Jewish Heritage Tour of Morocco
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Explore Your Jewish Heritage in Morocco with Morocco Expert
Welcome to Morocco. Our rich and diverse country is known for its many influences, and on this tour, we are proud to share the Jewish heritage of Morocco. We have created this unique experience for our customers who wish to understand the history of the Jewish people and its influence in Morocco. This is a private tour available for any date during the year. Please request in advance to confirm availability. Our expert team provides customers with a tour rich in Moroccan culture and history for a truly memorable experience.
The Jewish presence in Morocco dates back 2500 years. After the Roman conquest of Judaea in 6 AD, Jews dispersed throughout the Roman Empire including modern-day Morocco. Many Jews settled amongst the Berber tribes, adopting their languages, and engaging in agriculture, cattle raising and trade. Sephardic Jews fled to Morocco and Northern Africa in the 15th century during the Spanish Expulsion. By 1948 the Jewish population was about 250,000, however, that number began to decline in the 1950s and 60’s due to continued aliyah and a new wave of emigrations to Europe and the Americas in the 1970s and 80’s. About 2000-2500 Jews still live in Morocco today, primarily in Casablanca.
The following synagogues will be visited on the Jewish heritage tour:
Temple Beth El – Casablanca
Ibn Dannon – Fes
Lazama – Marrakech
Caim Pinto – Essaouira
Lkahal – Essaouira
Food and Kosher Restaurants in Morocco
Kosher restaurants exist in Morocco. Please check the following link for kosher restaurant options: Moroccan Restaurants
During the tour there will be places in the southeast of Morocco that have limited cuisines, however, there will be vegetarian options available.
Sabbath-Shabbat or Shabbos: as the Day of Rest and the seventh day of the week, Shabbat is observed from a few minutes before sunset on Friday evening until the appearance of three stars in the sky on Saturday night. Shabbat is ushered in by lighting candles and reciting a blessing. Traditionally three meals are eaten, beginning with the blessing Kiddush. Known also as a day for freedom from daily activities, to appreciate the spiritual aspect of life and to spend time with family.
Hiloulot: Moroccan Jews are unique in their reverence for deceased pious and learned rabbis. Throughout Morocco, there are hundreds of Jewish saints – as these rabbis are called – whose tombs are usually located in Jewish cemeteries and taken care of by followers. These followers arrange a festival once a year, many of which are small affairs, however, some can attract thousands of people, from as far away as Israel or the US. During these events Jews return to their native villages or regions, often visiting with others from the community who have also moved away. The main religious purpose is to pray for a good life and the resolution of problems, celebrated with food, drink and music.
Visa: Please check visa requirements. Israeli citizens require a visa to enter Morocco.
Highlights: Our tour will introduce you to the Jewish heritage and its deep roots in our Moroccan history and culture. Discover sites including synagogues, cemeteries, zaouias and mellahs. Enjoy the luxury of Moroccan style riads.
Accommodations:
– Casablanca: Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche/ or Sheraton
– Chefchaouen: Riad Lina and Spa
– Fes: Riad Palais Faraj/Palais Jamai Sofitel
– Merzouga: Riad Madu
– Erg Chebbi: Bouchedor Luxury Desert Camp/ Sahara Stars Camp
– Skoura: Kasbah ait Ben Damiette
– Marrakech: Riad La Maison Arabe
– Essaouira: Riad L’heur Blue: Relais Chateaux
Day 1: Casablanca arrival
Upon your arrival at the airport, we will pick you up and drive you to the City of Casablanca. There, you will have the opportunity to visit the Hassan II Mosque, which is the largest mosque outside of Mecca, and enjoy the scenic Cornish seaside. Additionally, you can explore the Jewish Museum. If time and energy permit, you can also see the gates of the Royal Palace and the French-built Quartier Habous. Don’t miss the chance to visit the ‘new mellah’, the area where most of Morocco’s Jewish community resides, and the Bet El Synagogue. Later, you will check in and spend the night at Hotel Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche.
Day 2: Casablanca – Rabat – Ouzzane – Chefchaouen
After enjoying a luxurious breakfast at your accommodation, we will transport you to Rabat, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore the capital city of Morocco. Highlights of the visit include seeing the Mausoleum, the Hassan Tower, and the Oudaya Kasbah.
Following your time in Rabat, we’ll journey to Chefchaouen, with a stopover in the city of Ouazzan. In Ouazzan, you’ll discover the history of Amram ben Diwan, a revered 18th-century rabbi whose tomb has become an annual pilgrimage site.
Born in Jerusalem, Rabbi Amram later settled in Hebron in 1743 before traveling to Morocco to collect donations for the Holy Land from the Jewish community there. He eventually made his home in Ouazzan, where he taught the Talmud and gained many followers.
After a decade in Morocco, Rabbi Amram returned to Hebron, where, according to legend, he disguised himself as a Muslim to enter the Cave of the Patriarchs, an act forbidden to Jews at the time. However, he was discovered and reported to the Ottoman Pasha, leading to his arrest.
Fleeing back to Morocco, he found refuge among the Jewish community of Fes. Renowned for his healing abilities, Rabbi Amram eventually passed away in Ouazzan in 1782 while touring Morocco with his son, Rabbi Hayyim ben Diwan.
Upon reaching Chefchaouen in the afternoon, you will be accommodated at Riad Lina and Spa or a similar establishment.
Day 3: Explore Chefchaouen
After breakfast at your hotel, you will begin exploring the Medina. Chefchaouen is a stunning and unique city known for its white-washed walls, blue doors, and windows. Unlike many other parts of Morocco, Chefchaouen was once occupied by Spain, resulting in significant Spanish influence on its civilization and architecture. Visiting the Mellah provides insight into Chefchaouen’s history, particularly its increase in Jewish population following the Spanish Reconquista during the 15th Century. You’ll have the chance to meet locals and stroll through this picturesque Medina. Overnight accommodations will be provided at Riad Lina and Spa or a similar establishment.
Day 4: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes
After breakfast at the hotel and exploring the city of Chefchaouen, we will embark on a journey southward via Ouazzan towards Volubilis, a remarkably well-preserved Roman empire site dating back to 225 BC. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to admire some mosaics that are still in excellent condition.
Following our exploration of Volubilis, we will continue our journey to Meknes, known as the Ismaili capital of Morocco. In Meknes, we will visit the fascinating Bab Mansour gate, constructed by Sultan My Ismail, as well as the granary and the Sahrij Souani, which were utilized for irrigation and plantation purposes.
We will then proceed via the highway to Fes, where we will spend the night at Riad Palais Faraj.
Day 5: Exploring Fes
After breakfast at your riad, you will embark on an exploratory journey through the cultural capital of Morocco, wandering through its alleys and narrow streets. Our itinerary begins with a visit to the Royal Palace, the Jewish quarter, and the Synagogue Ibn Dannon, which marks the location of the first Mellah ever constructed in Morocco.
We will ensure that you experience all the sites of cultural and historical significance, including the renowned Al Qaraouine University, the oldest university in the region, and the Tanneries. Following lunch, you will have the opportunity to visit a ceramic factory and enjoy a panoramic view of the entire Medina of Fes.
In the afternoon, we will venture into the new city for a refreshing drink. You will spend the night at your riad, Riad Palais Faraj.
Day 6: Fez – Ifran – Azrou – Errachidia – Merzouga
After enjoying breakfast at your riad, you will depart from Fes and travel towards Ifrane, often referred to as “the Switzerland of Morocco,” and then onward to Merzouga via Azrou and the Ziz Valley. Throughout this journey, you will be treated to glimpses of the Middle Atlas and Higher Atlas mountains.
A stop in Azrou, a Berber village nestled within the renowned cedar forest – the largest in Morocco – offers the chance to potentially spot Barbary apes. As you approach the city of Errachidia, you will observe the landscape transforming, revealing subtle hints of the desert.
Continuing your journey to Merzouga via the Tizi Ntalghamt pass and the scenic Ziz Valley, you will pause for panoramic views along the way. Upon arrival in Merzouga in the late afternoon, you will be greeted with a glass of mint tea before checking in to Riad Madu.
Day 7: Merzouga area and the Camel trek
After enjoying breakfast at the riad, you will embark on an exploratory journey of the area. Your first stop will be to visit the Gnawa people, originally brought from Sudan as slaves, to immerse yourself in their music and lifestyle. Nearby, you’ll find the Merzouga lake, known for its diverse bird populations. You may also have the opportunity to visit a nomad wire house, where you can find Berber handicrafts at prices typically lower than those in larger cities.
In the afternoon, you will mount your camel, guided by an experienced camel handler, to explore the sand sea of Merzouga. Witness a breathtaking sunset over the golden dunes before spending the night at the desert camp, equipped with flash toilets. Your accommodation options include Bouchedor Luxury Desert Camp or Sahara Stars.
Day 8: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Skoura
If you wish, early in the morning, we can wake you up to witness what may well be the most spectacular sunrise of your life. Following this awe-inspiring experience, you’ll peacefully trek back to the village of Merzouga on camelback. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the unique beauty of the stunning Erg Chebbi sand dunes, which undergo mesmerizing transformations as the light shifts throughout the day.
After enjoying breakfast at the riad, we’ll depart for Rissani, Tinghir, and Todra Gorges – the highest and narrowest gorges in Morocco. Following lunch amidst the heart of the gorge, we’ll journey through the Dades Valley, where you’ll marvel at the majestic sand castles and remarkable rock formations known as “monkey toes.”
As we travel through Kelaat Mgouna, we’ll make a stop to visit the Jewish Cemetery before continuing our drive to Skoura. Overnight accommodations will be provided at Skoura Kasbah Ait Ben Dammiette.
Day 9: Skoura – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – Marrakech
Today, after enjoying breakfast in your special oasis of Skoura, we will embark on a drive to Marrakech. The route through the “Way of the Thousand Kasbahs” offers numerous opportunities to capture some of the best photographic moments of your trip. Along the way, we’ll make a stop at Kalaa Mgouna, also known as “the rose city,” where you can purchase rosewater to keep your linens smelling delightful long after your journey ends.
Continuing our journey, we will visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, the largest Kasbah in Morocco. This historical site was constructed by Et Hami El Glaoui, one of the last Berber chieftains, during the 18th century, and now serves as a residence for many Glaoui people.
Our adventure will then take us through the majestic Tizi n’tichka Pass (2260m) over the High Atlas Mountains, before reaching your accommodation in Marrakech. You will spend the night at Riad La Maison Arabe.
Day 10: Exploring Marrakech
After breakfast at the riad, you can begin exploring Marrakech, known as “the red city of Morocco.” Your guide will ensure you visit the most significant historical and cultural sites, including the Saadian Tombs, the Palaces of El Bahia and El Badi, and the Ben Youssef Coranic School. Lunch will be served at a restaurant near the square.
In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Majorelle Gardens, Menara Gardens, and the iconic Koutoubia Tower. Additionally, we will see the Lazama Synagogue and explore the Mellah, including a visit to the Jewish Cemetery.
After dinner, you’ll have the opportunity to stroll around the vibrant Jemaa El Fna Square, bustling with magicians, storytellers, snake charmers, and food vendors. You will spend the night at Riad La Maison Arabe. Tonight, a special dinner awaits you at Jad Mahal, where you can enjoy belly dancing and dine al fresco.
Day 11: Marrakech – Essaouira
After enjoying breakfast at your accommodation in Marrakech, we will journey to Essaouira. Along the way, we will make several stops for photo opportunities. Given that this region is known for its Argan culture, you will have the chance to visit a women’s cooperative specializing in Argan oil production. Here, you can witness the extraction process of this renowned oil, celebrated for its culinary, cosmetic, and medicinal uses. Your overnight stay will be at Riad L’Heure Bleue.
Day 12: Exploring Essaouira
After breakfast at your riad, you will begin exploring the city of Essaouira. You’ll visit the Skala Fortress, the port, and the bustling souks, where you’ll have the opportunity to see Thuya wood carved by skilled artisans and browse through hundreds of handicrafts.
Essaouira is renowned for its strong winds throughout much of the year, earning it the nickname “City of the Wind” and attracting surfers from around the globe. Despite its rich history, including periods of Portuguese occupation that have influenced its architecture, Essaouira retains the ambiance of a quaint village.
Due to its small size, distinctive blue doors, and whitewashed walls, Essaouira is often referred to as Morocco’s “Jewel of the Atlantic.” Your visit will also include the Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter, where you can see the old and new synagogues, Chaim Pinto, and Lakhal, as well as explore the cemetery.
Essaouira hosts an annual festival of Gnawa music, attracting musical groups from various parts of Africa and beyond. You will spend the night at Riad L’Heure Bleue.
Day 13: Essaouira – Casablanca
After breakfast at the riad in Essaouira, we will drive you along the picturesque coast, making several stops along the way to fully experience the authentic magic of the Moroccan coastline. Our journey will culminate in reaching Casablanca, where you will spend the night at Hotel Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche or Sheraton.
Day 14: Casablanca – Departure
After enjoying a luxurious breakfast at your accommodation, we will provide transportation to the airport, marking the end of the tour. Your departure time will depend on your flight schedule.
*It does include:
-All accommodation as illustrated on the itinerary.
-City guides and entries fees in Fes and Marrakech.
-The camel trek in the desert and the night in the nomad tent.
– Dinner in Marrakech with Show either at Chez Ali for Fantasia Show, or At Jad Mahal we leave the Choice to you to pick.
*It does not include:
-Hassan II Mosque entree fees.
-Dinners in Casablanca, Chefchaouen, Fes, Marrakech and Essaouira.
-Travel insurance which is required (in case of any medical emergency).
-All that is not mentioned above.
My husband and I had a glorious day trip with Morocco Expert Tours in September. Arranging our day to Essaouira was completed promptly and with excellent communication. Our stop along the way to see the goats in the argan trees was a real treat. Essaouira is a picturesque seaside town and we had a terrific lunch with seafood chosen fresh from the water. Youssef, our guide and Mohammed our experienced driver were terrific to travel with. Youssef gave wonderful historical facts and commentary and kept us humoured by riddles en route. Many thanks to Hamid for helping with the arrangements.
Thank you Morocco Expert Tours for this memory of a lifetime!
Morocco Expert Tours took me throughout Morocco, from Casablanca, to Rabat, Meknes, Fes, Merzouga, through the gorges and into Marrakech. The company booked me into beautiful riads in each city. The guides and drivers were incredibly attentive, reliable and sensitive to my needs. By the end of the two weeks, I felt like family. I can’t say enough good about this touring company.
Morocco Expert Tours did an AMAZING job customizing a tour to our needs, right down to a last-minute change required because our luggage arrived late. They were nothing short of spectacular! We felt so well taken care of! MET took care to match our activities to our interests and made long days travel days in the car fly by, pacing stops and excursions with perfect timing! We could not have been happier with our trip!