8 Days Tour from Casablanca – Imperial Cities and Sahara

Your Moroccan adventure begins as you arrive at Casablanca International Airport, where your driver will greet you and introduce you to the energy of this coastal metropolis. Before leaving the city, you’ll visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, standing gracefully on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean with its towering minaret visible from afar. After exploring Casablanca’s highlights, you’ll continue north along the coast to Rabat, Morocco’s capital city. Once there, you’ll visit the Royal Palace, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the historic Hassan Tower, a symbol of the city’s past glory. A walk through the tranquil Kasbah of the Udayas, with its blue-and-white lanes overlooking the sea, will end your day on a peaceful note. Overnight stay in Rabat.

After breakfast, the journey continues toward the Rif Mountains, winding through lush green landscapes and small northern towns. You’ll reach the enchanting Chefchaouen, also known as the “Blue Pearl of Morocco,” named for its beautifully painted blue walls and serene atmosphere. Spend the afternoon wandering through its narrow, maze-like streets, where every corner offers a postcard-perfect view. Relax at the main square, Outa El Hammam, and enjoy mint tea in a rooftop café while soaking in the mountain views. Chefchaouen is also known for its artisanal crafts and textiles, making it a perfect place for shopping or photography. The night will be spent in a charming riad within the heart of the blue city.

Depart Chefchaouen in the morning and travel south toward the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved archaeological areas in North Africa. Wander among its impressive mosaics, arches, and pillars, imagining the life of the Romans who once thrived here. From Volubilis, continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities, where you’ll explore the grand Bab Mansour Gate, Heri es-Souani (the royal stables), and the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum. Later in the day, you’ll reach Fes, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco, where you’ll settle into your riad in the old medina for the night.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided exploration of Fes, a city renowned for its labyrinthine medina and centuries-old traditions. Your local guide will take you through the winding alleys of Fes el-Bali, the oldest part of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University, the oldest existing educational institution in the world, along with the Bou Inania Madrasa and the colorful Chouara Tanneries, where leather is still processed by hand using age-old methods. The day also includes stops at traditional craft workshops, spice markets, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the old city. By evening, you’ll return to your riad, surrounded by the peaceful hum of the medina.

This morning, you’ll leave the ancient city behind and head south toward the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its clean streets and alpine-style architecture. You’ll continue through the cedar forests of Azrou, where you can spot the playful Barbary apes, before arriving in Midelt for lunch. The landscape transforms as you cross the Ziz Valley, lined with date palms and adobe villages, leading to the desert gateway of Erfoud and finally Merzouga, at the edge of the Erg Chebbi Dunes. In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a camel trek across the dunes, watching the sun set in a blaze of color over the golden sands. Tonight, you’ll stay in a Berber-style desert camp, where you’ll enjoy traditional food, local music, and a sky full of stars.

Wake early to witness the sunrise painting the dunes in soft gold before riding camels back to your hotel for breakfast and a refreshing shower. The journey then continues through Rissani and Tinghir toward the dramatic Todra Gorges, a towering canyon carved by the Todra River with cliffs reaching over 300 meters high. After exploring the gorge and enjoying lunch nearby, you’ll drive along the winding Dades Valley, known for its stunning rock formations nicknamed “Monkey Fingers” and its numerous old Kasbahs. The evening will be spent in a cozy guesthouse overlooking the valley, where you’ll enjoy dinner surrounded by the tranquility of southern Morocco.

After breakfast, travel along the famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing rose gardens and palm groves on the way to Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa” for its many film studios. You’ll stop to visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar (fortified village) that has appeared in films like Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and The Mummy. Wander through its narrow pathways and learn about Berber life in this ancient village. After lunch, you’ll continue your scenic drive across the High Atlas Mountains, passing through the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260m), before arriving in the bustling city of Marrakech. Check in to your riad and enjoy an evening exploring the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where storytellers, musicians, and food stalls fill the air with life and color.

After breakfast, enjoy free time to relax, do some last-minute shopping, or stroll through the peaceful gardens of Majorelle or Menara. Depending on your flight schedule, your driver will transfer you to Marrakech or Casablanca Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your unforgettable journey across Morocco’s imperial cities, mountains, and desert landscapes — a true Moroccan adventure filled with culture, color, and memories that will last a lifetime.