13-Day Morocco Grand Tour: From Casablanca to the Sahara, Imperial Cities, and the Atlantic Coast
Tour Overview
Conducting initial research on flights from your nearest airport can help you find the most cost-effective options for arriving in and departing from Morocco. Our tours are highly flexible and can start from any city that fits your schedule.
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca, Overnight in Rabat
Casablanca → Rabat
Begin your journey in Casablanca, Morocco's bustling economic center. Meet your guide for a city tour, starting with the awe-inspiring Hassan II Mosque, featuring the tallest minaret in the world and intricately designed interiors. From Casablanca, travel to Rabat, Morocco's capital, and settle into a traditional Riad or hotel after visiting historic sites, including the Kasbah des Oudayas and the Mohammed V Mausoleum.
Day 2: Rabat to Chefchaouen via Asilah
Rabat → Asilah → Rif Mountains → Chefchaouen
Depart Rabat for Chefchaouen, stopping in the seaside town of Asilah with its Portuguese-era ramparts and whitewashed walls. Continue into the dramatic Rif Mountains and arrive in Chefchaouen, a town known for its vibrant blue medina nestled among rugged peaks. After settling into your Riad, explore the enchanting blue alleys and local craft markets before enjoying a rooftop dinner under the starry night sky.
Day 3: Chefchaouen Sightseeing
Optional trip to Akchour Waterfalls
Explore Chefchaouen’s captivating blue-painted streets with a guided half-day tour, discovering hidden corners and the rich history of this unique town. In the afternoon, opt for a trek to the stunning Akchour Waterfalls, a scenic hike through lush landscapes with refreshing pools. Return to Chefchaouen and relax in the tranquil mountain atmosphere.
Day 4: From Chefchaouen to Fes via Volubilis and Meknes
Chefchaouen → Volubilis → Moulay Idriss → Meknes → Fes
Head south to explore the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, known for its intricate mosaics and well-preserved structures. Visit nearby Moulay Idriss, a sacred town, then continue to Meknes, a historic imperial city with grand palaces and gates. End the day in Fes, where you’ll settle into your accommodation in the city’s vibrant medina.
Day 5: Guided Tour of Fes
Fes
Begin with breakfast before diving into the heart of Fes with a guided tour. Wander through the maze-like medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, exploring souks filled with spices, leather goods, and traditional crafts. Visit the renowned tanneries, the Al-Qarawiyyin University, and other historic sites before ending the day with a delicious dinner in the medina.
Day 6: Fes to Merzouga - Gateway to the Sahara
Fes → Ifrane → Azrou → Midelt → Ziz Gorges → Erfoud → Merzouga
Journey into the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane and the cedar forests near Azrou, home to Barbary apes. Continue through the Ziz Valley to Erfoud, then arrive in Merzouga at the edge of the Sahara. Here, ride camels into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi for a night in a luxury Berber camp. Enjoy traditional music and feast under the stars.
Day 7: Merzouga to Dades Valley
Merzouga → Rissani → Todra Gorge → Dades Valley
Awake to a breathtaking desert sunrise and spend the day learning about desert traditions. Visit the village of Khamlia, home to Gnawa music, and meet with local nomads to hear their stories. Optional activities such as ATV riding, dune buggies, or sand-boarding bring extra excitement. Cap off the day with another sunset over the dunes, returning to your camp for a peaceful night.Awake to a desert sunrise before returning to Merzouga on camels. Travel through the oasis town of Rissani and the stunning Todra Gorge, where you can walk between towering canyon walls. Continue to Dades Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes, and settle into your hotel for the evening.
Day 8: Journey Through the Atlas Mountains to Marrakech
Dades Valley → Roses Valley → Skoura Oasis → Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou → High Atlas → Marrakech
Travel along the "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs," passing the Rose Valley and Skoura Oasis. In Ouarzazate, explore the film studios and visit the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage ksar. Cross the High Atlas Mountains, arriving in Marrakech by late afternoon with time to explore the city at your leisure.
Day 9: Guided Sightseeing in Marrakech
Marrakech
Enjoy a full-day guided tour of Marrakech, visiting the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and the medina’s bustling souks. Discover the vibrant Djemaa el Fna square, a UNESCO-listed cultural site with entertainers, musicians, and food vendors. Conclude with optional spa relaxation or further exploration of the medina.
Day 10: Marrakech to Essaouira
Marrakech → Essaouira
Depart for Essaouira, a coastal town known for its relaxed ambiance, broad beaches, and historic medina. Wander along the ramparts, visit local art galleries, and sample fresh seafood at the port. Spend the night in a peaceful Riad with ocean views.
Day 11: Free Day in Essaouira
arrakech → EssaouiraEssaouira
Enjoy a day at leisure, exploring Essaouira’s winding streets, vibrant art scene, and bustling fish market. For water sports enthusiasts, the beaches offer surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Alternatively, relax at a beachside cafe, taking in the serene Atlantic views.
Day 12: Return to Casablanca via El Jadida
Essaouira → El Jadida → Casablanca
With a full day to explore, visit local artist studios, stroll along the beach, or relax with coffee by the shore. For adventure seekers, water sports options abound. Soak up Essaouira’s unique Travel along the Atlantic coast to Casablanca, stopping in the historic town of El Jadida to explore its Portuguese fortress and underground cistern. Arrive in Casablanca for a farewell dinner and a final night in Morocco’s largest city.blend of creativity and relaxation.
Day 13: Departure from Casablanca
Casablanca → Airport Transfer
Follow theBid farewell to Morocco as our team assists with transfer arrangements to the Casablanca airport, concluding your 13-day Moroccan adventure filled with diverse experiences, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable memories. coast to Casablanca, pausing in El Jadida to explore its ancient citadel and underground cistern. Settle into your hotel for a final Moroccan evening.
What’s Included
- Transportation/Fuel: 13 days of travel in an air-conditioned 4WD vehicle or minivan.
- Guidance: Services of a multilingual local guide/driver.
- Accommodations: 11 nights in handpicked hotels, Kasbahs, and Riads, plus 1 night in a luxury Berber desert camp.
- Activities: Camel ride, sandboarding (optional), and live traditional music show in the desert.
- Meals: Daily breakfast and dinner.
- Travel Insurance: Coverage within the vehicle for 13 days.
What’s Not Included
- Flights to and from Morocco
- Lunches, tips, entrance fees, drinks, and personal items