Jewish Morocco: From Mellah to Medina
Overview
This carefully curated itinerary immerses you in the rich tapestry of Jewish life, from ancient traditions to modern communities.
Explore historic mellahs, sacred synagogues, and bustling medinas, including the Lazama Synagogue in Marrakech, where we will celebrate Shabbat with a festive lunch hosted by members of the local Jewish community. Discover the only Jewish Museum in the Arab world, meet community leaders whose roots trace back to antiquity, and learn about the restoration of Jewish cemeteries and sacred sites that are fueling a revival of Jewish pilgrimage, particularly during the festive celebration of Mimouna.
Beyond its rich Jewish heritage, this journey invites you to experience Morocco’s vibrant broader culture. Stroll through colorful souks, marvel at the majestic Atlas Mountains, and savor exquisite Moroccan cuisine. With its stunning landscapes, alluring architecture, and unforgettable cultural encounters, this trip offers a profound exploration of Morocco’s Jewish legacy and its enduring connections to the diverse cultures of this remarkable land.
Arrive in Casablanca and settle into your hotel, allowing yourself time to land, connect, and ease into the rhythm of the journey.
Overnight: Casablanca
After breakfast at the hotel, we begin with an orientation, setting the tone for the days ahead before stepping into the city. Our morning takes us into the Medina of Casablanca, offering a first glimpse into daily Moroccan life, before gathering for a shared lunch and continuing into the historic Mellah. In the afternoon, we walk along the Corniche toward Habous and the Supreme Court, taking in the rhythm of the city as it unfolds around us. This evening, we are welcomed into the home of a local and active member of the Jewish community for a private dinner, offering a more personal and intimate introduction to Jewish life in Casablanca today.
Overnight: Casablanca
After breakfast at the hotel, we set out to visit both the Beth El and Neve Shalom Synagogues, along with the local day school, where we will spend time with Rabbi Jacky Sebbag. Together, these two synagogues offer a fuller picture of the community, Beth El as a central, formal anchor, and Neve Shalom as a more intimate reflection of daily Jewish life in Casablanca today. From there, we continue to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, dramatically set along the Atlantic. After lunch, we visit the Jewish Museum, deepening our understanding of Morocco's rich and layered Jewish history. This evening, we will gather for dinner at Rick's Café.
Overnight: Casablanca
After breakfast, we depart from Casablanca and begin our journey toward Fes. Along the way, we stop in Meknes, one of Morocco's imperial cities, where we visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the grand Bab Mansour Gate, and the historic Mellah, including its synagogue and cemetery. We then continue to Fes, arriving in the late afternoon and checking in at our hotel. Dinner this evening will be at the hotel.
Overnight: Fes
After breakfast at the hotel, we begin our day with a visit to the Royal Palace, followed by the Mellah, where we explore the Ibn Danan Synagogue, the El Fassiyine Synagogue, the historic Jewish cemetery, and the Jewish Museum of the Em Habanim Sephardic Congregation. We continue to the Bou Inania Madrasa before entering the medina of Fes el-Bali for a walking tour, including the Dar Batha Museum and the Rambam House. Along the way, we pause for a learning session at the Ibn Danan Synagogue and take in a photo opportunity at the gates of the King's Palace.
After lunch at Palais Mnebhi, we continue our exploration of the medina, visiting the famed Chouara Tanneries and traditional ceramic workshops, offering a window into the city's enduring artisan culture. In the evening, we gather for dinner together at the hotel.
Overnight: Fes
After breakfast at the hotel, we check out and begin our journey to Marrakech, with snacks and lunchboxes for the road. Along the way, we stop in Rabat to visit the Hassan Tower and the Kasbah of the Oudayas, overlooking the Atlantic, and spend time together over coffee with David Toledano, a senior figure in Morocco's Jewish community and a member of one of its longstanding families, who brings a deeply personal perspective on Jewish life in Morocco today. We continue south, pausing for lunch en route, before arriving in Marrakech in the late afternoon and checking into our hotel. There is time to settle in and prepare for Shabbat before we gather in the evening for a kosher Shabbat dinner together in a private room at the hotel.
Overnight: Marrakech
A slower, more spacious day unfolds as we settle into the rhythm of Shabbat. We begin with services at the Lazama Synagogue, followed by time in the historic Mellah and a visit to the beautiful Bahia Palace. We are then welcomed into the Ohayon family home for a special Shabbat lunch. The afternoon is at-leisure, with time to rest, walk, or simply take it all in. As evening falls, we make our way to Jemaa el-Fna Square, where the energy of Marrakech comes alive.
Overnight: Marrakech
Visit a traditional herbalist, where we will learn about the ancient remedies, spices, oils, and healing traditions that have been part of Moroccan daily life for generations. Explore the enchanting Majorelle Garden and the nearby Yves Saint Laurent Museum, discovering the vibrant colors, exotic plant life, and artistic legacy that made this oasis one of Marrakech's most beloved cultural treasures.
Depart Marrakech for the breathtaking Ourika Valley and the surrounding Berber villages nestled in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes and glimpses into traditional rural life.
Visit the grave of Rabbi Shlomo Bel Hensh and explore a nearby Berber village, offering a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the layers of Jewish and Berber history that have shaped this region for centuries. Enjoy a traditional tea demonstration and warm hospitality with a local Berber family, learning about customs, daily life, and the central role of mint tea in Moroccan culture and community.
Overnight: Marrakech
After breakfast, we explore the souk and Jemaa el-Fna Square in the light of day, taking in the rhythm and energy of Marrakech as it unfolds. We then depart for the coast, traveling toward Essaouira. Along the way, we visit a women's argan oil cooperative, gaining insight into this important local tradition and industry. We arrive in Essaouira in the late afternoon and gather for dinner together in the evening.
Overnight: Essaouira
After breakfast at the hotel, we begin the day with a visit to the Chaim Pinto Synagogue and the Bayt Dakira Museum, where we will also gather for a learning session that brings the history of the Jewish community in Essaouira into deeper focus. The afternoon is at leisure, time to explore the medina, walk along the ocean, or simply enjoy the slower pace of the coast. Later, we visit an Amazigh village, where we are welcomed for a traditional tea experience and a glimpse into local life.
Overnight: Essaouira
After breakfast, we depart Essaouira and make our way back to Casablanca, traveling along the coast with stops in Safi and Oualidia. The journey offers a final look at Morocco's coastal landscape before returning to the city. In the evening, we gather for a reflection session, followed by a farewell dinner together.
Overnight: Casablanca
After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to the airport for our departures, carrying the journey with us as we head home.
Included
- 11 nights’ accommodation
- Touring in a deluxe air-conditioned coach
- 11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 8 dinners
- All educational programming and entrance fees
- Wireless audio guide system
- Porterage
- Water bottles on the bus
- Tips for local service providers including guides, drivers and wait staff
Not Included
- Air Travel
- Travel Insurance
- Tips for housekeeping
- Personal expenses