8 Days Desert Tour from Casablanca to Marrakech

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Upon arrival at Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, renowned for its stunning architecture and coastal location overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. If time permits, take a leisurely walk along the Corniche to enjoy the ocean views or visit Rick’s Café, inspired by the classic film Casablanca. Afterward, settle in for a relaxing evening and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Casablanca.

Day 2: Casablanca – Rabat – Meknes

After breakfast, depart for the capital city of Rabat, just an hour away. Begin your exploration with a visit to the impressive Hassan Tower, an incomplete mosque dating back to the 12th century. Nearby, you’ll see the beautiful Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the resting place of Moroccan royalty. Continue to the Kasbah of the Udayas, a scenic fortress offering stunning views over the river and Atlantic Ocean. After lunch, drive to the imperial city of Meknes, where you’ll visit the Bab Mansour Gate and the Royal Stables, both showcasing the city’s former grandeur. Spend the evening in Meknes. Overnight in Meknes.

Day 3: Meknes – Volubilis – Fes

Today, head to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its remarkably preserved mosaics and ancient structures. Take time to explore this vast archaeological site, with highlights including the Triumphal Arch and the remains of Roman houses. Afterward, continue to Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city and spiritual capital. Upon arrival, check into your hotel before heading out for a brief orientation tour of the city, where you’ll get a glimpse of its vibrant medina. Overnight in Fes.

Day 4: Fes Guided Tour

Dedicate a full day to exploring Fes el-Bali, the walled medina that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Start at the Al-Qarawiyyin University, the world’s oldest continuously operating university, before wandering through the maze-like streets of the medina. Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, a stunning example of Moroccan architecture, and explore the traditional tanneries, where leather is processed in a centuries-old fashion. Don’t miss the Jewish Quarter (Mellah) and the nearby Royal Palace. After a day full of history and culture, enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner in the medina. Overnight in Fes.

Day 5: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Erfoud – Merzouga

After breakfast, depart Fes and travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains. First, stop in Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its Alpine-style architecture. Continue to Azrou, home to ancient cedar forests where you might spot wild Barbary macaques. Drive through the picturesque Ziz Valley, known for its palm groves, before reaching Erfoud, famous for its fossils and date production. From here, head toward the Merzouga Desert, where you’ll swap your vehicle for a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Enjoy a stunning sunset over the desert before arriving at your Berber camp. Savor dinner under the stars, accompanied by traditional music. Overnight in a desert camp.

Day 6: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley

Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, a magical experience in the desert. After breakfast at the camp, depart Merzouga and stop in the town of Rissani, known for its bustling markets and traditional Berber culture. Continue to the stunning Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon with towering 300-meter-high cliffs. Take a short walk through the gorge and enjoy the scenic views. From here, drive through the Dades Valley, passing lush oases and striking rock formations, often referred to as “monkey fingers” due to their unique shapes. Arrive at your accommodation in the evening. Overnight in Dades Valley.

Day 7: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

After breakfast, continue your journey through the Valley of the Roses, famous for its rose production and fragrant rosewater. Stop in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” and visit the historic Kasbah Taourirt, once a prominent residence of the Glaoui family. Afterward, drive to the famous Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar (fortified village) that has been the backdrop for many famous films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Take time to explore the winding alleys and fortified towers before continuing your journey through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, one of Morocco’s highest roads. Arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon, where you can relax after a long day of travel. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 8: Marrakech – Departure

Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure. End of the tour.