12-Day Morocco Tour: Epic Journey From Casablanca to Marrakech

Experience the ultimate 12-day Morocco tour from Casablanca, designed to take you through the country’s most iconic destinations. From the imperial cities and the blue streets of Chefchaouen to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert and the vibrant souks of Marrakech, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Ideal for tourits seeking both discovery and authentic Moroccan experiences.

Complete Tour Plan:

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca & City Tour

Upon arrival at Casablanca Airport, you’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to the city centre. Casablanca, Morocco’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, is also the kingdom’s financial capital.
You will visit the Central Market, the Habous Quarter, and the Royal Palace. A major highlight is the Hassan II Mosque, one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims. Situated by the Atlantic Ocean, it stands as a symbol of modern Moroccan architecture.
In the afternoon, you’ll have some leisure time to walk along the beach promenade and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Overnight in a hotel in Casablanca.

Day 2: Casablanca – Rabat – Chefchaouen

After breakfast, travel to Rabat, Morocco’s capital, founded in the 12th century and later a pirate haven in the 17th century.
Visit the Oudayas Kasbah, Hassan Tower, the Mauum of Mohammed V, and the Chellah Necropolis.
After lunch, continue via Ouazzane to the enchanting blue city of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains.
Known for its blue-washed streets and relaxed vibe, it has long been a haven for refugees.
Overnight in a charming Riad.

Day 3: Chefchaouen Exploration

After breakfast, explore Chefchaouen’s blue-painted medina, steep cobbled streets, and Plaza Uta el-Hammam.
Visit the restored Kasbah with its beautiful gardens.
In the afternoon, enjoy a walk to Ras Elma spring.
Influenced by Spanish culture due to historical colonization, Chefchaouen offers a unique blend of architecture and tradition.
Overnight in Chefchaouen.

Day 4: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

Depart for the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO site known for its well-preserved mosaics, basilica, and triumphal arch.
Continue to the holy town of Moulay Idriss, a pilgrimage site.
After lunch, drive to Meknes, where you’ll see Bab Mansour Gate, the Granaries, the Sahrij Swani Basin, the old Medina, and Lahdim Square.
By late afternoon, head to Fes.
Overnight in a traditional Riad.

Day 5: Full Day Exploring Fes

After breakfast, explore Morocco’s spiritual and intellectual capital.
Visit the ornate gates of the Royal Palace, then tour the Mellah (Jewish Quarter).
Stroll the ancient Medina, home to the Al Quaraouine University and the Chouara Tanneries.
Visit the Attarine Museum and the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss.
After lunch, visit a tile-making cooperative before heading to a panoramic viewpoint over the city.
Return to your Riad for the night.

Day 6: Fes – Ifrane – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert

Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains.
Stop in Ifrane, dubbed the “Switzerland of Morocco,” and visit the cedar forest in Azrou, home to Barbary macaques.
After lunch in Midelt, continue via the scenic Ziz Valley.
Arrive in Merzouga, where camels await to take you across the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Enjoy sunset atop a dune, then settle into your desert camp.
After dinner, enjoy traditional Berber music under the stars.

Day 7: Merzouga Desert Discovery

Early risers can enjoy a stunning sunrise.
After breakfast, visit Merzouga Lake, then meet nomadic families living in the desert.
Stop by the Mifis mines and explore the Paris-Dakar rally track.
Later, visit Khamlia village, known for its Gnawa musicians.
Enjoy live performances and tea.
End the day at a desert oasis before heading to your Riad.

Day 8: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley

After breakfast, depart for Rissani, a historic caravan centre.
If it’s market day (Tuesday, Thursday, or Sunday), explore the vibrant souk.
Continue to Erfoud, famous for fossils, then to Todra Valley.
Explore the dramatic Todra Gorges, with 300-meter-high cliffs.
After lunch, head to Dades Valley to see the “Monkey Fingers” rock formations and ancient mud kasbahs.
Overnight in a hotel with valley views.

Day 9: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

After breakfast, drive through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs and visit a rose cooperative in Kelaa M’gouna.
Continue to Ouarzazate, a film production hub where movies like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia were filmed.
Tour the film studio and Cinema Museum.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, famous for its ancient earthen architecture.
Walk through the ksar and climb to the granary for panoramic views.
Continue over the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass to reach Marrakech by evening.
Overnight in a Riad.

Day 10: Explore Marrakech – The Red City

Today is dedicated to discovering the legendary city of Marrakech, known as the “Red City” for its rose-hued buildings and ancient ramparts.
Your local guide will lead you through its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant souks.
Start your tour at the Majorelle Garden, a colourful oasis designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later owned by Yves Saint Laurent.
Then, visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the spiritual symbol of Marrakech, admired for its 12th-century minaret.
Continue to the Bahia Palace, an elegant 19th-century palace known for its intricate tilework and tranquil gardens.
Explore the fascinating Saadian Tombs, hidden for centuries and now beautifully restored.
In the afternoon, dive into the heart of the Medina, with its labyrinth of souks offering everything from spices and leather to lanterns and jewellery.
End the tour at the lively Jemaa el-Fna Square, where musicians, acrobats, henna artists, and storytellers create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Overnight in a charming Riad in the Medina.

Day 11: Day Trip to Essaouira (Optional)

After breakfast, enjoy a day trip to the laid-back coastal city of Essaouira, a favorite of artists, surfers, and musicians.
This Atlantic gem offers a change of pace with its Portuguese fortifications, whitewashed buildings with blue shutters, and charming harbor filled with colorful fishing boats.
Stroll along the Skala de la Kasbah, visit the lively fish market, and explore the historic Jewish Quarter (Mellah).
Wander through art galleries, boutique shops, and cafés that blend bohemian and Moroccan flair.
For seafood lovers, lunch by the port with freshly grilled catch-of-the-day is a must.
Return to Marrakech in the evening and enjoy your final night in the magical Red City.

Optional activities if you choose not to visit Essaouira:
• Hammam and spa experience
• Hot air balloon ride over Marrakech (weather dependent)
• Moroccan cooking class

Overnight stay in Marrakech.

Day 12: Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Inclusions

Airport pick-up and drop-off (Casablanca arrival & Marrakech departure)
Private, air-conditioned vehicle with professional English-speaking driver throughout the tour
11 nights’ accommodation in carefully selected Riads, hotels, and desert camp (based on double occupancy)
Daily breakfast
3 dinners: Merzouga desert camp, Dades Valley hotel, Merzouga Riad
Guided tours in Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Meknes, Volubilis, and Marrakech with licensed local guides
Entrance fees to historical monuments and museums as per itinerary
Camel trek and overnight in luxury desert camp in Erg Chebbi
Visit to nomad families, Khamlia village, and local cooperatives
Bottled water in the vehicle
All taxes and service charges

Exclusions

International flights to/from Morocco
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Lunches and dinners not specified in the inclusions
Drinks, snacks, and personal expenses
Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
Optional activities (Essaouira day trip, hot air balloon ride, hammam & spa, cooking class)
Additional entrance fees or transport outside the stated itinerary

Additional Notes

This tour is private and fully customizable upon request
Moderate walking is involved; comfortable footwear is recommended
Some riads may not have elevators—luggage assistance is provided
Vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals available upon request
Essaouira day trip (Day 11) is optional and can be replaced by alternative Marrakech activities
Exact order of sightseeing may be adjusted for operational reasons
Please inform us of any mobility issues, allergies, or special needs in advance

Note:

This itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to meet your specific interests and needs. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or special requests.

Your Authentic Moroccan Adventure Starts Here!

Join Said, a native Berber guide, on an unforgettable adventure through Morocco’s hidden gems.

Experience the magic of the desert like never before.

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