12 days Morocco Tour From Casablanca to the Imperial Cities and Sahara Desert

Your Moroccan adventure begins as you arrive at Casablanca Airport, where you’ll be welcomed by your private driver. You will then embark on a short guided visit of Casablanca, the economic heart of Morocco. The main highlight of this visit is the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, covering 9 hectares and located on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. With a towering minaret reaching 210 meters, it is not only the tallest minaret in the world but also an architectural masterpiece showcasing traditional Moroccan craftsmanship with its intricate mosaics, marble floors, and woodwork.

After breakfast, your journey continues as you depart Casablanca and head to Rabat, Morocco’s political capital. Upon arrival, you’ll first visit the Kasbah of the Oudayas, a fortified area with blue-painted walls, offering stunning views over the river. Explore its peaceful gardens and learn about its history dating back to the Almohad Dynasty. Then, you’ll visit the Mausoleum of Mohamed V, an ornate mausoleum housing the tombs of the late King Mohamed V and his two sons, with a beautiful blend of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship. Close by, you’ll find Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret that was intended to be the largest in the world but was never completed. After your exploration of Rabat, continue to Chefchaouen, the enchanting “blue city” known for its cobbled streets, blue-painted houses, and charming atmosphere.

Today is a free day to explore Chefchaouen at your own pace. Wander through its narrow streets lined with buildings painted in varying shades of blue, capturing the essence of this charming mountain town. Visit the Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the town’s main square, and relax in the cafes. Explore the Kasbah, a historic fortress that now houses a museum and a beautiful garden. Don’t miss a visit to the Ras El Maa Waterfall, located just outside the town, where the sound of running water adds to the peaceful ambiance of the area.

AAfter breakfast, depart Chefchaouen for Fes, but first stop at the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Volubilis offers an intriguing glimpse into Morocco’s Roman past, with well-preserved mosaics, temples, and basilicas. Next, head to Meknes, the imperial city known for its magnificent gates and royal heritage. Visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, where the remains of one of Morocco’s most powerful rulers lie. Explore the granaries, designed to keep food supplies fresh in the scorching heat, and admire the impressive Bab Mansour Gate, a striking example of Islamic architecture. Continue your journey to Fes, one of the world’s most significant medieval cities.

After breakfast, a local guide will lead you through the maze-like streets of Fes Medina, one of the largest medieval walled cities in the world. Begin at the King’s Palace, where you can admire the intricate zellij tile work and stunning brass doors. Then, explore the famous tanneries, where you’ll see how leather is traditionally dyed in colorful vats. Visit the Al Quaraouiyine University, considered the world’s oldest continually operating degree-granting university, founded in 859 AD. Also, stop by the Medersa Bou Inania, a beautiful theological school built in the 14th century. In the evening, you’ll have time to explore the bustling souks, where artisans sell everything from spices to textiles and metalworks.

After breakfast, your journey takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing the charming town of Ifran, known as “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture. Stop in Midelt, famous for its fossils, where you can enjoy a lunch break. Then, continue your journey through the rugged terrain and scenic valleys, eventually reaching Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Here, you’ll embark on a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes to witness a stunning desert sunset. You’ll stay overnight at a traditional Nomad camp, surrounded by the vast desert and beneath a sky full of stars.

After breakfast, enjoy a day of exploration around Merzouga. Visit the Fossils Center, where you’ll learn about the region’s geological history, and explore the ancient town of Rissani, the birthplace of the Alawite dynasty. In Rissani, you’ll visit Ksar Oulad Abdelhalim, a beautiful example of early Moroccan architecture. You’ll also visit Khamlia village, where you’ll experience the soulful sounds of Gnawa music, a traditional genre performed by descendants of former slaves. In the afternoon, embark on another camel trek to witness the desert sunset, followed by an evening of Berber music and stargazing.

After an early breakfast, return to Merzouga to catch the sunrise over the dunes. Then, head towards the Todra Gorges, where you’ll be able to walk through the towering, 600-foot-high rock walls that create a dramatic landscape. After a photo stop, continue your journey to Dades Gorge, passing the picturesque Tamnalt Hills. Along the way, admire the beautiful river valleys that wind through the landscape.

After breakfast, continue your journey towards Ouarzazate, passing through the Road of One Thousand Kasbahs. Along the way, stop at Skoura Oasis before reaching Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient fortified village, made famous by films like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia, offers a chance to explore its dramatic kasbahs and narrow streets. After lunch at Ait Benhaddou, head across the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech.

After breakfast, embark on a day trip to the coastal town of Essaouira, a charming blend of Portuguese and French colonial architecture. Explore the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the fortified ramparts, the old Portuguese port, and the bustling fishing harbor. Essaouira is also known for its arts and crafts, including beautiful inlaid cedar furniture. In the afternoon, enjoy the cool breeze on the beach before returning to Marrakech.
End of Tour.

Spend your last full day in Marrakech, a vibrant city full of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Explore the Palace of Bahia, the Saadian Tombs, and the Koutoubia Mosque, a symbol of the city. Don’t miss the Djemaa el-Fna Square, where you can experience the lively atmosphere filled with street performers, food vendors, and bustling markets.

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure. End of Tour