9 Days From Casablanca to Marrakech and Desert

9 Days From Casablanca to Marrakech and Desert
Overview
A 9-day trip from Casablanca to Marrakech and the desert is one of the most fascinating experiences you can have in Morocco. This carefully designed itinerary will take you through the country’s most emblematic cities, exploring both its history and culture as well as its most natural and wild landscapes. From modern Casablanca to the vast dunes of the Sahara, each day of this tour will immerse you further into the Moroccan magic.
Itinerary
Day 1: Casablanca – Rabat
Exploring Casablanca
The journey begins in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and economic hub. While known for its modernity, Casablanca also boasts a rich history. Start by visiting the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t miss Mohammed V Square, the city’s central square, surrounded by colonial-era French buildings.
Rabat: The Political Capital
From Casablanca, we head to Rabat, the political capital of Morocco. In Rabat, explore historical landmarks like the Kasbah of the Oudayas, an ancient fortress overlooking the Bou Regreg River. Visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, where the remains of King Mohammed V and his son Hassan II, two pivotal figures in modern Moroccan history, are laid to rest. The Hassan Tower, with its incomplete minaret, is another key site to see.
Day 2: Rabat – Meknes – Volubilis
Meknes: An Imperial City
On the second day, we head to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities. Meknes is known for its impressive walls, monumental gates, and beautiful gardens. Visit the Bab Mansour Gate, considered one of the most beautiful in Morocco, and the Royal Palace, where you can see the city’s history reflected in its architecture.
Volubilis: The Roman Legacy
From Meknes, we travel to Volubilis, an ancient Roman city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Volubilis, you can walk through its columns and temples, admiring the impressive mosaics that decorate the floors of ancient houses. This is a fascinating place to learn about Morocco’s Roman history.
Day 3: Volubilis – Ifrane – Fez
Ifrane: The Green Heart of Morocco
On our way to Fez, we stop in Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its Alpine-style architecture and cool, tranquil environment. Famous for its lakes, parks, and mountainous climate, Ifrane offers a peaceful retreat, a striking contrast to typical Moroccan cities. Relax in the gardens or take a stroll through the quiet streets.
Arrival in Fez
In the afternoon, we arrive in Fez, one of Morocco’s most fascinating and ancient cities. Fez is known for its medieval medina, a labyrinth of narrow streets and lively squares. Don’t miss the Royal Palace, the Bou Inania Medersa, and the Al-Qarawiyyin University, considered the oldest university in the world. Fez is also famous for its craft workshops, where you can see how the city’s famous leather goods and ceramics are made.
Day 4: Fez – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
Heading to the Sahara Desert
The day begins with a journey to the desert, passing through the stunning Ziz Valley, an area filled with oases and palm groves, offering breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains. Here, you can stop to admire the landscape, take photos, and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Arrival in Merzouga
By the end of the day, we reach Merzouga, a small village located next to the Erg Chebbi dunes in the heart of the Sahara Desert. From here, you will take a camel ride into the desert to reach a nomadic camp. During the ride, you will witness the golden dunes of the Sahara, and once at the camp, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars.
Day 5: Merzouga – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley
Sunrise in the Desert
Start the day early with a sunrise over the desert. The sun rising over the dunes creates a spectacular and unforgettable scene. After breakfast, we head to the Todra Gorge, an impressive canyon with rock walls rising up to 300 meters high. This is a perfect spot for a walk and to explore the natural beauty of the desert.
Exploring the Dades Valley
Our next stop is the Dades Valley, famous for its unique rock formations and lush vegetation. Here, you can walk through the valley, explore traditional villages, and enjoy panoramic views of the landscape.
Day 6: Dades Valley – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate
Ait Benhaddou: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
On the sixth day, we travel to Ait Benhaddou, a ksar (fortified village) known for its traditional architecture and impressive kasbahs. Ait Benhaddou has been the backdrop for numerous films, including Gladiator and The Mummy. This is a must-see destination for history and film enthusiasts.
Ouarzazate: The Gateway to the Desert
From Ait Benhaddou, we head to Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the desert. This city is famous for its film studios and has been the setting for many international films. The Taourirt Kasbah is another major tourist attraction in the city.
Day 7: Ouarzazate – Marrakech
Tizi n’Tichka Pass: Crossing the Mountains
On the seventh day, we make our way to Marrakech via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, a mountain pass that connects the southern and northern parts of the country. The views are stunning, and the journey itself is one of the most exciting experiences of the trip.
Arrival in Marrakech
In the afternoon, we arrive in Marrakech, the “Red City.” Marrakech is famous for its medina, vibrant souks, and Jemaa el-Fna Square, a lively place full of culture and energy. Here, you can enjoy local delicacies, wander through the markets, and explore iconic sites like the Majorelle Gardens and the Koutoubia Mosque.
Day 8: Marrakech – Full Day of Exploration
Dedicate a full day to exploring Marrakech, visiting the Bahia Palace, El Badi Palace, and the Ben Youssef Medersa, a beautiful Islamic school. You can also take a walk through the Menara Gardens or relax in one of the city’s traditional hammams.
Day 9: Marrakech – End of the Tour
On the final day, you’ll have free time to do some last-minute shopping or enjoy a final stroll through the souks before concluding this incredible journey through Morocco.
This 9-day tour from Casablanca to Marrakech and the desert is the perfect way to discover the best of Morocco. From the imperial cities and mountainous landscapes to the golden dunes of the Sahara, each day offers something unique. If you’re looking for an adventure that blends culture, history, nature, and excitement, this journey is the perfect choice.