Marrakech to Madrid

This itinerary is the starting point for your tour, but it’s not set in stone. If there are days you would like to change, or specific places you’d like to go, we can work with you to create a personalized program that fits the needs of you and your students.

Day 1: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2: Marrakech

Arrive in Marrakech, the Red City, where you will be warmly greeted by your ACIS Tour Manager and transferred to your hotel. If the timing of your arrival flight permits, embark on a brief orientation sightseeing tour of this cosmopolitan destination, a vibrant blend of the ancient charm found in its medina, historic souks, and modern influences in areas like Guéliz.

Day 3: Marrakech

Unlock the secrets of Marrakech during today's sightseeing. Highlights include the perpetually bustling Jemaa El Fna square, seeing Koutoubia Mosque’s skyline-dominating 282-foot minaret, and soaking in the atmosphere of the 12th century Kasbah’s food market, bakeries and narrow alleyways. A fun and collaborative Culture Quest treasure hunt introduces you to the medina's historic fondouks and their local artisans as you follow clues and solve puzzles to complete each challenge with your team. You'll also visit the opulent 19th century Bahia Palace to marvel at the intricate craftsmanship decorating this splendid home, courtyard and gardens that were built by a powerful Vizir for his Harem. Following an afternoon to explore more at your own pace, you'll be delighted this evening by a special dinner featuring authentic local cuisine as performers entertain you with traditional Moroccan songs and dances.

Day 4: Marrakech

This morning visit with local students at a Marrakech-area school (if not available, another cultural visit will be substituted). You will have a chance to practice languages, share customs and learn about the similarities and differences between American and Moroccan school days. Then an excursion brings you into the scenic Ourika Valley for an enriching cultural exchange and home-cooked tagine lunch with members of an Amazigh (Berber) community. A guided walk through the village offers you a glimpse into the rhythm of this simple rural lifestyle before you're welcomed into a traditional Moroccan home where your host will share stories about the family’s heritage and the customs that shape daily life in the valley. During a shared lunch together, you'll savor authentic Moroccan cuisine using fresh local ingredients and recipes passed down through generations. Then return to Marrakech.

Day 5: Agafay

Embark on a magical journey today with a scenic drive to the rocky dunes of the Agafay Desert. Meet some members of the local Amazigh (Berber) community as they guide you on a sunset camel ride through the unique terrain of this captivating landscape. As evening falls, indulge in a memorable lantern-lit dining experience under the shelter of the nomadic community camp, savoring delicious Moroccan cuisine. Then enjoy stargazing in Agafay under a clear, unpolluted sky, before a special overnight stay in comfortable desert tents.

Day 6: Madrid

Wake up to beautiful desert surroundings, pack up and transfer to the airport in Marrakech for your flight to Madrid. Upon arrival an orientation paseo led by your ACIS Tour Manager will introduce you to this magnificent capital city and cultural center.

Day 7: Madrid

Madrid's rich heritage comes alive on a guided morning walking tour that showcases classic Spanish boulevards, grand plazas and the diverse architecture of modern-day Madrid. Highlights include the Teatro Real Opera House, Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol and Neptune Fountain. You'll also go inside the magnificent Prado (skipping the lines with a timed reservation), one of the world's premier art museums. Here an expert will provide illuminating commentary about the artwork of Velázquez, Goya, Raphael, Rubens and Bosch. Even the 18th-century neo-classical building that houses the collection is stunning. After free time to further immerse yourself in the wonders of this fascinating city, top off the day by dining like the madrileños do during an authentic tapas evening. Classic tapas dishes include items such as tortilla española, patatas bravas, bacalao, cheeses, olives or jamón.

Day 8: Madrid

Depart for a full-day excursion to culturally diverse Toledo, known for its unique blend of Christian, Jewish and Muslim influences. As you listen to your guide's commentary, visit landmarks such as the Gothic Cathedral, the Medieval Synagogue and the Church of Santo Tomé, home to one of El Greco's best-known paintings, The Burial of Count Orgaz. Then visit a local restaurant for a Spanish cooking lesson led by professional chefs. Work in teams to create traditional dishes before dining on the tasty results with spectacular views of the Toledo skyline. Return to Madrid for the evening and perhaps take a stroll to see the artists and street performers in Plaza Mayor.

Day 9: Departure

Depart for the USA.