9-Day Grand North to South Morocco Circuit from Casablanca

Overview

Embark on an extraordinary 9-day journey that takes you from Morocco's northern Mediterranean coast to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. This grand circuit combines the best of Morocco's diverse landscapes, from the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen to the ancient medinas of imperial cities, culminating in the breathtaking beauty of the Sahara. Experience the perfect blend of culture, history, and natural wonders in one unforgettable adventure.

Why Choose This Tour

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Experience the complete diversity of Morocco in just 9 days
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Visit multiple UNESCO sites including Fes medina, Volubilis, and the historic city of Tetouan
• Authentic Desert Adventure: Overnight in a luxury Berber desert camp with camel trekking
• Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide deep insights at each destination
• Small Group Experience: Maximum group size of 12 ensures personalized attention
• Comfort & Convenience: Premium transportation and carefully selected accommodations
• Cultural Immersion: Authentic experiences with local communities and artisans
• All-Inclusive: Most meals, activities, and entrance fees included for a hassle-free experience

Highlights

• Hassan II Mosque - Casablanca's iconic architectural symbol
• Tangier Gateway - Historic city at the crossroads of continents
• Chefchaouen Blue City - Famous blue-washed mountain town in Rif Mountains
• Tetouan Spanish Medina - UNESCO European-Moroccan architectural blend
• Volubilis Roman Ruins - UNESCO archaeological site with preserved mosaics
• Imperial Cities - Rabat (capital), Meknes (grandiose), and Fes (ancient)
• Fes Medina - UNESCO ancient scholarly center and leather crafts
• Todra Gorges - Dramatic 300-meter high canyon landscapes
• Erg Chebbi Dunes - Golden sand Sahara desert experience
• Berber Desert Camps - Authentic nomadic hospitality under stars

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Casablanca to Tangier

• Morning (9:00 AM): Hassan II Mosque exploration with guided tour
• Late Morning: Depart for Tangier along scenic coastal highway
• Afternoon (2:30 PM): Arrive in Tangier, check into accommodation
• Late Afternoon: Explore Tangier medina and Kasbah Museum
• Evening: Visit Cape Spartel viewpoint and Hercules Caves
• Dinner: Seaside restaurant with Mediterranean views
• Distance: 320 km | Drive time: 3.5 hours | Overnight: Tangier

Day 2: Tangier to Chefchaouen via Tetouan

• Morning (9:00 AM): Continue Tangier exploration - Grand Socco market
• Mid-Morning: Depart for Tetouan
• Late Morning: Brief stop in Tetouan's UNESCO Spanish medina
• Lunch: Local restaurant in Tetouan
• Afternoon (2:00 PM): Continue to Chefchaouen through Rif Mountains
• Late Afternoon (4:00 PM): Arrive Chefchaouen, check into riad
• Evening: Blue city walk and photography session
• Distance: 115 km | Drive time: 2.5 hours | Overnight: Chefchaouen

Day 3: Chefchaouen Full Day Exploration

• Morning: Guided walking tour of blue medina with local guide
• Mid-Morning: Visit Plaza Uta el-Hammam and Kasbah Museum
• Late Morning: Explore artisan souks and traditional workshops
• Lunch: Traditional Berber meal at local restaurant
• Afternoon: Hike to Spanish Mosque viewpoint for panoramic views
• Late Afternoon: Free time for photography and souvenir shopping
• Evening: Sunset viewing from Ras el-Maa waterfall area
• Overnight: Chefchaouen

Day 4: Chefchaouen to Meknes via Volubilis

• Morning (9:00 AM): Final blue city exploration and photography
• Mid-Morning: Depart through scenic Rif Mountains
• Late Morning: Stop in Berber villages for coffee and views
• Lunch: Restaurant near Volubilis archaeological site
• Afternoon: Comprehensive tour of UNESCO Roman ruins complex
• Late Afternoon: Continue to Meknes
• Evening: Meknes arrival and medina exploration
• Distance: 280 km | Drive time: 5 hours with stops | Overnight: Meknes

Day 5: Meknes to Rabat

• Morning (9:00 AM): Explore Meknes imperial sites and palaces
• Mid-Morning: Visit Bab Mansour gate and Heri es-Souani granaries
• Late Morning: Depart for Rabat
• Afternoon (1:00 PM): Arrive Rabat, explore Kasbah of the Udayas
• Late Afternoon: Visit Royal Palace exterior and Hassan Tower
• Evening: Walk along Bou Regreg River and medina exploration
• Distance: 140 km | Drive time: 2 hours | Overnight: Rabat

Day 6: Rabat to Fes

• Morning (9:00 AM): Final Rabat exploration - Mohammed V Mausoleum
• Mid-Morning: Explore old medina and Andalusian Gardens
• Late Morning: Depart for Fes
• Afternoon (2:00 PM): Arrive and settle in traditional Fes riad
• Late Afternoon: Rest and orientation walk
• Evening: Guided introduction to Fes medina with dinner
• Distance: 200 km | Drive time: 3 hours | Overnight: Fes

Day 7: Fes Full Day Exploration

• Morning (9:00 AM): Comprehensive guided tour of ancient medina
• Mid-Morning: Visit famous Chouara leather tanneries
• Late Morning: Explore Al-Quaraouiyine University and Bou Inania Madrasa
• Lunch: Traditional Moroccan meal in medina restaurant
• Afternoon: Visit artisan districts - pottery, metalwork, textiles
• Late Afternoon: Explore Mellah (Jewish Quarter) and Royal Palace
• Evening: Optional traditional hammam or free time
• Overnight: Fes

Day 8: Fes to Merzouga Desert

• Morning (8:00 AM): Depart Fes through Middle Atlas Mountains
• Mid-Morning: Stop in Ifrane, "Switzerland of Morocco"
• Late Morning: Continue through cedar forests of Azrou
• Lunch: Mountain restaurant in Midelt with Atlas views
• Afternoon: Drive through Ziz Valley palm groves
• Late Afternoon (5:00 PM): Arrive Merzouga, meet camel caravan
• Sunset: Camel trek into Erg Chebbi dunes (1.5 hours)
• Evening: Berber camp with traditional dinner and music
• Distance: 460 km | Drive time: 7 hours with stops | Overnight: Desert camp

Day 9: Return to Casablanca via Todra Gorges

• Morning (8:00 AM): Sunrise and final desert exploration
• Mid-Morning: Drive to Todra Gorges
• Lunch: Restaurant at Todra Gorges
• Afternoon: Brief hike through dramatic canyon (300m walls)
• Late Afternoon: Begin return journey to Casablanca
• Evening (8:00 PM): Arrive in Casablanca
• Distance: 580 km | Drive time: 8 hours with stops

What's Included

• Accommodation: 8 nights (7 nights in 4-star hotels/riads, 1 night in luxury desert camp)
• Meals: 8 breakfasts, and 6 dinners (including special dinner at desert camp)
• Transportation: Premium, air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers
• Desert Experience: Camel trek in Erg Chebbi (one camel per person)
• Guided Tours: Expert English-speaking local guides in all major cities
• Entrance Fees: All admission fees to mentioned attractions and historical sites
• Cultural Experiences: Special access to local communities and traditional workshops
• Bottled Water: Provided throughout the journey
• All Taxes: All local taxes and service charges included

What's Not Included

• International Flights: Airfare to and from Morocco
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory
• Some Meals: Lunches and some dinners as specified in the itinerary
• Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, additional snacks, and personal purchases
• Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and camp staff
• Optional Activities: Any activities or experiences not mentioned in the itinerary
• Beverages: Alcoholic drinks and additional beverages beyond water with meals
• Visa Fees: If applicable to your nationality

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to take this tour?

The ideal times are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are most comfortable throughout the diverse regions you'll visit. These seasons offer pleasant weather for both city exploration and desert travel, with blooming landscapes in spring and golden hues in fall.

How physically demanding is this tour?

This is a moderate tour involving walking on uneven terrain in ancient medinas, archaeological sites, and optional hiking in the gorges. The camel ride is about 1-1.5 hours each way to the desert camp. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, but please inform us of any mobility concerns.

What should I pack for this diverse itinerary?

• Comfortable walking shoes with good grip for medinas and desert
• Light, breathable clothing for daytime
• Warm layers for cool desert and mountain nights
• Scarf or shawl for sun and sand protection
• Swimsuit (some hotels have pools)
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen)
• Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
• Personal medications and basic first aid
• Small backpack for day trips
• Electrical adapters (Type C and E)

What type of accommodation can I expect?

You'll stay in carefully selected 4-star hotels and traditional riads that combine modern comforts with authentic Moroccan architecture. The desert camp features comfortable tents with proper bedding and shared bathroom facilities.

Is there Wi-Fi and charging facilities?

Hotels and riads offer Wi-Fi, though speeds may vary. The desert camp has limited electricity, primarily in common areas. We recommend bringing a power bank for your devices.

What is the food like on the tour?

You'll enjoy a variety of traditional Moroccan cuisine, including tagines, couscous, and fresh seafood in coastal areas. Meals are prepared with fresh, local ingredients. We can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.

How much free time is there during the tour?

The itinerary balances guided activities with free time to explore at your leisure, shop, or relax. You'll have free time in Chefchaouen, Fes medina, and other key destinations to explore independently.

What is the cancellation policy?

Please refer to our booking terms and conditions for detailed cancellation policies. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellation.

Good to Know

• Physical Level: Moderate - involves walking on uneven terrain and sand dunes
• Group Size: Maximum 12 travelers for personalized experience
• Best Time to Visit: March-May & September-November for pleasant temperatures
• Accommodation: Mix of 4-star hotels, traditional riads, and luxury desert camp
• Packing Tips: Layers for varying temperatures, comfortable walking shoes, scarf for sand
• Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
• Language: Arabic (official), French widely spoken, English in tourist areas
• Time Zone: GMT/UTC +1

Booking Information

Contact our travel specialists for availability, pricing, and personalized itinerary adjustments.