Morocco: Advanced Photography Workshop

Arrive into Mohammed V Casablanca International Airport (CMN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Begin the journey with a short drive to Rabat, the political capital of Morocco along the Atlantic Coast. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Explore the old medina and visit the Mohammed V Mausoleum for a sunset photoshoot before dining on a dhow (traditional boat) along the corniche.

Wake up and head to the blue-washed medina of Chefchaouen. Divide into small groups to explore and photograph the bright blue and dark navy walls contrasted against the bright colors of scarves, carpets, and tapestries. Catch a beautiful sunset before enjoying a delicious tagine dinner.

After a morning photo expedition and hike to Akchour Waterfall, the group will reconvene for an afternoon discussion and photo lesson., checking out the shots you’ve taken throughout the day and sharing stories about what you’ve learned. In the evening, after a delicious dinner, the group will have time to further explore the medina in small groups.

Depart for the old medina of Fez, the largest city in the world without cars and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stop by the ancient Roman city of Volubilis to capture the diverse history of Morocco as a Roman province. After an afternoon photo lesson, hike up to the Merenid Tombs overlooking the medina for a beautiful sunset. Witness the call to prayer breaking the daily fast and listen for the subtle, collective sigh of relief amongst the locals sitting down to their first meals of the day. Conclude the day with an evening photo workshop and mid-trip discussion where you will begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far.

Walk through Fez, visiting important sites including the Bou Inania Madrasa, al-Karaouine, the honey souqs, the tanneries, spice shops, and more. After lunch at the unique Café Clock, participate in guided team building activities, compete in a photo scavenger hunt, and practice your language skills with locals. Enjoy the sunset and listen for the call to prayer that quiets the bustling medina.

Travel back to Casablanca, where you will have a final photography critique session. Visit the intricate Hassan II Mosque- Africa’s largest mosque and the only one open to non-Muslims in Morocco. Dine in a 17th-century Portuguese castle and enjoy Moroccans’ favorite dishes.

At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home.

After final group photos and goodbyes, your Program Leaders will take you to Mohammed V Casablanca International Airport (CMN) for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.