This 8-day tour is a comprehensive journey through Morocco’s heartland, perfectly blending culture, history, and dramatic landscapes. Starting from Casablanca, you’ll explore the imperial capitals of Rabat and Fes before venturing across the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert. After a night in a Berber camp, the route winds through stunning gorges and valleys, past ancient kasbahs, and over the High Atlas to conclude in the vibrant energy of Marrakech. It’s a fast-paced and rewarding itinerary that captures the essential spirit of Morocco.
Your journey begins with a collection from Casablanca. If time allows, you’ll catch a glimpse of the magnificent Hassan II Mosque before we drive north to the dignified capital, Rabat. Here, we explore its most symbolic landmarks: the historic Hassan Tower and the majestic Mausoleum of Mohammed V. We then continue to the imperial city of Meknes for a brief introduction before concluding the day in Fes, where you will settle into your traditional Riad for the evening.
Today is dedicated to unlocking the secrets of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO-listed medieval medina and the world’s largest living medieval city. An expert local guide will lead you through its labyrinthine alleys, past the grand gates of the Royal Palace and through the historic Mellah (Jewish Quarter). You’ll admire the intricate architecture of ancient theological schools (Medersas), witness the iconic Chouara Tannery from a strategic terrace, and immerse yourself in the vibrant, sensory overload of the traditional souks.
We leave the urban energy behind and journey southeast towards the Sahara. Our route climbs into the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through the unique alpine-style town of Ifrane. A highlight is a stop in the Cedar Forest near Azrou, where you can observe troops of wild Barbary macaques. The landscape transforms as we descend through the fertile plains around Midelt and into the breathtaking Ziz Valley—a vast oasis of palm groves. The day culminates as we arrive at the edge of the golden Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga.
This day is devoted to the magic of the Sahara. Aboard a 4×4, you’ll explore the desert’s captivating landscapes, visiting a seasonal lake and the village of Khamlia for a performance of hypnotic Gnawa music. A special privilege is sharing tea with a nomadic Berber family to learn about their enduring way of life. In the late afternoon, you embark on a timeless camel caravan into the heart of the dunes. The day concludes with a breathtaking sunset and a night in a desert camp under a blanket of stars, enjoying traditional food and music.
Awake early for a unforgettable sunrise over the Sahara. After breakfast at the camp, you return to Merzouga. Our journey then pushes west, with a potential stop at the bustling traditional souk in Rissani (on market days). We continue through the fossil town of Erfoud to the spectacular Todra Gorge, where you can walk between its towering 300-meter-high canyon walls. The day ends in the dramatic rock formations of the beautiful Dades Valley.
After breakfast, we wind our way along the legendary “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs.” We explore the serene Skoura Oasis and continue to Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa.” The main event is a visit to the iconic Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and famed film location. After exploring this ancient fortified village, we begin the spectacular ascent across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi N’Tichka pass, arriving by evening in the vibrant “Red City” of Marrakech.
A knowledgeable local guide will help you navigate the wonders of Marrakech today. The tour includes the elegant Koutoubia Mosque, the ornate Bahia Palace, and the mysterious Saadian Tombs. You will then plunge into the city’s legendary souks, a kaleidoscope of colors, crafts, and culture. The tour culminates in the pulsating Djemaa el-Fna square, a mesmerizing theatre of street life. An optional visit to the peaceful Majorelle Gardens may also be included.
Your Moroccan adventure concludes today. After breakfast at your accommodation, you will be escorted to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure flight, filled with memories of imperial cities, mountain passes, and desert sunsets.
Every traveler is unique. If this itinerary doesn’t perfectly fit your interests, schedule, or travel style, please contact Best Moroccan Tour. We specialize in crafting bespoke journeys. Let us know your dreams, and we will design a personalized tour just for you.
