11-Day Trip Kasbahs & Deserts from Casablanca

Overview

This 11-day tour is a deep dive into the heart of southern Morocco’s most iconic landscapes and historic treasures. Starting from Casablanca, this journey is designed for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the world of ancient kasbahs and the breathtaking beauty of the Sahara Desert. You will explore imperial cities, travel the legendary "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs," and spend unforgettable nights under the desert stars before concluding in the vibrant city of Marrakech.

Highlights

• Visit Casablanca's magnificent Hassan II Mosque.
• Explore the imperial cities of Rabat, Meknes, and Fes.
• Discover the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis.
• Experience a sunset camel trek and a magical night in a desert camp in Merzouga.
• Enjoy a full day exploring the Sahara desert region.
• Journey through the dramatic Todra and Dades Gorges.
• Explore the legendary Aït Benhaddou kasbah and Ouarzazate.
• Discover the vibrant souks and Djemaa el-Fna square in Marrakech.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Welcome to Morocco! Your driver will meet you at Casablanca's Mohammed V Airport and transfer you to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you will visit the spectacular Hassan II Mosque.

Day 2: Casablanca → Rabat → Meknes → Fes

After breakfast, we drive to Rabat to see the Hassan Tower and Kasbah of the Udayas. We then continue to the imperial city of Meknes to admire the grand Bab Mansour gate and explore the old city. We'll also visit the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis before arriving in Fes for the evening.

Day 3: Fes Guided Tour

Today is dedicated to exploring Fes, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. With a local guide, you will dive into the labyrinthine Fes el-Bali medina, visiting the famous tanneries, Al-Attarine Madrasa, Nejjarine Fountain, and Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque.

Day 4: Fes → Ifrane → Midelt → Merzouga Desert

We leave Fes, driving south through the Middle Atlas mountains. We'll stop in Ifrane, the "Switzerland of Morocco," and the cedar forests of Azrou. We continue through the Ziz Valley, arriving in Merzouga. Here, you'll embark on a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes to your desert camp for the night.

Day 5: Merzouga Desert Exploration

Spend a full day exploring the Sahara. You can take an optional 4x4 tour to visit nomadic families, listen to Gnawa music in Khamlia village, and discover the unique desert landscapes. Enjoy another night in the desert, either at the camp or a hotel at the dune line, soaking in the profound peace.

Day 6: Merzouga → Todra Gorges → Dades Valley

After a desert sunrise, we journey to the Todra Gorges for a walk through the immense canyon. We then continue along the "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs" to the Dades Valley, famous for its dramatic rock formations.

Day 7: Dades Valley → Ouarzazate

Enjoy a relaxed morning in the Dades Valley. After breakfast, we travel to Ouarzazate, the "Hollywood of Africa." En route, we'll pass through the Valley of Roses and the Skoura Oasis. You will have the afternoon to explore Ouarzazate, perhaps visiting the Taourirt Kasbah or a film studio.

Day 8: Ouarzazate → Aït Benhaddou → Taroudant

Today we visit the legendary Aït Benhaddou kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After exploring the ksar, we drive south past the saffron fields of Taliouine to Taroudant, often called "Little Marrakech" for its impressive ramparts.

Day 9: Taroudant → Essaouira

We travel from Taroudant towards the Atlantic coast, arriving in the charming and artistic city of Essaouira. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze, explore the historic medina, walk along the ramparts, and see the iconic blue fishing boats in the harbor.

Day 10: Essaouira → Marrakech

After a leisurely morning in Essaouira, we drive to Marrakech. You'll have the evening free to get your first taste of the vibrant Djemaa el-Fna square as it comes alive with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls.

Day 11: Departure from Marrakech

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping. Your driver will then transfer you to Marrakech-Menara Airport (RAK) for your departure.

What's Included

• Private, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire tour
• Experienced English-speaking driver/guide
• Airport transfers
• 10 nights' accommodation in quality hotels/riads
• 2 nights in the Merzouga desert region (camp/hotel)
• Sunset camel ride
• Dinners and breakfasts as specified in the itinerary
• Guided tours in Fes and Marrakech

What's Not Included

• Flights
• Lunches and drinks
• Entrance fees for monuments
• Personal expenses and tips

Why Choose This Tour?

• Deep Dive into the South: This tour focuses heavily on the kasbah routes and the Sahara, offering a rich cultural and historical experience.
• Coastal Charm: Includes a visit to the beautiful coastal city of Essaouira for a refreshing contrast to the desert landscapes.
• Comfortable Pace: The 11-day itinerary allows for a comfortable pace with multi-night stays and less time spent on the road each day.
• Variety of Experiences: From imperial cities and Roman ruins to desert dunes and Atlantic breezes, this tour showcases the incredible diversity of Morocco.

FAQ

What makes this tour different from the 10-day tour? This 11-day tour offers a more in-depth exploration of the south, including a full extra day in the desert region and dedicated stops in Taroudant and the charming coastal city of Essaouira.

Is this tour suitable for summer travel? Yes, but be prepared for high temperatures in the desert. We ensure all vehicles are air-conditioned, and accommodations in the desert have options to stay cool.

Can I customize this itinerary? Absolutely. As a private tour, we can tailor it to your interests. For example, you could spend more time on the coast or add different activities.