7 Days Tour From Casablanca To Marrakesh

Overview

Explore the key attractions of Morocco during this dynamic one-week journey, commencing in Casablanca and concluding in Marrakesh. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the four imperial cities—Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakesh. Traverse ancient caravan routes in the desert, camping under the Saharan stars while enjoying the melodies of traditional Berber music. Uncover the allure of ancient fortified kasbahs and concealed oases, culminating in a scenic ascent over the High Atlas mountains, bringing you to the vibrant city of Marrakesh.

7 DAYS TOUR FROM CASABLANCA TO MARRAKESH Highlights:

Day 1: Arrive in Casablanca, Transfer to Chefchaouen

Arrive in Casablanca.
Transfer to Chefchaouen.

Day 2: Transfer to Fes via Volubilis & Meknes

Visit Volubilis.
Explore Meknes.
Transfer to Fes.

Day 3: Explore the Medieval Medina of Fes

Spend the day exploring the medieval Medina of Fes.

Day 4: Transfer to Erg Chebbi: Erfoud, Merzouga & Sahara

Travel to Erfoud.
Visit Merzouga and the Sahara Desert.

Day 5: Transfer to Ouarzazate via Desert Towns & Oases

Travel through desert towns and oases.
Arrive in Ouarzazate.

Day 6: Transfer to Marrakesh via Aït Benhaddou & Tizi n’Tichka Pass

Visit Aït Benhaddou.
Cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Arrive in Marrakesh.

Day 7: Marrakesh: Exploring the Red City, Depart

Explore Marrakesh.
Depart from Marrakesh.

Day 1: Arrive in Casablanca, Transfer to Chefchaouen

Welcome to Morocco! Begin your journey in the modern coastal city of Casablanca, where the focal point is the contemporary and monumental Hassan II Mosque. Inaugurated in 1993, this architectural marvel extends into the Atlantic, providing stunning views. Noteworthy for its 690-foot (210 m) minaret—the tallest in Morocco and the world—it stands out as one of the rare mosques in the country that welcomes non-Muslims. Engage in a guided tour to admire the intricate Moroccan and Islamic craftsmanship on display.

Heading north, discover the enchanting blue-hued streets of Chefchaouen nestled in the Rif Mountains, with a stopover in Rabat, the present-day capital. Explore the medieval Chellah Necropolis, featuring Roman and Islamic ruins, and visit the historical Bab Oudaia gate and the 12th-century Kasbah des Oudaias—a fortification from the Almohad era. Continue to the Hassan Tower, a minaret associated with an unfinished mosque, and the Mausoleum of Mohamed V.

Continue your journey northward to Chefchaouen, named after the twin peaks overlooking the town. “Chefchaouen” translates to “two horns.” Roam the steep, cobblestone streets, immersing yourself in the picturesque blue architecture. Take a moment to unwind in Plaza Uta el-Hammam with a refreshing mint tea before exploring the vibrant shops. Visit the nearby kasbah, delving into the 15th-century fortress and dungeon. As the day concludes, ascend to the deserted white Spanish Mosque atop the hill for a final panoramic view of Chefchaouen as the sun sets behind the mountains.

Day 2: Transfer to Fes via Volubilis & Meknes

Meet your designated driver and commence your journey south towards Fes. Enroute, take a break to explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO-protected site established in the third century BCE and impressively well-preserved. Continue your expedition with a stop in Meknes, a more tranquil counterpart to Fes, boasting a less bustling medina where shopkeepers are less insistent. While Meknes is expansive, the key areas of interest include the Ville Impériale (imperial city) and the easily navigable medina. Don’t miss the impressive Bab al-Mansour gate and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.

Continue your journey eastward towards Fes. Prior to delving into the medina, take a detour up the hill to explore the ruins of the Merenid Tombs, offering a panoramic view of the medieval city. The optimal time to visit is around dusk, when the muezzin’s calls resonate through the valley, accompanied by the city lights emerging, enhancing the ambiance. Return to your authentic riad for a hearty meal and unwind for the evening.

Day 3: Explore the Medieval Medina of Fes

Fes holds the distinction of being the oldest among Morocco’s four imperial cities, offering a captivating and rich exploration experience. Its medina is the most comprehensive in the Arab world, remaining remarkably unchanged since its establishment over a millennium ago. Widely regarded as the country’s cultural hub, Fes comprises three distinct parts: Fes el Bali, Fes el Jdid—both medina quarters—and the more contemporary Ville Nouvelle, influenced by French colonial architecture. Embark on a half-day exploration with your guide, delving into the history and culture while navigating the narrow streets of the medinas.

Commence your journey in Fes el Bali at the Bab Boujeloud gate, entering the bustling thoroughfare of Talâa Kebira. Observe the Spanish and Tunisian architectural influences as you pass through shops and souks. Within the old Medina, the tanneries, particularly Chouara Tannery, stand out as a unique spectacle. Ascend to the rooftop of a nearby leather shop for an enhanced view of 11th-century stone pots filled with dye, witnessing artisans at work utilizing centuries-old techniques.

Continue your exploration to the 14th-century Al Attarine Madrasa, a splendid showcase of Moroccan architecture and artistry featuring intricate zellij tilework. Proceed to one of the world’s oldest functioning universities, Al-Qarawiyyin University, adjacent to the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque (859 CE). While the mosque is accessible only to Muslims, glimpses into its adorned interior can be enjoyed from a few vantage points. For those interested in culinary arts, consider joining a cooking class to learn the art of preparing a typical Moroccan meal before concluding your day.

Day 4: Transfer to Erg Chebbi: Erfoud, Merzouga & Sahara

Commence your day with an early start, embarking on a journey southward toward Merzouga. Traverse an elevation of 7,146 feet (2,178 m) as you ascend the Col du Zad pass, passing through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas mountains. Enjoy glimpses of the local Barbary macaque monkeys before pausing for a delightful lunch in Midelt, aptly named the ‘apple city,’ by the picturesque Moulouya River. Proceed over the Tizi n’Talremt pass, venturing into the enchanting Ziz Valley, celebrated for its concealed oases and clusters of palm trees. Adorning the landscape are fortified houses known as ksars, erected to safeguard valuable commodities such as gold, salt, and spices.

Continue your journey to Erfoud, renowned for its date festival and fossil mining. Explore a local collective to gain insights into the intricate process and engage with skilled artisans. Press forward to Erg Chebbi, an expansive expanse of sand dunes spanning 13.5 square miles (35 square km). These colossal dunes, constantly in motion, shift and travel with the changing winds. Upon reaching Merzouga, transition to a new mode of transportation—camel riding—leading you through the dunes to a pre-arranged camp. Ascend a nearby sand dune to witness the breathtaking sunset before returning to the camp for a delectable dinner, surrounded by the warmth of a campfire.

Day 5: Transfer to Ouarzazate via Desert Towns & Oases

Begin your day by capturing the mesmerizing sunrise and then venture into the exhilarating world of sandboarding to test your skills on the dunes. Depart from the dunes and proceed to Khemliya, a traditional Saharan village with its roots tracing back to Mali. Continue your westward journey, passing through a dramatic gate into Rissani. This market town hosts a lively livestock auction and boasts a unique attraction—an intriguing “donkey parking lot” that is well worth a visit.

Make your way to Tinghir, a charming desert town, before reaching the awe-inspiring Todra Gorge, plunging to a depth of 984 feet (300 m). Take the opportunity to explore the gorge and unwind in the refreshing waters of the shallow Todra River.

Travel through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, where some of these ancient structures, though in varying states of disrepair, still serve as homes for local families. Encounter nomads tending to their animals as you head west to Kelâat M’Gouna, renowned for the Festival des Roses. Here, expansive farmlands are adorned with fragrant rose bushes. Continue your westward journey to Ouarzazate, a gateway to the Sahara Desert and a popular destination in the film industry. Partake in a studio tour, discovering how the nearby desert landscapes have played a starring role in numerous films.

Day 6: Transfer to Marrakesh via Aït Benhaddou & Tizi n'Tichka Pass

Embark on a journey to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Benhaddou. This ancient site, believed to trace back to the 11th century, once held a crucial position along the trans-Saharan trade route connecting Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, and the southern desert. Wander through the narrow streets, making your way to the Granary for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes. Ascend the High Atlas mountain range, keeping an eye out for the towering Mount Toubkal, reaching an elevation of 13,671 feet (4,167 m). Pause near the summit of the Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 7,415 feet (2,260 m) to appreciate the breathtaking views over the mountain range.

As you descend from the High Atlas, observe the striking shift in climate and landscape, eventually immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakesh. After a day on the road, settle into your hotel and enjoy the afternoon at your leisure. In the early evening, experience the lively ambiance of Jemaa el-Fna, the main square and the busiest square in Africa. Here, musicians, performers, snake charmers, games, and food stalls create a lively spectacle. For a more relaxed perspective, choose one of the numerous cafés surrounding the square and savor a meal while enjoying the vibrant entertainment.

Day 7: Marrakesh: Exploring the Red City, Depart

Known as the “Red City” due to its distinctive red sandstone walls and structures, Marrakesh holds a significant historical legacy as a crucial trading capital for Atlas mountain tribes. This former imperial city continues to captivate as you commence your exploration of its ancient medina.

Initiate your journey at the Koutoubia Mosque and Gardens, an iconic landmark. While the mosque’s interior is accessible only to Muslims, the 12th-century foundations and towering 253 feet (77 m) minaret are worth exploring. Stroll through the adjacent gardens, adorned with fountains and pools.

Immerse your senses in the intricate labyrinth of souks concealed behind unassuming restaurants and shops. Explore Souk el Attarin, Souk Chouari, and Souk Smata for a diverse array of spices, woodwork, and babouche (traditional Moroccan slippers). Witness traditional dyeing methods at Souk des Teinturiers, the dyers’ souk, where cloth and yarn come to life in vibrant hues.

Continue your journey to the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a 16th-century Quranic school showcasing exquisite Moroccan Islamic architecture. Marvel at the intricate details of its interior, including carved cedar ceilings, sculpted plaster, and zellij tiling.

As your day in Marrakesh unfolds, indulge in the city’s vibrant atmosphere before heading to the airport in the evening for your departure flight.

Includes:

Excludes: