Morocco Imperial Cities & Desert Tour From Marrakech to Casablanca
(142 Reviews)
Overview
Journey across Morocco on this 12-day private adventure from Marrakech to Casablanca, a seamless blend of imperial heritage, mountain landscapes, and Sahara desert magic. This route connects the red city of Marrakech with Fes, Chefchaouen, Tangier, and the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. You’ll experience guided city tours, camel rides at sunset, local cuisine, and stays in elegant riads and a luxury desert camp. From Roman ruins to blue medinas, this journey captures the full spirit of Morocco’s culture, color, and charm.
Trip Highlights
- Discover Morocco’s iconic imperial cities: Marrakech, Fes, Meknes & Casablanca.
- Explore Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate, gateways to the Sahara.
- Camel trekking and overnight stay in a 5★ luxury desert camp under the stars.
- Visit Roman ruins at Volubilis and the blue streets of Chefchaouen.
- Enjoy guided tours of Fes and Marrakech with licensed local experts.
- Travel through the Atlas Mountains, Berber villages, and Ziz Valley.
- Experience Gnawa music in Khamlia and meet desert nomads.
- Stay in hand-picked 4★–5★ accommodations throughout your journey.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Marrakech
Day 2 – Exploring Marrakech (Full Day)
Day 3 – Marrakech → High Atlas Mountains → Ait Benhaddou → Ouarzazate
Depart after breakfast for an adventurous drive across the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m). Enjoy breathtaking views of valleys, terraced villages, and winding roads. Stop for photos and tea breaks before reaching the famous Ait Benhaddou Kasbah — a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient earthen architecture and role in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Explore the narrow lanes of this fortified village, then continue to Ouarzazate, nicknamed “Hollywood of Africa” for its film studios and desert backdrops. Dinner and overnight at a charming 4★ riad.
Day 4 – Ouarzazate → Todra Gorges → Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, journey through the palm groves of Skoura, where ancient kasbahs rise among lush oases. Continue through Kelaat M’Gouna, the Valley of Roses — famous for its fragrant rose products and annual festival. Pass through Boumalne Dades and Tinghir before reaching the majestic Todra Gorges, where towering cliffs create one of Morocco’s most stunning natural spectacles.
In the afternoon, head toward Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Upon arrival, mount your camel for an unforgettable sunset ride across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Enjoy dinner under the stars and traditional Berber drumming around the campfire before sleeping in your 5★ luxury desert tent.
Day 5 – Desert Discovery by 4x4 & Nomadic Life
Wake early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes — a truly magical sight. After breakfast at camp, ride your camel or drive back to Merzouga village, then set out on a 4WD desert excursion. Visit fossil areas, nomadic families living in traditional tents, and Khamlia village, home to the Gnawa people known for their hypnotic music. Stop at Dayet Srij Lake (when full) to spot flamingos and other wildlife. In the afternoon, visit an oasis and learn about underground irrigation channels. Dinner and overnight at a 5★ desert riad.
Day 6 – Merzouga → Ziz Valley → Midelt → Azrou → Ifrane → Fes
Today’s journey reveals Morocco’s geographical diversity. Depart from Merzouga through the Ziz Valley, lined with palm groves and ancient kasbahs. Stop in Midelt, nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, for lunch and scenic mountain views. Continue to the cedar forests of Azrou, where you can spot and feed Barbary macaque monkeys, then pass through the alpine-style town of Ifrane, often called “the Moroccan Switzerland.” Arrive in Fes by evening for dinner and overnight.
Day 7 – Exploring Fes (Full Day)
Spend a full day discovering the cultural and spiritual capital of Morocco. Begin at Bab Boujloud, the iconic blue gate leading into Fes el-Bali — the oldest and best-preserved medina in the Arab world. Visit the Bou Inania Medersa, Al Quaraouiyyine University (the world’s oldest functioning university), and the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts.
Walk through the aromatic tanneries, visit the Attarine Medersa, and explore the vibrant souks where artisans craft leather, metal, and ceramics. Fes offers a living museum of Moroccan heritage. Dinner and overnight at your riad.
Day 8 – Fes → Meknes → Volubilis → Chefchaouen
Day 9 – Exploring Chefchaouen
Begin the day with a guided tour of Chefchaouen, Morocco’s “Blue Pearl.” Visit the Kasbah and ethnographic museum in the main square of Plaza Uta el-Hammam, then wander through narrow streets adorned with flower pots and indigo-blue doors. This mountain town offers one of the most photogenic medinas in the country. Spend the afternoon exploring its artisan workshops or relaxing in a café overlooking the mountains. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 10 – Chefchaouen → Tetouan → Tangier
After breakfast, travel through the scenic Rif Mountains toward Tetouan, a city known for its Andalusian influence and whitewashed medina. Visit its UNESCO-listed old town and the National Artisanal School before continuing along the Mediterranean coast to Tangier. Enjoy a short panoramic tour of Tangier’s modern neighborhoods and seafront promenade before dinner and overnight at your 4★ hotel.
Day 11 – Tangier → Asilah → Casablanca
Depart for Asilah, a peaceful coastal town famed for its art scene and colorful murals. Stroll along the ramparts and whitewashed streets before heading south to Casablanca. Upon arrival, visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque (exterior visit) and enjoy your final dinner in Morocco’s economic capital. Overnight at a 4★ seaside hotel.
Day 12 – Casablanca Airport
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then transfer to Mohammed V International Airport for your departing flight.
After breakfast, drive to the imperial city of Meknes, once the capital under Sultan Moulay Ismail. Visit Bab Mansour Gate, Lahdim Square, and the royal stables. Continue to Volubilis to explore its remarkably preserved Roman ruins — complete with mosaic floors and triumphal arches.
In the afternoon, journey north into the Rif Mountains, reaching Chefchaouen by evening. Admire its striking blue-washed alleys and relaxed atmosphere. Dinner and overnight at a 4★ riad or hotel.
What's included
- Pick-up from Marrakech Airport & drop-off at Casablanca Airport
- Private air-conditioned minibus
- English-speaking driver throughout the tour
- Licensed local guides in Marrakech & Fes
- Monument entrance fees
- 10 nights in 4★ hotels / riads + 1 night in a 5★ luxury desert camp
- Private tent with bathroom & hot shower
- 4x4 desert excursion & nomad visit
- Camel trekking at sunset & sunrise
- Moroccan folklore show at camp
- Breakfasts and dinners daily (vegetarian options available)
- Free time for photo stops, walks, and discovery
What’s Not Included
- Lunches (except Day 2)
- Beverages & personal expenses
- Tips for driver or guides
Know Before You Go
- Tour available year-round and fully customizable.
- 4★ hotels and riads used throughout; desert camp is 5★ luxury.
- Pack comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing.
- Itinerary pace is moderate with scenic and cultural stops daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this a private or shared tour?
This is a completely private tour with your own driver and guide — ideal for couples, families, or small groups.
2. Are camel rides included?
Yes, both sunset and sunrise camel rides in the Sahara are included.
3. What level of comfort can I expect in the desert?
You’ll stay in a luxury 5★ camp with private ensuite tents, electricity, and hot showers.
4. Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary needs can be arranged.
5. Is Wi-Fi available everywhere?
Yes, all hotels and the desert camp provide Wi-Fi access.
6. When is the best season for this tour?
Spring (March–June) and autumn (September–November) offer ideal weather.
7. How long are the driving days?
Usually between 3–5 hours with scenic and cultural stops along the way.
8. Can the route start in Casablanca instead?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible and can be reversed upon request.
Contact Us
Explore Similar Tours
- 9-Day Morocco Imperial Cities Tour From Marrakech to Chefchaouen
(123 Reviews)
- 9 days / 8 nights
- From Marrakech
- 2 People Minimum
- 10-Day Morocco Imperial Cities & Desert Tour from Casablanca
(145 Reviews)
- 10 days / 9 nights
- From Casablanca
- 2 People Minimum
- 9-Day Desert Tour From Tangier To Marrakech Via Blue City
(141 Reviews)
- 9 Days / 8 nights
- From Tangier
- 2 People Minimum
- 7-Day Morocco Imperial Cities Tour from Casablanca
(140 Reviews)
- 7 days / 6 nights
- From Casablanca
- 2 People Minimum