12-Day Cultural Coastal and Desert Tour from Casablanca

Day 1: Casablanca – Rabat – Meknes

Begin your journey with a visit to Casablanca, where you’ll explore the grand Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, renowned for its stunning architecture and oceanfront location. Travel to Rabat, Morocco’s capital, to see the Royal Palace, which serves as the official residence of the King. Visit the Chellah ruins, a historical site with Roman and medieval remains, and the Mohammed V Mausoleum, an exquisite example of traditional Moroccan architecture. Don’t miss Hassan Tower, an incomplete minaret with historical significance. After exploring Rabat, continue to Meknes. Enjoy dinner with views of the bustling Bab el Mansour Square, one of Morocco’s most impressive gateways, and stay overnight in a local hotel.

Day 2: Meknes – Volubilis – Fes

After breakfast, tour Meknes, highlighting the grandeur of Bab el Mansour, the Royal Granaries with their ancient storage capabilities, and the city ramparts that once protected the imperial city. Proceed to Volubilis to explore the well-preserved Roman ruins, including mosaics, temples, and the city’s ancient streets. Visit the nearby Moulay Idriss mausoleum, an important pilgrimage site. Continue your journey to Fes, where you’ll spend the night in a local hotel.

Day 3: Fes – Guided City Tour

Discover the ancient Medina of Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas. Start at the Royal Palace gate, then explore the historic Jewish quarter, known for its cultural significance. Visit Al Qaraouine University, considered the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Tour the tanneries, where traditional leather-making techniques are still used, and the Moulay Idriss mausoleum. Enjoy lunch with panoramic views over the Medina and spend the afternoon further exploring Fes, including its souks and artisan workshops.

Day 4: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Merzouga

Depart Fes and head towards Ifrane, often referred to as “Morocco’s Switzerland” for its alpine architecture and clean streets. Continue to Azrou to explore its cedar forests, home to the Barbary macaques. Traverse the scenic Ziz Valley, known for its lush palm groves and dramatic landscape. Make a stop in Erfoud, famous for its fossil production, before reaching Merzouga. Spend the night in a local hotel, preparing for your desert adventure.

Day 5: Merzouga – Khamlia – Rissani – Erg Chebbi

Explore the Erg Chebbi dunes area, starting with a visit to Khamlia village, renowned for its traditional Gnawa music. Enjoy a traditional Berber pizza for lunch in Rissani, a town famous for its vibrant souk and historic importance. In the afternoon, embark on a camel ride across the dunes to watch the sunset over the Sahara. Overnight in a desert camp, where you’ll savor a traditional dinner and listen to Berber music under the starry desert sky.

Day 6: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Gorges

Wake up early to witness the spectacular sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, head to Todra Gorges, the highest gorges in Morocco, where you can enjoy a hike and admire the dramatic rock formations. Continue your journey through the Dades Valley, known for its unique rock formations and scenic beauty. Spend the night in Dades Valley, enjoying the natural surroundings and a local dinner.

Day 7: Dades Gorges – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

After breakfast, travel through the Valley of Roses to Ouarzazate, known for its film studios and historic Kasbahs. Visit Kalaat Mgouna, famous for its rose water products. Continue to Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a classic example of Moroccan earthen architecture. Cross the Tizi-n-Tichka pass, offering breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains, and arrive in Marrakech by evening for an overnight stay.

Day 8 & Day 9: Marrakech Guided Tour

Explore Marrakech’s vibrant culture and history with a guided tour. Visit Jamma el Fna Square, known for its lively atmosphere, street performers, and food stalls. Tour the Koutoubia mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech, and wander through the souks, where you can shop for local crafts and textiles. Discover historical sites such as the Saadian Tombs and El Badi Palace. Enjoy the lush Menara Gardens and the exotic Majorelle Garden, designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle. Explore modern districts like Gueliz and visit local markets.

Day 10 & Day 11: Marrakech – Essaouira

Travel to Essaouira, a coastal city known for its relaxed vibe and historic medina. Explore Essaouira’s medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its well-preserved fortifications and narrow streets. Visit the bustling harbor and the historic Skala de la Ville, offering views of the Atlantic. Enjoy fresh seafood dinners at local restaurants and relax on the city’s sandy beaches. Explore local markets for artisanal goods and enjoy the city’s laid-back atmosphere.

Day 12: Essaouira – Marrakech (Casablanca)

After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Essaouira for last-minute shopping or relaxation. In the afternoon, travel back to Marrakech or Casablanca, depending on your departure plans. End your tour with a final reflection on the diverse landscapes and rich culture experienced throughout Morocco.

The tour price varies based on the number of travelers. Contact us for booking details and pricing information.