Day 04: Casablanca - Rabat

After breakfast, we will drive to Rabat, where the ancient and modern collide in the tree-fringed boulevards of this European-flavored, administrative capital of Morocco. Our local informative guide will ensure you have a wonderful day. Among the many sights to be seen will be the Kasbah des Oudayas with its beautiful Andalusian gardens located at the mouth of the river Abu Regrag. The Kasbah was originally built in the 12th century by the al Mohades dynasty. A highlight of the day will be your visit to the Hassan Tower, another UNESCO site in Rabat, which is part of an incomplete mosque also built by the same dynasty in the 12th century. At the same location is the mausoleum of Mohamed V and Hassan II with its own amazing architecture. While at this site you will also walk to have a view of the stunning performing arts center. Then, if time permits you will visit the beautiful ruins of Chella. Lunch will be at one of the recommended restaurants with a view of the Atlantic Ocean. Following lunch, we will drive back to Casablanca. Overnight accommodation at the same hotel BB. After arriving in Essaouira you will be met by our local knowledgeable guide for a wonderful tour of the town. You will visit the Skala fortress, see the magnificent canons and watch falcons, and gulls hover above the nature reserve on the Purpuraires Islands. To the north of the Skala you may see surfers, windsurfers and kite surfers all taming the waves. Be sure to ask your guide to show you the many places in Essaouira immortalized in film. Your guide will take you to the fishing port with its bustling fish market and through the medina where you will learn more of the town’s fascinating history and see many artisans at work including the thuya (a local wood) carvers. In the late afternoon, we will return to Marrakech. Overnight accommodation in a hotel or riad BB.