Culture and Music Tour of Morocco

Arrive at Casablanca airport, where the Sarah Tours staff will greet and introduce you to your small group of enthusiast travelers like yourself. After gathering, we will travel overland to Volubilis, a striking site visible for miles from the various bends in the approach road. This ethereal place was the central point of the introduction of Judaism by the Jewish traders, Christianity by the Romans, and Islam by the grandson of the prophet Mohamed, Moulay Idris Al Akbar, to the Berber natives of Morocco. A relaxing day at the peaceful hotel of Volubilis overlooking the valley and the ruins of this ancient sanctuary of great spiritual stature. Afternoon walks to the holy city of Moulay Idriss, the first Islamic city in Morocco and home of many Sufi orders that have been formed through the centuries. This is an essential introduction to a spiritual aspect of the Sufi Moroccan society. Explore the labyrinth of this medieval and venerated city in Morocco with your small group—a brief intro session and rhythm get-together after dinner. Sleep early on the first night.

A visit to Volubilis, the Roman capital of Northwestern Africa, in the morning with a meditation session in the ruins of this ancient site. Walk back to the hotel, hiking through the ancient olive tree grove that attracted Martin Scorsese, Orson Wells, and especially Fellini with his master production of "The Last Temptation of Christ." Lunch at the gardens of the hotel overlooking the legendary Roman ruins. An hour drumming workshop with an introduction to the local trance dancers and drummers of the Hmadsha Sufi Order, who are well respected throughout the Islamic world for their spiritual Praises and hunting Percussions. Feel free to dance and chant with our small circle of locals and music lovers.

**Highlights: **

H'madcha Sufi Music

Discover the Hmadcha Sufi Group of Zerhoune, a mystical brotherhood in Morocco known for its mesmerizing music, trance-inducing rituals, and spiritual teachings. Immerse yourself in their ancient traditions and experience the profound spirituality that has captivated generations of followers.

Moulay Idriss Zerhoune Mausoleum Welcome to the revered Moulay Idriss Al-Akbar Mausoleum, nestled in the heart of Morocco's spiritual town of Mount Zerhoune. This sacred site honors Moulay Idriss I, the founder of Morocco's first Islamic dynasty and a revered saint in Moroccan culture. Pilgrims and visitors alike flock to this tranquil sanctuary to pay homage to the saint's tomb, soak in the spiritual ambiance, and witness the rich heritage of Moroccan spirituality and reverence.

Volubilis Ruins Volubilis, located near Meknes in Morocco, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins. Once a thriving ancient city of the Roman Empire, Volubilis boasts impressive structures such as grand villas, intricate mosaics, and imposing arches. Visitors can wander through the ancient streets, marvel at the remains of public buildings like the Basilica and Capitol, and admire the intricate artwork depicting scenes from Roman mythology. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco's rich history and the legacy of Roman civilization in North Africa.

Travel to Fes. Check into the hotel for lunch— your afternoon is devoted to discovering the beauty of Fes with one of the best local guides. The historical tour begins at the Mellah (the Jewish quarter), which exhibits medieval Moorish architecture, the king's palace, and the Bat'ha Museum of Moroccan Arts. Then, the walking tour of the Medina, the fascinating walled city with its incredible maze of medieval twisting alleys, blind turns, mosques, shrines, fountains, workshops, and every conceivable kind of market. Stop at El Hajj Lebbar House for mint tea and an introduction to The Issawa spiritual music; dinner will be served in a typical Moroccan restaurant in the Medina, then return to the Moorish house for a complete Issawa Sufi order night of chanting and drumming.

Highlights:

Al Attarine Madrasa, a jewel of Moroccan architecture, blends Islamic artistry with scholarly heritage. Nestled in Fez's medina, it enchants visitors with intricate tilework, carved wood, and serene courtyards. This historic madrasa is a testament to Morocco's cultural richness.

Seffarine Square: A bustling hub in the heart of Fez's medina, resonating with the rhythmic clang of metalworkers crafting intricate copperware. Immerse yourself in the age-old tradition of Moroccan craftsmanship amidst the vibrant atmosphere of this lively marketplace.

Al Qarawiyyin Mosque: The Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, founded in 859 AD in Fez, Morocco, is one of the world's oldest universities and a center of Islamic scholarship. Its stunning architecture, intricate tilework, and peaceful courtyards reflect centuries of learning and spiritual devotion. Today, it remains a revered symbol of Morocco's rich cultural and intellectual heritage.

Issawa Sufi Music is a captivating expression of spiritual devotion and cultural heritage in Morocco. Originating from the Issawa Sufi brotherhood, this vibrant music combines rhythmic percussion, hypnotic chants, and intricate melodies to induce trance-like states and elevate the soul. With its roots deeply embedded in Moroccan mysticism, Issawa music continues to enchant audiences worldwide with its mesmerizing rhythms and profound spirituality.

In the morning, relax in your hotel and reflect on the music circle of the Issawa. We will take off to Zalagh Mountain for an open-air couscous lunch at the shrine. An introduction to Jajouka rhythm and customs will be reserved to accompany us while hiking up to the shrine of Sidi Ahmed Bernoussi Shrine—an afternoon excursion to Mt. Zallagh in the Riff Mountains. Our small group of music lovers will meet the mule caravan and explore the region, escorted by the Jajouka Musicians and dancers. A mint tea party with the sunset over Fes at a Berber compound. A retreat sanctuary for Sufis who come to retreat here from all parts of Morocco. Dinner and dancing in a Moroccan restaurant with Chaabi musicians back in Fez.

Highlights: Sidi Ahmed Bernoussi: Sidi Ahmed Bernoussi was a revered Moroccan Sufi saint known for his piety and wisdom. His mausoleum, located in Mount Zalagh near Fez, is a spiritual sanctuary where devotees gather to seek blessings and guidance. The site serves as a place of reflection and prayer, embodying the enduring legacy of Sufi teachings in Moroccan culture.

Jajouka Music: Jajouka music is a mesmerizing blend of ancient Berber, Sufi, and African rhythms, played by the Master Musicians of Jajouka. This hypnotic sound, characterized by drums, flutes, and chants, has enchanted listeners for centuries, embodying the spiritual and cultural heritage of Morocco.

The first hills you see of the Middle Atlas seem oddly un-Moroccan. Evergreen pines, tall cedar trees on the peaks, and poplars stand copiously on the foothills, laced with flowing streams. The road across is almost ceremonial. Azrou, the first real town of the Middle Atlas, stands at a significant junction of routes; it's an important market center and has long held a strategic role in controlling the Berbers of the mountains. The Middle Atlas ceases at Midelt, where suddenly, through the haze, the much greater peaks of the High Atlas appear, which formidably rise to over 12,000 feet behind the town to reach a massive range, the Dgebel Ayashi. The drama of this sight, tremendous in the apparent, calm noon, is the most compelling reason to stop over for lunch. Erfoud is one of the most pleasing southern routes: a dry, red belt of the desert, and then suddenly, a drop into the valley filled with date palm groves—dinner accommodations at Kasbah Asmaa Guest House.

Highlights:

**Ifrane: **

Ifrane, Morocco's "Little Switzerland," is a charming mountain town known for its alpine architecture, lush forests, and cool climate. Explore its serene lakes, hike scenic trails, and enjoy a peaceful retreat amidst the beauty of the Middle Atlas Mountains.

Azrou: Azrou, nestled in Morocco's Middle Atlas Mountains, is renowned for its cedar forests, home to Barbary macaques. Explore the bustling souk, admire traditional Berber crafts, and hike scenic trails in nearby Ifrane National Park. Rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, Azrou offers a tranquil escape in the heart of Morocco.

Ziz Valley: The Ziz Valley, a unique natural wonder, is nestled between Rich and Er-Rachidia in southeastern Morocco. Spanning over 150 kilometers, it's a tapestry of lush palm groves, towering cliffs, and the meandering Ziz River. The valley is a living testament to the traditional Berber way of life, with its charming villages and warm hospitality.

In the morning, I lecture with an ethnomusicologist on Berber tribal music. After lunch, visit the holy city of Rissani, then continue the quest to Erg Chebbi. An experience not to be missed is watching the sunset from the spectacular Merzouga dunes of the Sahara, which is so beautiful that no words can describe it—dinner with the Tuaregs and the Rokba Tagmount Dance. Enjoy a night jamming with local musicians over the dunes of Merzouga under the African Skies. The setting will be so natural beyond imagination. Authentically, enjoy it with your small group tour in Morocco.

Highlights

Rissani: Rissani, the gateway to the Sahara, is a historic desert town in southeastern Morocco. Explore its ancient ksars, vibrant souks, and the majestic ruins of Sijilmassa. Experience the rich cultural heritage of the region and embark on unforgettable desert adventures from this bustling oasis.

Sijilmassa Ruins: The Sijilmassa Ruins are remnants of a once-flourishing medieval city, located near Rissani in southeastern Morocco. These archaeological remains offer a glimpse into the former glory of Sijilmassa, a vital trading hub along the Trans-Saharan trade routes. Explore the ancient city walls, crumbling palaces, and historic landmarks, and immerse yourself in the history and mystery of this ancient civilization.

Merzouga Dunes: Merzouga Dunes, in southeastern Morocco, are renowned for their towering golden sands, forming the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Experience exhilarating camel treks, breathtaking sunsets, and nights under the stars in traditional Berber camps. It's a mesmerizing destination offering unforgettable desert adventures and unparalleled natural beauty.

Rokba Music: Rokba Music is a traditional form of Amazigh (Berber) music, originating from the Rokba region in southern Morocco. It features rhythmic drumming, vibrant vocals, and energetic dance, often performed during cultural celebrations and festivals. Rokba music reflects the rich heritage and cultural identity of the Amazigh people, captivating audiences with its lively rhythms and heartfelt melodies.

Today, we will be traveling west in the direction of Tinghir. Enjoy a fantastic day trekking the highest and narrowest gorges in the region, Todras, only 15 km from Tineghir. Traveling through the Dades valley in spring, you will find the bloom of thousands of Persian roses filling up the air with an ethereal aroma certainly from heaven - cultivated as hedgerows dividing the different plots. Thousands of Kasbahs scattered surreally as sandcastles standing erect in the shadow of time along the Dades River. Our small group of music lovers will enjoy Ahwash Megouna music and dance in a Berber home.

**Highlights: **

Ziz Valley: One of the Ziz Valley's most captivating aspects is its unique experiences, particularly during sunrise and sunset. The golden light that bathes the cliffs and palm trees creates an enchanting atmosphere. Whether on foot or by car, travelers can immerse themselves in the panoramic views, visit local markets, or savor a traditional Berber meal, making their journey unique and memorable.

Todra Gorges: Todra Valley, nestled in Morocco's High Atlas Mountains, enchants visitors with its towering cliffs, lush greenery, and the gentle flow of the Todgha River. Travelers can hike through the dramatic Todgha Gorge, with its sheer rock walls reaching 300 meters, or relax in the shade of palm trees lining the valley floor. It's a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering unforgettable experiences amidst breathtaking scenery.

Ahouach Megouna: Ahouach Megouna is a traditional Berber music and dance style originating from the Megouna region of Morocco. It features rhythmic drumming, accompanied by hand clapping and vocals, often performed during weddings, festivals, and other celebratory occasions. Ahouach Megouna reflects the cultural heritage and joyful spirit of the Berber people, captivating audiences with its lively rhythms and spirited performances.

An active day awaits you, hiking and trekking the trails of a thousand Kasbahs. Travel through El Kelaa De Mgouna and Boumalne, exploring the Dades Valley, and continue to Ouarzazate: one large Oasis intercepting the flow of ages between the Dades, the Draa valleys, and the Majestic High Atlas Mountains.

Highlights:

Kalaa Megouna: Kalaa Megouna, known as the "Valley of Roses," seduces American tourists with its fragrant rose fields and picturesque landscapes. Located in Morocco's Dadès Valley, it hosts an annual Rose Festival, celebrating the region's rose harvest. Visitors can explore rose distilleries, purchase exquisite rose products, and immerse themselves in the valley's beauty framed by the Atlas Mountains. It's a sensory delight and a cultural gem waiting to be discovered.

Boumalene Dades: Boumalene Dades, nestled in Morocco's breathtaking Dadès Valley, captivates American tourists with its stunning scenery of rugged canyons, lush oases, and ancient kasbahs. Visitors can hike through the dramatic Dades Gorges, explore traditional Berber villages, and savor the tranquility of the surrounding landscapes. With its rich history and natural beauty, Boumalene Dades offers an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.

Ouarzazate: Ouarzazate, Morocco, dubbed the "Hollywood of the Sahara," enthralls tourists with its cinematic landscapes, ancient kasbahs, and vibrant souks. Visit the iconic Pacha El Glaoui Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, explore Atlas Film Studios, and delve into Berber culture at Taourirt Kasbah. From desert excursions to historical wonders, Ouarzazate offers an unforgettable Moroccan experience.

Our group tour of music enthusiasts will proceed to Morocco, exploring today's highest pass in the Atlas Mountains. Depart to Marrakech via Taddart and Tizi-n-Tishka pass at an elevation of 11,000 ft. in an impressive site dividing these mountains in two distinct aspects: one side acts as a shield to protect the hinterland from the Sahara's harsh and dry expansion, the other side collects the moisture of the Gherbi winds from the Atlantic Ocean, soft and evergreen. So is the life of the Berber dwellers on your way, the legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah hiking up to its summit. Arrival in Marrakech, the "Morocco City," as the early travelers called it, has always been a pleasant city, a marketplace where the southern tribesmen and Berber villagers bring in their goods, spend their money, and find entertainment. For tourists, it's an enduring fantasy - a city of immense beauty, low, pink, and tent-like before a great shaft of mountains, and immediately exciting. Lunch at the Almoravides Hotel. Visit the famous Jemaa El Fna square. Dinner in a local home with the local Dekka music and the famous Gnawa music and dance.

Highlights:

Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah: Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Morocco, is a mesmerizing ancient ksar (fortified village) along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. Its earthen clay architecture, intricate alleys, and panoramic views attract tourists worldwide. Explore its well-preserved kasbahs, walk through its narrow streets, and immerse yourself in its rich history, dating back centuries. Ait Ben Haddou's timeless beauty and cinematic backdrop (featured in movies like Gladiator) offer a journey into Morocco's past and cinematic allure.

Tizi n Tichka: Tizi n Tichka is a majestic mountain pass in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco. Rising over 2,260 meters, it's the highest pass in North Africa, offering breathtaking views of the rugged landscape below. Travelers traverse its winding roads, marveling at the dramatic scenery and encountering traditional Berber villages. Tizi n Tichka is a journey through stunning natural beauty and cultural immersion into the Berber way of life, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors.

The morning will be devoted to a walking tour of Marrakech, where you will discover the historical sites with your local guide. Lunch will be free to discover eateries around Jamaa el Fna Square. Farewell Dinner will be at a Jewish restaurant in the Mellah, a typical Andalucian and Sephardic music festivity.

Highlights:

Menara Gardens: Menara Gardens, nestled near the Atlas Mountains in Marrakech, offer tranquility amidst the city's hustle. The iconic pavilion reflects in a vast reservoir surrounded by olive groves and citrus orchards, creating a serene oasis perfect for strolling or picnicking. It's a timeless escape where visitors can unwind amidst natural beauty and Moroccan architectural charm. The Menara Pool is a sophisticated reserve of water, taking its sources from the snow-capped nearby Atlas Mountains, Making Marrakech a lush oasis year-round.

Koutoubia Mosque: The Koutoubia Mosque, an architectural masterpiece in Marrakech, symbolizes the city's rich history and Islamic heritage. Its soaring minaret, adorned with intricate geometric patterns, dominates the skyline while surrounding gardens provide a peaceful retreat. As the largest mosque in Marrakech, Koutoubia is a place of worship and a landmark for cultural exploration and admiration of Islamic architecture.

Bahia Palace: Step into the opulent world of Bahia Palace, a marvel of Moroccan architecture nestled in the heart of Marrakech. Intricate mosaics, carved woodwork, and tranquil courtyards transport visitors to a bygone era of royal grandeur. Wander through its ornate rooms adorned with colorful tiles and lavish décor and immerse yourself in this breathtaking palace's rich history and exquisite beauty.

Marrakech Medina: The Marrakech Medina is a vibrant maze of bustling souks, offering an unparalleled shopping experience for every taste. Lose yourself in a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and scents as you wander through narrow alleys with stalls brimming with treasures. The Medina beckons with its exotic delights, from handcrafted textiles and intricate pottery to aromatic spices and traditional Moroccan lamps. Prepare to haggle with friendly merchants and uncover unique souvenirs that will evoke memories of your Moroccan adventure for years.

Jamaa El Fna Square: Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the pulsating heart of Marrakech, is a sensory feast like no other. By day, it's a vibrant marketplace where snake charmers, storytellers, and henna artists captivate onlookers with their ancient crafts. As dusk descends, the square transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle of food stalls, filling the air with tantalizing aromas and lively music. Amidst the bustling energy, immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Morocco, where tradition and modernity intertwine in a captivating dance.

Early morning transfer to Casablanca airport, connect with the transatlantic flight back home, and have a memorable journey to treasure for a lifetime. Come back for more on another Morocco Music Tour.