8 Day Fes to Casablanca via Desert

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey across Morocco, blending the dramatic landscapes of the Sahara Desert, the towering Atlas Mountains, historic kasbahs, vibrant cities, and the charm of Morocco’s Atlantic coast. This tour begins in Fes, meanders through desert oases and mountain passes, explores UNESCO-listed kasbahs, and ends with the modern and historic highlights of Casablanca. Along the way, enjoy camel rides, desert sunsets, cultural encounters with nomads, bustling medinas, and the relaxed coastal atmosphere of Essaouira.

• Discover Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital, and its lively medina.
• Cross the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, with stops in Ifrane and Azrou’s cedar forests.
• Explore the Sahara Desert with camel trekking and overnight under the stars.
• Visit Todra Gorge, Dades Valley, and the fragrant Rose Valley.
• Explore UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah and Ouarzazate film studios.
• Cross the High Atlas Mountains and enjoy panoramic mountain vistas.
• Wander the vibrant streets and historic sites of Marrakech.
• Experience the charm of Essaouira’s coastal medina, fishing port, and artisan workshops.
• Stop in El Jadida, Morocco’s historic Portuguese city, before finishing in Casablanca.

Day 1: Fes ➝ Ifrane ➝ Azrou ➝ Ziz Valley ➝ Merzouga Desert

Begin your adventure in Fes, heading south into the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in a picturesque town known as Morocco’s “Switzerland” for its charming streets and alpine-style architecture, perfect for photos and a short stroll. Continue to the cedar forests near Azrou, where monkeys roam freely in their natural habitat. After a local lunch, traverse the Ziz Valley with its lush palm groves and dramatic gorges. Arrive at the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga, where you can watch a stunning desert sunset. Settle in for your first night in a desert camp or hotel, accompanied by traditional music under a star-filled sky.

Day 2: Sahara Desert Exploration ➝ Nomads ➝ Camel Trekking

Wake up early to experience the sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, explore the desert by 4×4, visiting volcanic rock formations, fossil sites, and the traditional villages of nomads. Meet a local family, share tea, and learn about their daily life in the desert. Continue to a village known for its rich musical heritage and enjoy the rhythms of Gnaoua music. After lunch, stroll through palm groves and desert oases before embarking on a camel ride to a remote desert camp. Enjoy dinner around a campfire and fall asleep under the infinite desert stars.

Day 3: Sahara Sunrise ➝ Erfoud ➝ Tinejdad ➝ Todgha Gorge ➝ Dades Valley

Rise early for another desert sunrise and a camel ride back to Merzouga. Depart for the scenic journey to Todra Gorge. Along the way, stop at a historic market town where colorful souks and traditional crafts offer an authentic Moroccan experience. Visit fossil workshops and explore local artisan products. Continue through lush palm groves to Todra Gorge, a canyon with soaring red cliffs ideal for photography and short hikes. Descend into the Dades Valley, marveling at unique rock formations and sweeping vistas before spending the night at a valley guesthouse or hotel.

Day 4: Dades Valley ➝ Rose Valley ➝ Ouarzazate ➝ Ait Ben Haddou ➝ High Atlas ➝ Marrakech

After breakfast, wander the fragrant Rose Valley, learning about rose cultivation and local products. Pass through palm groves and the oasis town of Skoura before reaching Ouarzazate, known as Morocco’s “Hollywood of Africa.” Explore its famous kasbahs and film studios before visiting the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continue the journey across the High Atlas Mountains via scenic passes, pausing for photos and lunch at panoramic viewpoints. Arrive in Marrakech by evening and settle into your accommodation.

Day 5: Marrakech – Full-Day Guided Exploration

Spend the day discovering the vibrant city of Marrakech with a knowledgeable local guide. Explore the bustling medina, visit historical landmarks like palaces, tombs, and mosques, and wander through narrow streets lined with markets and artisan shops. Stroll through beautiful gardens filled with exotic plants and colorful flowers. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to further explore the city or return to the lively squares for a taste of local cuisine and street performances.

Day 6: Marrakech ➝ Essaouira (Coastal Day Trip)

Today, head west to Essaouira, a picturesque Atlantic coastal city known for its whitewashed buildings, blue shutters, and historic ramparts. Explore the medina, with its artisan workshops, local markets, and charming alleys. Visit the bustling fishing port, observe goats climbing Argan trees, and learn about Argan oil production. Enjoy fresh seafood for lunch and stroll along the seaside promenade before returning to Marrakech in the evening.

Day 7: Essaouira ➝ El Jadida ➝ Casablanca

Depart Essaouira in the morning and travel south along the Atlantic coast. Stop in El Jadida, a historic Portuguese city recognized for its fortified walls, underground cisterns, and rich heritage. Walk through its old town, admire the architecture, and enjoy a short break for photos or coffee. Continue to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and economic hub. Depending on timing, enjoy a short city tour including iconic sites before checking into your hotel for the night.

Day 8: Casablanca Airport Transfer

On the final day, you will be transferred to Casablanca airport for your departure, concluding your 8-day adventure across Morocco. This journey offers a perfect mix of desert adventure, mountain landscapes, coastal exploration, and rich cultural experiences, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime.

• 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

• 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)