10 Days Morocco Highlights Tour - Sahara Desert and imperial cities

Welcome to Morocco! When you land at Casablanca Airport, a driver will take you to your hotel. If you arrive early, you can visit the impressive Hassan II Mosque or take a walk along the coast. Relax and get ready for your journey.

If you haven’t seen the Hassan II Mosque yet, start your day there. Then head to Rabat to visit the Hassan Tower and the peaceful Kasbah of the Udayas. After lunch, travel through scenic mountains to reach Chefchaouen, the famous blue city. Spend the evening exploring its colorful streets.

Leave Chefchaouen and head to the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Then stop at the holy town of Moulay Idriss and continue to Meknes to see the impressive Bab El-Mansour gate. By evening, arrive in Fes and check into your riad.

Spend the day exploring the old city of Fes. Visit the Royal Palace gates, walk through the medina, and see the Al-Qarawiyyin University and Bou Inania Madrasa. Don’t miss the Chouara Tanneries. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then discover the Jewish Quarter and gardens. Overnight in Fes.

Drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane (called “Little Switzerland”) and the cedar forests of Azrou. Pass through valleys and gorges until you reach Merzouga at the edge of the Sahara. Ride camels to your desert camp and enjoy the sunset, dinner, and a night under the stars.

Wake up early to see the sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, visit ancient underground irrigation channels. Continue through Tinghir to the dramatic Todra Gorge. Walk through the canyon and then head to the Dades Valley. Stay overnight in a local riad.

Drive through the Rose Valley and visit local women’s cooperatives. In Ouarzazate, visit Atlas Film Studios. Then explore the famous Ait Benhaddou kasbah before crossing the scenic High Atlas Mountains. Arrive in Marrakech by evening.

Take a guided tour of Marrakech. See the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and explore the medina and souks. Visit Jemaa el-Fnaa square and relax in the Majorelle Garden. Spend the night in a riad in Marrakech.

After breakfast, depart from Marrakech and head west toward the charming coastal city of Essaouira. The journey takes about 2.5 hours, offering a scenic drive through rolling hills, argan tree groves, and small rural villages. You’ll arrive in Essaouira by late morning, giving you plenty of time to explore this laid-back seaside gem. Originally built by the Portuguese in the 18th century and once known as "Mogador," Essaouira boasts a unique blend of European and Moroccan architecture. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Medina, stroll along the fortified sea walls, and enjoy the fresh Atlantic breeze at the bustling harbor. With its relaxed vibe, artistic soul, and fresh seafood, Essaouira offers a perfect change of pace from the buzz of Marrakech.

After breakfast, say goodbye to Essaouira and begin your scenic journey north toward Casablanca. Along the Atlantic coast, your first stop will be the city of Safi, known for its centuries-old pottery tradition. Take a short break to visit the historic Portuguese fortress and perhaps browse local ceramic workshops to see the famous Safi pottery being handcrafted.

Continue your drive along the coastline to El Jadida, a charming seaside town with strong Portuguese roots. Here, you can explore the Portuguese Cistern, an underground vaulted chamber with a magical atmosphere, and stroll through the old fortified medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a walk along the ramparts overlooking the ocean and take in the relaxed coastal vibe.

After a leisurely visit, continue the final stretch of your journey to Casablanca, where you’ll arrive in the late afternoon or early evening. Settle into your hotel and enjoy the evening at your own pace in Morocco’s bustling economic capital.