TRIP FULL. WAITLIST ONLY.

Go beyond tourism. Connect as a global citizen. Forever change your perspective.

Morocco is rooted in ancient dynasties, layered Berber, Arab, and Andalusian heritage, and shaped by both colonial influence and enduring traditions. It sits at the crossroads of Africa, Europe and the Middle East. The best way to understand beautiful and complex Morocco? Connecting with people.

Join us for 10 days/9 nights in dynamic Morocco. In a true insiders Venture led by Jodi Morris and Siham Lahmine, you connect to the people and future of Morocco beyond tourism. Explore Casablanca and Fes beyond the mosques and markets. Convene with entrepreneurial and educational visionaries. Learn how Morocco's European and Middle Eastern neighbors link to its future.

Scroll below to view the fantastic itinerary.

Jodi Morris leads Venture Travel to connect us to the economic and cultural beat of countries like Morocco. Insider experiences with students, entrepreneurs, and locals help us better understand art, culture, history and the country’s economic and social trajectory. New global connections inspire us with ideas and deepen our global network. We explore as a small, curious-minded community. 

Morocco is at an interesting inflection point, making now the perfect time to visit.

Jodi first visited Morocco in 2024. Following a tourist itinerary, she most enjoyed her time in the mountains, the sand dunes, and quiet corners of Marrakech. While expecting a strict society, she found a culture appreciating differences. It was tradition alongside modernity—a woman wearing a hijab and running a startup; a city filled with artists, surfers, and avant-garde designers with call to prayer echoing in the background.

Upon returning home, she serendipitously found Moroccan connections across her partners in investing, education, the culinary world and LinkedIn—where she met Siham Lahmine, leading to the curation of this Venture.

We begin in the cosmopolitan city of Casablanca and end in Marrakech. Both are easily reached from Europe. We recommend arriving in Europe or Africa a few days early to alleviate jet lag.

To reserve your spot, make a $1500 USD non-refundable trip deposit. You'll receive a confirmation upon receipt of payment. Full payment is due 60 days prior to the start of the trip.

CANCELLATION POLICY

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can occur. For cancellations made more than 60 days prior to the trip, we will gladly reimburse you, less your non-refundable initial trip deposit.  Any cancellations made less than 60 days prior to the trip will incur the full 100% cancellation fee.  We always recommend the purchase of travel insurance, which typically covers trip cancellation fees. For more information, see Terms & Conditions. 

Visas

U.S. citizens who are traveling to Morocco for tourism for less than 90 days are exempt from visa

requirements. Make sure your passport is valid for more than six months. During the arrivals process, it’s helpful to have the name and address of your hotel (Le Casablanca Hotel) on hand.

We highly encourage U.S. travelers to register with the U.S. Government Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and to review the U.S. Department of State Morocco Overview.

Medical Recommendations and Immunization Information

We always recommend that participants visit their doctor at least 4-6 weeks in advance of their departure date for recommendations for travel medications and immunizations. No vaccinations are required for entry to Morocco. For more information on immunizations, please visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. 

Travel Insurance

We recommend participants purchase travel insurance, or ensure their regular health insurance plans cover travel-related illnesses and injuries. Insurance must cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, and evacuation expenses. Note Medicare does not cover international medical expenses. All participants to note health insurance information as part of trip registration. 

Even if you have health insurance covering international travel, we strongly recommend also obtaining coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, curtailment, and personal property. 

We partner with Wanderwell, a Certified B Corp offering coverage and advising for travel insurance plans. Wanderwell makes it simple, offering a few modern, comprehensive trip protection plans designed to cover the most common travel perils related to trip cancellation, trip interruption, trip delay, travel Medical Expenses, baggage & personal effects, Emergency Medical Evacuation, and more.

If you purchase through Wanderwell, at least 1% of your insurance purchase will be given to the 1% for the Planet Impact Fund.

- Group size is limited to 10 to create a community-building experience. 

- All-Inclusive Price Includes costs for 10 days/9 nights lodging, ground transportation, meals & beverages noted on itinerary, excursions and guide/driver tips.

- Health Considerations include regular walking in mild to warm temperatures. For their own safety and comfort, participants should be in good health. 

- To Learn More, contact venture leader Jodi Morris.

Given the custom nature of this Venture, details within the itinerary are subject to change.

Never been to Morocco? Here are some tips. And a little-known U.S.—Morocco connection.

• Money. In major cities (Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Marrakech) credit cards are accepted in hotels, riads, and higher-end restaurants. But cash is essential in souks, taxis, rural areas, and for small purchases. ATMs are widely available (call your bank pre-travel). Euros and USD can sometimes be exchanged easily, but local currency is preferred.

• Currency. Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is approximately $1 USD = 10 MAD (check xe.com for current rates). As a closed currency, exchange dirham within Morocco rather than abroad.

• Tipping. Tipping is customary and appreciated. For restaurants, consider 5–10% when service not included. Tipping is expected by guides & drivers. Also consider small tips for porters, hotel staff, restroom attendants.

• Weather & Climate. March is an ideal time to visit Morocco, though climate varies by region. Spring (March–May) and Fall (Sept–Nov) brings warm days, cool evenings. Summer can be very hot, especially Marrakech and desert regions. Coastal areas are milder year-round. The mountain regions can be cool or cold, especially at night.

• Elevation. Marrakech & Fes: ~1,500 ft (460 m) Atlas Mountains: villages often exceed 6,000–8,000 ft (1,800–2,400 m)

• Electricity / Voltage / Plug Type. 220–240 V / 50 Hz. Plug types are C & E (two round pins). Bring a universal adapter if traveling from the U.S.

• Communications. Check your carrier for international phone and data plans. Purchasing a local SIM card (Maroc Telecom, Orange, Inwi) is easy and affordable. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, riads, and cafes.

• Time Difference. Morocco is on Western European Time GMT +1. This is +5 hours from Eastern Time/+8 hours from Pacific Time during Daylight Savings (begins March 14, 2027).

• Water. Do NOT drink tap water while in Morocco. Bottled water is recommended for drinking and brushing teeth. Bring a reusable water bottle. Water will be provided at riads.

• Population. Morocco has a population of 37 million. More than 65% live in urban areas, with major cities Casablanca (4 million), Rabat (the capital, 2 million), Fes (1.3 million) and Marrakech (800,000).

• Language. Arabic is the official language. French is widely spoken, and English is increasingly spoken, especially among younger generations.

• Religion. Morocco is over 99% Muslim (predominantly Sunni). It's known for its tolerant, moderate Islam and history of Jewish and Christian communities. Visitors of all faiths welcome.

• Government. Morocco is a constitutional monarchy. His Majesty King Mohammed VI has reigned since July 1999. The head of government appointed by the King is Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch (since October 2021).

• Safety. Morocco is generally safe for travelers. Use standard precautions—watch belongings in crowded markets, be cautious with pickpockets, and avoid unlicensed guides. Violent crime against tourists is rare.

• Transportation. Uber is now operating in Casablanca and Marrakech, and will expand to other Moroccan cities. Taxis and private drivers are traditional option for travelers. The Moroccan Train system is excellent and connects major cities.

• Clothing. Modest dress is recommended, especially in rural areas and religious sites (keep shoulders and knees covered). We recommend loose, breathable fabrics and comfortable walking shoes for medinas and uneven streets. Scarves are useful for sun, dust and mosque visits; jacket and sweaters are needed for nights in the desert.

Practical Information

• Visit Morocco

• Lonely Planet Travel Guide – Morocco

• U.S. State Department – Morocco Country Information

• CIA World Factbook – Morocco

Morocco Book & Movie Recommendations

Books

• The Caliph’s House by Tahir Shah (2006). A humorous memoir of living in Casablanca.

• Dreams of Trespass: Tales of a Harem Girlhood by Fatima Mernissi (1995). A girl confronting the mysteries of time, place and gender in the Muslim world.

• A House in Fez by Suzanna Clarke (2008). Tale of a woman who buys and restores a traditional riad in Fes.

• In Arabian Nights: A Caravan of Moroccan Dreams by Tahir Shah (2009). Cultural stories blending myth, faith, and daily life.

• Women Artisans of Morocco: Their Stories, Their Lives by Susan Schaefer Davis (2018). Stories of 25 women practicing Moroccan textile traditions with energy, pride and fortitude.
  

Movies, Documentaries, Blogs

• Casablanca (1942). The iconic film (though mostly studio filmed in Burbank, California)

• 40 Years of Solitude (2014). Documentary exploring the poignant stories of descendants of Moroccan soldiers who fought alongside Ho Chi Minh's forces in Vietnam.

• Ali Zaoua: Prince of the Streets (2000). Moroccan film on street children in Casablanca

• Renew Capital. Follow for stories of the entrepreneurs leading Morocco and Africa's future.

Welcome to Morocco! Take time to relax and overcome your jet lag.

You will be personally greeted at the Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN). Per Moroccan regulations, your driver will wait outside the terminal.

Le Casablanca Hotel serves as our luxurious and convenient base to begin our Moroccan venture. Located in the green residential Anfa district, the hotel's architecture echoes the elegant Art Deco period.

Enjoy the day at your leisure. The peaceful pool and garden help sooth your jet lag. We recommend enjoying a traditional Moroccan hammam or massage at the Jasmin' Spa. Alternatively, venture outside to explore on foot. "Casa" is the most cosmopolitan and Western-feeling city in Morocco. The Corniche seaside promenade is a leisurely walk away.

At sunset, we gather as a group on the Jasmine Terrace to meet each other and our local host, Siham Lahmine, Morocco's first woman‑owned luxury culinary & heritage specialist (more about Siham).

We enjoy our welcome dinner at our hotel's gorgeous French Moroccan restaurant, La Pergola.  We'll tuck in early for the night to get ready for the week's adventures.

Enjoy complimentary breakfast at the hotel. Today will be a contrast between Morocco's past and it's future.

We begin the day at the Hassan II Mosque. Built over the Atlantic Ocean, it''s our introduction to Moroccan architecture—fusing traditional artistry, lace-like marble and colorful mosaic tile work. At 60 stories high, the minaret is considered the tallest in world. It's one of the few mosques to welcome non-Muslim visitors between prayers, allowing us to immerse in Moroccan history and Islamic heritage.

Led by Siham, we continue our Casa explorations.

Breaking to the future, we head to Casablanca Finance City (CFC). Established in 2010, CFC is the economic and financial hub for Morocco. Modeled after Dubai, it's a key part of the King’s vision to be a gateway to Africa.

We meet Grii Nihal of Renew Capital. With Africa as the world's next growth market, Renew is Jodi's investment partner on the continent. Over lunch, Nihal shares her take on the technology and investment landscape in Morocco (Morocco Factsheet). We visit with several local tech companies, including Agenz (the Zillow of Morocco), Hypeo AI (next-gen influencer marketing) and Talaty (AI-driven loans to smaller businesses).

We end our day with one of the best sunset views in Casablanca over dinner at Lucy in the Sky.

Enjoy complimentary breakfast at the hotel. Today we leave Casablanca, ending in the most unexpected fusion—Moroccan and Vietnamese.

Our drive takes us through Rabat. The capital city balances ancient city walls, historic landmarks, and peaceful gardens with a modern, cosmopolitan feel. We check out the riverside old city, enjoy a traditional Rabat green tea. Those who wish can pick up any desired lunch and snacks at Le Marche Dar Essalam.

Morocco is a world leader in renewable energy. To learn more, we visit the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN). Morocco's solar and green energy focus is driven by King Mohammed VI. It aims to have more than half of energy generated by renewables by 2030. MASEN executes the Noor plan—the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex is one of the world's largest.

We leave the capital city for rural landscapes. We reach the Việt Nam Gate, symbolizing a little-known connection between the Vietnamese and Moroccan people. In the 1950s, the French recruited Moroccan soldiers to help them fight in Vietnam during the First Indochina War. Many defected and joined the Viet Minh in their fight for independence. Post-war, they married Vietnamese women and started families. In 1972, the Kingdom of Morocco invited the men and their families to return to Morocco. This article beautifully tells the story.

Douar Sfari is where the first seven Vietnamese families settled in Morocco over 50 years ago. We spend the afternoon and evening in this Vietnamese-Moroccan village. Hakima Rochdi is our host, and teaches us to cook her favorite Vietnamese-Moroccan meal. We spend a unique evening at her homestay, learning more about this little-known history and how it blends into Morocco's future.

We enjoy breakfast at our homestay. Today, we enjoy our second Moroccan fusion—this time with Italy.

Leaving Douar Sfari, we drive through a fertile region of olive groves to reach the former Roman city of Volubilis. Developed during the 3rd century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Volubilis is Morocco's best-preserved archaeological site. Walking through the ruins, we appreciate the stunning mosaics, just as the Romans laid them. We stop for snacks, views and other surprises.

We visit Villa Volubilia, a boutique vineyard located on the outskirts of Meknes. We taste the legacy of Volubilis in every sip, as winemakers draw on viticultural techniques passed down from the Romans and the Berbers. We enjoy a late lunch on the beautiful grounds, and bring a bottle or two home.

From here, it's just over one hour to Fes—the oldest city in Morocco. We check into our hotel Jardin des Biehn, a luxury riad in the heart of the Fes Medina. Relax on your private balcony or by the peaceful pool, enjoy a massage or check out global souvenirs in The Boutique.

Should you wish to enjoy drinks or light dinner on your own, we suggest the onsite Fez Café restaurant.

Enjoy complimentary breakfast in the lush gardens of our riad. Today we take a private culture & artisan tour of the largest car-free urban area in the world—the Fes Medina.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, there are 9,900+ streets within this 1200 year-old walled city. We wander off the beaten track through the narrow-hidden alleyways, souks, a Madrassa, and discover local life. We access to ancient palaces, venture into the depths of the tanneries, observe weavers at their looms, and discover hidden workshops. Siham selects a special place to enjoy a group lunch.

For those interested in shopping, our expert local guide teaches us how to barter like a pro. We see some of the best quality Moroccan rugs, exquisite lanterns, textiles, spice markets, and custom-made leather goods.

We head back to unwind at our beautiful riad. This is a great time to try out a traditional Moroccan hammam or massage.

For those interested in dinner on your own, we suggest woman-owned French Moroccan restaurant Dar Roumana.

Enjoy complimentary breakfast in the lush gardens of our riad.

We leave the walled city and make our way to picturesque Sefrou. Only 30km from Fes, it's a different world. Sefrou functions around its residents more than tourism. We visit a long-time friend of Siham's—Amina Yabis.

In 2000, Amina got the idea to create a female-only cooperative. Sefrou has long been known for its djellaba buttons, first introduced by Jewish residents who taught the craft to Muslim neighbors. Decades later, the women continue to pass it on. The cooperative has allowed them to expand their scope—to products like textiles and to locales beyond Morocco (even Santa Fe!).

After visiting Amina's workshop, we join her at home for a traditional Friday couscous lunch. It's a chance to explore the shifting roles of women in Moroccan society, the roots of local design and pace of fashion trends.

We return to Fes to enjoy a rest at our riad.

Early evening, we return to the Fes Medina one last time to explore Morocco's melting pot—Arab, Moor, Jewish, French, Amazigh (Berber) influences—through food. Our own local foodie Siham leads us on a moving feast. We sample smoky meats, breads, 10 different types of honey, smell spices, eat dates, and drink tea with mint or sheba with some pastries on the side.

Should you wish to enjoy drinks or further bites on your own, we suggest the onsite Fez Café.

Today we wake up early. Enjoy a final complimentary breakfast at our riad and check-out. On our long drive to Marrakech, we have dedicated time to discuss all that we've learned with Siham, and inquire about the differences in urban lifestyles between Casablanca, Fes and Marrakech. Expect stops for snacks, views and other surprises.

Arriving in buzzing Marrakech, we check into Riad Tizwa. Once a quiet corner, it's now perfectly located in the elegant Dar el Bacha in the old town Medina.

Siham leads us on an evening cultural walk. With the Medina's vibrant souks, the food stalls and musicians of Djemaa el-Fna square, and rooftop views, it's the perfect introduction to the tastes and sounds of the "Red City."

Dinner is on your own this evening. We recommend Plus61, an Australian-Moroccan fusion restaurant in Gueliz with gallery-style interiors and great natural wines. Or choose to stay local and enjoy Flowers across the street from our riad. Think elegant contemporary roof top vibe using the best Marrakech ingredients. 

Enjoy a quiet breakfast on our Riad's rooftop. Beyond Jemaa el-Fna square, Marrakech offers a layered richness—design, gardens, and a modern creative pulse.

We taxi to Gueliz to start our day in the cobalt tranquility of the Jardin Majorelle. We explore the interior Berber Museum for a peek into textiles, jewelry, and traditional design. We walk next door to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, an architectural gem devoted to the designer’s life and Marrakech inspirations.

We head back to our riad. From here, the afternoon is on your own. We recommend designing your own Medina adventure.

Only a few minutes away is Dar el Bacha Museum of Confluences—Moroccan and Islamic art housed in one of the city's most beautiful palaces. For lovers of geometry and design, Ben Youssef Madrasa is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. For a stark contrast to the souks, find a magical oasis at The Secret Garden.

If the designing your own fresh salad or pizza sounds appealing, Au p'tit bacha is steps from the riad. Or enjoy authentic Italian dishes at Limonei.

At sunset, we reconvene on our Riad's rooftop for some mint tea and conversation with an expat friend of Siham's. It's a chance to get insights about life in Morocco through a different, but connected lens.

Our final urban dinner is at IZZA. It's seven ancient homes that today is one house of friends, celebrating like-minded freedom seekers and creatives—and it's Jodi's favorite haven in Morocco.

Enjoy a final breakfast in our riad and check-out. Leaving the city, we return to Morocco's innovative future. Coding school 1337 on the Ben Guérir campus of Université Mohammed VI Polytechnique is like nothing you have ever seen—completely free of charge, open 24/7, and accessible to anyone aged 18-30. It's peer-learning—no professors, no classes. The study course is hands-on and project-based. It's a means for young people to define their digital leadership, in sectors that already exist or yet to be invented.

In a country that is mainly semi-arid to desert, we pay a visit to the Water Museum. Opened in 2017, it's the first structure of its kind dedicated to Moroccan, Arab and Muslim hydraulic heritage, highlighting the advances to conserving the resource critical to all humans.

Our last stop is the Agafay Desert. It offers the perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy our last sunset together. Our base is Inara Camp. With lunar-like plateaus and the High Atlas rising beyond, it's a dramatic stage for a luxe overnight glamping experience.

As golden hour drifts into sunset, we enjoy the classic Morocco experience—following a nomadic herder’s route on camelback. Afterward, we relish all the week's traditional flavors over dinner, accompanied by Gnaoua music and dancing flames. It's the perfect time for us to share our reflections on a multi-faceted week.

We retire to our uniquely decorated tents and sleep soundly under the star-filled sky.

Today, our Venture officially ends. You can choose to enjoy an optional Afagay Desert Sunrise Balloon Ride (weather and air traffic dependent, reserved through Siham in advance). Alternatively, simply enjoy a last leisurely breakfast and morning swim in our desert oasis.

We transport back to Marrakech and the Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) at around 11:00am. If you are booking outbound flights, we request that you not book them until 3:00pm or later.

Alternatively, you may choose to continue your stay in Marrakech or travels within Morocco. Siham and Jodi would be happy to share ideas and help coordinate.

Hta men beâd!

Given the unique nature of this trip, the above itinerary is subject to change.