Morocco 8-Day Tour: Casablanca – Marrakech via Sahara Desert

This tour will take you through Morocco’s most iconic destinations, including Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, Fes, the Sahara Desert, the Draa and Dades Valleys, Ouarzazate, Ait Benhaddou, Marrakech, and Essaouira. You will experience imperial cities, natural wonders, UNESCO World Heritage sites, camel trekking, desert nights, and cultural music.

Day 1: Casablanca – Rabat – Meknes – Fes

We will meet at the agreed location and start our tour via Rabat, visiting the Old Kasbah of Udayas and Hassan Tower. Then, we continue to Meknes, another important imperial city, to see Bab El Mansour gate, Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, and Sahrij Souani. Finally, we drive to Fes for overnight stay in a hotel or Riad.

Day 2: Full Day in Fes

After breakfast, explore Fes with a local guide. Visit El Bali Medina (UNESCO World Heritage site), the new city, Koranic schools, and the famous tanneries. The night will be spent in Fes in a local Riad or hotel.

Day 3: Fes – Ifrane – Merzouga Sahara Desert

After breakfast, depart for Ifrane, known as “the Moroccan Switzerland,” and Azrou, stopping at the largest cedar forest in Morocco to see the Barbary apes. Continue through Midelt, Ziz Valley, Errachidia, and Erfoud, arriving in Merzouga. Rest, then ride camels into the desert to enjoy the sunset. Dinner and overnight in a desert camp with Berber drum music under the stars.

Day 4: Full Day in Sahara Desert – Merzouga – Khamlia Village

Wake up early to enjoy sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, ride back to the hotel and explore the area, visiting Khamlia Village to experience Gnawa music and the lifestyle of local villagers. You may also visit Berber nomad tents to discover handmade crafts at lower prices. Overnight in a hotel or Riad.

Day 5: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

Leave for Rissani, visit its traditional market, and learn about its historic caravan trade. Continue to Todra Gorges, the highest and narrowest gorges in Morocco. After lunch, drive through Dades Valley to admire unique rock formations known as “Monkey Toes.” Overnight in a hotel overlooking the valley.

Day 6: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Benhaddou – Marrakech

After breakfast, explore Dades Valley rock formations, then drive along the Valley of Roses to Kalaa M’gouna and Skoura. Stop in Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa,” visiting Atlas Film Studios. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a famous filming location for movies such as Gladiator and Alexander. Lunch at a local restaurant, then drive over the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi N’Tichka Pass (2,260 m) to Marrakech. Drop off at your accommodation.

Day 7: Marrakech – Essaouira – Marrakech

Drive to Essaouira (Mogador) and explore its Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the historic fortifications, trading history, and vibrant cultural life. Return to Marrakech for overnight stay.

Day 8: Full Day in Marrakech

After breakfast, explore Marrakech with a local guide. Visit Saadian Tombs, Majorelle Gardens, Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and the bustling souks. End your day at Jemaa el-Fnaa square to enjoy street performances, snake charmers, and local entertainment. Afternoon free to explore Marrakech independently.

Included

  • Private transport (4×4, minibus, or bus, air-conditioned)
  • Experienced multilingual driver/guide
  • Fuel for all trips
  • 5 nights in hotels or Riads
  • 2 night in desert camp (dinner & breakfast)
  • Camel ride in the desert
  • Sandboarding in dunes

Not Included

  • Drinks and lunches
  • Flight tickets
  • Entrance fees to monuments/museums
  • Hotel in Casablanca

Note: Any modifications to this itinerary can be arranged in advance—just contact us and we will make it happen.