12 Days Morocco Tour Itinerary from Casablanca to Merzouga

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Your Moroccan adventure begins in Casablanca, the economic hub of the country. Upon arriving at Mohammed V International Airport, transfer to your hotel to settle in. Spend the afternoon visiting the iconic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, featuring breathtaking architecture and ocean views. Take a leisurely walk along the Corniche, Casablanca’s scenic waterfront, and enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant.

Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat

On the second day, drive to Rabat, Morocco’s capital, located just an hour from Casablanca. Start with a visit to the Royal Palace, the official residence of King Mohammed VI. Continue to the Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret dating back to the 12th century. Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas, with its narrow streets, beautiful gardens, and views of the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy a stroll along the Bouregreg River before settling into your hotel for the night.

Day 3: Rabat to Chefchaouen

Leave Rabat behind as you drive to Chefchaouen, the enchanting Blue City nestled in the Rif Mountains. The drive takes about four hours. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the city’s unique blue-washed buildings. Spend the afternoon exploring the medina, visiting the Plaza Uta el-Hammam, and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. The blue hues create a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for leisurely walks and photography.

Day 4: Chefchaouen to Fes

Enjoy a peaceful morning in Chefchaouen before heading to Fes, one of Morocco’s most historic cities. The drive to Fes takes around four hours, offering scenic views along the way. Arrive in Fes in the late afternoon, check into your hotel, and take an evening stroll through the vibrant medina, soaking in the lively atmosphere and preparing for the explorations ahead.

Day 5: Exploring Fes

Dedicate a full day to exploring Fes, starting with the ancient University of Al-Qarawiyyin, the oldest continuously operating educational institution in the world. Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, renowned for its exquisite architecture. Take a guided tour of the Fes el-Bali medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can discover historical landmarks, traditional tanneries, and artisan workshops. Enjoy lunch at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the medina.

Day 6: Fes to Merzouga

Set out early for a long drive to Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Travel through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland,” and Azrou to see the famous cedar forests and Barbary macaques. Continue through the Ziz Valley, with its lush palm groves and dramatic landscapes, before reaching Merzouga in the late afternoon. Settle into your desert accommodation and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 7: Merzouga Desert Experience

Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert with a sunrise camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. The serene desert landscape and the stunning sunrise make for an unforgettable experience. Spend the day exploring the desert environment, engaging in activities like sandboarding, or simply relaxing at your Berber camp. Enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars, accompanied by Berber music and storytelling.

Day 8: Merzouga to Boumalne Dades

After breakfast, leave Merzouga and head towards Boumalne Dades. Along the way, stop at the breathtaking Todra Gorge, known for its towering cliffs and dramatic scenery. Continue to Boumalne Dades, a town situated at the edge of the stunning Dades Valley. Check into your accommodation and spend the evening exploring the valley, known for its unique rock formations and picturesque landscapes.

Day 9: Boumalne Dades to Ouarzazate

Depart Boumalne Dades and journey to Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Along the way, stop at the ancient Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and iconic ksar (fortified village) that has appeared in numerous films and TV shows. Arrive in Ouarzazate, explore the city known for its film studios and historic sites, and settle into your hotel.

Day 10: Ouarzazate to Marrakech

After a morning exploring Ouarzazate, embark on a drive to Marrakech. Pass through the High Atlas Mountains and enjoy the breathtaking views along the Tizi n’Tichka pass, the highest major mountain pass in North Africa. Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon, check into your hotel, and take an evening walk through the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square.

Day 11: Exploring Marrakech

Spend a full day exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque with its impressive minaret, and the beautiful Bahia Palace known for its stunning architecture and lush gardens. Wander through the lively souks, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Take a relaxing stroll through the Jardin Majorelle, a beautiful garden designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent. End your day at Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where you can experience the bustling evening scene with food stalls, entertainers, and a lively atmosphere.

Day 12: Return to Casablanca

On your final day, spend the morning enjoying the sights and sounds of Marrakech. Visit any attractions you may have missed, or simply relax and soak in the ambiance of this vibrant city. In the afternoon, begin your drive back to Casablanca, which takes about three hours. Once you arrive in Casablanca, take some time for any last-minute sightseeing or shopping before heading to the airport for your departure.

Conclusion

This 12-day tour through Morocco offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, historical landmarks, and natural beauty. From the modernity of Casablanca to the ancient medinas of Fes and Marrakech, and the serene landscapes of the Sahara Desert, each day brings new adventures and unforgettable experiences. This itinerary ensures you get a comprehensive taste of what Morocco has to offer, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime.