17 days Morocco Grand Tour from Casablanca
17-Day Grand Morocco Tour from Casablanca: Experience the best of Morocco over seventeen days and sixteen nights, exploring Marrakech, Chefchaouen, Taroudant, Essaouira, Fes, and the Sahara Desert.
Highlights: 17 days Morocco Grand Tour from Casablanca
Schedule: 17 days Morocco Grand Tour from Casablanca
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN CASABLANCA – RABAT
DAY 2: RABAT – CHEFCHAOUEN
DAY 3: CHEFCHAOUEN SIGHTSEEING
DAY 4: CHEFCHAOUEN – FES
DAY 5: FES SIGHTSEEING
DAY 6: FES – MERZOUGA
DAY 7: MERZOUGA
DAY 8: MERZOUGA – OUZINA DESERT
DAY 9: OUZINA – DADES VALLEY
DAY 10: DADES VALLEY – OUARZAZATE
DAY 11: OUARZAZATE – AIT BEN HADDOU - TAROUDANT
DAY 12: TAROUDANT - AGADIR - ESSAOUIRA
DAY 13: ESSAOUIRA SIGHTSEEING
DAY 14: ESSAOUIRA – MARRAKECH
DAY 15: MARRAKECH – SIGHTSEEING
DAY 16: DAY TRIP TO OURIKA VALLEY
DAY 17: DEPARTURE TO MARRAKECH AIRPORT OR CASABLANCA AIRPORT
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Description
Tour overview: 17 days Morocco Grand Tour from Casablanca
Embark on a 17-day odyssey through the heart of Morocco, where ancient traditions and breathtaking landscapes converge in a symphony of colors and cultures. Begin in Casablanca, where the majestic Hassan II Mosque kisses the Atlantic, and journey through the storied streets of Rabat, the serene blue of Chefchaouen, and the historical grandeur of Meknes. Wander the labyrinthine alleys of Fes, feel the magic of the Sahara under a starlit sky, and traverse the dramatic Todra Gorge. Marvel at the fortified beauty of Aït Benhaddou, the lush valleys of roses, and the coastal charm of Essaouira. Conclude your adventure in the bustling, vibrant soul of Marrakech, where every corner tells a tale of ancient mystique and timeless beauty. This journey is a tapestry woven with moments of wonder, offering an intimate glimpse into the soul of Morocco.
Itinerary : 17 days Morocco Grand Tour from Casablanca
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Rabat
Our 17 days Morocco Grand Tour from Casablanca strat by greetings you at the airport upon your arrival in Casablanca and escort you to the city center, where you will get your first views of the Moroccan countryside. Our first stop will be the Hassan II Mosque, a stunning architectural marvel and one of the largest mosques in the world. The mosque is remarkable for its location, built on a promontory looking out to the Atlantic Ocean. The guided tour of the mosque takes an hour and offers an insightful introduction to Moroccan craftsmanship and religious architecture.
After the mosque visit, we will continue our journey to Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. In Rabat, you'll settle into a beautiful riad located in the heart of the medina. You will have the evening free to wander the narrow streets, soaking in the local atmosphere and getting a first taste of Moroccan life.
Day 2: Rabat – Chefchaouen
After a traditional Moroccan breakfast in the riad, we start the day with a visit to the Hassan Tower, a minaret of an incomplete mosque initiated by the Almohad ruler, Yacoub al-Mansour. Adjacent to the tower is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a stunning example of modern Alaouite dynasty architecture where the king and his sons are entombed. Our next stop is the ancient Chellah, a historic fortified Muslim necropolis and an ancient Roman site.
In the afternoon, we will drive to Chefchaouen. The journey takes us through picturesque landscapes, from the motorway to the mountain roads. We will pass through Ouazzane and later through the stunning Rif Mountains before reaching Chefchaouen. Upon arrival, settle into your guest house and spend the evening exploring the enchanting blue-washed streets, relaxing in the cafés, and experiencing the unique charm of this mountain town.
Day 3: Chefchaouen Sightseeing
Chefchaouen, known for its striking blue and white buildings, is one of Morocco's most beautiful cities. Today, you will explore its picturesque medina at your own pace. Key attractions include:
-Plaza Uta el-Hammam: The main square surrounded by cafés and restaurants, where you can admire the Kasbah and the Grand Mosque.
- Chefchaouen Medina: Wander through the narrow, blue-painted streets, discovering local craft shops selling textiles, pottery, and souvenirs.
- Kasbah Museum: A small museum within the Kasbah showcasing local history and culture.
- Spanish Mosque: A 30-minute hike offering panoramic views of the city and countryside.
- Akchour Waterfalls: If time permits, consider a day trip to these stunning waterfalls in the Rif Mountains, where you can enjoy a refreshing hike and natural beauty.
Return to your riad for a restful night.
Day 4: Chefchaouen – Fes
After breakfast, we will leave for Fes. The journey takes us through the scenic Rif Mountains, green farms, and rolling landscapes. En route, we will stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Volubilis, the expansive Roman ruins offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient history. You can hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the site.
Next, we will visit the holy town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, where you can explore the main square and the local shops. From there, we continue our journey through the hills to Fes. Upon arrival, you will have dinner and spend the night in a beautiful riad.
Day 5: Fes Sightseeing
Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Fes, Morocco's oldest imperial city. Begin with a visit to Fes El Bali (Old Fes), where you can explore:
- Bou Inania Madrasa: An exquisite example of Moroccan architecture.
- Kairaouine Mosque and University: Founded in 859, it is one of the oldest universities in the world.
- Leather Tanneries: Learn about the traditional process of leather making.
- Fes El Jdid (New Fes): Visit the Jewish quarter, the Mellah, and the Museum of Moroccan Arts.
Spend the rest of the day wandering the vibrant medina, shopping for silver, pottery, and leather goods. Return to your riad for the night.
Day 6: Fes – Merzouga
Departing Fes, we travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing Ifrane, known for its Swiss-like architecture and snowfall. Near Azrou, in the cedar forests, you may encounter Barbary apes. Continue over the Tizi-n-Talghemt pass to the Ziz Valley, renowned for its palm groves and Ksars (fortified villages).
We will then pass through Errachidia and Erfoud, famous for its date festival and fossils. Our journey continues to Rissani and finally to the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga. Here, you will ride camels to your luxury desert camp, where you can climb the dunes to watch a spectacular sunset. Dinner will be served at the camp, followed by a night under the stars in a private tent with all comforts.
Day 7: Merzouga
Today, you have two options to explore the desert. You can either take a full-day camel trek, enjoying lunch prepared by your camel man amidst the dunes, or opt for a half-day 4x4 tour around the Erg Chebbi dunes. Visit Khamlia village to experience traditional Gnawa music and share tea with nomadic Berbers. Return to the camp for dinner and an evening of music around the campfire. Spend the night in your private tent.
Day 8: Merzouga – Ouzina Desert
After an unforgettable night in our berber camp, if you get up early enough, you will be able to admire the other charming postcard of our 17 days Morocco Grand Tour from Casablanca, the impressive image of the sunrise in the Sahara and the sunrise between the dunes.
After living this magical experience in the desert, we will get back on the back of our camels to return to the lodge.
We will continue our route around 10 am, we will make the panoramic tour of the dunes of Erg Chebbi and then continue to the village of Mifis where we will visit the mines of lime and barytes, until we reach the village of Khamlia, between Merzouga and Taouz. In the area it is known as "the village of the blacks".
A village where the inhabitants are called Gnawas, musicians of sub-Saharan origin, who will delight us with music and dances, while we savor a mint tea, where in addition to enjoying their Gnawa music, originally from Sub-Saharan Africa, we will have the opportunity to taste the famous Berber pizza.
For lunch, we will head to the village of Khamlia. Then we will continue to Taouz, where we will enter to begin our journey through the famous track of the old Dakar Rally, a journey in which we will enjoy breathtaking views where we will also have the opportunity to see some wonderful rock engravings. We will go to the village of Jdaid and in the afternoon we will arrive at the Ouzina desert.
Accommodation in berber Kasbah with dinner and breakfast
Day 9: Ouzina – Dades Valley
After breakfast, our journey continues through the town of Rissani, once the thriving center of the ancient Sahara caravans. We'll traverse a semi-desert landscape until we reach the oasis of Tinghir, a truly stunning location in Morocco. Following the Todra River, we'll arrive at the awe-inspiring Todra Gorges, towering over 300 meters high. Take some time to explore the village and soak in the breathtaking scenery.
Continuing our 17 days Morocco Grand Tour from Casablanca adventure, we'll embark on the route of the Thousand Kasbahs, arriving at the picturesque Dades Valley, where we will spend the night in Kasbah or Hotel.
Day 10: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate
After breakfast, visit the Dades Gorges and then travel off-road along the Boutaghrar piste to meet Berber nomads in their caves. Continue through the Valley of the Roses, visiting Kasbah Amredhil in Skoura. In the afternoon, we'll reach Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Morocco." Here, we'll visit the Taourirt Kasbah, considered one of the most beautiful kasbahs in the country. Enjoy dinner and spend the night at a charming riad.
Day 11: Ouarzazate – Ait ben Haddou - Taroudant
After breakfast, we'll head to Kasbah Ait ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s seven World Heritage sites and the backdrop for many Hollywood blockbusters. This is the most famous Kasbah in Morocco, with some buildings dating back to the 17th century. From there, we drive through the stunning Ounila Valley, a route filled with twists and turns, vibrant rock and soil hues, Berber villages, gardens, and smaller Kasbahs.
After a guided tour, we'll begin our journey through the stunning Atlas landscapes.
Our route will lead us northward to the region of Taznakht, where you'll have leisure time to savor the delectable Berber cuisine. Following a delightful lunch, we'll continue our voyage to Taliouine, renowned as the saffron city, nestled in the province of Taroudant.
As we proceed, you'll uncover the hidden treasures of Morocco's awe-inspiring interior. Your adventure of today will conclude with a drop-off by our driver at your riad in Taroudant.
Day 12: Taroudant - Agadir - Essaouira
Travel to Essaouira via Agadir, passing through the rugged Atlantic coastline. Explore the protected forests of argan trees and arrive in Essaouira, where you can choose between traditional riad accommodation or a luxury boutique hotel. Overnight in Essaouira.
Day 13: Essaouira Sightseeing
You will have the day free to explore Essaouira. The beach is a nice place to walk or run. It's also a great place to enjoy a sunset horseback ride. Some locals offer camel rides on the beach. For the sport-oriented traveler, Essaouira is home to some wind and kitesurfing schools. Beyond the beach, you can spend hours in its charming medina: it is worth exploring artisans, small shops, hidden corners and the occasional terrace where you can enjoy a relaxing mint tea. Tonight can be a good time to enjoy a plate of fresh local fish as fishing is one of the strongest sources of economy in this region.
Accommodation in a riad with breakfast.
Day 14: Essaouira – Marrakech
After breakfast, we drive to Marrakech. The route offers beautiful coastal and countryside views. Upon arrival, check into your riad and spend the rest of the day exploring Marrakech at your own pace.
Day 15: Marrakech – Sightseeing
Spend the day exploring Marrakech. Visit Djemaa el Fna, the Majorelle Garden, the Koutoubia Mosque, el Bahia Palace, Ben Youssef Medersa, the Saadian tombs, and the Mellah. Experience the vibrant culture, colors, and history of the city. Overnight in a riad.
Day 16: Day trip to Ourika Valley
The Ourika Valley is located in the High Atlas Mountains, just a short drive from Marrakech. The valley is known for its beautiful landscape, with the Setti Fatma waterfalls being a major attraction. There are also several Berber villages located in the valley, where visitors can learn about traditional Moroccan culture and way of life.
A day trip to the Ourika Valley is a great way to experience the beauty of the region and get a taste of traditional Moroccan culture. Our tour operator makes it easy to experience all that this beautiful region has to offer.
During your day trip, you'll have the opportunity to explore the valley and its stunning natural beauty. Hike through the mountains and valleys, taking in the panoramic views and spotting local Berber villages along the way. You'll also visit the famous Setti Fatma waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the pools at the base of the cascades.
After a day of exploring, you'll enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch, complete with delicious local dishes and refreshing mint tea. And, when the day is over, you'll return to Marrakech, feeling rejuvenated and inspired by your experience in the Ourika Valley.
Day 17: Departure to Marrakech airport or Casablanca airport
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight and end of our 17 days Morocco Grand Tour from Casablanca.