Morocco
Visit the Imperial Cities of Morocco and Jewish Heritage Sites. This is an intriguing and interesting trip for first-time Moroccan visitors interested in Jewish heritage. Discover medieval synagogues, sacred graves, beautiful marketplaces, spice souks, breathtaking scenery, and Andalusian gardens. Visit the Jewish Museum, Africa's first and only in the Muslim world. Attend shabbaton with other Young Adults. This genuine 7-Day Jewish Heritage Tour provides the greatest Jewish ravel experience in Morocco.
Morocco
Visit the Imperial Cities of Morocco and Jewish Heritage Sites. This is an intriguing and interesting trip for first-time Moroccan visitors interested in Jewish heritage. Discover medieval synagogues, sacred graves, beautiful marketplaces, spice souks, breathtaking scenery, and Andalusian gardens. Visit the Jewish Museum, Africa's first and only in the Muslim world. Attend shabbaton with other Young Adults. This genuine 7-Day Jewish Heritage Tour provides the greatest Jewish ravel experience in Morocco.
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THE EXPERIENCE
IT BEGAN WITH A STRAW MAT
The Yerushalmi mekubal, Rav Shmuel El- baz, was refused passage on a boat from Jaffa to go fundraising in North Africa. With no other choice, Rav Shmuel unfolded his mat, placed it on the choppy waters and set off towards his destination. The Jews at the time renamed him as Abu-chatzira, father of the mat. Thus was born the Abuchatzeira dynasty, Morocco’s most famous family, and Moroc- co’s reputation as an enchanted world. The magnetism of Morocco is as spellbinding as the stunning sunsets of the Sahara. We will travel to the historic beautiful sea-side medieval town of Essaouira, home of the Ancient Rabbi Chaim Pinto and visit the 500 years old shul that is still active today and home to the hiloula of Rabbi Pinto each September, attended by thousands of Jewish from around the globe! What would be the greatest funfest you can imagine in the Moroccan desert? Try an ATV safari on sand dunes in an authentic dessert! It is guaranteed to be your most thrilling off-road adventure in memory. Everything about Morocco is a feast for the eyes. The Imperial City of Fez will not disappoint with its narrow cobbled streets and stunning royal palace. The impressive details of the gorgeous Ibn Danan 17th century shul reminds us of how much love and honor our ancestors invested in serving Hashem. As we visit the local craftsmen and tanneries you will feel that you have walked back in time to the days of the Mishna.
Throughout our stay we will be studying the colorful but at times tragic history of Moroccan Jewry. The communities in the Atlas Mountains claim to go back as far as the days of Shlomo Hamelech. Some Berber tribes, the oldest inhabitants of Morocco, practiced Judaism customs. Our Shulchan Aruch is based on the three towering halakhists, The Rif, Rambam and Rosh. Two of them lived in Fez! At any given moment the Yeshivas are studying the works of the 11th century Rif. What does Rif stand for? Rav Yitzchak al-Fasi, of Fez, where he spent most of his life running his famous yeshiva. The home of the Rambam in Fez, with its mysterious water clock, is the only physical remnant we have of the Great Eagle. Jews lived on that street until 1957. The tradition (reported in Ner Maarav) is that this where he hid for six months from the fanatical Almohads who forced Jews to convert to Islam at the pain of death. During this period the Rambam wrote his Iggeret Hashmad, the Letter of Religious persecution; or Iggeret Kiddush Hashem, the Letter on Sanctifying Hashem’s name. Sadly, for generations, Jews in times of persecution turned to this letter for counsel. Perhaps the most moving moment of our trip will be davening at the colorful small domed kever of Soulika Hatzaddikah in the carefully managed Bais Hakvorot in Fez. Born in 1817, this young woman gave up her life rather than compromise her tzniyut. Her inspiring mesirut nefesh has made her tziyun a place to ask for all types of yeshuout.
Itinerary
Day 1
Nov 20th Depart for Morocco
All traveling details will be shared after registration is completed.
Day 2
Nov 21st, Monday
Welcome to Morocco’s most modern city with its magical blend of brilliant architecture, history, culture, and sophistication. You will be greeted by the team and transferred to our hotel for breakfast, and some time to rest.
● One of the highlights of our afternoon tour of Casablanca is the “street of seven synagogues” with its busy and beautiful central shul with its active kollel, reminding us of the eternal legacy of the Jewish people through tefillah and Torah. Visit the only Jewish Museum in Arab lands.
● Lavish dinner
Overnight in Casablanca
Day 3
Nov 22nd, Tuesday
We cross the heartland of Morocco and see the great cities of Meknes, Rabat, and Sale. The Imperial city of Meknes is a city of contrasts between modernity and authenticity. Its beautiful remains and monuments has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.
● We will learn about its status as a world-famous Torah center, home of the choshuv and scholarly Toldano family.
● Similarly, as we tour the splendid and stately cities of Sale and the capital city Rabat, we will learn about the uplifting and astonishing stories of the Ohr Hachaim Hakadosh.
● We will be walking the streets where centuries ago the Rif and the Rambam once hurried to give their shiurim that irrevocably changed the Torah world.
● We will visit the home where the Rambam tradition says he hid from the evil Almohads and possibly wrote his Iggeret Hashmad.
● For many the most moving moment of our trip will be hearing the story of Soulika Hatzaddikah who gave up her life rather than compromise her tzniyus. Her kever is next to the kevarim of the other famous tzaddikim of Fez and is a place to pray for all your heartfelt needs.
● We will stand at the gates of the Imperial Palace like Mordechai waiting for news about Esther, although I can assure you that Mordechai had no interest in taking pictures while admiring the majestic grandeur.
● Today is also our chance to learn about ancient artisan skills such as pottery and leather making. Watch the pros in action!
Overnight in Fez
Day 4
Nov 23rd, Wednesday
Visit to the leather and ceramic Shuk, our chance to learn about ancient artisan skills such as pottery and leather making. Watch the pros in action!
● In the Afternoon to Chefchaouen, Morocco’s blue city
● Return to Fez
Overnight in Fez
Day 5
Thursday, November 24
Fly to Marrakech
MARRAKECH a gorgeous city of legends, Marrakech is the promise of unequaled sensations. Wide boulevards and elegant palaces, this city was the gem of French influence in Africa.
Morning
● See the 500-year-old Slat Laazamah shul and the ancient Mellah (Jewish quarter). Strolling the Jemaa El-Fna square and seemingly never-ending souks with their shimmering colors and oriental smells, you will see snake charmers, artisans and traditional musicians. This is the opportunity to practice your bargaining skills. It’s a win-win situation, as the locals get your spare change, and you get a suitcase of metzias and tchotchkeles to take home with you.
Afternoon
● We will discover the Agafay desert as we go off the beaten track to a Bedouin village of gorgeous rugged mountain ridges, canyons and stunning natural beauty. Enjoy ATVs and quads and more as we dune bash through the scenic terrain.
● Watch a real Arabic Fire Show and a special “Dinner Under the Stars” topped off with a grand concert.
Overnight in Marrakech
Day 6
November 25, Friday
Morning
After breakfast, visit to the Berber village of Ourika and experience a taste of the Berber life style. Halfway on the road through Vallée d’Ourika in Aghbalou, is an old Berber Jewish sanctuary and synagogue famous for the tomb of tzaddik Rabbi Shlomo bel Hansh.
Afternoon
● Enjoy the pools, spa, and grounds of the resort.
● Prepare for an unforgettable high Shabbat in Marrakech
Overnight in Marrakech
Day 7
November 26th, Shabbat in Morocco
Special Shabbat programming
After Shabbat
Horse and buggy ride through old town Marrakech followed by a Melava Malka with live music.
Overnight in Marrakech
November 27th, Sunday
Return to origin cities
Day 9
Day 10
Trip FAQ
What language is spoken in Morocco?
The official languages of Morocco are Arabic and Berber. You will also note French is often spoken as Morocco is a former colony of France.
Is English spoken throughout Morocco?
English is taught as a second language in schools. However, do not assume every individual you meet will be able to converse in English. It can be cost effective to retain a trilingual tour guide on your small or private group tour if this is a concern.
What currency is used in Morocco?
The currency used throughout the country is the Moroccan dirham. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are common, dispensing local currency.
Do I need a visa and is a passport required to travel to Morocco?
A visa is not required when traveling from Canada or the United States as a tourist for up to 90 days. A valid passport is mandatory. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Morocco.
When is the best time to travel to Morocco?
The best time to visit Morocco is either in the spring from March to May or in fall between September to October. Other months can also be pleasant if you prefer it very hot and sunny, or don’t mind the cold.
Is there transportation within Morocco?
There is a public transit system in Morocco that uses rail to link the main towns and buses for inner city trips. Small private and group tours will typically use large vans and sedans. Medium to large motor coaches are used for larger group holidays.
Is Morocco a family friendly destination?
Morocco is a great vacation for the family with plenty for all ages to enjoy. Take a hot-air balloon ride over Marrakech, explore the Ourika Valley, ride a camel in the Sahara Desert, explore the colorful medina in Fez, and so much more. This moderate Muslim North African country is for all travelers.
What vaccinations are required or suggested for travel to Morocco?
Currently their are no compulsory vaccinations required for Morocco, however, we recommend you consult with your local travel clinic for the most up to date recommendations, particularly in regards to malaria prophylactics.
Morocco
IT BEGAN WITH A STRAW MAT
The Yerushalmi mekubal, Rav Shmuel El- baz, was refused passage on a boat from Jaffa to go fundraising in North Africa. With no other choice, Rav Shmuel unfolded his mat, placed it on the choppy waters and set off towards his destination. The Jews at the time renamed him as Abu-chatzira, father of the mat. Thus was born the Abuchatzeira dynasty, Morocco’s most famous family, and Moroc- co’s reputation as an enchanted world. The magnetism of Morocco is as spellbinding as the stunning sunsets of the Sahara. We will travel to the historic beautiful sea-side medieval town of Essaouira, home of the Ancient Rabbi Chaim Pinto and visit the 500 years old shul that is still active today and home to the hiloula of Rabbi Pinto each September, attended by thousands of Jewish from around the globe! What would be the greatest funfest you can imagine in the Moroccan desert? Try an ATV safari on sand dunes in an authentic dessert! It is guaranteed to be your most thrilling off-road adventure in memory. Everything about Morocco is a feast for the eyes. The Imperial City of Fez will not disappoint with its narrow cobbled streets and stunning royal palace. The impressive details of the gorgeous Ibn Danan 17th century shul reminds us of how much love and honor our ancestors invested in serving Hashem. As we visit the local craftsmen and tanneries you will feel that you have walked back in time to the days of the Mishna.
Throughout our stay we will be studying the colorful but at times tragic history of Moroccan Jewry. The communities in the Atlas Mountains claim to go back as far as the days of Shlomo Hamelech. Some Berber tribes, the oldest inhabitants of Morocco, practiced Judaism customs. Our Shulchan Aruch is based on the three towering halakhists, The Rif, Rambam and Rosh. Two of them lived in Fez! At any given moment the Yeshivas are studying the works of the 11th century Rif. What does Rif stand for? Rav Yitzchak al-Fasi, of Fez, where he spent most of his life running his famous yeshiva. The home of the Rambam in Fez, with its mysterious water clock, is the only physical remnant we have of the Great Eagle. Jews lived on that street until 1957. The tradition (reported in Ner Maarav) is that this where he hid for six months from the fanatical Almohads who forced Jews to convert to Islam at the pain of death. During this period the Rambam wrote his Iggeret Hashmad, the Letter of Religious persecution; or Iggeret Kiddush Hashem, the Letter on Sanctifying Hashem’s name. Sadly, for generations, Jews in times of persecution turned to this letter for counsel. Perhaps the most moving moment of our trip will be davening at the colorful small domed kever of Soulika Hatzaddikah in the carefully managed Bais Hakvorot in Fez. Born in 1817, this young woman gave up her life rather than compromise her tzniyut. Her inspiring mesirut nefesh has made her tziyun a place to ask for all types of yeshuout.
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