12 Day Morocco desert tour from Casablanca covering imperial cities, Sahara dunes, Atlas Mountains, and coastal towns with authentic local experiences.
12 Day Morocco Desert Tour From Casablanca
12 Day Desert Tour From Casablanca
- Tour Detail
A trip through Morocco offers far more than a simple trip between cities. Over twelve unforgettable days, this route reveals the country’s rich heritage, dramatic landscapes, and centuries-old traditions. From the Atlantic coast to the vast Sahara dunes, each stage introduces a new chapter of Morocco’s story. Beginning in Casablanca, Morocco’s modern economic center, the itinerary gradually unfolds toward historic capitals and mountain towns.
The road continues north to Rabat and the picturesque blue streets of Chefchaouen, before reaching ancient Roman ruins and the imperial cities of Meknes and Fes. Soon the scenery shifts once again. Forested mountains, quiet valleys, and desert plains lead travelers to the golden dunes of Merzouga, where camel rides and nights under the stars create memories that last a lifetime. The adventure continues through dramatic gorges, historic kasbahs, and the spectacular High Atlas Mountains.
- Itinerary
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Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca
Your Moroccan tour begins in Casablanca, where you will be welcomed at the airport or your accommodation. Known as the country’s economic center, the city blends modern life with historic landmarks. The first highlight of the day is a visit to the impressive Hassan II Mosque, a monumental structure standing beside the Atlantic Ocean. Its intricate decoration, enormous prayer hall, and coastal location make it one of the most remarkable religious sites in the country.
Later, the tour continues through several notable areas of Casablanca. A stop at Mohammed V Square reveals elegant buildings from the colonial era, while a short photo stop at Rick’s Café recalls the famous Hollywood film that made the city known worldwide. The day may also include a relaxing walk along the Corniche, a lively seaside promenade lined with cafés and restaurants.
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Day 2: Casablanca – Rabat – Chefchaouen
After breakfast, the journey follows the Atlantic coastline toward Rabat, Morocco’s capital and one of its historic imperial cities. In Rabat, the tour introduces several major landmarks including the Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret dating back to the 12th century, and the elegant Mausoleum of Mohammed V, where Moroccan royalty are buried. Later in the afternoon, the road continues north through scenic countryside and the town of Ouazzane until reaching the Rif Mountains. Hidden among these hills lies Chefchaouen, famous for its blue-painted houses and relaxed atmosphere.
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Day 3: Exploring Chefchaouen – The Blue City
Morning light reveals the beauty of Chefchaouen, a mountain town known for its blue walls, quiet squares, and artistic atmosphere. The day begins with a walk through the old medina, where narrow alleys are decorated with blue doors, flower pots, and whitewashed houses. Small markets sell traditional handicrafts, woven textiles, and handmade goods unique to the region. After some free time for lunch, the afternoon offers the opportunity to walk toward the Spanish Mosque, located on a hill overlooking the town. From this viewpoint, the entire blue city spreads out below against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains.
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Day 4: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Fes
Leaving the mountains behind, the journey heads south toward one of Morocco’s most important archaeological sites. The ancient ruins of Volubilis reveal traces of the Roman Empire that once ruled parts of North Africa. Walking among the remaining columns, archways, and detailed mosaics provides a fascinating look into life nearly two thousand years ago. Next comes a visit to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial capitals during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Here you will see the monumental Bab Mansour gate, the Sahrij Souani basin, the royal granaries, and the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum. In the late afternoon the tour continues toward Fes, where you will spend the night in a traditional riad.
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Day 5: Guided Tour of Fes
Fes is widely considered Morocco’s cultural and spiritual center. Today’s guided tour reveals the remarkable history hidden within its ancient walls. The morning begins with a short drive to several important viewpoints and landmarks, including the magnificent Royal Palace gate and the historic Jewish Quarter (Mellah). A stop at Borj Sud provides panoramic views over the old city, followed by a visit to a ceramics workshop where skilled artisans continue centuries-old techniques. The exploration continues on foot inside the Fes Medina, one of the largest medieval cities in the world. Accompanied by a local guide, you will discover historic schools such as Al Attarine Madrasa, the famous Al Quaraouiyine University, and the colorful Chouara Tanneries, where leather is dyed using traditional methods.
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Day 6: Fes – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
Leaving Fes behind, the route heads toward the Middle Atlas Mountains.The first stop is Ifrane, a town known for its alpine-style buildings and cool climate. Continuing south, the road passes through Midelt, a quiet town located between two mountain ranges. After lunch, the drive proceeds through the Tizi n'Tilght Pass and the beautiful Ziz Valley, where thousands of palm trees stretch across the landscape. By late afternoon the desert village of Merzouga appears at the edge of the Sahara. Camels await to carry travelers across the dunes of Erg Chebbi, where the changing colors of sunset create an unforgettable scene.
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Day 7: Discovering the Merzouga Region
Sunrise over the dunes is a peaceful moment worth waking up early for. After breakfast, return to the village of Merzouga by camel or 4×4 vehicle. Today focuses on discovering the desert surroundings. The excursion begins with a visit to an old eyeliner mine, followed by a stop to meet nomadic families who still live in traditional tents. Later, the journey continues to Khamlia village, where musicians perform traditional Gnawa music, reflecting the heritage of communities with roots in sub-Saharan Africa. The afternoon includes a walk through a palm grove and a visit to the seasonal Merzouga lake, sometimes home to flamingos and other birds.
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Day 8: Merzouga – Rissani – Tinghir – Dades Gorges
After breakfast, the tour leaves the desert and travels toward Rissani, once the capital of the ancient Tafilalet region. Its traditional market remains an important trading center for surrounding villages. Next comes Erfoud, well known for workshops that transform marine fossils into decorative stone. The road continues through palm-filled valleys until reaching Todra Gorge, where towering rock walls form a dramatic canyon carved by the river. Later in the day the drive continues toward Dades Valley, famous for unusual rock formations often called the “Monkey Fingers.” Several scenic stops reveal beautiful views across the valley before arriving at the hotel.
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Day 9: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Skoura – Ouarzazate – Marrakech
Today’s route passes through the fragrant Rose Valley, where roses are harvested each spring and used to produce oils, perfumes, and cosmetics. Further along lies the palm oasis of Skoura, home to historic kasbahs hidden among thousands of date palms. In Ouarzazate, the tour may stop near the famous film studios that have hosted many international productions. Soon after comes the legendary Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village built from earthen clay. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic settlement has appeared in numerous films and television series. The final part of the journey crosses the High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass before arriving in Marrakech for the night.
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Day 10: Guided Tour of Marrakech
Today is dedicated to discovering Marrakech, one of Morocco’s most historic and lively cities. With a local guide, you will visit the elegant Bahia Palace, followed by the beautiful Ben Youssef Madrasa, once an important Islamic school. The tour continues through the bustling medina and souks, where artisans sell leather goods, textiles, spices, and traditional crafts. In the afternoon, there is time to visit the famous Majorelle Garden before returning to your riad.
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Day 11: Marrakech – Essaouira
Leaving Marrakech behind, the journey heads west toward the Atlantic coast. Along the way, you may see argan trees and local cooperatives producing the well-known argan oil. Occasionally goats climb the trees in search of food, creating an unusual sight. Arrival in Essaouira, a historic port city formerly called Mogador. The town is known for its relaxed atmosphere, seafood restaurants, and ocean breeze. Free time allows you to explore the fishing harbor, the old city ramparts, and the charming medina.
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Day 12: Essaouira – Casablanca
On the final day, the route returns north along the Atlantic coast toward Casablanca. Arrival at Casablanca Airport marks the conclusion of your twelve-day journey across Morocco.
- Good To Know That
- Pick up at your riad / hotel in Casablanca.
- Transportation in a comfortable vehicle.
- Driver / English speaking guide.
- Dinners and breakfasts.
- Camel Trek.
- Night in desert camp with dinner and breakfast.
- Back to your hotel in Casablanca.
- International Airfare.
- Entry visa fee
- Extra not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Hassan II Mosque – 15 USD per person.
- Personal spendings.
- Optional activities.
- Meals and drinks.
- Tipping.
- Discover Rabat, Morocco’s political capital
- Explore the famous blue streets of Chefchaouen
- Walk through the Roman ruins of Volubilis
- Visit the imperial city of Meknes
- Guided exploration of the historic Fes Medina
- Stop in Ifrane, often called the Switzerland of Morocco
- See Barbary macaques in the Middle Atlas cedar forests
- Camel ride across the dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga
- Spend a night in a Sahara desert camp
- Visit Todra Gorge and Dades Valley
- Guided sightseeing in Marrakech
- Visit the Atlantic coastal town of Essaouira
- Map
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