9 Day Tour Casablanca to Marrakech via Fes & Merzouga Desert (4×4 Adventure)

Private Tour – Authentic Experience through Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert

Day 1: Casablanca – Rabat

Arrival at Casablanca airport or pickup from your hotel. Begin your Moroccan adventure with a visit to the majestic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, built partly over the ocean.

Depart for Rabat, the capital of Morocco. Explore:

• Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas, a historic UNESCO-listed fortress in Rabat, known for its charming Andalusian gardens, narrow blue-and-white streets, and breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views — a highlight for travelers seeking authentic Moroccan culture and architecture.
• Continue to the Royal Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the Hassan Tower, two of the most iconic monuments in Morocco, representing the country’s rich royal history, Islamic heritage, and architectural splendour in the heart of the imperial city of Rabat.

Dinner and overnight stay in a charming riad or hotel in Rabat.

Day 2: Rabat – Meknes – Volubilis – Moulay Idriss – Fes

Depart along the Mamora forest to the imperial city of Meknes, a legacy of Sultan Moulay Ismail.

Explore:

• Discover Bab Mansour, one of the most beautiful and best-preserved imperial gates in Morocco, famous for its grand zellige tilework, intricate carvings, and monumental architecture — a masterpiece of Meknes’s historical medina and a must-see for lovers of Moroccan art and culture.
• Stroll through El Hedim Square, the lively heart of Meknes, where you can experience traditional Moroccan street life, local vendors, and vibrant energy. Optionally, visit the impressive Royal Granaries and stables, a legacy of Sultan Moulay Ismail’s ambitious rule, showcasing the scale of Morocco’s imperial past.
• Next, visit the remarkable Roman archaeological site of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa. Wander among the ancient mosaics, majestic Capitoline temple, Basilica, and triumphal arch, all surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills — a paradise for lovers of history, archaeology, and Moroccan heritage. Continue to the sacred town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, dramatically perched on two hills and one of Morocco’s most revered pilgrimage sites. Admire the whitewashed buildings, panoramic views, and spiritual significance of the tomb of Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the first Moroccan Islamic dynasty.

Arrival in Fes in the evening. Overnight in a traditional riad in the medina.

Day 3: Fes – Full Day Guided Tour

Discover Fes el-Bali, the oldest imperial city in Morocco and a spiritual center.

• Begin your guided tour of Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart, with a visit to the Medersa Bou Inania, a masterpiece of Marinid architecture. Continue to the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University, recognized by UNESCO as the oldest continuously operating university in the world, and admire the intricate tilework of the Attarine Madrasa.
• Wander through the ancient souks and vibrant tanneries of Fes el-Bali, where centuries-old leather-making traditions come alive. Witness artisans at work and soak in the sights, scents, and colors of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• In Fes el-Jdid, discover the grandeur of the Royal Palace, stroll through the Mellah (historic Jewish Quarter), and enjoy panoramic views of the city from Borj Nord, one of Fes’s best viewpoints.

Arrive in Fes by evening and settle into a charming traditional riad in the heart of the Fes medina, ready to explore the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco.

Day 4: Fes – Ifrane – Cedar Forest – Ziz Valley – Merzouga (Camel Trek & Night in the Desert)

Early departure toward the Sahara. Pass through:

• Travel through Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland of Morocco”, a charming mountain town known for its European alpine-style architecture, clean streets, and cool climate — a unique stop that feels worlds apart from the desert landscapes to come.
• Continue to the Cedar Forest of Azrou, home to centuries-old cedar trees and the famous Barbary macaques. This scenic forest offers a refreshing natural escape and a chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat — ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
• Enjoy lunch in Midelt, a peaceful town nestled at the foot of the majestic Middle Atlas Mountains, surrounded by apple orchards and dramatic rock formations. It’s the perfect place to recharge before your journey deeper into the Sahara Desert.
• In the afternoon, journey through the breathtaking Ziz Valley, one of Morocco’s hidden gems, lined with lush palm groves, ancient kasbahs, and traditional Berber villages. This scenic drive offers a true glimpse into the authentic desert life as you head toward Erfoud, the gateway to the Sahara, and onward to Merzouga.
• At the edge of the desert, mount your camel and ride into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi to watch the sunset. Arrive at your luxury desert camp with private en-suite tents.

Dinner and Berber music under the stars.

Day 5: Merzouga – Khamlia – Taouz – Ouzina (4×4 Sahara Off-Road Adventure)

After breakfast, day 5 from our 9-day tour begin your off-road 4×4 journey following the old Dakar Rally route through the dunes.

• Discover the soul of the Sahara in Khamlia village, home to the enchanting Gnawa musicians, masters of African desert blues whose rhythms echo the spirit of the dunes. Journey off-road to Taouz, then deeper into the wild Ouzina Desert, following part of the legendary Paris-Dakar Rally route.
• Stop for traditional Berber tea with a nomadic family, and gain insight into the authentic lifestyle of the Sahara’s resilient inhabitants.
• Visit a local Berber family for traditional tea and experience firsthand the authentic nomadic desert lifestyle, rich in hospitality, simplicity, and ancestral wisdom. This unique cultural exchange offers a deeper connection to the Sahara beyond its landscapes.
• Afterwards, arrive at your desert lodge in Ouzina, your peaceful retreat nestled among the remote dunes—a true escape into the silence and beauty of the Moroccan Sahara.

After dinner, enjoy live Berber drumming and storytelling by the fire.

Day 6: Ouzina – Ramlia – Alnif – Todgha Gorges – Dades Valley

Continue the adventure through Ramlia and Alnif, passing wild desert scenery, oasis villages, and mountain passes.

• Reach the breathtaking Todra Gorges, where towering 300-meter cliffs rise above a stunning canyon—a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. An optional walk through the gorge offers close encounters with local Berber life and traditions nestled in the nearby villages.
• Enjoy an optional walk through the dramatic Todra Gorge and discover authentic Berber villages, offering a unique glimpse into traditional Moroccan mountain life.
• Continue your journey through the picturesque Dades Valley, renowned for its spectacular rock formations, winding roads, and centuries-old ksour (fortified villages)—an unforgettable drive through Morocco’s most scenic landscapes.

Dinner and overnight in a kasbah-style hotel in the valley.

Day 7: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas – Marrakech

Day 7 from our 9-day tour we will Travel through the Valley of the Roses and explore traditional Berber villages on your way to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.”

• Optional visit Atlas Film Studios or the historic Kasbah Taourirt in Ouarzazate, Morocco’s cinematic capital known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” where famous movies and series were filmed amidst stunning desert landscapes.
• Explore the legendary Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and top Morocco tourist attraction, featured in Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia—a must-see for history and film lovers alike.
• Travel across the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the panoramic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m), one of Morocco’s most scenic drives, offering breathtaking views on your way to the vibrant and exotic city of Marrakech.

Overnight in a beautiful riad near Jemaa el-Fnaa Square.

Day 8: Marrakech – Full Day City Tour

Discover the magic of Marrakech with a guided walking tour:

• Discover the architectural wonders of Marrakech by visiting the Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan design with intricate mosaics and lush gardens. Explore the Saadian Tombs, resting place of royal dynasties, and admire the grand Koutoubia Mosque—Marrakech’s most famous landmark and a symbol of Islamic architecture in Morocco. These are among the top historical attractions in Marrakech.
• Dive into the heart of the old medina and get lost in the colorful souks of Marrakech—one of the best places in Morocco to buy authentic crafts, handwoven rugs, spices, argan oil, and traditional Moroccan clothing. A guided tour through the souks will give you a real taste of Marrakech’s artisanal heritage and cultural traditions.
• Experience the magical atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa, the bustling main square of Marrakech. Recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, this square comes alive with snake charmers, henna artists, Berber musicians, sizzling street food, and evening performances—making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Marrakech.
• Optional stroll through the world-famous Majorelle Garden, a peaceful retreat filled with exotic plants, fountains, and bold cobalt blue accents. Created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, the garden is one of the most Instagrammable places in Marrakech. Also, an optional visit to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, which celebrates his legacy in Morocco.

Overnight in your riad in the medina.

Day 9: Marrakech – Departure

Breakfast and transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport according to your flight schedule here our 9-day tour ends.

What’s Included:

• Private transport in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle or minivan with A/C
• English/French/Spanish-speaking driver-guide throughout the tour
• 8 nights’ accommodation
• 5 nights in carefully selected riads/hotels
• 1 night in a luxury desert camp in Merzouga (with private en-suite bathroom)
• 1 night in a desert lodge in Ouzina
• 1 night in a hotel in the Dades Valley
• Daily breakfast
• 5 dinners (as specified in the desert and rural stops)
• Camel ride at sunset in the Merzouga dunes
• Sandboarding activity (optional)
• Local music entertainment in Ouzina
• Guided walking tours in Fes and Marrakech
• Entrance fees to major sites (Hassan II Mosque, historical medersas, etc.)
• Pick-up in Casablanca and drop-off in Marrakech
• Bottled water during desert travel
• Airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 9

What’s Not Included:

• International flights to/from Morocco
• Travel insurance (highly recommended)
• Lunches and beverages during meals (except water in the desert)
• Personal expenses (souvenirs, tips, hammam/spa, etc.)
• Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
• Entrance fees to optional sites (e.g., Atlas Film Studios, Majorelle Garden, YSL Museum)
• Tips for driver, guides, and camp staff (at your discretion)

Explore more of Morocco with the best guided tours:

• Tailor Made
• 3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Adventure
• Morocco in Five Days: A Journey Through Time and Terrain- guided tour
• Saharan Sands to City Souks: A 6-Day guided Moroccan Tour