8 days desert tour from casablanca

DETAILLED ITINERARY

Day 1: Casablanca

Upon arrival in Casablanca, Morocco’s economic hub, you will be transferred to your hotel. Begin your exploration with a visit to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Take a stroll along the Corniche Ain Diab, a lively promenade lined with cafes and restaurants, offering a glimpse into modern Moroccan life. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before retiring for the night.

Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat to Chefchaouen

Depart Casablanca in the morning and head towards Rabat, Morocco’s capital city. Upon arrival, visit the Royal Palace and explore the ornate Hassan Tower and the nearby ruins of the Chellah Necropolis, offering insights into Morocco’s historical and cultural heritage. After lunch, continue your journey to Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains. Known for its blue-washed buildings and picturesque alleys, Chefchaouen offers a charming atmosphere to explore. Check into your hotel and spend the evening wandering through the medina, filled with handicraft shops and cafes.

Day 3: Chefchaouen to Volubilis to Fes

Start your day with a leisurely exploration of Chefchaouen’s medina, known for its tranquil ambiance and distinct blue hues. Afterward, depart for Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved Roman ruins. Explore the ancient city, including its intricate mosaics and imposing arches, providing a glimpse into Morocco’s Roman past. Continue your journey to Fes, one of the oldest imperial cities in Morocco. Check into your hotel upon arrival and unwind after a day of exploration.

Day 4: Fes

Spend a full day immersing yourself in the cultural and historical richness of Fes. Begin with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Fes Medina, a labyrinthine maze of narrow streets and bustling souks. Explore Al Quaraouiyine University, one of the oldest universities in the world, and visit the nearby tanneries to witness traditional leather-making techniques. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Royal Palace and the Mellah, Fes’ historic Jewish quarter. In the evening, enjoy optional activities such as a traditional Moroccan dinner accompanied by local music and entertainment.

Day 5: Fes to Midelt to Erfoud

Depart Fes in the morning and journey southward towards Erfoud, passing through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains. En route, stop in Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland” for its alpine architecture and lush landscapes. Continue to Midelt, a town famous for its apples and mineral specimens, where you’ll enjoy lunch. Afterward, traverse the Ziz Valley, characterized by its verdant palm groves and desert landscapes, before arriving in Erfoud. Check into your hotel upon arrival and relax for the evening.

Day 6: Erfoud to Merzouga Desert

Begin your day with a visit to Erfoud’s fossil workshops, known for their unique fossilized marine creatures and trilobites. Next, embark on a 4×4 excursion into the Sahara Desert, traveling through the dramatic desert scenery to the dunes of Merzouga. Experience a camel trek into the heart of the desert, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunset over the golden sands. Arrive at your desert camp and enjoy a traditional Berber dinner under the stars, accompanied by local music around a campfire.

Day 7: Merzouga to Ouarzazate

Rise early to witness the magical sunrise over the Sahara Desert before returning to Merzouga village by camel. Depart Merzouga and travel westward through the Draa Valley, known for its extensive date palm groves and fortified kasbahs. Continue your journey to Ouarzazate, often referred to as Morocco’s Hollywood due to its film studios and desert landscapes. Upon arrival, visit the impressive Kasbah Taourirt and explore the Atlas Film Studios, where numerous Hollywood movies have been filmed. Check into your hotel in Ouarzazate and relax for the evening.

Day 8: Ouarzazate to Marrakech

After breakfast, explore more of Ouarzazate, including the Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved mud-brick architecture. Journey through the scenic High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass at an altitude of 2,260 meters, offering panoramic views of the mountainous landscapes. Arrive in Marrakech, Morocco’s vibrant cultural capital, and transfer to your hotel. Spend the evening exploring Djemaa el-Fna square, alive with street performers and bustling markets, before enjoying a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 9: Departure from Marrakech

Depending on your flight time, enjoy some free time in Marrakech to explore the city further or shop for souvenirs at the souks. Transfer to the Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Morocco from Casablanca to the Sahara Desert.