10 days From Casablanca to desert

Upon arrival at Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, with its stunning mix of traditional Moroccan and modern architecture. The mosque’s intricate zellige (tilework), marble floors, and oceanfront setting make it an awe-inspiring site. Stroll along the Corniche, a coastal promenade dotted with cafés and restaurants. Overnight in Casablanca.

Depart Casablanca and travel to Marrakech, the “Red City,” known for its ochre-colored buildings and vibrant atmosphere. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of Marrakech’s historic landmarks. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech, renowned for its minaret. Explore the Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture built in the 19th century. Wander through the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where snake charmers, storytellers, and food vendors create a lively scene. Overnight in a riad in Marrakech.

After breakfast, drive to the coastal city of Essaouira, passing through argan tree groves where you may spot goats climbing the trees. Visit an argan oil cooperative to learn about this valuable product and its traditional extraction process. In Essaouira, explore the fortified medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the Skala de la Kasbah, with its historic cannons overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Stroll through the harbor, known for its blue fishing boats, and enjoy fresh seafood. Essaouira’s relaxed vibe and artistic community make it a cultural gem. Overnight in Essaouira.

Travel inland toward Ouarzazate, crossing the stunning landscapes of the Atlas Mountains. Pass through Berber villages and marvel at the changing scenery, from the green foothills to arid desert terrain. In Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a well-preserved 19th-century fortress that showcases traditional Berber architecture. If time permits, explore the Atlas Film Studios, where movies like Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator were filmed. Overnight in Ouarzazate.

Begin your journey along the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” a scenic route dotted with fortified villages and oases. Stop at the Skoura Oasis, home to lush palm groves and the historic Amridil Kasbah, a stunning example of traditional mudbrick architecture. Continue to the Valley of Roses, famous for its annual rose festival and rose water production. Arrive at the dramatic Dades Gorges, where you can hike or take a leisurely walk along the gorge to admire its unique rock formations. Overnight in a guesthouse in Dades.

After breakfast, drive to the breathtaking Todra Gorges, where sheer cliffs rise over 300 meters, creating a dramatic canyon. Take a short hike or simply enjoy the scenery. Continue to Erfoud, known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” famous for its fossils and date palm groves. Arrive in Merzouga and prepare for an unforgettable camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, the largest sand dunes in Morocco. Enjoy a magical sunset and spend the night in a traditional Berber desert camp, where you’ll savor local cuisine and music under the starry sky.

Begin your day with a sunrise camel ride over the dunes. Visit a nomadic family to learn about their traditional way of life, including their hospitality and connection to the desert. Stop in the village of Khamlia, where you’ll enjoy a performance of Gnaoua music, a unique genre rooted in sub-Saharan African traditions. Return to Merzouga for a relaxing evening. Overnight in a desert guesthouse or camp.

Depart Merzouga and travel through the Ziz Valley, a lush oasis lined with palm trees and dotted with small kasbahs. Continue through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Azrou to visit the cedar forests, home to playful Barbary macaques. Stop in Ifrane, a charming mountain town often called “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture. Arrive in Fes, one of Morocco’s most historic and culturally rich cities. Overnight in a riad in Fes.

Spend the day exploring Fes with a local guide. Visit the Fes el-Bali medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with winding alleys, historic mosques, and vibrant souks. Discover the Al-Qarawiyyin University, the world’s oldest continuously operating university, and admire the intricate tilework of the Bou Inania Madrasa. Explore the famous Chouara Tannery, where leather goods are dyed using traditional techniques. Learn about Fes’ legacy as a center of learning and craftsmanship. Overnight in Fes.

Depart Fes for Casablanca, we visit to Volubilis, an ancient Roman city renowned for its mosaics and grand ruins. Stop in Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, to visit Bab Mansour, the Royal Granaries, and Moulay Ismail’s Mausoleum. In Rabat, visit the Hassan Tower, Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and Kasbah of the Udayas. End your journey with a transfer to Casablanca Airport for departure.