8 Days Tour from Casablanca to Sahara Desert

Your adventure begins in Casablanca, Morocco’s modern economic hub by the Atlantic coast. Upon arrival, you’ll visit the stunning Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, beautifully located on the oceanfront. After exploring this architectural masterpiece, you will travel to Rabat, the country’s capital city. Here, history blends seamlessly with modern life as you stroll through landmarks such as the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the charming Kasbah of Oudayas. The first day offers the perfect introduction to Morocco’s cultural richness and diversity.

From Rabat, the journey continues north into the breathtaking Rif Mountains until you reach Chefchaouen, famously known as the “Blue Pearl” of Morocco. Nestled between rugged peaks, this small town is a magical place with its streets and houses painted in shades of blue. The atmosphere is calm and peaceful, making it the ideal spot to wander leisurely through its narrow alleys, enjoy Moroccan tea in traditional cafés, and capture unforgettable photographs. This stop provides a relaxing and visually stunning experience before continuing deeper into Morocco’s imperial heritage.

Leaving Chefchaouen, the tour leads to Volubilis, an extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Morocco’s Roman past. You’ll walk among impressive ruins, ancient mosaics, and majestic columns that tell stories from centuries ago. Next, you head to Meknes, one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, where you’ll discover Bab Mansour, one of the grandest gates in North Africa, as well as the Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail. The day ends in Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital, where history and tradition await you.

A full day in Fes allows you to dive into the oldest and most authentic medina in the country, guided by a local expert. This labyrinth of narrow streets is home to colorful souks, centuries-old madrasas, and the famous tanneries where leather is still dyed in the traditional way. Highlights include the Karaouiyine University, the oldest existing educational institution in the world, and the vibrant artisan quarters where craftsmen work with wood, ceramics, and textiles. From the Merenid Tombs viewpoint, you will admire the panoramic beauty of the entire city, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s soul.

After breakfast, the road south takes you through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains. The first stop is in Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its alpine architecture. Then you’ll pass through Azrou’s cedar forests, where Barbary monkeys live in the wild. The landscape transforms as you drive along the Ziz Valley, lined with palm groves and kasbahs. By late afternoon, the majestic dunes of Merzouga rise on the horizon. Here begins your camel trekking adventure across the golden sands of Erg Chebbi, ending with a night in a luxury desert camp under the starry sky, accompanied by traditional Berber music.

Waking up early, you will witness one of the most magical moments of the journey: the sunrise over the Sahara Desert. After breakfast at camp, the tour continues to Rissani, a traditional desert town known for its lively souk. The road then takes you through changing desert landscapes until you reach the Todra Gorge, where towering rock cliffs surround a narrow valley. This natural wonder is a paradise for hiking, photography, and simply admiring Morocco’s raw beauty. The day ends in the scenic Dades Valley, where you’ll spend the night in a charming guesthouse.

The journey continues through the Dades Valley and the Valley of Roses, known for its fragrant rose water and traditional kasbahs. Passing through Skoura and Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa,” you’ll explore film studios and discover the cinematic landscapes used in world-famous movies. A highlight of the day is visiting the UNESCO-protected Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a magnificent fortified village made of clay and stone. Crossing the dramatic High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n’Tichka pass, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views before arriving in the lively city of Marrakech in the evening.

Your last day is dedicated to discovering the wonders of Marrakech, Morocco’s most vibrant city. A guided tour takes you to the Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and the impressive Koutoubia Mosque. You will stroll through the colorful souks filled with spices, textiles, and handicrafts before experiencing the magical Jemaa el-Fnaa square, alive with musicians, storytellers, and food stalls. For a moment of peace, the Majorelle Garden offers a calm oasis in the city. At the end of the day, you will be transferred to Casablanca or Marrakech airport, marking the conclusion of an unforgettable 8-day journey through Morocco from the Atlantic coast to the Sahara Desert.