12 Days Morocco tour from Casablanca

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Overview: 12 Days Morocco Tour from Casablanca

Discover the heart of Morocco on this unforgettable 12-day tour from Casablanca, combining the four imperial cities — Marrakech, Rabat, Fes, and Meknes — with the magic of the Sahara Desert. Begin with a visit to the majestic Hassan II Mosque, then explore Rabat’s medina, Hassan Tower, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Wander through Fes’s vibrant souks and historic madrassas, and experience the charm of Marrakech.

Enjoy a camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi with a magical desert camp stay. Visit the dramatic Todra Gorges, Dades Valley, and famous kasbahs like Ait Ben Haddou, before ending your journey along the Atlantic coast in Essaouira.

Highlights : 12 Days Morocco tour from Casablanca

• Explore the grandeur of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, the largest functioning mosque in Africa.
• Visit the historical landmarks of Rabat, including the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the vibrant medina.
• Wander through the expansive UNESCO World Heritage Site of Volubilis, marveling at the Roman ruins.
• Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Fes, exploring winding souks, traditional tanneries, Quranic schools, and breathtaking mosques.
• Enjoy a camel ride, guided by a skilled camelman, to your luxurious camp in Erg Chebbi and witness a mesmerizing sunset.
• Gain insights into the traditional architecture of Kasbahs Ait Ben Haddou, Telouet, and Amredil.
• Discover the enchanting city of Marrakech with its bustling souks, lush gardens, captivating madrassas, stunning palaces, and the lively Djema’a el Fna square.

Day 1: Casablanca- Rabat

Begin your journey with airport pickup in Casablanca and travel in comfort through the picturesque Moroccan countryside to the city in an air-conditioned vehicle. Upon arrival in the city center, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Hassan II Mosque, a remarkable architectural feat inaugurated in 1993 to celebrate the 60th birthday of King Hassan II. This mosque is the second largest religious structure in Africa and boasts the second tallest minaret in the world. After the visit to the mosque, you will drive to the capital, Rabat, and explore the historic Chellah, a 14th century necropolis with Roman foundations. Overnight in a charming riad.

Day 2: Rabat – Meknes – Fes

The Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, which was constructed in honor of the monarch who died in 1961, are the destinations we explore following breakfast at the riad. Hassan II, his son and heir, is likewise interred here; he passed away in 1999. The mausoleum’s tile work is very astounding; each little tile is cut by hand and then placed. The clothes worn by the guards are equally impressive.We make a detour north of Meknes to visit Volubilis, where we behold the vast and far-reaching Roman ruins. Here, it is well worth hiring an experienced, local guide. There are lovely views of the hills and valley from the plain. Proceed to Fes where you will spend the evening in a riad.

Day 3: Guided Tour of Fes

Embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Fez, visiting Al-Kairaouine University, recognized as the oldest functioning university in the world. Explore the historic core, the Fes el-Bali Medina, with its narrow alleys and landmarks such as the Medersa Bou Inania and the Kairaouine Mosque. In the afternoon, get to know Fes El-Jdid and visit the Museum of Moroccan Art. Overnight at your riad.

Day 4: From Fez to Merzouga

Travel south through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through picturesque villages such as Ifrane and Azrou. Continue through the Drâa-Tafilalet region, enjoying unique landscapes, palm oases and ancient villages. Arrive in Merzouga, known as the “gateway to the Sahara”, and enjoy a camel ride to your luxury camp for the night, with a traditional nomad tent and a musical evening.

Day 5: Merzouga Desert

After breakfast, explore the Sahara region in greater depth. Begin with a visit to the Gnawa community in Khamlia, where you’ll enjoy traditional Gnawa music, a spiritual heritage brought from sub-Saharan Africa centuries ago.

Continue to Rissani, the historic foundation of Morocco’s Alaouite dynasty. Surrounded by numerous ksars, this lively town hosts a traditional souk three times a week, offering spices, dates, handicrafts, and local goods. Rissani stands on the ancient site of Sijilmassa, once a key hub for trans-Saharan caravans arriving from Timbuktu.

In the afternoon, return to the dunes of Erg Chebbi for a relaxing evening at your hotel facing the sand. Optional quad or buggy rides are available before dinner and overnight in a luxury riad.

Day 6: From Merzouga to Ouarzazate

On the sixth day of the 12 Days Morocco tour from Casablanca. The adventure continues. Returning with camels from the camp, embark on a 4×4/minivan journey towards the Todra Gorges. Traverse the Tafilalet palm grove, the Anti Atlas Mountains, and pause at the breathtaking Todra Gorges. Progress through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, Dades Valley, Rose Valley, and Skoura Palmeraie before culminating the day in Ouarzazate, the cinematic capital of Morocco.
Enjoy the evening with dinner and accommodation in a hotel, including dinner and breakfast.

Day 7: Ouarzazate to Marrakech

After breakfast, journey to the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and famous backdrop for many Hollywood films, with structures dating back to the 17th century. Travel through the stunning Ounila Valley, where winding roads reveal colorful rock formations, Berber villages, and lush gardens.

Next, visit Telouet Kasbah, once the grand residence of Thami El Glaoui, the last Pasha of Marrakech. Though parts of the kasbah lie in ruins, its intricate interiors and traditional decorations remain captivating. Cross the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka, the highest major pass in Africa, before descending into vibrant Marrakech, where the day concludes.

Day 8: Marrakech Half Day Guided Tour

Your day in Marrakech is a half-day immersion into the captivating Red City. Meet your private local guide in the morning at your Riad to discuss the day’s possibilities. Dive into the bustling souks, vibrant markets, and consider visiting the Photography Museum…

Day 9: Marrakech to Essaouira

The journey takes you from Marrakech to the enchanting town of Essaouira. Formerly known as Mogador to the Portuguese, Essaouira is a picturesque coastal town famous for its local handicrafts, particularly thuja wood furniture, carving, and small artifacts, available in numerous shops along its windy streets. The Portuguese ramparts gained fame in Orson Wells’ film “Othello,” shot here. Explore the women’s cooperative processing argan nuts into versatile oils, perfect for salads and skin care. Indulge in freshly caught fish at the seafront and enjoy the surfing opportunities and beach, making it an ideal spot for coastal enthusiasts. Essaouira boasts a mild winter and cool summer micro-climate, making it a preferred destination for relaxation after a desert trip. Spend your nights in a riad in the town.

Day 10: Essaouira

Free day in Essaouira.

Day 11 : Essaouira – Casablanca

The journey continues from Essaouira to Casablanca. After breakfast, embark on the approximately five-hour drive back to the Casablanca. En route, consider a stop in El Jadida to explore the Portuguese cistern and the old Portuguese town. Continuing north along the coast road, pass by Azemmour (Azamor), a small ancient town on the left bank of the Oum Er-Rabia River. Transfer to your hotel in Casablanca.

Day 12: Transfer to the airport

Conclude your unforgettable journey with a transfer from your riad to Casablanca airport for your departure, having experienced the charms and breathtaking scenery of 12 Days Morocco tour from Casablanca.