8-Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca to Marrakech with Sahara Camel Ride

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Day 01

Arrival in Casablanca and Explore Rabat

• The capital of commerce in contemporary Morocco is Casablanca. In contrast to the imperial cities of Fes and Marrakech, you might only need one morning to tour the city's top attractions before exploring the surrounding area. We advise visiting Hassan II Mosque, which is situated in a picturesque area by the sea, if you only visit one place in Casablanca. The world's tallest minaret, with a height of 656 feet (200 meters), was inaugurated in 1993, making it the tallest building in Morocco. An estimated 80,000 worshipers could fit in the courtyard, and another 25,000 could fit inside. The lavish interior was created using wood, marble, carved stone, and gilded ceilings, despite the impressive exterior and surroundings. One of the few mosques in Morocco that welcomes non-Muslim visitors is this one. The one-hour guided tours are offered in the mornings from 9 am to 2 pm, and they also feature a tour of the basement Hammam.
• Other locations worth visiting are as follows:
  • The Hobous: The French constructed Casablanca's "New Medina" in the 1930s. You will be surrounded by art deco architecture while exploring this market, which sells crafts, olives, vegetables, and spices.
  • Take a stroll along Boulevard de la Corniche, also known as "Miami" in Morocco because of its beach promenade area.
  • Visit Rick's Café to experience a restaurant that faithfully recreates Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman's iconic café from the renowned movie. Sam can play it again while you sip a cocktail!
  • You'll travel north in the afternoon to Rabat, which is a bustling metropolis with a fascinating history and a number of popular tourist attractions. Rabat was once an imperial city and is now Morocco's capital. Wander past the Roman and Islamic ruins as you explore the medieval fortification of the Chellah Necropolis in the center of Rabat. You'll also travel back in time as you enter the Kasbah des Oudaias, the grand entrance to Rabat's original city center. Even though most of this area is now homes, you can still stroll peacefully down the streets that are painted white and blue.
• From here, explore the Andalusian Gardens from the 20th century and take in the tranquil setting away from the crowds. The Hassan Tower, a minaret of the incomplete mosque, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V are also nearby. Only 200 columns and the 145-foot red sandstone tower remain from this project, which was abandoned in the 12th century (44 meters).

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Day 02

Scenic Drive to Chefchaouen

• Spend the day exploring Chefchaouen's picturesque streets. You'll leave for the Rif Mountains and Chefchaouen in the morning. Enjoy the scenic drive to Chefchaouen as the springtime flat plains and green hills change into the mountainous Rif mountain range. Along the way, you'll pass through a lot of small towns. Translating to "two horns," Chefchaouen is referred to as "chaoeun" by the locals. The two peaks that rise above the hillside are what the town is named after. It is most frequently referred to as "The Blue City" by tourists. The town offers a never-ending maze of charming streets and homes. Compared to the medinas of Fes and Marrakech, you'll notice a significant difference in the atmosphere and friendliness of the locals. The population of Chefchaouen increased in the late 15th century as a result of some Jews and Muslims escaping southern Spain.
• The small medina neighbourhood, which clings to the northern hillside, is where you'll spend the majority of your time, if not all of it. The time will probably fly by as you meander through the narrow streets and alleys. Being respectful of those you pass is a good idea because many locals still reside in these houses.
• The main square, Plaza Outa el Hammam, is located at the bottom and is so named because it used to be surrounded by so many Hammams. Along with a variety of eateries and cafés, this area features intriguing shops. If you enjoy shopping, you can find great deals here because the prices are frequently lower than in Marrakech or Fes.
• Shop until you drop and then explore the Grand Mosque and Kasbah. Although non-Muslims are not permitted inside the mosque, which Moulay Mohamed constructed in 1560, it is still worth visiting to take in the breathtaking architecture. You will proceed to the Kasbah (old fortification) after seeing the Grand Mosque, where you can see a garden, a museum, and some of the old jail cells. You can find a lovely view of the town if you ascend to the roof. It will take between 30 minutes and an hour to complete this visit.
• The Hotel Atlas can be found if you climb the city walls, which have a few gates. You'll be rewarded with a broad view of the blue city from this location. You might have the entire view to yourself since few tourists ascend to this level. There are some switchbacks leading up the mountainside for those who want a longer hike. Asking the hotel is a good idea because these can occasionally be hard to locate.
• You can follow the streets east before passing over the Ras el Ma spring, where the Oued el Kebir river flows beneath the town, as the day comes to an end. There are a few coffee shops nearby that make a nice setting for an afternoon mint tea. The white Spanish Mosque is reached after 20-30 minutes of ascending the hill on the path. You can enjoy a breathtaking view of the setting sun over the Blue City from here.
• Hikes close by: Several nearby hikes' trailheads are only a short drive away, and we recommend planning on at least half a day for these hikes. You can choose between taking a hike along the river to the Cascades d'Akchou waterfall or to the "Bridge of God" rock arch. The trail splits off early, and if you hike for the entire day, you can see both.

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Day 03

To Fes via Volubilis and Meknes

• If you rise early, you can spend an hour exploring the tranquil blue streets while watching the town slowly come to life. Additionally, now is a fantastic time to take pictures of deserted streets. For those hoping to do some last-minute shopping, the majority of the stores don't open until around 10 am.
• You'll leave Chefchaouen behind and head in the direction of Fes. You can choose to take a quick detour to explore the imperial city of Meknes and the Roman ruins of Volubilis.
• The best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco can be found at Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander around the vast complex and discover the temples, enormous merchant homes with still-functioning heating systems, and numerous vibrant mosaics that are still in place. The Roman Empire once had its greatest influence in Africa at Volubilis, which it ruled over for about 200 years. Exotic animals - lions, bears, and elephants - were captured and brought to the capital for feasts, celebrations, and sacrifices, and wheat was grown and exported to the other provinces of the empire.
• Following that, you have the option of taking a second detour to Meknes, a smaller, less crowded version of Fes, where you can explore what may be your first historic imperial city. The Ville Impériale (Imperial City) and the medina are the two main attractions. The Royal Stables, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Bab al-Mansour gate are all located in Ville Impériale. You might want to explore the medina (the Old Town), which is nearby the imperial city and is smaller and simpler to navigate than the medinas in Fes and Marrakech. In addition to the dispersed souks, you might enjoy visiting the Dar Jama Museum, a stunning 19th-century palace turned museum, and the Bou Inania Madrasa, a 14th-century mosque.
• You will reach Fes, the second imperial city of the day, if you keep moving east. Fes is a city that is worth getting lost in because of its imposingly sizable, and occasionally perplexing, old medina. It's worthwhile to drive up the hill and spend some time at the Merenid Tombs, which are located just north of the city, before going into the medina. You can find a comprehensive view of the neighbourhood and the old city of Fes here. You can find your way to your riad - a traditional Moroccan home with an interior garden - after descending the hill, where you can savour a delectable meal and unwind for the evening.

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Day 04

Discover Fes and Its Medieval Medina

• You'll discover more about Fes today, the oldest and possibly most fascinating of Morocco's imperial cities. The medina in Fes is the most comprehensive of its kind in the Arab world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Because Fes was never heavily colonized, much of the city feels as though it has been transported back in time hundreds of years. You decide how to explore Fes and its main attractions, so think about some of these options or ask a local expert for suggestions that appeal to your interests.
• Spend a few days wandering the medina, visiting madrasas (Arabic for educational institutions), and venturing outside the medina walls if you're interested in history and culture and have the time. If your trip is shorter, spending the entire day in the medina and seeing the main sights outside might be sufficient. In either case, hiring a knowledgeable guide for a half-day tour is advised to learn more about this amazing city and assist you in navigating the medina.
• Fes el Bali ("Old Fes") is a fantastic starting point for your journey. When Moulay Idriss I was established in the eighth century, he welcomed displaced people from Kairouan, Tunisia, and Cordoba, southern Spain (both capitals of western Islam at the time). The organic growth of Fes over the following century was greatly influenced by their talent in architecture and craftsmanship, which resulted in the maze-like narrow streets.
• Most of your time and attention will probably be drawn to the charming medina. Compared to other imperial cities, the roads are much more congested, winding, and steep, making it nearly impossible to avoid getting lost at least once. Simply keep moving forward until the volume of people picks up and you reach one of the main streets; this is part of the fun. Shop for a variety of spices, vegetables, leather goods, ceramics, pewter, shoes, scarves, medicines, and other items at the famous souks (markets). Since so many are grouped together, you are almost certain to see artisans at work in their tiny shops.
• Make sure to visit the renowned Chouara Tannery as well, which continues to use age-old methods. You can find a neighbourhood leather shop with a rooftop view to observe the masters at work, and giving the tanner a small donation might help you get access. To remove any remaining fur and soften the leather, the animal hide is first soaked in a solution of pigeon droppings and limestone. The leather is then coloured for about a week in sizable stone vats before being spread out to dry on nearby hillsides or rooftops. Grab some mint leaves to have with you so you can combat the strong odour.
• Make your way to Al-Qarawiyyin University (859 CE), which is one of the oldest still-open universities in the world. It is located next to the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque. There are a few locations where you can get a glimpse of the mosque's elaborate interior, even though it is only accessible to Muslims. From there, proceed to the Al Attarine Madrasa or the Bou Inania Madrasa, two magnificent examples of Moroccan architecture and craftsmanship featuring intricate zellij tilework contrasted with dark cedarwood from the 14th century. You can go upstairs to see some former student residences with beautiful views.
• From here, enter Fes el Bali through the imposing Bab Boujeloud, the gate that welcomes you from the west. The exterior is the traditional colour of Fes, blue, and the interior is green, the colour for Islam.
• Leaving the gate and proceeding down Talâa Kebira's main street, which is lined with stores, treat yourself to some retail therapy or visit the Musée Batha, which has a stunning central garden and many Moroccan arts, including carved wood and traditional pottery, its highlight. Fes el Jedid ("New Fes"), constructed in the 13th century when the Merenid Dynasty rose to power, is located southwest of and uphill from the old city.
• You can visit the Batha Museum in Fes el Jedid. A collection of traditional Moroccan arts and crafts, including carved wood, zellij, and regional pottery, are on display at the museum, which is housed in a 19th-century palace, its highlight. Before going to the Mellah, you can spend some time in the gardens designed in the style of Andalusia (old Jewish quarter and cemetery). Utilize its location to capture a breathtaking panoramic image of the city.
• After that, you can travel further south to Ville Nouvelle to see the striking architectural transformation. To see how regional artisans create their products, from moulding the clay to painting the designs, you could also take a tour of a Ceramics and Tile Collective. You can observe the master tile fitters as they assemble tiny tiles to create intricate mosaics. The Merenid Tombs in the north or Borj Sud in the south are the ideal places to watch the sunset after a day of exploring Fes. Both vantage points provide breathtaking views of this vibrant city with enduring roots.

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Day 05

Journey to Erfoud and Camel Ride at Sunset

• You'll depart from Fes and head south toward Merzouga, where you'll get to the Saharan dunes in time for a camel ride at dusk. You'll pass through the town of Azrou on the way up, climbing 2,178 meters (7,146 feet) over the Col du Zad pass and through the Middle Atlas mountain cedar forests. Before stopping for lunch in Midelt, also known as "The Apple City," where you can savour the nearby Moulouya River and its surrounding fruit orchards, you can enjoy sightings of the neighbourhood Barbary macaque monkeys.
• Following that, you'll cross the Tizi n'Talrhemt Ass and enter the Ziz Valley, which is renowned for its secluded oases and clumps of palm trees. Ksars, or fortified houses, are common along the road and were constructed by traders to guard valuables like gold, salt, and spices.
• You'll spot the first indications of the constantly shifting Saharan sand dunes just before arriving in Erfoud. Along with nomadic shepherds' settlements, you'll also see an antiquated technique for extracting water, a clever way of getting water to farmland before modern pumps, and an ancient method of water mining. If time permits, you might be able to have tea with a local Berber family who lives as nomads.
• You can then go on to Erfoud, a thriving market town famous for its date festival, fossil mining, and artisan factories, and you may have already seen some fossils in the markets. When you arrive in town, stop at a local artisan collective to learn about the different kinds of fossils found there and to witness the entire process of how the fossil-rich rock is transformed into lovely objects, both large and small. Along the way, you can see hillside mines where big rocks are extracted from the earth.
• You'll soon encounter the vast sea of sand dunes known as Erg Chebbi, which is 13.5 square miles in size (35 square km). The enormous dunes are never still; they constantly move and shift in response to the shifting wind. Additionally, they seem to change colour with the time of day, and the colours are particularly vibrant just before sunset.
• You can take a quick break close to Merzouga and change your route to ride a camel through the sand to your already-set-up camp, arriving just before dusk. After watching the sunset from atop a nearby sand dune, head back to camp for a delicious dinner and some time by the campfire. After an evening of Berber music, you can anticipate spending the night in a tent a la Bedouin under a vast night sky with the Milky Way twinkling above.
• Spend the night in a cosy hotel or auberge in Merzouga if four walls and contemporary comfort are more your style.

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Day 06

Sahara Morning, Dades Valley and Ouarzazate

• We advise waking up early to prepare for a breathtaking sunrise over the sand dunes before crawling out of your tent. Spend the morning after breakfast discovering more of the Sahara. You can rent a sandboard and test your skills on the dunes, take an Erg Shibi tour (which circles the dunes), sign up for an ATV tour, or just unwind by the pool.
• Visit the traditional Saharan village of Khamleya, whose inhabitants are from Mali, to end your morning. Before taking a leisurely stroll around the village and its sand-based farming plots, you can enjoy the local music, dancing, and drumming here. It's a good idea to stop in Rissani, another market town with an impressive gate at the town's entrance, as you depart the Merzouga region. Visit the traditional stalls, take in the livestock auctions, and stop by the "parking lot" for donkeys.
• Take in the fantastic view of the nearby towns that cling to the side of the green river oasis, which is filled with lush palm trees, as you travel further through the desert to the town of Tinerhir. Impressive buttes, mesas, and plateaus can be seen in the area's desert landscape. You'll also visit the Todra Gorge, which has stunning red-stained limestones and is 984 feet (300 meters) high. You can take a leisurely stroll through the gorge here or unwind in the cool water of the nearby shallow river.
• Then, your route passes through the fortified complex known as the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, where former chiefs and landowners used to reside. You'll pass by various farms, many of which are still run the old-fashioned way, and probably see nomads herding camels, goats, and sheep. After that, you'll travel through the Dades Valley, which is known for its rose bushes, which are used to produce rose oil and rose water, and its cultivated farmland. You might catch the annual Rose Festival, which honours the crop for the year, if you're in town in May. You can watch the distillation process if you stop at the rose collective. You might even come across boys selling various rose-related crafts along the roadside.
• You can also stop in Ouarzazate, a well-liked location for local and Hollywood productions. Here, you can take a tour of one of the two film studios to get a close-up look at the sets and props. After that, you can learn more about the local film industry at the Musée du Cinema. If the surrounding scenery looks familiar, it might be because Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and Game of Thrones all used this location as a backdrop over the past century.

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Day 07

Aït Benhaddou and the Road to Marrakech

• Your day will begin in At Benhaddou, the most well-known Kasbah in Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is thought to have been built in the eleventh century. Look out for Mount Toubkal, the High Atlas's tallest peak at 13,671 feet, as you ascend and cross it (4,167 meters). You can also take in magnificent panoramic views of the mountain range and the road ahead as it winds its way down the mountainside close to the top of the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass.
• After the pass, Taddert is the first town you'll encounter. Here, you can stop at an oil cooperative to find out how olives are prepared for various uses. You can resume driving after trying a few of the goods. You'll notice a significant change in climate and landscape as you leave the mountains, with river valleys carved into the hillsides. You will soon be amidst the commotion and clamour of vibrant Marrakech after all the peace and quiet of the mountains and desert.
• Check into your hotel and unwind before venturing back out in the early evening when the main square, Jemaa el Fna, comes alive with performers, games, food stalls, snake charmers, and more. Wander among the stalls, vendors, and performers, or observe it all from afar while sitting in a nearby café, taking in the show and a mouthwatering meal.

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Day 08

Explore Marrakech and Departure

• You might have time in the morning before leaving for Marrakech Menara Airport, depending on the time of your flight. If so, here is some background information on the city and its top attractions. The vibrant sights, sounds, and smells of Marrakech, Morocco's second-largest city, will undoubtedly shock your senses. The stunning natural red ochre pigment in the walls of "The Red City" is its claim to fame. If you have the time, think about hiring a knowledgeable guide for a half-day tour of the history, culture, and secret attractions of the medina.
• The souks are to the north, the Koutoubia Mosque and Gardens are to the west, and the Kasbah area with the Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, and El Badi Palace are to the south. This will help you understand the layout. The Majorelle Gardens are located in the Ville Nouvelle.
• Spend some time in Jemaa el Fna Square, which starts to fill in the late afternoon with musicians, storytellers, acrobats, dancers, henna artists, and snake charmers, if your flight is later in the evening. As dusk falls, a long line of food stands will start to emerge, offering everything from complete meals to fruit drinks, dried dates, and tiny snacks. Look for one of the many cafés that are located above the square for a more laid-back experience and have a meal or a cup of tea while you take in the performance below. On a Caliche horse carriage, you can also take a stylish tour of the neighbourhood.
• The striking minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque across Avenue Mohammed V will greet you if your flight is earlier in the day. If so, head west from Jemaa el Fna. Non-Muslims can still admire the mosque's stunning exterior even though Muslims are not permitted to enter. On the mosque's north side, you can see the original building's foundations, which had to be rebuilt in order for it to properly align with Mecca.
• You can also take a stroll through the lovely Koutoubia Gardens, which are located behind the mosque and feature fountains, pools, palm trees, and flowerbeds. When the late-day sun glows on the minaret, it's the ideal location for a stroll in the late afternoon. Additionally, exploring the medina's souks, markets, and alleys is very worthwhile. There are many covered areas, which can provide a welcome break from the heat. You might want to check out the following souks: Souk el Attarin (spices), Souk Haddadine (blacksmiths), and Souk Smata (cloth) (slippers). The Souk des Teinturiers, or dyers' souk, is one souk you shouldn't miss. In this location, you can observe people dyeing yarn and cloth, which will later be hung above the streets to dry in the afternoon. Nearby, there are a lot of stores selling rugs and leather goods.
• Many of the alleys have spacious courtyards and open areas. Historically, the upper floors of these Fondouks served as inns for travelling traders and merchants, while the lower floors were reserved for their animals. Today, some of them have been transformed into homes, while others are sizable shopping malls and open-air workshops.
• If you want to get away from the crowds, visit the exquisitely restored Medersa Ben Youssef (Koranic school), which was built in the sixteenth century and formerly served as housing for students of the nearby Ben Youssef Mosque. Inside, you can explore the former dorms, where up to 800 students once resided, take in the central courtyard's carved cedar, stucco plaster, and zellij tiling, and see the prayer hall.