Morocco desert tour collage

Tour details

(28 Reviews)
From $750
  • Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
  • Start: Casablanca
  • End: Marrakech or Casablanca
  • Tour Type: Private (Customizable)
  • Availability: Year-round

Tour Overview

This 9-day Morocco tour, starting in Casablanca, lets you experience the country's very best at a leisurely pace.

You will first spend time in Casablanca, enjoying the city's modern attractions, before moving on to Rabat, Morocco's beautiful capital. Next, the itinerary moves northward to Chefchaouen, known as the Blue City, with its laid-back vibe, winding alleyways, and bustling markets.

Then, you will travel back in time to the Roman ruins of Volubilis and visit Meknes, another of Morocco's imperial cities, before settling in Fes, the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, where you will discover its historic Medina and age-old traditions.

Traveling southward, you will pass through Ifrane (often called Morocco's Switzerland) and drive through the stunning Ziz Valley to the famed area of Merzouga, where your camel will take you deep into the Sahara Desert. You will spend the night in a desert camp under the stars, waking up to a truly breathtaking sunrise over the dunes.

After leaving Merzouga, the adventure continues with a trip through the Todra Gorges and Dades Gorges, where you'll see fantastic rock formations. Then you'll go to the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. After that, you will cross the High Atlas Mountains to get to your final stop, Marrakech.

Lastly, you will head back to Casablanca with unforgettable memories of Morocco's cities, mountains, desert, and warm hospitality.

Detailed 9-Day Itinerary

01

Casablanca → Rabat → Rif Mountains →Chefchaouen

The 9-day Morocco itinerary begins with a warm welcome upon arrival at Mohammed V International Airport or at your hotel and includes transportation from the airport to your hotel(s). On the first day, we will spend some time at one of Morocco's best-loved sites, the Hassan II Mosque, and then move on to Rabat (Morocco's capital). This beautiful capital city has much to offer tourists, with many historical sites such as the Hassan Tower and the Kasbah of the Udayas that reflect its rich architectural heritage.

After lunch in Rabat, the tour continues to Chefchaouen, a beautiful town in the stunning Rif Mountains of Northern Morocco. You will arrive at your charming hotel/riad, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful environment. A lovely way to end an exciting day of exploration!

  • Drive: Casablanca to Chefchaouen - approx. 372 km (around 5-6 hours)
02

DAY 02 - Chefchaouen → Ouazzane → Rif Mountains → Meknes → Fes

After breakfast, you will have spare time to explore the blue pearl of Chefchaouen. Discover the old Medina, as it will give you the sense of walking in the sea. Then, move to the Kasbah Museum, built in the 18th century, well constructed, and surrounded by gardens.

Next, visit Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the cobbled square where many beautiful local cafes are situated. Additionally, it is surrounded by many buildings constructed by Jewish refugees. Furthermore, in Chefchaouen, you will find stunning waterfalls, such as Ras El Maa.

In the afternoon, you will leave your riad in Chefchaouen and drive towards Fes. First, we will pass by Ouazzane and arrive at the Roman ruins.

Upon arrival at Volubilis (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), you will see the most wonderful mosaic pillars and walls dating to the 3rd century BC. After an escorted tour with your local guide to learn more about the history of the Roman Empire, we will drive to Meknes.

Another imperial city in Morocco, Meknes, is the Ismaili metropolis. During your visit to Meknes, you will witness the magnificent Bab Mansour Gate and the Sahrij Souani Granary, a plantation and irrigation facility. Furthermore, you will visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.

Finally, we will continue to Fes; your driver will drop you off at your riad, where you will spend the night.

  • Drive: Chefchaouen to Fes - approx. 228 km (around 4-5 hours)
03

DAY 03 - Fes Guided tour

After breakfast at your riad, your guide will meet you and lead you on a guided tour of Fes. The tour comprises a walking and driving part to make the most of the day.

You will see the vast seven gates of the Royal Palace, the Mellah (the Jewish quarter, which was an important commercial area), a pottery cooperative where you can observe the intricate and fascinating work involved in producing some of Morocco’s finest craftsmanship, and an incredible panoramic viewpoint of the entire Medina. Then, you will go into the Medina for a delicious Fes-style lunch.

After you have a chance to see some of the many historical landmarks of the Medina, you will head towards the Jewish quarter of the city, also known as the Mellah. Here you will learn more about the rich history of the Jewish people of Fes. Lastly, you will ascend an ancient fortress for a stunning view of Fes and the Medina.

At the end of your visit to Fes, you will return to your riad and prepare for your next adventure. Overnight in the same riad.

04

DAY 04 - Fes → Ifrane → Middle Atlas Mountains → Ziz Valley → Merzouga Desert

Once you have finished your breakfast, it will be time for your unforgettable journey to the Sahara. From Fez, we will head south toward the amazing desert of Merzouga. Midway through our drive, we will stop in the beautiful town of Ifrane to stretch our legs and relax with a lovely view.

As we continue our trip south, we will drive through the Middle Atlas, stopping along the way for views of a cedar forest and perhaps seeing Barbary apes in their natural surroundings. After that, we will stop for lunch at one of the restaurants we find along the way, before continuing to the Ziz Valley, known for its lush palm-tree oases.

In the afternoon, we will arrive in the desert, riding a camel across the beautiful sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. While we are riding our camels, we will stop and watch the sunset over the dunes from the top of one of them. After watching the sunset over the dunes, we will arrive at our desert camp.

When we arrive at the camp, you will be escorted to your private tent, which has its own bathroom where you can relax and freshen up after a long day. Then you will enjoy a delicious meal that gives you a taste of local food, before spending time sitting around a warm fire under the stars. Our camp staff will entertain you with drumming and traditional Berber Music while you watch some of our staff perform and encourage you to learn to play the drums.

  • Drive: Fes to Merzouga - approx. 495 km (around 7-8 hours)
05

DAY 05 - Merzouga → Rissani → Todra Gorge → Dades Gorge

Today, we recommend waking up early to watch the sunrise over Erg Chebbi, then having breakfast, and then your journey back to Merzouga to experience nature's beauty by camel or 4x4. Your driver will meet with you and drive to the Dades Gorge.

On the way to Dades Gorge, you will have the opportunity to visit several sites, such as the Rissani market, where you can attend the local markets on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays (market days). Discover the vibrant atmosphere and the unique products that sellers and buyers exchange.

You will also enjoy a beautiful walk through Todra Gorge, a stunning area of towering red cliffs that offers spectacular views of the winding, cascading Todra River. Take the time to appreciate this unique and peaceful location, and take home lasting memories of nature's beauty from Todra Gorge.

As you make your way to Dades Gorge, take a moment to admire the fantastic rock formations resembling monkeys’ fingers. After a full day of experiences, you will arrive at a small hotel offering comfortable, peaceful accommodations for the night.

  • Drive: Merzouga to Boumalne Dades - approx. 196 km (around 4-6 hours)
06

DAY 06 - Dades Valley → Ait Benhaddou Kasbah → High Atlas Mountains → Marrakech

After breakfast, we will drive towards Ouarzazate, also known as the "Gateway to the Desert" and the "Hollywood of Africa." While there, you will have the option of visiting Atlas Studios, Morocco's largest film studio, which provides an excellent opportunity to see famous film sets and learn about how films are made.

After visiting the Studios, we will proceed to Ait Ben Haddou, where you will explore the famous Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has featured in many films, including "The Gladiator" and "Lawrence of Arabia." While there, take your time to discover the exceptional architecture of the Kasbah, and enjoy the magnificent decorations and details throughout your time spent there!

After an excellent lunch at a local restaurant, we will cross the High Atlas Mountains, stopping along the way to take in breathtaking views. Upon arrival in Marrakech late in the afternoon, you will spend the night at a lovely riad, and we will enjoy a relaxing end to an incredible journey!

  • Drive: Boumalne Dades to Marrakech - approx. 350 km (around 5-6 hours)
07

DAY 07 - Marrakech Guided Tour

Kick off your day with breakfast at your riad so you're ready to enjoy an intimate experience of Marrakech with a local, friendly guide. Not only will they share stories about popular attractions such as Jemaa El Fna (marketplace), the Bahia Palace, the Mausoleum of Saadian, Ben Youssef Madrasa, and Koutoubia Mosque, but you will also learn some interesting facts about these places.

After lunch, you can see the contemporary side of Marrakech and visit the beautiful grounds of the Majorelle Gardens. Alternatively, you could relax back at the riad before continuing your exploration of the city.

Late in the day, stroll to the Jemaa El Fna Square and sit back on one of the many charming rooftop patios that overlook the square while sipping on a refreshing beverage. As you enjoy the vibrant culture and watch the magnificent sunset over Marrakech, take a moment to enjoy a nice dinner before heading back to your riad to rest for the evening.

08

DAY 08 - Marrakech → Essaouira

We will be taking a scenic drive from Marrakech to Essaouira today. Essaouira is a colorful beach town built by the Portuguese in the 15th century, and it has everything you could want from a vacation town. Relaxing on beautiful sandy beaches or exploring the bustling souks of the UNESCO-listed Medina and the artisan workshops, Essaouira guarantees a wonderful time.

The Medina of Essaouira, with its beautiful blue doors and window frames, is a UNESCO-listed site and is easily accessible through any of the main city gates. There are no wrong turns when entering the Medina, and once you join, you will find yourself standing on a beautiful oceanfront beach. There are plenty of cafes with relaxing terraces, each offering fantastic ocean views.

As you walk through the Medina, you will see and hear the many artisans working in their shops and the many workshops where you can see the woodcarving process. Essaouira is a tapestry of creativity, history, and beauty along the coast, and each moment here is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

  • Drive: Marrakech to Essaouira - approx. 179 km (around 3 hours)
09

DAY 09 - Essaouira → Transfer to Casablanca Airport

Get ready for a new day of adventure as your journey of exploration and discovery in Morocco continues from the beach town of Essaouira to the bustling city of Casablanca, where you will end the day at the airport.

Enjoy your last moments in Essaouira by continuing to explore the inviting beaches or by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina to experience the energy of the vibrant market and shop for treasures in the artisan boutiques.

On the drive to Casablanca, you will see how the landscape changes. This four-and-a-half-hour drive will be pleasant, with shifting scenery and diverse Moroccan landscapes, offering beautiful sights as you are transported to Casablanca, where your 9-day itinerary in Morocco concludes with a drop-off at the airport.

  • Drive: Essaouira to Casablanca – approx. 370 km (around 4 hours 25 mins)

What's Included & Excluded

  • Pickup from the airport or your hotel in Casablanca
  • Private, comfortable, air-conditioned transportation (4x4, van, or minibus depending on group size)
  • A Knowledgeable English-speaking driver (optional English-speaking guide available)
  • Guided city tour in Fes
  • 7 nights of accommodation with daily breakfast
  • 1 night in a Sahara desert camp
  • Dinners at the desert camp and at your Dades Gorge accommodation
  • Camel trekking experience in the Sahara
  • Sandboarding at the desert camp
  • Lunches throughout the tour
  • Dinners in Chefchaouen and Fes
  • Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
  • Entrance fees to monuments and historical sites
  • Optional tips for guides and drivers

Accommodation Options by Night

Carefully selected lodgings ensure comfort and authenticity throughout the tour. Accommodations may be adjusted based on availability, and upgrades are available upon request.

  • Night 1 - 2 – Chefchaouen:
  • Standard: Riad Casa Hassan / Riad Hicham – Cozy riads with traditional decor and excellent locations for exploring the charming blue alleys of Chefchaouen.
  • Superior: Dar Echchaouen / Riad Lina & Spa – Elegant accommodations with panoramic terraces, spa amenities, and a relaxing atmosphere at the foot of the Rif Mountains.
  • Night 3 – 4 Fes:
  • Standard: Riad Damia / Riad la Clé de Fes / Riad le Perle de la Medina – Charming traditional riads offering authentic Moroccan decor and warm hospitality.
  • Superior: Riad Salam / Palais Houyam – Elegant riads with refined interiors, rooftop terraces, and personalized service for a comfortable stay in the heart of the Medina.
  • Night 5 – Merzouga Desert Camp:
  • Standard: Comfortable Berber tents with private beds, private bathrooms, and traditional Moroccan dinner and breakfast included.
  • Superior: Luxury desert camp with en-suite tents, hot showers, air conditioning (on request), and candlelit dinners under the stars.
  • Night 6 – Dades Valley:
  • Standard: Hotel Babylon / Hotel Panorama / Riad Villa Dades – Comfortable accommodations with authentic decor and scenic valley views.
  • Superior: Kasbah Xaluca Dades / Ksar Sultan / La Perle Du Dades – Refined kasbahs with pools, spa treatments, and magnificent views of the Dades Gorges and rock formations.
  • Night 7 - 8 – Marrakech:
  • Standard: Riad Merzouga / Riad Aslal / Riad Bijoux / Riad Dar Silsila – Boutique riads in the Medina with traditional Moroccan charm and warm.
  • Superior: La Maison Arabe / Les Jardins de la Koutoubia – Prestigious riads and hotels with spa facilities, pools, and fine dining in prime Medina locations.

Pricing & Group Rates

  • 2 People €1080 per person
  • 4 People €850 per person
  • 6+ People €620 per person
  • Custom Pricing Available for solo travelers, families, or larger groups

Route Map

Map location of Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

Book your 9-day Morocco tour today

Why Book With Us?

  • Private Morocco Tours with Local Expert Guides
  • Comfortable & Air-Conditioned 4x4 Vehicles
  • Authentic Desert & Cultural Experiences
  • Flexible Itineraries Tailored to You
  • 24/7 Reliable Support Throughout Your Journey

Have a Question?

Our team is ready to help you design the perfect Morocco tour. Contact us for inquiries about private tours, Sahara Desert excursions, or travel tips.

Reviews & Testimonials

What our travelers say about their experiences

Perfect 9-Day Casablanca to Marrakech

"My partner and I had a wonderful 9-day private tour with Ibrahim, and we couldn’t recommend him enough! Starting in Casablanca, we traveled to Chefchaouen, Fes, the Merzouga desert, the Dades and Todra Gorges, Marrakech, Essaouira, and finally ended in Casablanca. The itinerary was well-planned, and each stop felt like a new adventure. Ibrahim was fantastic—he’s a skilled driver and an excellent guide. He speaks fluent English and Spanish, which makes communicating so easy. He answered all our questions, shared great tips, and went above and beyond to ensure our comfort. If you’re planning this trip, definitely ask for Ibrahim. You’ll be in the best hands!"
Sylvia H Green smiling

David G

California, USA

Best 9-Day Sahara & Cities Tour

"Just finished an amazing nine-day private tour from Casablanca to Marrakech. Our driver/guide, Idir, was fantastic! We visited Chefchaouen, where the buildings are painted blue; Fes with its busy medina and a great local guide; the ruins of Volubilis; and camels trekking through the Erg Chebbi of Merzouga with a fantastic overnight stay in a luxury camp under the stars. Idir was an excellent driver, safely navigating every twist and turn while sharing interesting and authentic stories along the way. The riads were also very well chosen, and he kept up with our children at their own pace throughout the entire trip. Our visit to Morocco was simply perfect, and we highly recommend booking your trip through Morocco Camel Trekking!"
Gordon D Novak portrait

Sarah & Family

from monteral, Canada

Unforgettable 9 Days in Morocco

"The tour was excellent, we did a little bit of everything, which gave us a delicious taste of Morocco and its culture." Our guide, Idir, was very knowledgeable and patient with us; we were not rushed; he let us take our time when we needed more. Thank you, Ibrahim and Idir, for a lovely time in Morocco. We enjoyed it very much, and we will be happy to recommend this tour to friends and family who want to come and visit this beautiful country."
Reid E Butt enjoying the desert

Tom & Lisa

From Sydney, Australia

Flawless 9-Day Morocco Journey

"What a fabulous trip! From excellent pre-trip communication with Ibrahim to our fantastic driver/guide, Mohammed, he drove safely, was personable, informative, and very likable. Highlights of our tour were the camel trek and a night at the Sahara desert camp in Merzouga, and we stayed in beautiful riads. The itinerary covered everything perfectly. Highly recommend this 9-day tour from Casablanca!"
Lillian at the camp

Laura Peterson

From Texas, USA

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About a 9-Day Morocco Itinerary

Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our 9 days in Morocco. Whether you're wondering about logistics, comfort, or what's included, we've got you covered.

Yes, 9 days is enough to see Morocco’s main highlights at a comfortable pace. This itinerary covers Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, Volubilis, Meknes, Fes, the Merzouga desert, Todra Gorge, Dades Gorge, Ait Ben Haddou, and Marrakech. You get a good mix of cities, desert, mountains, and traditional villages without rushing every day.

The tour includes private airport or hotel pickup in Casablanca, private air-conditioned transport, an English-speaking driver or driver and guide, a local guide in Fes, 8 nights of accommodation with breakfast, dinners at the desert camp in Merzouga and in Dades Gorge, camel trekking, and sandboarding. It does not include lunches and dinners in Casablanca, Chefchaouen, and Fes; drinks; entrance fees when needed; or tips.

You travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle suitable for your group size. Comfortable vehicles include a Toyota Prado Land Cruiser TX, a Ford Tourneo Custom, or a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter minibus for larger groups. Your driver picks you up in Casablanca on day 1 and stays with you throughout the itinerary, handling all transfers between cities, the desert, and sightseeing stops.

Yes, the itinerary is fully customizable. You can adjust the number of nights in each city, add or remove stops, choose different levels of accommodation, and add extra activities such as cooking classes in Fes, a traditional hammam, massages, quad biking, or buggy rides in Erg Chebbi, or a 4×4 transfer instead of camels to the desert camp. Just share your preferences when you contact the team so they can design a plan that matches your needs.

You can travel any time of year, but April, May, September, and October offer the most pleasant weather. For peak seasons like spring and autumn, book early to lock in your preferred dates and rides. A small deposit is required to confirm your reservation (via PayPal, Wise, or bank transfer), with the remaining balance payable in cash to your driver or guide in euros, US dollars, or Moroccan dirhams on the first day.