12 Days Tour From Casablanca

After breakfast at your hotel, we will set off for Rabat, Morocco’s administrative capital. Founded in the 12th century as a fortress, Rabat later served as a sanctuary for Barbary pirates in the 17th century. Interestingly, Morocco was the first country to recognize the United States as a sovereign nation, partly due to the issues caused by these pirates. In this Atlantic port town, you'll have the opportunity to visit historical landmarks dating back to Roman times. The local souks are renowned for their high-quality handcrafted goods, making them some of the best in Morocco. Our tour will include visits to Rabat's majestic Kasbah of Oudayas, the Hassan Tower with its partially built minaret, the mausoleums of Mohammed V and Hassan II (the current king’s father), and the Chellah Necropolis. After lunch, we will pass through the picturesque town of Ouazzan on our way to Chefchaouen. Ouazzan, nestled in the Rif Mountains, is known for its stunning scenery.  We will then proceed to Chefchaouen, often referred to as the Blue Pearl of Morocco. This city is a photographer’s paradise, renowned for its striking blue-washed buildings. Chefchaouen has a long history as a refuge for exiled Moors from Spain and Jewish refugees in the 1930s. You will spend the night in a traditional Riad, soaking in the unique charm and tranquility of this beautiful mountain city.

After breakfast, we'll begin our exploration of Chefchaouen, often referred to as the Blue City. This quaint, tidy, and pleasant town is known for its distinctive blue-washed buildings and serene atmosphere. We'll start our tour at the Plaza Uta Hammam, the town's central square, which is an excellent place to relax and soak in the local ambiance after strolling through the historic Medina. In the plaza, you'll find the 18th-century Kasbah, a meticulously restored walled fortress with a beautiful garden. Chefchaouen's steep, narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses with blue doors and windows, and the mountain backdrop make it a perfect spot for captivating photos. After lunch, we'll visit the natural spring of Ras Elma. Unlike many other regions in Morocco, Chefchaouen was under Spanish rule, resulting in a unique blend of Spanish and Moroccan cultural influences. We'll conclude our day with an overnight stay at your hotel, allowing you to fully absorb the charm and tranquility of Chefchaouen.

On the fourth day of our 12 Days tour from Casablanca, we'll begin with a hearty breakfast before leaving the enchanting city of Chefchaouen. Our journey will take us across the scenic Rif Mountains to reach the ancient Roman town of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we will marvel at the well-preserved mosaic floors, basilica, temple, and triumphal arch, immersing ourselves in the rich history of this remarkable archaeological site. Following our exploration of Volubilis, we'll head to the holy town of Moulay Driss, a significant pilgrimage destination for Moroccans. After enjoying lunch in this sacred town, we'll continue our journey to Meknes. In Meknes, you'll have the opportunity to visit the grand Mansour Gate, the Royal Granary, the Swani Basin, and the vibrant old Medina with its bustling souks. We'll also stop by Lahdim Square, where you can relax and soak up the atmosphere in one of its charming cafes. As the day winds down, we'll make our way to Fes. In the late afternoon, we'll arrive in Fes, where you'll spend the night in a classic Riad nestled within the historic Medina, allowing you to rest and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Today, you'll have the opportunity to explore Fez, Morocco’s spiritual capital. Our first stop will be the famous royal palace gates, renowned for their intricate modern craftsmanship. Next, we'll tour El Mellah, the fascinating Old Medina, which was Morocco’s first established Jewish neighborhood during the 16th century. As we stroll through the Old Medina’s streets and alleyways, you’ll discover significant historical sites, including the Chouara leather tanneries and the world’s oldest university, Al Quaraouine University. We'll continue the morning with a visit to the Attarine Museum and the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss. After lunch, we'll visit a local cooperative that specializes in traditional tile-making techniques. To cap off the day, we'll head to a stunning vantage point where you can take in the entire city before returning to our Riad for the night.

After breakfast, we’ll journey through the central Atlas Mountains. Our first stop will be Ifrane, a charming and well-maintained town often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its resemblance to a Swiss ski resort. Continuing south, we will travel to the largest cedar forest in North Africa, home to Barbary monkeys. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to feed the monkeys and capture some beautiful photos. After lunch in Midelt, we’ll head south across the Talghomt Pass, enjoying the breathtaking natural scenery along the way. We’ll then reach the Ziz Valley, where we will pause to take in the incredible panoramic view of this hidden sanctuary surrounded by lush palm groves. In about an hour, we’ll arrive in the Sahara Desert, where your camels will be waiting for you. Following a short break, you will embark on a guided camel trek across the high dunes of Erg Chebbi. You’ll witness a stunning sunset atop a tall dune before arriving at your camp for the night. After dinner, you’ll enjoy Berber music played by nomads around a campfire, beneath a starry sky.

Start your day early to witness a sunrise that could be the most beautiful of your life. After breakfast, we'll begin our Sahara Desert adventure, exploring various fascinating areas of the desert. Our first stop will be Merzouga Lake, a haven for unique birds. We’ll then head into the Sahara Desert, where nomads still live a traditional lifestyle with their animals. Here, we'll enjoy tea with them and learn about their way of life, offering a truly immersive experience on this thrilling 12-day tour from Casablanca. Next, we’ll visit the Mifis mines, once exploited by the French, and then follow the route used for the Paris-Dakar Rally.  Our tour continues with a visit to the black Berber community of Khamlia, known for its rich cultural heritage from Niger's Mali province. We’ll have the chance to dance and enjoy their traditional music. Afterward, we’ll visit a magnificent oasis on the edge of the sand dunes before ending our day at your Riad, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

On the 8th day of our 12 Days tour from Casablanca, we'll start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Then we'll bid farewell to the vast Sahara Desert and head towards the city of Rissani, historically a significant stop for Saharan caravans. If our schedule aligns with the bustling market days of Thursdays, we'll have the opportunity to explore the souk, the largest in the region. Next, we'll proceed to the fossil town of Erfoud, known for its stalls selling fossils, precious stones, and crystals. Visitors can also witness the marble processing session here. Continuing our journey, we'll travel through towns like Melaab, Tinjdad, and Ait Isa to reach the Dades Valley, en route to the Todra Valley, a lush green expanse surrounded by mud villages and mountains. After a short drive, we'll arrive at the Todra Gorges, renowned for its narrow vertical canyons with cliffs rising up to 300 meters high, a popular site for climbers. Following lunch in the area, we'll continue to explore the Dades Valley, where we'll see the fascinating rock formations known as the "monkey fingers" and admire the picturesque mud kasbahs. You'll spend the night in a hotel with a view of the valley, immersing yourself in its serene beauty.

On the ninth day of your 12-day tour from Casablanca, you'll embark on a journey to Ait Ben Haddou, one of Morocco's most renowned attractions. After breakfast, your day begins with a scenic drive through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs. Along the way, you'll pause in Kela'a M'gouna to admire the picturesque landscapes dotted with manicured rose bushes. Here, you'll also visit rose farms to learn about the process of producing rose water and oil from the petals. Continuing onward, you'll reach Ouarzazate, known as North Africa's Hollywood due to its significant role in film production. You'll explore the city and visit breathtaking filming locations used in famous movies such as Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Black Hawk Down. A guided tour of a movie studio will offer insights into the filmmaking process in this region, including a visit to the "Musée du Cinema" to delve deeper into its history. Next, your journey takes you to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village with ancient ksours dating back to the 11th century. You'll marvel at the distinctive architecture and explore the intricate alleys and tunnels of the kasbah. Climbing to the old Granary provides a panoramic view of the surrounding area, offering a glimpse into its historical significance and stunning vistas. In the late afternoon, as the crowds thin out, you can stroll through the kasbah's winding paths and perhaps visit the riverbanks to see the iconic gates featured in the popular HBO series Game of Thrones. Finally, your day concludes as you approach Marrakech, one of Morocco's most vibrant cities. The journey to Marrakech in the evening involves traversing the winding Tizi N'Tichka roads. Upon arrival, you'll unwind in your Riad before immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fna Square. This bustling hub comes alive at night with a myriad of entertainers, including musicians, performers, snake charmers, and food vendors. Choose a cozy café around the square, where you can enjoy a delicious meal accompanied by refreshing mint tea while observing the vibrant spectacle from a comfortable distance.

Marrakech, known as the "Red City" for its centuries-old red sandstone walls and structures, is a mesmerizing destination in Morocco that captivates visitors with its rich history and vibrant culture. Historically a bustling hub for trade among tribes from the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech today remains a top tourist destination, drawing millions of visitors annually. Your exploration of Marrakech begins at the iconic Jemaa el-Fna Square, where our knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the square's layout and its cultural significance. From there, you'll visit the serene Majorelle Gardens and the impressive Koutoubia Mosque, an architectural masterpiece that dominates the city skyline. Continuing your tour, you'll delve into Marrakech's storied past with visits to the Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, and El Badi Palace, each offering insights into Morocco's rich architectural heritage and royal history. Lunch will be served at a local eatery, providing you with a taste of authentic Moroccan cuisine amidst the city's bustling atmosphere. A visit to Marrakech is not just a sightseeing experience; it's an immersion into Moroccan culture, where the blend of European influences in the modern southern part contrasts with the traditional northern quarters that proudly preserve their historical roots. In the modern section of Marrakech, you'll find luxurious restaurants akin to those in Paris, offering a blend of Moroccan and international flavors. Meanwhile, the traditional medina is a treasure trove of ancient souks and artisanal stores like Souk el Attarin, Souk Chouari, and Souk Smata, where you can discover traditional crafts, spices, textiles, and more. Marrakech's allure lies in its enchanting blend of ancient landmarks, diverse monuments, and magical settings that make it a standout destination in Morocco. A trip to Morocco would indeed be incomplete without experiencing the vibrant tapestry of Marrakech, where every corner tells a story of its rich cultural heritage and enduring charm.

On Day 11 of your Morocco itinerary, you'll have a free day to explore Marrakech at your leisure. This day provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the city's enchanting sights and experiences, or simply unwind and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city. Here are some suggestions for how you might spend your free day in Marrakech: 1. Visit Additional Landmarks: Explore more of Marrakech's iconic landmarks that may not have been covered in the guided tour. Consider visiting places like the Museum of Marrakech, Ben Youssef Madrasa, or the vibrant souks within the medina. 2. Relax at Majorelle Gardens: Return to Majorelle Gardens for a leisurely stroll amidst its tranquil atmosphere and vibrant botanical displays. This botanical garden is not only beautiful but also rich in history, once owned by the renowned fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. 3. Shopping in the Souks: Spend time wandering through Marrakech's bustling souks, such as Souk Semmarine and Souk El Khemis, where you can shop for Moroccan handicrafts, textiles, spices, and souvenirs. Don't hesitate to bargain with the local vendors for the best deals. 4. Indulge in Moroccan Cuisine: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional Moroccan restaurant, trying out local delicacies like tagine, couscous, or pastilla. Marrakech offers a variety of dining options from street food stalls to elegant rooftop restaurants with panoramic views. 5. Hammam Experience: Treat yourself to a traditional Moroccan hammam experience for relaxation and rejuvenation. Many spas and hammams in Marrakech offer luxurious treatments using local ingredients like argan oil and black soap. 6. Explore the Medina: Get lost in the maze-like streets of Marrakech's medina, where every turn unveils hidden gems like ancient riads, historic mosques, and artisan workshops. Don't miss the chance to witness local artisans at work. 7. Attend a Cultural Show: In the evening, consider attending a cultural show or performance at one of Marrakech's venues. This could include traditional music, dance performances, or even a belly dancing show. 8. Day Trip Options: If you're up for more adventure, you can take a day trip to nearby attractions like the Atlas Mountains, Ourika Valley, or the Ouzoud Waterfalls, each offering breathtaking natural beauty and cultural insights. Remember to take advantage of this free day to immerse yourself fully in Marrakech's unique blend of history, culture, and modern vitality. Whether you prefer exploring historical sites, shopping in bustling markets, or simply relaxing and enjoying Moroccan hospitality, Marrakech has something to offer every traveler.

Here’s where your unforgettable 12 Days Morocco Tour from Casablanca concludes. As much as we cherish seeing everything unfold smoothly, bidding farewell is always bittersweet. Over the past twelve days, we’ve journeyed together, shared stories, and created lasting memories. Saying goodbye is never easy, but your flight arrangements mark the final leg of your Moroccan adventure.  Your driver will ensure a seamless transfer to the airport after check-out, where you’ll depart with a treasury of experiences to share.  If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Click “Book” or “Inquiry” to contact us, and we’ll provide you with detailed assistance. Remember, this tour is just a glimpse, and we’re happy to tailor it to your preferences. Safe travels, and until we meet again!