15 Days Grand Tour To Imperial Cities Of Morocco Trip From Casablanca
Welcome to our 15-day Grand Tour of Morocco’s Imperial Cities, starting from Casablanca. Upon your arrival, we will greet you at the airport and take you on a journey through Casablanca and Rabat. Our first stop will be the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, the largest mosque in Morocco. We’ll also take a stroll along the beautiful coastal Corniche.
Next, we’ll head to Rabat, the capital of Morocco, where we will spend the night in a traditional Riad located in the heart of the medina. During our time in Rabat, we’ll explore the city’s historical landmarks, including the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Hassan Tower, and the Royal Palace. We’ll also have the opportunity to taste some of the delicious local cuisine.
Throughout our tour, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Morocco’s imperial cities, including Fez, Meknes, and Marrakech. From stunning architecture to bustling markets and traditional music, you’ll experience the best of Morocco.
At the end of the tour, we’ll return you to Casablanca, where you can catch your flight home or continue your travels in Morocco.
HIGHLIGHTS :
• Departure from Casablanca to Imperial Cities.
• Drive the Tizi n Tichka Pass of the High Atlas Mountains
• Visit the UNESCO worlde heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou
• Pass Ouarzazate and visit Film Studios and Taourirt Kasbah
• Camel ride for sunset and sunrise, overnight in Tents
Program Details:
DAY 1 : CASABLANCA
Upon your arrival, your driver-guide will be waiting for you to provide transportation to your hotel, which is located in the modern city and approximately 40 minutes away. If your arrival time allows, you may have the opportunity to visit some attractions on the way. One of the most iconic landmarks of Casablanca is the Hassan II Mosque, which you will have the chance to explore on the following day.
DAY 2 : CASABLANCA - RABAT – MEKNES
After breakfast, you will explore the highlights of the Moroccan metropolis, including the iconic Hassan II Mosque, the picturesque Habbous neighborhood, and the vibrant Mohammed V Square. Then, you will hit the road and drive approximately 90 km to the north, where you will have the opportunity to visit some notable sites in the capital city of Rabat after lunch, such as the royal palace (from outside) and the government district, the famous Hassan Tower, the emblem of the city, the mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the tomb of the Merinid sultans.
Afterwards, you will depart to the city of Meknes (approximately 160 km via highway), an important agricultural region of Morocco known for its magnificent 40 km-long wall with impressive gates. You will spend the night in an authentic Riad.
DAY 3 : MEKENS - VOULUBILIS – FES
Get ready for a unique time-traveling experience today! Your journey will begin in the Jewish Quarter, where you will explore the remnants of a massive 17th-century granary and the mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Then, you will take a stroll in the ancient city and discover the bustling Place El Hedim and the famous Bab Mansour, one of the most impressive gates in Morocco. The first stop on your itinerary will be the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, where you will admire the two main streets, Cardo and Decumanus, which intersect at the heart of the city’s old forum.
Next, you will travel forward in time to the venerated citadel of Moulay Idriss, the cradle of Sufism in Moroccan society and the first Islamic capital of the Arab Prime Minister dynasty. The city was founded for the indigenous population who migrated with Moulay Idriss from the Middle East. Finally, you will reach your destination and get a glimpse of the most magnificent imperial cities in the evening. You can explore the sites outside the old walled city, which boasts impressive walls, gates, and forts (borjs) in the Moorish style. After this exciting introduction to Fez, you can have dinner at the Riad.
DAY 4 : FEZ (VISIT)
Fez is a captivating city that engages all the senses with its beautiful sights, enchanting sounds, and enticing aromas. As the oldest imperial capital and the most complete medieval city in the Islamic world, Fez embodies a timeless quality that remains unchanged despite the ever-changing world outside its walls. Fez has a rich history and a unique culture that showcases the sophistication of Moroccan craftsmanship.
During your visit, you will start your day with a guided tour of the Medina. Our expert guide will take you on a historical journey, starting from the King’s Palace and its Meshwar, with its ramparts and magnificent gates. You will also explore the Jewish Quarter, a 15th-century citadel with its intricate Moorish labyrinth architecture and medieval splendor. The highlight of this part of the city will be the visits to the synagogues and mausoleums of the holy Sephardi rabbis.
After your tour, you will have the rest of the day to enjoy the many restaurants and establishments that Fez has to offer. You will be able to experience the local cuisine and indulge in the unique atmosphere of this beautiful city.
DAY 5 : FES – MIDELT
Today, you’ll depart from Fes to reach Irfan, also known as the “Switzerland” of Morocco. Along the way, you’ll pass through the stunning Berber forests and encounter playful monkeys in the Middle Atlas region before reaching Azrou. From there, you’ll continue on to Midelt, which is the geographical center of Morocco. In the afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to relax and soak up the atmosphere at a beautiful traditional Kasbah. If you’re feeling adventurous, there is also an optional small hike in the mountains.
DAY 6 : MIDELT - ERFOUD - RISSANI – MERZOUGA
After breakfast, you’ll depart for Merzouga, traveling through the scenic “Gorges du Ziz” canyon, which is filled with oases and date palms. You’ll then arrive at the stunning sand dunes and beautiful oases that make up some of the most impressive landscapes in the country. Along the way, you’ll also make a short stop in the ancient capital of Tafilalt: Sijilmassa (Rissani).
From there, you’ll continue on to Merzouga, a desert oasis situated on the edges of the largest dune area in Morocco, known as the Erg Chebbi. This area is integrated with lush palm groves and surrounded by stunning reddish sand dunes, which are only surpassed in size by the dunes of Chegaga in southeastern Morocco.
Once in Merzouga, you’ll have the opportunity to ride camels deep into the Sahara desert. Here, you can enjoy the peace and vastness of the stunning dunes, as well as take in a romantic sunset from one of the towering dune peaks. You’ll then have dinner and spend the night in a typical nomad tent, immersing yourself in the authentic desert environment.
DAY 7 : MERZOUGA - ERFOUD – TINEGHIR
Today, an early wake-up call is recommended for those who wish to witness the stunning sunrise. After breakfast in the open air under the morning sun, you can take a leisurely stroll through the sand dunes before returning to the Kasbah Hotel to prepare for the day’s journey.
The day will begin with a drive through the scenic oasis of Erfoud, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit a local marble factory. You’ll then continue on to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the large villages and Berber oases of Tineghir, which marks the beginning of the Todra Valley.
In the evening, you’ll spend the night at a host, immersing yourself in the local culture and traditions.
DAY 8 : TINGHIR - BOUMALN DADES - SKOURA - OUARZAZTE - AIT BEN HADDOU
You’ll head west to explore the beautiful Todra Valley and Todra Gorge, which is located between the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert. The Todra Gorge is the narrowest and highest gorge in the region and is situated just 15 kilometers from Tinghir.
After exploring the Todra Gorge, you’ll continue your journey through the stunning Dades Valley. This area is famous for its thousands of blooming Persian roses, which fill the air with their heavenly scent at Kalaa Mgouna. You’ll then head to Skoura, where you’ll find the “1000 Kasbah Road”, a scenic route dotted with majestic sandcastles that boast visually appealing and timeless beauty.
As you arrive in Ouarzazate, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Kasbah of Taourirt and the movie studios, which have earned the nickname of “Moroccan Hollywood”. The highlight of the day will be a visit to the famous Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, where you’ll spend the night and enjoy dinner in a beautiful Kasbah.
DAY 9 : AIT BEN HADDOU – MARRAKECH
On your final day, you’ll embark on a journey to Morocco’s highest pass, the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, which sits at 2260 feet above sea level. From there, you’ll arrive in Marrakech, a vibrant city that offers endless pleasures for visitors and locals alike. The southern tribes and Berber villagers bring their products to the markets, and the city boasts a variety of entertainment options.
Marrakech is a feast for the imagination, with its incomparable beauty and stunning backdrop of imposing mountains. After exploring the lively Jemaa El Fna square, you’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night in a beautiful riad, which is a traditional Moroccan house with a central courtyard or garden.
DAY 10 : MARRAKECH (VISIT)
Your morning will be devoted to exploring the beautiful city of Marrakech. You’ll visit numerous historical sites, starting with the Menara, a magnificent pool surrounded by olive trees and flowers, which reflects the image of an exquisite Moorish building. This pool was built in 1866 for dignitaries who enjoyed beautiful sunsets with the Atlas Mountains as the ethereal backdrop. The pool also functions as an innovative irrigation system that sustains life in the dry desert.
Your visit will cover many impressive sites, including the Koutoubia minaret, which is identical to the Giralda tower found in Seville, Spain. You’ll also visit the Saadian Tombs, which demonstrate Moorish architecture at its best. The tombs consist of sixteenth-century mausoleums that remained walled and unknown until 1917. Afterward, you can explore the gardens of Agdal and the Marjorelle before returning to your beautiful riad for the evening.
DAY 11 : MARRAKECH - OURIKA VALLEY
Your day will begin with an exciting excursion to the Ourika Valley. Here, you will have the opportunity to visit traditional Berber Souks and Jewish shrines, which are significant cultural landmarks of the region. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to the Berber Museum of Arts and Crafts. Here, you will learn about the local Berber communities and their exceptional craftsmanship. You’ll discover their workshops and sophisticated handmade products. At night, you’ll retire to your Riad, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences.
DAY 12 : MARRAKECH – ESSAOUIRA
You will start your day by going to Essaouira (Mogador), a picturesque city with a rich history, and fascinating antiquity, Essaouira was occupied by the Phoenicians and Carthaginians, provided essential violet dyes to the Romans, absorbed the sophisticated Jewish arts goldsmith, and centuries past as a Portuguese enclave. Despite the obvious influence of these civilizations, Essaouira has managed to remain a small town, authentic Berber. Living with the breath of fresh air provided by the Atlantic, Essaouira is a jewel nestled in the ragged coastline, with a vast expanse of empty sand trailing back along the promontory to the south. You will conclude your day with a dinner in your riad.
DAY 13 : ENJOYING ESSAOUIRA (TOURS)
You will spend a day exploring the charming port city of Essaouira. This beautiful coastal town is famous for its fishing industry and its historic marine gate, which was constructed in 1806. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the fascinating Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah Museum, where you can admire an impressive collection of musical instruments and Andalusian objects of Gnawa, an ethnic group originating from West Africa. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this enchanting city before returning to your accommodation.
DAY 14 : ESSAOUIRA – CASABLANCA
Your journey will take you to Casablanca along the scenic coastal route, with a stop in El Oualidia for a delectable seafood lunch. On the way, you will also visit El Jadida, where you can explore the fortress, a testament to the Portuguese occupation dating back to the 11th century. Finally, you will arrive in Casablanca, having traversed a route steeped in history and cultural significance. You will conclude your day with a farewell dinner and spend the night at the hotel.
DAY 15 : CASABLANCA – AIRPORT
On the last day of your trip, your driver will meet you at your hotel in Casablanca to assist you with your luggage and take you to the airport Mohamed V for your departure. Your driver will help you with the check-in process and bid you farewell, concluding your unforgettable journey through Morocco.
INCLUDED :
- Pick up at your riad / hotel in Casablanca.
- Transportation in a comfortable vehicle.
- 13 Night at the hotel of 03 star base.
- Driver / English speaking guide.
- Half board.
- 14 dinner / 14 breakfast.
- Dinners and breakfasts.
- Camel Trek.
- Night in desert camp with dinner and breakfast.
- Full day city tour fes & Marrakech with local guide
NOT INCLUDED :
• Lunch.
• Drinks.
• Tips.
• Entrance fees for museums.
• Personal expenses.