9-Day Imperial & Desert Odyssey from Casablanca
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.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca & Exploration of Rabat
Casablanca → Rabat
Upon arrival at Casablanca's airport, you’ll be greeted by our team and taken on a short tour of Casablanca, including the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, a marvel of modern Islamic architecture with the world’s tallest minaret. From here, journey to Rabat, Morocco’s capital, where you’ll explore the historic Kasbah des Oudayas, the serene Mohammed V Mausoleum, and other architectural gems. Overnight in a Riad or hotel in Rabat.
Day 2: Rabat to Fes via Meknes and Volubilis
CasRabat → Meknes → Moulay Idriss → Volubilis → Fes
After breakfast, depart for Volubilis, Morocco's most impressive Roman archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage location. Here, wander through ancient mosaics and ruins that reflect the grandeur of a once-thriving Roman town. Continue to Meknes, known as Morocco’s “Versailles” for its grand gates and architecture, and arrive in Fes by evening for a restful night in a traditional Riad.
Day 3: Guided Tour of Fes - Morocco’s Cultural Capital
Fes
Begin the day with a hearty breakfast, followed by a deep dive into the heart of Fes with a guided exploration of its famous medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Navigate through a labyrinth of alleys lined with bustling souks, artisanal workshops, and traditional tanneries, where leather is produced using age-old methods. End the day with a traditional Moroccan dinner and retire to your Riad.
Day 4: Fes to Merzouga - Gateway to the Sahara
Fes → Ifrane → Azrou → Midelt → Ziz Gorges → Erfoud → Merzouga
Leave Fes and journey through Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland” for its alpine architecture, and pass through the cedar forests of Azrou, home to playful Barbary apes. Traverse the High Atlas mountain passes and the scenic Ziz Valley before reaching Merzouga on the edge of the Sahara. Here, ride camels into the dunes of Erg Chebbi, where you’ll spend the night at a luxury Berber camp, enjoying a feast under the stars, accompanied by traditional Berber music.
Day 5: Merzouga to Dades Valley via Todra Gorge
Merzouga → Rissani → Todra Gorge → Dades Valley
Awaken to a breathtaking desert sunrise, followed by a camel ride back to Merzouga. After breakfast, depart towards the dramatic Todra Gorge, Morocco's “Grand Canyon,” where you can wander between its towering walls. Continue to the Dades Valley, passing quaint Berber villages and marveling at the region’s unique rock formations. Overnight in a hotel in Dades Valley with views over the rugged landscape.
Day 6: Dades Valley to Marrakech via Ait Ben Haddou and Atlas Mountains
Dades Valley → Roses Valley → Skoura Oasis → Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou → High Atlas → Marrakech
Travel along the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” through the Rose Valley and Skoura Oasis to Ouarzazate, Morocco’s film capital. Visit the famous Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and cross the scenic High Atlas Mountains to reach Marrakech. Settle into your Riad in Marrakech and enjoy the lively evening atmosphere of this vibrant city.
Day 7: Guided Tour of Marrakech
Marrakech
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Marrakech’s historic sites, including the iconic Djemaa el Fna square, the Koutoubia Mosque, and the beautiful Majorelle Gardens. Explore the medina’s bustling souks, where artisans craft intricate goods. You’ll have the evening to explore on your own or relax in a hammam.
Day 8: Leisure Time in Marrakech & Return to Casablanca
Marrakech → Casablanca
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Marrakech, with options for a cooking class, spa treatment, or simply exploring the medina. In the afternoon, return to Casablanca, where you can unwind for the final night of your journey.
Day 9: Departure from Casablanca
Casablanca
Transfer to the Casablanca airport, concluding your 9-day Moroccan adventure with memories of an extraordinary journey.
What’s Included
- Transportation/Fuel: Air-conditioned 4WD vehicle or minivan for the duration of the tour.
- Guidance: Multilingual local guide/driver.
- Accommodations: 7 nights in hotels/kasbahs/riads, 1 night in a Berber desert camp with a private tent.
- Activities: Camel ride (one per person), sandboarding, traditional music live show in the desert.
- Daily bMeals: Daily breakfast and dinner.reakfasts
- Travel Insurance: Coverage within the vehicle for 9 days.
What’s Not Included
- Flights
- Lunches, tips, entrance fees, drinks, and personal items