10-Day Morocco Tour: Marrakech, Sahara Desert & Atlas Mountains

Arriving in Casablanca? Our service starts at the airport with a private car transfer to the city center. Already in Casablanca? We’ll arrange a meeting at a convenient location, like your hotel.

First stop: the impressive Hassan II Mosque, situated on a reclaimed sea peninsula. It has the honor of being one of the tallest temples in the Islamic world. Its minaret reaches the considerable height of 200 meters. Fortunately, we will be able to visit the interior, as it is one of the few mosques that opens its doors to non-believers.

After visiting the mosque, we will leave for Rabat, about an hour’s drive from Casablanca. It is the capital of the country and one of the imperial cities of Morocco.

Its historic center has been declared a World Heritage Site. Its monuments include the 12th-century Hassan Tower, built in the Almohad style, and the Oudayas Kasbah, from the same period.

From the latter fortress, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city and neighboring Salé, on the other side of the Bu Regreg river.

The visit to this interesting city is free of charge. You will be able to organize your visit according to your wishes and with our advice. Other places of interest are the Mohamed V mausoleum, the medina souk, and the Mohamed VI Museum of Modern Art.

They are all close to the riad where you will spend your first night, since it is located in the center of the city.

After breakfast at your riad in Rabat, our driver will pick you up. You will head north. The Rif mountains, in particular, are home to Chaouen.

Chaouen is often referred to as “the blue city.” It lives on in the minds of visitors because its historic medina is dyed in this characteristic color.

During your stay in Chaouen, you can plan your day at your own pace. It is free. Among the main suggestions are the kasbah, now the ethnographic museum, and the viewpoints with panoramic views of the medina and its surroundings.

It is also worth getting lost in its charming flower-decked alleys, lined with craft shops and local artists’ galleries.

In the evening, you will rest in a riad in the medina, not far from the main square, Uta el Hammam Square, around which there are many charming shops.

On day three, after breakfast in Chaouen, we explore cultural wonders starting with Volubilis, Morocco’s best-preserved Roman site.

Witness Roman remnants—temple columns, mosaics, arches—at Volubilis.

Next: Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its historic medina, maintaining the essence imparted by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century.

Wander through its streets, encountering landmarks like his mausoleum and the majestic gates of the ramparts, including Bab Mansour.

As the day progresses, we make our way to Fez. While the guided tour of its vast medina and lively atmosphere awaits you the next day, you’ll have a sneak peek during the last hours of this day.

Your riad, conveniently located in the city center, provides the perfect starting point for your exploration.

After breakfast in your riad, delve into the heart of Fès, a World Heritage Site and an imperial city, accompanied by our official local guide.

Explore key attractions in the medina, including the ancient Karaouine mosque and its historic university, among the world’s oldest.

Visit Koranic madrasas like Bou Inania and Attarine, as well as Nejjarine Square, the fountain, the vibrant tanners’ quarter, and bustling souks.

Given the vastness of Fès’ historic center, some places of interest are best saved for leisurely exploration in the afternoon.

Consider the Golden Gates of the Royal Palace, the Mellah (Jewish quarter), or museums like the Borj Nord.

Explore Fès’ esteemed craft shops, featuring valuable items like leather goods, woodwork, ceramics, and metalwork. Maximize the day for shopping, then retreat to your riad in the city center.

On the fifth day, our journey takes us from the riad in the heart of Fez on a road trip southward into the desert.

Early ascent to the Middle Atlas slopes, reaching Ifrane, known as ‘Morocco’s Switzerland’ for its Alpine-like architecture.

Ifrane, despite appearances, has a humid climate with abundant snowfall, creating a picturesque winter landscape.

Our next stop is Ifrane National Park, near Azrou, known as the Monkey Forest for its population of endangered Barbary macaques.

The park, filled with cedars, provides a unique habitat for these primates. Continuing our journey through the Middle Atlas, we descend through the Ziz valley, witnessing palm groves and farmland in the midst of arid surroundings.

Erfoud, a small town renowned in the world of paleontology for significant fossil discoveries, follows on our route.

As we press on, we reach Merzouga, the southernmost town on our journey, over 650 km from Casablanca, where our expedition began.

In Merzouga, a change of transport awaits. Dismounting our vehicle, we each take a dromedary to traverse the enchanting sand dunes of the Erg Chebbi, known for their unparalleled texture and color.

After a serene ride, we arrive at our desert camp, where traditional Berber tea welcomes us. Dinner is served, and you’ll retire to a tent adorned with the classic design of desert nomads, offering comfort within.

Outside, a spectacular night sky awaits, showcasing stars with unmatched power and purity.

On the sixth day, bid farewell to the Merzouga desert after the enchanting sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes.

After camp breakfast, ride camels back to Merzouga, with an opportunity for a refreshing shower in a hotel or at the camp, depending on your package.

Journey through winding roads, transitioning to open landscapes characteristic of the Dades Valley and the Route of the Thousand Kasbahs.

Marvel at countless Berber fortresses along the way, passing through the Valley of the Roses, famed for the flower cultivated for economic benefit by the local population.

Our destination is Ouarzazate, where the hotel awaits for dinner and an overnight stay.

Time permitting, a visit to the Taourirt kasbah on the city’s outskirts is on the agenda. Berber fortress, former residence of Thami El Glaoui, Lord of the Atlas and Pasha of Marrakech.

Optional visit to famous film studios based on your schedule. Ouarzazate has been nicknamed “Morocco’s Hollywood” for its role in major film productions.

On day seven of our journey, you will experience a fascinating transition from the desert to the high mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.

After breakfast in Ouarzazate, explore the World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified complex of Berber mud-brick architecture in perfect harmony with the environment.

Ait Ben Haddou is film-famous and well-preserved. Continue by road through the High Atlas to Telouet Kasbah, a unique residence of Thami El Glaoui.

Tizi n’Tichka pass offers a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks and scattered villages.

Descend to Marrakech, arriving in the afternoon. Enjoy a free stroll around the red city and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the medina, where your riad is located.

Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Morocco’s most visited city, beckons with attractions.

Take a guided morning tour to Kutubia mosque, Saadian tombs, Ben Youssef madrasa, and Bahia palace.

Jemaa El-Fna Square is a must-see.

The afternoon is free for museums, Majorelle Gardens, souks, or relaxation.

Your charming riad awaits for a peaceful evening retreat.

The 9-day trip concludes in Marrakech.

Enjoy a final stroll for last-minute shopping if time permits.

After breakfast and check-out, our driver will ensure you reach the airport on time.

We thank you for your trust and look forward to meeting again for more explorations in Morocco.

It’s the end of our 9-day tour: Casablanca imperial cities and desert.

Arriving in Casablanca? Our service starts at the airport with a private car transfer to the city center. Already in Casablanca? We’ll arrange a meeting at a convenient location, like your hotel.

First stop: the impressive Hassan II Mosque, situated on a reclaimed sea peninsula. It has the honor of being one of the tallest temples in the Islamic world. Its minaret reaches the considerable height of 200 meters. Fortunately, we will be able to visit the interior, as it is one of the few mosques that opens its doors to non-believers.

After visiting the mosque, we will leave for Rabat, about an hour’s drive from Casablanca. It is the capital of the country and one of the imperial cities of Morocco.

Its historic center has been declared a World Heritage Site. Its monuments include the 12th-century Hassan Tower, built in the Almohad style, and the Oudayas Kasbah, from the same period.

From the latter fortress, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city and neighboring Salé, on the other side of the Bu Regreg river.

The visit to this interesting city is free of charge. You will be able to organize your visit according to your wishes and with our advice. Other places of interest are the Mohamed V mausoleum, the medina souk, and the Mohamed VI Museum of Modern Art.

They are all close to the riad where you will spend your first night, since it is located in the center of the city.

After breakfast at your riad in Rabat, our driver will pick you up. You will head north. The Rif mountains, in particular, are home to Chaouen.

Chaouen is often referred to as “the blue city.” It lives on in the minds of visitors because its historic medina is dyed in this characteristic color.

During your stay in Chaouen, you can plan your day at your own pace. It is free. Among the main suggestions are the kasbah, now the ethnographic museum, and the viewpoints with panoramic views of the medina and its surroundings.

It is also worth getting lost in its charming flower-decked alleys, lined with craft shops and local artists’ galleries.

In the evening, you will rest in a riad in the medina, not far from the main square, Uta el Hammam Square, around which there are many charming shops.

On day three, after breakfast in Chaouen, we explore cultural wonders starting with Volubilis, Morocco’s best-preserved Roman site.

Witness Roman remnants—temple columns, mosaics, arches—at Volubilis.

Next: Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its historic medina, maintaining the essence imparted by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century.

Wander through its streets, encountering landmarks like his mausoleum and the majestic gates of the ramparts, including Bab Mansour.

As the day progresses, we make our way to Fez. While the guided tour of its vast medina and lively atmosphere awaits you the next day, you’ll have a sneak peek during the last hours of this day.

Your riad, conveniently located in the city center, provides the perfect starting point for your exploration.

After breakfast in your riad, delve into the heart of Fès, a World Heritage Site and an imperial city, accompanied by our official local guide.

Explore key attractions in the medina, including the ancient Karaouine mosque and its historic university, among the world’s oldest.

Visit Koranic madrasas like Bou Inania and Attarine, as well as Nejjarine Square, the fountain, the vibrant tanners’ quarter, and bustling souks.

Given the vastness of Fès’ historic center, some places of interest are best saved for leisurely exploration in the afternoon.

Consider the Golden Gates of the Royal Palace, the Mellah (Jewish quarter), or museums like the Borj Nord.

Explore Fès’ esteemed craft shops, featuring valuable items like leather goods, woodwork, ceramics, and metalwork. Maximize the day for shopping, then retreat to your riad in the city center.

On the fifth day, our journey takes us from the riad in the heart of Fez on a road trip southward into the desert.

Early ascent to the Middle Atlas slopes, reaching Ifrane, known as ‘Morocco’s Switzerland’ for its Alpine-like architecture.

Ifrane, despite appearances, has a humid climate with abundant snowfall, creating a picturesque winter landscape.

Our next stop is Ifrane National Park, near Azrou, known as the Monkey Forest for its population of endangered Barbary macaques.

The park, filled with cedars, provides a unique habitat for these primates. Continuing our journey through the Middle Atlas, we descend through the Ziz valley, witnessing palm groves and farmland in the midst of arid surroundings.

Erfoud, a small town renowned in the world of paleontology for significant fossil discoveries, follows on our route.

As we press on, we reach Merzouga, the southernmost town on our journey, over 650 km from Casablanca, where our expedition began.

In Merzouga, a change of transport awaits. Dismounting our vehicle, we each take a dromedary to traverse the enchanting sand dunes of the Erg Chebbi, known for their unparalleled texture and color.

After a serene ride, we arrive at our desert camp, where traditional Berber tea welcomes us. Dinner is served, and you’ll retire to a tent adorned with the classic design of desert nomads, offering comfort within.

Outside, a spectacular night sky awaits, showcasing stars with unmatched power and purity.

On the sixth day, bid farewell to the Merzouga desert after the enchanting sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes.

After camp breakfast, ride camels back to Merzouga, with an opportunity for a refreshing shower in a hotel or at the camp, depending on your package.

Journey through winding roads, transitioning to open landscapes characteristic of the Dades Valley and the Route of the Thousand Kasbahs.

Marvel at countless Berber fortresses along the way, passing through the Valley of the Roses, famed for the flower cultivated for economic benefit by the local population.

Our destination is Ouarzazate, where the hotel awaits for dinner and an overnight stay.

Time permitting, a visit to the Taourirt kasbah on the city’s outskirts is on the agenda. Berber fortress, former residence of Thami El Glaoui, Lord of the Atlas and Pasha of Marrakech.

Optional visit to famous film studios based on your schedule. Ouarzazate has been nicknamed “Morocco’s Hollywood” for its role in major film productions.

On day seven of our journey, you will experience a fascinating transition from the desert to the high mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.

After breakfast in Ouarzazate, explore the World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified complex of Berber mud-brick architecture in perfect harmony with the environment.

Ait Ben Haddou is film-famous and well-preserved. Continue by road through the High Atlas to Telouet Kasbah, a unique residence of Thami El Glaoui.

Tizi n’Tichka pass offers a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks and scattered villages.

Descend to Marrakech, arriving in the afternoon. Enjoy a free stroll around the red city and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the medina, where your riad is located.

Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Morocco’s most visited city, beckons with attractions.

Take a guided morning tour to Kutubia mosque, Saadian tombs, Ben Youssef madrasa, and Bahia palace.

Jemaa El-Fna Square is a must-see.

The afternoon is free for museums, Majorelle Gardens, souks, or relaxation.

Your charming riad awaits for a peaceful evening retreat.

The 9-day trip concludes in Marrakech.

Enjoy a final stroll for last-minute shopping if time permits.

After breakfast and check-out, our driver will ensure you reach the airport on time.

We thank you for your trust and look forward to meeting again for more explorations in Morocco.

It’s the end of our 9-day tour: Casablanca imperial cities and desert.