Morocco itinerary 12 days tour from Casablanca

On the 1st day of your Morocco itinerary 12 days tour from Casablanca, you will meet your Guide / driver at Mohammed V international airport and get to know the cultural, historic and the economic center of Morocco. Casablanca is a captivating city in which to begin your wonderful 12 days in Morocco tour. You will be guided to observe the most important sights of this city.

Today, Casablanca is a modern city with boulevards, modern infrastructure and rich history. You will receive insight into the city’s history and heritage from your guide/driver.

Depending on your arrival time, you will see the most important sights of this city. Visit the Mohammed V Square, the famous Rick’s Café and the elegant Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral in the residential area of Anfa.

You will also visit the famous Hassan II Mosque, the fifth-largest mosque in the world, marvel at its Minaret, the second tallest in the world, and take a leisurely stroll along the seaside promenade of La Corniche in Ain Diab.

You will then be transported to your Hotel for your first night.

(Overnight in Casablanca).

Travel to Rabat, Morocco’s capital city. This city is the political and administrative centre of Morocco, where the Royal Palaces, government institutions and International Embassies are located. Rabat’s architecture is testimony of its centuries of old rich history.

Admire the masterful architecture of Mohammed V Mausoleum, and the UNESCO listed site of Hassan Tower. You will also visit the official residence of the King of Morocco and the 12th century UNESCO listed site of Oudaya Kasbah.

After lunch and exploring the city of Rabat, your 12 day Morocco itinerary from Casablanca takes you into the stunning Rif Mountains and the Moroccan countryside to Chefchaouen, the famous Blue city of Morocco, where you can marvel at the uniqueness of this world-famous Blue Pearl.

Known as the blue pearl and ranked 8th of the most beautiful cities of the world. Chefchaouen is an artsy, blue washed mountain village which was founded in the 15th century and was populated by Jewish and Muslim refugees fleeing from the Spanish Inquisition in 1478 and is regarded as the prettiest town in Morocco.

Chefchaouen presents glorious photo opportunities and walking here will make you feel as though moving through a dreamland.

(Overnight in Chefchaouen).

On the 3rd day of your Morocco 12 days tour from Casablanca and after breakfast, embark on a private guided tour of the exotic and vibrant blue city, exploring in-depth, the rich cultural heritage and antiquity of this charming town and stroll the blue narrow alleys with your Grand Morocco expert local guide.

You will be enchanted to learn of the rich heritage and visit architectural treasures such as Ras el-Maa, the Kasbah Museum, the Spanish Mosque, Plaza Uta-Hammam and more.

Chefchaouen was isolated until early 20th century but has preserved a Moorish way of life and is regarded as the prettiest town in Morocco.

The town buildings are painted blue and white, so the entire village appears to be wonderfully drenched in many hues of glorious blue leaving the traveller with a surreal impression. A beautiful town you will admire while on your Morocco 12 day itinerary.

Leaving the beautiful Chefchaouen, you will head south via the stunning Rif Mountains towards the Roman ruins of Volubilis, where you will undertake a guided walking visit of the ruins.

Morocco has one of the richest histories and cultures globally, influenced by centuries of diverse rulers, which includes Roman rule. Explore the ancient Roman city of Volubilis. Dating back to 3rd century BC, Volubilis is home to some of the most impressive Roman ruins in North Africa.

During Roman occupation of Morocco, Volubilis was the powerful ancient capital and administrative centre of Roman Africa and prospered economically. Among the most famous of the ruins are the luxury villas with their water tanks, large courtyard, beautiful mosaic floors, various pavilions, Basilica, Triumphal Arch built in 217 A.D and more than 300 temples. It was UNESCO World Heritage listed in 1997.

Continue your journey to the ancient, vibrant and the UNESCO listed Imperial city of Fes.

This city is a North eastern Imperial Moroccan city referred to as The Mecca of the West or The Athens of Africa, also being the country’s capital of knowledge and culture.

Fes is the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities and an enchanting city you will admire while on your Morocco 12 day itinerary from Casablanca, it is renowned for its exciting and colourful Fes El Bali walled Medina, its Marinid architecture, vibrant souks, the famous Fes mosaic tile work and old world atmosphere and charm.

(Overnight in Fes).

After a delicious Moroccan breakfast in your charming Riad, you will begin a full day heritage city tour of Fes with your expert local guide. This experience is a highlight of your Morocco 12 day itinerary, offering a deep dive into the city’s rich history, culture, and traditions. As you explore, you will discover why Fes is often called the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco.

As you explore this UNESCO-listed imperial city, each stop along the way will enrich your 12 day Morocco itinerary with history, culture, and breathtaking sights.

• Bab Boujloud (The Blue Gate): Begin your journey at this 12th-century gateway, a masterpiece of Andalusian and Moroccan craftsmanship, adorned with blue tiles on one side and green tiles on the other, symbolizing the city’s religious and cultural significance.

• Mellah (Jewish Quarter): Stroll through the historic Mellah, Morocco’s oldest Jewish quarter, built near the Royal Palace in 1438 to offer protection to the Jewish community. The area is known for its unique balconies, wooden architecture, and centuries-old synagogues.

• Dar el Makhzen (Royal Palace of Fes): Marvel at the largest royal palace in Morocco, famous for its seven grand golden doors, intricately designed with marble, copper, and mesmerizing mosaics. Though the interior is closed to visitors, its stunning façade is a must-see.

• Borj Sud: Enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Fes from this ancient fortress, offering a spectacular vantage point over the labyrinth-like Medina. This viewpoint provides a stunning perspective of the UNESCO-listed city.

• Chouara Tannery: Step back in time at the 11th-century Chouara tannery, the oldest leather tannery in the world. Witness the traditional leather-dyeing process, where artisans use natural dyes and age-old techniques to produce Morocco’s finest leather goods. Exploring this tannery will be one of the standout experiences of your 12 days in Morocco tour from Casablanca.

• Fes Pottery Cooperative: Visit a traditional pottery factory, where artisans craft intricate ceramics and mosaics that adorn half of Morocco. Observe the delicate craftsmanship of Fassi pottery, a legacy passed down for generations.

• University of Al-Qarawiyyin: Discover the world’s oldest continuously operating university, founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri. Recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records, this historic educational institution has played a crucial role in shaping Morocco’s intellectual and spiritual landscape.

• Bou Inania Madrasa (14th Century Religious School): Admire this architectural masterpiece of the Marinid Dynasty, with its intricate cedarwood carvings, marble floors, and geometric tilework.

• Lunch in the Medina: Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at an authentic local restaurant, where you can savor classic Fassi dishes, known for their rich flavors and aromatic spices.

• Moulay Idriss Mausoleum: Visit the final resting place of Moulay Idriss II, founder of Fes and one of Morocco’s most revered historical figures. This sacred site holds great cultural and spiritual significance.

• Madrasa Al-Attarine: A magnificent 14th-century school adorned with ornate tilework, zellij patterns, and beautifully carved cedar wood.

• Nejjarine Museum: Explore this fascinating museum dedicated to Moroccan woodworking and traditional crafts, housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century caravanserai.

While navigating the narrow alleyways, your expert local guide will provide in-depth insights into Moroccan history, Berber traditions, and the cultural significance of Fes. This immersive experience allows you to step back in time and witness the living history of Morocco’s most treasured city. An enchanting day of discovery you will enjoy while on your Morocco itinerary 12 days tour from Casablanca.

(Overnight in Fes).

Today, you will begin your spectacular journey towards the magical and legendary Sahara Desert, the largest hot desert in the world and where the undulating golden dunes glisten like gold in the sunlight. Travel dreams do come true and this visit to the Sahara desert may be one of yours.

Travel to the city of Ifrane known as the Little Switzerland of Morocco and stop for a break to enjoy its marvellous landscapes.

Here in Ifrane, you will become aware that this magical mountain town is one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco and features in the top 10 cleanest cities of the world. A beautiful place you will admire while on your 12 day Morocco itinerary from Casablanca.

Navigate the green and superb Middle Atlas Mountains, marvel at the largest Cedar plantations in Africa and be captivated by the antics of the Barbary Apes. This species of Apes is found only in Morocco, Gibraltar and Algeria.

Stop in Zayda town for lunch and enjoy a Moroccan tajine or some fresh barbeque. Drive through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains and the striking Ziz Valley oasis, containing the largest palm grove oasis in Morocco and observe a dense canopy of palms between ancient striated cliffs dating back to the Jurassic period.

Continue travel to the eminent dunes of Erg Chebbi and experience the glory of the Sahara Desert. Erg Chebbi is regarded as the gateway to the Grand African Sahara and has some dunes considered the highest sand dunes in North Africa at 350 M elevation.

Meet your camel caravan and the experienced camel man, who will guide your trek to explore the mysterious Sahara sand sea, an alluring and a unique trek that will make your Morocco itinerary 12 days tour from Casablanca a memorable experience.

Enjoy a charming sunset over the Erg Chebbi dunes and spend the night in a Sahara Berber desert camp. The evening will include dinner, followed by entertainment around the campfire, listening to traditional Berber drum music, having the experience of a lifetime under the milky way stars. This will captivate your heart and soul, not for a night but forever.

(Overnight in a Sahara desert camp).

On the 6th day of your Morocco 12 day itinerary, you may climb the sand dunes for a fantastic view of the amazing sunrise in the Sahara Desert, followed by a typical traditional Berber breakfast.

Begin your day with an optional ATV Quad excursion through the Sahara Desert. Enjoy the exhilaration of speeding through the sands and up the dunes, where you will stop to enjoy a peaceful moment with just sky and sand dunes for as far as you can see. You will have a professional guide to ensure your safety.

Explore the Berber farms and fields of the desert town of Merzouga and marvel at the ingenious underground water and irrigation system, for family agriculture and for spectacular date palms.

Visit Dayet Srij Salt Lake or Flamingos Lake. During spring, the lake attracts many species of birds e.g. amazing colony of Greater Flamingos, desert Warbler, Egyptian Nightjar, Falcons, desert Sparrows and many more. Several species reside at the lake all year round. Other wildlife to be spotted at the lake are lizards, hedgehogs and desert foxes.

Visit a desert nomadic Berber family, share a cup of tea with them and be totally captivated by their life style, their traditional tents and the harsh desert environment in which they live.

Partake of a delectable lunch of Berber Pizza, which is a food specialty of the desert town of Merzouga.

Visit the Black Village of Khamlia, a little village with a big story. This village has a population of 390 of Black African families and Berber ethnic groups and it is located at the foothills of Merzouga dunes, doors to the great Sahara Desert.

For centuries, black Africans from the Gnawa tribe, originating from sub-Saharan countries such as the Sudan, Mali and Niger, were forcibly moved from their homelands across the Sahara to Morocco as part of the worldwide slave trade. Shackled in chains as they crossed the desert, they sang to soothe their pain and found a mindfulness in the rhythmic chanting and clanking of the chains.

Today Khamlia’s inhabitants are direct descendants of these slaves. You will visit one of the music associations, have a cup of tea and listen to the Gnawa inspirational African music which is legendary from their ancestors, preserved from their original homeland and still played in a traditional manner.

Head to your Riad/Hotel in front of the sand sea for a rest or a swim at your leisure.

(Overnight in Sahara).

After having experienced 2 memorable nights in the spectacular sand sea dunes of Sahara, we depart for the city of Erfoud, known for its marble, dates and as a global hub for fossil stones. It is famous for its incredible fossil beds, including fascinating marine fossils (coiled goniatites, orthoceras, trilobites, etc.) which date back as far as 521 million years. An intriguing visit to a fossil museum is possible, where you can witness some of these ancient specimens.

Leaving Erfoud and continuing your Morocco itinerary 12 days, we depart towards Tinghir, where we will deviate to a minor road following the river of Todgha Gorge. Contemplate the scenic panoramic views of the old Jewish and Berber mud villages, overlooking the valley. Some time at leisure to enjoy the immensity of the huge red cliffs, 400M elevation, where many international rock climbers come to enjoy their preferred sport.

The Todgha Gorge is recognised worldwide for being one of the most spectacular rocky canyons. No wonder this place has been used for filming many movies due to its magnificent natural setting, one of the most famous movies being the “Mummy”.

In this area, lives a large community of Berber nomads. Sometimes, you can sight Berber nomad women, who have Berber tattoos on their faces. They may be seen herding their goats to drink water at the river’s edge and collecting their own water, which is carried by their mules back to the caves where they live.

After lunch, we will continue our Morocco 12 day itinerary, journeying towards one of the most beautiful valleys in the Kingdom and enjoy colourful Berber mud villages overlooking the amazing Dades Valley. We will drive along the spectacular Dades Valley to discover the amazing rock formations known as “monkey toes” or “monkey fingers”. These extraordinary formations are metamorphic rocks that have been severely eroded over thousands of years by rain, water (which has caused a chemical breakdown of the rock), wind, and possibly sandstorms.

The Dades Valley prides itself for the extensive production of roses, wall nuts, groves of palm and almond trees. It was the site of ancient nomad crossings and the valley is dotted with oases and mud brick palaces known as Kasbahs, which gives the region its fairy tale nickname. Then it is time to arrive at your Riad / Hotel for a peaceful night in the Dades Valley.

(Overnight in Dades valley).

After breakfast and spending the night in the heart of the beautiful Dades valley, journey through the captivating Valley of Roses in Kelaat Mgouna, a town celebrated as the Rose Capital of Morocco. Known for its lush fields of Damaskina roses, the valley blooms with vibrant colors, creating a stunning landscape that is both fragrant and picturesque. Each May, the town comes alive with the annual rose harvest festival, where the crowning of Miss Rose of Morocco adds a festive flair to this already magical destination.

Continue through the Road of the thousand Kasbahs, the iconic Berber mud brick villages and earth castles to the Oasis of Skoura. This oasis is UNESCO protected and is famous for its numerous Majestic Kasbahs and here, you will visit the iconic 17th century Kasbah of Amridil, an ancient fortification providing visitors a glimpse into life in rural southern Morocco.

Amridil Kasbah was founded over 300 years ago and is largely unchanged today. It is one of the living museums of Morocco and is the ancestral home of the Nasiri family. The present generation of the family live on site, have a museum of ancient Moroccan artifacts as part of the Kasbah. In ancient times camel caravans of gold, spice, slaves, salt and other cargo off-loaded in Skoura, after many weeks trekking across the desert from several sub Saharan countries e.g. Mali, Senegal, Ghana and Sudan…

Drive to the city of Ouarzazate known as the Hollywood of Africa and the gateway to the Sahara Desert. It was a former caravan town on the silk and salt route in the eastern foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. There may be an opportunity for photo stops and to visit one of the many cinema studios for which the city is well known.

Visit the spectacular UNESCO listed Ksar Ait Benhaddou, one of the most eye-catching filming locations in Africa. Stop for a walking visit to explore the 14th century World Heritage site, listed in 1987. This Ksar or village is one of the most intriguing of the red earth castles lining the ancient road of the camel caravans and it is the oldest mud village in Morocco.

It was once a commercial hub for Trans Saharan caravan traders and has been the backdrop for many international movies, such as Gladiator, Game of Thrones, Prince of Persia, Indiana Jones, Kingdom of Heaven and many more. This iconic destination is a must-see for anyone planning a 12 day Morocco itinerary tour, offering a blend of cinematic allure and history.

Travel over the wilderness and natural beauty of the High Atlas Mountains, through the exceptionally scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass before reaching the magical city of Marrakech.

(Overnight in Marrakech).

On this day, you will embark on a full day city tour of exotic and vibrant Marrakech, exploring in-depth, the rich cultural heritage and antiquity of this enchanting city.

Your Grand Morocco expert local guide will lead you through the UNESCO World Heritage listed, ancient-walled Medina, which dates back to the ancient Berber inhabitants and which extends back to more than 1700 BC. This experience is a highlight of your 12 day Morocco itinerary and offers a deep dive into the city’s history and culture.

• Visit Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan and Andalusian architecture and a major monument of Morocco’s heritage. This 19th century palace was built by “Ba Ahmed”, the grand vizier of Marrakech and named after his favourite wife “Bahia”. Craftsmen worked on this palace for fourteen years.

• Visit Ben Youssef Madrasa, a 14th century school founded by the Moroccan Monarch “Abu el Hassan”, another beautiful example of Moroccan and Andalusian architecture. The Saadian dynasty enlarged and redecorated the building in 1570 and it became the largest Islamic college in North Africa.

• Visit the 12th century and largest mosque in Marrakech, Koutoubia Mosque and its 77 meter high minaret. It was completed during the reign of the Berber Almohad caliph Yaqub al-Mansour (1184-1199), and inspired the construction of other buildings such as the Giralda of Seville and the Hassan Tower of Rabat. Local laws restrict any new building projects from exceeding the height of the minaret, providing a focal point for all to enjoy.

• Visit Saadian tombs, a major attraction for the visitors of Marrakech and one of the few remaining vestiges of the Saadian dynasty who reigned over the golden age of Marrakech between 1524 and 1659.

• Visit the Majorelle Garden, a haven of tranquillity amidst the vibrant city and explore the world famous UNESCO site of Jemaa el Fna plaza in the heart of Marrakech, a destination of all magic and a symbol of the ochre tinged city where you will find a different and a unique atmosphere like snake charmers, storytellers, traditional musicians and Marrakech’s legendary souks to mention just a few. This vibrant plaza is an essential part of your 12 days in Morocco tour from Casablanca, offering a truly memorable experience.

(Overnight in Marrakech).

Today, you will travel to the gem of the Atlantic, the port city of Essaouira, known for its sun, serene beaches, and the enchanting UNESCO medina.

Drive through the largest Argan forest in Morocco on the way to Essaouira. This region is the only one in the world growing the Argan tree and producing the famous Argan oil known as Morocco’s Golden oil.

Visit a women’s cooperative for making the world famous Argan oil where you will see the process of extracting the oil from the Argan fruit. This will enrich your knowledge of the wonderful Argan tree, which grows only in Morocco, also stop to take pictures of Argan tree climbing goats.

Essaouira is an exceptional example of a late 18th century fortified town, built according to the principles of contemporary European military architecture in a North African context. Since its foundation, it has been a major international trading seaport, linking Morocco and its Saharan hinterland with Europe and the rest of the world.

Retrace the trails taken by Jimmy Hendrix, Bob Marley, Cat Stevens… and explore Essaouira’s most important monuments, such as the old fish market and seaport. Watch silver craftsmen and wood carvers at work in the old medina where the labyrinth of streets is lined with heavy wooden doors and whitewashed houses. Discover the 18th-century Portuguese ramparts of Essaouira from where you’ll be able to see astonishing views of the Atlantic Ocean. A beautiful city you will admire while on your Morocco 12 day itinerary from Casablanca.

Wander through souks, traditional workshops and art galleries of the ancient Medina.

Visit Orson Welles Square and have lunch in one of the local restaurants serving delicious fish and seafood.

Dip your toes into the sensational Atlantic Ocean or enjoy a beach walk with sweeping vistas and/or optional activities (Horse ride, Atv Quads or camel riding) along the beach.

(Overnight in Essaouira).

Essaouira is a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, majestic sunsets, and Argan trees. Enjoy fresh seafood, explore local markets, and relax in the town’s charming beach.

Despite its small size, Essaouira has a thriving tourism and fishing economy and is a popular destination for European tourists. The town’s relaxed atmosphere and pristine beaches set it apart from other Moroccan cities.

After lunch, you will take a scenic drive along the Atlantic coastline back to Casablanca.

(Overnight in Casablanca).

On the last day of your 12 day morocco itinerary, you might choose to visit a traditional Moroccan Hammam or Spa to unwind before preparing for your journey back home.

We will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Casablanca Mohammed V international airport, for your on-ward flight. Now ends your Morocco 12 days tour from Casablanca.