Atlantic Coast, Imperial Cities, Sahara Desert & Chefchaouen
Explore Morocco in depth on this 12-day private tour, combining the Atlantic coast, imperial cities, the magical Blue City of Chefchaouen, and the Sahara Desert. Experience history, architecture, culture, and natural beauty, all in a private, comfortable vehicle with an experienced driver.
Day 1
Arrival in Casablanca – Welcome to Morocco
Arrive at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport. Your private driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. If time allows, visit the spectacular Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world with intricate craftsmanship and stunning ocean views. Later, stroll along the Corniche of Ain Diab, a vibrant promenade lined with cafes, restaurants, and seaside views. Overnight in Casablanca.
Day 2
Casablanca – El Jadida – Oualidia
Today, travel south along Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Stop in El Jadida, a historic Portuguese port city famous for its Portuguese Cistern, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and fortified ramparts. Continue to Oualidia, a serene seaside town known for its lagoon, oyster farms, and sandy beaches. Here you can relax, take in the coastal views, and enjoy fresh seafood. Overnight in Oualidia.
Day 3
Oualidia – Safi – Essaouira
Head south along the Atlantic coast, stopping in Safi, Morocco’s pottery capital. Visit artisan workshops, stroll through the medina, and enjoy views of the Atlantic from its historic ramparts. Continue to Essaouira, a UNESCO-listed city with a 17th-century medina, fortified walls, and a bustling fishing port. Walk along the skala ramparts, enjoy the fresh sea breeze, and watch local artisans craft intricate woodwork. Overnight in Essaouira.
Day 4
Essaouira – Marrakech
After breakfast, drive inland to Marrakech, crossing the scenic countryside with olive groves and argan tree forests. Arrive in Marrakech and check into your riad. Spend the afternoon exploring Jemaa el-Fna Square, a lively UNESCO World Heritage site filled with street performers, food stalls, and traditional storytellers. Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 5
Private Guided Tour of Marrakech
Today, you will immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Marrakech with a licensed private guide. Begin at the Koutoubia Mosque, the city’s largest mosque, famous for its elegant 77-meter minaret, which has become an iconic symbol of the Red City. Next, explore the Bahia Palace, a 19th-century architectural masterpiece adorned with intricate zellij mosaics, carved cedar wood, and serene courtyards surrounded by lush gardens.. Walk through the bustling medina and its colorful souks, where the aroma of spices, the sound of artisans crafting leather and metalwork, and the sight of vibrant textiles create an unforgettable sensory experience. After a traditional Moroccan lunch, wander through hidden riads and artisan workshops, with time to explore the beautiful Jemaa el-Fna Square, where storytellers, snake charmers, musicians, and food stalls bring the city to life. Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 6
Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate
Depart Marrakech and cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, stopping at panoramic viewpoints of Berber villages and terraced landscapes. Visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of Morocco’s most famous kasbahs, often seen in movies such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara” and home to the Atlas Film Studios. Overnight in Ouarzazate.
Day 7
Ouarzazate – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert (1 Night Only)
Travel east across dramatic desert landscapes to the Todra Gorges, famous for towering limestone cliffs ideal for photography and hiking. Continue to Merzouga, at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes in the Sahara Desert. Ride camels across the golden sand at sunset and experience a magical night in a Sahara desert camp under the stars.
Day 8
Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Fes
Wake early to watch the sunrise over the dunes, then returnby 4×4. Depart Merzouga and travel through the Ziz Valley, famous for its lush palm groves and kasbahs. Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains and stop in Ifrane, Morocco’s “Little Switzerland,” for a scenic walk in the alpine-style town. Continue to Fes in the evening. Overnight in Fes.
Day 9
Private Guided Tour of Fes
Spend the day discovering the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, Fes, with a licensed local guide. Visit the Royal Palace gates and the magnificent Al-Qarawiyyin University, the oldest functioning university in the world, with a rich history of Islamic scholarship. Explore the famous Chouara Tanneries, where centuries-old techniques are used to dye leather in vibrant colors, and visit local artisan workshops producing pottery, carpets, and metalwork. Stroll through the bustling souks, experiencing the lively mix of smells, sounds, and colors that make Fes a living museum. Along the way, stop at historic madrassas such as Bou Inania, with exquisite Islamic architecture and intricate wood and stone carvings. Lunch in a traditional Moroccan restaurant provides a perfect break before continuing to explore hidden squares and serene courtyards, capturing the authentic essence of Fes. Overnight in Fes.
Day 10
Fes – Chefchaouen
Drive north through the Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen, the famous Blue City. Explore Plaza Uta el-Hammam, stroll through winding blue-painted alleys, visit local artisan shops, and take in views from the Spanish Mosque overlooking the medina. Overnight in Chefchaouen.
Day 11
Chefchaouen – Rabat – Casablanca
After breakfast, depart Chefchaouen and travel back to Casablanca. Stop for sightseeing in Rabat, Morocco’s capital, including Hassan Tower and Kasbah of the Oudayas. Arrive in Casablanca for overnight, allowing a smooth departure the next day.
Day 12
Casablanca – Departure
Transfer to Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport according to your flight schedule. Your private 12-day Morocco tour concludes with memories of Atlantic charm, imperial cities, Chefchaouen’s magic, and the Sahara Desert.
What’s Included:
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Private air-conditioned vehicle and driver
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Airport pickup and drop-off in Casablanca
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11 nights accommodation in hotels and riads
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1 night Sahara desert camp in Merzouga
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Daily breakfast
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Dinner in desert camp
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Camel trek at sunset in Merzouga
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4×4 desert excursion in Merzouga region
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Licensed guides in Marrakech and Fes
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Flexible stops for photos and breaks
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Fuel, parking, and driver expenses
What’s Not Included:
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International flights to and from Morocco
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Lunches and drinks
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Entrance fees to monuments and museums
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Dinners not mentioned
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Personal expenses (souvenirs, shopping, laundry)
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Travel insurance
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Any service not explicitly mentioned