8 Days Desert Trip from Casablanca to Marrakech via Imperial Cities
OVERVIEW of the 8 Days Desert Trip from Casablanca to Marrakech via Imperial Cities:
This 8-day private Morocco tour begins with a pick-up from Casablanca, traveling to Fes, stopping in Rabat, Meknes, and Volubilis along the way. In Fes, you’ll explore its ancient medina, visit the Royal Palace, the Jewish Quarter, and the famous tanneries. The tour continues through the Middle Atlas to Merzouga, with stops in Ifrane, Azrou, and Midelt. In the desert, enjoy a 4×4 excursion, a camel trek to the dunes, and a night in a desert camp. The journey continues with visits to Todra Gorges, Dades Gorges, Ait Ben Haddou, and Marrakech, where you’ll explore its historic sites and vibrant souks before your transfer to the airport.
Highlights of 8 Days Desert Trip from Casablanca to Marrakech via Imperial Cities:
- Visit Rabat, Volubilis, and Meknes on the way to Fes.
- Explore Fes medina, Quaraouine mosque, and tanneries.
- Cross the Middle Atlas to Merzouga, with scenic stops in Ifrane and Ziz Valley.
- Enjoy a desert 4×4 excursion, camel trek, and sunset at Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Hike the Todra Gorges and explore the Dades Valley.
- Visit Ait Ben Haddou and Tizi n’Tichka pass on the way to Marrakech.
- Discover Marrakech’s historical sites and lively Jamma el Fna square.
Detailed Itinerary: 8 Days Desert Trip from Casablanca to Marrakech via Imperial Cities
Day 1 : Casablanca – Fes
Day 2: Fes Sightseeing
Today, our private Casablanca tour continues with a visit to the Medina (the old city). We walk inside its alleys, and we visit the Jewish Quarter and the Royal Palace. We will visit the famous tanneries in Fez, worth experiencing. Then we see the Quaraouine mosque, which is considered the 1st university in the world. We stay overnight in a local riad/hotel.
Day 3: Fes – Midelt – Rissani – Merzouga
Today, we travel towards Ifrane, referred to as “the Switzerland of Morocco”. We may stop at Azrou, a Berber village in the cedar forest. We will have lunch in Midelt, and afterwards, we’ll drive along the Ziz Valley. We’ll pass through a few Berber villages to reach Erfoud and then Rissani. Then we arrive at Merzouga desert, where we stay in the local riad/hotel.
Day 4: Merzouga (camel trek & Overnight)
After breakfast on the fourth-day on this 8 Days Desert Trip from Casablanca to Marrakech via Imperial Cities, we start exploring the desert of Merzouga by 4×4 vehicle. We will visit Khamlia village, where we meet local Gnawa people, and here we will learn about their famous traditional music. We continue our private Casablanca tour by visiting Nomad families living in the desert. Then we will drive to Rissani, a fortified village. Here we explore a traditional souk where locals sell spices, vegetables, and clothes. We drive back to Merzouga, and in the afternoon, we will ride camels to the desert. We will be guided by an experienced camel guide to explore the highest dunes in Morocco. We may walk to the high dune to watch the sunset over the dunes. After we reach the desert camp, we will enjoy dinner at a campfire with Berber music, and we stay overnight in the desert camp.
Day 5 : Merzouga Desert – Todra Gorges – Dades Gorges
Early in the morning, we will watch the sunrise in the desert of Merzouga, and then we will ride camels back to the village of Merzouga. After breakfast, we leave for Rissani. We drive towards Tinghir, and then we explore Todra Gorges, which is the highest and narrowest Gorge in Morocco. Here we may hike within the amazing valley, and after lunch, we will continue our private Morocco tour passing the Dades Valley. Here we stay in Dades Gorges in a traditional local riad/hotel with dinner and breakfast.
Day 6 : Dades gorges – Ait ben Haddou – Tizi N’tichka – Marrakech
Continuing our 8 Days Desert Trip from Casablanca to Marrakech via Imperial Cities through the Dades valley towards Ouarzazate, passing the route of the 1000’s Kasbahs. We will stop at Kalaat Mgouna, which is the centre of Rose Valley. Here we may purchase rosewater, which is a local product made from roses. We will visit the Ouarzazatte movie studio, and also the local Kasbah in the city. We continue to the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, built by one of the last Berber chieftains. Our trip continues passing the Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass at 2260 m. Then we arrive in Marrakech, where our private Morocco tour ends.
Day 7: Marrakech Sightseeing
Today, our private 8 Days Desert Trip from Casablanca to Marrakech via Imperial Cities continues exploring Marrakech, “the red city of Morocco”. We will visit the most important sites of historical and cultural interest. It will include the Majorelle Gardens, the Koutoubia Tower, the Saadian tombs, and the Bahia Palace. We will explore the famous Jamma el Fna square, and in the afternoon, we will have a free program.
Day 8: Marrakech – transfer to the airport
On the last day of our private Morocco 8 Days Desert Trip from Casablanca to Marrakech via Imperial Cities, we explore the Marrakech souk, and then we drive you to the airport.
included :
- Transport in 4×4 car with Air condition
- Private driver/English speaking guide
- Accommodation (dinner and breakfast) in hotels
- Camel ride through the desert
- Sleep in desert tent
excluded :
- Airline tickets
- Noon meals
- Drinks
- Entrance fees
Gallery – 8 Days Desert Trip from Casablanca to Marrakech via Imperial Cities
Map – 8 Days Desert Trip from Casablanca to Marrakech via Imperial Cities
Know Before You Go – 8 Days Desert Trip from Casablanca to Marrakech via Imperial Cities
Best Time to Take This Tour
This 8-day journey can be enjoyed year-round, but the most comfortable months are March to May and September to November, when temperatures are pleasant across the imperial cities and the Sahara Desert.
Summer (June–August) can be very hot in desert areas, while winter nights in the Sahara (December–February) can be cold, especially in Merzouga.
Weather & Packing Tips
- You’ll experience different climates during this tour, from coastal Casablanca to the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert.
- Pack light, breathable clothing for daytime and warm layers for desert nights.
- Comfortable walking shoes are essential for Medina visits and historical sites.
- Bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) year-round.
- A small backpack is useful for day outings and desert excursions.
Physical Level & Travel Pace
- This tour is designed at a moderate pace, suitable for most travelers.
- Expect some walking on uneven surfaces, especially in old medinas and kasbahs.
- Long drives are balanced with scenic stops and cultural visits.
- No special fitness level is required, but travelers should be comfortable spending time on the road.
Cultural Etiquette & Local Customs
- Morocco is welcoming and diverse, with deep-rooted traditions.
- Modest clothing is recommended in religious sites and traditional neighborhoods.
- Always ask permission before photographing locals, especially in rural areas.
- Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimal.
- Learning a few words in Arabic or French is appreciated and often rewarded with warm smiles.
Currency, Payments & Tipping
- The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
- Cash is essential in souks, small towns, and desert areas; ATMs are available in major cities.
- Credit cards are accepted in many hotels and restaurants, but not everywhere.
- Tipping is customary for guides, drivers, and service staff, though always optional.
Connectivity & Internet Access
- Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and riads, but connection quality may vary.
- Mobile coverage is generally good, even in desert regions.
- Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival is inexpensive and convenient.
Food, Water & Dietary Considerations
- Moroccan cuisine is rich and flavorful.
- Inform your guide in advance if you have dietary restrictions or allergies.
- Bottled water is recommended throughout the tour.
- Moroccan meals can be filling, and light lunches are common during travel days.
Health & Safety
- Morocco is considered a safe destination for travelers.
- Keep personal belongings secure in busy areas.
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
- Basic pharmacies are widely available in cities and towns.
Luggage & Desert Travel Notes
- Soft or medium-sized luggage is more practical than hard suitcases.
- Overnight desert stays are well organized, but pack essentials separately for convenience.
- Power banks are useful, as charging options may be limited in remote areas.
