10 Days Morocco Tour from Casablanca: The Imperial & Sahara Grand Tour
This is the ultimate Moroccan adventure. This comprehensive 10-day journey from Casablanca takes you through the vibrant Imperial Cities, the mesmerizing blue streets of Chefchaouen, the towering High Atlas Mountains, and deep into the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert.
The complete Moroccan experience
Our 10-day tour from Casablanca is the definitive way to see the country’s most iconic landscapes and cultural landmarks. While we specialize in unforgettable desert experiences, this itinerary is beautifully balanced to ensure you also discover Morocco’s rich history, from Roman ruins to bustling medieval medinas.
Why this tour is unique
This route covers the entire Moroccan circuit without feeling rushed. You will have dedicated time to wander the blue alleys of Chefchaouen, navigate the 9,000 streets of the Fes medina, and experience our signature deep-desert immersion in the Erg Chebbi dunes, before traversing the Kasbah trails to the Red City of Marrakech.
What this trip is built around
- Hassan II Mosque: Visit one of the largest and most intricate mosques in the world.
- The Blue Pearl: Get lost in the picturesque, blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen.
- Imperial Cities: Explore the historic capitals of Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech.
- Volubilis Ruins: Step back in time at the beautifully preserved ancient Roman ruins.
- Sahara Camel Trek: Ride across the golden dunes of Merzouga at sunset.
- High Atlas & Kasbahs: Traverse dramatic mountain passes and visit the cinematic Ait Benhaddou.
The Grand Loop
You will arrive in Casablanca and head north along the coast to Rabat, then up into the Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen. From there, head south to Fes, before crossing the Middle Atlas mountains through the Ziz Valley region, passing near our desert base of Errachidia, and into the Sahara. The second half of your journey brings you west through the towering Todra Gorges and Dades Valley to Marrakech, before finally returning to the coast.
Day by day
Casablanca Arrival → Rabat
Welcome to Morocco! Upon arrival at Mohammed V Airport (CMN), your driver will meet you. We start with a visit to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, sitting right on the Atlantic Ocean. After taking in the coastal views, we take a short drive to the capital city, Rabat, to explore the Oudayas Kasbah and the Hassan Tower.
Rabat → Rif Mountains → Chefchaouen
After breakfast, we leave the coast behind and drive north into the dramatic Rif Mountains. By early afternoon, you will arrive in Chefchaouen, the famous “Blue Pearl” of Morocco. Spend the rest of the day freely wandering the incredibly photogenic, blue-washed alleys of the Medina and enjoying mint tea in the main square.
Chefchaouen → Volubilis → Meknes → Fes
Today we journey back in time. We leave the blue city and drive to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunningly preserved mosaics. After exploring the ruins, we make a brief stop in the imperial city of Meknes to see the grand Bab Mansour gate before continuing to Fes for the evening.
Exploring the Medieval City of Fes
Step into a time machine as you explore Fes el-Bali, the oldest and largest medieval medina in the world. With a local guide, you will navigate the labyrinth of over 9,000 alleyways, visiting the famous Chouara Tanneries, the Al Quaraouiyine University (the oldest in the world), and vibrant artisan souks.
Fes → Ifrane → Ziz Valley → Merzouga Desert
Today features a dramatic shift in landscape. We cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in the alpine town of Ifrane (the “Switzerland of Morocco”) and the cedar forests of Azrou to spot wild macaque monkeys. We descend through the lush palm groves of the Ziz Valley, passing through the Errachidia region, until we reach the edge of the Sahara. Trade your vehicle for a camel and ride into the sunset to your desert camp.
Merzouga → Todra Gorge → Dades Valley
Wake up early for a spectacular Sahara sunrise. After breakfast in the camp, you will meet your driver and head toward the spectacular Todra Gorges. You’ll have time to walk beneath the 300-meter-high limestone canyon walls before continuing our drive through the scenic “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs” to reach the Dades Valley for the night.
Dades Valley → Ait Benhaddou → Marrakech
We drive through the Valley of Roses and Ouarzazate (the Hollywood of Africa) to reach the spectacular Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO site famous for its appearances in Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After exploring the clay fortress, we ascend the High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka pass, arriving in vibrant Marrakech by late afternoon.
Exploring the Red City of Marrakech
Dedicate today to discovering the magic of Marrakech. A local guide will take you through the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the iconic Koutoubia Mosque. In the afternoon, get lost in the colorful souks and experience the legendary energy of Jemaa el-Fna square as it comes alive with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls.
Marrakech → Casablanca
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Marrakech. You can visit the stunning Majorelle Gardens (formerly owned by Yves Saint Laurent) or enjoy a traditional Moroccan Hammam spa experience. In the afternoon, we take the highway back to Casablanca, where you can enjoy a final farewell dinner by the coast.
Casablanca Airport Transfer
Depending on your flight time, enjoy a final Moroccan breakfast before your driver transfers you directly to Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) for your departure, concluding your unforgettable 10-day adventure.
Accommodation & Pricing Options
We offer three tier levels to suit your travel style. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy.
- Standard authentic Riads in medinas
- Standard desert camp with shared facilities
- Private transport
- Boutique Riads with pools and courtyards
- Upgraded luxury desert camp with private en-suite
- Excellent locations for evening walks
- 5-star heritage Riads & luxury hotels
- Premium VIP desert camp
- Upgraded luxury 4×4 vehicle or premium minivan
Prices are based on 2 travelers and may vary depending on travel dates and final accommodation choice.
Where you’ll sleep each night
| Night | Location | Accommodation Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rabat | Riad, en-suite room |
| 2 | Chefchaouen | Riad, en-suite room |
| 3 | Fes | Riad in the Medina, en-suite room |
| 4 | Fes | Riad in the Medina, en-suite room |
| 5 | Merzouga, Erg Chebbi | Desert camp, shared bathroom facilities |
| 6 | Dades Valley | Guesthouse, valley-view room |
| 7 | Marrakech | Riad in the Medina, en-suite room |
| 8 | Marrakech | Riad in the Medina, en-suite room |
| 9 | Casablanca | City hotel, en-suite room |
What’s covered
Included
- Private, air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan
- English-speaking driver/guide for the entire 10 days
- 9 nights accommodation (as per selected package)
- Meals as listed in the itinerary (9 breakfasts, 4 dinners)
- Sunset and sunrise camel treks in Erg Chebbi
- Official local city guides in Fes, Volubilis, and Marrakech
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Casablanca
Excluded
- International flights to/from Casablanca
- Lunches and daytime drinks
- Travel insurance
- Entrance fees to monuments/museums (unless specified)
- Tips and gratuities
Common questions
Why start and end in Casablanca?
Casablanca (CMN) is Morocco’s primary international airport, offering the most direct and affordable flights from North America and Europe. This loop itinerary is designed specifically for travelers flying into and out of this hub.
Is there a lot of walking involved?
Yes. The guided tours in Fes and Marrakech, as well as the steep, cobbled streets of Chefchaouen and the ruins of Volubilis, require a moderate amount of walking. Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are essential.
Can this itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. All of our private tours can be tailored. If you want to spend an extra night in the desert, skip a city, or end the tour in Marrakech instead of Casablanca, simply let us know during the booking process.
Practical details
What to pack
Because this tour covers coastal cities, mountains, and the desert, layers are your best friend. Bring light, breathable clothing for the day, a warm jacket for the mountain and desert nights, and modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) for exploring the medinas and mosques.
Currency & payments
The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are widely available in Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech. You should carry cash for the days you are traveling through the mountains and the desert, as rural stops will not accept credit cards.
Tipping
Tipping is highly customary. You will want to have small bills available for hotel porters, local city guides, and restaurant servers (typically 10%). A lump-sum tip for your main driver at the end of the 10 days is standard if you enjoyed their service.
Ready to book this route?
We usually reply within 24 hours.
Ask us about this tour
Choose your dates and comfort tier, or ask us to build a private departure around your group.