Day 1: Casablanca – Rabat

Casablanca to Marrakech Desert 8 days itinerary: Your journey begins with a visit to the iconic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most stunning mosques in the world. After exploring Casablanca, travel to Rabat, Morocco’s capital. In Rabat, visit the Royal Palace, Hassan Tower, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Stroll through the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas before enjoying dinner and an overnight stay in Rabat.

Day 2: Rabat – Meknes – Volubilis – Fes

After breakfast, head to Meknes, an imperial city known for its grand architecture and history. Visit the Bab Mansour Gate, Heri es-Souani granaries, and the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum.

Continue to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with well-preserved mosaics and ancient structures. After exploring Volubilis, drive to Fes, where you’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night in a traditional riad.

Day 3: Fes Guided Tour

Spend the day discovering the cultural and historical treasures of Fes, Morocco’s spiritual capital. Explore the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow streets, bustling souks, and historic landmarks. Visit the Al Quaraouiyine University, Bou Inania Madrasa, Chouara Tannery, and Al-Attarine Madrasa. End the day with dinner and an overnight stay in your riad.

Day 4: Fes – Ifrane – Cedar Forest – Midelt – Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)

Depart Fes and travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco.” Visit the Cedar Forest near Azrou to see Barbary macaque monkeys, then continue to Midelt for lunch.

Drive through the breathtaking Ziz Valley, with its lush palm groves and dramatic gorges, before arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. After dinner, relax in a desert riad or hotel.

Day 5: Merzouga – Camel Trek – Desert Camp

Spend the day exploring the Merzouga region. Visit the village of Khamlia, known for its traditional Gnawa music, and stop by a Berber nomad camp to learn about their way of life. Optional activities like sandboarding or quad biking are available.

In the late afternoon, embark on a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, watching the sunset over the golden sands. Arrive at your desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, Berber music, and stargazing under the desert sky. Overnight in a standard or luxury desert camp.

Day 6: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley

Wake up early to witness a stunning sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast. Return to Merzouga on camels or by 4×4, then visit Rissani, a historic town and former trading hub.

Continue to the spectacular Todra Gorge, where you can walk along the towering cliffs and admire the dramatic scenery. Drive through Berber villages to the Dades Valley, known for its “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a guesthouse or hotel.

Day 7: Dades Valley – Valley of Roses – Ouarzazate – Aït Benhaddou – Marrakech

After breakfast, drive through the scenic Dades Valley and the fragrant Valley of Roses, famous for its rosewater products. Stop in Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Morocco,” where you can visit the Taourirt Kasbah or the Atlas Film Studios.

Next, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aït Benhaddou, a fortified village and iconic filming location. After lunch, cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, arriving in Marrakech in the evening. Overnight in a riad.

Day 8: Marrakech Guided Tour

Spend your final day exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech with a local guide. Visit landmarks like the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and the Majorelle Garden. Wander through the bustling souks of the Medina, and soak in the lively atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square with its performers, food stalls, and artisans. After the tour, our 8 days Casablanca to Marrakech itinerary concludes.