12 Days Morocco Desert Tour from Casablanca

Get ready for an exciting 12-day Casablanca tour that takes you through Morocco’s most stunning landscapes and cultural wonders. From the bustling streets of Casablanca to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert, this adventure has it all. You’ll explore imperial cities, rugged mountain ranges, historic kasbahs, and more, wrapping up in the vibrant city of Marrakech. Let’s break down each incredible day of your journey!

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Explore the City

Your Casablanca tour starts upon your arrival in Morocco’s largest city. After checking into your hotel, take some time to settle in.

Visit the Hassan II Mosque: This breathtaking mosque, perched on the Atlantic coast, is one of the largest in the world. Its intricate architecture and stunning ocean views are unforgettable.
Stroll Along the Corniche: Take a walk along Casablanca’s coastal promenade and stop by Rick’s Café, famous for its connection to the movie Casablanca.

Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in your hotel.

Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat and Chefchaouen

Rabat – The Capital of Morocco: After breakfast, head to Rabat, the political heart of Morocco. Visit the iconic Hassan Tower, an unfinished 12th-century minaret, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a majestic tomb honoring Morocco’s kings.
Lunch in Rabat: Enjoy a delicious lunch before continuing your journey.
Arrival in Chefchaouen: In the afternoon, arrive in the charming blue town of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains. Explore the town’s picturesque, narrow streets, and unwind for the night in this peaceful setting.

Overnight stay in Chefchaouen.

Day 3: Explore Chefchaouen and Drive to Fes

Morning in Chefchaouen: Spend the morning exploring the town’s famous blue-washed medina. Visit the Kasbah Museum or relax in the main square, Outa el-Hammam.
Drive to Fes: After lunch, head towards Fes, one of Morocco’s most historic cities. Arrive in the evening, check into your riad, and enjoy a cozy dinner.

Day 4: Full Day in Fes – Cultural and Historical Tour

Fes El Bali – The Old Medina: Begin your day with a guided tour of Fes El Bali, the city’s ancient medina and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its maze-like streets, visit the University of Al Quaraouiyine (the world’s oldest university), and marvel at the stunning Bou Inania Madrasa.
Chouara Tannery: Next, visit the famous Chouara Tannery, where you can see traditional leather production up close.
Explore the Artisan Souks: Spend the afternoon browsing through Fes’ bustling artisan markets, where you can find everything from pottery to textiles.

Dinner and overnight stay in Fes.

Day-5: Fes to Merzouga – Middle Atlas Mountains and Ziz Valley

Journey Through the Middle Atlas Mountains: Start your day by driving through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Make a stop in Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland,” for its alpine architecture.
Explore Azrou’s Cedar Forests: Visit the cedar forests of Azrou, where you might spot local Barbary apes.
Lunch in Midelt: Stop in the town of Midelt for lunch, situated between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains.
Arrival in Merzouga and Camel Trek: Continue your journey through the scenic Ziz Valley and reach Merzouga by late afternoon. From there, embark on a camel trek into the vast Erg Chebbi dunes as the sun sets.
Night in a Desert Camp: Spend the night in a traditional Berber desert camp under the stars, complete with dinner and Berber music.

Day-6: Full Day in Merzouga – Explore the Desert

Sunrise Over the Sahara: Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the dunes of the Sahara Desert.
Exploring the Desert: After breakfast, you can visit Khamlia, a village known for its traditional Gnawa music, or meet a Berber nomadic family to learn about their unique way of life.
Desert Adventures: If you’re looking for adventure, try sandboarding or quad biking on the dunes. Return to the camp in the evening for dinner and another night under the stars.

Day-7: Merzouga to Dades Valley – Todra Gorge and Berber Villages

Camel Ride Back to Merzouga: Start the day with a camel ride back to Merzouga village.
Todra Gorge: Your next stop is Todra Gorge, a spectacular canyon with towering rock walls that reach up to 300 meters.
Dades Valley – The Road of a Thousand Kasbahs: Continue your journey through the scenic Dades Valley, known for its ancient fortresses and dramatic rock formations. Spend the night in a guesthouse or hotel, enjoying dinner surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Day-8: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate – Skoura and Aït Benhaddou

Skoura Oasis: After breakfast, drive through the lush Skoura Oasis, home to palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
Visit Kasbah Aït Benhaddou: Explore this famous UNESCO World Heritage site, a well-preserved ksar that has served as the backdrop for many films.
Night in Ouarzazate: Arrive in Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert.” Enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening in your hotel.

Day-9: Ouarzazate to Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains

Visit Taourirt Kasbah: In the morning, tour the historic Taourirt Kasbah before setting out for Marrakech.
Cross the High Atlas Mountains: Enjoy breathtaking views as you cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest road pass in North Africa.
Arrival in Marrakech: Check into your hotel or riad in Marrakech and relax over dinner.

Day-10: Full Day in Marrakech – The Red City

Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: Start your day by visiting this iconic square, filled with street performers, food stalls, and vibrant energy.
Koutoubia Mosque and Saadian Tombs: Discover the beauty of the Koutoubia Mosque and the ornate Saadian Tombs.
Bahia Palace and Majorelle Garden: Explore the Bahia Palace and stroll through the tranquil Majorelle Garden.
Afternoon in the Souks: Spend the afternoon shopping in Marrakech’s famous souks, where you can find spices, pottery, and traditional Moroccan crafts.

Day-11: Day Trip to Essaouira – Coastal Escape

Drive to Essaouira: In the morning, take a day trip to the coastal city of Essaouira, known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches.
Explore the Medina and Beach: Walk through Essaouira’s charming medina, visit the historic Skala de la Kasbah, and enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
Return to Marrakech: In the late afternoon, return to Marrakech for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day-12: Departure from Marrakech

Final Morning in Marrakech: Enjoy breakfast and some last-minute exploration or shopping in the city before your departure.
Departure: Your Casablanca tour comes to an end as you head to the airport, taking with you unforgettable memories of Morocco’s landscapes, culture, and history.

What’s Included in Your Casablanca Tour:

Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation
English-speaking driver/guide
Camel trekking in Merzouga
2 nights in a desert camp with dinner and breakfast
9 nights in hotels/riads with dinner and breakfast
Guided tours in Fes and Marrakech
Day trip to Essaouira

This 12-day Casablanca tour is an incredible way to experience Morocco, from its imperial cities and ancient medinas to the vast Sahara Desert and the towering Atlas Mountains. Whether you’re riding camels through golden dunes or exploring vibrant souks, this tour offers the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Ready to discover the magic of Morocco?