Magical Marrakech Overnight (Double)
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Port
Casablanca, Morocco
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All,68
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$1300
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
2 Days / 1 Night
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Meals Included
Meals included
Day 1 (L/D) Casablanca - Marrakech
Leave the ship and begin the approximately 3½-hour panoramic drive to Marrakech.
Approaching Marrakech, you'll glimpse the reddish-brown ramparts that encircle a large part of the city — one of its premier sights. Enter through one of the imposing gates and discover the Pink City, with lunch at a traditional Moroccan restaurant at the heart of the medina.
In the afternoon, a guided tour takes you to one of the most impressive buildings in Marrakech — the Dar el Bacha Museum in the center of the Old Town. The museum is one of the most beautiful palaces in the Ocher City. Established in the early 20th century, Dar el Bacha was the residence of Thami El Glaoui — the man appointed Pasha of Marrakech in 1912.
Next, your guide leads you on a stroll through the medina (Old Town). Its narrow alleys are filled with the aroma of exotic spices and an endless variety of shops, selling everything from carpets to old books and antiques.
At the heart of Marrakech is the famous Djemaa el Fna Square, whose fame is based on its charm rather than its beauty. Something is always happening here — there is an almost tangible atmosphere. It is where people meet in the daytime, but the square really comes to life in the evening when musicians, acrobats, snake charmers, vendors, and storytellers entertain an appreciative audience. Spend some time at leisure here.
Check in at the hotel and freshen up. Then, transfer to an authentic restaurant for a Moroccan dinner. Overnight in Marrakech.
Hotel: Le Naoura Barriere (or similar)
Day 2 (B/L) Marrakech - Agadir
Check out of the hotel after breakfast and set out for a ride in a horse-drawn carriage. You'll travel alongside the magnificent ramparts of the city.
You're headed to the Majorelle Garden. Lovely, shaded grounds, graced by exotic trees and plants, make the Majorelle Garden a favorite destination for visitors and locals alike. The gardens were once the home and haven of the garden's namesake — French painter Jacques Majorelle, who was born in 1886 and settled in Marrakech in 1924. Here, he created a serene retreat with a stunning home, a spacious work studio, and a vast garden in which he could indulge his botanical interests by growing plants and trees from around the world. The property was later sold to Yves Saint-Laurent, the famous couturier, and Pierre Berge.
Next, visit the Dar el Bahia Palace. Built by the Grand Vizier Ba Ahmed, this grand residence is a warren of close, intimate rooms, beautifully adorned with unique mosaics and ceiling decorations, and edged by small gardens and courtyards. Highlights include an introduction to the magnificent council chamber, the central, marble-paved courtyard, and the apartments of the Sultan's favorite concubine.
You will also admire cultural treasures such as the Koutoubia Mosque, which has dominated the Marrakech skyline for centuries. Indeed, it is the tallest in Marrakech. Completed in 1199, the building boasts a famous minaret that served as a model for the Giralda of Seville and the Hassan Tower of Rabat. Contemplate its decorative flourishes and interesting past before you enjoy lunch at Dar Rhizlane Restaurant.
All too soon, it's time to set off on the approximately four-hour drive by air-conditioned motorcoach to Agadir, where you will head to the pier and re-board the ship.
Cancellation Policy:
This excursion is non-refundable within 60 days of arrival at Casablanca. Any cancellations made after this deadline will be subject to full payment of the tour cost, including if you cancel your cruise within 60 days prior to arrival at Casablanca.
Notes:
Travel time to Marrakech is approximately 3½ hours and to Agadir is approximately four hours. Bring sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders, and midriffs must be covered. You must remove your shoes at one or more location(s). Do not photograph military personnel without their consent. Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. The tour is guided; an escort from the ship's staff may or may not also accompany the group. Tour operates subject to meeting a minimum number of participants. You must book this overland PRIOR to sailing; the cut-off date is 60 days before the ship's call at Casablanca. Accommodation is included (hotels are subject to change). Transfers (if any), transportation by air-conditioned coach, any flights and entrance fees indicated in the itinerary, an English-speaking guide (unless otherwise noted), water on the vehicle, and meals (as indicated) are also included. Gratuities and personal expenses are not included. Bring your passport with you on tour.
Important information regarding visa requirements: You must bring your passport with you on the tour. It is solely each participant's responsibility to obtain any necessary visas, tourist cards and vaccinations, if required, to participate in Overland Adventures and/or Overnights and to keep apprised of any policy changes. Visas may be required for any/all countries your tour departs from and travels through, and for the country where you will rejoin the ship. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of the cruise. Your travel agent can assist you with your visa needs. If you require further assistance, Holland America Line's preferred visa service is CIBTvisas. US and Canadian citizens can reach them by phone or email: US citizens: 866 788 1100 or email customerservice@cibtvisa.com. Canadian citizens: 866 935 8472 or email customerservice@cibtvisas.ca. CIBTvisas phone numbers and email addresses for Dutch, German, Australian, United Kingdom, Belgian, Singapore, Spanish, Swiss and French citizens can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions section of Holland America Line's website, in the Cruise Preparation area. Applications and additional information can be downloaded from the CIBTvisas website at https://CIBTvisas.com/hollandamerica. You must advise CIBTvisas of your Overland Adventures or Overnights, as the visa requirements for these vacation enhancements may vary from those required for your cruise.