Immerse yourself in the soul of Morocco on this 10-day tour, thoughtfully designed to take you from Casablanca to Marrakech without the usual travel burdens. Experience the stark beauty and gentle pace of Chefchaouen’s blue medina, uncover the historic splendor of the Imperial Cities, and marvel at the ancient Roman legacy in Volubilis. Navigate the vibrant, timeless medina of Fes with ease.
Your adventure includes comfortable, air-conditioned travel and a truly unique Saharan experience: a camel trek across the dunes to a traditional Berber tented camp for a night under the vast desert sky. This itinerary promises a rich tapestry of history, authentic cultural encounters, and memorable adventures.
Welcome to Morocco! Upon arrival at Casablanca Airport, your driver will greet you for a comfortable transfer directly to Marrakech, the famed “Red City” known for its distinctive pink-hued buildings. After settling into your accommodation within the historic medina, your first taste of Moroccan magic awaits. As evening descends, immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of Djemaa El-Fna square, a captivating spectacle of storytellers, musicians, snake charmers, and bustling food stalls. Overnight stay in a traditional riad or hotel.
After breakfast, embark on a captivating guided tour of Marrakech. Discover iconic landmarks such as the Koutoubia Mosque (exterior view), the opulent Bahia Palace, and the historic Saadian Tombs. Delve into the vibrant labyrinth of the souks within the ancient medina, a sensory feast of traditional crafts, aromatic spices, and colorful displays. You’ll also revisit Djemaa El-Fna to understand its central role in city life by day. Overnight stay in your Marrakech riad/hotel.
Today, your journey heads south, ascending into the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka pass (2260m). A scenic detour leads to the historic Telouet Kasbah, former stronghold of the Glaoui clan. Marvel at the shifting landscapes and traditional Berber villages as you descend. After lunch at a mountainside restaurant, follow the picturesque Ounila Valley route to reach the magnificent Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and famed film location. Explore this iconic fortified village before continuing to Ouarzazate for the night. Overnight stay in a hotel or riad.
Continue your adventure towards the Dades Valley. Your first stop is the Skoura Oasis, a lush palm grove sheltering the beautifully preserved Kasbah Amerhidil. Journey through Kelaa M’Gouna in the heart of the Rose Valley, famous for its fragrant blooms and annual rose festival (rose products available seasonally). After lunch en route, proceed to Boumalne Dades and enter the stunning Dades Valley, admiring its unique “monkey fingers” rock formations and dramatic landscapes. Overnight stay in a hotel or kasbah nestled in the Dades Valley or near the Gorges.
Depart the Dades Valley after breakfast and head to Tinghir to explore the spectacular Todra Gorge. Take a walk along the riverbed between its towering, sheer canyon walls, a renowned spot for rock climbers. Continue your journey towards the Sahara, passing through Tinjdad and Erfoud (noted for its fossils), with a possible lunch stop in historic Rissani. By late afternoon, reach the edge of the Merzouga desert. Here, embark on an unforgettable camel trek across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes to your traditional Berber desert camp. Witness a breathtaking sunset over the sands, savor a delicious Moroccan dinner under a canopy of stars, and enjoy lively Berber music around a campfire. Overnight in your desert tent.
Awaken early to witness the magical spectacle of a desert sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After this memorable experience, ride your camels back to the lodge at the dune line for breakfast and a refreshing shower. Your journey then heads north towards Midelt, traversing the scenic Ziz Valley, renowned for its vast palm groves and fortified ksars. Arrive in Midelt, nestled in the foothills of the Middle Atlas, a town known for its apple orchards and mineral wealth. Overnight stay in a local hotel.
After breakfast, depart Midelt and travel towards Fes, crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains. Pass through Ifrane, often dubbed “Morocco’s Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture. Your route continues through the fragrant Cedar Forest near Azrou, where you’ll have the delightful chance to observe Barbary macaques in their natural habitat. Upon arrival in Fes in the afternoon, check into your accommodation. Depending on arrival time, you may have some free time to relax. Overnight stay in a Fes riad or hotel.
Today is dedicated to exploring Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city and its spiritual heart. Your expert-guided tour will delve into the captivating Fes el-Bali (Old Medina), a UNESCO World Heritage labyrinth. Discover highlights including the Royal Palace gates, the historic Mellah (Jewish Quarter), intricately decorated Medersas (Islamic schools) like Bou Inania or Al-Attarine, the famous Chouara Tanneries (from a panoramic viewpoint), the Nejjarine Fountain, and the Kairaouine Mosque & University (exterior view). You’ll also visit a local ceramic cooperative to see artisans at work. In the late afternoon, enjoy free time to wander the medina’s enchanting alleyways at your own pace. Overnight stay and dinner at your riad/hotel in Fes.
After breakfast, depart from Fes for the westward journey back to Casablanca, Morocco’s bustling commercial capital. While Casablanca boasts ancient roots, its modern persona took shape in the early 20th century. Upon arrival, and if time allows, visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, an architectural marvel and one of the world’s largest mosques, dramatically situated by the Atlantic Ocean. Check into your hotel for your final night. Overnight stay and dinner in Casablanca.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Casablanca Mohammed V Airport for your departure, concluding your enriching 10-day Moroccan desert adventure.
✔ Private transport (4×4 or minivan) with A/C
✔ English/French-speaking driver/guide
✔ 1 night in a Dades Valley hotel & 1 night in a desert camp
✔ Camel trek in Merzouga (1 per person)
✔ Breakfast & dinner during the trip
✖ Lunches & drinks
✖ Entrance fees (Ait Ben Haddou, film studios, etc.)
✖ Tips for guides/drivers
