If we only take one excursion during our cruise, this should be it!

The ancient city of Marrakech, which was founded in 1062, is located where the Atlas Mountains meet the Sahara. The name Marrakech itself conjures up visions of colourful markets bustling with people, fortune-tellers, street acrobats and peddlers. They are all here, surrounded by reddish-brown walls, palm trees and the high mountains towering through the haze. Marrakech remains one of the truly magical and exotic places left in the world.

Departing the quayside, we begin our tour with an approximate 3½-hour drive to Marrakech. En route, we shall stop at the Menara Gardens, which were established in the 12th century. The gardens are planted with palms and olives surrounding an artificial lake. Upon arrival in Marrakech, we can enjoy guided visits to the Saadian tombs, the burial place for members of the Saadi imperial family, and the Bahia Palace, built towards the end of the 19th century, with rooms decorated with paintings, mosaics and coloured cedar wood roofs.

We will also visit the famous Djemaa el Fna Market and other main sights in Marrakech, and can enjoy a special Moroccan lunch with a folkloric show, with typical music and dances from the region. Following our visit to we re-board our tour coach for the return journey back to our awaiting ship.

TOUR NOTES: This tour is not for the faint-hearted or for those with limited mobility. It is a long drive (approximately 3½ hours each way), even with a comfort stop in each direction, and Marrakech is heaving with people. The walk through the market will be a very crowded experience over uneven ground, and you will be hassled by shopkeepers pressing you to purchase their wares. However the effort is well worth it for the sheer magic of being in this legendary city. There is approximately 2½ hours of walking on this tour, and some steps will be encountered. A certain walking pace will be required in order to ensure full enjoyment of this tour. Unfortunately it is not suitable for wheelchair users, and passengers will not be able to remain on the tour coach at each of the stops. For reference, toilet facilities are available at Bahia Palace.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2009 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES