12 Days Morocco Private Tour from Casablanca – Imperial Cities, Chefchaouen & Sahara Desert

Itinerary

1. 1
   Day 1

   Arrival in Casablanca – Airport Transfer

   • Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport

     Upon arrival at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, meet your private English-speaking driver-guide, who will welcome you to Morocco and assist you with your transfer.

   • Casablanca

     Travel through Casablanca, Morocco's largest city and economic capital, before arriving at your accommodation. Settle into your hotel and enjoy free time to relax after your journey. Overnight in Casablanca.

2. 2
   Day 2

   Casablanca to Chefchaouen via Rabat

   • Hassan II Mosque

     Begin your morning with a visit to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of Morocco's most impressive architectural landmarks. Located beside the Atlantic Ocean, the mosque is famous for its enormous minaret, intricate mosaics, carved woodwork, and traditional Moroccan craftsmanship.

   • Rabat

     Continue to Rabat, Morocco's capital city and one of its four imperial cities. Discover its fascinating historical heritage, beautiful architecture, and peaceful coastal atmosphere.

   • Hassan Tower

     Visit the historic Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret dating from the Almohad period. Admire the impressive remains of this ambitious mosque complex and learn about its importance in Moroccan history.

   • Kasbah of the Udayas

     Explore the beautiful Kasbah of the Udayas, a historic fortified neighborhood overlooking the Bou Regreg River and the Atlantic Ocean. Wander through its charming narrow streets and admire its distinctive blue-and-white architecture.

   • Rif Mountains

     After lunch in Rabat, travel north through the beautiful Rif Mountains. Enjoy scenic landscapes, traditional villages, and spectacular mountain views along the journey toward Chefchaouen.

   • Chefchaouen

     Arrive in Chefchaouen, Morocco's famous Blue Pearl. Explore the charming atmosphere of its blue-painted medina and traditional handicraft shops. Check into your riad in the old medina for the night.

3. 3
   Day 3

   Free Day in Chefchaouen – Explore the Blue Pearl

   • Chefchaouen Medina

     Spend your day exploring the beautiful blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen's historic medina. Discover picturesque alleyways, colorful doorways, traditional Moroccan houses, and charming corners perfect for photography.

   • Traditional Handicraft Shops

     Wander through the medina's traditional shops, where local artisans sell handmade textiles, woven blankets, pottery, leather goods, and other authentic Moroccan handicrafts.

   • Chefchaouen Old Town

     Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Chefchaouen's historic center. Discover local cafés, peaceful squares, traditional architecture, and the town's distinctive blend of Moroccan and Andalusian influences.

   • Rif Mountain Views

     Admire the beautiful mountain scenery surrounding Chefchaouen. Take time to enjoy panoramic viewpoints and appreciate the peaceful natural environment of Morocco's Blue City.

   • Free Time in Chefchaouen

     Spend the remainder of the day exploring independently, enjoying Moroccan mint tea, shopping for local handicrafts, or relaxing in the town's welcoming atmosphere. Overnight in the same riad.

4. 4
   Day 4

   Chefchaouen to Fes via Volubilis and Meknes

   • Chefchaouen Departure

     After breakfast at your riad, depart Chefchaouen and begin your journey toward Morocco's imperial cities, passing through beautiful countryside and traditional villages.

   • Volubilis

     Explore the UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site of Volubilis, one of the best-preserved Roman settlements in North Africa. Discover remarkable ancient mosaics, Roman columns, historical ruins, and impressive monuments.

   • Meknes

     Continue to Meknes, one of Morocco's four imperial cities and a former capital. Discover its rich historical heritage, impressive fortifications, traditional Moroccan architecture, and Spanish-Moorish influences.

   • Meknes Historic Medina

     Explore the historic atmosphere of Meknes, known for its monumental gates, traditional streets, imperial architecture, and fascinating connections to Sultan Moulay Ismail.

   • Fes

     Continue to Fes, one of Morocco's oldest imperial cities and an important center of culture, education, and traditional craftsmanship. Arrive at your hotel or riad for an overnight stay.

5. 5
   Day 5

   Guided Cultural Tour of Fes – Medina, Tanneries and Historic Monuments

   • Fes Medina

     Begin your guided cultural exploration of Fes, wandering through the narrow streets of its extraordinary historic medina. Discover traditional markets, artisan workshops, historic buildings, and centuries-old Moroccan traditions.

   • Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University

     Discover the historic Al Quaraouiyine complex, one of the most important centers of Islamic education and scholarship. Learn about its remarkable historical significance and admire its traditional architecture from accessible areas.

   • Bou Inania Madrasa

     Visit the magnificent Bou Inania Madrasa, celebrated for its intricate zellige tilework, carved cedarwood, decorative plaster, and exceptional Marinid architecture.

   • Fes Tanneries

     Discover the famous traditional leather tanneries of Fes, where artisans continue to practice centuries-old leather-processing techniques using traditional methods.

   • Fes Traditional Souks

     Explore the colorful markets of the old medina, where local craftsmen sell leather products, spices, traditional clothing, ceramics, brassware, and beautiful handcrafted goods.

   • Royal Palace of Fes

     Admire the magnificent ceremonial gates of the Royal Palace, famous for their decorative brass doors, intricate mosaics, and outstanding traditional Moroccan craftsmanship.

   • Fes Mellah

     Discover the historic Jewish Quarter of Fes and learn about the city's rich multicultural heritage, distinctive architecture, and historical communities.

   • Traditional Ceramic Cooperative

     Visit a local ceramic workshop to observe skilled artisans creating traditional Fes pottery, decorative tiles, and handcrafted ceramic pieces.

   • Merenid Tombs

     Visit the historic Merenid Tombs overlooking Fes and enjoy spectacular panoramic views across the old medina and surrounding city.

6. 6
   Day 6

   Fes to Merzouga via Ifrane, Azrou, Midelt and Ziz Valley

   • Ifrane

     Visit Ifrane, often called the Switzerland of Morocco because of its distinctive Alpine-style architecture, beautiful gardens, and peaceful mountain atmosphere.

   • Azrou Cedar Forest

     Explore the beautiful cedar forests near Azrou, where you may observe Barbary macaques in their natural habitat while enjoying the peaceful mountain scenery.

   • Middle Atlas Mountains

     Travel through the spectacular Middle Atlas Mountains, admiring forested landscapes, mountain villages, dramatic valleys, and panoramic viewpoints.

   • Midelt

     Stop in Midelt for lunch and enjoy the beautiful mountain landscapes surrounding this town, situated between Morocco's Atlas mountain ranges.

   • Ziz Valley

     Discover the magnificent Ziz Valley, famous for its extensive palm groves, beautiful oasis landscapes, traditional villages, and breathtaking panoramic viewpoints.

   • Erfoud

     Visit Erfoud, a desert oasis town famous for its rich fossil heritage and traditional workshops producing decorative objects from fossil-bearing stone.

   • Erg Chebbi Dunes

     Arrive at the breathtaking Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga, where magnificent golden sand dunes rise above the surrounding Sahara landscape.

   • Sahara Camel Trek

     Enjoy an unforgettable camel trek across the golden Sahara dunes, admiring the peaceful desert landscapes and beautiful evening colors.

   • Merzouga Desert Experience

     Enjoy dinner and a traditional musical experience around the campfire beneath the desert stars. The source lists overnight accommodation at a hotel near the dunes, although it also describes a camp experience on this day.

7. 7
   Day 7

   Merzouga Desert Tour – Nomadic Families, Rissani and Khamlia

   • Erg Chebbi Sunrise

     Wake early to experience an unforgettable sunrise over the magnificent golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Admire the beautiful colors of the Sahara and take memorable photographs.

   • Nomadic Family Visit

     Meet a local nomadic family living in the desert region and learn about traditional lifestyles, local customs, Berber hospitality, and daily life in the Sahara.

   • Rissani

     Explore the historic town of Rissani, the ancient capital of the Tafilalet region and an important trading center on historical trans-Saharan caravan routes.

   • Rissani Traditional Souk

     Discover one of the region's oldest traditional markets, where local traders sell spices, dates, vegetables, livestock, handicrafts, and everyday goods.

   • Moulay Ali Cherif Mausoleum

     Visit the historic mausoleum associated with Moulay Ali Cherif, an important ancestor of Morocco's Alaouite royal dynasty.

   • Khamlia Village

     Travel to the traditional village of Khamlia, known for its distinctive cultural heritage and local Gnawa musical traditions.

   • Gnawa Music Experience

     Enjoy authentic Gnawa music performed by local musicians and discover the fascinating rhythms and cultural traditions associated with this unique North African musical heritage.

   • Luxury Sahara Desert Camp

     Return to the golden dunes of Merzouga for a camel ride toward your desert camp. Spend an unforgettable night in a luxury tent surrounded by the peaceful Sahara landscape.

8. 8
   Day 8

   Merzouga to Dades Valley via Jorf and Todra Gorge

   • Merzouga Desert Sunrise

     Enjoy the option of witnessing another magnificent Sahara sunrise before breakfast and a refreshing shower at the desert camp.

   • Camel Ride from Desert Camp

     Enjoy a final camel ride across the dunes to meet your private driver and continue your journey through southern Morocco.

   • Erfoud

     Travel through Erfoud, a historic desert town surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the Tafilalet region.

   • Jorf Oasis

     Visit the traditional village of Jorf and discover the ancient khettara underground irrigation system, an ingenious method historically used to transport water to desert settlements and agricultural fields.

   • Todra Valley

     Explore the beautiful Todra Valley, known for its extensive palm groves, traditional Berber villages, historic kasbahs, and peaceful oasis landscapes.

   • Todra Gorge

     Discover the magnificent Todra Gorge, one of Morocco's most spectacular natural attractions. Admire its towering limestone cliffs, dramatic canyon scenery, and impressive rock walls reaching approximately 300 meters in height.

   • Dades Valley

     Continue to the picturesque Dades Valley, famous for its dramatic landscapes, traditional kasbahs, mountain villages, and beautiful rock formations. Overnight in a local hotel.

9. 9
   Day 9

   Dades Valley to Marrakech via Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou

   • Dades Valley

     Depart the beautiful Dades Valley and enjoy spectacular mountain scenery, traditional kasbahs, and picturesque southern Moroccan landscapes.

   • Rose Valley

     Travel through the famous Rose Valley, known for its fragrant roses, beautiful oasis landscapes, and traditional production of rosewater and cosmetic products.

   • Ouarzazate

     Discover Ouarzazate, often called the Hollywood of Africa because of its famous film studios and spectacular desert locations used in international productions.

   • Ait Ben Haddou

     Explore the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou. Discover its traditional earthen architecture and learn about its appearances in international productions including Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

   • High Atlas Mountains

     Travel through the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains, enjoying panoramic views of dramatic peaks, traditional Berber villages, and spectacular valleys.

   • Tizi n'Tichka Pass

     Cross the scenic Tizi n'Tichka Pass at approximately 2,260 meters above sea level, admiring beautiful mountain landscapes along the winding road.

   • Marrakech

     Arrive in Marrakech in the afternoon and settle into your traditional riad. Enjoy free time to relax or discover the vibrant atmosphere of the Red City.

10. 10
    Day 10

    Marrakech Guided City Tour – Palaces, Madrasa and Majorelle Garden

    • Bahia Palace

      Visit the magnificent Bahia Palace, famous for its beautifully decorated courtyards, traditional Moroccan mosaics, intricate carved woodwork, and elegant architecture.

    • Ben Youssef Madrasa

      Explore the historic Ben Youssef Madrasa, one of Marrakech's most remarkable architectural landmarks, celebrated for its beautiful zellige tilework, decorative plaster, carved cedarwood, and marble details.

    • Koutoubia Mosque

      Admire the iconic Koutoubia Mosque from outside, famous for its impressive minaret and outstanding example of Almohad architectural design.

    • Majorelle Garden

      Discover the peaceful beauty of Majorelle Garden, renowned for its exotic plants, colorful flowers, shaded pathways, and distinctive blue architectural features.

    • Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

      Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech's famous central square, where traditional musicians, storytellers, local performers, food stalls, and market activities bring the city to life.

    • Marrakech Traditional Souks

      Explore the lively traditional souks surrounding Jemaa el-Fnaa, where local artisans sell handmade leather goods, carpets, lanterns, spices, ceramics, textiles, and authentic Moroccan handicrafts.

11. 11
    Day 11

    Free Day in Marrakech – Shopping, Hammam and Spa

    • Marrakech Medina

      Spend the day exploring Marrakech's historic medina independently. Wander through atmospheric narrow streets, discover charming traditional buildings, and enjoy the city's rich cultural heritage.

    • Traditional Marrakech Souks

      Enjoy shopping in Marrakech's colorful traditional markets, where you can discover authentic Moroccan carpets, leather goods, lanterns, spices, jewelry, ceramics, and handmade souvenirs.

    • Traditional Moroccan Hammam

      Take the opportunity to experience a traditional Moroccan hammam, where steam bathing and exfoliation treatments offer an authentic local wellness experience. This activity is optional and its cost is not specified as included.

    • Marrakech Spa Experience

      Enjoy optional relaxation treatments at a local spa, such as traditional Moroccan massage or wellness services, depending on your personal preferences.

    • Free Time in Marrakech

      Spend the remainder of your day relaxing at your riad, exploring local cafés, enjoying Moroccan cuisine, or revisiting your favorite places in Marrakech before your final overnight stay.

12. 12
    Day 12

    Marrakech Airport Transfer – End of Morocco Tour

    • Marrakech

      Enjoy your final moments in Marrakech before departure, taking home unforgettable memories of Morocco's imperial cities, blue-painted Chefchaouen, the Sahara Desert, traditional Berber culture, and breathtaking Atlas Mountain landscapes.

    • Airport Transfer

      Meet your driver at your accommodation for the scheduled airport transfer. Your 12-day Morocco adventure concludes upon drop-off at your arranged departure airport.