8 days tour from Casablanca

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Explore Casablanca’s Key Sites

Begin your Moroccan journey in Casablanca, the country’s largest city and economic hub. Notable stops include:

• Hassan II Mosque: An architectural marvel and one of the largest mosques in the world, featuring stunning ocean views and intricate designs.
• The Corniche: A popular coastal area, perfect for a scenic walk along the Atlantic.
• Rick’s Café: Inspired by the classic film Casablanca, this café is a must-visit for its unique ambiance.

Overnight in Casablanca

Settle in for the night in Casablanca, preparing for the exciting journey ahead.

Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat and Fes

Travel to Rabat

After breakfast, travel to Rabat, Morocco’s capital, and visit landmarks such as:

• Kasbah of the Udayas: A picturesque fortress overlooking the Atlantic, with blue-and-white streets and stunning gardens.
• Hassan Tower: The towering minaret of an unfinished mosque, alongside its impressive ruins.
• Mausoleum of Mohammed V: A beautifully crafted royal tomb with intricate architectural details.

Continue to Fes

From Rabat, make your way to the historic city of Fes, one of the oldest cities in Morocco.

Overnight in Fes

Stay in a charming riad, a traditional Moroccan guesthouse in Fes.

Day 3: Full Day Tour of Fes

Explore the Ancient Medina

Spend the day exploring Fes el-Bali, the city’s ancient walled medina, known for its maze-like streets and historic landmarks. Key sites include:

• Al-Qarawiyyin University: The oldest existing university in the world, dating back to 859 AD.
• Chouara Tannery: Observe the traditional leather-dyeing process in this colorful open-air tannery.
• Al-Attarine Madrasa: A masterpiece of Islamic architecture with intricate carvings and tiling.

Visit Fes Jdid

In the afternoon, explore Fes Jdid, including the Royal Palace and the Mellah (Jewish Quarter).

Overnight in Fes

Enjoy another night in your Fes riad.

Day 4: Fes to Merzouga Desert via Ifrane and the Middle Atlas

Journey through the Middle Atlas

Depart Fes and head towards the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in:

• Ifrane: Known as “Little Switzerland” for its European-style architecture and scenic alpine setting.
• Azrou Cedar Forest: See towering cedar trees and meet the friendly Barbary macaques that inhabit this forest.

Lunch in Midelt

Break for lunch in Midelt, a small town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains.

Arrive in Merzouga for Desert Adventure

Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. From here, embark on a camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, reaching your desert camp as the sun sets.

Overnight in Desert Camp

Enjoy a traditional Berber dinner under the stars and spend the night in a comfortable desert tent.

Day 5: Merzouga to Dades Valley via Rissani and Todra Gorge

Sunrise Over the Dunes

Wake up early to witness a mesmerizing sunrise over the Sahara. Return to Merzouga by camel, and then continue by vehicle.

Explore Rissani

Visit Rissani, a historic market town once a key stop on ancient caravan routes. Wander the vibrant souks and discover local crafts.

Discover Todra Gorge

Continue to the dramatic Todra Gorge, where sheer red cliffs soar above a crystal-clear river. Take a short hike through this stunning canyon.

Drive Through Dades Valley

End the day with a scenic drive through the Dades Valley, known for its rugged rock formations and lush landscapes.

Overnight in Dades Valley

Stay in a local guesthouse or hotel overlooking the valley.

Day 6: Dades Valley to Marrakech via Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou

Visit Ouarzazate, “The Hollywood of Morocco”

After breakfast, travel through Ouarzazate, a town famous for its role in many Hollywood films. Visit:

• Taourirt Kasbah: A historic kasbah with stunning architecture and panoramic views.
• Film Studios: Get a behind-the-scenes look at Morocco’s film industry.

Stop at Ait Benhaddou

Next, stop at Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and ancient fortified village. Wander through the earthen buildings, often featured in movies due to their stunning architecture.

Cross the High Atlas Mountains

Travel through the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains, stopping for photos at panoramic viewpoints along the way.

Arrival in Marrakech

Arrive in Marrakech by evening, ready to explore its bustling markets and historic sites.

Overnight in Marrakech

Stay in a traditional riad, where you can unwind after a full day of exploration.

Day 7: Full Day Exploring Marrakech

Uncover Marrakech’s Treasures

Spend the day discovering the vibrant city of Marrakech. Key sites include:

• Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: The lively main square filled with performers, food vendors, and market stalls.
• Koutoubia Mosque: The largest mosque in Marrakech, known for its towering minaret.
• Bahia Palace: An opulent palace with lush gardens and intricate tile work.

Visit the Majorelle Garden

In the afternoon, enjoy the serene Majorelle Garden, a tranquil space filled with exotic plants and the striking blue buildings of French painter Jacques Majorelle.

Overnight in Marrakech

Spend your final night in Marrakech, savoring Moroccan cuisine and exploring the evening markets.

Day 8: Departure from Marrakech

Departure

Depending on your departure time, you may have a final chance to shop in the souks or explore a few last sites before transferring to the airport for your flight home.

Why Choose This 8-Day Tour from Casablanca?

This 8-day tour from Casablanca offers an in-depth look at Morocco’s diverse landscapes, ancient architecture, and captivating culture. From the grand cities of Casablanca and Fes to the remote beauty of the Sahara Desert, this tour is ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded Moroccan experience that balances urban exploration with natural beauty.