8 Days tour from Casablanca to Desert & old cities

Embarking on an 8-day tour from Casablanca promises an unforgettable adventure that captures the essence of Morocco’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. This carefully crafted itinerary takes you from the cosmopolitan city of Casablanca to the enchanting Sahara Desert and the ancient medinas of the imperial cities. Let’s explore the highlights of this remarkable journey.

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Welcome to Casablanca

Your Moroccan adventure begins in Casablanca, the largest city in the country and a bustling hub of commerce and culture. After landing, you’ll be transferred to your hotel to freshen up and relax.

Exploring Casablanca

In the afternoon, set out to explore some of the city’s most iconic sights.

Key Highlights:

• Hassan II Mosque: This architectural masterpiece is the largest mosque in Morocco and one of the few that allows non-Muslims to enter. The intricate tile work and stunning oceanfront location make it a must-see.
• Royal Palace: While you can’t enter, the palace’s beautiful architecture and well-maintained gardens provide a great backdrop for photographs.
• Corniche: Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, a seaside promenade lined with cafés and restaurants, perfect for a sunset view.

Dinner in Casablanca

Enjoy your first dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagine and pastilla.

Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat

Morning Departure to Rabat

After breakfast, depart for Rabat, Morocco’s capital, located just over an hour away from Casablanca.

Exploring Rabat

Upon arrival, embark on a guided tour of Rabat’s key attractions.

Key Highlights:

• Hassan Tower: Visit this historical minaret that stands as a symbol of Rabat.
• Mausoleum of Mohammed V: Explore the beautifully designed mausoleum, which houses the tombs of the late king and his two sons.
• Kasbah of the Udayas: Wander through this charming kasbah with its narrow, blue-and-white painted streets.

Lunch in Rabat

Savor a delicious lunch at a local café, sampling Moroccan favorites like couscous or harira.

Evening Leisure in Rabat

Spend your evening at leisure, perhaps visiting local shops or enjoying a quiet walk along the Bou Regreg River.

Day 3: Rabat to Chefchaouen

Journey to Chefchaouen

After breakfast, set off for Chefchaouen, known as the “Blue City.” This scenic drive through the Rif Mountains will take approximately four hours.

Exploring Chefchaouen

Arrive in Chefchaouen and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the town.

Key Highlights:

• Medina of Chefchaouen: Wander the winding streets adorned with blue-painted buildings, artisanal shops, and cafés.
• Plaza Uta el-Hammam: Relax in this lively square, enjoying a cup of mint tea while soaking in the atmosphere.

Dinner in Chefchaouen

Indulge in dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying dishes prepared with fresh ingredients from the region.

Day 4: Chefchaouen to Fes

Morning Departure to Fes

After breakfast, leave for Fes, one of the oldest and most culturally rich cities in Morocco, known for its medieval architecture and vibrant souks.

Exploring Fes

Upon arrival, check into your hotel before embarking on a guided tour of the Fes Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Key Highlights:

• Bou Inania Madrasa: Visit this stunning theological college known for its intricate architecture and beautiful tile work.
• Chouara Tannery: Observe the traditional leather-making process at the famous tannery, where vibrant dyes are used to color the hides.

Dinner in Fes

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant, where you can savor Fassi cuisine, famous for its unique flavors.

Day 5: Fes to Merzouga

Journey to Merzouga

After breakfast, depart for Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. This journey takes around seven hours, passing through beautiful landscapes and traditional Berber villages.

Exploring the Desert

Arrive in Merzouga in the afternoon. Prepare for an unforgettable camel trek into the Sahara.

Sunset Camel Ride

Ride camels across the majestic sand dunes and witness a breathtaking sunset over the Sahara. Arrive at your desert camp where you’ll enjoy a Berber dinner under a canopy of stars.

Day 6: Merzouga to Marrakech

Early Morning in the Desert

Wake up early to experience the magical sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast at the camp, ride your camels back to Merzouga.

Journey to Marrakech

After a morning of leisure, set off for Marrakech. The drive takes approximately 10 hours, so prepare for a scenic but long journey through the High Atlas Mountains.

Exploring Marrakech

Arrive in Marrakech in the evening and check into your hotel. If time permits, take a stroll through Jemaa el-Fnaa, the bustling square filled with street performers, food stalls, and local shops.

Dinner in Marrakech

Savor a delicious dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant, sampling local delicacies.

Day 7: Full Day in Marrakech

Exploring Marrakech

Spend your full day immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and history of Marrakech.

Key Highlights:

• Koutoubia Mosque: Visit this iconic mosque known for its stunning minaret.
• Saadian Tombs: Explore the intricately decorated tombs of the Saadian dynasty.
• Bahia Palace: Wander through this beautiful palace, known for its lush gardens and ornate architecture.

Lunch in Marrakech

Enjoy lunch at a local café, trying out more Moroccan dishes.

Shopping in Marrakech

In the afternoon, explore the bustling souks, where you can shop for handicrafts, spices, and textiles to bring home a piece of Morocco with you.

Day 8: Departure from Marrakech

Leisurely Morning

On your final morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, take some time to relax or do some last-minute shopping in the medina.

Transfer to Airport

As your 8-day tour from Casablanca comes to a close, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, filled with unforgettable memories of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage.

This 8-day tour from Casablanca to the Desert and Old Cities offers a unique blend of urban exploration, cultural experiences, and the enchanting beauty of the Sahara. Whether you’re wandering the blue streets of Chefchaouen or riding camels at sunset, each moment of this journey will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for Morocco’s vibrant culture.