TEL:+212 618-893170
moroccoepicjourney@gmail.com
This thirteen-day tour takes you around almost every fabulous place in Morocco, starting in the north and weaving in the country’s most memorable settings: Casablanca, Rabat, Assilah, Tangier, the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen the blue city, the Roman ruins of Volubilis, Meknes, Fes, Ifrane, the cedar forest, Midelt, the Ziz Valley, Rissani, Erfoud, the golden Erg Chebbi dunes around Merzouga, Khamlia, the Merzouga lake, Todgha Gorge, the Dades Gorge, the Valley of Roses, Skoura, Ouarzazate, the kasbah of Aït Benhaddou, the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, Marrakech, and Essaouira. You ride camels and spend the night in a luxury camp in the middle of the desert, enjoy magical sunset and sunrise in the Sahara, explore the Merzouga region by 4×4, visit a nomadic Berber family and an ancient eyeliner mine, enjoy Gnawa music in Khamlia, and take guided tours of Chefchaouen, Fes, and Marrakech. The tour ends in Casablanca.
Every itinerary is fully customisable to suit your preferences and pace.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL TO CASABLANCA -> VISIT THE LARGEST CITY OF MOROCCO
On the first day, we’ll welcome you upon arrival at the airport or directly from your accommodation in Casablanca — Morocco’s largest city and economic heartbeat. Your journey begins with a visit to the spectacular Hassan II Mosque, perched on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. As the largest mosque in Morocco, its intricate architecture and seaside setting make it a must-see landmark.
After some free time for lunch, we continue exploring the highlights of Casablanca. Depending on your arrival time, the tour may include Mohammed V Square — the bustling civic center known for its colonial architecture; a photo stop at the iconic Rick’s Café, inspired by the classic film Casablanca; and a scenic walk along the vibrant Corniche of Casablanca. Note: the order and number of visits may vary based on your arrival schedule.
Approximate driving distance/time: 1 hour
DAY 2: CASABLANCA -> RABAT THE CAPITAL -> ASSILAH
After breakfast, we drive along the coastline to Rabat, one of the imperial cities in Morocco and the current capital. We visit the highlights of the Moroccan capital, including the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Kasbah of Oudaya. Free time for lunch. In the afternoon, we head north to Assilah, the beautiful seaside city. Overnight stay in a hotel.
Approximate driving distance/time: 4 hours
DAY 3: ASSILAH -> TANGIER -> RIF MOUNTAINS -> CHEFCHAOUEN
After breakfast, we depart from Assilah and drive along the coastline to Tangier, also known as “the bride of the north.” It is located northwest, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Spartel, in the Strait of Gibraltar. Firstly, we explore the beautiful city and visit the cave of Hercules and Cape Spartel. Free time for lunch, before we drive inland to Chefchaouen, passing through the city of Tetouan and the Rif Mountains. Stops are made along the way for panoramic views. Finally, overnight stay in a hotel in Chefchaouen.
Approximate driving distance/time: 2.5 hours
DAY 4: SIGHTSEEING CHEFCHAOUEN THE BLUE CITY (No Driving – 2 hours walking tour)
After breakfast, we explore Chefchaouen, the blue city, also known as Achaoun, which means horns in Berber. The city is located in the Rif Mountains in northwest Morocco. It is famous for its buildings and alleyways painted in white and blue. Firstly, we stroll in its charming old Medina, which has so many beautiful authentic blue doors and whitewashed walls. Free time for lunch. In the afternoon, you can hike to the Spanish mosque, located on high ground, where you can see the spectacular view of the whole blue city. Finally, return to your hotel. Overnight stay in the same hotel.
DAY 5: CHEFCHAOUEN -> THE ROMAN RUINS OF VOLUBILIS -> MEKNES -> FES
After breakfast, feel free to wander in the beautiful alleyways of the blue city Chefchaouen. Then we drive to visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. It is well preserved, as it is recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It has many beautiful mosaics scattered here and there, along with ancient pillars and archways. After strolling in the ruins, we drive 30 km to visit Meknes, the Ismaili capital and one of the imperial cities, where we visit Bab Al-Mansour, the Sahrij Souani basin, the Royal stables, the granary, and the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum. Then we head to Fes. Overnight stay in a Riad.
Approximate driving distance/time: 4 hours
DAY 6: SIGHTSEEING FES WITH A LOCAL GUIDE (30 min Drive / 3 to 4 hours walking tour)
We’ll pick you up from your Riad in Fes after breakfast to begin your immersive exploration of one of Morocco’s most iconic imperial cities — Fes, the country’s cultural and spiritual heart.
Your journey starts with a driving tour. First, we’ll stop at the magnificent Royal Palace Gate, followed by a visit to “The Mellah,” the historic Jewish Quarter. Then, enjoy breathtaking views from the Borj Sud fortress, offering a stunning overlook of the ancient Medina. The final stop of this portion is the Ceramic Village & School, where you’ll witness traditional craftsmanship in action.
Next, a walking tour: step back in time as you enter the medieval Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved historic towns in the Arab world. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore highlights such as the Al Attarine Madrasa, the University and Mosque of Al Quaraouiyine — considered the oldest existing university in the world — and the colorful Chouara Tanneries, where leather is dyed using centuries-old methods.
After this unforgettable journey through history, you’ll be returned to your riad to relax.
DAY 7: FES -> IFRANE -> CEDAR FOREST -> MIDELT -> ZIZ VALLEY -> MERZOUGA SAHARA
After breakfast, we continue our tour south through Imouzzer to visit Ifrane. The city is famous for its low temperature, snow, and alpine-style architecture houses — no wonder it is called the Switzerland of Morocco. After that, we continue to the cedar forest, where the Barbary macaques live. Feel free to feed them while wandering in the forest. Later, we continue to Midelt, where we’ll have free time for lunch. Then we drive to Merzouga through the Tizi-n-Tilghmt pass and along the Ziz valley, with stops for panoramic views.
In the afternoon, we reach the Sahara desert of Merzouga, where you switch to camels. Then cross the sandy desert and make a stop on top of a high dune to enjoy the sunset. Finally, you continue to the desert camp, which is a combination between the traditional tents of nomads and the luxury a hotel has, where you can enjoy the Berber drums music while dancing around the campfire, under a vast open sky of stars. Dinner and overnight in the camp.
Approximate driving distance/time: 7 hours
DAY 8: EXPLORE MERZOUGA REGION -> NOMADS -> KHAMLIA -> MERZOUGA LAKE -> ERG CHEBBI -> PALM GROVE
Waking up early in the morning is a must-do, in order to contemplate the beautiful sunrise in the middle of the desert. Free time for breakfast. Then you return on camels or a 4×4 ride to Merzouga, where the driver awaits. We dedicate the day to exploring the region of Merzouga. The area has so many incredible sites, from sand dunes, a wild lake, mines, and fossil areas to fabulous oases, which are ideal places for so many outdoor activities.
Firstly, we start our journey in Merzouga by driving off-road to visit an ancient eyeliner mine. Then we pay the nomads a visit in their handmade woven tent, learning how they live while drinking a Berber tea. Our next destination is the Khamlia village, where you will enjoy the Gnaoua music and dancing performances of its inhabitants originating from sub-Saharan countries like Mali, Sudan, and Niger. Free time for lunch in a restaurant. After that, we take a stroll in a palm trees grove, then drive a few kilometres to see the wild lake of Merzouga, also called flamingos lake. Dinner and overnight in a hotel.
Approximate driving distance/time: 2 hours
DAY 9: MERZOUGA SAHARA -> RISSANI -> ERFOUD -> TODRA GORGE -> DADES VALLEY
After breakfast, we leave the desert to visit Rissani town, the ancient capital of Tafilalet. Rissani is still a major trading center in the region, with a large souk.
After a stroll in Rissani souk, we continue to Erfoud, where we visit one of the workshops of fossilized marble. Then we drive through Touroug and Tinjdad palm groves to reach the Todra Gorge. The course of the Todra river has carved out a grand, high red cliff-sided canyon through the mountains. These gorges are an ideal place for rock climbers. Feel free to wander in the gorges and appreciate the beauty of the landscape. Free time for lunch in a restaurant. Then we continue to the Dades Valley, through Boumalne Dades. Inevitable stops at the “monkey fingers” rock formation and for the view of the Dades valley. Finally, dinner and overnight in a hotel.
Approximate driving distance/time: 5 hours
DAY 10: DADES VALLEY -> ROSE VALLEY -> PALM GROVES OF SKOURA -> OUARZAZATE -> AIT BEN HADDOU KASBAH -> HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS -> MARRAKECH
After breakfast, we continue our trip to Kalaa Magouna to visit the Rose Valley. A Rose Festival is held annually in May, where the locals offer their rose products, from perfumes, rose water, and oil to cosmetic products. We then drive through the palm groves of Skoura before we reach Ouarzazate, where we visit the studios in which famous movies were shot.
We depart to visit the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This Kasbah has appeared in many movies, including Gladiator, Alexander, The Mummy, and others, as well as TV series including Game of Thrones. After that, we continue to Marrakech, driving through the Tizi-N-Tichka pass and the High Atlas Mountains. Stops are made for lunch and to take pictures at interesting spots. Overnight stay in a Riad in Marrakech.
Approximate driving distance/time: 6 hours
DAY 11: GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOUR OF MARRAKECH (45 min Drive / 3 hours walking tour)
After a warm breakfast, we explore the highlights of Marrakech with a local guide. As one of Morocco’s historic imperial cities, Marrakech is rich in culture and architectural beauty. The tour includes a visit to the stunning 19th-century Bahia Palace, followed by the beautifully preserved Ben Youssef Madrasa, a former Islamic school showcasing traditional Moroccan design. You’ll also explore the lively Medina and its souks, filled with colorful stalls and skilled artisans, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jamaa El Fna Square, and admire the Koutoubia Mosque from outside, the largest in the city.
Free time for lunch. In the afternoon, meet your driver to visit the iconic Majorelle Garden (requires online pre-booking), followed by a drive through Gueliz, the modern district of Marrakech, before returning to your Riad.
DAY 12: MARRAKECH -> ESSAOUIRA
After breakfast, we drive west to Essaouira. On the way, we make stops to see the Argan tree plantations and cooperatives, and if you are lucky enough, the goats on the trees. We reach Essaouira, formerly Mogador, one of the important coastal towns in Morocco. The city is famous for the diversity of seafood, beautiful beach, and surfing sport. Free time to visit the fishing port, the ancient ramparts with cannons, and the old Medina. Finally, transfer to your hotel. Overnight stay in Essaouira.
Approximate driving distance/time: 3 hours
DAY 13: ESSAOUIRA -> CASABLANCA
On the last day, we depart from Essaouira and head to Casablanca. Drop-off at your departure terminal in Casablanca airport. Ideally, your flight should leave around 4pm or later. (It is possible to end the tour in Marrakech as well.) End of the tour.
Approximate driving distance/time: 4 hours 20 minutes
IMPORTANT NOTES
THE PRICE
The price varies depending on the number of travelers. The more people join the tour, the lower the price per person can be. Transportation costs are fixed and shared between the travelers. The final price also depends on the accommodation category you choose, such as standard, superior, or luxury. Contact us for an exact quotation based on your group size, travel dates, and preferences.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is the tour private or shared?
The tour is a completely private experience. You will travel exclusively with the members of your own group, without joining other tourists. This gives you greater flexibility with the schedule, stops, pace, and overall experience.
How long is the camel ride? What is the alternative to camels?
The camel ride usually takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours to reach the desert camp, depending on the camp location and conditions. If you prefer not to ride a camel, you can be transferred to the camp by 4×4 vehicle at no additional cost. Quad biking and buggy excursions are also available at an extra cost.
Is the desert tent private? Does it have a private bathroom and shower?
Yes. Our luxury desert camp offers private tents equipped with private en-suite bathrooms, including a shower and hot running water.
What happens to our luggage during the camel ride?
During the camel ride, you only need to carry a small backpack with the essentials you need for the night. Your main luggage will be transported by the camp’s 4×4 vehicle and will be waiting for you at your tent when you arrive.
What is the best time to visit Morocco?
The best times to visit Morocco are generally spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, when temperatures are usually pleasant across much of the country. Winter can also be an excellent time to travel, especially for exploring the southern desert regions.
What type of vehicles are used?
We use modern, comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles:
Can you accommodate dietary requirements?
Yes. We can accommodate a wide range of dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other specific requests. Please let us know when booking so we can arrange the included meals and stops along the route accordingly.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is suitable for travelers of different ages. Please note that some days involve several hours of driving to cover the distances between different regions of Morocco. Our vehicles are comfortable, and regular stops can be made during the journey.
Where does the tour start and finish?
Pick-up is available directly from Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport or your accommodation on the first day. The tour also ends in Casablanca, with a drop-off at the airport on the final day. If preferred, the itinerary can also finish in Marrakech upon request.
Expenses and additional costs
Currency exchange: Euros and US Dollars can be exchanged for Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) at banks, airports, and exchange offices. ATMs are also widely available throughout Morocco.
Cost of meals: Lunches are not included in the tour price and generally cost around 5–20 EUR per person, depending on the restaurant and location.
Bargaining: Negotiating prices in souks and traditional markets is a normal part of shopping culture in Morocco.
BOOKING PROCESS
1. Contact us
Contact us through our contact form, email, or WhatsApp and provide the number of travelers, your approximate travel date, and your preferred accommodation category.
2. Confirm your booking
A small deposit is required to confirm your reservation. Payment can be made through PayPal, Wise, or bank transfer.
The remaining balance can be paid in cash in EUR, USD, or MAD directly to the driver upon arrival.
WHY CHOOSE A PRIVATE MOROCCO TOUR?
A private tour allows you to travel at your own pace, with greater flexibility over departure times, sightseeing stops, breaks, activities, and accommodation choices.
You will have an experienced private driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group, giving you more freedom and comfort throughout the journey. Whether you are traveling as a couple, family, group of friends, or a small private group, the itinerary can be adapted around your interests and travel preferences.
An incredible 13-day Morocco tour from Casablanca. The night in the desert camp under the stars was pure magic, and the Erg Chebbi dunes was a highlight. Flawless organization.
Un viaggio indimenticabile. le mura di Essaouira e la calorosa ospitalità hanno reso le dune dell’Erg Chebbi ancora più speciale. Consigliatissimo.
Un viaje que unió a toda la familia. Cada día fue una aventura. Recomendado con niños.
Abbiamo vissuto giorni meravigliosi in Marocco. la città blu di Chefchaouen e le dune dell’Erg Chebbi sono stati amati da tutta la famiglia.
A fantastic solo adventure. the Erg Chebbi dunes and Chefchaouen’s blue city are places I recommend everyone see at least once.
