12 Days Morocco Tour from Casablanca
12 Days Morocco Tour from Casablanca
Overview:
In this 12 days Morocco tour from Casablanca, you will go on a journey through Morocco vibrant cities, charming villages, and stunning landscapes. Starting in Casablanca, the “white” city, the tour takes you to Rabat and the picturesque blue alleys of Chefchaouen. You’ll explore the historical treasures of Volubilis, Meknes, and Fes, and then journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains, visiting Ifrane, Azrou, and Midelt before reaching Merzouga. Here, you’ll experience the unique culture of the Gnawa musicians in Khamlia, visit a nomad family, and enjoy a camel trek to a Berber camp for an unforgettable night under the desert stars.
Continuing the adventure, you’ll visit Erfoud, the breathtaking Todra Gorges, and the scenic Dades Gorges. Explore Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa,” and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou. After crossing the majestic High Atlas Mountains, you’ll arrive in Marrakech to immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere. The journey concludes with a visit to the coastal city of Essaouira for relaxation and exploration before returning to Casablanca airport, marking the end of your incredible Moroccan adventure. Book your trip today!
Itinerary:
Day 1: Welcome to Casablanca Airport
Upon arrival at Mohamed 5 airport in Casablanca, your driver/guide will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel. Settle in for an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2: Casablanca – Rabat – Chefchaouen
At 8:00 AM, you will begin your exploration of Casablanca, the “white” city where culture and economy intersect. Your visit includes the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Casablanca. After exploring other notable sites in the city, you will travel to Rabat, the capital of Morocco, located along the Atlantic Ocean. In Rabat, you’ll visit landmarks like the Bad Challah, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the main gate of the royal palace, and the Oudaya Kasbah. Lunch will be at a local restaurant before we drive towards the blue city of Chefchaouen.
On the way to Chefchaouen, we will pass through several small towns and take breaks as needed. Arriving in Chefchaouen early, you’ll have ample time to stroll through the blue alleys of the medina, capture beautiful photos, and savor the local cuisine. This enchanting day of the 12 days Morocco tour from Casablanca concludes with an overnight stay in a hotel.
Day 3: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Fes
In the morning, at 9:00 AM, we go on our journey to Fes. Prior to reaching Fes, our first stop will be the historical site of Volubilis. Guided by a local expert, we will explore the ancient ruins. Next, we’ll proceed to Meknes for a sightseeing tour. Meknès, often dubbed as “the Moroccan Versailles”, showcases the grandeur of Sultan Moulay Ismail, highlighted by the imposing Bab-El-Mansour Gate. Our tour includes visits to the majestic gate of Bad Mansour, the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, Sahrij, and the Jewish quarter. Following a delightful lunch at a local restaurant within the old medina of Fes, we continue our journey to Fes, where we’ll spend the night in a riad nestled within the medina. This marks another memorable day of the 12 days desert tour from Casablanca.
Day 4: Exploring Fes with a Local Guide
After a hearty breakfast, go on an enchanting exploration of Fes, the oldest city in Morocco, where narrow alleys and winding streets await your discovery. The mysterious medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will captivate you with its timeless charm. Our journey commences with a visit to the Royal Palace gate, followed by the historic Jewish quarter and the revered Mellah, Morocco first Jewish quarter dating back to the 14th century. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry as we explore renowned landmarks such as the esteemed Al Karaouine University, hailed as the world’s oldest university, the vibrant Tanneries, and the solemn Moulay Idriss mausoleum. After indulging in a sumptuous lunch at a traditional Moroccan eatery, we’ll venture to a local tiles cooperative to witness skilled artisans at work. Finally, savor a mesmerizing panoramic vista of the entire Medina of Fes. Retreat to the comfort of your riad for a restful overnight stay, reflecting on the day’s cultural immersion and historical wonders. This marks another unforgettable chapter of the 12 days Morocco desert tour from Casablanca.
Day 5: Fes – Ilfrane – Azrou – Midelt – Merzouga Desert
As the first rays of dawn illuminate the horizon, go on a journey through the captivating landscapes of the Middle Atlas via Ifrane, fondly referred to as the “Moroccan Switzerland,” and Azrou. Pause amidst the serene cedar forest to marvel at the majestic Cedre Gouraud Tree, home to playful Barbary apes. Continuing southward, traverse quaint towns and encounter nomadic communities residing in traditional tents along the way, offering a glimpse into their centuries-old way of life. Admire the rugged beauty of volcanic rock formations as we journey onward to Midelt, where a delectable lunch awaits.
Afterward, ascend the breathtaking Tizi N’Talghomt Pass (1907 m), treating your senses to panoramic vistas of the surrounding terrain. Traverse the dramatic Ziz Gorge and its tunnel, before arriving near Errachidia, where the azure waters of Barrage Hassan Al-Dakhil shimmer in the sunlight. Pause to admire the picturesque Aoufous palm trees lining the Ziz River before continuing our odyssey to Erfoud. In route to Merzouga, marvel at the oasis of Tafilalet, the largest date palm grove in Morocco, as it unfurls before you. Arriving in the enchanting village of Merzouga in the afternoon, settle into your riad for a night of relaxation and rejuvenation, as you relish in the culinary delights of dinner and the tranquility of the desert night. This marks yet another memorable chapter of the 12 days Morocco tour from Casablanca.
Day 6: Explore Merzouga area
After indulging in a hearty breakfast at the hotel, go on a captivating journey into the heart of the desert. Visit nomadic communities in their traditional tents, gaining insights into their resilient way of life. Then, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Gnaoua people, experiencing their captivating music and learning about their customs. Depending on the season, explore the stunning beauty of Merzouga lake, home to a variety of bird species, including elegant flamingos.
In the afternoon, prepare for an unforgettable camel trek through the mesmerizing dunes of Erg Chebbi. Arrive at a Berber camp nestled amidst the golden sands, where cozy tents equipped with modern amenities await. Enjoy a sumptuous nomadic Berber dinner under the star-studded sky, serenaded by traditional drum beats. It’s a night of enchantment and memories, marking another unforgettable chapter of the 12 days desert tour from Casablanca.
Day 7: Merzouga Desert – Rissani – Todra Gorges – Dades Gorges
Awaken early to witness the breathtaking sunrise atop the Sahara desert dunes, a moment of pure magic. After breakfast, return to the hotel on camelback for a refreshing shower to invigorate your senses. Our journey continues towards Tinghir, passing through Erfoud and Tinejdad, where we’ll pause for a delightful lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll venture onward to Todra Gorges via Tinghir, treated to a kaleidoscope of landscapes from expansive deserts to verdant valleys and towering palm trees. Along the way, we’ll make stops to capture the beauty of our surroundings through photographs. Upon reaching Todra Gorges, we’ll embark on an exhilarating hike, marveling at the majestic canyon views. Finally, we’ll conclude our day’s adventure in the enchanting Dades Valley, where a delectable dinner awaits, marking another memorable chapter of the 12 days Morocco tour from Casablanca.
Day 8: Dades Gorges – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – Marrakech
Following breakfast, our journey resumes as we traverse the picturesque Dades Valley towards Kelaat Mgouna and Ouarzazate. Along this route, known as the way of the thousand Kasbahs, countless opportunities for stunning photographs await. En route, we’ll explore the Roses Valley and the charming Skoura village before arriving in Ouarzazate, renowned as the “Hollywood of Africa”. Indulge in a delectable lunch at the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, the largest of its kind in Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continuing our adventure, we’ll navigate the majestic Tizi n’Tichka pass, ascending to an altitude of 2260m above the High Atlas Mountains. Here, we’ll pause to revel in the breathtaking scenery and pay a visit to an argan oil cooperative. As the day draws to a close, we’ll arrive in Marrakech, where an overnight stay in a charming riad awaits, marking yet another captivating chapter of the 12 days Morocco tour from Casablanca.
Day 9: Exploring Marrakech with a Local Guide
Following a delightful breakfast at the riad, go on an exploration of Marrakech, often referred to as “the red city of Morocco“. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you to the most significant sites of historical and cultural importance, including the Saadian tombs, the Palaces of El Bahia and El Badi, and the renowned Ben Youssef Coranique school. A delectable lunch awaits you at a charming restaurant near the bustling square. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the majestic gardens at Majorelle and Menara, followed by a visit to the iconic Koutoubia tower. As the day draws to a close, retire to your riad for an overnight stay, reflecting on the rich tapestry of experiences encountered during the 12 days tour from Casablanca.
Day 10: Marrakech – Essaouira
This morning, following a delightful breakfast, we bid farewell to Marrakech, “the red city”, and set forth towards Essaouira, the charming old Portuguese city. Nestled along the Atlantic coast, Essaouira boasts crenelated walls and picturesque houses adorned with white and blue facades, earning it the moniker “the Bride of the Atlantic”. Along the way, you may have the opportunity to visit an Argan factory run by local women, gaining insight into the traditional process of crafting Argan oil. Upon arrival, delve into the bustling port of Essaouira and savor a delectable seafood lunch within the enchanting confines of the medina. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to indulge in personal exploration, whether it be swimming in the azure waters or unwinding upon the sun-kissed shores. As evening descends, relish a sumptuous meal before retiring for the night in a traditional Riad, reflecting on the captivating experiences encountered during the 12 days tour from Casablanca.
Day 11: Free day in Essaouira
Following breakfast, you will enjoy a leisurely day to explore the remaining treasures of Essaouira at your own pace. Whether wandering through the charming alleys of the medina, discovering hidden gems tucked away in the souks, or simply relaxing amidst the coastal ambiance, the day is yours to embrace as you wish. As the sun sets, return to the comfort of your Riad for a tranquil overnight stay, cherishing the memories created during your 12 days Morocco tour from Casablanca.
Day 12: Essaouira to Casablanca airport
After indulging in a delicious breakfast, we will embark on the final leg of our journey, driving to Casablanca airport, marking the conclusion of your memorable 12 days desert tour from Casablanca.
Included
- Private tour & Transportation with A/C and seat-belt.
- Pick you up & drop you off at Casablanca airport.
- 8 nights hotel accommodation & breakfast in Casablanca, Chefchaouen, Fez, Marrakech & Essaouira.
- 2 nights hotel accommodation, dinner & breakfast in Merzouga & Dades Valley (Vegetarians are welcome).
- 1 night accommodation in desert camp.
- Experienced driver/guide English speaking.
- Local guide in Fez & Marrakech.
- Fuel, tolls and all associated expenses.
- Camel warden.
- Camel ride for 1 hour. (If you are not interested to ride the camels, it is possible to drive you to the camp with the 4×4).
- Sand boards (available in the camp without charge).
Not Included
- Airfare (Flight Ticket)
Noon meal. (Possibility of picnic or restaurants). - Dinners in Casablanca, Chefchaouen, Fez, Marrakech & Essaouira.
- Drinks at the meals.
- Tips and personal miscellaneous expenses.
- Entry fees to Monuments / Museums / Kasbahs
- Travel insurance
- Anything not mentioned in the program