11 Days Morocco Discovery Tour from Casablanca
Overview:
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day Morocco discovery tour, starting from the bustling city of Casablanca. This journey takes you through Morocco’s imperial cities, the breathtaking Sahara Desert, and the scenic Atlas Mountains, offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and history.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Rabat
Welcome to Morocco
Upon arrival at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, meet your driver/guide and begin your Moroccan adventure.
Casablanca Morocco Highlights
- Visit the Hassan II Mosque, a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture.
- Stroll along the Corniche, enjoying ocean views.
Later, drive to Rabat, Morocco’s capital city, for your overnight stay.
Rabat Highlights
- Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas.
- Visit the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.
Day 2: Rabat to Chefchaouen
Journey to the Blue City
After breakfast, head north to Chefchaouen, the enchanting blue-washed town in the Rif Mountains.
Chefchaouen Highlights
- Wander through the medina’s picturesque blue streets.
- Visit the Outa el Hammam Square and relax with a cup of mint tea.
- Hike to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views of the city at sunset.
Overnight in Chefchaouen.
Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fes via Volubilis and Meknes
Discover Ancient Ruins and Imperial Cities
Leave Chefchaouen and visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved mosaics.
Continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities.
Meknes Highlights
- Bab Mansour Gate: The grand entrance to the medina.
- Royal Stables and Granaries: Historical landmarks showcasing the city’s rich past.
Arrive in Fes in the evening and spend the night in a traditional riad.
Day 4: Full-Day Guided Tour of Fes
Explore Morocco’s Spiritual Capital
Spend the day discovering Fes, a city renowned for its ancient medina and cultural heritage.
Fes Highlights
- Fes el-Bali Medina: A maze of narrow streets, vibrant souks, and historical landmarks.
- Al-Qarawiyyin University: The world’s oldest university.
- Chouara Tannery: See the traditional leather dyeing process.
- Bou Inania Madrasa: A stunning example of Islamic architecture.
Overnight in Fes.
Day 5: Fes to Merzouga via Ifrane, Azrou, and Ziz Valley
From the Mountains to the Desert
Begin your journey to the Sahara Desert, passing through:
- Ifrane: Known as “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture.
- Azrou: Famous for its cedar forests and wild Barbary macaques.
Travel through the Ziz Valley, a lush region of palm groves, before arriving in Merzouga.
Desert Experience
- Enjoy a camel trek through the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi during sunset.
- Spend the night in a luxury desert camp with a traditional Berber dinner under the stars.
Day 6: Merzouga to Dades Valley via Rissani and Todra Gorge
Explore Stunning Desert and Mountain Landscapes
Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, visit Rissani, a historic trading town known for its traditional souks.
Continue to Todra Gorge, a breathtaking canyon with towering cliffs, before reaching the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic rock formations.
Overnight in a local hotel or riad in the Dades Valley.
Day 7: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate via Skoura and Ait Ben Haddou
Discover Iconic Kasbahs
Travel along the Road of 1,000 Kasbahs, stopping at:
- Skoura Oasis: Known for its picturesque palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
- Ait Ben Haddou: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a famous filming location for movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Arrive in Ouarzazate, Morocco’s “Hollywood of Africa,” for your overnight stay.
Day 8: Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Tizi n’Tichka Pass
Cross the High Atlas Mountains
Drive through the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, offering stunning views of the High Atlas Mountains. Arrive in Marrakech, the vibrant “Red City,” and enjoy some free time to explore its lively atmosphere.
Overnight in a riad in Marrakech.
Day 9: Full-Day Guided Tour of Marrakech
Dive Into Marrakech’s Rich Heritage
Explore Marrakech with a local guide, visiting:
- Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: A bustling hub of food stalls, entertainers, and artisans.
- Koutoubia Mosque: The largest mosque in Marrakech.
- Bahia Palace: A beautiful example of Moroccan craftsmanship.
- Majorelle Garden: A serene botanical garden designed by Jacques Majorelle.
Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 10: Day Trip to Essaouira
Discover the Coastal Charm of Essaouira
Take a day trip to Essaouira, a charming seaside town known for its relaxed atmosphere and artistic vibe.
Essaouira Highlights
- Stroll through the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Visit the Skala de la Kasbah for ocean views.
- Enjoy fresh seafood at the harbor.
Return to Marrakech for your overnight stay.
Day 11: Departure from Marrakech or Casablanca
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some free time in Marrakech before transferring to Marrakech or Casablanca airport for your departure. This concludes your 11-day Morocco discovery tour.
Tour Highlights
- Explore four imperial cities: Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech.
- Experience the beauty of the Chefchaouen medina and the blue-washed streets.
- Discover the ancient ruins of Volubilis.
- Camel trek and camp under the stars in the Sahara Desert.
- Visit iconic landmarks like Ait Ben Haddou and the Todra Gorge.
- Enjoy a relaxing day trip to the coastal town of Essaouira.
What’s Included
- Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide.
- Accommodations in hotels, riads, and a luxury desert camp.
- Daily breakfasts and dinners.
- Camel trek in the Sahara Desert.
- Guided tours in Fes and Marrakech.
This 11-day Morocco discovery tour from Casablanca is designed to immerse you in Morocco’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and timeless traditions. Prepare for an adventure of a lifetime!