10 Days Grand Tour to Discover Morocco Casablanca to Marrakech

10 Days Grand Tour to Discover Morocco

Explore Morocco’s magical landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cities with this 10-day grand tour from Morocco Casablanca to Marrakech. This journey takes you through Morocco’s Imperial Cities, the scenic Atlas Mountains, and the mesmerizing Sahara Desert. This guide is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Morocco’s heritage, natural beauty, and culture.

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Gateway to Morocco

Your adventure begins in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. Known for its blend of modern and traditional architecture, Casablanca offers a great introduction to Moroccan culture and lifestyle.

Highlights of Casablanca:

Hassan II Mosque – One of the world’s largest mosques with breathtaking ocean views and intricate details.
The Corniche – A lively promenade along the Atlantic coast with restaurants, cafes, and ocean views.
Habous Quarter – A charming neighborhood with traditional Moroccan markets and French colonial architecture.

After exploring Casablanca, relax overnight in a local hotel as you prepare for the journey ahead.

Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat – The Capital City

From Casablanca, make your way to Rabat, Morocco’s elegant capital, known for its historical sites and coastal beauty.

Top Sites in Rabat:

Kasbah of the Udayas – A fortress with stunning views over the Bou Regreg River and the Atlantic Ocean.
Hassan Tower – An unfinished mosque with a stunning minaret dating back to the 12th century.
Mausoleum of Mohammed V – A beautifully designed resting place for King Mohammed V and his sons.

End the day with a comfortable stay in Rabat.

Day 3: Rabat to Meknes and Volubilis – Ancient History Unveiled

Travel from Rabat to the imperial city of Meknes, famous for its impressive gates and royal stables, then continue to Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an ancient Roman city.

Meknes and Volubilis Highlights:

Bab Mansour Gate – Known for its grand scale and intricate zellij (tilework).
Royal Stables – A vast structure built to house the sultan’s horses.
Volubilis Ruins – Marvel at the well-preserved Roman ruins, mosaics, and columns.

Spend the night in nearby Meknes, embracing its historical ambiance.

Day 4: Meknes to Fez – Morocco’s Spiritual and Cultural Hub

Next, journey to Fez, Morocco’s oldest and most spiritual city. Known for its medieval medina and centuries-old craftsmanship, Fez is a highlight of any Moroccan tour.

Must-See Sites in Fez:

Fez el-Bali (Old Medina) – A sprawling, ancient medina full of winding alleys, souks, and historic architecture.
Al Quaraouiyine University – The world’s oldest operating university, established in 859 AD.
Chouara Tannery – See traditional leather-dyeing methods at this iconic tannery.

Fez’s unique charm and historical depth make it an unforgettable destination. Enjoy an overnight stay in a traditional riad.

Day 5: Full Day in Fez – Immersive Exploration

Dedicate a full day to uncovering more of Fez’s hidden gems. The old medina is a living museum of Moroccan life, culture, and history.

Additional Places to Explore:

Bou Inania Madrasa – A historic Islamic school with impressive tilework and wood carvings.
Dar Batha Museum – Showcasing Moroccan arts and crafts, including ceramics, textiles, and woodwork.
Jewish Quarter (Mellah) – A glimpse into Fez’s Jewish heritage, with historic synagogues and unique architecture.

Wind down your day with an authentic Moroccan dinner before a second overnight in Fez.

Day 6: Fez to Midelt – The Gateway to the High Atlas

Leave Fez and head south towards Midelt, a peaceful town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of lush valleys and rugged mountains.

Highlights Along the Way:

Cedar Forests – A chance to see Morocco’s cedar forests, home to Barbary macaque monkeys.
Atlas Mountain Views – Enjoy the changing landscape and stunning vistas of the Atlas ranges.

Relax and enjoy an overnight stay in Midelt, preparing for your Sahara adventure.

Day 7: Midelt to Merzouga – The Edge of the Sahara

From Midelt, continue your journey through the Ziz Valley towards Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. The Ziz Valley’s palm groves and oases offer a refreshing contrast to the surrounding desert.

Arriving in Merzouga:

Upon arrival in Merzouga, prepare for a memorable experience: a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Witness the surreal beauty of the sunset over the desert sands before reaching your desert camp.

Desert Camp Experience:

Camel Trek – Journey through the dunes on camelback, embracing the timeless charm of desert travel.
Desert Camp – Spend the night in a traditional Berber tent under the vast, star-filled sky.

Enjoy traditional Berber music and a hearty dinner before retiring in your camp.

Day 8: Merzouga to Todra Gorge and Dades Valley

After watching the sunrise over the dunes, depart from Merzouga and travel to the Todra Gorge, a natural wonder with towering rock cliffs.

Highlights of the 10 Days Tour Morocco Casablanca to Marrakech:

Todra Gorge – A stunning canyon with steep, red rock walls ideal for hiking and photography.
Dades Valley – Known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” this scenic valley is dotted with old fortresses and offers incredible views.

Stay overnight in the Dades Valley, surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes.

Day 9: Dades Valley to Marrakech via Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou

On day nine, travel from the Dades Valley to Marrakech, with stops in Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou. Known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” Ouarzazate is famous for its film studios, while Ait Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic ksar (fortified village).

Key Stops:

Ait Benhaddou – A beautiful ancient ksar used as a filming location for movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Ouarzazate Film Studios – Known for hosting international film productions, including Lawrence of Arabia and The Mummy.

After a scenic drive through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, arrive in Marrakech and check in to your accommodation.

Day 10: Full Day in Marrakech – The Vibrant Red City

End your journey with a full day to explore Marrakech, known for its bustling souks, historic palaces, and vibrant street life.

Highlights of Marrakech:

Jemaa el-Fnaa – The city’s main square, famous for its lively atmosphere, street performances, and food stalls.
Koutoubia Mosque – Marrakech’s largest mosque, with a towering minaret visible across the city.
Bahia Palace – A beautiful palace with ornate courtyards and lush gardens.
Majorelle Garden – A peaceful oasis created by French artist Jacques Majorelle, later owned by Yves Saint Laurent.

As evening approaches, enjoy a farewell dinner in the medina, savoring the flavors of Moroccan cuisine.