Contemporary & Imperial Morocco
Immerse your senses in the vibrant sites, sounds and scents of this intriguing country.
Trip Details
Trip Dates
Cost
This thoughtfully curated journey offers more than just a glimpse into Morocco’s imperial past and colorful markets—it’s an immersive experience that blends the richness of Morocco’s heritage with the pulse of its modern social movements.
Travelers will engage with a wide spectrum of voices—feminist scholars advocating for gender equity, Amazigh activists working to preserve indigenous identity, social entrepreneurs redefining opportunity, and environmental defenders pushing back against extractive industry. You’ll connect with artists, journalists, civic leaders, and changemakers who offer unfiltered perspectives on Morocco’s evolving landscape.
Walk through Roman ruins in Volubilis, admire the exquisite architecture of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, and see the world’s oldest university in the medieval heart of Fez. Wander through centuries-old medinas and mausoleums, palaces and synagogues, all while reflecting on the interplay of tradition and transformation.
From conversations about post-colonial identity to hands-on experiences with traditional artisans in Sefrou and Meknes, this tour is both intellectually engaging and sensorially rich. You’ll sleep in restored riads, desert camps, and hilltop kasbahs, traveling from bustling cities to the rocky silence of the Agafay Desert to Berber villages.
See the itinerary for complete details. Questions? Contact us via the form at the bottom of this page or call us at 212-209-5401.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Participate in a pre-departure discussion with Aida Alami, a Marrakesh-based freelance journalist who writes about politics, religion, migration, racism and human-rights issues.
- Meet with experts like Kathya Berrada (on Islam and freedom), Houda Zekri (on Muslim feminism), and Elias Terrass (on environmental and political activism) offer a nuanced understanding of Morocco’s struggles and strides toward gender equality, free societies, and ecological justice.
- Visit Sefrou’s artisan workshops and support of initiatives like AMAL (women’s culinary training center), which show how tourism can support local economies, women’s empowerment, and traditional knowledge.
- Learn about Fez Medina’s UNESCO restoration projects with Naima Lahbil, and explore the Volubilis Roman ruins.
- Discussion with Saddik Rddad about Amazigh (Berber) identity and visits to the Women’s Museum in Marrakech offer critical perspectives on indigenous rights, cultural revival, and the fight against historical marginalization in the Maghreb.
- Overnight at Scarabeo Camp set in a dramatic landscape of the Agafay desert’s barren grandeur and with a view of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains.
- Discover Berber life in Bab Ouirka, where we stay at a charming property perched on a hilltop with stunning mountain views, and visit local artisans to learn about programs established to maintain artistic traditions and provide skills and jobs to the local youth.
Questions? Contact us via the form at the bottom of this page or call us at 212-209-5401.
100% of the proceeds from our travel programs support The Nation’s journalism.
The Nation purchases carbon offsets to mitigate the effects of our travel program on the environment.
Past Traveler Testimonials
"I liked that we covered so much territory. We saw so many different things. I think you guys are top-flight, and I feel it a privilege to have been a part of such a wonderful experience."
"I think that the tour was excellent: well organized, informative. I truly enjoyed most of the speakers who told us so much about their country and highlighted, at least to me, how activists try to create change in an authoritarian regime. It was the BEST programmed tour I have ever taken. Everything was superlative!"
"I regret I did not decide years ago to travel with The Nation."
"It was the guest speakers I was most looking forward to, and I was not disappointed. Thank you!"
"Jalil (Moroccan guide) is a gem. Absolutely brilliant. Also funny, wise, kind and caring."
Traveler Photos
Candid images from our journeys...
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Relax and enjoy the stunning views from your hotel, Kasbah Bab Ourika. -
Stroll the Anima Garden, where artist André Heller has created an opulent two-hectare botanical art piece. -
Take a sunset camel ride in the desert. -
A group photo at the stunning Majorelle, the garden and former home of Yves Saint Laurent. -
Rose petals in a Morrocan market. -
Explore the ancient souk in Fez. -
See spectacular sites on walking tours. -
Morocco's medinas are full of rich color. -
Stop by a women's weaving co-op in Fez. -
Accompanying you throughout the journey is our popular guide, Jalil Benbili. -
Traveler exploring the gardens at Marjorelle in Marrakech.