10 days tour from Casablanca to desert

Your Moroccan journey begins with a scenic drive from Casablanca, the commercial heart of the country, to Marrakech—the famed "Red City" at the foot of the High Atlas Mountains. Upon arrival, you’ll check into a traditional riad within the medina walls. Depending on arrival time, you can begin discovering the rhythm of Marrakech with a walk through Jemaa el-Fnaa square, alive with snake charmers, food stalls, and street performers. Enjoy your first taste of Moroccan cuisine during a relaxing dinner in the old town.

Today is dedicated to a deep exploration of Marrakech. With a local guide, visit the exquisite Bahia Palace and the ancient Saadian Tombs, which date back to the 16th century. See the impressive Koutoubia Mosque, the city’s architectural icon, and discover the intricacies of Moroccan craftsmanship in the bustling souks. In the afternoon, stroll through the serene Majorelle Garden, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent. End the day watching the sunset over the medina rooftops with mint tea in hand.

After breakfast, set out across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, enjoying panoramic views of Berber villages and terraced fields. Stop at the fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its earthen clay architecture and cinematic history. Continue to Ouarzazate, known as Morocco’s "Hollywood," before heading through the Valley of Roses to the rugged and picturesque Dades Gorges. Spend the night in a traditional guesthouse surrounded by rocky cliffs and green valleys.

Enjoy a relaxing day in the heart of the Dades Valley. Take a scenic walk or short hike through the gorge, passing fig trees, almond groves, and dramatic rock formations known as "Monkey Fingers." Visit local Berber homes and learn about mountain life and traditional farming methods. The peaceful atmosphere and untouched beauty of this region provide a true break from the busy cities. Return to your guesthouse for dinner and a cozy evening.

oday, continue your desert-bound adventure with a visit to the spectacular Todra Gorges. Walk along the riverbed flanked by towering 300-meter cliffs, a popular spot for climbers and photographers. Then journey through Berber towns like Tinghir and Erfoud, the latter known for its fossil workshops. By afternoon, reach the golden dunes of Merzouga. Mount a camel and trek across the sands to a desert camp. As night falls, enjoy dinner under the stars with traditional Berber music around the fire.

Wake before dawn to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast, explore the area: visit the Gnawa village of Khamlia, where descendants of African slaves perform spiritual music; see nomadic camps in the black desert; and enjoy a tea ceremony with local families. You may also opt for sandboarding, a 4x4 dune drive, or simply relax at your camp or riad. End the day with a peaceful sunset and traditional dinner.

Say goodbye to the Sahara as you journey north through the Tafilalt region. Stop at Rissani, once a vital Saharan trading post, where you can visit its bustling traditional souk. Drive through the lush Ziz Valley, famous for its palm groves and hidden ksars. Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing the town of Midelt and the cedar forests of Azrou, where you might spot Barbary macaques. Arrive in Fes by evening and check into your riad in the ancient medina.

Spend the day with a professional guide exploring the spiritual and intellectual capital of Morocco. Visit the medieval medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO site filled with narrow alleys, historic madrasas, and artisan workshops. See the world’s oldest university, Al Quaraouiyine, and marvel at the mosaic tilework in Bou Inania Madrasa. Visit the leather tanneries—best viewed from above—and explore traditional souks, where copper, textiles, and spices overflow. Experience a world unchanged by time.

After breakfast, leave Fes and drive through the Rif Mountains to reach Chefchaouen. Nestled in the hills, this charming town is famed for its tranquil atmosphere and blue-washed architecture. Spend your afternoon wandering peaceful alleys, visiting the medina’s small artisan shops, and hiking up to the Spanish Mosque for sunset views over the town. Chefchaouen offers a refreshing and picturesque escape from Morocco’s larger cities.

Conclude your Moroccan journey with a drive from Chefchaouen to Rabat, Morocco’s political capital. Stop to explore the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Kasbah of the Udayas overlooking the Atlantic. Continue onward to Casablanca. Depending on your departure time, you may visit the Habous Quarter or enjoy one final Moroccan meal before transferring to the airport. Farewell and safe travels!