
- Casablanca
- 12 days / 11 nights
overview:
Embark on an incredible 12-day journey from Casablanca to Merzouga, a tour that dives deep into Morocco’s imperial cities, breathtaking landscapes, and the enchanting Sahara Desert. From the vibrant streets of Casablanca to the serene sands of the Sahara, this tour is a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Ideal for travelers seeking to explore Morocco’s historic sites, Berber culture, and natural beauty, this tour offers a truly immersive experience.
itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca
Begin your adventure with your arrival in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and commercial hub. After a warm welcome at the airport, transfer to your hotel to unwind. Depending on your arrival time, visit the grand Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques, or stroll along the Corniche to soak in the coastal views. Enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat
After breakfast, set out for Rabat, the capital of Morocco and a city that blends history with modern elegance. Upon arrival, visit key landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Hassan Tower, and the impressive Mausoleum of Mohammed V. In the afternoon, explore the charming Kasbah of the Udayas, a picturesque neighborhood with narrow streets and stunning ocean views. Spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Rabat.
Day 3: Rabat to Chefchaouen via Ouazzane
Day three takes you on a scenic drive north to the magical blue city of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains. Along the way, stop in Ouazzane, a small town known for its religious significance and traditional crafts. Upon arrival in Chefchaouen, you’ll be greeted by the city’s famous blue-painted streets and stunning mountain backdrop.
Spend the rest of the day wandering through the medina, exploring local markets, and relaxing in the city’s tranquil squares. Overnight in a charming riad.
Day 4: Full Day in Chefchaouen
Day four is dedicated to exploring the enchanting town of Chefchaouen. Visit the Kasbah Museum, where you can learn about the history of the region, and stroll through the lively Outa el-Hammam Square. The town is also a great place for a hike to the nearby Ras El Maa waterfall, offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant, sampling some of the region’s traditional dishes.
Day 5: Chefchaouen to Fes via Volubilis and Meknes
On day five, depart Chefchaouen and head towards the imperial city of Fes, with stops along the way at the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis and the historic city of Meknes. In Volubilis, explore the well-preserved mosaics and ancient Roman structures that once made this city an important center of trade.
In Meknes, visit the grand Bab Mansour gate, the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, and the historic granaries. After exploring Meknes, continue to Fes, where you’ll settle in for the night in a traditional riad in the medina.
Day 6: Full Day in Fes
Spend day six delving into the rich history and vibrant culture of Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city. Begin your tour with a visit to Fes el-Bali, the old medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the narrow streets, visit the Al-Qarawiyyin University, and explore the beautiful Bou Inania Madrasa.
In the afternoon, explore the famous Chouara Tanneries, where you can watch artisans dye leather using traditional methods. End the day by visiting the bustling souks, where you can find everything from handmade pottery to fine carpets. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before returning to your riad.
Day 7: Fes to Midelt via the Middle Atlas Mountains
On day seven, leave Fes behind as you journey south through the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains. Pass through charming towns like Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its alpine-style architecture, and Azrou, known for its cedar forests and wild monkeys. Stop for a scenic lunch before continuing on to Midelt, a small town nestled between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas ranges.
In Midelt, enjoy a peaceful evening in a comfortable guesthouse, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
Day 8: Midelt to Merzouga via Ziz Valley
After breakfast, continue your journey towards the desert, passing through the Ziz Valley, famous for its lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs. You’ll pass through the town of Erfoud, known for its fossils, before reaching Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert.
Once in Merzouga, embark on a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, where you’ll witness the mesmerizing sunset over the golden sands. Spend the night in a traditional Berber camp, enjoying a hearty dinner and live music under the star-filled sky.
Day 9: Merzouga Desert Exploration
Day nine is dedicated to exploring the beauty of the Sahara Desert. Start your day with an unforgettable sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast at the camp. You’ll then have the opportunity to explore the desert by quad bike, visit a nomadic Berber village, or try sandboarding.
In the afternoon, take another camel trek or enjoy some quiet time relaxing in the desert. The evening is spent back at the camp, where you’ll enjoy dinner and entertainment around the campfire.
Day 10: Merzouga to Dades Valley via Todra Gorge
After breakfast, leave the desert behind and make your way to the stunning Todra Gorge, a canyon with towering rock walls that provide a dramatic backdrop for hiking and photography. After exploring the gorge, continue through the Dades Valley, known for its unique rock formations and verdant riverbanks.
Arrive at your guesthouse in the Dades Valley, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and a peaceful evening in the heart of this picturesque region.
Day 11: Dades Valley to Marrakech via Ouarzazate
On day eleven, continue your journey to Ouarzazate, stopping along the way to explore the Valley of Roses and the ancient kasbahs in the Skoura Oasis. Once in Ouarzazate, visit the famous Taourirt Kasbah and the local film studios, where many Hollywood movies have been filmed.
In the afternoon, drive over the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains before arriving in Marrakech. Spend your final evening in Marrakech exploring the lively Jemaa el-Fna square and enjoying a delicious dinner.
Day 12: Full Day in Marrakech and Departure
On the last day of your tour, spend the morning exploring the iconic sights of Marrakech, including the Koutoubia Mosque, the Bahia Palace, and the beautiful Majorelle Garden. Dive into the vibrant souks for some last-minute shopping before heading to the airport for your departure, marking the end of your unforgettable 12-day tour from Casablanca to Merzouga Desert.
Why Choose the 12-Day Tour from Casablanca to Merzouga Desert?
This 12-day tour offers a thorough exploration of Morocco’s imperial cities, scenic mountain landscapes, and the majestic Sahara Desert. It provides a unique blend of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and desert adventure, making it an ideal choice for travelers who want a comprehensive and immersive Moroccan experience.
What to Expect on the 12-Day Tour
- Visits to Morocco’s imperial cities: Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakech
- Scenic drives through the Middle Atlas Mountains and Ziz Valley
- Exploration of Roman ruins at Volubilis and ancient kasbahs in Ouarzazate
- Camel trekking in the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Two nights in a Berber camp with traditional music and food
- Opportunities for quad biking, sandboarding, and visits to nomadic Berber villages
The 12-day tour from Casablanca to Merzouga Desert offers a captivating journey through Morocco’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the imperial cities to the Sahara Desert, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning sights, unique experiences, and a deeper understanding of Morocco’s timeless beauty. Whether you’re trekking through the dunes or exploring ancient cities, this tour is a perfect way to discover the magic of Morocco.