10 Days Tour from Casablanca – Imperial Cities & Desert

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Starting in Morocco’s Bustling Metropolis

Begin your journey in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city. Visit the majestic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, and explore the city’s Art Deco district. Consider a stroll along the Corniche to experience the vibrant coastal atmosphere. Overnight in Casablanca.

Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat to Meknes

Exploring the Capital and Imperial Majesty

Depart Casablanca for Rabat, the political capital. Visit key historical sites such as the Hassan Tower, Mohammed V Mausoleum, and the Kasbah of the Udayas. Continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities. Explore the grandiose gates like Bab Mansour and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Overnight in Meknes.

Day 3: Meknes to Volubilis to Fes

Ancient Ruins and the Cultural Heartland

Travel to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its ancient mosaics and structures. Continue to Fes, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. Begin exploring the medina and its historic sites. Overnight in Fes.

Day 4: Exploring Fes

A Day in the Ancient Medina

Spend a full day in Fes. Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, Al-Attarine Madrasa, the famous tanneries, and Nejjarine Fountain. Wander through the narrow streets filled with artisans and markets. Discover the city’s rich history and culinary delights. Overnight in Fes.

Day 5: Fes to Ifrane to Midelt

Crossing the Middle Atlas

Travel from Fes through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane, known as “Morocco’s Switzerland,” and Azrou, with its cedar forests and Barbary macaques. Continue to Midelt, a market town between the Middle and High Atlas ranges. Overnight in Midelt.

Day 6: Midelt to Merzouga and the Sahara Desert

Entering the Realm of the Dunes

Continue from Midelt to Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Arrive by the afternoon and embark on a camel trek into the heart of the Sahara for an overnight desert camp experience, complete with traditional music and a sky filled with stars. Overnight in the Sahara.

Day 7: Merzouga to Dades Valley via Todra Gorges

Desert Wonders and Dramatic Canyons

After a desert sunrise, head to the Todra Gorges, a towering canyon. Explore the area and then continue to the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes and “monkey fingers” rock formations. Overnight in Dades.

Day 8: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate via Skoura

Traversing the Route of Thousand Kasbahs

Travel through the Skoura Oasis to Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Visit the Taourirt Kasbah and explore the area’s film studios. Overnight in Ouarzazate.

Day 9: Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Ait Ben Haddou and Tizi n’Tichka Pass

Ancient Kasbahs and Mountain Passes

Depart Ouarzazate and visit the Ait Ben Haddou kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then, ascend the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, enjoying panoramic views and the changing landscape. Arrive in Marrakech by the late afternoon or evening. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 10: Exploring Marrakech

Discovering the Red City’s Charms

Spend the day visiting Marrakech’s famous sites, including the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and the Saadian Tombs. Wander through the Jardin Majorelle, relax in one of the city’s gardens, and experience the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Overnight in Marrakech.

Conclusion: A Tapestry of Moroccan Experiences

This 10-day tour from Casablanca through Morocco’s imperial cities and the Sahara Desert offers a profound exploration of the country’s diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and historical depth. From the modernity of Casablanca to the ancient streets of Fes, the tranquility of the Sahara, and the energy of Marrakech, this journey provides a rich and varied experience of Morocco’s natural beauty and cultural richness. As you depart, you carry with you memories of dramatic landscapes, warm hospitality, and the timeless allure of Morocco’s diverse and captivating landscapes.