10 Days Tour To the Imperial Cities Via Marrakech From Casablanca

Your 10-day journey from Casablanca starts when you land at Casablanca Airport, where our driver-guide will meet you and take you to your hotel to soak up the city’s vibrant energy. If you arrive in the morning, you’ll kick things off with a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, an incredible example of Moroccan architecture perched on the Atlantic coast. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll along Ain Diab Beach for a refreshing seaside vibe. If you arrive later in the day, don’t worry—the mosque and beach visits will be planned for the next morning so you won’t miss out before heading to Rabat. Spend a comfortable night in Casablanca before continuing your Moroccan adventure.

On day two of a 10-day Morocco adventure, start with breakfast before heading out from Rabat to Chefchaouen, soaking in a variety of landscapes and sights along the way. Begin with a quick tour of Rabat, stopping at the royal palace for a glimpse into the Moroccan monarchy, then visit the beautiful Kasbah des Oudayas, perched above the Atlantic and steeped in history. Don’t miss the Hassan Tower, an unfinished 12th-century minaret. From there, drive through the lush farmlands of Knitra and El Ghareb, passing cedar, oak, and almond trees, and stop in Ouazzane to enjoy the charming countryside before arriving in Chefchaouen, the famed “Blue City.” Wander through the medina, where artisans offer souvenirs, woven mats, and sweet treats near Hammam Square, and make sure to try the local goat cheese made by nearby shepherds. Explore the Kasbah, home to an ethnographic display, then savor dinner with stunning views of this peaceful city. Wrap up the day with a restful night in Chefchaouen, surrounded by friendly faces and breathtaking scenery.

After breakfast, head down from the hills and travel south through the heart of the peninsula to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Volubilis. This ancient Roman city is an impressive sight, perched along the edge of a high plateau. Stroll among its arches, basilicas, and intricate mosaics along the Decumanus Maximus, many of which are still remarkably well-preserved. After soaking up the sunshine, continue on to Meknes to admire its towering ramparts, the King Moulay Ismael Mosque, the vast stables once built for 12,000 horses, and the iconic Bab Mansour gate. End the day in Fes for an overnight stay. Note: Depending on your tour date, a visit to Meknes may not be possible as attractions are currently closed for renovations.

Spend an unforgettable day in Fes with our expert guide as you explore the city’s top attractions. Wander through historic gems like Karaouine University, the world’s oldest, Medrassa Bouanania, and the lively souk, before taking in stunning views from Idriss 2 Corner. See Bab Boujloud, a UNESCO World Heritage site, along with the ancient city walls, Attarin School, Norte Tower, Annajarin, Dar Bathaa, the leather tanneries, and the ceramic factory. You’ll also visit the Royal Palace and the Jewish Quarter (El Mellah). Midway, take a break to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel or riad.

Today’s journey through Morocco begins in the historic city of Fes, leading us to Ifran, celebrated as the cleanest and most modern city in the country. Its name, meaning “caves” in Berber, complements its nickname, “Little Switzerland,” earned for its lush greenery and reputation as a ski resort in the Middle Atlas at an elevation of 1,665 meters. Ifran is also home to The Brotherhood private university, founded in 1997 by King Hassan II of Morocco and King Fahd of Saudi Arabia, where all courses are taught in English. We will enjoy lunch in the Berber village of Zaida before proceeding to Midelt, nestled at the foot of the eastern High Atlas Mountains. From there, we will ascend the rugged terrain inhabited by a thriving Berber community, admiring striking landscapes and palm-filled oases at Jbel Ayachi (3,747 meters). As we descend winding roads into the pre-Saharan zone, the route passes through Errachidia and Erfoud, renowned for pottery and fossil quarries remnants of a vast ocean dating back 350 million years. Our destination is the majestic red sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, where the towering dunes of Merzouga rise dramatically from the horizon. The day concludes with a camel ride, a sumptuous dinner, and an unforgettable night in a serene desert camp.

Palm Oasis: Our journey begins in Rissani, a quiet town that was once the ancient capital of Tafilalet and is home to the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, founder of Morocco’s Alaouite Dynasty in the 17th century. Historically a major caravan crossroads between north and south, Rissani remains a key commercial hub today. About 127 km away lie the Todgha Gorges, tucked beyond the central High Atlas Mountains. The scenery here rivals Colorado, with sweeping high plateaus, dramatic gorges, vast canyons, and peaks sculpted by erosion. Some summits soar beyond 4,000 meters, including Jbel Saghro at 2,500 meters and Jbel Mgoun at 4,068 meters, the tallest in this part of the High Atlas. Home to Berber communities, the area is perfect for hiking or strolling through its striking canyons. From Todgha Gorges, we move on to Dades Valley, where fields of alfalfa and groves of olive, fig, and grape create a lush, vibrant landscape, before ending the day in Skoura Palm Oasis for an overnight stay.

Departing from Skoura in the morning, we journey to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” “Noiseless Town,” and “The Door of the Desert.” Situated on a barren plateau south of the High Atlas Mountains, this city is predominantly inhabited by Berbers, who constructed many of its renowned kasbahs and landmarks. Among them is the 17th-century Taourirt Kasbah, where we pause briefly for exterior photographs. Ouarzazate’s cinematic reputation stems from its status as Morocco’s leading film-making hub, attracting major productions such as *Lawrence of Arabia* (1962), *The Living Daylights* (1987), *The Last Temptation of Christ* (1988), *The Mummy* (1999), *Gladiator* (2000), *Kingdom of Heaven* (2005), *Kundun* (1997), and *Babel* (2005). From Ouarzazate, we travel approximately 30 km to the fortified village of Aït Benhaddou, dating back to the 11th century. Once a vital stop on the caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh, it rises along the Ounila River, showcasing remarkable kasbah architecture now weathered by rain and wind. Today, most residents live in a modern settlement across the river, with only about five families remaining within the historic site. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Aït Benhaddou has also been featured in numerous films, including *Lawrence of Arabia* (1962), *Time Bandits* (1981), *The Jewel of the Nile* (1985), *Kundun* (1997), *Gladiator* (2000), and *Alexander* (2004). From this extraordinary location, we proceed westward to Marrakesh, known in Berber as the “Homeland of God.” Before arriving at our accommodation, there may be opportunities to pause in the Atlas Mountains or, if time permits, take a short stroll through Jama el Fnaa Square, either before or after checking in.

At 10 a.m., your local guide will pick you up from your hotel or riad to start a morning tour of the old medina, wandering through the lively souks that fill the city with energy. Enjoy peaceful courtyards scented with orange blossoms and explore the elegant salons and chambers of Bahia Palace, an opulent residence built in 1866 for a former slave who rose to power in government. Visit the Marrakech Museum, once a palace, now home to an impressive display of Moroccan art and sculpture. Stop by the Koutoubia Mosque, whose iconic minaret inspired landmarks around the world, including La Giralda in Seville. Stroll through either the Majorelle Garden or the Secret Garden, and take in the Dar Bacha Museum. Finally, weave back through the winding streets of the old medina to Jemaa el Fna. After a one-hour break, dive into a delicious street food tour.

After an 8:30 am breakfast, hit the road from Marrakech to Essaouira, a charming seaside town known for its historic fortified walls. The drive takes about two and a half hours, with a 30-minute stop at a Berber women’s cooperative to learn about Argan Oil and the many uses of this remarkable tree. Perched at the meeting point of two tribes, Essaouira blends Moroccan character with southern African influences and a rich Jewish heritage. Loved by locals and visitors alike, it enjoys refreshing sea breezes that keep summers cool and winters mild. The town is famous for kite-surfing, beautiful beaches, a lively fishing harbor, sweeping ocean views, and an eclectic mix of architecture. Its unique light has inspired a thriving art scene. Stroll through the colorful medina and bustling souks, where artisans craft detailed Argan and juniper wood sculptures, then enjoy a fresh seafood lunch—a local specialty—before heading back to Marrakech for the night.

The 10-day journey through Morocco concludes with a transfer from Marrakech to Casablanca Airport, providing a seamless and efficient end to the adventure. This final leg ensures a smooth departure, following an immersive exploration of the country’s breathtaking landscapes and its vibrant, culturally rich heritage.