10 Days Tour from Casablanca

Embark on a 10-day tour from Casablanca, exploring Morocco’s vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and ancient history. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the peaceful Sahara desert and the charming coastal city of Essaouira, this tour is perfect for travelers eager to experience the full beauty and cultural diversity of Morocco.

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Explore the City

Start your journey in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and commercial hub. Highlights of Casablanca include:

• Hassan II Mosque: Situated on the Atlantic coast, this architectural marvel is one of the largest mosques in the world, known for its stunning detail and intricate craftsmanship.
• The Corniche: Walk along the seaside promenade with its beach views, cafes, and shops.

After a day of exploring Casablanca, spend the night in the city before heading to Rabat the next day.

Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat – Exploring Morocco’s Capital

Drive along the coast to Rabat, Morocco’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you’ll discover the city’s rich history:

• Kasbah of the Udayas: A picturesque, fortified kasbah with Andalusian gardens and ocean views.
• Hassan Tower: The city’s most iconic structure, part of an unfinished mosque complex from the 12th century.
• Mausoleum of Mohammed V: A stunning monument with intricate architecture dedicated to Morocco’s late king.

Stay overnight in Rabat and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the capital city.

Day 3: Rabat to Chefchaouen via the Rif Mountains

Discover Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl of Morocco

Journey north through the Rif Mountains to reach Chefchaouen, famously known as the “Blue Pearl.” This enchanting city is renowned for its blue-painted streets and scenic surroundings. Explore its charming medina, bustling local markets, and try traditional Moroccan dishes. Overnight in a riad in Chefchaouen, enjoying its magical atmosphere.

Day 4: Chefchaouen to Fes – Exploring the Imperial City

Depart Chefchaouen and travel to Fes, one of Morocco’s oldest and most historically significant cities. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the heart of Fes:

• Fes el-Bali: The ancient walled medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world.
• Al Quaraouiyine University: Founded in 859 AD, it is the oldest university in the world.
• Chouara Tannery: Watch artisans at work in the famous tannery, where leather is dyed using traditional methods.

After exploring Fes, relax in your riad in the old medina and prepare for another day of discovery.

Day 5: Full Day in Fes – Exploring the Cultural Highlights

Spend the day touring Fes with an experienced guide to delve deeper into the city’s history and culture. Key attractions include:

• Bou Inania Madrasa: A 14th-century madrasa with intricate zellige tilework and carved cedar wood.
• Royal Palace Gate: Though the palace itself is closed, the golden gates make for stunning photos.
• Jewish Quarter (Mellah): Visit the historic Jewish quarter for insight into the diverse culture of Fes.

This day allows for a complete experience of Fes’s cultural and historical richness. Spend another night in Fes.

Day 6: Fes to Merzouga via the Middle Atlas Mountains

Journey through the Middle Atlas to the Sahara

Depart from Fes, crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains and passing through:

• Ifrane: Known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine charm.
• Azrou Cedar Forest: Spot the Barbary macaques and enjoy the forested landscape.

Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert, by afternoon. Embark on a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, watching the sunset over the vast sands. Spend the night in a traditional desert camp, enjoying local Berber music and stargazing under the clear desert sky.

Day 7: Merzouga to Dades Valley via Todra Gorge

Explore the Dramatic Landscapes of Todra Gorge

After breakfast, leave Merzouga and travel towards the Todra Gorge, with its impressive cliffs and flowing river. The gorge is ideal for a peaceful walk, photo opportunities, or a short hike. Continue through the stunning Dades Valley, also known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” where you’ll encounter unique rock formations and traditional Berber villages.

Stay overnight in the Dades Valley, surrounded by lush landscapes and natural beauty.

Day 8: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou

Discover the Film Capital of Morocco – Ouarzazate

Journey to Ouarzazate, a city known for its film studios where famous movies like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia were filmed. Visit:

• Kasbah Taourirt: A historic kasbah showcasing traditional Moroccan architecture.
• Atlas Studios: Tour the sets and learn about Morocco’s role in the film industry.

Continue to the nearby Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient ksar (fortified village) is a stunning example of earthen architecture and has been used as a backdrop in numerous films. Spend the night in Aït Benhaddou or Ouarzazate.

Day 9: Ouarzazate to Marrakech via the High Atlas Mountains

Crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass

Travel over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. This scenic drive offers panoramic views of valleys, Berber villages, and mountain landscapes. Arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon, where you can begin exploring the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

In the evening, visit the famous Jemaa el-Fna square, where you’ll find street food vendors, musicians, and performers creating a lively ambiance. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 10: Full Day in Marrakech – Discovering the Red City

Spend your final day exploring Marrakech, Morocco’s “Red City,” with its bustling markets, historic sites, and gardens. Key attractions include:

• Koutoubia Mosque: The city’s largest mosque and a striking example of Almohad architecture.
• Bahia Palace: A beautiful palace with intricate tilework, gardens, and courtyards.
• Saadian Tombs: Resting place of Saadian royalty, with intricate mosaics and carved details.
• Majorelle Garden: A peaceful garden created by artist Jacques Majorelle and later owned by designer Yves Saint Laurent.

Wrap up your Moroccan adventure in Marrakech, soaking in the last of the city’s rich culture and vibrant ambiance before your departure.

This 10-day tour from Casablanca offers a perfect introduction to Morocco’s diversity, from historical cities and the dramatic Sahara Desert to the enchanting Atlas Mountains and bustling souks. With a variety of landscapes and cultural highlights, this journey promises an unforgettable Moroccan experience.