8 Days Tour from Casablanca Imperial cites and Desert

Traveling through Morocco in just over a week might seem ambitious, but with this well-structured 8-day tour from Casablanca, it’s entirely possible to soak in the country’s most iconic sights and hidden gems. Designed by Gboo Morocco Tours, this journey promises a mix of city exploration, ancient medinas, desert adventures, and mountain vistas—all in comfort and style.

What truly sets this tour apart are the professional guides and drivers, the opportunity to see Morocco’s architectural marvels, and the chance to experience the vast Sahara dunes in a way that feels both authentic and manageable. The well-selected accommodations in charming riads and hotels also add to the overall value, making this a compelling option for those who want a balance of guided discovery and free time.

That said, the tour involves long days and considerable travel distances, which might not suit travelers looking for a more relaxed pace. It’s best suited for those who enjoy active days, culture, and are comfortable with a moderately packed itinerary. If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Morocco, this tour could be an excellent choice.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with private transport, hotel stays, and some meals
• Highlights major cities and landmarks, including Fez, Marrakech, and Casablanca
• Authentic experiences like camel trekking, visiting the oldest medina, and exploring the Sahara dunes
• Guided tours and expert commentary enrich the cultural journey
• Long travel days require stamina and patience
• Perfect for travelers eager to combine city life, history, and desert adventure in one trip

A Close Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Your Moroccan adventure begins with a pickup from Casablanca airport, where the tour company takes care of logistics. You’ll be transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay—perfect for resting after your journey. It’s a low-key start, offering flexibility depending on your arrival time, and setting the tone for a smooth trip.

Day 2: Casablanca to Fez via Rabat

The real excitement kicks off with a morning visit to Hassan II Mosque, one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors. Built in 1993, its intricate craftsmanship and seaside location make it a highlight. The review mentions the impression of the mosque’s size and detail, adding that the guides are well-informed, enriching the experience.

Next, the tour heads to Rabat, Morocco’s political capital. Here, you’ll see the Hassan Tower, an iconic minaret, and visit the Mausoleum of Mohamed V—both impressive sights that showcase Morocco’s architectural finesse. The Kasbah des Oudaias offers a peaceful walk through narrow alleyways and traditional houses, providing a taste of the old city life.

The day wraps up with a transfer to Fes, where you’ll spend the night in a carefully chosen riad. According to reviews, the accommodations tend to be well-located and comfortable, making it easier to explore the next day.

Day 3: Discovering the Old Medina of Fes

Walking through Fes’s medina, you’ll get a real sense of Morocco’s history. The visit includes the Royal Palace gate, the Jewish Mellah, Al Quaraouiyine University (believed to be one of the world’s oldest), and the Tanneries, famous for their vibrant dye pits and authentic medieval methods. Reviewers mention that the guide’s knowledge enhances understanding of these sites’ significance.

Special attention is given to local crafts like tile-making at Art D’Argile and leather in the tannery, which are not only visually captivating but also great shopping opportunities.

The Medersa Bou Inania impresses with its fine mosaics and carved plasterwork, encapsulating the craftsmanship Morocco is known for. The Marinid Tombs offer panoramic views over the city—an ideal spot for photos, especially at sunset, as one reviewer noted.

Day 4: From Fes to the Sahara Desert

This day involves a scenic drive southward, starting with Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine architecture and lush surroundings. The stop at Azrou’s cedar forest offers a fun wildlife encounter, with monkeys roaming freely—a delightful surprise for many travelers.

The journey continues through Midelt, with a lunch break, before crossing the Tizi N Talghamt pass and enjoying breathtaking views of Ziz Gorges. The highlight is reaching Merzouga, where the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi await. Here, the camel trek at sunset is a standout experience—an opportunity to see the desert’s vastness and beauty.

Overnight in a desert camp, you’ll dine under the stars to the soundtrack of Sahara music. Reviewers mention the authenticity and tranquility of this overnight stay, making it a memorable desert experience.

Day 5: Sunrise in the Sahara and Gorges of Tineghir

Waking early for a desert sunrise, you’ll ride your camel back to the camp, feeling the cool dawn air and the enormity of the dunes. After breakfast, the journey takes you through Tineghir, where the Todra Gorges provide dramatic scenery for hiking and photography—an experience reviewers loved, describing the views as “marvelous.”

The day ends in Boumalne Dades, with dinner and an overnight stay, offering a peaceful contrast to the desert’s energy.

Day 6: From Dades Valley to Marrakech

The drive begins with a visit to the Valley of the Roses, known for its fragrant rosewater and scenic beauty. The Skoura palm grove is another highlight, with hundreds of thousands of palms creating a lush landscape.

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi Ntichka pass, you’ll gain spectacular mountain vistas—an unmissable part of the journey. Your arrival in Marrakech sets the stage for lively markets, historic sites, and vibrant street life.

Day 7: Exploring Marrakech

A guided tour of Marrakech’s medina reveals key sites like the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and Saadian Tombs. Reviewers mention the benefit of a knowledgeable guide who makes the city’s stories come alive, adding context to each stop.

You’ll also visit Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, perfect for those interested in art and fashion. The evening in Jemaa el-Fnaa square offers vibrant street performances, storytellers, and a chance to soak in the city’s lively atmosphere.

Day 8: Return to Casablanca

The final day involves a transfer back to Casablanca, with drop-off at the airport to conclude your trip. This allows for a relaxed end, knowing your transport is organized and comfortable.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

Transportation: The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, which is essential given the long drives. The reviews highlight that the driver, Mohamed, was “cautious, professional, and helpful,” making the extensive travel less stressful.

Accommodations: Staying in carefully selected hotels and riads provides a comfortable base after busy days. Reviewers appreciated the central locations, which made evening exploration easier.

Guides: The importance of knowledgeable guides cannot be overstated. They bring historical sites alive and offer insights you simply can’t get from a guidebook.

Meals: Breakfasts are included most days, with some dinners provided. Lunches are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local eateries or pack snacks.

Cost and Value: At around $3,023 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with high-quality services. Considering the inclusions—transport, accommodations, some meals, and guided visits—this price reflects good value for the depth and variety of sights covered.

Flexibility & Pace: The long days and busy schedule mean this trip suits energetic travelers who don’t mind moving from dawn to dusk. If you prefer a slow-paced trip, some days might feel a bit rushed.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This Morocco tour is ideal for travelers eager to see the country’s highlights without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s perfect for those who enjoy structured guided tours, appreciate cultural and historic sites, and are comfortable with a packed itinerary. The inclusion of desert nights, mountain drives, and city exploration makes it well-rounded for adventure lovers and history buffs alike.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking a very relaxed pace or those with mobility issues, given the amount of walking and driving involved. Also, if you’re sensitive to long travel days, consider whether you’re prepared for extensive distances.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a thorough introduction to Morocco’s most iconic sights, this 8-day adventure delivers. The expert guides and drivers make the journey smooth, while the quality accommodations and authentic experiences like the Sahara camel trek keep things memorable.

Travelers who want a balanced mix of city, mountain, and desert scenery will find this trip rewarding. It offers a great value for those willing to embrace the busy schedule and enjoy a wide-ranging exploration of Moroccan culture, history, and landscapes.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a deeper appreciation, this tour is a solid choice to cover much ground in one well-organized trip.

FAQs

• How many days does the tour last?

The tour lasts for approximately 8 days, including arrival and departure days.

• Are airport transfers included?

Yes, pickup from Casablanca airport on the first day and drop-off at the airport on the final day are included.

• What’s the tour price?

The cost is around $3,023.03 per person, covering transport, selected accommodations, and some meals.

• Can I expect to stay in comfortable hotels?

Yes, the tour includes overnights in carefully chosen hotels and riads, often centrally located for easy access to sights.

• What sites are visited in Casablanca?

The Hassan II Mosque and the Hassan Tower are featured, with the option to explore more if time permits.

• Is there free time during the tour?

The itinerary is packed with guided visits, but in Marrakech, you have some free time to explore on your own.

• Are meals included?

Breakfasts are included on most days, with two dinners provided. Lunches are not included, offering flexibility.

• How physically demanding is this tour?

Moderate physical fitness is recommended; expect walking through medinas, some uphill climbs, and camel rides.

• What is the group size?

This is a private tour activity, so only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

• What should I pack?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a scarf for the tannery, and layers for mountain and desert climates.

This 8-day Morocco tour offers a thoughtfully curated journey, blending culture, adventure, and comfort. It’s a fantastic way to capture the essence of this vibrant country in a manageable timeframe.