorish palace. Overnight Fez, Hotel Sahrai, 3 nights Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 2 of 10
Day 6 Fez, Imperial City An exhilarating day in the religious capital of Morocco awaits. Cradle of a thousand-year-old monarchy, Fez shares her memories of 12 centuries of history and shows us the refinement of Hispano-Moorish culture. After a visit of the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, we continue to the Bou Inania Madrasa, the Nejjarine fountain and the Nejjarine wood museum, while seeing the exteriors of the Royal Palace and the Bab Bou Jeloud gate. Following a visit to a tannery in the heart of the bustling souk, we enjoy lunch at the beautiful Palace restaurant. We continue our exploration with a visit to the pottery district to discover the art of Moroccan ceramics and tile-work. Dinner is at our hotel (B,D) Day 7 Moulay Idriss, Volubilis This morning, we explore the holy town of Moulay Idriss. Spread over two hills at the base of Mount Zerhoun, it holds a special place in the hearts of the Moroccan people. A new dynasty began here with Moulay Idriss bringing the religion of Islam and starting the construction of this marvelous city. At the archaeological site of Volubilis, our guided tour exhibits the partly excavated Roman city commonly considered the ancient capital of the Roman-Berber kingdom of Mauretania. Savour lunch in Meknes, followed by a visit to the old imperial capital. Enjoy the famous Bab Mansour Gate, the royal stables, the Jewish quarter, and vast El Hedim Square. Return to Fez later this afternoon. Day 8 Ifrane, Midelt, Erfoud Today we take an idyllic route to the Sahara Desert. Along the way, admire the parade of mountains, valleys, forests, and desert. We stop in the city of Ifrane which unlike any other town in Morocco. Located at an altitude of 5,460 feet above sea level in the Middle Atlas region, this small hill town has a Swiss alpine feel to it. With neat red-roofed houses, blooming flower beds, lake-studded parks and snowbound winters, this remarkable European styled town is often referred to as Morocco s Switzerland. Next, we visit Azrou, which translates literally to rock in the local Amazigh language, is named for the large, black volcanic outcrop in the center of town. Lunch is near the town of Medelt in the plains of the Middle Atlas. Our drive continues to Erfoud for a relaxing evening and dinner in our hotel. Overnight Erfoud, Kasbah Hôtel Xaluca Arfoud, 1 night Day 9 Merzouga Merzouga lies on the edge of Erg Chebbi, a monumental series of sand dunes that reach heights of 160 metres, larger than many of the skyscrapers. It s an amazing sight, especially as the dunes change colour in the setting sun from shades of gold to orange, pink and purple. Our desert adventure begins with our 4x4 climbing to the top of a hill for spectacular views of the rolling sand dunes. We explore a nearby fossil mine and share in a tea ceremony with a local nomad family. We continue into the dunes to an oasis for a picnic lunch. After settling into our luxury tented camp, we set off on a camel ride to bask in the golden sunset over the dunes. We return to the camp to enjoy a Berber feast and entertainment under the star-filled sky! Overnight in a Desert Luxury Camp, 1 night Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 3 of 10
Day 10 Boumalne Dades & Ouarzazate We depart for Todra Gorge, situated on the east side of the High Atlas Mountains, the Todra Gorge is recognized around the world as one of the most spectacular canyons, a 300 m deep fault of limestone that offers just enough space for a crystal-clear river and a small path for travellers. After lunch, we head towards Boumalne Dades along the Route of 1,000 Kasbahs, famous for its beautiful and charming landscapes, as well as its idyllic gorges. Our senses then come alive as we visit the Valley of Roses, home to Morocco s largest rose water and rose oil manufactures. In the evening, we arrive in Ouarzazate and enjoy dinner at our hotel. Overnight Ouarzazate, Berber Palace, 1 night Day 11 Ouarzazate, Aït Benhaddou & Marrakesh Ouarzazate has stood at the edge of the Sahara Desert for hundreds of years. A city of palm trees, sandy streets and blocky, fort-like buildings, this is the Morocco seen in a hundred movies. The name Ouarzazate comes from the Amazigh for quiet place After a visit of Ouarzazate film studios, we head to the ancient fortified village of Aït Ben Haddou. As this fortified city full of towering kasbahs and crumbling walls took beatings from the brutal rains, its citizens defected into more modern digs on the other side of the Ounila River, except for a stubborn few that remain in the formerly majestic ksar. While in the 1940s, more than 90 families were living in the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, only five families stayed and are still living inside the fortress. There, we visit its famous Kasbah and learn about the ancient earthen clay architecture. We enjoy a BBQ lunch before travelling along the famous camel caravan route and over Morocco s highest mountain pass to Marrakesh. We settle into our riad in the heart of the city for a relaxing dinner and evening. Overnight Marrakesh, Jardin de la Koutoubia, 2 nights Day 12 Marrakesh Originating from the Amazigh (Berber) words, amur kush, Marrakesh means Land of God. One of the Imperial cities of Morocco, its location and contrasting landscape make it an enviable destination in Morocco. Our exploration is vast and includes a visit of the Menara Garden, one of the oldest gardens in Marrakesh with an immense olive grove dotted with palm and cypress trees, the Gardens of Majorelle the Saadian Tombs where two hundred members of the Saadian dynasty are buried. Next, we visit the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), the Bahia Palace, one of Marrakech s most imposing buildings. A visit to Marrakesh would not be complete without a seeing to the famous Koutoubia Mosque. Following lunch, we explore the souks and the famous Jemaa el-fna Square. We end the day with dinner in the city. Day 13 Essaouira This morning we travel to Essaouira, known as Morocco s windy city. A combination of spectacular beaches, great sea and the almost constant tropical trade winds has changed this city from a hardworking port into one of the world s greatest sites for windsurfing, kiteboarding and other exhilarating watersports. The city has a dual heritage, and this can be seen in the mighty walls that surround this old Moroccan trade centre. Once a Portuguese fortress, rusting cannons between the ramparts still point out to sea, and there is a certain European feel to the construction of the city once known as Mogador. Following lunch and a wine tasting at a local vineyard we visit an Argan Oil Women s Cooperative before checking into our hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Dinner this evening is at our hotel. Overnight Essaouira, MGallery by Sofitel, 2 nights Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 4 of 10
Day 14 Essaouira A day dedicated to relaxation, exploration, or quiet time. This endearing seaside resort and fishing port extends on a narrow peninsula, ensuring rapturing views from all angles. Your lunch and afternoon are free. This evening, we dine in a lovely Caravane Café restaurant. (B,D) Day 15 Safi, El Jadida, Casablanca In Safi, discover this `non-tourist gem, nestled on the shores of the Atlantic. Safi has two beating hearts; one in the old town, lined with shops offering the beautiful blue Safi ceramics, all lying in the shadows of the gorgeous Portuguese Citadel, and the new, bustling with modern energy. In El Jadida, discover the famous Portuguese fortified city of Mazagan built at the start of the 16th century, the UNESCO-listed site is often considered to be one of the country s best examples of military design. This afternoon, we arrive in Casablanca with free time to relax at your leisure. Overnight Casablanca, Hyatt Regency, 1 night Day 16 Home Today, we bid wadaeaan to our new friends and make our way to the airport for our flights home. Guests arriving at the Toronto airport are greeted and assisted to their private car home. (B) All information contained in this itinerary is correct at time of printing and is subject to the terms and conditions as listed on our web site at www.jerryvandyke.com or available from our office on request. We must reserve the ability to make improvements. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 5 of 10
Early Reservation Bonus Save up to 5%* Ends February 28, 2019 Since we first started our company over 38 years ago, we have been rewarding our guests for reserving early. We call this our Early Reservation Bonus (ERB)! Reserving early avoids disappointment by ensuring first pick of dates, staterooms, and flight options as our journeys do fill up quickly. It also ensures you peace of mind since your fare will note increase*. ERB: Save 5% Reserve prior to the Early Reservation Bonus date and pay 95% of the published fare at time of your reservation by cheque or electronic bank transfer, and we will deduct the remaining 5% off your journey fare. ERB flex: Save 2% Reserve prior to the Early Reservation Bonus date and pay 98% of the published fate at the time of your reservation by Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, and we will deduct the remaining 2% off your journey fare. Should you not take advantage of the Early Reservation Bonus and decide to pay by cheque or electronic bank transfer at time of final payment, we will deduct $200 off your journey fare. Early Reservation Bonus ends February 28, 2019 *All journeys are subject to supplier fuel surcharges and new/increased government fess/taxes, should they arise. Please note: A deposit cheque and a post-dated final payment cheque are not considered payment in full. Final payment date is 120 days (or more, depending on journey) prior to departure. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer, unless noted otherwise. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 6 of 10
Your Journey Includes Outstanding Accommodation Tour Hassan, Rabat, 2 nights Dar Echchaouen, Chefchaouen, 1 night Hotel Sahrai, Fez, 3 nights Kasbah Hôtel Xaluca Arfoud, Erfoud, 1 night Desert Luxury Camp, Merzouga, 1 night Berber Palace, Ouarzazate, 1 night Jardin de la Koutoubia, Marrakech, 2 nights MGallery by Sofitel, Essaouira, 2 nights Air Travel International flights in economy with Air Canada Toronto to Casablanca Casablanca to Toronto Guests join us from across Canada. Contact our office for additional air gateways. Discover, Learn, Explore on Included Experiences Exploring Casablanca with Welcome Lunch Village of Boumalne Dades Rabat Archaeological Masterpiece Ouarzazate Impressive Valley of Roses Chefchauoen Blue & White Village Aït Benhaddou Ras el Maa, Lunch at Bouzaafer Mosque Tizi n Tichka Highest Mountain Pass in Fez 2,000 year old Imperial City Morocco Holy Town of Moulay Idriss Magnificent Marrakech Archaeological Site of Volubilis Phoenician Trading Post, Mogador Midelt, Merzouga, & Bivouacs in the Desert Two Beating Hearts of Safi Camels to the Dunes at sunset Portuguese Fortified City of Mazagan Todra Gorge Necessities Know your total journey cost before you leave home! All taxes incl. HST, PST, VAT Services of a professional Journey Manager Private car home pick up & return service throughout the journey (where available), or a credit or hotel overnight Services of local guides & coach drivers, All fees, port & service charges for the local perspective Gratuities on all included items: Journey Complete pre-trip information & assistance Managers, local sightseeing guides, coach Most meals included: drivers, porters, etc. 14 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 14 dinners Branded overnight carry-on bag or backpack All sightseeing & entrance fees as listed Porterage for one piece of baggage Journey Fares from Toronto Canadian dollars per guest Twin/Double Single $7,450 $9,150 Fuel surcharges These journey fares include the current known fuel surcharges. Additional supplier fuel surcharges may apply at final payment date. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 7 of 10
Outstanding Accommodation Moroccan Exploration Tour Hassan, Rabat A tribute to the splendour of Moorish architecture, which combines elegance and an atmosphere filled with unique majesty. Those who don t know may pass by without realization, but those who enter are transformed into another world of history, culture, and comfort. Dar Echchaouen, Chefchaouen A truly unique hotel which combines the charm of a traditional Medina guest house with the proximity of the mountains. Guest rooms boast all the modern comforts yet highlight a traditional character complemented by local Moroccan crafts. Hotel Sahrai, Fez With a name meaning magic and sublime hillside setting promising views of minarets and Medina Hotel Sahrai captivates from the moment you arrive. This airy retreat is a marvel of light and space, bringing together a modern look with a time-honoured feel. Inside and out you ll find traditional Moroccan features, from Taza stonework to Fassi ceramics alongside crisp interiors and designer furnishings. Kasbah Hôtel Xaluca Arfoud, Erfoud The Kasbah is listed as unique in Morocco due to its distinctive characteristics. It was built with adobes, the traditional Moroccan building bricks, and it is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the moment. Kasbah Hotel Xaluca Arfoud offers 137 spacious rooms decorated with regional materials and combines tradition with modern amenities, where installations are adapted to the stringiest standards. Dessert Luxury Camp A sea of soft, warm, apricot-toned sands the undulating landscape of the Erg Chebbi desert is one of Morocco's most enchanting natural wonders. For millenia, travelers have marveled its infinite stillness - a beauty beyond words. For the weary traveler seeking such restorative magic you will find your senses revived as you relax in an oasis of calm and serenity, taking time as you may to explore one of Earth's most spectacular natural landscapes. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 8 of 10
Berber Palace, Ouarzazate Built glamorously on a high perch in the style of a kasbah (fort) the Berber Palace combines facilities with high-quality service, plus plenty of authentic Berber materials, crafts and artefacts. The studios themselves are nearby, as is, just outside town, Kasbah de Taourirt one of the fairest forts of them all. Jardin de la Koutoubia, Marrakech The hotel is located on Mohamed V Boulevard, facing out onto the sea. Facilities Set on the coast, close to the medina, this charming luxury beach hotel is furnished with thuja and lemon wood cabinets and provides direct access to a luxury Thalasso therapy centre. The façade of the hotel is painted in the traditional red of Mogador. MGalley by Sofitel, Essaouira Inspired by the magnificent Moroccan riads, the Médina Essaouira Hotel Thalassa Sea and Spa by MGallery is decorated in the traditional red of Mogador. Close to the sea, the medina and the port, this luxury 5-star hotel blends modernity with Moroccan style for a sophisticated stay. Ideal for exploring typical Essaouira areas and monuments. With the spa and thalassotherapy center, restaurants and bars, pool and beach, each area offers a unique experience. Hyatt Regency, Casablanca Designed for both business and leisure travel, Hyatt Regency Casablanca is ideally situated in Fonciere; one of the city's most popular locales. From here, guests can enjoy easy access to all that the lively city has to offer. A haven of rest and relaxation, the hotel will offer total renewal just steps away from the city's numerous attractions such as Place des Nations Unies, Olive Branch Tours, La galerie de l'aimance. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 9 of 10
Personal Notes & Questions Moroccan Exploration Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 10 of 10