12 days desert tour from Casablanca

This is an excellent 12-Day Moroccan Grand Tour that provides a thorough, well-paced experience of the country’s most iconic sites, starting in Casablanca and concluding on the Atlantic coast in Essaouira. The itinerary effectively integrates culture (Imperial Cities), nature (Atlas Mountains, Gorges, Waterfalls), and the unique desert experience, with dedicated time for immersive local encounters (Berber families, souks). The inclusion of the Chefchaouen day trip from Fes allows travelers to capture the “Blue City” without diverting too much from the main desert-traverse route.

• Extensive guided tours of the ancient medinas of Fes (Tanneries, Al-Qarawiyyin) and Marrakech (Bahia Palace, Souks), plus visits to Rabat and Meknes.
• A full-day excursion to the picturesque, blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen.
• An iconic camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes for sunset/sunrise, and an immersive cultural day visiting Berber nomadic families.
• Walking the dramatic 300 meter-high walls of the Todra Gorges and visiting the spectacular Ouzoud Waterfalls.
• Traversing the Middle Atlas (Ifrane, Barbary macaques), crossing the High Atlas via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, and exploring the Dades Valley and Skoura Oasis.
• Spending time in the UNESCO-listed port city of Essaouira, known for its historic ramparts and fresh seafood.
• Experiencing the vibrant energy of Jemaa el-Fna square and the tranquility of the Majorelle Gardens.

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Welcome to Morocco! Upon your arrival in Casablanca, you will be transferred to your hotel. If time permits, you can take an optional tour of the impressive Hassan II Mosque, an architectural marvel uniquely situated on the oceanfront. In the evening, enjoy free time to stroll along the Corniche or sample local cuisine.

Day 2: Casablanca to Fes – Imperial Cities

After an early breakfast, depart for Rabat, the nation’s capital. Visit the Kasbah of the Oudayas, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Hassan Tower. Continue to the imperial city of Meknes to explore its historic ramparts and the majestic Bab Mansour Gate. The day concludes with your arrival in Fes.

Day 3: Guided Tour of Fes – The Ancient Medina

Today is dedicated to discovering Fes el-Bali, the world’s best-preserved medieval medina. A local guide will lead you to key sites like the University of Al-Qarawiyyin, the Andalusian Mosque, and the vibrant souks. A major highlight is visiting the Chouara Tanneries to observe the traditional leather dyeing process. The afternoon is free for further exploration.

Day 4: Fes to Chefchaouen Excursion – The Blue City

Embark on a full-day excursion north to the Rif Massif. Your destination is Chefchaouen, the famous ‘Blue City,’ celebrated for its blue-washed walls and peaceful atmosphere. Wander through its streets, visit Uta el-Hammam Square, and climb to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views. Return to Fes in the late afternoon.

Day 5: Fes to Merzouga Desert – Atlas Crossing

Depart early for the Sahara. Stop in Ifrane, known as ‘the Switzerland of Morocco,’ and the Cedar Forest near Azrou to see Barbary macaques. Continue through the dramatic landscapes to Merzouga, where you will switch to camels for a trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes to reach your Berber camp for the night.

Day 6: Merzouga – Berber Culture and Desert Life

Enjoy a magical sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, visit Berber nomadic families to learn about their traditional lifestyle and share tea. The afternoon offers an optional 4*4 desert excursion or another camel ride at sunset. Overnight in Merzouga, either at a desert-edge hotel or a comfortable camp.

Day 7: Merzouga to Dades Valley – Market and Gorges

Journey to Rissani to explore its vibrant market (market day dependent). Then, proceed to the Todra Gorges, a dramatic canyon with 300 meter-high rock walls, perfect for a walk. Continue to the Dades Valley, the ‘Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,’ for an overnight stay in a traditional kasbah or hotel.

Day 8: Dades Valley to Marrakech – Skoura Oasis and High Atlas

After breakfast, visit the Skoura Oasis to see its verdant palm groves and preserved kasbahs. Then, cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Arrive in Marrakech in the evening, with free time to experience the legendary Jemaa el-Fna square.

Day 9: Guided Tour of Marrakech – The Red City

A guided tour introduces you to Marrakech’s premier attractions: the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs, and the Bahia Palace. Explore the colorful souks and visit the tranquil Majorelle Gardens. The day culminates back in the vibrant Jemaa el-Fna Square.

Day 10: Marrakech – Ouzoud Waterfalls Excursion

Embark on a day trip to the Ouzoud Waterfalls, North Africa’s most impressive cascades. Enjoy scenic walks, observe the local monkeys, or take a boat ride. Return to Marrakech in the afternoon, with the evening free at your leisure.

Day 11: Marrakech to Essaouira – Atlantic Coast

Travel to the coast to discover Essaouira, a UNESCO-listed port city. Explore its active fishing harbor, stroll along its beaches, and wander through its art-filled medina. This is the perfect place to feast on fresh seafood. Overnight in Essaouira.

Day 12: Essaouira – Departure

Enjoy some free time in Essaouira for last-minute shopping or a final coastal walk. You will then be transferred to the airport for your departure, marking the end of your unforgettable Moroccan tour.