10 Days from Casablanca to Merzouga Desert and Marrakech
Embarking on a 10 days tour from casablanca to the Merzouga Desert and Marrakech offers an enchanting mix of vibrant cities, serene landscapes, and the mystical Sahara. This itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive experience of Morocco’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and architectural wonders.
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca
Start your Moroccan adventure in Casablanca, the economic heart of the country. After settling into your hotel, visit the majestic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, featuring a towering minaret and intricate mosaics.
Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat and Meknes
Travel to Rabat, Morocco’s capital, and explore historical sites like the Oudaias Kasbah and Hassan Tower. Continue to Meknes, a former imperial city known for its grandiose gates and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.
Day 3: Meknes to Volubilis and Fes
Journey to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then head to Fes, Morocco’s cultural and spiritual center. Spend the evening wandering the labyrinthine streets of the old Medina.
Day 4: Exploring Fes
Dedicate the day to exploring the wonders of Fes. Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, the Tanneries, and the Royal Palace. Don’t miss the chance to sample traditional Moroccan dishes in a local riad.
Day 5: Fes to Ifrane and Midelt
Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping at the charming town of Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland.” Continue to Midelt, a town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas ranges.
Day 6: Midelt to Merzouga Desert
Head towards the awe-inspiring Merzouga Desert. Once you arrive, embark on a camel trek to witness a spectacular sunset over the dunes. Spend the night in a traditional Berber camp under the stars.
Day 7: Merzouga to Todra Gorges and Dades Valley
Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the Sahara. Travel to the impressive Todra Gorges for a short hike, then continue to the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes and fortified villages.
Day 8: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou
Journey to Ouarzazate, the gateway to the Sahara, and visit the famous Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a striking example of Moroccan earthen clay architecture, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 9: Ouarzazate to Marrakech
Travel over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass to Marrakech. Explore this vibrant city, visiting landmarks like the Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, and the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
Day 10: Departure from Marrakech
Spend your last day in Morocco shopping for souvenirs in the souks or relaxing in one of the city’s many gardens. Reflect on the memories made before heading to the airport for your departure.
This 10-day journey from Casablanca to the Merzouga Desert and Marrakech offers a deep dive into Morocco’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and landscapes. Each destination unveils a new layer of this complex and beautiful country, leaving you with lasting impressions and a desire to return.
