9-Day Morocco Grand Tour: Marrakech, Sahara Desert, Fes & Casablanca
Experience the best of Morocco on this 9-day journey from Marrakech to Casablanca, combining vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and the magic of the Sahara Desert. This itinerary is designed to offer a perfect balance between culture, adventure, and relaxation.
Starting in Marrakech, you will cross the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, visiting traditional Berber villages along the way. Discover the famous Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert” and home to the renowned Atlas Film Studios.
The journey continues through the scenic valleys of Dades and Todra, where dramatic rock formations and lush palm groves create unforgettable landscapes. As you reach Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara, you will enjoy a camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, witnessing a spectacular sunset before spending a magical night in a desert camp under the stars, with traditional Berber music and cuisine.
After the desert experience, travel north through the Ziz Valley and the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in cedar forests where wild monkeys roam freely. Arrive in Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital, where you will explore its ancient Medina, historic mosques, madrasas, and bustling souks with a local guide.
Your journey continues towards Casablanca, passing through charming towns and landscapes that reflect Morocco’s diversity. In Casablanca, visit the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
This 9-day itinerary offers a complete Moroccan experience—from imperial cities and historic sites to desert adventures and coastal charm—creating unforgettable memories at every step.
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech
Upon arrival at Marrakech airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your driver and transferred to your riad or hotel. After some time to relax, enjoy a first taste of Marrakech by visiting the famous Jemaa el-Fna square, alive with storytellers, musicians, and street performers. Overnight stay in Marrakech.
Day 2: Guided Tour of Marrakech
After breakfast, enjoy an optional guided tour of Marrakech with a certified local guide. Discover the city’s main highlights, including the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, Ben Youssef Madrasa, and the vibrant souks of the medina. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Majorelle Gardens. Overnight in your riad.
Day 3: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Depart Marrakech and cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m). Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, one of the most iconic sites in Morocco. Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” with an optional stop at Atlas Studios and Taourirt Kasbah. Drive through the Valley of Roses before arriving in the Dades Valley. Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel.
Day 4: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, travel through Tinghir to reach the spectacular Todra Gorges, known for their dramatic canyon walls. Continue toward Merzouga, with a stop in Erfoud, famous for its fossil workshops. In the afternoon, begin your camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Enjoy a magical sunset before arriving at your desert camp. Dinner, traditional music, and overnight in a Berber tent.
Day 5: Merzouga Desert Exploration (Nomads & Gnawa Culture)
Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, explore the Merzouga region. Visit Khamlia village to experience authentic Gnawa music, and meet nomadic families living in the desert. Later, visit the traditional market of Rissani, one of the most important in southern Morocco. Return to Merzouga for overnight stay in a hotel or riad.
Day 6: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Ifrane – Fes
After breakfast, depart for Fes, passing through the scenic Ziz Valley and the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Midelt for lunch, then continue through the cedar forest of Azrou, where you may see Barbary macaques. Visit Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” before arriving in Fes in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 7: Guided Tour of Fes
Discover Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital, with a local guide. Explore the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit key landmarks such as the Royal Palace gates, Al Quaraouiyine University, the tanneries, and the Jewish Quarter (Mellah). Enjoy panoramic views over the city and visit a traditional ceramics workshop. Overnight stay in Fes.
Day 8: Fes – Volubilis – Meknes – Rabat – Casablanca
After breakfast, visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, one of Morocco’s most important archaeological sites. Continue to Meknes, the imperial city of Sultan Moulay Ismail, to visit Bab Mansour and El Hedim Square. Then travel to Rabat, Morocco’s capital, to explore the Hassan Tower, Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Kasbah of the Oudayas. In the afternoon, continue to Casablanca. Overnight stay.
Day 9: Casablanca – Departure
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a short tour of Casablanca, including the impressive Hassan II Mosque and the Corniche seaside. Transfer to the airport for your departure. End of our services.
Included
- Private transportation with air conditioning
- Professional driver/guide
- Fuel
- 7 nights in hotels/riads with breakfast
- 1 night in desert camp (dinner & breakfast included)
- Camel trekking in the Sahara Desert
- Dinner in the Sahara and Dades Valley
- Sandboarding in the dunes
Not Included
- Drinks
- Lunches
- Flight tickets
- Entrance fees to monuments
- Some dinners
We also offer a 9-day tour including a desert trekking experience, as well as a 12-day tour for those who have more time and wish to explore Morocco in greater depth.