11-Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca
Duration
11 days
Tour Type
Overview
Experience an unforgettable 11-day Moroccan adventure starting from the vibrant city of Casablanca. This private tour, guided by an English-speaking driver, promises an immersive journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating cities. Highlights include visits to Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, Volubilis, Meknes, Fes, Ifrane, the Sahara Desert, Todra and Dades Gorges, Ouarzazate, Essaouira, and Marrakech.
Highlights :
- Discover the economic hub of Morocco and visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque.
- Explore the historical landmarks including the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.
- Wander through the picturesque blue-painted streets of the “Blue Pearl” nestled in the Rif Mountains.
- Visit the well-preserved Roman ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning mosaics and ancient architecture.
- Explore the Ismaili capital, featuring the impressive Bab Al-Mansour gate and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.
- Immerse yourself in the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, with a guided tour of its medieval Medina, the oldest university in the world, and traditional tanneries.
- Experience the “Switzerland of Morocco” with its alpine-style architecture and cool climate.
- Embark on a camel trek into the Sahara Desert, witness a breathtaking sunset, and spend a night in a luxury desert camp.
- Admire the dramatic cliffs and enjoy the unique landscape perfect for rock climbing and hiking.
- Marvel at the stunning rock formations and enjoy panoramic views of the valley.
- Visit the “Hollywood of Morocco” and explore the famous film studios and the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah.
- Stroll through the charming coastal city, known for its historic medina, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful beaches.
- Discover the vibrant Red City with its bustling souks, majestic palaces, and the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
- Drive through the scenic mountain range, experiencing breathtaking views and traditional Berber villages.
Included/Exclude
- Private English-speaking driver
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation in hotels and Riads
- Breakfast and dinner daily
- Camel trek in the Sahara Desert
- Luxury desert camp experience
- Guided tours in Fes and Marrakech
- Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- International airfare to and from Morocco
- Travel insurance
- Lunches and beverages
- Personal expenses and tips
- Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
- Entry fees to attractions not specified in the included section
- Local city taxes, if applicable
- Any additional costs
Tour Plan
Your Moroccan journey begins with your arrival in Casablanca, the economic powerhouse and largest city in Morocco. Upon arrival at the airport or your accommodation, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Begin your exploration with a visit to the impressive Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco, situated on the Atlantic coast. This architectural marvel boasts the world's tallest minaret and offers breathtaking views of the ocean. Stroll along the Cornish, a bustling waterfront promenade lined with cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visit Rick's Cafe, inspired by the classic film "Casablanca," and explore Mohamed V Square, also known as Pigeons Square, with its striking Art Deco buildings. Overnight stay in a hotel.
Depart Casablanca and travel north along the scenic Atlantic coast to Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. Rabat, one of Morocco's four imperial cities, seamlessly blends ancient history with modern development. Explore the historical Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret that has stood since the 12th century, and visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the final resting place of the Moroccan king and his two sons. Wander through the picturesque Kasbah of Oudaya, a tranquil retreat with narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and stunning views of the Bou Regreg River. After lunch, continue your journey through the verdant Rif Mountains, making your way to Chefchaouen. Known as the Blue Pearl, Chefchaouen is famous for its charming blue and white-painted streets, offering a serene and picturesque atmosphere. Overnight stay in a charming Riad.
Spend the morning wandering the enchanting alleyways of Chefchaouen, where every corner reveals a new shade of blue. This town, set against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains, offers a unique and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for photography and leisurely exploration. Later, drive to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you'll find beautifully preserved mosaics, grand archways, and towering columns that transport you back to the Roman era. Continue to Meknes, another imperial city, and explore its historic sites including Bab Al-Mansour, one of Morocco's most impressive gates, Sahrij Souani basin, the Royal Stables, and the granary. Visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the city's founder, before heading to Fes. Overnight stay in a traditional Riad.
Delve into the rich history and culture of Fes with a comprehensive guided tour. Begin at the majestic Royal Palace gate, then drive through the Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter, which offers a glimpse into the diverse cultural heritage of the city. Ascend to an ancient fortress for panoramic views of the sprawling Medina and the city of Fes. Enter the medieval Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, through Bab Boujloud (the Blue Gate). Wander through the labyrinthine alleyways with your guide, visiting key sites such as the Medrasa Bouanania, the Najjarine Fountain, the bustling Tanneries, and the ancient Quaraouin Mosque and University, the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Enjoy a free afternoon to further explore the Medina or relax in your Riad.
Embark on a journey south through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through the charming town of Imouzzer before reaching Ifrane. Often referred to as the "Switzerland of Morocco," Ifrane is known for its European-style architecture, lush parks, and cool climate. Continue to the cedar forests, home to the Barbary macaques, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk and interact with these friendly primates. Proceed to Midelt, a town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, where you'll stop for lunch. Drive through the stunning Ziz Valley, known for its dramatic gorges and lush palm groves, before arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. In Merzouga, embark on a camel trek across the golden dunes, making your way to a luxury desert camp. Enjoy a traditional Berber dinner, music around the campfire, and a night under the stars. Overnight in the desert camp.
Rise early to witness the magical sunrise over the Sahara dunes, an unforgettable experience. After breakfast, return to Merzouga by camel and visit Rissani, a historic town known as the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty. Explore its lively market, especially bustling on market days (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays), and gain insight into local life. Continue to Erfoud, famous for its fossil workshops, where you can see how ancient marine fossils are transformed into beautiful pieces of art. Drive through the lush palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad before reaching the dramatic Todra Gorges. These towering canyon walls, carved by the Todra River, are a paradise for rock climbers and nature enthusiasts. Enjoy lunch in this stunning setting before heading to the picturesque Dades Valley, renowned for its unique rock formations and scenic beauty. Overnight stay in a hotel.
Begin your day with a drive through the Dades Valley, stopping to admire the famous "monkey fingers" rock formations and taking in panoramic views of the valley. Continue to the Rose Valley, known for its fragrant rose fields and the annual Rose Festival held in May. Visit the palm groves of Skoura, home to many ancient kasbahs, before arriving in Ouarzazate, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Desert." Here, you'll visit the Atlas Film Studios, where many famous movies were filmed, including "Gladiator" and "Lawrence of Arabia." Proceed to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, a stunning fortified village and a popular filming location for movies and TV series like "Game of Thrones." Enjoy a guided tour of this ancient ksar, exploring its narrow streets and admiring the traditional mud-brick architecture. Overnight stay in a nearby hotel.
Depart Ait Ben Haddou and journey through the High Atlas Mountains, traversing the scenic Tizi-n-Tichka pass, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Descend towards the Atlantic coast, arriving in the charming coastal city of Essaouira. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, Essaouira boasts a beautiful medina, a historic port, and vibrant arts and crafts scene. Explore the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and bustling souks. Visit the historic Skala de la Ville, the city's ramparts offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, and stroll along the picturesque fishing port. Enjoy the evening at leisure, perhaps savoring fresh seafood at a local restaurant. Overnight stay in a Riad.
Spend the morning at your leisure, soaking in the relaxed vibe of Essaouira. You may wish to visit the local art galleries, enjoy a coffee at a seaside café, or simply wander through the medina. In the afternoon, depart for Marrakech, the vibrant Red City. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your accommodation, where you can relax and prepare for the next day's exploration. Overnight stay in a Riad.
Discover the enchanting city of Marrakech with a guided tour. Begin at the magnificent Bahia Palace, a 19th-century palace with beautiful gardens and stunning architecture. Visit the Saadian Tombs, the final resting place of members of the Saadian dynasty, and marvel at the intricate carvings and decorations. Explore the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a historic Quranic school known for its exquisite Moroccan architecture. Stroll through the bustling souks, where you can shop for traditional crafts, spices, and textiles. Enjoy lunch near the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the heart of Marrakech, where you can watch street performers, musicians, and storytellers. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech, and relax in the serene Majorelle Garden, a botanical garden designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle. Overnight stay in a Riad.
On the final day of your tour, enjoy some free time in Marrakech to explore at your own pace. You may wish to revisit the souks, relax in a traditional hammam, or explore more of the city's hidden gems. In the afternoon, drive back to Casablanca, where you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight. Alternatively, you can choose to end your tour in Marrakech if preferred.
