13 Days Imperial Cities Tour from Casablanca And Back Via Desert

Your 13-day Morocco adventure begins with a warm welcome in Casablanca, the country’s bustling economic capital. After your pickup from the airport, port, or accommodation, we’ll dive right into exploring this vibrant city. Marvel at the grandeur of the Hassan II Mosque, perched dramatically on the Atlantic coast and known as Morocco’s largest mosque. After a relaxed lunch break, enjoy a scenic stroll along the city’s lively Corniche before settling into your hotel for a restful overnight stay.

After breakfast, your journey continues along Morocco’s scenic Atlantic coast to the elegant capital, Rabat. Here, you'll explore key landmarks such as the majestic Hassan Tower, the royal Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the charming Kasbah of Oudaya. After some free time to enjoy lunch, we head further north to the tranquil seaside gem of Asilah, where you’ll settle in for a peaceful overnight stay.

After breakfast, we leave the coastal charm of Asilah behind and head to Tangier, the "Bride of the North," where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean at Cape Spartel. You'll explore the city's highlights, including the mythical Hercules Cave and panoramic views from the cape.

After enjoying lunch at your own pace, we journey inland through Tetouan and the scenic Rif Mountains, stopping for photo-worthy vistas along the way, before reaching the enchanting blue-hued town of Chefchaouen for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the serene charm of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains and renowned for its tranquil blue-and-white streets. Wander through the old Medina, where every alley reveals vibrant doors and photo-worthy corners steeped in Berber heritage. After enjoying a relaxed lunch, take a scenic hike to the Spanish Mosque, perched above the city, offering breathtaking panoramic views of this magical blue town. Return to your hotel for a peaceful overnight stay.

After breakfast, enjoy a final stroll through the peaceful blue alleyways of Chefchaouen before journeying to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis—an open-air museum of mosaics, arches, and timeless columns recognized by UNESCO. From there, we travel to Meknes, the Ismaili capital, where you’ll explore grand landmarks like Bab Al-Mansour, Sahrij Souani, the Royal Stables, and the mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. By evening, we arrive in the cultural heart of Fes for an overnight stay in a charming riad.

On day six of your Moroccan journey, dive deep into the spiritual and cultural heart of Fes one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. Begin with a glimpse of the majestic Royal Palace gate before stepping into the UNESCO-listed Medina, a maze of history behind the iconic Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud). Discover hidden gems like the Bouanania Madrasa, the intricate Nejjarine fountain, and the bustling tanneries.

Visit the ancient Al Quaraouiyin University—recognized as the world’s oldest—before exploring the historic Jewish quarter, "Mellah." Cap off the day with a breathtaking panoramic view from a hilltop fortress before returning to your cozy riad for the night.

After breakfast, your adventure continues south through Imouzzer to the alpine-style town of Ifrane, often dubbed the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its snowy winters and charming architecture. Then it’s off to the cedar forests of Azrou, where you can meet and feed playful Barbary macaques. After a lunch stop in Midelt, the journey winds through the dramatic Tizi-n-Tilght pass and the palm-fringed Ziz Valley, with scenic stops along the way.

By afternoon, you’ll arrive in the golden Sahara of Merzouga, where camels await to carry you across the dunes. Pause atop a high dune to watch the sunset before arriving at a luxury desert camp—a perfect fusion of tradition and comfort. As night falls, enjoy Berber music by the fire and sleep under a star-lit sky.

Waking up early in the heart of the desert is a magical experience you won’t want to miss, as the golden sunrise paints the dunes in soft light. After breakfast, you’ll ride camels back to Merzouga, where your driver awaits to begin a full day of desert exploration. From ancient kohl mines to peaceful oases and fossil-rich lands, the Merzouga region offers a wealth of hidden treasures.

You’ll visit nomadic families for tea in their traditional tents, then head to Khamlia village to enjoy hypnotic Gnaoua music and dance rooted in sub-Saharan heritage. After lunch, stroll through a lush palm grove and wrap up the day at the serene wild lake of Merzouga—home to seasonal flamingos. Dinner and overnight in a comfortable hotel.

After breakfast, your journey continues with a visit to Rissani, once the ancient capital of Tafilalet and now a bustling trading hub with a vibrant traditional souk. From there, you’ll head to Erfoud to explore a fascinating fossil workshop before driving through the lush palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad.

Next, arrive at the dramatic Todra Gorges, where towering red cliffs create a paradise for climbers and nature lovers alike—perfect for a scenic walk. After lunch, continue through Boumalne Dades to the stunning Dades Valley, making photo stops at the quirky "Monkey Fingers" rock formations and a panoramic viewpoint. End the day with dinner and a cozy overnight stay in a hotel nestled in the valley.

After breakfast, the journey takes you through the fragrant Rose Valley in Kalaa Magouna, famous for its annual May festival celebrating local rose-based products. You’ll continue through the lush palm groves of Skoura before arriving in Ouarzazate, where iconic film studios await your visit.

Next, explore the legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and cinematic backdrop for blockbusters like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Finally, cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi-N-Tichka Pass, pausing for photos and lunch along the way, before arriving in the vibrant city of Marrakech for a restful night in a traditional riad.

After a hearty breakfast, dive into the rich history of Marrakech on a guided tour through its iconic landmarks. Discover the elegance of Bahia Palace, the mystery of the Saadian Tombs, and the spiritual beauty of the Ben Youssef Quranic School. Wander through Morocco’s largest traditional souk, then enjoy lunch near the lively Jemaa El-Fna square. In the afternoon, admire the towering Koutoubia Mosque and stroll through the serene Majorelle Garden. Your day ends with a transfer to your accommodation, with free time to soak in the magic of Jemaa El-Fna at your own pace.

After breakfast, we drive west to Essaouira city. On the way we will make stops to see the Argan trees goats. And also for panoramic views. We reach the Essaouira city, formerly Mogador, one of the important coastal cities in Morocco. In which we visit the fishing port, the ancient ramparts with cannons, and also the old Medina. Finally, transfer to your hotel. Overnight stay in Essaouira.

In the last day of your 13 days around Morocco tour, we depart from Essaouira and drive along the coastline. Stops will be made for panoramic views. Finally, we reach Casablanca airport. End of the tour.