11 Days - Tour from Casablanca to Marrakech via Desert

Overview: 

Take this 11 Days Tour from Casablanca Via Marrakech and the Sahara Desert, where the past and present seamlessly blend to create a tapestry of rich cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Commencing in Casablanca, explore the iconic Hassan II Mosque and the bustling Corniche before embarking on a historical trail through Rabat and Meknes. Immerse yourself in the authenticity of Fes, wandering through its labyrinthine medina and visiting landmarks such as the Royal Palace and Quaraouine mosque. The adventure then unfolds in the mesmerizing Merzouga Desert, where camel treks through the Erg Chebbi Dunes and nights in Nomad tents provide a genuine taste of desert life.

Continuing the odyssey, traverse the captivating landscapes of Dades Gorges, explore the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, and wind through the Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass towards Marrakech. Uncover the vibrant essence of Marrakech with visits to Majorelle Gardens, Saadian Tombs, and the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Dive into the souks and indulge in a Moroccan cooking class for a sensorial delight. The journey concludes with a seamless transfer back to Casablanca, leaving indelible memories of an immersive exploration into Morocco’s diverse heritage and natural wonders.

Tour Highlights:

• Explore iconic monuments like the Hassan II Mosque.
• Discover Rabat’s historical treasures and the capital’s highlights.
  Explore Meknes, a former imperial city, and the Roman ruins in Volubilis.
• Explore the Royal Palace, tanneries, and Quaraouine mosque.
• Traverse the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane and Azrou.
  Camel trek in the Erg Chebbi Dunes and enjoy a desert camp.
  Experience a Berber dinner and sleep in a Nomad camel hair tent.
• Visit Khamlia village, home of the Gnawa people.
• Journey through Rissani, Tinghir, and Todra Gorges.
• Drive through the Roses Valley to Ouarzazate.
  Explore local movie studios and visit Ait Ben Haddou.
• Explore the vibrant Marrakech medina and stay near its heart.
• Smooth transfer back to Casablanca, marking the end of the memorable journey.

Itinerary: 

Day 1 – Casablanca Arrival and Guided Tour:

Upon your arrival at Casablanca airport, our team will be ready to pick you up and kick off your Moroccan 11 days adventure. The day will be dedicated to exploring the main monuments and attractions in Casablanca. You’ll have the opportunity to visit iconic sites such as the Hassan II Mosque and the vibrant Corniche. In the evening, you’ll be accommodated in a local hotel where you can enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and a comfortable night’s rest.

Day 2 – Casablanca to Fes via Rabat:

Today, we depart from Casablanca, heading towards Fes with stops in Rabat and Meknes, two historical cities that are steeped in culture and heritage. In Rabat, the capital, you’ll explore the Royal Palace, the Kasbah of the Udayas, and the Hassan Tower. Continuing on, we’ll visit Meknes, another former imperial city, to discover its main sights. En route to Fes, we’ll explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis, providing a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history. Arriving in Fes in the evening, you’ll stay in a traditional Moroccan riad, immersing yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the city.

Day 3 – Fes Guided Tour:

Today’s highlight is a guided tour of Fes, one of Morocco’s oldest and most fascinating cities. The tour takes you through the intricate medina, where you’ll explore narrow alleys and visit significant landmarks such as the Jewish Quarter (Mellah), the Royal Palace, the renowned tanneries, and the Quaraouine Mosque, often considered the world’s first university. A panoramic view of the city awaits you after lunch at a typical Moroccan restaurant in the Medina. Your overnight stay will be at a local riad, complete with dinner and breakfast.

Day 4 – Fes to Merzouga Desert:

Our Moroccan adventure takes us further as we leave Fes for the enchanting Merzouga Desert. The journey includes a drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Ifrane, a charming ski resort, and Azrou, an important handicraft center known for cedarwood work. Lunch awaits in Midelt before we venture to Erfoud and into the desert. The overnight will be in a local Riad in the Merzouga Sahara Desert. 

Day 5 – Merzouga Desert 4×4 Tour:

Today’s adventure brings you closer to the rich culture of the region. Visit the village of Khamlia, home to the Gnawa people, originally from Mali, Senegal, and Sudan. Learn about their music and lifestyle before embarking on a camel ride guided by an experienced camel man, exploring the highest sand dunes in Morocco. The highlight of the day is a camel trek into the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi Dunes, where you’ll spend the evening in a desert camp (bivouac). Enjoy a Berber dinner and sleep in a traditional Nomad camel hair tent, surrounded by the magic of the Sahara.

Day 6 – Merzouga Desert to Dades Gorges:

Leaving the desert behind, we set our course for Rissani, Tinghir, and the Todra Gorges, the highest and narrowest gorges in Morocco. Opt for a one-hour hike within the valley to meet locals and gain insight into their culture. After lunch in the heart of the gorge, the journey continues to the Dades Valley, revealing majestic sand castles and rock formations known as “monkey toes.” Your accommodation for the night will be in a luxurious guest house, providing a perfect blend of comfort and authenticity.

Day 7 – Dades Gorges to Ait Benhaddou:

Continuing our exploration, we drive through the Dades Valley to Ouarzazate, stopping at Kalaat Mgouna, the center of the Roses Valley. Explore local movie studios in Ouarzazate and proceed to Ait Ben Haddou to visit its famous Kasbah. Spend the night in a cozy riad with dinner and breakfast, absorbing the unique charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 8 – Ait Benhaddou to Marrakech:

Embark on a scenic drive to Marrakech through the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass over the High Atlas Mountains. Upon arrival in Marrakech, immerse yourself in the medina’s vibrant atmosphere and stay overnight in a hotel near the heart of the city.