8 Days Tour from Casablanca: THE HISTORIC FES, THE GREAT SAHARA DESERT & THE VIBRANT MARRAKECH
OVERVIEW of 8 Days Tour from Casablanca
This 7-day tour through Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultural wonders, beginning in the coastal city of Agadir and ending in the heart of the Sahara Desert. This immersive tour combines the serene Atlantic charm of Essaouira, the imperial majesty of Marrakech, the historical depth of ancient kasbahs, and the golden dunes of Merzouga.
Wander the whitewashed medina of Essaouira, soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech’s souks and squares, and marvel at the architectural splendor of Telouet and Ait Ben Haddou. Venture deep into the Atlas Mountains and the dramatic Dades and Todra Gorges before experiencing a magical desert night under the stars in a luxury Berber camp.
With a mix of guided tours, free time to explore at your own pace, and thrilling desert adventures like camel trekking or 4×4 rides, this tour is ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded Moroccan experience full of contrasts, from ocean breezes to desert winds, bustling medinas to peaceful mountain valleys.
Day 1: Arrival in Agadir – Transfer to Essaouira
Upon arrival at Agadir Airport or pick-up from your hotel, your private driver will greet you and begin the journey north toward the coastal town of Essaouira. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive along the Atlantic coastline as your Moroccan adventure begins. Once you arrive in Essaouira, you’ll be transferred directly to your accommodation where you can settle in for a restful evening by the sea. Overnight in Essaouira.
Day 2: Leisure Day in Essaouira
Wake up to a delightful breakfast in your traditional riad, then spend the day uncovering the charms of Essaouira at your own pace. Wander through the medina, visit the open art galleries and local artisan studios, or head down to the vibrant fish market where fresh seafood is grilled to order. For a touch of adventure, take a stroll along the beach at low tide to find the weathered ruins of Borj El Baroud. If you’re up for it, hop on a boat to Mogador Island, known for its nesting population of Eleonora’s falcons. Essaouira’s breezy beaches also offer thrilling watersports like surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking, and bodyboarding. Prefer something laid-back? Sip mint tea and enjoy Moroccan sweets at a seaside café in Place Moulay Hassan, watching the Atlantic waves roll in. Overnight in Essaouira.
Day 3: Essaouira to Marrakech
After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to the red-walled city of Marrakech. The drive offers scenic views of Morocco’s changing landscapes as you move inland from the coast to the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Upon arrival in Marrakech, you’ll have free time to explore or relax at your accommodation. Overnight stay in Marrakech.
Day 4: Guided Exploration of Marrakech
After breakfast at your riad, meet your expert local guide for an in-depth walking tour of Marrakech’s historic medina. Navigate the narrow alleyways, hidden courtyards, vibrant souks, and peaceful gardens that form the soul of this ancient city. The tour includes highlights such as the Koutoubia Mosque, whose minaret dominates the skyline, and the legendary Jemaa el-Fna Square, where street performers, storytellers, and food vendors fill the space with life after sunset. Following the guided visit, you’ll have free time to relax or perhaps enjoy a rejuvenating hammam experience. Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 5: Marrakech – Telouet – Ait Ben Haddou – Boumalne Dades
Your journey into Morocco’s dramatic landscapes begins as you leave Marrakech and ascend into the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, marvel at picturesque Berber villages built into the hillsides. You’ll first visit the lesser-known but historically significant Telouet Kasbah, once the opulent home of the powerful Glaoui clan. Continue to the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar made famous by Hollywood blockbusters such as Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, and Game of Thrones. After lunch near the kasbah, the drive continues past Skoura’s palm groves and the fragrant Valley of Roses before reaching Boumalne Dades. Dinner and overnight in a charming guesthouse nestled within the Dades Valley.
Day 6: Boumalne Dades – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert
Begin the day with breakfast, then head out through the dramatic Dades Valley toward the Todra Gorge, a towering canyon known for its sheer limestone cliffs and flowing river. Spend time exploring or simply enjoying the natural beauty before continuing on to Erfoud and Rissani, two desert towns with deep cultural roots and vibrant marketplaces. As you reach Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara, prepare for an unforgettable experience. Either by camel or 4×4, you’ll venture into the golden Erg Chebbi dunes. After enjoying a spectacular sunset over the sands, settle into a luxury desert camp where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars, complete with Berber music, storytelling, and drumming around a crackling fire. Overnight in a private tent surrounded by the vast silence of the desert.
Day 7: Merzouga – Alnif – Tazarine – Agdez – Ait Saoun – Marrakech
After breakfast in the camp, depart from the desert and begin your scenic return to Marrakech. Travel through the rugged landscapes of Alnif, Tazarine, and Agdez, passing palm oases, rocky plateaus, and picturesque kasbahs along the way. Cross the winding mountain roads of the Ait Saoun Pass before descending into the plains surrounding Marrakech. Upon arrival in the city, your driver will assist you with your luggage and ensure a comfortable drop-off at your accommodation. End of the tour.
- What's Included
- Private Transport AC Minibus with English speaking guide/driver.
- Pick up & Drop off at your accommodation.
- 1 night at the desert camp (Private tents).
- Camel Trekking in the Sahara Merzouga.
- Dinner & Breakfast.
- What's Excluded
- Lunch.
- Drinks.
- Entrance fees, other personal expenses and gratuities.
