9 days Casablanca desert tour. Journey through the heart of Morocco. Starting from the vibrant city of Casablanca and culminating in the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert. This carefully curated tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion. Breathtaking landscapes, and unique experiences, ensuring a truly memorable adventure. From the historic medinas of Marrakech and the ancient kasbahs of Ait Ben Haddou to the towering gorges of Dades and Todra. Each day brings new wonders. You’ll traverse the majestic Haut Atlas mountains. Explore the serene coastal town of Essaouira, and experience the magical Sahara Desert in Merzouga. Whether you’re riding camels over golden dunes, wandering through bustling markets. Or enjoying traditional Berber hospitality under the starry desert sky, this tour promises an enriching and diverse Moroccan experience.
9 days Casablanca desert tour
Day 1: Casablanca to Marrakech
Your adventure begins in Casablanca, the cosmopolitan heart of Morocco. After soaking up the sights and sounds of this bustling city, you set off on a scenic drive to Marrakech. The trip offers a glimpse of Morocco’s diverse landscapes. Ranging from the urban dynamism of Casablanca to the historic charm of Marrakech. Upon arrival, you can spend the evening exploring the medina. Perhaps enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
Day 2: High Atlas, Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate
Departing from Marrakech, you will travel through the magnificent High Atlas Mountains. A journey filled with breathtaking panoramas and winding roads. Your first major stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou. An ancient fortified village that has served as the setting for many famous films. After exploring this emblematic site, you will continue to Ouarzazate. Often nicknamed the “city of cinema”, where you can visit the Kasbah of Taourirt and the famous film studios.
Day 3: Dades Gorges, Todra Gorges, Erfoud and Merzouga
Leaving Ouarzazate, you will pass through the picturesque Dadès Gorges, known for their spectacular rock formations and picturesque landscapes. Continuing, you will visit the Todra Gorges, famous for their imposing canyon walls. The journey then takes you to Erfoud, a town known for its fossils and as a gateway to the Sahara. From there, you will head towards Merzouga, where the vast sand dunes of Erg Chebbi await you. You can admire the sunset over the desert during a camel trek. And spend the night in a traditional Berber camp under the stars.
Day 4: Merzouga
A full day in Merzouga allows you to immerse yourself in the magic of the Sahara. You can start with a sunrise over the dunes, followed by various activities like sandboarding. A visit to a local nomadic family, or a 4×4 tour to explore the surrounding desert landscape. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Berber dinner accompanied by music and dancing around a campfire, before another night at your desert camp.
Day 5: Rissani, Alnif, Tazarine and Zagora
After breakfast in the desert, you will travel to Rissani, a town known for its bustling market and its historical importance as a caravan trading post. Continuing your journey, you will pass through Alnif and Tazarine, small towns offering a glimpse of Moroccan rural life. Your destination for the day is Zagora, a town on the edge of the Sahara famous for its iconic “Timbuktu 52 Days” sign, marking the historic camel caravan route to Timbuktu.
Day 6: Agdz, Ouarzazate and return to Marrakech
From Zagora, the route takes you through the lush Draa Valley to Agdz, known for its superb palm groves and ancient kasbahs. Continuing, you will return to Ouarzazate for a brief visit before returning to Marrakech. The journey offers a final opportunity to appreciate the varied landscapes of southern Morocco. Once in Marrakech, enjoy a relaxing evening in this bustling city, perhaps revisiting the medina or dining at a local restaurant.
Day 7: Marrakech to Essaouira
Leaving Marrakech behind, you will head towards the coastal city of Essaouira. This laid-back town, with its charming medina, bustling fishing port and windswept beaches, offers a stark contrast to the inland towns you’ve visited so far. Spend the afternoon exploring historic city walls, artisan shops, and sampling fresh seafood by the sea. The relaxed atmosphere and cool ocean breeze provide a refreshing change of pace.
Day 8: Essaouira
A full day in Essaouira allows you to delve deeper into its unique charm. Stroll the narrow streets of the medina, visit the Skala de la Ville with its impressive sea views and relax on the beach. You can also explore the local art scene, visit the different galleries or take a kitesurfing lesson. The day can be as active or leisurely as you wish, soaking up the coastal ambiance.
Day 9: Essaouira to Casablanca airport
On your last day, you will leave the tranquil beauty of Essaouira behind and return to Casablanca. The journey gives you time to reflect on your Moroccan adventure as you cross diverse landscapes one last time. Arriving in Casablanca, you will head to the airport for your departure, filled with memories of Morocco’s rich culture, stunning landscapes and warm hospitality. The end of 9 days Casablanca desert tour.
