Overview
This 9 days tour from Casablanca takes you deep into Morocco’s heart — from the Atlantic coast and imperial cities to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. You’ll explore UNESCO heritage sites, cross the majestic Atlas Mountains, and immerse yourself in authentic Berber culture before looping back to Casablanca, enriched with unforgettable memories.
Itinerary
Welcome to Morocco! After landing at Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, your driver will greet you and escort you to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, take a guided visit to the stunning Hassan II Mosque, perched dramatically on the Atlantic coast—the mosque’s intricate architecture and ocean views make it one of the world’s most spectacular. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the seaside Corniche, or dine at one of Casablanca’s vibrant restaurants to sample fresh seafood or traditional Moroccan dishes. Overnight in Casablanca.
Begin your journey north with a scenic drive to Rabat, Morocco’s capital city known for its blend of history and modernity. Explore the majestic Royal Palace grounds, the towering Hassan Tower, and the peaceful Oudaias Kasbah, overlooking the Bou Regreg River. After lunch, continue through the beautiful Rif Mountains to reach Chefchaouen, the enchanting “Blue Pearl.” This mountain town is famed for its vibrant blue-painted streets, charming squares, and artisan shops. Spend the afternoon wandering its photogenic alleys and relaxing in a traditional riad. Overnight in Chefchaouen.
Leave the mountains behind and head south to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved mosaics, triumphal arches, and sprawling ruins that once marked the edge of the Roman Empire. Continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. Here, admire the impressive Bab Mansour Gate, stroll through the lively medina, and visit the royal stables and granaries. In the late afternoon, arrive in the spiritual heart of Morocco, Fes. Check in to your riad and prepare for tomorrow’s exploration. Overnight in Fes.
Discover the labyrinthine alleys of Fes el-Bali, one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas. Your expert guide will introduce you to highlights such as the Al Quaraouiyine University, the oldest continuously operating university in the world, the ornate Bou Inania Madrasa, and the famous Chouara Tannery, where leather is still dyed using centuries-old methods. Dive into vibrant souks selling spices, textiles, pottery, and jewelry, and visit artisan workshops to see traditional crafts in action. Overnight in Fes.
Journey south through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through the alpine-style town of Ifrane, often called “Morocco’s Switzerland,” and the cedar forests of Azrou, home to playful Barbary macaques. Continue through Midelt, a mining town nestled between mountain ranges, before descending into the lush Ziz Valley, famous for its palm groves and kasbahs. By late afternoon, arrive at the edge of the Sahara in Merzouga, where you’ll mount camels for a magical trek into the towering Erg Chebbi dunes. Watch the sunset paint the sand golden, then enjoy a traditional Berber dinner and music around the campfire beneath a blanket of stars. Overnight in a luxury desert camp.
Wake early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, a peaceful spectacle of light and color. After breakfast, visit Rissani, a lively market town and historic gateway to the Sahara, where you can explore the local souk and learn about the region’s traditions. Then drive to the dramatic Todra Gorges, a narrow canyon with sheer limestone walls soaring up to 300 meters high—perfect for a scenic walk or rock climbing. Continue to the spectacular Dades Gorges, known for its unusual rock formations and winding valley roads. Spend the night in a comfortable guesthouse with panoramic views of the gorge.
Travel through the beautiful Dades Valley and the palm oasis of Skoura, dotted with ancient kasbahs. Arrive in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” and visit its famous film studios and the Taourirt Kasbah. Then continue to the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a stunning example of traditional earthen architecture and a backdrop for many famous films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After exploring the kasbah, cross the High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass and descend into Marrakech. Overnight in a riad in the Red City.
Spend your day exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech at your own pace or join a guided tour to visit iconic sites such as the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the ornate Bahia Palace, the beautiful Majorelle Garden, and the lively souks filled with crafts and spices. Enjoy the city’s magical atmosphere before your final night. Overnight in Marrakech.
After breakfast, your driver will transfer you back to Casablanca Airport for your departure flight, concluding your immersive Moroccan journey.
Includes/Excludes
Included:
- Private modern air-conditioned vehicle with English-speaking driver/guide
- Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
- 8 nights’ accommodation (hotels, riads, desert camp)
- Breakfasts daily
- 3 dinners (Merzouga Desert, Dades Gorges, Ait Ben Haddou area)
- Camel trekking in Erg Chebbi dunes (sunset & sunrise)
- Sandboarding in the desert
- Guided city tours in Fes and Marrakech with local licensed guides
- All entrance fees to monuments listed in the itinerary
Excluded:
- International flights
- Lunches and drinks (unless specified)
- Personal expenses & tips
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary