Desert Route and Imperial Jewels

Duration

6 days

Departure City

Casablanca

Arrival City

Marrakech

Price

Consult Price

Explore this captivating route, a journey filled with mystery and beauty.

Step into an exhilarating 6-day journey from Casablanca to Marrakech and the Sahara Desert. Explore the imperial cities of Morocco and enjoy an unforgettable night under the stars in the heart of the breathtaking Sahara desert of Merzouga, amidst the famous Erg Chebbi dunes.

Encounter unparalleled landscapes featuring vast valleys, dunes, gorges, mountain passes, and towns seamlessly blended into the scenery.

Discover fortresses crowning the hills, engage with locals, and immerse yourself in the richness of the Moroccan experience.

Your adventure awaits!

Route Map

Day 1

From Casablanca to Fez: A journey through Morocco´s imperial history

We begin this thrilling 6-day journey by picking you up from the comfort of your accommodation or directly at the airport in Casablanca, Rabat or Marrakech, depending on your arrival point in Morocco. Prepare your senses for a day full of wonder, with each stop revealing a unique facet of Morocco's rich tapestry.

Casablanca, the modern face of Morocco, will be our first stop. Here, you will have the opportunity to stroll along the charming "Corniche", a promenade that stretches along the vibrant Atlantic coast. The sound of the waves and the seagulls will be the perfect prelude to our next visit: the impressive Hassan II Mosque, the second tallest temple in the world, a true testament to Islamic art and Moroccan architecture.

After leaving Casablanca, we head to Rabat, an imperial city and the kingdom's capital. At lunchtime, we will make a stop at one of the charming local restaurants where you can indulge in Moroccan cuisine. In Rabat, we will travel back in time by visiting the Oudayas fortress, built as a protective shield for the city. A stone's throw away, the Hassan Tower rises, an unfinished 12th-century minaret and next to it, the ethereal mausoleum of Mohamed V, a true delight for architecture lovers with its white marble, stained glass, and elaborate wrought ironwork.

Our next stop will be Meknes, another of Morocco's imperial cities. You will be dazzled by its imposing architectural heritage, a legacy of Sultan Moulay Ismail who aspired to make it the Versailles of Morocco. We will walk along its robust walls, explore the gigantic Sehrij Souani water reservoir and the royal granaries that once housed up to 12,000 horses. You will be amazed by the grandeur of the Bab El Mansour Gate, one of the most beautiful gates in Morocco, and the bustling hustle and bustle of El-Hedim Square. Before leaving this imperial city, we cannot miss visiting Moulay Ismail's mausoleum, an oasis of peace in the middle of the city.

With the echoes of history resonating in our ears, we will leave Meknes and head towards Fez. As the sun sets, we will arrive in this millennial city, prelude to the wonders that the next day has in store for us. At each stop of this first day, you will feel how Morocco envelops you with its history, culture, and mystery, igniting the spark of anticipation for what is yet to come.

Day 2

The imperial city of Fez: a journey through the centuries

Our second day takes you to the heart of Fez, oldest city in Morocco, protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey through time, exploring the most emblematic corners of this millennial city in the company of an expert local guide.

We begin the day by visiting the imposing Royal Palace. Although its interior is not open to the public, the beauty of its architecture and its iconic golden doors are a sight in themselves. Afterward, we will delve into the Jewish quarter "Mellah", a haven of tranquility that contrasts with the bustle of the Medina. This neighborhood, with its narrow alleys and houses with balconies, will immerse you in the history of the Jewish community in Morocco.

Next, we will climb up to the Kasbah Borj fortress, a balcony with panoramic views of the Medina. Here, you can take stunning photos of the sea of roofs covering the thousands of houses and shops that form this labyrinth of streets.

Our adventure continues at a local ceramic and tile factory, where you can see up close the meticulous work of the artisans who shape the iconic tiles and vases of Fez. You will be amazed at how they transform clay into beautiful pieces of art.

The tour through the narrow streets of the Medina will take us to the Qarawiyyin Mosque, one of the oldest in the world still in operation. A few steps away, we will visit the Nejjarine Museum of Wood Arts and Crafts, a magical place where you will learn about the work of Fez's master carpenters.

Our journey through time continues in the Chouara tanneries, one of the city's most photographed places. Here, you will marvel at how artisans keep the tradition of tanning and dyeing skins alive using age-old techniques.

Before returning to the riad, we will take a walk through Rcif Square, a vibrant space full of life, and cross the historical Bab BouJeloud gates, the blue arch welcoming the Medina.

After a day full of discoveries, a well-deserved rest awaits you in your accommodation in the Medina. And, at night, we will venture again into the streets of Fez to enjoy dinner at one of its restaurants, where Moroccan cuisine will delight you with its mix of flavors and aromas.

This second day in Fez is more than just a simple visit, it's a journey through the centuries that will allow you to experience Moroccan history, culture, and tradition first-hand.

Day 3

From Fez to Merzouga, amidst mountains, valleys and dunes

On the third day of our tour, we embark on an enriching journey from the ancient city of Fez to Merzouga, the gateway to the imposing Sahara desert. This trip is not just a change of scenery, but a real stroll through the varied landscapes of Morocco.

Our journey begins with a beautiful crossing through the Middle Atlas Mountains. This mountain range, with its spectacular peaks and winding roads, will gift us panoramic views of countless green valleys where apples, apricots, and plums are grown. Here, nature is on full display, offering a spectacle of colors and aromas that change with each season.

Midway, we'll pause in Midelt, a small village nestled in the shadow of Mount Ayachi, one of the highest peaks in Morocco. Here, you'll be able to enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch while basking in the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings.

After lunch, the landscape will gradually begin to change as we cross the High Atlas Mountains and venture into the vastness of the palm groves. The imposing palm trees will provide an incredible backdrop for your photos and an opportunity to stretch your legs and breathe in the fresh desert air.

Our day concludes in Merzouga, where the mountains and green valleys give way to the extensive sand dunes of the Sahara. Here, you'll stay in a traditional Kasbah situated in front of the dunes, where you can enjoy a typical dinner while marveling at the spectacle of the desert sunset, a magical moment you will never forget.

The third day of our tour is a true celebration of Morocco's natural diversity, a day of contrasts that will take you from the historic streets of Fez to the immensity of the Sahara. Without a doubt, this day will be etched in your memory.

Day 4

An adventurous safari through Erg Chebbi and a night under the stars

Wake up in a world of golden dunes and clear blue sky to start your fourth day with a hearty breakfast. Once you've refueled, an unforgettable adventure awaits: a safari in a sturdy 4x4 that will take you to explore the dunes of Erg Chebbi and the secrets of life in the desert.

You'll travel through villages and nomadic settlements scattered like hidden gems in the vast tapestry of the desert. Here, time seems to move at a different pace. You'll pause during the journey to share tea with a nomadic family, a unique opportunity to get an authentic glimpse of their daily life and rich cultural heritage.

As you delve deeper into the desert, you'll be surprised to discover fossils and relics from a very ancient time, testaments to the region's incredible geological history.

A visit to the village of Khamlia will provide you with a unique musical experience. You'll be greeted by a Gnawa music band, whose hypnotic rhythms and spiritual chants will connect you with Morocco's rich cultural history. Here, you'll enjoy a refreshing mint tea and have lunch on the delicious "Madfouna", a Berber pizza stuffed with the most authentic local flavors.

The afternoon offers you the freedom to choose between several optional activities. You can try sandboarding, glide through the dunes in a buggy, or traverse the desert on a quad bike. Whichever you choose, it will be an exciting way to experience the Sahara.

As the sun begins to set, it will be time for you to embark on a camel trek. You'll marvel at the beauty of the red-tinged dunes as the sky lights up with the colors of sunset, a perfect backdrop for the most impressive photographs.

Upon your return to the camp, a special evening awaits. You'll delight in an exquisite dinner under the stars, next to a bonfire where Berber drummers and musicians will transport you with their melodies. Finally, you'll retreat to your luxury tent to spend the night under a starry sky that will take your breath away.

This fourth day promises to be an emotional and sensory journey that will take you from the serenity of the dunes to the vibrant Gnawa music, offering you a fascinating insight into the Sahara and its inhabitants.

Day 5

Sunrise over the dunes and exploration of ancient oases and majestic gorges

Before the sun illuminates the dunes of the Sahara, you'll wake up to witness a stunning natural spectacle: sunrise in Erg Chebbi. Watch as the sky is tinged with vibrant colors and the dunes seem to come alive in the glow of the rising sun. After this magical start to the day, you'll enjoy breakfast at the camp before embarking on your return journey by camel.

The next destination on your journey will be Rissani, a city with a rich history and an important role in the ancient caravanserai trade route. Here, in this place that was once known for its gold and slave auctions, you'll encounter the traces of history on every corner. Rissani is also the birthplace of Morocco's reigning dynasty, adding a touch of regality to its historical appeal.

Next, we will delve into the High Atlas Mountains to reach Tinghir, a charmingly green oasis surrounded by rugged mountains and deep canyons. The spectacular nature and panoramic views of Tinghir will leave you breathless. Here, we'll drive through the impressive Todra Gorge, where you'll have the opportunity to stroll through a landscape of rocky canyons and vast palm groves, before taking a break for a leisurely lunch.

We will continue our journey to Dades Gorge, a natural wonder filled with whimsical curves and rocky pinnacles, known as "the monkey fingers". Here, you'll find yourself in the midst of a landscape that seems lifted from a fantasy film. We'll then head to the Dades Valley, where a dreamlike landscape of high mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and charming villages awaits.

At the end of the day, you'll be welcomed into a cozy guest house, situated in a prime location with panoramic views of the valley. Here you can rest, dine, and reflect on the natural wonders and historical lessons that this fifth day of travel has offered you.

Day 6

From the Thousand Kasbahs to the enigmatic imperial city of Marrakech

In the morning, we'll embark on an unforgettable journey to Ouarzazate, through the beautiful Valley of the Roses and the evocative road of the Thousand Kasbahs. Here, Morocco's history unfolds in all its glory with fortresses and palaces at every step.

We will pass through the vibrant Skoura Oasis, a verdant spot in the midst of the desert where we'll discover the famous 17th-century Amridil Kasbah. This imposing fortress offers an optional visit that will allow you to immerse yourself in its intriguing past.

We'll continue towards Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Morocco" due to the large number of films that have been shot in its fascinating settings. You'll have the option to visit the film studios and discover how this quiet corner of Morocco has been transformed into a cinema mecca.

The next point of our journey is the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a stunning clay and stone settlement dating back to the 11th century. This architectural gem, which has been the setting for films like "Lawrence of Arabia" and "Gladiator", is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here we'll take a break for lunch and enjoy the historical atmosphere that envelops this place.

Afterwards, we'll continue through the charming Ounila Valley, which was once an essential trade route between the Sahara and Marrakech. We'll visit the Telouet Kasbah, the former domain of the powerful Glaoui family that ruled the region under the reign of King Moulay Hassan.

To culminate our journey, we'll cross the imposing High Atlas Mountains via the famous Tizi-N-Tichka pass, the highest paved road in Africa. Here, we'll take time to admire the panoramic views of the picturesque Berber villages and the majestic landscapes that adorn this route.

Finally, we'll delve into vibrant Marrakech, the red jewel of Morocco and one of the four imperial cities. Here, after a day full of experiences and discoveries, you'll enjoy a night of relaxation and charm in one of its thousands of Riads located in the millennia-old Medina. This sixth day of your adventure in Morocco will be a feast for your senses and a delicious mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Don't let this unforgettable adventure remain just in words. Make it real and become part of Morocco's magical history! Book this exciting tour now and start telling your own stories.

Discover other tours from Casablanca:
- Desert Route and Imperial Jewels
- Imperial Cities and Sahara Desert

Services included

Private 4x4 van with air conditioning
Escorted by driver/guide
Pick up and drop off at your hotel or airport
Breakfast
Dinner
Accommodation for all nights (guest House/ riad / hotel / tent)
Private guided visit of Fez with local Guide
Private traditional nomad tent in the desert camp
Camel trekking in the Sahara desert

Services excluded

Drinks
Tips
Lunch
Dinner In Fes
Entrance fees in Casablanca, Rabat, Fes

Highlights

Marrakech
Casablanca
Ouarzazate
Fez
Rabat
Meknes
Rissani
Tinghir
Dades Valley
Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
Todra Gorge
Overnight in the desert
Camel trek
Erg Chebbi Dunes

Aditional information

This tour requires a minimum of 2 people
Tour can be customized upon request
Tour provided in English, French, Spanish or Italian

Make an inquiry

Don't wait any longer! This fascinating tour of Morocco is just a click away. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience full of colors, flavors, and breathtaking landscapes that will leave you breathless. If you crave adventure, if you're ready to discover the unknown and are willing to let yourself be captivated by the magic of Morocco, this is your moment.

Submit the form and reserve your place on this exciting tour now. Remember, the best experiences are not those we dream about, but those we live.

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Even if you want to make some modifications, we can help you achieve the perfect trip.

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