9 Days Desert Tour from Casablanca
Experience the beauty and charm of Morocco with our 9-day desert tour from Casablanca. This captivating journey takes you through vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and the majestic Sahara Desert, providing a comprehensive look at the rich culture and history of this enchanting country.
Tour Overview
This tour will guide you from the bustling metropolis of Casablanca to the sandy dunes of Merzouga, including stops in historical cities like Marrakech and Fez, as well as natural wonders like the Atlas Mountains and the Dades Valley. Enjoy a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration in one unforgettable experience.
Detailed Itinerary for the 9 Days Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca
Welcome to Casablanca
Arrive in Casablanca, where you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. Take a moment to relax after your journey.
Evening City Exploration
In the evening, visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco, known for its stunning architecture. After the tour, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Casablanca to Marrakech
Journey to Marrakech
After breakfast, set off for Marrakech, approximately a 2.5-hour drive. Check in to your accommodation upon arrival and prepare for a day of exploration.
Marrakech City Tour
Start your guided tour with visits to:
- Koutoubia Mosque: Admire its stunning minaret, an iconic symbol of the city.
- Saadian Tombs: Discover the beautiful architecture and history of these royal tombs.
- Bahia Palace: Explore the exquisite gardens and rooms of this grand palace.
Evening at Jemaa el-Fnaa
As night falls, head to Jemaa el-Fnaa, a lively square filled with entertainers and food stalls. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in delicious Moroccan street food.
Day 3: Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate
Scenic Drive to Ait Ben Haddou
Depart for Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its fortified village architecture. The drive takes you through the stunning Atlas Mountains.
Explore Ait Ben Haddou
Take a guided tour of Ait Ben Haddou, where you can explore the ancient kasbah and its striking mud-brick buildings. This site has served as a backdrop for numerous films, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Ouarzazate Exploration
Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Visit the Atlas Film Studios, where many famous movies were filmed. Spend the night in Ouarzazate, enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 4: Ouarzazate to Dades Valley
Drive to Dades Valley
After breakfast, set off for Dades Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and dramatic rock formations.
Visit Tinghir
Make a stop in Tinghir, a town known for its beautiful palm groves. Explore the Todgha Gorge, a popular destination for hikers and rock climbers, characterized by towering cliffs.
Arrival in Dades Valley
Check in to your accommodation in Dades Valley. Spend the evening enjoying the tranquil surroundings and a delicious dinner.
Day 5: Dades Valley to Merzouga
Journey to Merzouga
After breakfast, depart for Merzouga, a village located near the edge of the Sahara Desert. Enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way, including the famous Dades Gorges.
Camel Trekking Experience
Upon arrival in Merzouga, embark on a thrilling camel trek into the Sahara Desert. Watch the sunset over the sand dunes, a breathtaking sight that will leave you in awe.
Overnight in a Desert Camp
Arrive at a traditional Berber camp where you will enjoy a night under the stars, complete with a delicious dinner and cultural entertainment.
Day 6: Exploring the Sahara Desert
Desert Sunrise
Wake up early to witness a magnificent sunrise over the dunes. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at the camp.
Desert Adventures
Spend the day exploring the Sahara Desert. Engage in activities such as sandboarding, quad biking, or visiting nearby nomadic families to learn about their lifestyle.
Return to Camp
In the evening, return to your camp for another night of stargazing and enjoying a traditional Berber meal.
Day 7: Merzouga to Fez
Departure for Fez
After breakfast, begin your journey to Fez, a drive of approximately 7-8 hours. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and picturesque villages along the way.
Lunch Stop
Stop for lunch en route, perhaps in Midelt, surrounded by the majestic Atlas Mountains.
Arrival in Fez
Check in to your accommodation and relax before dinner. Spend the evening exploring the local medina at your leisure.
Day 8: Full Day Tour of Fez
Guided Tour of Fez
After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided tour of Fez, Morocco’s cultural capital. Visit highlights including:
- Fez el-Bali: The historic medina, where you can wander through its narrow streets and experience the bustling atmosphere.
- Bou Inania Madrasa: A beautiful religious school known for its intricate tile work and architecture.
- Al Quaraouiyine University: The oldest existing university in the world, founded in 859 AD.
Lunch in the Medina
Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant, tasting local specialties.
Afternoon Visits
Visit the Chouara Tannery, one of the oldest tanneries in the world, and learn about the traditional leather-making process.
Day 9: Fez to Casablanca
Return to Casablanca
After breakfast, embark on your journey back to Casablanca, which takes about 3 hours.
Visit Rabat
On the way, stop in Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. Visit key sites such as the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.
Final Evening in Casablanca
Arrive in Casablanca and enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping or relaxation. In the evening, have a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on your incredible journey through Morocco.
Why Choose This Tour?
- Comprehensive Itinerary: This tour covers major highlights of Morocco, offering a well-rounded experience.
- Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your experience with cultural insights and stories.
- Comfortable Accommodations: Enjoy a variety of accommodations, from hotels to desert camps.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage with local communities and experience traditional Moroccan culture firsthand.
This 9-day desert tour from Casablanca offers a unique opportunity to explore Morocco’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the bustling streets of Casablanca to the serene dunes of the Sahara, this journey promises to create memories that will last a lifetime.