11 Days Desert Tour from Casablanca
Overview:
Discover the Wonders of Morocco
Embark on an 11-day desert tour from Casablanca to experience Morocco’s most captivating landscapes, historic cities, and cultural treasures. This extended journey takes you from the bustling streets of Casablanca to the majestic golden dunes of the Sahara Desert, passing through ancient medinas, the Atlas Mountains, and scenic valleys. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a combination of cultural exploration, desert adventure, and breathtaking scenery.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Start Your Moroccan Adventure
Arrive in Casablanca, Morocco’s economic hub, where you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, explore the city’s highlights:
Hassan II Mosque – Marvel at one of the largest mosques in the world with its intricate architecture.
Corniche of Ain Diab – Enjoy a walk along the scenic seaside promenade.
Casablanca Old Medina – Experience the vibrant atmosphere of traditional Moroccan markets.
End the day with a traditional Moroccan dinner, preparing for the journey ahead.
Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat – Explore the Capital City
Depart Casablanca in the morning and drive to Rabat, the political capital of Morocco. Key sites to visit:
Kasbah of the Udayas – A historic fortress offering panoramic views of the Atlantic.
Hassan Tower – Iconic minaret symbolizing Morocco’s architectural heritage.
Royal Palace and Medina – Explore the heart of Morocco’s history.
Overnight in Rabat, enjoying local hospitality and Moroccan cuisine.
Day 3: Rabat to Fes – Cultural and Spiritual Immersion
Continue your journey to Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital. Along the way, enjoy scenic landscapes and traditional towns. In Fes, explore:
Fes El Bali (Old Medina) – UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow alleys, souks, and historic monuments.
Al Quaraouiyine University – One of the oldest universities in the world.
Traditional Tanneries – Witness centuries-old leather-making techniques.
Overnight in Fes in a comfortable riad.
Day 4: Fes to Midelt – Through the Middle Atlas Mountains
Leave Fes and head toward Midelt, passing the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains:
Ifrane – Known as “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture.
Azrou – Famous for its cedar forests and Barbary apes.
Ziz Valley – Lush palm groves and traditional villages.
Overnight in Midelt, resting amid serene landscapes.
Day 5: Midelt to Merzouga – Enter the Sahara Desert
Travel through the scenic Ziz Valley and arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Highlights:
Camel Trekking into the Dunes – Experience the magical sunset over the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Luxury Desert Camp Stay – Enjoy Berber hospitality, traditional music, and dinner under the stars.
Day 6: Full Day in the Sahara Desert
Spend a full day exploring the desert:
Sunrise Camel Ride – Witness the desert awakening with golden light.
Sandboarding – Glide down towering dunes for excitement.
4×4 Desert Excursion – Discover remote areas and Berber villages.
Photography – Capture the unique desert landscapes.
Return to your camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 7: Merzouga to Todra Gorge – Majestic Mountain Views
Depart Merzouga and travel to Todra Gorge, passing scenic valleys:
Todra Gorge – Spectacular cliffs and winding rivers perfect for exploration.
Berber Villages – Learn about traditional life in the region.
Overnight Stay in Todra – Stay in a charming guesthouse amidst dramatic mountains.
Day 8: Todra Gorge to Dades Valley and Skoura
Journey through the Dades Valley:
Dades Gorge – Famous for unique rock formations like “Monkey Fingers.”
Oasis of Skoura – Explore palm groves and historic kasbahs, including Kasbah Amridil.
Photography Stops – Capture Morocco’s most scenic landscapes.
Overnight in Skoura with traditional Moroccan cuisine.
Day 9: Skoura to Marrakech – Crossing the High Atlas Mountains
Drive through the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass to reach Marrakech:
Koutoubia Mosque – Iconic landmark in Marrakech.
Jemaa el-Fnaa Square – Experience vibrant street life and local delicacies.
Majorelle Garden & Yves Saint Laurent Museum – Stunning gardens with vibrant colors.
Overnight in Marrakech, preparing for a full day of city exploration.
Day 10: Full Day in Marrakech – Culture, Souks, and Palaces
Explore Marrakech in depth:
Bahia Palace – Magnificent 19th-century palace with intricate designs.
Saadian Tombs – Historical site with beautiful mosaics.
Medina and Souks – Shop for spices, rugs, pottery, and traditional crafts.
Optional Hammam Experience – Relax in a traditional Moroccan bathhouse.
Overnight in Marrakech, enjoying Moroccan cuisine and vibrant nightlife.
Day 11: Marrakech to Casablanca – Farewell Morocco
Depart Marrakech and return to Casablanca:
Scenic Drive – Enjoy the changing landscapes along the way.
Optional Stops – Visit Moroccan Museum of Modern Art or Habous Quarter for last-minute shopping.
Departure – Transfer to the airport for your onward journey, concluding your 11-day desert tour from Casablanca.
Why Choose This 11-Day Desert Tour?
This tour offers an immersive Moroccan experience, combining:
Cultural Heritage – Explore ancient medinas, kasbahs, and traditional Berber villages.
Desert Adventure – Camel trekking, sandboarding, and 4×4 excursions.
Scenic Landscapes – Middle Atlas forests, High Atlas Mountains, and Sahara dunes.
Comfortable Stays – Luxury desert camps, traditional riads, and guesthouses.
This extended itinerary ensures travelers experience Morocco’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.