Private Casablanca to Merzouga Desert Tour Itinerary

Explore Morocco’s rich history, beautiful landscapes, and the vast Sahara Desert in a 7-day private tour organized by Private Marrakech Trips.

Day 1: Casablanca – Chefchaouen

• Arrival in Casablanca: Pick-up from your hotel or the airport.
• Rabat Visit: Brief stops at key attractions, including the Hassan Tower in Rabat, Morocco’s capital city.
• Drive to Chefchaouen: Continue your journey to the charming blue city.
• Overnight: Stay in a traditional hotel in the Chefchaouen Medina.

Day 2: Explore Chefchaouen

• Morning & Afternoon Free Exploration: Roam the iconic blue-painted alleys, squares, and vibrant markets.
• Visit Highlights:
  • Stalk: The heart of the town.
  • Akshour Falls: A scenic natural wonder nearby.
  • Kasbah Ethnographic Museum: Learn about the city’s history.
  • Al-Swaiqa District: Explore this unique part of the city.
• Overnight: Stay in a traditional riad.

Day 3: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

• Drive to Volubilis: Visit the well-preserved Roman ruins, famous for stunning mosaics dating back to the 3rd century BC.
• Meknes Visit: Explore the Ismaili capital of Morocco, including:
  • Bab Mansour Gate
  • Granaries & Sahrij Souani (historic irrigation system)
  • Mulay Ismail Mausoleum
• Arrive in Fes: Continue your journey to Fes, where you’ll spend the night.
• Overnight: Stay in a luxurious riad in the Medina of Fes.

Day 4: Fes Sightseeing Tour

• Explore Fes el-Bali: The oldest part of Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Key Stops:
  • Al Karaouine Mosque & University: The world’s oldest continually operating educational institution.
  • Madrasa Bouanania
  • Tanneries & Najjarine Fountain
• Visit the Royal Palace and the Jewish Mellah.
• Afternoon Exploration: Visit a pottery cooperative, followed by a panoramic view of Fes.
• Overnight: Return to your riad for another night in Fes.

Day 5: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Merzouga

• Morning Departure: Start the journey south towards the Sahara Desert.
• Ifrane: Stop in “Switzerland of Morocco,” known for its alpine-style architecture.
• Cedar Forest: Visit the famous cedar forest and see Barbary apes.
• Ziz Valley: Enjoy stunning views of the valley and Berber villages as you head to Merzouga.
• Camel Ride: Arrive in Merzouga and embark on a camel trek to witness the sunset over Erg Chebbi dunes.
• Overnight: Spend the night at a well-equipped desert camp with dinner under the stars.

Day 6: Sahara Desert – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

• Sunrise in the Desert: Wake up early for a magical desert sunrise.
• Camel Ride Back: Enjoy a leisurely ride back to the base of the dunes.
• Todra Gorges: Visit one of Morocco’s most impressive canyons, known for its narrow walls and beautiful surroundings.
• Dades Valley: Continue to Dades Valley and witness unique rock formations known as “Monkey Toes.”
• Overnight: Stay in a hotel in the heart of the gorge.

Day 7: Dades Valley – Ait Benhaddou Kasbah – Marrakech

• Dades Valley to Ouarzazate: Travel along the “Way of a Thousand Kasbahs,” perfect for photography stops.
• Kalaat Mgouna: Visit the rose city and buy rosewater products.
• Ouarzazate: Stop at Africa’s Hollywood, where films like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia were shot.
• Ait Benhaddou Kasbah: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a historic kasbah that has appeared in numerous movies, including Game of Thrones.
• Tizi n’Tichka Pass: Cross the High Atlas Mountains and enjoy panoramic views.
• Arrive in Marrakech: End your tour with a drop-off at your hotel in Marrakech.

Tour Information

• Private Guided Tour: Enjoy personalized service with a knowledgeable local guide.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour.
• Accommodation: Stay in handpicked hotels and riads for a blend of comfort and tradition.
• Camel Trek: Experience the desert on camelback, with a stunning sunset and sunrise over the dunes.
• Meals: Enjoy authentic Moroccan meals during your journey, including dinner at the desert camp.