7-Day Desert Tour from Casablanca to Marrakech

Tour Details

Day 1: Casablanca – City Highlights – Fes

Upon arrival in Casablanca, you will be warmly welcomed by your English-speaking driver. If arriving in the morning, begin your adventure with a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most stunning mosques in the world, with its intricate architecture and oceanfront location. Continue to the Corniche, Casablanca’s lively seaside promenade lined with cafes, hotels, and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely stroll. In the afternoon, depart for Fes, the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco. Upon arrival in Fes, wander through the famous Bab Boujloud gate and explore the winding alleys of the Medina, absorbing the historic architecture and the vibrant atmosphere of this ancient city.

Overnight in a riad in Fes.

Day 2: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Merzouga (Erg Chebbi)

After breakfast, depart Fes early in the morning for Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Your journey begins through Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture and charming streets. Continue through the Azrou cedar forest, where you may spot Barbary monkeys playing among the trees. Midday, stop in Midelt, the apple capital of Morocco, for lunch at a local restaurant. The journey continues through the Middle Atlas Mountains, offering breathtaking panoramas of rugged peaks, traditional Berber villages, and lush valleys. Drive through the Ziz Valley, famous for its extensive palm groves and picturesque gorges, before arriving in Erfoud, a town renowned for its marble, fossils, and annual date festival. In the afternoon, reach Merzouga and embark on a sunset camel trek into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Conclude the day at a luxury desert camp, enjoying dinner by the campfire under the starry desert sky.

Overnight in a luxury desert camp in Merzouga.

Day 3: Desert Exploration and Nomad Visit

Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast at the camp. Spend the morning exploring the desert on camelback, traveling to a hidden oasis where you can relax, climb the tallest dunes, and take panoramic photographs. Adventure enthusiasts can try sandboarding down the dunes. Afterward, visit a nomadic Berber family who call the desert home. Share traditional mint tea, learn about their lifestyle, and immerse yourself in authentic desert culture. Dinner is served under the stars, accompanied by local drumming and music, before spending the night in a traditional nomadic guest room, offering a true taste of desert life.

Overnight in a Berber nomadic home.

Day 4: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

After breakfast, return by camel to Merzouga and begin the journey westward toward the High Atlas Mountains. Stop in Rissani, a bustling town famous for its traditional markets and local crafts. Continue through charming Berber villages to the Todra Gorge, a spectacular canyon with towering cliffs ideal for hiking, photography, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. Watch local nomads collect water from the river and experience life in this dramatic landscape. After exploring Todra Gorge, travel further to the Dades Valley, passing the unique “Monkey Fingers” rock formations. Enjoy the scenic views and check into your hotel in the valley for a relaxing overnight stay.

Overnight in Dades Valley.

Day 5: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Skoura – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

Start the day with breakfast at your hotel and a scenic drive through the Dades Valley, passing the picturesque Rose Valley, known for its fragrant fields and traditional kasbahs. Continue to Skoura, a lush oasis with historic kasbahs and extensive palm groves. Stop for lunch in Ouarzazate, Morocco’s film-making capital, before visiting the famous Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and backdrop to numerous international films. Walk through the ancient ksar, taking in the architecture and local atmosphere. Afterward, cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, stopping at viewpoints to admire the dramatic landscapes. Arrive in Marrakech in the evening and check into your riad in the heart of the Medina.

Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 6: Full Day in Marrakech

Spend a full day exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech. Visit Jemaa el-Fnaa, the lively main square full of storytellers, musicians, and food stalls. Explore the Koutoubia Mosque, admire the intricate architecture of the Saadian Tombs, and stroll through the serene Majorelle Garden, a botanical garden famous for its cobalt-blue accents. Wander through the colorful souks, discovering spices, textiles, and traditional crafts, and soak in the lively atmosphere of the Medina. This day allows time to experience both cultural sites and the city’s unique ambiance.

Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 7: Marrakech – Departure

After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Marrakech for last-minute shopping or sightseeing, depending on your flight schedule. Your driver will then transfer you to either Marrakech or Casablanca Airport for your departure, concluding your unforgettable Moroccan adventure.

Excluded