The Grand Moroccan Expedition 16 Days Tour From Casablanca

Overview

A perfect 2-day desert getaway from Marrakech, this adventure takes you through the High Atlas Mountains, into the heart of southern Morocco, and into the Zagora Desert—the gateway to the Sahara. Along the way, discover historic kasbahs, wind through the dramatic Draa Valley, and experience the serenity of the desert on a sunset camel trek, ending the day under a sky full of stars in a traditional nomadic camp. Ideal for travelers short on time but seeking a rich desert experience.

Tour Highlights – 2-Day Zagora Desert Tour from Marrakech

• Drive across the High Atlas Mountains via the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m)

• Visit the iconic Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and film location for Gladiator and Game of Thrones

• Explore Ouarzazate, home to the Atlas Film Studios and Kasbah Taourirt, once residence of the powerful Glaoui family

• Travel through the lush palm groves of the Draa Valley, the longest valley in Morocco

• Experience a camel trek at sunset through the sand dunes of Zagora Desert

• Spend the night in a traditional Berber desert camp, with local music and Moroccan cuisine

• Wake up to an unforgettable sunrise over the desert dunes

• Enjoy personalized stops and scenic photo opportunities throughout the journey

Tour Details

Destination: Zagora Desert, Draa Valley & Historic Kasbahs
Departure Location: Any location in Marrakech
Return Location: Any location in Marrakech
Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
Price: Varies depending on the number of travelers

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival – Casablanca

Upon arrival at Casablanca Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel where a complimentary meal awaits. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore Casablanca’s highlights such as the iconic Hassan II Mosque, the Moroccan Mall shopping center, and nearby beaches.

Day 2: Casablanca – Rabat – Meknes

Begin with a visit to the majestic Hassan II Mosque. Then travel to Morocco’s capital, Rabat, where you will explore the Royal Palace, the ruins of Chellah, the Mohammed V Mausoleum, Hassan Tower, and stroll through the medina and souks. Later, continue to Meknes, enjoying dinner overlooking the square near the impressive Bab el Mansour gate.

Day 3: Meknes – Volubilis – Fes

Visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before heading to Fes. Overnight stay will be at a traditional local Riad.

Day 4: Exploring Fes

Explore the oldest city in Morocco, wandering through its narrow alleys. Visit the Royal Palace gate, the historic Jewish quarter (Mellah), the renowned Al Qaraouine University, vibrant tanneries, the Attarine Museum, and the Moulay Idriss mausoleum. After lunch, visit artisan cooperatives and enjoy panoramic views over the medina.

Day 5: Fes – Midelt – Er-Rachidia – Erfoud

Travel towards the Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane to visit the cedar forest, home to Barbary apes. Continue through the Tiz Ntalghamt Mountain Pass and the scenic Ziz Gorge (perfect for photos and lunch), passing through Midelt and the Ziz Valley to the traditional village of Erfoud for overnight.

Day 6: Erfoud – Rissani – Merzouga

Drive to Rissani for lunch and local exploration. In the afternoon, arrive in Merzouga near the Erg Chebbi dunes. Take a walk among the dunes before reaching the desert camp for an unforgettable sunset and a night in traditional Berber tents.

Day 7: Merzouga Desert Exploration

After breakfast and a swim, explore nearby fossil caves by 4×4. Visit the village of Tissrdmin, then cross the volcanic Black Desert where you’ll share tea with a local Tuareg family. Explore the desert nomadic lifestyle and visit the village of Khamlia to experience Gnawa music. Enjoy a traditional Berber pizza in Rissani before a camel ride at sunset back to the desert camp for a traditional dinner and music around the campfire.

Day 8: Merzouga – Todra Gorge – Dades Gorge

Catch the sunrise over the dunes, then freshen up before heading through Rissani and Tinghir to the breathtaking Todra Gorge. After lunch, continue through the Dades Valley, famous for its “Monkey Toes” rock formations, and overnight in the valley.

Day 9: Dades Gorge – Ouarzazate

Travel along the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” stopping at Kalaat Mgouna, the Valley of Roses. Visit the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a famous film location. Then cross the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass to Marrakech for overnight.

Day 10: Ouarzazate – Taroudant

Journey to Taroudant, a traditional Berber town known for crafts and bustling markets. Often called a smaller Marrakech, it offers an authentic cultural experience. Overnight in a local Riad.

Day 11: Taroudant – Tafraoute – Agadir

Travel through Tafraoute, a scenic town surrounded by striking granite formations, then proceed to the coastal city of Agadir for your overnight stay.

Day 12: Agadir – Essaouira

Head to the Atlantic coast and the charming city of Essaouira, known as the Pearl of the Atlantic. Explore the fortified medina, enjoy sunset views from the city walls, and savor fresh seafood at the harbor.

Day 13: Free Day in Essaouira

Spend a relaxing day discovering Essaouira’s historic medina, bustling markets, and oceanfront charm at your leisure. Optional visits to local music festivals or dining on fresh seafood by the port are recommended.

Day 14: Essaouira – Marrakech

Return to Marrakech for an overnight stay in a traditional Riad.

Day 15: Marrakech City Tour

Explore Marrakech’s highlights including Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the Koutoubia Mosque, colorful souks, historic palaces, museums, the Menara Gardens, and the famous Majorelle Garden with your guide.

Day 16: Marrakech – Casablanca Departure

After breakfast, relax before transferring to Casablanca Airport for your departure. Your unforgettable Moroccan adventure concludes upon arrival.