8 Day Morocco Tour From Casablanca to Imperial Cities and the Sahara
Duration
8 Days
Departure
Casablanca
Min groupe size
1
Languages
English, Spanish +3…
About this tour :
Embark on an unforgettable journey across Morocco, exploring the country’s imperial cities, scenic mountains, vast deserts, and ancient kasbahs. This 8-day adventure begins in Casablanca and takes you through historic capitals, bustling medinas, the dramatic Sahara Desert, and the Atlas Mountains, ending in the vibrant city of Marrakech. Discover Morocco’s culture, history, and natural beauty while experiencing camel treks, desert camps, and iconic landmarks along the way.
Highilights :
- Explore Casablanca’s architectural marvels and coastal charm.
- Discover Rabat’s royal monuments and historic kasbahs.
- Visit Meknes’ imperial treasures and the UNESCO-listed Roman ruins of Volubilis.
- Tour Fez, including its medieval medina, tanneries, madrasas, and artisan workshops.
- Journey through the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, cedar forests, and scenic valleys.
- Experience camel rides across Erg Chebbi dunes and a night under the stars in a desert camp.
- Explore Todra Gorge and the dramatic Dades Valley rock formations.
- Discover the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah and the Valley of Roses.
- Wander through Marrakech’s historic medina, palaces, and gardens.
Itinerary :
Day 1: Casablanca ➝ Rabat
Upon arrival in Casablanca, start your journey by exploring the city’s highlights, including its striking oceanfront mosque, a true masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. Admire the central square and surrounding historic buildings before traveling to Rabat, Morocco’s political and administrative capital. Explore its iconic landmarks, including the Hassan Tower and the Kasbah of the Oudaias, and take in panoramic views of the river and ocean. End the day with a relaxing evening in the city.
Day 2: Rabat ➝ Meknes ➝ Volubilis ➝ Fez
After breakfast, explore Rabat further with visits to the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and other historical sites. Then continue to Meknes, an imperial city rich with grand gateways, ancient palaces, and bustling medinas. Visit Bab Mansour Gate and the nearby square, often compared to a miniature version of Marrakech’s famous plaza. Afterwards, journey to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s ancient past. Conclude the day in Fez, settling in for the night in one of the city’s traditional riads or hotels.
Day 3: Fez Guided Tour
Spend a full day exploring the historic city of Fez, often called Morocco’s spiritual heart. Begin in the old medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, wandering its narrow alleys, lively souks, and historic landmarks. Highlights include the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, the Bou Inania and Attarine madrasas, the famous tanneries, and the Nejjarine Fountain. Cross to the newer city to see the exterior of the Royal Palace, the Jewish quarter, and a pottery workshop showcasing traditional craftsmanship. End the day with panoramic views of the medina and a stroll through its vibrant streets.
Day 4: Fez ➝ Ifrane ➝ Azrou ➝ Middle Atlas ➝ Merzouga Desert
Depart Fez and journey southeast through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine charm and clean, picturesque streets. Explore the cedar forests near Azrou, home to playful Barbary monkeys. Continue through Midelt for lunch and travel through the lush Ziz Valley, passing palm groves, Berber villages, and the fertile lands of the Tafilalet region. Arrive at the edge of the Sahara near Merzouga, where a camel trek into the dunes awaits. Watch the sunset paint the desert in golden hues, then settle into a desert camp for an evening of traditional music and starry skies.
Day 5: Merzouga ➝ Todgha Gorge ➝ Dades Valley
Wake early to experience a spectacular desert sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After a camel ride back to the village and breakfast, travel to the Todra Gorge, Morocco’s tallest and narrowest gorge, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and striking scenery. Continue through the scenic Dades Valley, known for its rock formations and “monkey fingers,” stopping at viewpoints along the way to admire Berber villages and desert landscapes. Spend the night in a valley hotel or riad overlooking the dramatic surroundings.
Day 6: Dades Valley ➝ Valley of Roses ➝ Ait Ben Haddou ➝ Marrakech
After breakfast, continue along the famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs. Visit Kalaa-M’Gouna, the Valley of Roses, to see rose fields and sample local rose products. Travel through Skoura and admire traditional mud-brick kasbahs before stopping at Ouarzazate, known for its cinematic history. Explore the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a stunning example of Berber architecture. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, enjoying panoramic mountain views and passing Berber villages before arriving in Marrakech.
Day 7: Marrakech Guided Tour
Spend the day exploring Marrakech, the “Red City” of Morocco. Visit the iconic Koutoubia Minaret, the 16th-century Saadian Tombs, the ornate Bahia Palace, and the historic Ben Youssef Koranic School. Wander through the bustling alleys of the medina and its vibrant souks, observing artisans and sampling local flavors. Visit the Majorelle Gardens, a lush oasis of cacti, palms, and exotic plants. Spend the evening in the lively Jemaa El-Fna Square, taking in street performers, storytellers, musicians, and acrobats.
Day 8: Marrakech ➝ Casablanca Departure
After an early breakfast, transfer to Casablanca for your departure flight. Reflect on an incredible journey through Morocco’s imperial cities, majestic landscapes, and the enchanting Sahara Desert. Your 8-day adventure concludes here, leaving memories of vibrant cultures, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable experiences.
Included :
- Private transportation with a professional local driver
- Hand-picked accommodations (riads, kasbahs, boutique hotels or desert camps, depending on itinerary)
- Breakfasts included in most accommodations throughout the trip
- Dinners in the desert and remote regions, when applicable
- Cultural and heritage activities listed in your itinerary
- Local certified guides at major historical sites and selected cities
- Camel ride in the Sahara for desert tours
- Assistance from our dedicated team throughout your stay
Excluded :
- International flights to and from Morocco
- Lunches and beverages, unless specified
- Entrance fees to certain monuments or optional activities
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Tips for guides and drivers (at your discretion)
