10 Days Desert Tour To Imperial Cities & Coast From Casablanca

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – The Economic Capital

Casablanca – Morocco’s Modern Gateway

Your tour begins in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest and most modern city. Known as the country’s economic hub, Casablanca blends contemporary style with traditional Moroccan culture.

Hassan II Mosque

Start your day with a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Built right on the Atlantic coast, this architectural masterpiece features a 210-meter-tall minaret and intricate marble work. The mosque’s vast prayer hall can hold over 100,000 worshippers and offers breathtaking views of the ocean.

Overnight in Casablanca

After exploring Casablanca, enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at a hotel in the city, preparing for the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat – The Imperial Capital

Rabat – Morocco’s Coastal Gem

Depart Casablanca for Rabat, the political capital of Morocco and one of the country’s imperial cities. Known for its relaxed vibe and historical significance, Rabat offers a perfect balance of culture and modernity.

Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum

Your first stop in Rabat is the iconic Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret that stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history. Nearby, visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, where the former king and his family are buried in a beautiful marble structure, adorned with intricate zellij (tilework).

Kasbah of the Udayas

Stroll through the Kasbah of the Udayas, a historic fortress perched above the Bou Regreg River. The kasbah’s blue-and-white streets, Andalusian Gardens, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean make it a must-visit spot.

Overnight in Rabat

Spend the night in Rabat, staying in a traditional riad or hotel and enjoying the calm coastal ambiance.

Day 3: Rabat to Fes – A Journey into History

Meknes – The Versailles of Morocco

On your way to Fes, stop in Meknes, another imperial city known for its impressive monuments and grandeur. Moulay Ismail, the Sultan of Morocco in the 17th century, built Meknes with grand gates and palaces that earned it the nickname “Versailles of Morocco.”

Bab Mansour Gate and Moulay Ismail Mausoleum

Visit the Bab Mansour Gate, one of the largest and most elaborate gates in Morocco. Then explore the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, where the sultan is buried, an important religious and historical site.

Volubilis – Roman Ruins

Next, stop at Volubilis, an ancient Roman city and UNESCO World Heritage site. The ruins include well-preserved mosaics, columns, and temples that offer a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s Roman past.

Arrival in Fes

By late afternoon, arrive in Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital. Known for its medieval medina, Fes el-Bali, this city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of Moroccan tradition.

Overnight in Fes

Settle in for the night at a charming riad within the medina, preparing for a full day of exploration.

Day 4: Fes – The Cultural Heart of Morocco

Exploring Fes el-Bali – The Ancient Medina

Dedicate your fourth day to exploring Fes el-Bali, the largest and oldest medina in Morocco. This walled city is a maze of narrow streets, vibrant souks, ancient mosques, and madrasas (Islamic schools).

Al Quaraouiyine University and Mosque

Visit the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 AD and considered the oldest continuously operating educational institution in the world. The university is a significant site for Islamic learning and Moroccan history.

Bou Inania Madrasa

Stop at the Bou Inania Madrasa, an exquisite Islamic school known for its intricate carvings, zellij tilework, and peaceful courtyard.

Chouara Tannery

A visit to the Chouara Tannery offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional leather production. Watch as workers use centuries-old methods to dye and treat leather in large vats of colorful dye.

Overnight in Fes

After a day immersed in history and culture, return to your riad for another restful night in Fes.

Day 5: Fes to Merzouga – Entering the Sahara Desert

Middle Atlas Mountains and Cedar Forests

Leave Fes behind and begin your journey toward the Sahara Desert. As you pass through the Middle Atlas Mountains, enjoy stops in Ifrane, known for its European-style architecture and cool climate, and Azrou, famous for its cedar forests and Barbary macaques.

Ziz Valley – A Lush Oasis

Descend into the Ziz Valley, a stunning oasis lined with palm trees and dotted with ancient kasbahs. The valley’s lush greenery contrasts beautifully with the rocky desert landscape.

Arrival in Merzouga – The Edge of the Sahara

By late afternoon, arrive in Merzouga, a small village on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes, some of the tallest sand dunes in Morocco. The endless golden sands signal the start of your desert adventure.

Camel Trek into the Sahara

As the sun begins to set, embark on a camel trek into the heart of the Sahara Desert. The camel ride offers breathtaking views as you traverse the towering dunes, heading toward a traditional Berber camp where you’ll spend the night under the stars.

Dinner and Berber Music Under the Stars

Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at the camp, followed by live Berber music around a campfire. The tranquil beauty of the desert night is an unforgettable experience.

Day 6: Merzouga to Dades Valley – Sunrise Over the Sahara

Sunrise Over the Erg Chebbi Dunes

Wake early to witness the magical sunrise over the Sahara, a truly awe-inspiring sight as the dunes turn golden in the morning light.

Rissani – A Historic Market Town

After breakfast, return to Merzouga by camel and continue to Rissani, a historic town once a major trading post on the ancient caravan routes. Explore its lively souk and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, the founder of the Alaouite dynasty.

Todra Gorge – Morocco’s Grand Canyon

In the afternoon, visit the dramatic Todra Gorge, where towering cliffs rise up to 300 meters, creating a spectacular natural landscape. You’ll have time to explore the gorge and enjoy a scenic walk along the river.

Overnight in Dades Valley

Arrive in the Dades Valley by evening, known for its dramatic rock formations and ancient kasbahs. Spend the night in a local guesthouse, enjoying a traditional dinner.

Day 7: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate – The Road of a Thousand Kasbahs

Dades Valley and Skoura Palm Grove

After breakfast, drive through the Dades Valley, a region dotted with historic kasbahs and stunning rock formations. Stop in the Skoura Palm Grove, a lush oasis with tall palms and old kasbahs, offering a glimpse into rural Moroccan life.

Ouarzazate – The Hollywood of Morocco

Continue to Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco” due to its role as a filming location for many famous movies, including Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia.

Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou

Visit the famous Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s best-preserved kasbahs. This fortified village, made of mudbrick, has been used as a backdrop for numerous films and TV shows.

Overnight in Ouarzazate

Spend the night in Ouarzazate, relaxing in a comfortable hotel after a day of exploring the rich history and landscapes of the region.

Day 8: Ouarzazate to Essaouira – Atlantic Coastline

Tizi n’Tichka Pass – Crossing the High Atlas

On your way to Essaouira, cross the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest road in Morocco, offering spectacular 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, whitewashed buildings, and windswept beaches. Essaouira’s medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a delightful place to explore, with narrow streets filled with artisans and local crafts.

Overnight in Essaouira

Stay overnight in a traditional riad in the heart of Essaouira’s medina, enjoying the coastal ambiance.

Day 9: Exploring Essaouira – The Atlantic Coast

Medina and Fishing Port

Spend the day exploring Essaouira’s medina, a maze of narrow streets filled with shops selling everything from spices to handmade goods. Visit the bustling fishing port, where brightly colored boats come in with the day’s catch.

Skala de la Ville and Beaches

Walk along the Skala de la Ville, the old city ramparts with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The long, sandy beaches of Essaouira are perfect for a relaxing afternoon or a stroll along the coast.

Overnight in Essaouira

Enjoy another night in this peaceful coastal town, soaking in the charm of its seaside setting.

Day 10: Essaouira to Marrakech – The Red City

Drive to Marrakech

On your final day, you’ll drive to Marrakech, Morocco’s vibrant Red City, known for its bustling souks, lively medina, and rich cultural heritage.

Exploring Marrakech

Once in Marrakech, explore the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, a lively hub filled with street performers, musicians, and food stalls. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the city’s largest mosque, and admire the beautiful architecture of Bahia Palace and the serene Majorelle Garden.