The Trail of 'The Marrakech Express' - Save up to £50 - 8 days from £1199

Accommodation

Train travel will be in first-class air-conditioned carriages, many of which have comfortable six-seater compartments (days 2, 4 and 5).

Casablanca - Novotel Casa Hotel (3-star) or similar
1 night

Fez - Ramada (4-star ) or similar
2 nights

Rabat - Mercure Sheherazate Hotel (4-star) or similar
1 night

Marrakech - Hotel Imperial Plaza (4-star) or similar
3 nights

All rooms feature private facilities, air-conditioning, telephone and TV. Hotel facilities include a restaurant and bar. Please note: Details of your confirmed hotels will be advised in your final documentation, which will arrive approximately two weeks before departure.

Itinerary

Day 1: UK/Casablanca

Your first stop is Casablanca where an overnight stay has been arranged.

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Casablanca

Feeling refreshed for the day ahead, your North African exploration starts with a sightseeing tour of Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, before boarding your train, taking the route of the Marrakech Express. You will pass the historical city of Rabat, capital city of Morocco, then encounter vibrant orange groves as you move inland. Twist and turn to the imperial city of Meknes before descending via horseshoe curves through the northern edge of Morocco’s main wine-producing area to Fez.

Meals: Breakfast / dinner

Day 3: Fez

The arid and scarcely inhabited territory that reaches beyond the medina of Fez tells a very different story to its bustling and cultural interior. Enter Fez and succumb to an intricate maze of streets, alleys, passages and stairways. Considered the oldest spiritual city in Morocco, it is as though the surrounding walls have protected it from a commercial invasion. The streets are lined with tiny stalls offering a mix of spices, pottery, brass and leather; unfamiliar smells swamp the atmosphere for a truly authentic experience.

As the day unfolds, watch the merchants trade at the souks and unravel the exciting past of Fez at the 9th century Karaouline University, you’ll then discover the Nejjarine Fountain, the Tanneries and the Royal Palace on an included tour.

Complete your day at an optional folklore show this evening. A magician, belly dancing and live Berber music has been arranged to entertain you.

Meals: Breakfast / dinner

Day 4: Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes

Leaving Fez behind, continue by coach as your journey adopts a new form in the shape of the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Around 2,000 years in age, gain an insight into this once ruling civilisation. From archaeological encounters to the hilltop setting of Moulay Idriss your journey continues to this holy sacred town littered with whitewashed walls and green roofs, enjoy some free time here.

Next stop is the imperial city of Meknes. Relive the dynasty of once-powerful King Moulay Ismail, a key figure in establishing Morocco’s independence from European rule. His legacy lives on through the elaborate palaces, mosques and gardens he instructed to be built many centuries ago. Soak up the city’s sights on a panoramic tour as you pass the monumental Khmiss Gate, the historic city walls and Jewish Quarter. You’ll have plenty to ponder over as you board the train to Rabat for an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast / dinner

Day 5: Rabat

Today you’ll visit the capital of Morocco, Rabat. Unlike traditional Fez, Rabat offers a contemporary aesthetic; maintained gardens, large white buildings and wide streets are commonplace here. Steeped in rich history nonetheless there are plenty of sights to discover. Or if you prefer, take this chance to purchase some souvenirs.

Your sightseeing tour guides take you to the unfinished Hassan Tower, the Medina, the Oudaias Kasbah and Mohammed V Mausoleum – burial place of the late Moroccan royal family.

You re-board the train this afternoon for Marrakech, arriving early this evening.

Meals: Breakfast / dinner

Day 6: Marrakech

Like all the imperials cities, Marrakech is deeply rooted in the Islamic faith; shifts in ruling power over the centuries have given this remote desert city a unique cultural identity. Sense the spirit of southern Spain as the ancient Almohads have left their Andalucian mark, whilst some districts still tell the story of French rule during the 20th century.

Known as the ‘Pearl of the South’, Marrakech enjoys a spectacular setting poised between the desert and towering peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. Connect with the city’s inhabitants past and present on your included city tour. You will encounter the bustling square, Djemma El Fna and the Bahia Palace and prison ruins before exploring the vibrant Jewish Quarter and rousing your senses at the spice markets. After dinner at the hotel you can enjoy an optional equestrian show at Chez Ali Fantasia.

Meals: Breakfast / dinner

Day 7: Ourika Valley

Spend today at leisure meandering around some of Marrakech’s iconic souks or the old medina, taking in the atmosphere and blending in with the locals. For total relaxation, why not try a Hamam massage or take a peaceful walk around the beautiful Majorelle Gardens or take a horse and carriage ride in Marrakech. Alternatively, join your Tour Manager as they head out of the city to the tranquil valley of Ourika (at extra cost), spread between the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. There will be other sightseeing opportunities available - your Tour Manager will be able to give you full details.

Meals: Breakfast / dinner

Day 8: Marrakech/UK

Your Moroccan adventure ends today as you return to the UK.

Meals: Breakfast