Hi, I'm Dina Wise, an artist from the DC area that loves doodling live on location in travel sketchbooks! Let's explore the world and make art together!
Pencil shifts on paper, the call to prayer drifting over ancient rooftops, and a swirl of blue alleyways that look like they were conjured from a dream. This is not just a trip; it’s a living gallery where every moment is a brushstroke on your own masterpiece. Morocco’s medinas, mountains, and markets become your studio, your stage, and your inspiration. Whether you’re a seeker of art, a lover of legends, or just hungry for the thrill of the unknown, this adventure invites you to create, explore, and lose yourself in the pulse of North Africa’s most creative corners. Plus, Dina will offer each participant a custom live-drawn portrait of themselves to remember this journey by! For the bold, the curious, and the endlessly imaginative, Morocco is waiting — sketchbook wide open.
Creative currents and ancient echoes
Welcome to Morocco! Your journey begins in Casablanca, where the coastal vibe hums with energy and artistry. After touching down, the group heads straight into the heart of the city to gather art supplies at a bustling local market — a feast of color and inspiration for creative souls.
The adventure continues with a panoramic tour of the city. You'll see sites such as the Hassan II Mosque, the coastal area of Corniche, and various local neighborhoods.
The day closes with a welcome dinner, setting the tone for a week of immersive exploration.
Discover Casablanca
Start your day with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a guided tour of the iconic Hassan II Mosque, renowned for its impressive architecture and seaside setting. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the vibrant Old Medina and the lively Corniche area, where you can shop, sample traditional foods, and enjoy ocean views.
The day winds down with a return to the hotel and a free evening to unwind at your own pace, whether you choose to rest, sketch, or further explore the city at your leisure.
Journey to Fes
After a traditional breakfast, the group journeys to Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and artistic heart. Upon arrival, plunge into the Old Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its maze-like alleys and vibrant souks. Here, creativity isn’t just seen — it’s smelled and heard, especially at the historic tanneries. These ancient “Dar Dbagh” have shaped Fes’s identity for centuries, their honeycomb vats bursting with earthy and jewel-toned dyes, and their techniques passed down through generations. Witness artisans at work, transforming raw hides into the world’s finest leather — a true testament to Moroccan craftsmanship.
A free day in Fes
Today is yours to explore Fes at your own pace. Lose yourself in the medina’s winding lanes, where every turn reveals hidden courtyards, mosaic-tiled fountains, and workshops crafting everything from intricate ceramics to hand-bound books. The city’s creative pulse is palpable — artists, poets, and musicians have long found inspiration in Fes’s blend of tradition and innovation. Whether you choose to visit a madrasa, seek out a rooftop view, or simply sketch the lively street scenes, the city offers endless opportunities for personal discovery.
Tangier: Legends and light on the edge of Africa
After breakfast, the journey continues north to the storied city of Tangier. Begin your exploration by gazing out from Cape Spartel, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean in a dramatic clash of waves and wind. Delve into the mythic Hercules Cave, a place steeped in legend — said to be where Hercules rested after parting the continents, and inhabited by Neolithic people thousands of years ago. The Old Medina of Tangier, with its whitewashed walls and bohemian flair, has inspired generations of artists and writers.
Absorb the creative energy before enjoying a free evening to explore Tangier’s vibrant nightlife or seaside promenades.
50 shades of blue in Chefchaouen
Today’s excursion takes you to Chefchaouen, the famed “Blue Pearl” of Morocco nestled in the Rif Mountains. The medina’s blue-washed walls — rooted in Jewish tradition and practical wisdom — create a dreamlike atmosphere that feels both tranquil and surreal. Wander through narrow lanes adorned with vibrant doors and potted plants, browse local markets for handmade crafts, and take in panoramic views of the mountains. The city’s blend of Berber, Andalusian, and Jewish influences makes it a living work of art, perfect for painters, photographers, and dreamers alike.
When the sun sets, we’ll head back to the coastline.
Tangier, your pace
Enjoy a free day in Tangier, a city that has long served as a crossroads for cultures and creatives. Stroll along the corniche, visit contemporary art galleries, or relax in a café once frequented by literary icons. Whether you’re sketching the bustling port or soaking up the city’s cosmopolitan vibe, Tangier invites you to craft your own story.
Back to where it all began
Return to Casablanca, where a free day awaits. Explore the elegant Art Deco district, relax at a seaside café along the Corniche, or delve into the city’s cultural scene with a visit to a local gallery or museum. For those interested in shopping, Casablanca offers a mix of traditional souks and modern boutiques.
Close out your final night with one last group meal, savoring the flavors you've come to love.
Until the next adventure
After breakfast, bid farewell to Morocco as you transfer to the airport, carrying home memories, sketches, and stories from a journey painted in color, creativity, and wonder. Safe travels - until we meet again!
