Desert Majesty has designed this tour as a fascinating journey through Morocco’s Jewish heritage, extending from the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert to the Imperial cities. The itinerary includes visits to historical Jewish sites, including ancient Mellahs, synagogues, cemeteries, and the Museum of Moroccan Judaism in Casablanca. Key cultural landmarks are also highlighted, such as Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque and Essaouira’s vibrant Jewish quarter, which played a significant role in Moroccan society.
Travelling through cities like Rabat, Fes, Meknes, and Taroudant reveals Morocco’s deep Jewish history and its enduring legacy. The desert experience features the magic of the Erg Chebbi dunes, a night in a traditional Berber camp, and visits to Kasbahs and Berber villages along the scenic Ziz Valley and Dades Gorges. Insights into Berber culture are further explored through a visit to the historic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou.
The journey concludes in Marrakech, with an exploration of the Jewish Mellah, the Lazama Synagogue, and renowned landmarks such as the Saadian Tombs and Majorelle Gardens. This comprehensive tour offers an in-depth exploration of Morocco’s rich Jewish heritage while highlighting its broader cultural and historical significance.
Morocco Jewish tours – highlights:
- Visiting the Hassan II Mosque, the Museum of Moroccan Judaism and Beth-El synagogue in Casablanca
- Exploring Rabat’s Jewish Mellah, the iconic Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the ancient ruins of the Chellah
- Discovering Fes’ synagogues, Jewish Mellah, vibrant souks, leather tanneries, madrassas, and palaces
- Enjoying a camel ride to a luxury camp in Erg Chebbi, arriving just in time for a breathtaking desert sunset
- Savouring a dinner under a starlit sky, followed by an evening of nomadic music and drumming around a campfire
- Admiring Morocco’s famous Kasbahs, including Ksar Aït Ben Haddou, Telouet, and the beautifully preserved Kasbah Amredhil
- Discovering the Synagogues of Essaouira, including Bet Ha-Knesset Simon Attias, and touring its museum and historic medina
- Exploring Marrakech’s Jewish Mellah and Lazama Synagogue, as well as Djemaa El Fna Square and historical monuments
What is included in this Jewish Morocco Tour:
- Transport in a private air-conditioned 4×4; Toyota Prado Tx or deluxe van and fuel
- Pick-up from and drop-off at your hotel or riad and transfer from and to the airport
- Experienced local English/French/Spanish/Italian-speaking Berber and nomad driver-guide
- Accommodation in air-conditioned rooms/suites with private bathroom
- All meals (except lunches, and dinners in Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Marrakech, Essaouira, and the journeys in between) – with vegetarian and vegan options available
- One night in a luxury camp in Erg Chebbi with a private toilet and shower, lamps, plenty of space, and handcrafted furnishings
- Camel rides of about an hour – an hour & a half with a guide, and free sandboarding, if desired – just ask the camp staff
- Option to go to and return from the camp by 4×4
- Luggage service to the camp and all accommodation
- Berber drumming and music
- Free time to explore sites, for walks, photos, and tea/coffee breaks
- The opportunity to ask the driver to stop when and where you wish
- Entrance fees (except in Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech)
- Sightseeing with local tour guides in Fes and Marrakech
- Local guides in the relevant places
- Tea, coffee and mineral water in the desert
Good to know about Jewish trips in Morocco:
- Guided tours of the Hassan II mosque are limited on Fridays or religious holidays. Please check the schedule here: Hassan II Mosque Tours and Tickets
- You can buy entry tickets at each monument during your guided tour of Marrakech, but Majorelle Garden tickets must be booked online in advance.
- Activities and day trips in Fes or Marrakech can be added to this tour
- Please note that Kosher food is available only in the main cities of Morocco, such as Casablanca, Marrakech, Fes and Rabat
- If you desire a shorter tour devoted to Jewish heritage in Morocco, please visit Jewish Heritage Tour in Morocco 8 days
- You can tailor this Jewish Heritage tour in Morocco to fit your individual points of interest
- You can always consult your driver about skipping some places to spend more time elsewhere
- You can ask us if others are interested in sharing the tour, or in the case of an early booking, let us know that you are interested in this yourselves
- Here is a downloadable packing list to help plan for your Moroccan desert tour
- We require a 30% deposit of the total price to book the car, while the balance is payable to us in the office in Ouarzazate
- There is a 25% reduction for children under 12 years old, whilst we do not charge children under 5
- These prices are liable to fluctuation according to the current exchange rate
- Our prices can be subject to an increase over the busy season, and, in particular, the Christmas and New Year’s Eve period
Jewish tours of Morocco – itinerary:
1st day: Airport Transfer
Upon your arrival at Casablanca airport, our driver will greet you and transfer you to the city, passing through the scenic Moroccan countryside in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Welcome to Morocco!
After checking in and settling into your hotel, you may wish to visit the Hassan II Mosque, inaugurated in 1993. Built in celebration of King Hassan II’s 60th birthday, it is the second-largest religious building in Africa and features the world’s second-highest minaret. On Fridays and religious holidays, visits are restricted to specific times. Due to its popularity, there may be queues at the ticket office. The tour of this magnificent mosque lasts around an hour, with tickets priced at approximately 120 dirhams (subject to change).
In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of Casablanca’s kosher restaurants. You’ll spend the night in a hotel or riad.
2nd day: Casablanca – Rabat
Casablanca is home to over 20 synagogues and a vibrant Jewish heritage. This tour includes visits to key sites, such as the renowned Temple Beth-El, the Jewish Mellah, the Jewish Cemetery, and the Museum of Moroccan Judaism.
The tour begins at Temple Beth-El, Casablanca’s most famous synagogue, known for its stunning stained glass windows, biblical inscriptions, and grand chandeliers. It serves as a central gathering place for over 5,000 Jews.
Next, the Mellah, Casablanca’s Jewish quarter, reveals its character, where kosher butchers still operate. The nearby Jewish Cemetery features well-preserved markers and the tomb of the Jewish saint, Eliahou.
After lunch, a visit to the Museum of Moroccan Judaism in the Oasis neighbourhood of Casablanca is included. Established in 1997, it is the first and only museum devoted to Judaism in the Arab world. The building, which originated in 1948 as a Jewish orphanage that housed up to 160 Jewish youth, underwent renovation in 2013.
Later on, an hour’s drive along the motorway leads to Rabat, where accommodation for the night is arranged in a beautiful riad.
3rd day: Rabat – Fes
After breakfast at the riad, the day starts with a visit to the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, built in honour of the late king who passed away in 1961. His son, Hassan II, who died in 1999, is also entombed here. The mausoleum features stunning tilework, with each piece meticulously hand-cut and placed, while the guards’ uniforms enhance the grandeur.
Next, the Jewish Mellah of Rabat is explored, with its narrow alleyways now home to only a few remaining Jewish families. From here, a visit to the Necropolis of Chellah provides insights into its connections to Jewish history.
After lunch, the journey continues to Meknes for a brief Jewish Heritage Tour of this Imperial City. The Jewish Quarter, with its narrow streets and vibrant courtyards, showcases Jewish history evident in the Hebraic epitaphs from the Christian era, alongside Greek inscriptions found at the Meknes Zaouia, where the tomb of Rabbi David Benmidan resides.
The day concludes with an overnight stay in a beautiful riad.
4th day: Fes Sightseeing, Fes Guided Jewish Heritage Tour
Fes, one of Morocco’s Imperial Cities, holds a rich medieval Jewish history and was once home to the renowned Talmudic scholar, Rabbi Isaac Alfasi. Jewish travellers can immerse themselves in this unique heritage through visits to synagogues, medieval universities, cemeteries, the Mellah (Jewish quarter), and historic gardens and palaces, each reflecting Fes’s lasting cultural importance.
You can visit the following monuments and sites of interest, according to your preference:
Mellah Quarter :Over 650 years old, this Jewish quarter stands as a testament to the city’s Jewish heritage. Once home to more than 40 synagogues, the Mellah, located adjacent to the Royal Palace, showcases the deep historical ties between Jewish life and Moroccan history.
Ibn Danan Synagogue : One of Morocco’s oldest and best-preserved synagogues, Ibn Danan offers a unique glimpse into the once-thriving Jewish community of Fes. Its architecture and design reflect the vibrant religious history of the city.
Jewish Cemetery : Situated near the Mellah, this cemetery is the final resting place of many Jewish saints, including the revered Saint Solica. It remains a profoundly meaningful site, preserving centuries of Jewish presence and tradition.
Fes Medina : The UNESCO-listed Medina is a labyrinth of medieval streets, bustling souks, and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore its ancient mosques, lively markets, and the city’s role as a cultural crossroads.
Leather Tanneries: Famous for its age-old leather production, Fes offers the chance to observe traditional tanning methods still in practice today, showcasing the city’s long-standing craftsmanship.
Local Markets : Fes’s markets are filled with a rich variety of goods, including spices, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, and leather products, reflecting the cultural diversity of Morocco.
Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts : Housed in a beautifully restored caravanserai, this museum celebrates the intricate wooden craftsmanship that has been a hallmark of Fes for generations.
The day concludes with your guide escorting you back to your riad.
5th day: Fes Guided Excursion to Jewish Seffrou – Merzouga
After breakfast at your riad, the journey to the Sahara Desert begins, passing through Seffrou, a historic Jewish town. On the way, Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its European architecture, cedar forests, and winter snowfall, is encountered. In Ifrane, synagogues and cemeteries, which have served as sites of Jewish pilgrimage for centuries, are visited.
A stop is made at Bhalil cemetery before exploring Seffrou’s Mellah, where Jews once comprised a significant part of the population. The white-walled medina still reflects Jewish influence, with its distinct wooden balconies. Seffrou stands as a symbol of harmonious Muslim-Jewish coexistence, showcasing Morocco’s interfaith heritage.
Near Azrou, Barbary apes can be seen in the oak and cedar forests of the Middle Atlas. From here, the drive continues south over the Middle Atlas Mountains to Midelt, at 1508 metres, often referred to as “the apple capital” of Morocco. It lies at the foot of Ayachi Mountain and serves as a stop for lunch.
Continuing south, the route takes the Tizi-n-Talghemt pass, known as the “she-camel” pass. The descent through the Ziz Valley reveals its famous palm trees and the length of its oasis. Numerous “Ksars,” small villages of individual houses often surrounded by intact walls, line the road.
Next, the mining town of Er Rachidia is reached, followed by Erfoud, renowned for its date festival and fossils. It is fascinating to observe how these millions of fossils have been transformed into artefacts, making the shops worth visiting. There is no obligation to purchase anything.
After that, the journey continues to Rissani and finally to the famous red Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga. A camel ride lasting between one to one and a half hours is taken, either setting out from the camp or heading to it. Alternatively, there is the option of taking a 4×4 to the luxury desert camp.
Back at the camp, dinner is served, followed by an evening of music and an overnight stay in a private, comfortable tent, equipped in style.
6th day: Merzouga – Ouarzazate
If you rise early, witnessing the breathtaking sunrise is possible as the colours of the dunes shift and the shadows create a stunning display. After breakfast at the camp, the journey towards Tinghir begins. En route, the “khettarat” water channels are passed, with an opportunity to descend and admire the ingenious architecture of this irrigation system, designed to prevent evaporation in the summer heat.
The journey continues to the Dades Valley, with a stop to explore the Dades Gorges and enjoy a short walk after lunch. In the Valley of the Roses, renowned for its Damascene Rose Festival in May, cooperatives in Kelaat Mgouna produce fragrant organic cosmetics.
Next, in Skoura’s oasis, Kasbah Amredhil is visited, which is a beautifully restored example of multi-generational Berber living. Made entirely from adobe, the kasbah offers a glimpse into traditional life, with its thick walls providing warmth in winter and coolness in summer. Following this insightful visit, arrival in Ouarzazate is expected, where a guest house stay is planned for the night.
7th day: Ouarzazate – Taroudant
After breakfast, a short 30-minute drive leads to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest, most famous kasbah in Morocco. A local guide provides insights during the visit, sharing the rich and fascinating history of this iconic site.
The journey continues west to Taznakht, renowned for its Berber rugs, where there is an opportunity to observe the ancient art of Berber rug and carpet making. This stop also includes lunch. As the journey progresses, the scenic Tizi-n-Ikhsane and Tizi-n-Tighatine passes are crossed before arriving in Taliouine, the heart of Morocco’s saffron cultivation. Here, a visit to a small government-run museum dedicated to saffron horticulture is possible.
The day concludes in Taroudant, where dinner and an overnight stay in a charming, authentic riad are planned.
8th day: Taroudant – Essaouira
In the morning, there is an opportunity to explore Taroudant, often referred to as “the little Marrakech” due to its impressive ramparts and bustling local markets. Known for its craftsmanship, the town is famous for jewellery and Berber rugs. Unlike Marrakech, Taroudant’s ancient walls remain fully intact.
The town’s Jewish community has played a significant role in its history, and a visit to the Jewish Mellah and cemetery reveals the burial site of the revered Saint David Ben Baruk Cohen Azog. A highlight of the visit is the rare chance to see one of the only adobe synagogues in the world, located in Azran. This 700-year-old synagogue features Hebrew prayers painted on its walls and an ark with Berber inscriptions.
Afterwards, the journey through the Souss River Valley continues, passing thousands of argan trees, as well as banana and orange plantations. Following lunch in Agadir, the journey progresses north along the coast through Taghazout, a renowned surfer’s paradise, offering stunning views of the Anti-Atlas Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.
Upon arrival in Essaouira, your driver will escort you to your riad, providing time to settle in and relax. In the evening, the charming atmosphere of one of the cosy cafés in the town centre can be enjoyed.
9th day: Essaouira Jewish Heritage Sightseeing
Essaouira is a coastal town known for its Portuguese and Jewish heritage, as well as its iconic blue boats, whitewashed houses, fresh seafood, and the renowned Gnawa music festival.
After breakfast at your riad, there is an opportunity to explore the medina’s vibrant, windy alleyways and photograph its impressive fortifications. Local shops offering leather and metal goods can be visited, allowing for the chance to capture artisans at work. Later, the lively seaport can be explored to see the famous blue boats and select freshly caught fish for a delicious lunch prepared on the spot.
In the afternoon, a guided Jewish heritage tour of Essaouira is available. The Jewish quarter, established in the 18th century, once housed up to 40% of the town’s population and had over 25 synagogues, though only a few remain today. The recently restored Simon Attias Synagogue can be discovered, which also includes a Jewish museum and a cultural centre named after historian Haim Zafrani, dedicated to preserving Moroccan Jewish heritage and celebrating Essaouira’s identity.
The Jewish cemeteries can be visited, where notable figures such as Rabbi Haim Pinto, whose mausoleum is the focus of an annual hilloula, are buried. The second cemetery, opened in the 18th century to accommodate the growing Jewish population, serves as the resting place for many rabbis, intellectuals, musicians, and other prominent members of the Jewish community.
An overnight stay is arranged in a charming riad in the heart of Essaouira.
10th day: Essaouira – Marrakech – Free Half a day in Marrakech
After breakfast, the Jewish Morocco tour continues with a drive to Marrakech. Along the way, numerous Berber villages can be seen, and there may be a stop at an argan cooperative, where higher-quality argan products than those available outside Morocco can be found. This presents a good opportunity to purchase argan oil products if desired. There is also the possibility of witnessing the rare sight of goats climbing the argan trees to munch on the leaves and argan nuts.
Upon arriving in Marrakech, the afternoon offers time to explore the old medina and wander through the vibrant, colourful souks. Alternatively, relaxing with a traditional glass of Moroccan mint tea on a rooftop terrace overlooking Djemaa El Fna is an option. Dinner is arranged at one of Marrakech’s beautiful kosher restaurants.
11th day: Marrakech Sightseeing Tour – Jewish Tour Guide in Morocco, Marrakech
Marrakech, one of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities, is also one of the world’s most renowned and popular travel destinations. On this Jewish Heritage tour of Marrakech, you will explore the Jewish Mellah, visit the Lazama Synagogue, and discover some of the city’s most fascinating sights.
Depending on your time and preferences, the following attractions can be included:
Jewish Mellah: You can begin your tour in the Jewish Mellah, founded in 1558. Although the Jewish community once enjoyed autonomy, they were restricted from owning property outside the Mellah. Today, only around 250 Jews remain in Marrakech. The recently restored Mellah is well worth exploring, with its bustling souks and historic streets. You may also visit
Bet-El Synagogue, one of the key gathering places for Marrakech’s Jewish community.
El Bahia Palace: Built between 1894 and 1900 for Grand Vizier Ahmed Ibn Moussa, this grand palace features 160 rooms arranged around beautifully designed courtyards. Marvel at the intricate stucco panels, zellij tilework, marble floors, carved cedar ceilings, and elegant finishes, all set within lush gardens covering eight hectares.
Ben Youssef Medersa: Originally founded in 1331 and later rebuilt by the Saadians in the 1560s, this former Quranic school once housed 800 students. Its stunning architecture showcases detailed zellij tiling, intricate stucco plasterwork, and elaborately carved cedar wood.
The Majorelle Gardens: Designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent, these peaceful gardens feature exotic plants, serene ponds, and the famous “Majorelle blue” decor. The gardens also host a small Berber museum, a café, and a restaurant offering Moroccan-inspired cuisine.
12th day: Airport Transfer
Your driver will transfer you to the airport to catch your flight on time, marking the end of your Morocco Jewish tour. This day will be planned depending on the flight’s timing and bringing your wonderful Jewish tours or Morocco adventure to a close.
With so many great places to visit in Northern Morocco, for art lovers and artists, Asilah is a must-see. Located on the Atlantic Coast, this small city is peaceful, relaxing, and picturesque. It is also filled with breathtaking murals on most of the public walls of the Medina. Most of the murals are planned and painted during the International Cultural Festival – a yearly event that takes place every July or August.
Another one of the best places to visit in Northern Morocco is the city of Tetouan. One of the two major ports on the Mediterranean Sea, Tetouan is located a little over an hour from Tangier. This city is filled with charm, beauty and many dazzling examples of Moroccan architecture. Tetouan is a city rich with history, as well.
Tangier is one of the two major Moroccan port cities. Located just across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain, Tangier is a popular weekend destination for Morocco tours from Spain. The Spanish influence can be seen all around the city – from restaurants featuring delicious Spanish cuisine to Spanish-style architecture.
No matter where else you visit in the far north of Morocco, do your best to save a day for Chefchaouen. Known as the “Blue City” due to its blue-washed walls and streets, this small village is famous for its beauty. It is a popular destination for photographers looking for the perfect picture, and tourists seeking serenity.