JOIN US ON MACFEST HERITAGE TOURS 2025/6:
2025 Albania | 2026 PORTUGAL & CENTRAL ARABIA
Join us in 2025 as we take you on a journey around the 8 centuries of Islamic Heritage: the history, art, cuisine and culture of Islam around the world!
For six years MACFEST has helped you explore Islamic art and culture by showcasing the works of Muslim creatives around the world.
Now we invite you to join us as we take you on a journey of discovery that delves into both the hidden and known gems of the Islamic world through a series of artfully curated tours.
Saturday 4th – Saturday 11th October 2025
ALBANIA – DISCOVERING OTTOMAN ILLYRIA
This autumn we visit one of the lesser explored parts of Europe that has been blessed with diverse landscapes, hospitable people and a rich culinary tradition.
Sunday 12th April – Friday 17th April 2026
PORTUGAL – UNVEILING THE WESTERN FRONTIER OF AL-ANDALUS
Join us for a specially curated 6-day tour of Portugal offering a mixture of history, culture, cuisine and coastal beauty.
Main Locations: Lisbon, Sintra, Évora, Mértola, Silves
Beginning in the capital Lisbon we explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of Baixa and Alfama, and the nearby town of Sintra famed for its palaces and Arabic influenced castle.
We then head inland to Évora, with its iconic Roman ruins, followed by Mértola where Portugal’s only remaining medieval mosque building still lies intact albeit as a church. Our tour is concluded in the picturesque Algarve region where vestiges of Islamic architecture can be seen in towns such as Silves, Faro and Tavira. This tour provides a unique insight into the deep and often overlooked legacy of Islam in the western part of the Iberian Peninsula.
The package covers 5 nights in 4-star accommodation, breakfast, private ground transport, experienced tour guide and entrance fees. Flights are not included.
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST VIA: tours@macfest.org.uk
Saturday 3rd October – Sunday 11th October 2026
THE TIMELESS SPIRIT OF CENTRAL ARABIA
Join us for an unforgettable 9-day journey through Central Arabia combining the spiritually uplifting experience of Umrah with visits to some of the region’s ancient sites.
Main Locations: Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, Al ‘Ulā, Madā’in Sāleh, Umluj
Starting in Jeddah we experience the diverse character of this vibrant coastal city before proceeding to the holy sanctuary of Makkah for pilgrimage.
We then board a high speed train the Madinah where Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is buried. After visiting the resting places of the Prophet’s companions and other sites of Islamic significance we head northwards to Al ‘Ulā. Here we experience dramatic desert landscapes and discover the archaeological remains of nearby Madā’in Sāleh which was once inhabited by the Nabataeans. The tour is concluded in Umluj with time to unwind and reflect beside the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea. This itinerary blends spirituality, history and nature, offering a comprehensive glimpse into Central Arabia’s rich cultural heritage.
The package covers 4-star accommodation for 8 nights with all meals included together with private transport, tour guide and admission fees where applicable. Flights are excluded.
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST VIA: tours@macfest.org.uk
Our Macfest International Heritage Tours are organised in partnership with Islamic Travels.
Watch our video to learn more!
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST VIA: tours@macfest.org.uk
