Moorish Spain & Morocco Discovery Holiday

Captivating journey through Andalucia and its Moorish origins

Once the heart of the Moorish empire, 'Al-Andalus' is where the Moors and Berbers from Morocco first set foot in Spain and remained the longest, until their eventual expulsion from Granada in 1492. They built a sophisticated Muslim kingdom, giving Andalucia its richest and most lasting cultural heritage. After a few days learning how this Moorish legacy pervades Andalucian life at every level, we cross by ferry to Morocco and arrive at Tangier, where the Berber force gathered to conquer Spain in 711. With the vibrant medina of Tangier, the Andalucian quarter of Fez, one of Morocco's oldest imperial cities, and the lively evening atmosphere on Djemaa el Fna Square in Marrakech, this shared Moorish history is evident throughout. For those who love meandering narrow streets, beautiful gardens and stunning architecture, it would be difficult to think of four more appealing cities than Granada, Ronda, Fez and Marrakech.

Travelling by train lets us fully appreciate the changing scenery through these two contrasting yet familiar countries that are surely a feast for your senses.

What makes this trip responsible?

This itinerary visits local cooperatives that help keep local agriculture alive and fair. With regular training between UK leaders and local staff, we can ensure our responsible tourism practices are passed onto local leaders. Where possible, we use family-run accommodations yet this is not always possible in major cities.

Morocco Community project

After funding a water tower for the remote village of Tijhza in 2000, we have been involved in a variety of schemes requested by the Berbers to improve their community life. With a new water pipeline system fitted in the village, every house can now enjoy running water and our funds have also stretched to paying for much-needed operations for some of the children. Our biggest achievement is the village hammam (Moroccan steam bath) that will help with important hygiene issues as well as creating a self-sustainable income.
Get involved by sending your leftover dirhams to Amanda Ceraolo in the Exodus office; donate online via our website or join a volunteer departure (Trip code: AMO) led by project founder, Andy McKee.

For more information, please see Project page.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: Morocco, Spain

Day 1

Fly to Malaga.

Day 2

To Granada; explore the Albaicin gypsy quarter, the Moorish baths and Capilla Real, resting place of the Catholic monarchs who ended Moorish rule in Spain; optional visit to the Alhambra Palace.

Day 3

Drive to Setenil de la Bodegas, a beautiful White Village set amid Andalucia's rolling hills; on to Ronda.

Day 4

Gentle walk into the stunning Grazalema National Park; return to Ronda.

Day 5

Take the train to Algeciras for an exciting ferry journey across to Tangier; evening to explore the vibrant medina.

Day 6

To one the world's finest Islamic cities, Fez; visit the beautiful area of Chefchouen en route.

Day 7

Morning guided tour of the labyrinth of alleyways including a visit to the Andalucian Quarter; free afternoon.

Day 8

Visit the Roman site of Volubilis; on to Rabat to walk through Kasbah des Oudaias.

Day 9

Board the train for Marrakech and transfer into the breath-taking Atlas Mountains.

Day 10

Gentle walk in the foothills of Toubkal, Morocco's highest mountain; return to Marrakech.

Day 11

Free day in Marrakech to explore the souks, gardens, palaces and mosques and absorb the atmosphere of the vibrant Djemaa el Fna Square.

Day 12

Fly to London.

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Exodus images from MOORISH SPAIN & MOROCCO

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The Alhambra, Granada