7-Day Marrakech, High Atlas & Casablanca Tour

Overview

Embark on an epic 7-day journey through the heart of Morocco with our High Atlas to Casablanca tour. This comprehensive loop covers the best of Morocco from the snow-capped Atlas Mountains to the golden Sahara Desert, from the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen to the cosmopolitan Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. Experience UNESCO World Heritage sites, dramatic gorges, imperial cities, and authentic Berber culture all in one unforgettable adventure.

Highlights

• Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah - UNESCO World Heritage earthen fortress used in Hollywood films
• High Atlas Mountains - Stunning mountain landscapes and Berber villages
• Sahara Desert Camp - Authentic overnight experience with camel trekking and stargazing
• Fes Medina - World's oldest continuously inhabited medina with ancient souks
• Chefchaouen Blue City - Picturesque mountain town with distinctive blue-washed buildings
• Imperial Cities - Meknes, Rabat, and Casablanca - seats of Moroccan dynasties
• Hassan II Mosque - Iconic contemporary mosque with ocean views in Casablanca
• Volubilis Roman Ruins - Ancient archaeological site between Fes and Meknes
• Comprehensive Coverage - Mountains, desert, gorges, history, and culture all included

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou

• Morning: Depart Marrakech and head toward the Atlas Mountains
• Cross Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260m) with panoramic views
• Stop for lunch in a Berber village
• Afternoon: Arrive at Ait Ben Haddou
• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage kasbah - an ancient mud-brick fortress
• Visit the lively village and climb to the top for sunset views
• Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Ait Ben Haddou
• Distance: 200 km | Drive time: 5-6 hours

Day 2: Ait Ben Haddou to Merzouga Desert

• Morning: Depart early toward the Sahara
• Drive through scenic valleys and small Berber villages
• Stop in Ouarzazate for lunch and market exploration
• Afternoon: Continue toward Merzouga
• Stop at local attractions along the way
• Arrival in Merzouga
• Late afternoon: Sunset camel trek into Erg Chebbi dunes
• Overnight under the stars in a traditional Berber desert camp
• Distance: 300 km | Drive time: 7-8 hours

Day 3: Merzouga to Fes

• Early morning: Sunrise camel trek and desert exploration
• Breakfast at the camp
• Begin journey northward toward Fes
• Stop in Ifrane ("Morocco's Switzerland") for a break
• Afternoon: Arrive in Fes
• Evening: Orientation walk and dinner
• Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Fes
• Distance: 470 km | Drive time: 9-10 hours

Day 4: Fes Medina & Volubilis

• Morning: Guided exploration of the historic Fes medina
• Visit the famous leather tanneries with traditional dying methods
• Explore ancient souks and the University of Al Quaraouiyine
• Afternoon: Day trip to Volubilis Roman ruins
• Walk among preserved mosaics and ancient columns
• Visit Moulay Idris - a holy pilgrimage town nearby
• Evening: Return to Fes for dinner
• Overnight in Fes
• Distance: 60 km to Volubilis and back

Day 5: Fes to Chefchaouen

• Morning: Depart Fes for the picturesque blue city
• Drive through the Rif Mountains with scenic views
• Stop in small towns along the way
• Afternoon: Arrive in Chefchaouen
• Explore the distinctive blue-washed medina
• Wander through narrow streets and photograph the unique architecture
• Visit local markets and enjoy the artistic community
• Evening: Sunset from a viewpoint overlooking the town
• Overnight in a traditional riad in Chefchaouen
• Distance: 210 km | Drive time: 5-6 hours

Day 6: Chefchaouen to Meknes to Rabat

• Morning: Further exploration of Chefchaouen's medina
• Visit the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views
• Late morning: Depart for Meknes
• Afternoon: Arrive in Meknes - the "City of Ismaili"
• Visit the grand gates, royal palace grounds, and historic medina
• Late afternoon: Continue to Rabat (capital of Morocco)
• Explore Rabat's attractions including the Kasbah of the Udayas
• Evening: Dinner at a traditional restaurant
• Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Rabat
• Distance: 380 km | Drive time: 7-8 hours

Day 7: Rabat to Casablanca

• Morning: Final exploration of Rabat if desired
• Visit the Hassan II Mosque area or museums
• Midday: Drive to nearby Casablanca (90 km, 2 hours)
• Afternoon: Arrive in Casablanca
• Visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque - one of the world's largest mosques
• Explore the medina and modern city areas
• Walk along the Corniche (seafront promenade)
• Visit the Royal Palace area and local markets
• Evening: Dinner with ocean views
• Overnight in Casablanca or depart based on flight schedule
• Distance: 90 km | Drive time: 2 hours

What's Included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Marrakech
• All transportation in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles
• Professional English/French-speaking driver/guide
• 1 night in Ait Ben Haddou
• 1 night in a Berber desert camp in Merzouga
• 2 nights in Fes
• 1 night in Chefchaouen
• 1 night in Rabat
• Meals as specified in the itinerary (6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners)
• Guided tours in each city with local experts
• Sunset and sunrise camel treks in the desert
• All camping equipment (tents, mattresses, blankets)
• Bottled water during the tour
• All applicable taxes and service charges

What's Not Included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses and tips
• Drinks and additional meals not mentioned
• Optional activities and experiences
• Any items not specifically mentioned as included

Why Choose This Tour?

• Comprehensive Itinerary - Experience the best of Morocco in one week
• UNESCO World Heritage - Visit Ait Ben Haddou, Fes Medina, and Volubilis
• Diverse Landscapes - From the High Atlas to the Sahara Desert
• Cultural Immersion - Explore imperial cities and blue-washed villages
• Expert Guidance - Knowledgeable local guides in each location
• Comfortable Travel - Quality accommodations and transportation
• Flexible Experience - Options to customize activities based on your interests

FAQ

Q: What meals are included? A: The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners featuring traditional Moroccan cuisine. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions when booking.

Q: What type of accommodation is provided? A: You'll stay in a mix of comfortable hotels, traditional riads, and a Berber desert camp. All accommodations are carefully selected for comfort and authenticity.

Q: What should I pack for the tour? A: Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, warm layers for cool desert nights, camera, and personal toiletries. A small backpack is recommended for daily excursions.

Q: Is this tour suitable for children? A: Yes, children aged 6 and above can participate. The itinerary can be adjusted for families with children. Please inform us in advance if you're traveling with children.

Q: How physically demanding is this tour? A: This tour requires moderate fitness. Activities include walking in medinas (2-4 hours daily) and light camel riding. Most participants of all fitness levels find it manageable with breaks as needed.

Q: What's the best time to visit? A: The best time is from October to April when temperatures are pleasant. Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot, especially in the desert.

Q: Are the city tours guided? A: Yes, professional local guides lead all city tours, providing valuable insights and ensuring you don't get lost in the maze-like medinas.

Q: What if I have mobility limitations? A: Please inform us of any mobility concerns in advance. While some areas in the medinas may be challenging, we can arrange alternative experiences and focus on accessible highlights.

Q: Can I customize the itinerary? A: Yes, we can adjust the itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Contact us to discuss customization options before your tour.

Q: Is there free time for independent exploration? A: Yes, there is free time in each location for you to explore at your own pace or relax at your accommodation.