Experience the best of Morocco on our captivating 11 Day Morocco Sahara Desert Tour from Casablanca. This journey is perfectly crafted for travelers seeking a blend of vibrant city life, ancient history, stunning natural landscapes, and the unforgettable magic of the Sahara Desert. Starting and ending in Casablanca, you will traverse diverse regions, from imperial cities and mountain ranges to the vast golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.
This 11 Day Morocco Sahara Desert Tour promises an immersive adventure, allowing you to explore rich architecture, interact with local cultures, savor delicious cuisine, and witness some of the most spectacular views Morocco has to offer. Prepare for a journey back in time on a camel ride into the desert sands and spend a night under the brilliant canopy of stars.
Upon your arrival at Mohammed V Airport in Casablanca, your dedicated driver will be waiting to welcome you and provide your private transportation for the entire 11-day trip. You will then visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Africa and the third largest in the world, known for its stunning combination of Islamic and Andalusian architecture and its towering 656-foot minaret. Afterwards, transfer to your hotel in Casablanca for the night.
Overnight: Hotel Barceló or similar
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Casablanca. Begin your day by further exploring Casablanca, Morocco’s economic capital and largest city. Visit the Habous Quarter (New Medina), an area showcasing traditional Moroccan architecture. Then, drive along the coast towards Rabat, the administrative and political capital. Explore the highlights of Rabat, including the Oudaya Kasbah, a historic fortress overlooking the Atlantic coast, and the unfinished Hassan Tower, dating back to the 12th century.
After breakfast, depart Rabat and journey north towards Chefchaouen, the famous “Blue City,” nestled in the Rif Mountains (part of the Baetic Mountains range). Chefchaouen is known for its unique blue-washed buildings and its distinctive Andalusian-influenced lifestyle and architecture. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided visit of its enchanting old medina, focusing on the Uta el-Hammam square, which serves as the heart and focal point of the town, with alleyways radiating in all directions.
Overnight: Riad Jasmine or similar
Meals: Breakfast Included
Enjoy a final stroll through the medina of Chefchaouen after breakfast. Then, drive to Volubilis, the most ancient preserved Roman city in Morocco. Settled in the 3rd century BC and later an annex of the Roman Empire, its ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into history. Continue to Meknes, an imperial city known for its connection to Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century. Meknes is situated in a fertile region known for cereals, olives, fruits, and wine. After exploring key sites in Meknes, proceed to Fes, another imperial city, for your overnight stay.
Overnight: Palais Houyam or similar
Meals: Breakfast Included
Dedicate today to a guided walking tour of the historic Medina of Fes (Fes el Bali), a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a licensed local guide. Explore the maze of alleyways that are only accessible on foot (or via donkeys/mules for goods). Visit famous landmarks including the Bab Boujloud gate, the vibrant Chouara Tannery (view from terraces), the Al-Attarine Medersa and Bou Inania Medersa (historical Islamic schools), the Foundouk el Nejjarine (Museum of Wooden Arts), and the Merinid tombs. Fes is also a great place to experience Moroccan cuisine – you might encounter local food tours or simply sample delights like honey cakes, Harira soup, and various types of Moroccan bread. You can also see traditional handmade ceramics.
Overnight: Palais Houyam or similar
Meals: Breakfast Included
Begin your journey southeast towards the Sahara Desert. Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, starting with the great cedar forest. Enjoy the varied landscapes as you pass through Ifrane, a city known for its European-style architecture, often called “Morocco’s little Switzerland.” Continue driving through the Middle Atlas to reach the Ziz Valley, famous for its vast palm groves and the Ziz River. This day culminates in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Experience the magic of the Sahara as you saddle a camel and trek into the dunes to witness a breathtaking desert sunset. Arrive at your traditional Berber desert camp where you will spend the night.
Overnight: Luxury Desert Camp or similar
Meals: Dinner & Breakfast Included (HB)
Enjoy breakfast in the desert camp. Experience the beauty of the desert morning. Then, begin your journey back, passing through Rissani (visit the local market if it’s a market day). Travel along the route known as the “1000 Kasbah Trail.” Learn about traditional nomadic irrigation methods. Pass through the Rose Valley (Kelaat M’gouna), known for rose production. Explore the dramatic Todra Gorges, with towering cliffs. Continue to the Dades Valley. Upon arrival, enjoy a traditional mint tea greeting.
Overnight: Hotel Xaluca Dades or similar
Meals: Dinner & Breakfast Included (HB)
After breakfast, continue your journey through the Dades Valley and the Valley of Roses. Drive towards Ouarzazate. The adventure continues through the photogenic Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi N’Tishka mountainous pass (2260m). On the way, stop to walk in the most typical and famous Kasbah, Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its architecture and use in countless films (like Gladiator, Vikings, Babel). Enjoy a stop for lunch (Excluded) in the High Atlas Mountains, experiencing Moroccan food amidst mountain scenery. Continue over the pass and descend towards Marrakech.
Overnight: Riad Touda, Riad Adore or similar
Meals: Breakfast Included (BB)
Wear comfortable walking shoes for your guided tour of the historic Medina of Marrakech with an official local guide. Discover hidden gems and major attractions. Your visit will include the vibrant Jardin Majorelle, the expansive El Badi Palace, the historical Ben Youssef Medersa (a former Quranic school), the intricate Bahia Palace, the lively Djemaa El Fna square, and the iconic Koutoubia Mosque (exterior visit). Immerse yourself in the sounds, sights, and smells of this dynamic city.
Overnight: Riad Touda, Riad Adore or similar
Meals: Breakfast Included (BB)
Today is dedicated to a full-day excursion to the coastal city of Essaouira, often called the “City of Winds” or formerly “Mogador.” Influenced by Portuguese architecture, Essaouira has a distinct exotic feel. Explore its historic Skala de la Ville ramparts offering panoramic ocean views, wander through the UNESCO-listed medina, and experience the vibrant fishing harbor (perfect for fresh seafood lunches – Excluded). Essaouira is also famous for its Gnawa music, reflecting a cultural crossroads. After a full day exploring this charming coastal town, drive back to Marrakech.
Overnight: Riad Touda, Riad Adore or similar
Meals: Breakfast Included (BB)
Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation in Marrakech. Depending on your departure flight time from Casablanca, you will be transferred from Marrakech to Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in Casablanca by your private driver. The drive takes approximately 2.5-3 hours via the highway.
Depart at any time.
Meals: Breakfast Included (BB)
Check out our artical about Best Time to Visit Morocco for an Unforgettable Experience
This 11 Day Morocco Sahara Desert Tour can be fully customized to suit your preferences and interests. Whether you want to adjust the itinerary, add extra activities, or focus on specific destinations, we offer tailor-made Morocco trips to ensure your journey is perfect for you. Contact us to create a personalized itinerary that matches your travel style!
This 11 Day Morocco Sahara Desert Tour from Casablanca provided a seamless and memorable journey. The included accommodation was lovely Riads and hotels. We loved the drive through the gorges and over the Atlas Mountains. The highlight, without a doubt, was the night spent under the stars in the Sahara Desert camp. It was a truly romantic and unforgettable experience. The organization was faultless.
This 11 Day Morocco Sahara Desert Tour from Casablanca provided a seamless and memorable journey. The included accommodation was lovely Riads and hotels. We loved the drive through the gorges and over the Atlas Mountains. The highlight, without a doubt, was the night spent under the stars in the Sahara Desert camp. It was a truly romantic and unforgettable experience. The organization was faultless.
This 11 Day Morocco Sahara Desert Tour from Casablanca provided a seamless and memorable journey. The included accommodation was lovely Riads and hotels. We loved the drive through the gorges and over the Atlas Mountains. The highlight, without a doubt, was the night spent under the stars in the Sahara Desert camp. It was a truly romantic and unforgettable experience. The organization was faultless.
This 11 Day Morocco Sahara Desert Tour from Casablanca provided a seamless and memorable journey. The included accommodation was lovely Riads and hotels. We loved the drive through the gorges and over the Atlas Mountains. The highlight, without a doubt, was the night spent under the stars in the Sahara Desert camp. It was a truly romantic and unforgettable experience. The organization was faultless.
This 11 Day Morocco Sahara Desert Tour from Casablanca provided a seamless and memorable journey. The included accommodation was lovely Riads and hotels. We loved the drive through the gorges and over the Atlas Mountains. The highlight, without a doubt, was the night spent under the stars in the Sahara Desert camp. It was a truly romantic and unforgettable experience. The organization was faultless.
