12-Day Grand Tour: Casablanca, Imperial Cities, Desert, Gorges, Valleys & Coast

12-Day Imperial Cities, Desert, Valleys & Atlantic Coast Tour from Casablanca

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca
Welcome to Morocco! Upon arrival at Casablanca airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel or riad to relax and settle in.

Day 2: Casablanca – Rabat
After breakfast, begin your journey with a visit to the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world and the only mosque in Morocco open to non-Muslims. Enjoy a stroll along Casablanca’s coastal Corniche before heading to the capital, Rabat. Here, you’ll explore the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Oudaya Kasbah, offering views over the Atlantic Ocean. Overnight stay in a charming riad in Rabat’s medina.

Day 3: Rabat – Meknes – Volubilis – Fes
Depart Rabat and drive to Meknes, the former imperial city of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Visit the grand Bab Mansour gate, the Sahrij Souani granary, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Then head to the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning mosaics and ancient architecture. Pass by the sacred town of Moulay Idriss for a quick photo stop before continuing to Fes. Overnight at a traditional riad.

Day 4: Full Day Exploring Fes
Spend the day discovering the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco. Wander through Fes el-Bali, the oldest part of the city, with its maze-like alleyways and historic medersas, tanneries, and artisan quarters. Visit the University of Al Karaouine, the world’s oldest still-operating university, the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), and the beautiful Nejjarine Fountain. End the day with a panoramic view over the medina. Overnight at your riad.

Day 5: Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
Travel south through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” and the cedar forests of Azrou where Barbary macaques roam. After lunch in Midelt, continue through the scenic Ziz Valley and its vast palm groves. Arrive in Merzouga, at the edge of the Sahara Desert. Relax with a traditional mint tea before settling into your riad for the night.

Day 6: Merzouga Exploration – Camel Trek – Desert Camp
After breakfast, explore the Merzouga area, visiting the Gnawa village of Khamlia and the seasonal lake of Merzouga, home to migratory birds like flamingos. You’ll also visit the traditional market town of Rissani. In the afternoon, ride camels into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi and watch the sunset over the desert. Enjoy dinner and music under the stars in a Berber-style camp with comfortable amenities.

Day 7: Merzouga – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley
Wake early to watch the sunrise over the dunes, then return to Merzouga by camel. After breakfast, head towards the spectacular Todra Gorge, where towering cliffs frame a narrow canyon popular with rock climbers. After lunch, continue through the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic rock formations and kasbahs. Overnight in a hotel overlooking the valley.

Day 8: Dades Valley – Skoura – Ouarzazate
Drive the scenic “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” passing traditional Berber villages and beautiful valleys. Stop at Kalaat Mgouna, famous for its Damascus roses and rose-based products, then visit the historic Amridil Kasbah in Skoura. Arrive in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” for the night.

Day 9: Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Tizi n’Tichka Pass – Marrakech
Visit the Taourirt Kasbah and Atlas Film Studios before traveling to Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar and filming location for movies such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), arriving in Marrakech by evening. Overnight in a traditional riad.

Day 10: Day Trip to Essaouira
Enjoy a full-day excursion to the charming coastal city of Essaouira. Explore its medina, ramparts, fishing port, and souks. Visit a women’s argan oil cooperative and admire the blend of Portuguese, French, and Berber architecture. Return to Marrakech in the late afternoon. Overnight at your riad.

Day 11: Free Day in Marrakech
Use this free day to explore Marrakech at your own pace. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs, the Bahia Palace, and the vibrant souks. Stroll through the peaceful Majorelle Garden and the modern Gueliz district. End your day at the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square with its musicians, storytellers, food stalls, and entertainers. Overnight stay in Marrakech.

Day 12: Departure – Marrakech or Casablanca Airport
After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to the airport in either Marrakech or Casablanca, depending on your departure plans. End of your unforgettable Moroccan adventure.