Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Salé!

Kasbah of the Udayas (Casbah des Oudaïas)

Why Visit?

Kasbah of the Udayas Wheelchair-Friendly Tour Itinerary

Welcome to the Kasbah of the Udayas! This picturesque fortress offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history and culture, featuring panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean and Bouregreg River. The area is well-equipped to cater to wheelchair users, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Getting There

Our tour starts at the entrance of the Kasbah, easily accessible via Avenue Mohammed V. The road is well-paved and suitable for wheelchairs and scooters. Parking spaces are available close to the entrance for those arriving by car.

Exploring the Kasbah

1. Main Gate (Bab Oudaïa): This majestic gate is an architectural marvel. Its accessibility allows you to appreciate the intricate carvings up close.

2. Rue Jamaa: Paved and flat, this main street inside the Kasbah is lined with charming blue and white houses. The street is spacious enough for easy navigation in a wheelchair.

3. Andalusian Gardens: These serene gardens are a must-see. Modified paths and ramps ensure wheelchair accessibility. The fragrant scents of orange trees and blooming flowers provide a sensory delight.

4. Museum of Oudaïa: This small museum, housed in a former palace, displays Moroccan art and artifacts. It has adapted access for wheelchair users to explore without hassle.

5. Terrace with a View: Finish your tour at the terrace overlooking the river and the ocean. The viewing area is accessible, offering breathtaking views that make a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.

Interesting Facts

- The Kasbah was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its historical significance and unique architecture.

- It has been fortified since the reign of the Almohads in the 12th century.

Practical Tips

- Best visiting hours are in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

- Cafés nearby offer refreshing Moroccan mint tea – most have accessible entrances.

Enjoy your visit to the Kasbah of the Udayas, a journey through history, culture, and stunning views, all accessible on wheels!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Mausoleum of Mohammed V (Mausolée de Mohammed V)

Why Visit?

Engage in History and Majesty: Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Mausoleum of Mohammed V

Morning: Arrival in Rabat

Start your day by arriving in the enchanting city of Rabat. For those driving, parking is conveniently accessible near the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Alternatively, Rabat is well-serviced by trains and buses, and taxis in Rabat are typically wheelchair-friendly. Plan to arrive at the site by 10 AM to enjoy a cooler morning stroll.

Morning: Explore Mausoleum of Mohammed V

The Mausoleum of Mohammed V, located in the heart of the Moroccan capital, is a marvel of modern Alaouite dynasty architecture, set against the historic backdrop of the Hassan Tower. This serene site, where Morocco"s beloved king and his two sons, King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah, are laid to rest, is fully accessible. Wheelchair users and those on mobile scooters can freely explore thanks to the smooth marble floors and ramps provided throughout the site.

Upon arrival, soak in the breathtaking beauty of the traditional Moroccan tile work, intricate carvings, and the grandeur of the golden ceiling. Accessibility is thoughtfully integrated, ensuring that every visitor experiences the grandeur and peaceful ambiance of the mausoleum.

Interesting Fact: The Mausoleum guards, known for their striking traditional attire, change every hour in a ceremony that is a visual treat.

Lunch: Local Cuisine

For lunch, visit one of the nearby restaurants offering traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagine and couscous. Many restaurants are accessible, with staff ready to assist in making your meal comfortable and enjoyable.

Afternoon: Stroll by the Bou Regreg River

Post-lunch, take a gentle stroll or roll alongside the nearby Bou Regreg River. The pathways are wheelchair-friendly, offering lovely views of Rabat"s skyline and the Kasbah of the Udayas.

Departure

Conclude your visit by late afternoon, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the rich history and architectural beauty you"ve experienced, all accessible and welcoming.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Hassan Tower (Tour Hassan)

Why Visit?

Discover the majestic Hassan Tower (Tour Hassan) in Rabat, a fascinating wheelchair-accessible destination that offers a glimpse into Morocco"s rich history. This incomplete yet striking minaret of what was intended to be the world"s largest mosque is a testament to the ambition of the 12th-century Almohad ruler, Yacoub al-Mansour. Today, it stands as an iconic remnant surrounded by remnants of columns and the serene Mausoleum of Mohammed V.

### Getting There:

Rabat is well-connected by road and rail. Visitors using wheelchairs or on mobile scooters will find trains and buses equipped with accessible facilities from major cities like Casablanca and Marrakech to Rabat. Once in Rabat, adapted taxis and public buses are available to reach the Hassan Tower. The site itself is located in the heart of the city, making it convenient and easy to access.

### What to Do:

Begin your visit at the spacious plaza surrounding Hassan Tower. The area is predominantly flat and paved, providing smooth navigation for wheelchairs and scooters. Marvel at the 44-meter-high tower, which, despite being unfinished, displays intricate Islamic geometric patterns and Kufic script that draw the eyes upward.

Adjacent to the tower, visit the beautifully maintained Mausoleum of Mohammed V. This site is accessible, with ramps leading into the mausoleum where you can see the ornate tomb of King Mohammed V and his sons. The guards in traditional Moroccan attire, changing hourly, add to the solemn and respectful atmosphere.

### Tips:

1. Visit Early: Mornings are less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.

2. Guided Tours: Opt for a guided tour that can accommodate special needs to enrich your understanding of the site"s history and architecture.

3. Rest and Refresh: There are several cafes and rest areas nearby that are accessible, perfect for a break to soak in the surroundings.

### Interesting Fact:

Despite its unfinished state, the Hassan Tower was designed to showcase the grandeur of Yacoub al-Mansour’s reign. The columns around it hint at the vast size the mosque would have covered, nearly 26,000 square meters!

Explore the Hassan Tower for an unforgettable and accessible journey into the heart of Morocco"s historical grandeur.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.