10-Day Moroccan Highlights from Casablanca to Sahara Desert

Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast in your hotel, savoring local flavors and preparing for the day's adventure. Your first stop is the iconic Hassan II Mosque, a marvel of Islamic architecture and a symbol of Casablanca. It's not just the size that impresses; the intricate decor and seaside setting are equally breathtaking. Afterward, you'll journey to Rabat, the capital city where political history and heritage converge. Here, you'll visit the Oudayas Kasbah with its blue and white walls, the Hassan Tower standing tall despite being unfinished, and the mausoleums of late Moroccan kings, a site of both reverence and architectural beauty. Your day in Rabat concludes with a restful night at a local hotel, preparing you for the journey ahead.

As the sun rises on Rabat, you'll depart for the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. This archaeological wonder offers a glimpse into the Roman Empire's vast reach, with its well-preserved mosaics and columns standing as silent witnesses to history. A short drive away is the imperial city of Meknes, where you'll feel the pulse of Moroccan life in its bustling Medina and marvel at the grandeur of historical sites like Bab Mansour and the expansive El Hedim Square. As dusk approaches, you'll arrive in Fes, where a comfortable hotel awaits to provide rest after a day of time-traveling through Morocco's imperial past.

Dedicate this day to the exploration of Fes, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. The city's old Medina, Fes El Bali, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a labyrinth of history. Here you'll discover treasures like the Bou Inania Madrasa, Al-Attarine Madrasa, and the Ennajarine Fountain, alongside the ancient Al-Qarawiyyine University. Each corner of this medieval city tells a story, with vibrant markets and historic mosques around every turn. After a day of discovery, enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch in the Medina before venturing to the newer part of Fes, Fes Al-Jdid. As night falls, you'll return to your hotel, the day's impressions still vivid in your mind.

Leaving the cultural richness of Fes behind, you'll travel through the Middle Atlas mountains, passing through the charming alpine town of Ifrane and the Cedar forest of Azrou, home to the indigenous Barbary macaques. The scenic route through Berber villages unfolds to reveal the stunning landscapes of the Ziz Valley as you approach Erfoud, known for its fascinating fossils. Your day culminates with the sight of Merzouga's golden dunes, where you'll spend the night at a hotel poised at the edge of the Erg Chebbi desert.

Experience the desert's magic with a 4x4 tour that takes you to the heart of the sandy expanse. You'll visit Khamlia village, where the soulful rhythms of Gnaoua music fill the air, and explore the remnants of colonial history at a deserted mining site. Encounter the nomadic lifestyle of the desert dwellers before enjoying lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, a camel trek takes you over the undulating dunes of Erg Chebbi to a desert camp. As the sun sets, the desert comes alive with a drum show, and the clear night sky offers an unrivaled opportunity for stargazing.

Rise early to witness the desert sunrise, a moment of serene beauty. After breakfast, you'll leave the dunes behind and journey to the Todra Gorges, a towering canyon that draws climbers and nature lovers alike. The drive continues through the market town of Rissani and the fertile Rose Valley, leading to the iconic Kasbah Amredil in Skoura. As the day's journey ends, you'll check into a riad in Ouarzazate, the gateway to the Sahara and a film-making hotspot.

Ouarzazate offers a unique blend of cinematic history and architectural splendor. You'll visit film studios and the cinema museum, then explore the earthen citadel of Ait Ben Haddou, a storied kasbah that has set the scene for numerous films. The journey to Marrakech takes you through the High Atlas Mountains, over the Tichka Pass, and into the city's bustling life as the sun sets.

A full day in Marrakech allows you to absorb its rich history and vibrant culture. Your guided tour will take you through the Medina, to the towering Koutoubia Mosque, the ornate Saadian Tombs, and the palatial Bahia Palace. You'll lose yourself in the souks' colors and chaos before finding tranquility in the Menara and Majorelle Gardens.

As your Moroccan journey draws to a close, you'll be transferred back to Casablanca or directly to the airport, carrying with you memories of a land steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty.