Morocco Grand Journey: 10 Days from Casablanca to Marrakech

The first leg of your ten-day tour of Morocco takes place in Casablanca which is also the largest and most economically active city in Morocco. Transfer to your hotel upon arrival for some rest after travelling from abroad. If time permits, see some of the main sites around Casablanca on an introductory tour, visiting both the newer sections of town as well as the coast. There are many things to discover about Morocco in this beautiful city, combining the beauty and vibrancy of Morocco with its old history. You have free time this evening to either relax or dine at your hotel before continuing on your adventure.

The day will begin with visiting Hassan II Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in the world and is located on the Atlantic Ocean after enjoying breakfast at the hotel. After visiting Hassan II Mosque, you will continue north to Rabat, the capital of Morocco. During your time in Rabat, you will experience Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. The Kasbah of the Oudayas with its beautiful blue & white streets and breathtaking ocean views deserves your total attention. As you walk through the tranquil medina, you will be able to appreciate the peace and elegance of this city before settling at your hotel for the evening.

In this morning's travels, we will explore the lush countryside and rolling hills of the Rif Mountains, arriving at the Blue City of Chefchaouen in the afternoon to see the city's tranquil beauty. Take your time checking out the many blue painted streets and little squares with picturesque views and artisan shops. The slow pace of Chefchaouen along with the majestic beauty of the mountain regions makes this city a great place to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and spend the afternoon. Your night will be free for you to relax in your charming Riad hotel.

Following your meal, you will depart from Chefchaouen while traveling towards the east toward Fes whilst taking in all of the beautiful countryside and artisanal villages along the route. Once you arrive in Fes, the spiritual and cultural center of Morocco, you will check into your Riad situated within or adjacent to the Old City Medina. The remainder of your day is your own to either unwind and/or go for a slow stroll through the areas around the Riad to get a sense of this ancient Imperial City's vibrancy and spirit prior to your full guided tour of it tomorrow.

An extensive guided visit of Fes, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities from medieval times on the planet, is planned for today. You will explore the UNESCO world heritage site of the Medina in Fes, entering through the royal gates and discovering important locations within such as Al Quaraouiyine University, traditional madrasas, vibrant souks, and the well-known tanneries. You will also stroll down narrow alleys filled with tradesmen and women who use techniques that have been passed down over the centuries. This day-long immersion into Fes will afford you an unparalleled opportunity to become intimately familiar with Morocco's religious, intellectual and cultural heritage. You will return to your riad at the close of the day.

A staggered start means we begin our journey earlier than others to get to Middle Atlas Mountain Range which features beautiful cedar trees, quaint villages and stunning views of the mountains. We will make several scenic stops along the way, including having lunch in one of these scenic areas before proceeding on to our route towards the Sahara. When you arrive at your destination in Merzouga late afternoon, you'll be greeted by the endless golden expanse of the dunes. We will then take a camel ride into the middle of this vastness while enjoying the beautiful colours of the sunset casting across the dunes. You will be spending the night in a Berber tent where you can enjoy music, eat dinner and sleep peacefully under the stars surrounded by the tranquil atmosphere of the Sahara Desert.

Begin your day with a desert sunrise, then take a camel ride back to your village. You will then eat breakfast and begin travelling through the incredible desert landscapes with ancient kasbahs and palm trees scattered throughout the desert. Travel to the Dades Valley, famous for its unique rock formations, where the river runs through a beautiful area surrounded by mountains and vast green scenery. You can stop at many different scenic viewpoints and walk for a short distance. Arrive at your hotel or guesthouse in the Dades Valley for a quiet and relaxing place to stay overnight.

Travel to Marrakech Via The High Atlas Mountains. You will be treated to stunning scenery along the way including the Todra Gorge, which is towering cliffs, followed by the Valley of A Thousand Kasbahs. After crossing several mountain passes on your drive across the High Atlas Mountains you will arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon. Known as the Red City, Marrakech has a rich history and culture along with modern amenities. You will check into your hotel or riad, and have a chance to explore independently.

After breakfast, depending on when your flight is leaving, you may have some time to do a little last-minute shopping or relaxing before you leave. This will conclude your once-in-a-lifetime, ten-day adventure through Morocco and all it has to offer including the majestic imperial cities and the serene desert landscapes.