8-Day Casablanca to Marrakech Sahara Tour
Discover the imperial cities, mountain scenery and Sahara Desert on this private 8-day tour from Casablanca to Marrakech. Visit Rabat and the blue streets of Chefchaouen before exploring the historic medina of Fes. Continue through the Middle Atlas to Merzouga, then discover the dramatic gorges, palm oases and fortified villages of southern Morocco before crossing the High Atlas Mountains to Marrakech.
Day 1: Casablanca to Rabat and Chefchaouen
Depart Casablanca and travel to Rabat, the capital of Morocco. Discover Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the Kasbah of the Udayas, with its traditional streets and views over the Atlantic coast. Continue north through the countryside towards the Rif Mountains. Arrive in Chefchaouen, a mountain town famous for its blue-painted streets and peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy time to discover the first corners of the medina and appreciate the distinctive character of the town.
Day 2: Chefchaouen to Fes
Enjoy time in Chefchaouen to explore its blue lanes, small squares and traditional houses. Walk through the old medina and enjoy views of the surrounding Rif Mountains. The town offers a relaxed atmosphere and many opportunities to discover local architecture and daily life. Later, depart towards Fes through the landscapes and rural towns of northern Morocco. Arrive in Fes, one of the country most important imperial cities, and enjoy the evening near its historic medina.
Day 3: Full day discovering Fes
Spend the day exploring the cultural heritage of Fes. Discover the old medina, its traditional souks, artisan workshops and historic quarters. Learn about the crafts that remain an important part of local life and enjoy the atmosphere of the narrow streets. Visit the surroundings of the famous Chouara Tannery from a suitable viewpoint and admire the exterior of the Royal Palace gates. This full day allows you to appreciate the history, architecture and traditions of one of Morocco most remarkable cities.
Day 4: Fes to Ifrane, Azrou and Midelt
Leave Fes and travel towards the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane, known for its distinctive architecture and green spaces. Continue towards Azrou and the surrounding cedar forests, where wooded hills and open mountain scenery create a different atmosphere from the cities. Travel through traditional villages and agricultural areas before reaching Midelt. Located between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas ranges, Midelt is surrounded by mountain landscapes and offers a peaceful stop on the way to the Sahara.
Day 5: Midelt to Merzouga via the Ziz Valley and Erfoud
Travel south through the spectacular Ziz Valley, known for its palm groves, traditional villages and panoramic views over the oasis. Stop at suitable viewpoints to appreciate the contrast between green vegetation and the surrounding rocky landscape. Continue through Erfoud, a town associated with fossils and desert scenery. The route then leads to Merzouga, where the dunes of Erg Chebbi gradually appear on the horizon. Arrive in the Sahara region and enjoy the distinctive atmosphere of the desert.
Day 6: Merzouga to Rissani, Todra Gorge and Dades Valley
Leave the Merzouga area and travel towards Rissani, a traditional town known for its market and historic trading heritage. Continue to Tinghir and discover the impressive Todra Gorge, where high cliffs rise above a narrow valley. Enjoy time to admire the natural scenery and explore the accessible parts of the gorge. Continue towards the Dades Valley, passing oasis landscapes, traditional villages and striking rock formations. Arrive in the valley and enjoy its mountain surroundings.
Day 7: Dades Valley, Valley of Roses, Skoura and Ouarzazate
Travel through the Dades region and continue towards the Valley of Roses, known for its rose-growing traditions and local products. Pass through traditional villages and cultivated landscapes before reaching Skoura. Discover the palm oasis, where earthen villages and historic kasbahs stand among the trees. Continue to Ouarzazate, a southern Moroccan town surrounded by desert landscapes and historic settlements. Arrive and enjoy the atmosphere of this important crossroads between the desert and the mountains.
Day 8: Ait Ben Haddou, High Atlas Mountains and Marrakech
Depart Ouarzazate and discover the surroundings of Ait Ben Haddou, a famous fortified village known for its traditional earthen architecture. Walk through its lanes and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Continue across the High Atlas Mountains along the Tizi n Tichka road, with impressive views of peaks, valleys and mountain villages. Stop at suitable viewpoints along the way before descending towards Marrakech. Arrive in the Red City, where your 8-day Casablanca to Marrakech journey ends.
Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for the entire itinerary
- Professional driver
- Fuel and road expenses
- Pickup in Casablanca
- Drop-off in Marrakech
- Transport according to the itinerary
- Stops at accessible viewpoints along the route
Excluded
- Accommodation during the tour
- Meals and drinks
- Local guides in cities and monuments
- Monument and attraction entrance fees
- Optional camel rides and desert activities
- Personal expenses and tips
Frequently asked questions
Does this tour include Chefchaouen?
Yes, the itinerary includes a visit to Chefchaouen before Fes.
How much time is planned for Fes?
One full day is dedicated to discovering the historic city.
Does the route visit the Sahara?
Yes, the tour includes Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Are accommodation and meals included?
No, accommodation, meals and drinks are not included.
Where does the tour finish?
The tour finishes in Marrakech after crossing the High Atlas Mountains.
