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Midwifery in Morocco

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Tour leader
Patti Paine
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Dates
21 Jun
2 Jul
2026

Explore Morocco through the lens of maternal health on this specially curated tour that highlights the rich blend of tradition and modernity that defines Moroccan midwifery today. From the bustling streets of Casablanca to the serenity of Bin El Ouidane, the imperial grandeur of Meknes and Fes and the cultural heart of Marrakesh, this journey offers a unique opportunity to witness the country’s diverse approaches to childbirth and women's healthcare.

Visit hospitals, birthing centres and training institutes. Meet with midwives, a traditional birthing attendant, an herbalist, and community maternal care advocates. Discuss traditional birthing rituals and explore how midwifery is practiced across Morocco’s urban centres and villages.

Over the past five decades, midwifery in Morocco has evolved significantly, shaped by demographic changes, health reforms, and global health initiatives. In the 1970s, much of Morocco's maternal care relied heavily on traditional birth attendants (known locally as "quablas"), especially in rural areas where access to formal healthcare was limited.

Today, midwives in Morocco are vital frontline health workers, providing not only delivery services but also prenatal, postnatal, and family planning support. The sector continues to face challenges such as uneven access in rural regions, shortages of skilled personnel, and the need for continued investment in education and infrastructure.

This tour is a journey through Morocco’s medical landscape and cultural heart. Along the way, you’ll sip tea with Berber families, marvel at ancient architecture, and soak in the sounds, scents, and sights of the medinas and mountains.

It has been designed in conjunction with the 34th ICM Triennial Congress which will be taking place before on the 14–18 June 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal. You can find out more about the ICM event here.

Price (sharing a room)
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Price (room to yourself)
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Reference:
MOR0626-1
At a glance
What you need to know
Type of tour
Professional
Profession
Midwifery
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Nights
11
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Countries
1
Tour grade
Active
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Remaining places
0
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Dates and places

Itinerary at a glance

1
Casablanca
Sunday
,
21
June
Arrive in Casablanca and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel.
2
Casablanca
Monday
,
22
June
Discover Casablanca on a private guided tour, including a visit to the iconic Hassan II Mosque. Visit a private clinic in Casablanca. Gain insights into how Morocco’s private sector complements the public health system. Meet with the president of the Moroccan Association of Midwives (AMSF), Touria Harrizi.
3
Casablanca / Rabat / Meknes
Tuesday
,
23
June
Travel to Rabat and meet members of the Moroccan Association of Midwives. Attend a special talk on Moroccan birthing rituals and connect with local midwives. Visit a large university hospital. Explore key city sites before continuing to the imperial city of Meknes - the ‘Versailles of Morocco’.
4
Meknes
Wednesday
,
24
June
At leisure to explore Meknes’ historic quarters and bustling souks. Visit a mother and child unit within a public hospital and learn about maternal healthcare within a Moroccan public hospital setting. Tour a local birthing centre. Learn about the important role regional birthing centres play in Morocco, offering safe, accessible delivery services for women in their own communities.
5
Meknes
Thursday
,
25
June
Visit the imperial city of Fes and explore with a local guide. Fes is the oldest and largest medieval city in the world. Continue to charming Bhalil, a traditional Berber village nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains. Known for its colourful houses and unique cave dwellings still inhabited today, Bhalil offers a glimpse into authentic rural Moroccan life. Return to Meknes.
6
Meknes / Ifrane / Beni Mellal / Bin El Ouidane
Friday
,
26
June
Depart from Meknes and journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains toward the Swiss-like town of Ifrane. Continue through cedar forests and Berber villages, passing Azrou and Khenifra. Arrive in Beni Mellal, a city nestled at the foot of the mountains and surrounded by orchards and olive groves. Arrive at the peaceful Bin El Ouidane Lake, with its turquoise waters and beautiful mountain setting.
7
Bin El Ouidane Lake
Saturday
,
27
June
Board a small boat and glide across the turquoise lake, surrounded by dramatic rocky gorges. Later, visit the home of a welcoming local family, where you’ll enjoy a traditional cup of Moroccan tea while listening to their stories and way of life. Savour a delicious, home-cooked lunch before returning to your hotel. At leisure.
8
Ben El Ouidane / Marrakesh
Sunday
,
28
June
Drive back to Marrakesh through the scenic landscapes of the High Atlas, with a short stop in the town of Azilal. Continue to the majestic Ouzoud Falls, one of Morocco's most iconic natural sites, and perhaps spot a few Barbary macaques along the way. Continue to Marrakesh, arriving in the early evening.
9
Marrakesh
Monday
,
29
June
Guided city tour of Marrakesh, including Koutoubia Mosque, the Jewish quarter and Bahia Place, amidst winding streets that open onto lush gardens and bustling souks. The focal point is the central square, exhilarating Djemaa el Fna. Optional hamman and henna tattoo. Optional cooking class.
10
Marrakesh and Ourika Valley
Tuesday
,
30
June
Visit the midwifery training institute of Marrakesh. Discuss the structure and standards of Morocco’s midwifery curriculum and learn how training programs are increasingly incorporating social accountability. Drive to beautiful Ourika Valley and learn how to make a Berber rug in a local women's carpet cooperative. Visit an argan oil cooperative. Drive back to Marrakesh.
11
Marrakesh
Wednesday
,
1
July
Visit the Majorelle Gardens and Yves Saint Laurent Museum, a beautiful haven of greenery and colour that was taken over in the 1980's by the fashion designer Yves Saint-Laurent. Visit a traditional birthing attendant and later meet with an herbalist to learn about Moroccan remedies used during pregnancy. Farewell dinner.
12
Marrakesh
Thursday
,
2
July
Depart hotel after breakfast or join the optional extension to Essaouira on the Atlantic coast.
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Tour map

Plot your journey

Travel through Morocco's iconic cities and through the scenic landscapes of the High Atlas.

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What to expect

Tour highlights

Exploring the Medinas of Fes and Marrakech
Fes and Marrakech

Enter through the old city gates and wander the walled network of bustling streets, enjoy the crowded vibrant atmosphere of the souks.

Exploring the gardens of Marrakech
Le Jardin Secret, Marrakech

Discover the technicolour botanical gardens hidden within Marrakech's red walls.

Taking part in cookery, hammams and craft demonstrations
Medieval tanneries, Fes

Delve deep into Morocco's cultural heritage with classes and visits lead by experts.

Visiting Berber Villages
Atlas Mountains

Travel through cedar forests and Berber villages, passing Azrou and Khenifra and arrive in Beni Mellal.

Boat ride across Bin El Ouidane Lake
Bin El Ouidane

Board a small boat and glide across the turquoise lake, surrounded by dramatic rocky gorges.

Meeting local midwives
Maristan Sidi Frej

Meet with local midwives in a range of healthcare settings.

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Beautiful landscapes

Tour gallery

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Tour exertion grading

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Active
Level 4

Longer and fuller days. More walking and longer distances require more energy, good fitness, and mobility.

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If you have some questions about this particular tour, you can contact the Jon Baines Tours team by phone or email.

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