9-Day Private Morocco Tour from Casablanca to Desert & Essaouira
Overview
Embark on a 9-day private journey through Morocco’s most enchanting landscapes — from the Atlantic coast to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. Starting in Casablanca, explore the architectural wonder of the Hassan II Mosque before traveling to Rabat, Chefchaouen, and Fes, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and charm.
Venture south through the Atlas Mountains, cedar forests, and Berber villages until the landscape transforms into the vast dunes of Merzouga, where camel rides, desert camps, and star-filled skies await. Continue your adventure through the Todra Gorge, Dades Valley, and the cinematic Ait Benhaddou Kasbah before arriving in Marrakech, the vibrant heart of Morocco.
End your tour with a refreshing coastal escape to Essaouira, known for its breezy charm, blue-and-white medina, and laid-back atmosphere — the perfect finale to a journey that captures Morocco’s spirit of adventure and authenticity.
Tour Plan
Day 1: Casablanca – Rabat – Chefchaouen
Your Morocco adventure begins in Casablanca, where you’ll visit the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Continue to Rabat, the capital city, to explore the Royal Palace, Hassan Tower, and Kasbah of the Udayas. After lunch, journey north through the scenic Rif Mountains to the charming blue city of Chefchaouen, where you’ll spend the night in a traditional riad.
Day 2: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes
After breakfast, enjoy a peaceful morning stroll through the blue-washed alleys of Chefchaouen, taking time to capture its beauty. Later, travel to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before continuing to Meknes, another imperial city known for its monumental gates and palaces. In the evening, arrive in Fes for dinner and overnight in a charming riad.
Day 3: Full-Day Guided Tour of Fes
Spend the day exploring Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital. Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, the Karaouine Mosque, and the colorful tanneries. Wander through the labyrinth of the Medina of Fes el-Bali, one of the world’s oldest and most fascinating markets. After a day of discovery, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner with Andalusian music at your riad.
Day 4: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Erfoud – Merzouga
After breakfast, depart Fes and journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” and in Azrou to visit the cedar forest, home to playful Barbary apes. Continue through Midelt and Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops, before reaching the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga. Enjoy dinner and overnight in a traditional kasbah overlooking the desert.
Day 5: Merzouga Desert Adventure & Camel Trek
Today, explore the mesmerizing Sahara Desert. Visit Khamlia Village to experience traditional Gnawa music, meet nomadic families, and learn about desert life. Optional activities such as quad biking or sandboarding can be arranged. In the afternoon, ride camels across the dunes to your luxury desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner, Berber drumming around the campfire, and a night under the stars.
Day 6: Merzouga – Todgha Gorge – Dades Valley
Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the desert dunes before returning to Merzouga for breakfast. Continue through Rissani, known for its historic souk, and Tinghir, where you’ll visit the breathtaking Todgha Gorge — a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. After lunch, drive to the Dades Valley, where you’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a charming riad with panoramic views.
Day 7: Dades Valley – Skoura – Ait Benhaddou – Marrakech
After breakfast, travel along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing through Kalaa M’gouna (the Valley of Roses) and Skoura’s palm oasis. Stop in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” to visit its film studios and cinema museum. Continue to the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, one of Morocco’s most famous landmarks. In the afternoon, cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260 m) and arrive in Marrakech for overnight stay.
Day 8: Marrakech Sightseeing Tour
Today is dedicated to exploring Marrakech, the “Red City.” Visit the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, the Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and the vibrant Jemaa el-Fna Square, alive with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls. Wander through the colorful souks, visit the Majorelle Garden, or relax in a traditional hammam. Overnight in your riad or hotel.
Day 9: Day Trip to Essaouira – Return to Marrakech
On your final day, travel to the coastal town of Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its whitewashed houses, blue boats, and fortified ramparts. Explore the medina, harbor, and art galleries, or enjoy fresh seafood by the beach. In the afternoon, return to Marrakech, marking the end of your 9-day Morocco tour.
Included/Excluded
- Private air-conditioned transportation with fuel
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation in charming riads and hotels
- One night in a luxury Berber desert camp (with dinner & breakfast)
- Camel ride to and from the desert camp
- Lunches and drinks
- Entrance fees (optional visits)
- Tips and personal expenses
Book Your Trip
Reserve your tour now and experience the beauty, culture, and excitement of our 4×4 adventures. Choose your dates, customize your itinerary, and let us create unforgettable memories for you!