This 6 days desert tour from Casablanca explores Morocco’s imperial cities and takes you into the stunning Sahara Desert. Experience the magic of Merzouga with a memorable overnight stay camping beneath the stars in the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes.
Your 6-day Moroccan adventure begins in Casablanca. Explore the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, an architectural marvel and one of the world’s largest mosques. See the exterior of the Royal Palace before departing for Rabat, Morocco’s capital. In Rabat, visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the iconic Hassan Tower, and the historic Kasbah of the Udayas overlooking the Atlantic. Continue your journey, stopping at the remarkable ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the nearby holy town of Moulay Idriss I. Your final leg takes you via Meknes, another Imperial City, where you’ll see the grand Bab Mansour gate and the Hari Souani granaries before arriving in Fes for your overnight stay at a hotel/riad.
After breakfast, immerse yourself in Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart, with a guided tour. Navigate the labyrinthine streets of Fes el-Bali, the ancient walled medina (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Discover key landmarks including the Mellah (historic Jewish Quarter), Nejjarine Fountain, the exterior of the revered Al Qaraouine University (one of the world’s oldest), the famous Tanneries (from a viewpoint), and the Bou Inania Madrasa. Gain insight into the vibrant artisan culture before returning to your traditional riad for dinner and an overnight stay.
Depart Fes after breakfast, heading south towards the Sahara Desert. Journey through Ifrane, often called “Morocco’s Little Switzerland” due to its alpine architecture. Continue to Azrou and stop in the cedar forests to observe the native Barbary macaques. Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping for lunch in Midelt (at own expense). Afterwards, drive along the scenic Ziz Valley, admiring its vast palm groves, deep gorges, and traditional adobe kasbahs. Upon reaching Merzouga, meet your camels for a trek into the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes. Witness a magical desert sunset, then arrive at your desert camp for a traditional Moroccan dinner, Berber music around the campfire, and an unforgettable night under the starry Saharan sky.
Wake early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the golden dunes – a truly memorable experience. After breakfast at the camp, embark on a 4×4 exploration of the Merzouga desert region. Visit the village of Khamlia, known for its captivating Gnawa music, explore abandoned mines (Mifis), discover desert oases, and have the unique opportunity to visit a local nomadic family and learn about their traditional way of life. Return to a hotel/auberge at the edge of the dunes in Merzouga village for the afternoon, where you can relax, perhaps by a swimming pool. Enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.
After breakfast, depart the Merzouga area (option for a short camel ride back if desired, or transfer directly). Head to Rissani, the ancient Sijilmassa, cradle of the Alaouite dynasty. Explore its bustling traditional souk (especially lively on market days) offering spices, crafts, and local goods. Continue your journey west towards the Todra Gorge, stopping to walk beneath its spectacular, towering canyon walls. Afterwards, travel to the beautiful Dades Valley, famous for its dramatic rock formations (including the “Monkey Fingers”) and numerous kasbahs. Check into your accommodation in the Dades Valley for dinner and an overnight stay.
Begin your final day traveling through the Dades Valley, often called the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” passing through the Rose Valley (Kalaat M’gouna) and the Skoura palm grove. Arrive in Ouarzazate, the “Gateway to the Sahara,” and visit the historic Taourirt Kasbah. Continue to the magnificent Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage site famed as a backdrop for numerous films (Gladiator, Game of Thrones, etc.). Afterwards, embark on the stunning drive across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass (2260m), pausing for panoramic photos. Descend towards Marrakech, arriving in the late afternoon/early evening where your unforgettable 6-day tour concludes with drop-off at your accommodation.
