Morocco Tours from Casablanca

Casablanca is Morocco's economic hub and modern city. While not as tourist-focused as Marrakech or Fes, it's worth a brief visit (half-day to one day) to see:

• Hassan II Mosque (the main attraction)
• The Corniche waterfront
• Rick's Café (recreation from the famous film)
• Art Deco architecture in downtown
• Mohammed V Square

Many travelers use Casablanca primarily as an arrival/departure point and quickly move to other destinations.

Yes, popular day trips include:

• Rabat (1 hour): Morocco's capital with royal palaces and historic sites
• Marrakech (3 hours): Possible as a long day trip, though overnight stays are recommended
• El Jadida (1.5 hours): Coastal Portuguese fortress town

Note: Fes is approximately 4.5 hours away, making it impractical as a day trip.

Morocco's four imperial cities are:

1. Rabat: Current capital, Hassan Tower, Mohammed V Mausoleum
2. Fes: Ancient medina, tanneries, El Quaraoiyin Mosque
3. Meknes: Bab Mansour gate, royal stables, nearby Volubilis Roman ruins
4. Marrakech: Jemaa el-Fna square, Bahia Palace, souks, gardens

Sahara Desert experiences typically include:

• Journey through Atlas Mountains and Berber villages
• Visit to Ait Benhaddou (UNESCO World Heritage kasba)
• Camel trekking at sunset
• Overnight in traditional desert camps
• Sunrise over the dunes
• Todra or Dades Gorges exploration
• Traditional Berber music and dinner

Yes, most 7+ day tours include Chefchaouen, the famous "Blue Pearl" of Morocco. This picturesque mountain town is known for its blue-painted medina, relaxed atmosphere, and stunning mountain backdrop. It's typically visited en route between Casablanca/Rabat and Fes.

Tour durations vary based on your interests:

• 3-4 days: Quick visits to nearby cities like Rabat and Marrakech
• 6-8 days: Imperial cities with desert experience
• 10-14 days: Complete Morocco exploration including coastal areas and mountain regions

Most travelers find 7-10 days ideal for experiencing Morocco's highlights without feeling rushed.

Standard tour packages generally include:

• Private air-conditioned transportation
• English-speaking driver/guide
• Accommodation (hotels, riads, or desert camps)
• Daily breakfast (some tours include additional meals)
• Entrance fees to major attractions
• Desert activities (camel trekking, sandboarding)
• Airport transfers

Note: Lunches, dinners (unless specified), drinks, and tips are typically not included.

Pricing varies significantly based on tour length and comfort level:

Budget Tours: $60-100 per day

• Basic accommodations and mountain gîtes
• Shared transportation options
• Limited meals included

Mid-Range Tours: $150-220 per day

• 3-4 star hotels and comfortable riads
• Private transportation
• Most meals included

Luxury Tours: $250-400+ per day

• 4-5 star hotels and premium riads
• Exclusive experiences
• All meals and premium services

Typical tour costs:

• 3-day tour: $300-900
• 7-day tour: $1,050-2,500
• 10-day tour: $1,500-4,000

Plan for extra expenses including:

• Lunches and dinners: $10-20 per meal
• Optional activities: $15-50 each (cooking classes, hammam experiences)
• Shopping and souvenirs: $50-200+
• Tips for guides and drivers: $5-10 per day
• Personal expenses and drinks

Budget an additional $100-150 for optional activities during your stay.

July and August typically offer the lowest prices, though temperatures are highest. The shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) provide the best value with pleasant weather. Avoid booking during December 20 - January 5 when prices increase by approximately 10%.

Yes, if you need to stay longer than 90 days, you can request an extension at the nearest police station for an additional 90 days. It's recommended to apply before your initial 90-day period expires.

Essential Items:

Clothing:

• Comfortable walking shoes (essential for medina exploration)
• Loose, lightweight clothing for hot weather
• Long pants/skirts and full-coverage tops (for mosque visits)
• Light scarf or shawl (for sun protection and religious sites)
• Layers for cooler evenings and mountain regions
• Warm jacket for desert nights (temperatures can drop significantly)

Accessories:

• Sun hat and sunglasses
• High SPF sunscreen
• Reusable water bottle
• Small backpack or cross-body bag
• Power adapter (European two-pin plugs)

Documents & Health:

• Passport (photocopies recommended)
• Travel insurance documents
• Prescription medications in original packaging
• Basic first aid kit
• Hand sanitizer and toiletries

Optional but Recommended:

• Camera with extra batteries
• Portable charger
• Modest swimwear (if visiting riads with pools)
• Flashlight for desert camps

Spring (March-May): Ideal weather, blooming landscapes, moderate temperatures (15-25°C)

Fall (September-November): Excellent conditions, fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures

Summer (June-August): Very hot inland (35-45°C), but pleasant in coastal areas and mountains. Best for budget travelers.

Winter (December-February): Cool to cold, especially in mountains. Good for desert visits but expect chilly nights.

Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Exchange: Best rates at banks or official exchange offices. Avoid exchanging at hotels. ATMs are widely available in cities.

Credit cards: Accepted at hotels and larger restaurants, but cash is essential for souks, taxis, and small vendors.

Tipping: Expected in Morocco

• Guides: $5-10 per day
• Drivers: $3-5 per day
• Restaurant servers: 10% if service not included
• Small services: 5-10 MAD

Most tours begin with pickup from:

• Hassan II Mosque (most common meeting point)
• Mohammed V Square
• Mohammed V International Airport (CMN)
• Your hotel in Casablanca

It's recommended to spend at least a few hours visiting Hassan II Mosque before departing, as it's Africa's largest functioning mosque and a stunning architectural masterpiece.