11-Day Grand Tour of Morocco from Casablanca
Day 1: Casablanca – Rabat
Welcome to Morocco! Upon landing at Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca, your local driver-guide will greet you warmly and begin your Moroccan journey with a scenic introduction to the city.
Start by visiting the iconic Hassan II Mosque, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture perched above the Atlantic Ocean. Its towering minaret and intricate craftsmanship set the tone for the cultural richness to come.
Continue to the Habous Quarter, where French colonial charm meets traditional Moroccan souks. Visit the Jewish Museum, a unique and moving tribute to Morocco’s multicultural heritage, then enjoy a seaside drive along the Corniche, lined with cafés and ocean breeze.
In the afternoon, travel north to Rabat, Morocco’s tranquil capital. After hotel check-in, take a peaceful walk through the quiet medina or unwind in your riad. Dinner awaits at a local restaurant, featuring refined Moroccan cuisine. Overnight in Rabat.
Day 2: Rabat – Chefchaouen
Wake up to the coastal calm of Rabat and begin your morning tour at the Kasbah of the Udayas, a 15th-century fortress with charming Andalusian gardens and panoramic views over the Bou Regreg River.
Next, stand in awe before the unfinished Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a serene tribute to Moroccan royalty. Wander among the haunting ruins of Chellah, where ancient Roman columns blend with Islamic tombs, covered in wildflowers and birdsong.
After lunch, set off into Morocco’s northern countryside. Drive through the fertile plains of Gharb and into the lush Rif Mountains, a landscape of terraced fields and olive groves. As the sun begins to set, you arrive in the enchanting blue town of Chefchaouen, tucked in a mountain fold.
Wander the cobbled streets painted in shades of blue, soak in the peaceful mountain air, and enjoy dinner in a cozy riad or terrace café. Overnight in Chefchaouen.
Day 3: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fez
Spend the morning exploring the serene alleys of Chefchaouen, capturing photos of blue-washed walls, artisan shops, and tiled fountains. After breakfast, depart for the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walk among the ancient columns, triumphal arches, and mosaic floors that tell stories of a once-thriving city of the Roman Empire.
Continue to Meknes, a majestic imperial city. Explore the Bab Mansour gate, the Royal Stables, Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the massive granaries that once stored supplies for thousands of soldiers.
As the afternoon light softens, travel to Fez, where you’ll settle into your riad and relax with a traditional Moroccan dinner. Overnight in Fez.
Day 4: Exploring Fez
Today, dive into the rich tapestry of Fez el Bali, the oldest medina in Morocco and a UNESCO site. Accompanied by a local guide, begin your exploration with visits to the Jewish Quarter (Mellah) and the Royal Palace gates, then weave your way through the maze-like alleys of the medina.
Admire the colorful tanneries, the vibrant souks, and the Bou Inania Madrasa, a marvel of Marinid architecture.
See artisans at work in copper, leather, and ceramic workshops, continuing centuries-old traditions.
Later, stroll through Fez el Jedid and sip mint tea in a peaceful courtyard. If time permits, enjoy a sunset view over the medina from the Merenid Tombs. Overnight in Fez.
Day 5: Fez – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Erfoud – Merzouga
After breakfast, journey south into the Middle Atlas. First stop: Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style homes and clean, cool air. Next, pause in Azrou to see the cedar forests and the wild Barbary apes.
Continue to Midelt for a relaxing lunch amid views of the Ayachi Mountains.
The scenery changes as you approach Erfoud, the gateway to the desert. Explore its fossil workshops and markets.
By sunset, arrive at Merzouga, where golden dunes greet you. Settle into your kasbah-style hotel and enjoy a hearty dinner. Overnight in Merzouga.
Day 6: Merzouga Desert Adventure
Wake early to witness the sunrise over the dunes—a magical moment of color and silence. After breakfast, mount a camel for a trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes. Stop at a nomadic encampment to share tea and learn about desert life.
Enjoy a typical Berber lunch in the shade of tamarisk trees.
In the afternoon, return for a relaxing hammam or traditional massage, or explore Khamlia village, known for its Gnawa music.
As night falls, head into the dunes for a luxury camp experience. Dine by firelight under a sky full of stars, with live drumming and desert serenity. Overnight in a desert tent.
Day 7: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
Depart the Sahara and head toward the dramatic Todra Gorges, where 300-meter cliffs rise beside a cool stream. Enjoy a gentle hike or sit and watch climbers scale the red rock walls.
Continue to the winding Dades Valley, known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” Stop to admire the bizarre rock formations called “Monkey Fingers.”
Dinner and overnight at a guesthouse overlooking the valley.
Day 8: Dades Valley – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech
After breakfast, travel along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs. Visit Ouarzazate, where you may tour Atlas Studios, then head to the crown jewel: Ait Ben Haddou. This fortified ksar, made of sun-dried clay, has been a backdrop for countless films and is a UNESCO treasure.
Cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, a breathtaking drive through the High Atlas Mountains, with panoramic views and colorful Berber villages.
By evening, arrive in Marrakech, where you’ll stay in a traditional riad near the medina. Enjoy dinner and a walk through the buzzing streets. Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 9: Exploring Marrakech
Explore the “Red City” with a local guide. Start at the Majorelle Garden, a botanical oasis of blue and green once owned by Yves Saint Laurent. Visit the Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and the Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech’s spiritual heart.
Stroll through the labyrinthine souks filled with carpets, spices, leather goods, and lanterns. By evening, head to Jemaa el-Fna Square, where musicians, snake charmers, food vendors, and storytellers create a dazzling spectacle.
Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 10: Marrakech – Essaouira – Marrakech
Take a day trip to the laid-back Atlantic port of Essaouira. En route, see goats climbing argan trees and stop by a women’s argan oil cooperative.
In Essaouira, explore the Portuguese fortifications, stroll through the UNESCO-listed medina, and enjoy fresh seafood at the port.
Return to Marrakech in the evening. Overnight stay.
Day 11: Marrakech – Casablanca Airport
Enjoy your final Moroccan breakfast before transferring to Casablanca Airport for your departure. Take with you the colors, flavors, and stories of Morocco—a journey rich in culture, nature, and unforgettable experiences.
Tour Highlights
Casablanca – Hassan II Mosque, Jewish Museum, Corniche
Rabat – Kasbah of the Oudayas, Mausoleum, Chellah
Chefchaouen – Blue medina, Rif Mountains
Volubilis & Meknes – Roman ruins, imperial monuments
Fez – Ancient medina, madrasas, tanneries, Jewish Quarter
Merzouga Desert – Camel trek, nomad lunch, starry camp night
Todra Gorges & Dades Valley – Scenic canyon walk, rock formations
Aït Benhaddou – UNESCO kasbah and film set
Marrakech – Gardens, palaces, souks, Djemaa El Fna
Essaouira – Coastal charm, seafood, artisans
Atlas Mountains – Panoramic drives via Tizi n’Tichka Pass
What’s Included
Accommodation with breakfast in Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fez, and Marrakech
Half-board accommodation in Merzouga (hotel and camp) and Dades Valley
Private transportation in Toyota Prado or similar 4×4 with fuel
Camel ride in the desert
Airport/riad transfers
Local guides in Fez and Marrakech
Multilingual driver-guide throughout
Not Included
Monument entrance fees
Dinners in Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fez, and Marrakech
Lunches
Drinks
International airfare
Tips and personal expenses