9-day 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 ensure 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.
Wander through Casablanca, Morocco’s modern coastal metropolis, before heading toward the imperial charm of Marrakech.
Cross the High Atlas Mountains via breathtaking mountain passes and visit the legendary Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage wonder.
Discover the cinematic city of Ouarzazate, home to famous film studios and the historic Taourirt Kasbah.
Explore the dramatic Dades and Todra Gorges, two of Morocco’s most impressive natural canyons.
Arrive in Merzouga and embark on a memorable camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi at sunset.
Spend magical nights in a Berber desert camp, complete with traditional music, stargazing, and authentic hospitality.
Enjoy a full day of Saharan adventure: sunrise views, sandboarding, nomadic encounters, and 4×4 exploration.
Visit historic Rissani, pass through Alnif and Tazarine, and relax in Zagora, the gate to the Draa Valley.
Travel through the lush Draa Valley and return to Marrakech via scenic southern landscapes.
Experience the coastal beauty of Essaouira with its fortified medina, vibrant fishing port, artisan workshops, and long Atlantic beaches.
Enjoy a refreshing blend of culture, history, adventure, and nature, from cities and mountains to deserts and oceans, before concluding your journey in Casablanca.
Your adventure, 9 Days Desert Tour from Casablanca to Marrakech and Essaouira, begins the time we meet you at the airport. 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.
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.
On the third day of our 9 Days Desert Tour from Casablanca to Marrakech and Essaouira, 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 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.
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 during this journey of 9 Days Desert Tour from Casablanca to Marrakech and Essaouira.
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.
On the sixth day of our 9 Days Desert Tour from Casablanca to Marrakech and Essaouira, we 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.
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. Enjoy your 9 Days Desert Tour from Casablanca to Marrakech and 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, see the different galleries or take a kitesurfing lesson. The day can be as active or leisurely as you wish, soaking up the coastal ambience.
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 the 9 Days Desert Tour from Casablanca to Marrakech and Essaouira.
Morocco’s climate varies by region. Expect warm days and cooler nights in the desert, especially from October to April. Light layers are ideal, along with a warm jacket for desert evenings. Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential.
Morocco is a culturally rich and conservative country. You don’t need to dress strictly, but modest clothing is recommended, especially in rural areas and medinas. A light scarf can be useful for sun protection and in culturally sensitive places.
The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are widely available in major cities, but bring some cash for small towns, souks, and desert areas where cards may not be accepted. Many shops and hotels accept credit cards, but sometimes with a small commission.
Arabic and Amazigh (Berber) are the official languages. French is widely spoken, especially in cities. In tourist areas, English is commonly understood. Your guide will help with communication throughout the trip.
Morocco is generally safe for travelers, and tourism is a major part of the economy. As in any busy destination, keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas. Roads are safe, and your tour includes a professional driver/guide for a comfortable journey.
Moroccan cuisine is delicious and often safe for travelers. To avoid stomach upset, drink bottled water and avoid tap water. Most travelers enjoy tagines, couscous, grilled meats, salads, and fresh bread without issue.
The desert camps offer clean beds, private or shared tents, and traditional meals. Evenings can be chilly in winter. Electricity is available in most camps for charging phones, but internet access may be limited, making it a perfect moment to disconnect.
Keep small cash available for:
Photography is usually welcome, but always ask permission before photographing locals. Drones are highly restricted in Morocco and generally not allowed without government authorization.
Friday is the holy day in Morocco. Some shops and attractions may open later or have reduced hours, especially in smaller towns. Plan with flexibility.
Local SIM cards from Orange, Inwi, or Maroc Telecom provide fast and affordable data. They can be purchased at the airport or in any major city.
Negotiation is normal in souks. It’s part of the experience, smile, be friendly, and enjoy the process. Fixed prices are more common in restaurants, supermarkets, and cooperatives.
