12-Day Desert Tour around Morocco from Casablanca

Overview

Experience the best of Morocco with this comprehensive 12-day desert tour around Morocco from Casablanca. This journey takes you through historical cities, the stunning Sahara Desert, and vibrant medinas. With dedicated exploration days in Chefchaouen, Fes, Merzouga, Marrakech, and Tangier, you’ll delve deeply into Morocco’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty.

Highlights

  • Discover the modern and historical wonders of Casablanca, including the stunning Hassan II Mosque.
  • Wander through the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains.
  • Explore the ancient medina of Fes, home to the oldest university in the world.
  • Experience the tranquility and vastness of the Sahara Desert with an overnight stay in a luxury camp.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Marrakech, visiting its palaces, gardens, and bustling souks.
  • Enjoy the coastal charm and historical significance of Tangier.

Included/Excluded

  • Accommodation in charming hotels, traditional riads, and a desert camp
  • Airport transfers and hotel pickups/drop-offs
  • Camel trek in Merzouga
  • Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Lunches and additional dinners
  • Drinks and personal expenses
  • Entrance fees to monuments and attractions not specified in the itinerary
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities

Tour Plan

Day 1 Arrival in Casablanca

Begin your Moroccan adventure with a warm welcome at Casablanca’s airport. Transfer to your hotel and settle in. In the afternoon, visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, known for its stunning architecture and coastal views. The mosque’s intricate details, from its towering minaret to the exquisite mosaics, are a testament to Moroccan craftsmanship. Enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the city's modern attractions, such as the Casablanca Marina and the bustling Corniche, where you can dine with a view of the Atlantic Ocean. Overnight in Casablanca.

Day 2 Casablanca to Chefchaouen

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the enchanting blue city of Chefchaouen. The journey through the Rif Mountains offers breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities. Arriving in Chefchaouen by the afternoon, you'll check into your hotel and begin your exploration. Stroll through the city's narrow, blue-painted streets, each corner offering a new shade of blue and unique photo opportunities. Visit the Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the main square, where you can relax at a café and watch the world go by. Overnight in Chefchaouen.

Day 3 Full Day Exploration of Chefchaouen

Dedicate a full day to uncovering the hidden gems of Chefchaouen. Start with a visit to the Kasbah Museum in the heart of the medina, which offers insights into the city's history and culture. Wander through the vibrant souks, where you can find local crafts such as woven blankets and intricate pottery. Take a walk to Ras El Maa waterfall, where the cool waters provide a refreshing escape and a perfect spot for relaxation. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like tagine and couscous. Overnight in Chefchaouen.

Day 4 Chefchaouen to Fes via Volubilis and Meknes

Leave Chefchaouen in the morning and head towards Fes, with stops at Volubilis and Meknes. At Volubilis, explore the ancient Roman ruins, marveling at the well-preserved mosaics and grand architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Morocco's Roman past.

Continue to Meknes, where you can visit the impressive Bab Mansour gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the royal stables. Meknes' blend of Islamic and European styles makes it a fascinating stop. Arrive in Fes in the evening and check into your hotel. Overnight in Fes.

Day 5 Full Day Exploration of Fes

Dive into the historical and cultural wonders of Fes. Begin with a visit to the Royal Palace, with its stunning golden gates. Next, enter the labyrinthine streets of the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Al Quaraouiyine University, the oldest university in the world, and the Bou Inania Madrasa, known for its intricate carvings and beautiful courtyard. Wander through the bustling souks, where you can observe traditional artisans at work. Don't miss the Nejjarine Fountain, a beautiful example of Moroccan craftsmanship. Overnight in Fes.

Day 6 Fes to Merzouga

Depart Fes early and journey towards the Sahara Desert. The drive takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains, with a stop in Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style houses and clean, orderly streets. Continue to the cedar forests of Azrou, where you can encounter Barbary macaques. Journey through the lush Ziz Valley, lined with palm groves, before arriving in Merzouga by evening. Here, you will check into a hotel near the dunes, ready for your desert adventure. Overnight in Merzouga.

Day 7 Full Day Exploration of Merzouga

Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert. Begin with a visit to a local nomad family to learn about their way of life, a unique experience that provides insight into traditional Berber culture. Next, head to Khamlia village, where you can enjoy the mesmerizing Gnawa music, a blend of African and Berber rhythms. In the afternoon, embark on a camel trek into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. The sight of the sun setting over the vast desert is truly unforgettable. End your day with dinner and entertainment in a luxury desert camp, surrounded by the serenity of the Sahara. Overnight in the desert camp.

Day 8 Merzouga to Dades Valley

Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes, a truly magical sight. After breakfast, depart Merzouga and travel towards the Dades Valley. En route, stop in Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops, where you can see ancient marine fossils and learn about the area's geological history. Continue to the dramatic Todgha Gorges, where you can take a walk along the towering canyon walls carved by the Todgha River. Arrive in the Dades Valley, known for its stunning rock formations and traditional kasbahs. Overnight in a local guesthouse.

Day 9 Dades Valley to Marrakech via Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate

After breakfast, head towards Marrakech. Stop at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, a fortified village with earthen clay architecture that has appeared in many films. Explore the narrow alleys and climb to the top for panoramic views. Continue to Ouarzazate, where you can visit the Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Film Studios. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka pass, with its stunning views and winding roads, arriving in Marrakech in the evening. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 10 Full Day Exploration of Marrakech

Immerse yourself in the vibrant city of Marrakech. Begin with a visit to the Bahia Palace, a beautiful 19th-century palace with stunning gardens and intricate architecture. Next, explore the Saadian Tombs, which date back to the 16th century. Visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa, one of the largest Islamic schools in North Africa, known for its beautiful courtyard and detailed tile work.

Wander through the bustling souks, where you can find everything from spices to handmade crafts. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the tranquil Majorelle Garden, designed by the artist Jacques Majorelle. End your day with a visit to Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and enjoy local street food. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 11 Marrakech to Tangier via Rabat

Leave Marrakech and travel north to Tangier, stopping in Rabat along the way. In Rabat, visit the Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Morocco, and the Hassan Tower, an incomplete minaret and the remnants of a grand mosque. Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas, a picturesque fortress with stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean. Continue to Tangier, a city with a rich history influenced by various cultures, including Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Europeans. Check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the city's coastal beauty and vibrant nightlife. Overnight in Tangier.

Day 12 Full Day Exploration of Tangier and Departure

Spend your final day exploring Tangier. Visit the Kasbah Museum, which is housed in the former Sultan’s palace and offers a fascinating look at the region's history. Next, head to the American Legation Museum, the only U.S. National Historic Landmark located outside the United States, which tells the story of the historical relations between Morocco and the USA. Explore the Caves of Hercules, a legendary site associated with the mythical hero Hercules. Stroll through the medina, enjoying its unique blend of Moroccan and European architecture, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Socco square. Depending on your departure time, you will be transferred to Tangier airport for your flight home, marking the end of your unforgettable Moroccan adventure

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