8 Days Tour To Marrakech City Via Fes & Desert From Casablanca

Day 1: Casablanca – The Gateway to Morocco

Exploring Casablanca – Morocco’s Economic Hub

Your adventure begins in Casablanca, the largest city in Morocco and the country’s economic center. Known for its modernity, Casablanca is a great starting point to explore Morocco’s mix of the old and the new.

Hassan II Mosque

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, with a towering minaret visible from miles away. Built right on the Atlantic Ocean, the mosque’s architecture is a masterpiece of intricate design and craftsmanship. Its grand size and oceanfront location make it one of Morocco’s most visited landmarks.

Rick’s Café and the Corniche

After exploring the mosque, take a walk along the Corniche, a beautiful seaside promenade, and enjoy lunch at Rick’s Café, a famous restaurant inspired by the classic movie Casablanca.

Overnight in Casablanca

After a day of exploration, you’ll spend the night in Casablanca, resting for the exciting journey ahead.

Day 2: Casablanca to Fes – Discovering Imperial Cities

Rabat – The Capital City

Leave Casablanca behind and head toward Rabat, the political and administrative capital of Morocco. This imperial city is a blend of historic charm and modern elegance.

Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum

In Rabat, visit the majestic Hassan Tower, an incomplete minaret of a 12th-century mosque. Just next door, you’ll find the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a beautiful resting place for the Moroccan king and his family, known for its detailed marble work and serene ambiance.

Kasbah of the Udayas

Explore the charming Kasbah of the Udayas, a historic fortress with blue-and-white streets and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a peaceful corner of Rabat that feels worlds away from the bustling city.

Arrival in Fes

In the late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Fes, one of Morocco’s most culturally significant cities. Known for its medieval medina and historical richness, Fes is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major destination on this tour.

Overnight in Fes

Spend the night in a traditional riad in the heart of the medina, enjoying authentic Moroccan hospitality.

Day 3: Fes – Exploring the Spiritual and Cultural Heart of Morocco

Fes el-Bali – The Ancient Medina

Your third day is dedicated to exploring the labyrinthine streets of Fes el-Bali, the oldest walled part of Fes and a living museum of Moroccan culture and history.

Al Quaraouiyine University

Visit the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 AD and recognized as the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Though non-Muslims are not allowed inside the mosque, the exterior offers a glimpse into its architectural beauty.

Bou Inania Madrasa

Explore the magnificent Bou Inania Madrasa, a stunning example of Marinid architecture with intricate zellij tilework, carved plaster, and an elegant courtyard.

Chouara Tannery

No visit to Fes is complete without seeing the famous Chouara Tannery, where centuries-old leather dyeing methods are still in use. The colorful dyeing pits and surrounding leather shops are a signature sight of Fes.

Overnight in Fes

After a day full of exploration, enjoy another night in your riad, experiencing the rich ambiance of the ancient city.

Day 4: Fes to Merzouga – Journey to the Sahara Desert

Ifrane – The Switzerland of Morocco

Your journey continues with a scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, with a stop in Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its European-style architecture and cool climate. Take some time to stroll through this mountain town and enjoy its clean air and lush parks.

Azrou – Cedar Forests and Barbary Apes

Next, pass through Azrou, known for its dense cedar forests and friendly Barbary macaques. You’ll stop to interact with the monkeys and admire the beautiful cedar trees that make this region famous.

Ziz Valley – Gateway to the Desert

After lunch, continue your journey through the Ziz Valley, a lush oasis filled with date palms and fortified villages. The valley’s greenery contrasts beautifully with the desert landscapes on the horizon.

Arrival in Merzouga – The Edge of the Sahara

By late afternoon, you’ll reach Merzouga, a small village nestled at the foot of the towering Erg Chebbi dunes. These dunes, rising as high as 150 meters, mark the beginning of your desert adventure.

Camel Trek into the Sahara

As the sun sets, you’ll embark on a memorable camel trek into the Sahara Desert. Riding camels across the vast golden dunes as the sky changes colors is an experience like no other. You’ll arrive at a traditional Berber camp, where you’ll spend the night under the stars in a nomadic tent.

Dinner and Berber Music Under the Stars

After a traditional Moroccan dinner, relax around a campfire and enjoy Berber music under the sparkling desert sky.

Day 5: Merzouga to Todra Gorge – Sunrise Over the Sahara

Sunrise Over the Erg Chebbi Dunes

Wake early to witness the magical sunrise over the Sahara, as the first light of day casts golden hues across the endless dunes. After breakfast at the camp, you’ll ride your camel back to Merzouga.

Rissani – A Historic Market Town

On the way to the Todra Gorge, you’ll stop at Rissani, a historic town known for its bustling souk and ties to the ancient trans-Saharan trade routes. You’ll have time to explore the market and see the local crafts, spices, and produce.

Todra Gorge – Morocco’s Grand Canyon

In the afternoon, arrive at the dramatic Todra Gorge, where sheer rock walls rise up to 300 meters above a narrow river. The natural beauty of the gorge makes it a popular spot for hiking and photography. You’ll have time to explore the area and take in the stunning scenery.

Overnight in Todra Gorge

Spend the night in a guesthouse near the gorge, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views.

Day 6: Todra Gorge to Ouarzazate – The Road of 1,000 Kasbahs

Dades Valley – The Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs

After breakfast, you’ll drive through the Dades Valley, famous for its dramatic rock formations and numerous kasbahs. Known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” it’s a visually striking region where you can see traditional Berber villages and fortified homes.

Skoura Palm Grove

Continue to the Skoura Palm Grove, a large oasis filled with date palms and ancient kasbahs. It’s a perfect place for a scenic stop and a glimpse into traditional Moroccan life.

Arrival in Ouarzazate

In the late afternoon, arrive in Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Hollywood of Morocco” due to its film studios and cinematic landscapes. Visit the famous Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most well-preserved kasbahs.

Overnight in Ouarzazate

Spend the night in a charming hotel in Ouarzazate, enjoying a relaxing evening.

Day 7: Ouarzazate to Marrakech – Over the High Atlas Mountains

Tizi n’Tichka Pass – Crossing the High Atlas

On your final full day of the tour, you’ll cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest road pass in Morocco, offering stunning views of the High Atlas Mountains. As you descend towards Marrakech, the landscape changes dramatically, with snow-capped peaks giving way to fertile plains.

Arrival in Marrakech – The Red City

Arrive in Marrakech, Morocco’s bustling and vibrant Red City. Known for its lively medina, sprawling souks, and historic landmarks, Marrakech is a city that never sleeps.

Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

Spend the evening exploring Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s main square, filled with musicians, snake charmers, storytellers, and food stalls. It’s an unforgettable sensory experience that captures the essence of Marrakech.

Overnight in Marrakech

Stay in a luxurious riad within the medina, experiencing the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Day 8: Marrakech – Exploring the Red City

Exploring Marrakech’s Landmarks

Dedicate your final day to discovering the treasures of Marrakech, starting with a visit to the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in the city with a beautiful minaret that dominates the skyline.

Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs

Next, visit the Bahia Palace, a stunning 19th-century palace known for its intricate tilework and lush gardens. You’ll also explore the Saadian Tombs, where members of the Saadian dynasty are buried in beautifully decorated mausoleums.

Majorelle Garden

Take a peaceful stroll through the Majorelle Garden, a botanical garden once owned by French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The garden’s bright blue buildings and exotic plants create a serene oasis in the heart of the city.