8-Day Tour: Marrakech, Southern Morocco & Berber Villages
8-Day Tour: Imperial Cities, Desert & Gorges — From Casablanca to Marrakech
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Rabat – Meknes
Welcome to Morocco! Upon arrival at Casablanca Airport or pick-up from your hotel, your tour begins with a visit to the Hassan II Mosque — one of the largest in the world and the only mosque in Morocco open to non-Muslims. This majestic structure, blending modern engineering with traditional Moorish architecture, can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers inside and 80,000 outside.
We then head to Rabat, Morocco’s capital. Highlights include the Chellah necropolis, an enchanting mix of Roman ruins and medieval Islamic architecture; the impressive Hassan Tower, and the white marble Mausoleum of Mohammed V.
After touring Rabat, we continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, built in the 17th century by Sultan Moulay Ismail. The city is known for its monumental gates, mosques, and medersas. Overnight in Meknes.
Day 2: Meknes – Volubilis – Fes
After breakfast, we explore Meknes beginning with the Royal Granaries of Sahrij Swani, built to store food and water for Moulay Ismail’s army. We also visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and admire the striking Bab Mansour Gate, one of the most beautiful in North Africa.
Next, we travel 30 km to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved mosaics, Latin inscriptions, and remnants of Roman buildings.
In the afternoon, we continue to the spiritual heart of Morocco: Fes. Overnight stay in Fes.
Day 3: Fes – Guided City Tour
After breakfast, meet your local guide for a full-day exploration of Fes el-Bali, the ancient walled city and Morocco’s oldest imperial capital. Get lost in a maze of over 9,000 alleyways filled with vibrant markets, artisan workshops, and historic sites.
Visit the Chouara Tanneries, one of the oldest in the world, where leather is still dyed by hand using traditional methods. Stop by pottery cooperatives, where artisans craft exquisite Moroccan mosaics and zellige tiles.
Other highlights include the Al-Qarawiyyin University (the oldest functioning university in the world), Bou Inania Madrasa, and the South Tower viewpoint, offering panoramic views over the medina. Optionally, you can enjoy a traditional dinner show featuring Moroccan cuisine and entertainment. Overnight in Fes.
Day 4: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
Today we journey south across the Middle Atlas Mountains, with scenic stops along the way. First is Ifrane, often called « the Switzerland of Morocco » for its alpine-style architecture and clean mountain air. We then visit Azrou’s cedar forest, home to the native Barbary macaques.
After a lunch break in Midelt, known for its apple festival, we cross the dramatic Ziz Valley and continue through the arid landscapes of eastern Morocco to reach the Sahara Desert in Merzouga.
Optional: enjoy a camel ride into the dunes for sunset or a night under the stars in a desert camp. Overnight in Merzouga or desert camp.
Day 5: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley – Ouarzazate
After breakfast, we leave the desert behind and drive through El Jorf, where we discover ancient underground irrigation channels still in use today. We then pass through Tinejdad before stopping for lunch in the beautiful Todra Valley — one of Morocco’s oldest caravan routes and where the country’s first silver coins were minted.
Marvel at the towering cliffs of the Todra Gorges, a haven for rock climbers and a perfect picnic spot. Our journey continues through the scenic Dades Valley, known for its bizarre rock formations (“Monkey Fingers”) created by centuries of erosion.
We pass through the Valley of Roses, the only region in Morocco where Damask roses are grown for rose water and essential oils. Overnight in Ouarzazate.
Day 6: Ouarzazate – Aït Ben Haddou – Telouet – Marrakech
After breakfast, we visit two iconic sites in this « Hollywood of Africa »: the Taourirt Kasbah, a fine example of Berber mud-brick architecture, and the Atlas Film Studios, where films like Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, and Game of Thrones were shot.
We then head to the UNESCO-listed village of Aït Ben Haddou, a stunning ksar of fortified earthen buildings. After exploring this architectural gem, we continue to the Telouet Kasbah, once the stronghold of Thami El Glaoui, Pasha of Marrakech, and a key stop on ancient caravan routes.
In the afternoon, we cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), arriving in Marrakech by evening. Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 7: Marrakech – Guided City Tour
After breakfast, join a local guide for a deep dive into the rich heritage of Marrakech, the Red City.
Visit the exquisite Bahia Palace, with its intricate mosaics and tales of sultans, wives, and concubines. Explore the stunning Saadian Tombs, dating back to the 16th century. Wander through the souks of the medina, where every turn reveals vibrant colors, exotic scents, and handcrafted goods.
Then relax in the tranquil Majorelle Garden, created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent. Finish your tour in the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where storytellers, musicians, snake charmers, and food stalls come alive in the evening. Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 8: Marrakech – Casablanca / Departure
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to either Marrakech or Casablanca airport for your departure.
End of our services.