12 Days From Casablanca Cultural Coastal And Desert Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Introduction to Morocco

Exploring Casablanca – The Modern Face of Morocco

Your Moroccan adventure begins in Casablanca, the country’s economic hub. Known for its blend of modernity and tradition, Casablanca serves as the perfect starting point.

Hassan II Mosque

Start your exploration with a visit to the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Its stunning location on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, combined with its intricate architecture, makes it a must-see.

Overnight in Casablanca

After exploring Casablanca, rest for the night in a comfortable hotel, preparing for the exciting journey ahead.

Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat – The Capital of Morocco

Rabat – A Historic and Modern Blend

Leave Casablanca and head to Rabat, Morocco’s political and administrative capital. This coastal city offers a mix of historical sites and a relaxed vibe.

Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum

Visit the famous Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret from the 12th century, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, where the Moroccan king and his family are buried. The mausoleum’s beautiful architecture and peaceful ambiance make it a top attraction in Rabat.

Kasbah of the Udayas

Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas, an ancient fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The blue-and-white streets, lush Andalusian gardens, and views of the ocean create a serene atmosphere.

Overnight in Rabat

Enjoy a relaxing evening in Rabat, staying in a local riad or hotel.

Day 3: Rabat to Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl

Travel to Chefchaouen – The Blue City of Morocco

Depart Rabat and head towards Chefchaouen, a picturesque town nestled in the Rif Mountains. Known for its striking blue-washed buildings, Chefchaouen offers a peaceful retreat from the busier cities.

Exploring Chefchaouen’s Medina

Spend the afternoon wandering the charming streets of Chefchaouen. The medina’s blue hues, vibrant markets, and laid-back atmosphere make it a perfect place to unwind and explore.

Ras El Maa Waterfall

Visit the Ras El Maa Waterfall, located on the outskirts of the town. This tranquil spot offers a refreshing break and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Overnight in Chefchaouen

Stay in a traditional guesthouse in the heart of the blue medina, enjoying the unique ambiance of this mountain town.

Day 4: Chefchaouen to Fes – History and Culture

Volubilis – Roman Ruins

On your way to Fes, stop at Volubilis, an ancient Roman city and UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the well-preserved ruins, including mosaics, columns, and temples, which provide insight into Morocco’s Roman past.

Meknes – The Imperial City

Next, visit Meknes, another of Morocco’s imperial cities. Known for its grand architecture and historical importance, Meknes was once the capital of Morocco under Sultan Moulay Ismail.

Bab Mansour and El Hedim Square

See the impressive Bab Mansour Gate, one of the largest and most decorated gates in Morocco, and explore the lively El Hedim Square, where locals gather to shop and socialize.

Arrival in Fes

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital. Known for its rich history and labyrinthine medina, Fes is a city that feels like stepping back in time.

Overnight in Fes

Stay in a traditional riad in the heart of the medina, preparing for a full day of exploration.

Day 5: Fes – Exploring the Ancient Medina

Fes el-Bali – The Old Medina

Day five is dedicated to exploring Fes el-Bali, the largest and oldest medina in Morocco. Its narrow streets, vibrant souks, and ancient mosques provide a rich cultural experience.

Al Quaraouiyine University

Visit the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest existing and continually operating educational institution in the world. Though non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, the architecture is worth admiring from the outside.

Bou Inania Madrasa

Explore the stunning Bou Inania Madrasa, known for its exquisite tilework, carved plaster, and serene courtyard.

Chouara Tannery

Watch traditional leather-making techniques at the Chouara Tannery, where colorful dye-filled pits are used to treat leather in a centuries-old process.

Overnight in Fes

Enjoy another night in Fes, soaking in the medina’s unique energy.

Day 6: Fes to Merzouga – Entering the Sahara Desert

Crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains

Begin your journey to the Sahara Desert by traveling through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture, and Azrou, famous for its cedar forests and Barbary apes.

Ziz Valley – A Desert Oasis

Pass through the Ziz Valley, a lush oasis filled with date palms and ancient kasbahs. The valley’s greenery offers a striking contrast to the surrounding desert landscape.

Arrival in Merzouga – Gateway to the Sahara

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, a small village on the edge of the towering Erg Chebbi dunes. These golden sand dunes signal the start of your desert adventure.

Camel Trek to the Desert Camp

As the sun sets, embark on a camel trek into the Sahara. The camel ride takes you deep into the desert, where you’ll arrive at a traditional Berber camp for the night.

Dinner and Berber Music Under the Stars

After a traditional Moroccan dinner, enjoy Berber music and storytelling around a campfire under the starlit sky.

Day 7: Merzouga to Todra Gorge – Sunrise Over the Sahara

Sunrise Over the Erg Chebbi Dunes

Wake up early to witness the stunning sunrise over the Sahara, as the first light of day casts golden hues across the sand dunes.

Rissani – A Historic Market Town

On your way to the Todra Gorge, stop in Rissani, a historic town that was once an important trading hub. Explore its lively souk, filled with spices, crafts, and local produce.

Todra Gorge – Towering Cliffs and Scenic Beauty

Arrive at the Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon with cliffs rising up to 300 meters. Take a leisurely walk along the riverbed and admire the towering rock walls.

Overnight in Todra Gorge

Spend the night in a guesthouse near the gorge, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Day 8: Todra Gorge to Ouarzazate – The Road of 1,000 Kasbahs

Dades Valley – The Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs

Drive through the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic rock formations and ancient kasbahs. Stop for panoramic views and explore the local Berber villages.

Skoura Oasis

Continue through the Skoura Oasis, a lush palm grove dotted with historical kasbahs. The area’s beauty and tranquility make it an ideal stop for photos and exploration.

Arrival in Ouarzazate

Arrive in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco” due to its role as a filming location for many famous movies. Visit the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s best-preserved kasbahs.

Overnight in Ouarzazate

Spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Ouarzazate, relaxing after a day of exploration.

Day 9: Ouarzazate to Essaouira – The Atlantic Coast

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains

On your way to Essaouira, cross the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest road in Morocco, offering stunning views of the High Atlas Mountains.

Arrival in Essaouira – The Windy City

Arrive in Essaouira, a charming coastal town known for its laid-back vibe, historic medina, and windswept beaches. Essaouira’s medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a perfect place to explore the artisan shops and local crafts.

Overnight in Essaouira

Spend the night in a traditional riad in Essaouira, enjoying the relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Day 10: Exploring Essaouira – A Seaside Gem

Medina and Fishing Port

Spend the day exploring Essaouira’s medina, with its narrow streets filled with shops selling everything from spices to handcrafted goods. Visit the bustling fishing port, where you can watch local fishermen bring in their catch of the day.

Skala de la Ville

Walk along the Skala de la Ville, the historic city ramparts offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The combination of the city’s architecture and the ocean breeze creates a refreshing experience.

Overnight in Essaouira

Enjoy another night in this coastal haven, soaking in the sea air and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 11: Essaouira to Marrakech – The Red City

Drive to Marrakech

Depart Essaouira and head to Marrakech, known for its bustling souks, lively medina, and stunning historical landmarks.

Exploring Marrakech’s Sights

Spend your first evening in Marrakech exploring the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, a lively hub filled with street performers, musicians, and food vendors.

Overnight in Marrakech

Stay in a luxurious riad in the medina, preparing for your final day of exploration.

Day 12: Marrakech – A Day in the Red City

Koutoubia Mosque

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech, known for its towering minaret and beautiful gardens.

Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs

Explore the exquisite Bahia Palace, a 19th-century palace featuring ornate tilework and lush gardens. Nearby, visit the Saadian Tombs, an important historical site where members of the Saadian dynasty are buried.

Majorelle Garden

End your tour with a peaceful stroll through the Majorelle Garden, a botanical garden filled with exotic plants and bright blue buildings, once owned by the French designer Yves Saint Laurent.