Morocco Destination
10 Day Imperial Cities Cultural Adventure
Experience Morocco's rich heritage on our 10-day Imperial Cities Cultural Adventure from Casablanca to Marrakech.
Journey through ancient medinas, vibrant souks, and architectural wonders while immersing yourself in authentic Moroccan culture, cuisine, and traditions across the kingdom's most storied imperial cities.
10-Day Imperial Cities Cultural Adventure: Casablanca to Marrakech
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca
Upon arrival in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and economic hub, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore some of the city's iconic landmarks such as the impressive Hassan II Mosque, perched along the Atlantic Ocean. The evening is free to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Casablanca - Rabat
After breakfast, the journey begins with a visit to the highlights of Casablanca before heading to the capital city of Rabat. In Rabat, you’ll explore the Royal Palace, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the ancient Hassan Tower. The city, a blend of historical and modern influences, offers a tranquil coastal ambiance. Overnight stay in Rabat.
Day 3: Rabat - Volubilis - Meknes - Fes
Leaving Rabat behind, you’ll head inland to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its remarkably preserved mosaics and columns.
From there, the journey continues to the imperial city of Meknes, where you’ll visit the impressive Bab Mansour gate, the granaries, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. By evening, you'll arrive in the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco Fes.
Day 4: Fes Guided Tour
Spend the day exploring Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city. With a local guide, wander through the labyrinthine streets of the medina (Fes el-Bali), visiting sites such as the Bou Inania Madrasa, the Al-Qarawiyyin University (one of the oldest in the world), and the famous tanneries. The sensory experience of Fes is unmatched, offering deep insight into Morocco’s vibrant history and traditions.
Day 5: Fes - Ifrane - Azrou - Midelt - Errachidia - Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, depart Fes and journey south through the Middle Atlas Mountains. The first stop is Ifrane, often referred to as the "Switzerland of Morocco" for its alpine architecture. Next is Azrou, known for its cedar forests and Barbary macaques. Continue through Midelt and the Ziz Valley to reach Errachidia and eventually arrive at Merzouga on the edge of the Sahara Desert.
In the evening, enjoy a camel ride into the dunes to witness the sunset and spend the night in a traditional desert camp under the stars.
Day 6: Merzouga - Rissani - Erfoud - Todgha Gorges - Dades Gorges
Rise early to catch the magical sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, travel through Rissani, once a vital caravan center, and Erfoud, known for its fossils and date palms. Continue toward the dramatic Todgha Gorges, where towering canyon walls offer an awe-inspiring view. End the day in the scenic Dades Gorges, where you’ll spend the night in a charming guesthouse set amidst rocky cliffs and winding valleys.
Day 7: Dades Gorges - Skoura - Ouarzazate
Today’s route takes you along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs. Travel through the rose-filled Valley of Skoura, home to beautiful oases and historic kasbahs. Arrive in Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara” and famous for its film studios. Visit the Taourirt Kasbah and enjoy a peaceful evening in this cinematic town.
Day 8: Ouarzazate - Kasbah Ait Benhaddou - Marrakech
After breakfast, visit the spectacular Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO-listed fortress that has served as a backdrop for numerous films. Continue the scenic drive over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon and check into your hotel, with time to explore the bustling atmosphere of the city’s central square, Jemaa el-Fnaa.
Day 9: Marrakech Guided Tour
Dive into the rich history and vibrant culture of Marrakech on a guided tour. Discover the Bahia Palace, the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs, and the colorful souks of the medina. Enjoy the lively energy of Jemaa el-Fnaa, where snake charmers, musicians, and storytellers perform amid the aroma of street food and spices. The evening is yours to relax or explore more at your own pace.
Day 10: Departure from Marrakech
Your Moroccan adventure concludes today. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some final moments in Marrakech before being transferred to the airport. Bid farewell to Morocco with memories of its imperial cities, majestic landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Services included
- Accommodation: 9 nights in carefully selected hotels, riads, and a desert camp
- Transportation: Private, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional English-speaking driver
- Meals: Daily breakfasts and some dinners (especially in remote areas like the desert camp, Dades valley, Ait benhaddou)
- Local Guides: Licensed local guides in Fes, Marrakesh.
- Desert Experience: Camel trekking in Merzouga with overnight stay in a Berber-style desert camp
- Entrance Fees: Admission to historical sites such as Volubilis, Kasbahs, and museums (when listed)
- Airport Transfers: Pickup in Tangier and drop-off at Casablanca airport
- Bottled Water: Often included during transfers and long drives
Services not included
- Lunches and Some Dinners: Especially in major cities where there are varied food options (Chefchaouen, Fes, Marrakesh, Casablanca,Rabat)
- Lunches
- Drinks: Soft drinks, alcohol
- Tips and Gratuities: For guides, drivers, hotel staff, and camel handlers
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, etc.