8 Days Desert Tour from Casablanca
8 Days Desert Tour from Casablanca
Overview:
The 8 days desert tour from Casablanca, where you’ll explore Morocco vibrant cities and charming traditional villages, marvel at its natural beauty, and experience the warm hospitality of the desert people. Starting in the iconic “white” city of Casablanca, we’ll journey to Rabat, Meknes, and Fes, immersing you in the rich history and culture of Morocco.
After delving into the ancient wonders of Fes, we continue to Ifrane, Azrou, and Midelt, before reaching the enchanting sands of Merzouga. Here, your camel ride to a Berber camp awaits, offering a night under the stars and a taste of the nomadic Berber lifestyle.
Our adventure then takes us to Erfoud, Tinghir, and the breathtaking Todra Gorges, followed by the dramatic landscapes of Dades Gorges. We’ll visit Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” and explore the historic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Crossing the majestic High Atlas Mountains, we arrive in the vibrant city of Marrakech. After uncovering the wonders of Marrakech, our journey concludes with a transfer to the airport. Book your trip today!
Itinerary:
Day 1: Welcome to Casablanca Airport
Upon arrival at Casablanca Mohammed V Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Casablanca, the “white” city, is a vibrant hub where culture and economy intersect. Our representative will greet you and provide a brief overview of your 8 days desert tour from Casablanca. Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel as you prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
Day 2: Casablanca – Rabat – Meknes – Fes
Depart for Fes. The journey to Fes takes us through picturesque farmlands where olives, grains, vegetables, and grapes thrive. Before arriving in Fes, you will visit the historic cities of Meknes and Volubilis. In Volubilis, explore the famous Roman ruins of the Roman Empire’s southernmost outpost. Meknes, founded by Moulay Ismail, is known as “the Moroccan Versailles.” It symbolizes the power of Sultan Moulay Ismail, with its grand architecture epitomized by the Bab-El-Mansour Gate. We’ll also visit Heri es-Souani, the horse stables and granaries, and enjoy the rooftop garden and café with stunning city views. We will then continue to Fes for an overnight stay in a charming riad, marking another highlight of your 8 days desert tour from Casablanca.
Day 3: Exploring Fes with a Local guide
After breakfast, you’ll begin exploring the oldest city in Morocco by strolling through its winding alleys and narrow streets. Fes will enchant you with its mysterious medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our tour starts with a visit to the Royal Palace gate and the Jewish quarter, home to Morocco’s first Mellah, built in the 14th century.
We’ll ensure you see all sites of cultural and historical significance, including the famous Al Karaouine University, considered the oldest university in the world, the vibrant Tanneries, and the revered Moulay Idriss mausoleum. After enjoying lunch at a traditional Moroccan restaurant, we’ll visit a tile cooperative and then take in a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Medina of Fes. End the day with an overnight stay in a charming riad, part of your unforgettable 8 days tour from Casablanca.
Day 4: Fes – Ilfrane – Azrou – Midelt – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast we will start the journey through the Middle Atlas via Ifrane, known as the “Moroccan Switzerland,” and Azrou on this 8 days Morocco tour from Casablanca. Stop at the cedar forest to visit the Cedre Gouraud Tree and observe Barbary apes. As we travel further south, pass by quaint towns and witness nomads living in tents, surrounded by volcanic rocks. The landscape transforms, offering breathtaking views of mountains, green valleys, and palm trees until we reach the edge of the desert.
Our next stop is in Midelt, where you’ll enjoy lunch before continuing our drive. Cross the Tizi N’Talghomt Pass (1907 m) for panoramic views, pass through Ziz Gorge and its tunnel, and near Errachidia, admire the turquoise waters of Barrage Hassan Al-Dakhil. On the way to Erfoud, pause for a panoramic view of Aoufous palm trees along the Ziz River. Our journey then takes us to Merzouga, a charming village known as a gateway to the Sahara.
Here, camels will join us for a trek to a Berber camp in the Erg Chebbi sand dunes. Spanning 20 km long and 5 km wide, these dunes are the highest in North Africa, creating a unique and diverse environment. After a 1.5-hour camel trek, arrive at the camp, where Berber tents await. Enjoy a nomadic Berber dinner as the sun sets behind the dunes, followed by traditional Berber drumming under the stars. It’s a night you’ll cherish forever on your 8 days desert tour from Casablanca.
Day 5: Merzouga Desert – Todra Gorges – Dades Gorges
Wake up early in the morning to witness the breathtaking sunrise atop the Sahara desert dunes, a highlight of your 8 days desert tour from Casablanca. After soaking in these magical moments, enjoy a hearty breakfast. Then, ride your camel back to the hotel for a refreshing shower.
We’ll depart towards Tinghir, passing through Erfoud and Tinejdad, with a lunch break along the way. In the afternoon, we’ll continue to Todra Gorges via Tinghir, stopping for photos and marveling at the landscape. Upon reaching Todra Gorges, delight in the stunning canyon views while hiking. Finally, we’ll arrive in the Dades Valley, where dinner awaits and you’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
Day 6: Dades Gorges – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech
After breakfast, we will embark on a scenic drive through the Dades Valley towards Kelaat Mgouna and Ouarzazate. The route, known as the way of the thousand Kasbahs, offers numerous photo opportunities amidst stunning landscapes. We’ll visit the Roses Valley and Skoura village before reaching Ouarzazate, famously dubbed “the Hollywood of Africa.” Enjoy lunch at the renowned Ait Ben Haddou kasbah, the largest Kasbah in Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Continuing our journey, we’ll traverse the majestic Tizi n’Tichka pass, reaching an altitude of 2260m, over the High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, we’ll pause to admire the impressive scenery and visit an argan oil cooperative. Finally, we’ll arrive in Marrakech late in the afternoon, where you’ll spend the night in a cozy riad, concluding another memorable day on your 8 days tour from Casablanca to Marrakech.
Day 7: Exploring Marrakech with a Local Guide
After indulging in breakfast at the riad, commence your Marrakech exploration, immersing yourself in the vibrant hues of “the red city of Morocco.” Accompanied by your seasoned guide, discover the city’s historical and cultural gems, including the Saadian Tombs, the Palaces of El Bahia and El Badi, and the Ben Youssef Coranique School.
Savor a delightful lunch at a charming restaurant near the square. In the afternoon, wander through the lush greenery of Majorelle Gardens, find tranquility at Menara Gardens, and marvel at the iconic Koutoubia Tower. As the day draws to a close, return to the riad for a peaceful overnight stay, filled with memories of Marrakech captivating allure on your 8 days desert tour from Casablanca.
Day 8: Transfer to Marrakech Airport
After a hearty breakfast, you will be transferred from the hotel to the airport, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable 8 days Morocco tour from Casablanca to Marrakech. Depart with cherished memories of Morocco diverse landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, ready to go on your next adventure.
Included
- Private tour & Transportation with A/C and seat-belt.
- Pick you up from Casablanca airport & drop off at Marrakech airport.
- 5 nights hotel accommodation & breakfast in Casablanca, Fez & Marrakech.
- 1 night hotel accommodation, dinner & breakfast in 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, Fez & Marrakech.
- Drinks at a meal.
- Tips and personal miscellaneous expenses.
- Entry fees to Monuments / Museums / Kasbahs
- Anything not mentioned in the program
- Travel insurance