Experience an unforgettable 6-day Morocco desert tour from Casablanca to Merzouga, combining Morocco’s imperial cities, spectacular mountain landscapes, ancient kasbahs, and the golden dunes of the Sahara. Travel from Casablanca through historic Fes, the Middle Atlas Mountains, the Ziz Valley, and into the vast Erg Chebbi dunes of Merzouga.

This private journey is designed for travelers who want to experience Morocco beyond the main cities, with time for cultural discoveries, scenic drives, a camel ride, and a memorable night in a Sahara desert camp before continuing through the Todra Gorge and Dades Valley to Marrakech.

Highlights

• Explore Casablanca, Fes, Merzouga, Ouarzazate, and Marrakech
• Discover the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis
• Explore the historic imperial city of Fes
• Cross the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains
• Drive through the spectacular Ziz Valley
• Experience the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga
• Enjoy a sunset camel ride in the Sahara
• Spend a night in a comfortable Sahara desert camp
• Watch the sunrise over the Merzouga dunes
• Visit Todra Gorge and the Dades Valley
• Explore UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou
• Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass

6-Day Desert Tour from Casablanca to Merzouga Itinerary

Day 1: Casablanca – Rabat – Chefchaouen

Your 6-day Morocco desert tour from Casablanca to Merzouga begins with pickup in Casablanca. Depending on your arrival time, travel towards Rabat, Morocco’s capital, where you can visit highlights such as the Hassan Tower and the Kasbah of the Udayas.

Continue north towards Chefchaouen, the famous Blue City nestled in the Rif Mountains. Enjoy time to explore its blue-painted streets, traditional squares, and small local shops.

Overnight in a riad or hotel in Chefchaouen.

Day 2: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

After breakfast, leave Chefchaouen and travel towards Volubilis, one of Morocco’s most important archaeological sites. Explore the remarkably preserved Roman ruins, including ancient mosaics, columns, and temples.

Continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. Discover the historic medina, Bab Mansour, and other important landmarks before continuing to Fes.

Arrive in Fes in the afternoon and enjoy some free time.

Overnight in a traditional riad in Fes.

Day 3: Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga

Today begins with an early departure from Fes towards the Sahara.

Travel through Ifrane, often known for its alpine-style architecture, before continuing through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Depending on conditions, there may be an opportunity to stop near the forest and see the local Barbary macaques.

Continue through Midelt and across the dramatic landscapes leading towards the Ziz Valley, with panoramic views over its palm-filled oasis.

As you approach Merzouga, the landscape gradually changes from mountains and valleys to the vast Sahara.

Arrive in Merzouga and Erg Chebbi, where you will prepare for your desert experience.

In the late afternoon, ride camels into the dunes and watch the sunset over the Sahara. Continue to your desert camp for a traditional dinner, Berber music, and an evening beneath the stars.

Overnight at a Sahara desert camp in Erg Chebbi.

Day 4: Merzouga – Sahara Experience

Wake early to experience the spectacular Sahara sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast at the camp, return to Merzouga by camel or vehicle.

Enjoy a more relaxed day exploring the desert region. Visit nearby villages and learn about local Saharan culture and traditions. Depending on your interests, you can also visit a Gnawa community, explore the desert by 4×4, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere around the dunes.

This flexible day allows you to experience Merzouga without rushing through the Sahara.

Overnight in Merzouga.

Day 5: Merzouga – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley – Ouarzazate

After breakfast, leave Merzouga and travel west through the spectacular landscapes of southern Morocco.

Continue towards the Todra Gorge, one of the most impressive natural attractions in the region. Take a walk through the narrow canyon surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs.

Continue through the Dades Valley, passing traditional villages, kasbahs, and dramatic mountain scenery.

Then continue towards Ouarzazate, often called the gateway to the Sahara.

Overnight in Ouarzazate.

Day 6: Ouarzazate – Aït Ben Haddou – High Atlas – Marrakech

After breakfast, visit Aït Ben Haddou, the famous UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most spectacular fortified villages.

Explore its narrow streets and traditional earthen architecture before continuing towards the High Atlas Mountains.

Cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, enjoying panoramic views of the mountains and Berber villages along the route.

Continue to Marrakech, where your 6-day desert tour from Casablanca to Merzouga comes to an end.

Depending on your plans, we can drop you at your riad, hotel, or another location in Marrakech.

✔ Included

• Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional English- or Spanish-speaking driver
• 5 nights of accommodation in selected hotels and riads
• One night in a Sahara desert camp in Erg Chebbi
• Breakfasts and dinners
• Camel trekking in the Merzouga desert
• 4×4 excursion in the Merzouga desert
• Local guide in Fes
• Visit to Aït Ben Haddou
• All transfers according to the itinerary
• Free time for photography and local experiences
• Assistance throughout the journey

✘ Excluded

• Lunches and drinks
• Entrance fees to monuments and attractions
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Travel insurance
• Flight tickets