12 Days / 11 Nights: Grand Moroccan Discovery from Casablanca

An epic private journey through imperial cities, mountain passes, golden deserts, and Atlantic shores.

This 12-day private itinerary is a grand mosaic of Morocco’s most iconic places, from majestic architecture and bustling medinas to silent sand dunes and the serenity of the Atlantic coast. Whether it’s your first time in Morocco or a long-awaited return, this journey offers a comprehensive and luxurious introduction to the country’s cultural richness, natural diversity, and timeless spirit.

Starting in Casablanca and ending where it began, this journey is a perfectly designed loop across the four imperial cities, the Sahara Desert, the High Atlas Mountains, and the charming Atlantic town of Essaouira.

Every day reveals a new landscape, a new flavor, a new story — guided with expertise and delivered with comfort.

Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Welcome to Casablanca – Morocco’s Urban Gateway

Upon your arrival in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and commercial heart, you’ll be welcomed by your private driver and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, begin with a visit to the iconic Hassan II Mosque — the largest mosque in the country and a marvel of modern craftsmanship, perched dramatically above the Atlantic Ocean. Stroll along the Corniche seaside promenade and enjoy a leisurely introduction to the city’s coastal ambiance. Overnight stay in Casablanca.

Day 2: Casablanca – Rabat – Chefchaouen (The Blue Pearl)

After breakfast, begin your road journey north to Rabat, the administrative capital and one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. Here, you’ll explore highlights including the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the striking Hassan Tower, and the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas, overlooking the Bouregreg River. After lunch, continue toward the Rif Mountains to reach the enchanting town of Chefchaouen, known for its pastel-blue facades, mountain air, and peaceful ambiance. Overnight stay in a riad tucked in the medina.

Day 3: The Blue City of Chefchaouen – A Painter’s Dream

Spend the day exploring Chefchaouen at a relaxed pace. Walk through its narrow alleys lined with blue-washed walls and doors — a medina that feels like a living art gallery. Visit the local souks and artisan stalls, take photographs beneath cascading flowerpots and colorful staircases, and stop for traditional lunch in one of its panoramic cafés. In the afternoon, opt for a short hike to the Spanish Mosque, which offers sweeping views of the city and surrounding valleys. Return to your riad for another tranquil evening.

Day 4: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

Leave the Rif mountains behind and head south to explore Volubilis, the most well-preserved Roman site in Morocco. Marvel at its intricate mosaics, archways, and ancient foundations that once marked the empire’s western frontier. Continue to Meknes, the former imperial capital of Sultan Moulay Ismail, where you’ll visit the monumental Bab Mansour, Royal Granaries, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. End the day in Fes, where you’ll settle into a traditional riad in the old city.

Day 5: Full-Day Guided Exploration of Fes

Fes is a cultural and spiritual capital with a maze-like medina dating back over 1,200 years. With a local guide, you’ll delve into its most treasured sites:

• The Royal Palace gates

• The Bou Inania Madrasa

• The Tanneries, where leather-making techniques are centuries old

• The Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University, the oldest in the world

• The Nejjarine Fountain and artisanal quarters
  Also visit the Jewish quarter (Mellah) and ascend to a nearby fortress for a panoramic view over the ancient city. Return to your riad to relax and reflect on a day immersed in tradition and architectural splendor.

Day 6: Fes – Ifrane – Cedars Forest – Midelt – Merzouga (Sahara Desert)

Depart Fes and drive south through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane, known for its alpine-style architecture and clean mountain air, before heading to the Cedar Forests of Azrou, where you may encounter Barbary macaques. After lunch in Midelt, continue through the Ziz Valley, a vast oasis dotted with date palms and traditional ksour. Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi Dunes. Mount your private camel and ride into the desert just as the sun begins to set. Your night will be spent in a luxury desert camp, with dinner, traditional music, and stargazing under the expansive Saharan sky.

Day 7: Desert Discovery – Nomads, Music, and Oases

After sunrise and breakfast, spend the day exploring the Merzouga region by 4×4. Visit:

• A nomadic family, where you’ll enjoy tea and hear stories of desert life

• The village of Khamlia, known for its African heritage and vibrant Gnaoua music

• A historic eyeliner mine, and the seasonal flamingo lake

• A scenic palm grove, ideal for short walks and photography
  Return to your boutique desert hotel for dinner and overnight.

Day 8: Merzouga – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

Travel from the Sahara to the towering Todra Gorges, passing through the town of Rissani, once the heart of Morocco’s ancient Tafilalet kingdom. Visit its bustling market (particularly lively on market days), then continue to Erfoud, known for fossilized marble. After lunch near Todra Canyon, explore the dramatic red cliffs that attract climbers from around the world. End the day in the scenic Dades Valley, famous for its winding roads and unique rock formations. Overnight in a charming guesthouse.

Day 9: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Skoura – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakesh

Drive through Kalaat M’Gouna, the heart of the Valley of Roses, and continue through the Skoura oasis, known for its kasbah-dotted palm groves. Arrive at the legendary Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar whose mudbrick structures have starred in numerous films. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the spectacular Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, descending into Marrakesh by early evening. Settle into your riad in the medina.

Day 10: The Red City – Guided Tour of Marrakesh

Explore the sensory delight that is Marrakesh, with a private guide:

• Visit the opulent Bahia Palace and the mysterious Saadian Tombs

• See the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a jewel of Islamic architecture

• Stroll through the souks, where artisans craft leather, wood, and spices

• Visit the serene Majorelle Garden and the striking Koutoubia Mosque

• End your day at Jemaa el-Fnaa, Marrakesh’s famed square, alive with music, performers, and food stalls

Day 11: Marrakesh – Essaouira

Head west to the breezy port city of Essaouira, stopping along the way to see goats in argan trees. Upon arrival, explore the city’s charming medina, its vibrant fishing port, and the historic Skala ramparts. Discover Essaouira’s artistic soul, whitewashed alleys, and relaxed rhythm. Overnight in a coastal riad.

Day 12: Return to Casablanca – Farewell

On your final day, enjoy a scenic coastal drive back to Casablanca, with stops along the way for panoramic views. Depending on your flight time, a brief city visit or seaside lunch may be possible before your transfer to the airport. Your Moroccan adventure concludes — but the impressions will last forever.

Inclusions & Services

Included:

• Private A/C 4×4 vehicle or luxury minivan

• Professional English / Spanish-speaking driver-guide

• 10 nights in boutique riads and hotels

• 1 night in luxury Sahara desert camp

• Camel trekking experience in Merzouga

• Daily breakfast and 3 dinners (as noted)

• Guided tours in Fes and Marrakesh

• Airport pickup and return

• All fuel, taxes, and local coordination

Not Included:

• International flights

• Lunches and drinks

• Monument entrance fees

• Personal expenses and tips

Good to Know

• This itinerary is fully customizable. We can adjust trip duration, accommodation category, included activities, or routing.

• Pricing varies depending on group size and travel season. Contact us for a detailed quote.

• This tour is privately guided and includes 24/7 support throughout your journey.

• All properties are hand-selected for quality, charm, and service.