Morocco Kasbahs and Desert 8 Days

Day 1 – Arrival in Casablanca

Arrive in Casablanca at any time and begin your Moroccan adventure.

There is no scheduled sightseeing included in Casablanca, so travelers who want to discover the city are encouraged to arrive a day early. Use the extra time to explore the medina, Atlantic coastline and distinctive Art Deco architecture.

The spectacular Hassan II Mosque is one of Casablanca’s major landmarks and is well worth visiting if your schedule allows. Guided visits are required for entry, and opening times can change, particularly during Ramadan.

Overnight: Casablanca

Day 2 – Casablanca to Fès via Volubilis

Leave Casablanca and travel inland through Morocco’s rolling countryside toward the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis.

Enjoy a guided visit of this impressive archaeological site and discover ancient columns, mosaics, streets and architectural remains dating back to the Roman period. Volubilis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers an excellent introduction to Morocco’s layered history.

Continue to Fès, one of Morocco’s most fascinating cultural destinations. After arrival, enjoy some free time to settle in and begin exploring. You may choose to experience a traditional Moroccan hammam or simply discover the local streets at your own pace.

Overnight: Fès

Day 3 – Explore Fès

Spend the day exploring Fès with a local guide.

Enter the historic Fès medina and discover its maze of narrow streets, traditional souks, artisan workshops and historic architecture. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and remains an important center of Moroccan craftsmanship and daily life.

Explore the artisan quarters, sample local specialties and discover some of the traditional crafts for which Fès is famous. You will also have the opportunity to view the city’s renowned leather tannery from above.

The afternoon is free to explore independently, shop for Moroccan handicrafts or relax in one of the city’s traditional cafés.

Overnight: Fès

Day 4 – Fès to Merzouga and the Sahara Desert

Today the journey heads south toward the Sahara.

Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains and across changing landscapes as you make your way toward Merzouga, the gateway to the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes.

After arriving at your desert accommodation, enjoy traditional Moroccan mint tea before preparing for your camel ride.

In the late afternoon, climb onto your camel and journey into the golden dunes as the sun begins to set. Watch the changing colors of the Sahara landscape and experience one of the most memorable moments of your Morocco desert tour.

You can also learn how to wrap a traditional desert turban before returning to your accommodation.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner followed by an atmospheric night around the campfire. Listen to stories about life in the region and enjoy traditional music and drumming beneath the stars.

Overnight: Merzouga

Day 5 – Sahara Sunrise and Todra Gorge

Rise early to watch the sunrise over the Sahara dunes.

After breakfast, leave Merzouga and continue through the spectacular landscapes of southeastern Morocco toward Todra Gorge.

The gorge is surrounded by enormous rock walls and a beautiful green oasis of palm trees. Take time to explore the area, enjoy a walk, relax beside the river or sample local Amazigh specialties.

Travelers looking for additional desert adventure can arrange an optional 4×4 excursion around the Merzouga dunes.

Overnight: Todra Gorge

Day 6 – Todra Gorge to Aït Ben Haddou

Continue along southern Morocco’s famous Route of 1000 Kasbahs.

Travel through valleys, mountain landscapes and desert scenery toward Ouarzazate, a town closely connected with Morocco’s film industry.

Continue to Aït Ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s most recognizable examples of traditional earthen architecture.

Explore the historic fortified village and admire its distinctive buildings, narrow passages and spectacular setting. Aït Ben Haddou is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the essential cultural stops on this Morocco kasbah tour.

Food lovers can also choose an optional Moroccan tagine cooking class for an introduction to the country’s famous culinary traditions.

Overnight: Aït Ben Haddou

Day 7 – Aït Ben Haddou to Marrakech

Leave Aït Ben Haddou and travel toward Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains.

The route crosses the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass at approximately 2,260 meters above sea level. Enjoy changing views of mountain valleys, rugged peaks and traditional villages throughout the journey.

Arrive in Marrakech around lunchtime and spend the remainder of the day exploring at your own pace.

Visit the historic medina, wander through the colorful souks or head to Djemaa el Fna as the square comes alive in the evening with musicians, performers and traditional food stalls.

Overnight: Marrakech

Day 8 – Departure from Marrakech

Your Morocco Kasbahs & Desert adventure comes to an end today.

Depart Marrakech at any time according to your onward travel arrangements.

If you have a later departure, you can pre-book an optional hot-air-balloon experience and watch sunrise over Marrakech and the surrounding countryside. Make sure you allow sufficient time to return before your onward journey.