Best 5-Day Desert Tour From Casablanca

5-Day Morocco Desert Tour from Casablanca: Explore the Sahara and Beyond

Imagine yourself riding a camel through the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert, watching the sunset over the vast horizon. Or perhaps you’re exploring a traditional Moroccan kasbah, learning about the country’s rich culture and history. This is just a taste of what you can expect on our epic 5-day desert tour from Casablanca.

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Overview

Our 5-day Morocco tour begins in Casablanca and ends in Marrakech, showcasing the country’s most stunning attractions. We’ll start by visiting the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, followed by a walk through the narrow streets and alleys of Fes’s ancient medina, where we’ll also visit Al Quaraouiyine, one of the oldest universities.

Next, we’ll journey to the Sahara Desert of Merzouga, where you’ll have the chance to ride a camel across the Erg Chebbi sand dunes and admire the desert’s breathtaking colors and landscapes. On our return north, we’ll stop to marvel at the Todgha and Dades Gorges and the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou. Our final destination is the Red City of Marrakech, Morocco’s most popular tourist destination.

5-Day Desert Tour from Casablanca itinerary

Day 1: Casablanca to Fes via Rabat

We’ll begin your 5-day Merzouga Desert tour from Casablanca, where we’ll pick you up from your accommodation. Our first stop is the Hassan II Mosque, the seventh-largest mosque in the world and one of the few religious establishments in Morocco open to non-Muslims.

Next, we’ll head to Rabat, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. There, we’ll visit the Hassan Tower, a minaret begun in the 12th century but never completed, and the Kasbah of the Oudayas, a fortified settlement overlooking the Bou Regreg River. We’ll also have the chance to explore the Chellah site, a ruined necropolis dating back to the Phoenician era.

In the evening, we’ll hit the road to Fes, where we’ll spend the night in a traditional riad, a Moroccan house with a central courtyard.

Day 2: Fes guided tour

On the second day of your 5-day Sahara desert tour from Casablanca, you’ll delve into the vibrant city of Fes, guided by a knowledgeable local. First on our agenda is the Royal Palace, also referred to as Dar al-Makhzen. Following this, we’ll venture to The Mellah, the oldest Jewish district in Morocco, dating back to 1438. Situated in Fes El Jdid, this district was once the domain of the sultan’s Syrian archers.

Our journey continues with a visit to Borj Nord, offering a breathtaking panoramic vista of the city. Subsequently, we’ll explore the tanneries and meander through the ancient Medina’s labyrinthine streets. Notably, we’ll explore the hallowed halls of Al Quaraouiyine and Al Bouaanania universities. A captivating day in Fes awaits before we conclude with an overnight stay in the same city.

Day 3: Fes to Merzouga

On the third day of your 5-day Moroccan desert tour from Casablanca, you’ll embark on the highlight of the tour: a camel trek into the Sahara Desert of Merzouga. But first, you’ll make a few stops along the way.

Your first stop is Ifrane, a charming mountain town known for its Swiss-inspired architecture and cedar forests.

Here, you’ll take a break to see the Atlas Lion Statue, a carved stone lion that was created by a German prisoner of war during World War II.

Next, you’ll head to Azrou, a town nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains. Here, you’ll have the chance to visit the Cedar Forest, where you can see Barbary macaques, a species of wild monkey that is native to Morocco.

After lunch, you’ll drive across the High Atlas Mountains, one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in North Africa. Along the way, you’ll stop to admire the stunning views of the peaks and valleys.

In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, a small town on the edge of the Sahara Desert. Here, you’ll meet your camel guide and embark on a camel trek into the desert.

As you ride your camel through the sand dunes, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into another world. The silence and solitude of the desert are truly breathtaking.

After a few hours of riding, you’ll arrive at your desert camp. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, listen to Berber music, and climb up the dunes for stars gazing.

Day 4: Merzouga to Dades Gorges

On the fourth day of your 5-day Sahara Desert tour from Casablanca, you’ll wake up early to catch the magnificent sunrise over the Sahara Desert. After breakfast, you’ll mount your camels and ride back to the starting point.

Your driver will be waiting for you there to begin the day’s journey. Your first stop is the city of Rissani, a former caravan town that is now known for its lively souk (market). Here, you’ll have the chance to browse the stalls and admire the traditional Moroccan handicrafts.

The souk is busiest on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, so if you’re visiting on one of those days, be prepared for crowds. Next, you’ll drive across the Tafilalt oasis, a fertile region that is home to a variety of crops, including palm trees and date palms.

Along the way, you’ll stop to see an old irrigation system that has been used for centuries to water the crops. For lunch, you’ll stop in the town of Tingjdad. After lunch, you’ll continue your journey to the stunning Todgha Gorges.

These towering limestone canyons are located at an altitude of 1,300 meters and extend for over 30 kilometers. The Todgha Gorges are a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Dades Gorges, another beautiful canyon system.

Here, you’ll see the famous Monkey Toes rock formations, which are said to resemble the toes of a monkey. You’ll spend the night in a traditional riad in the Dades Gorges.

Day 5: Dades Gorges to Marrakech

On the fifth and final day of your 5-day Erg Chebbi Desert tour from Casablanca, you’ll drive through the land of roses and the road of a thousand kasbahs. Your first stop is Ouarzazate, known as the “Cinema City” for its many film studios.

Here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Taourirt Kasbah, a fortified village that has been used as a filming location for many Hollywood movies, and Atlas Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world.

Next, you’ll head to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous tourist sites in southern Morocco. This fortified village made of earthen buildings is perched on a hill in the middle of a valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

After lunch, you’ll continue your journey to Marrakech, passing by the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest mountain pass in Morocco. Along the way, you’ll make a stop to take in the panoramic views and another stop to visit an argan oil cooperative, if you’re interested.

Argan oil is a prized Moroccan product that is made from the kernels of the argan tree. It is used in cooking, cosmetics, and traditional medicine.

Finally, you’ll arrive in Marrakech, the vibrant Red City of Morocco. Here, you’ll be dropped off at the airport or accommodation, marking the end of your 5-day cultural and desert tour from Casablanca.

Reviews

Amazing Morocco Experience with Aziz as Guide

Aziz, our attentive and patient guide, led us on an unforgettable five-day excursion to the breathtaking Moroccan desert, mountains, and beach. We were so captivated by the country's beauty that we extended our trip to include an ocean voyage. Aziz answered all our questions with enthusiasm, sharing fascinating stories about Morocco's culture and people. We fell in love with Morocco and can't wait to return. We highly recommend this agency for its serious attitude and competitive rates.

Carlos T

December 2022

Unforgettable 5-Day Moroccan Desert Tour with Lhoussain

We went on a 5-day adventure in Morocco. We started in Casablanca, a busy city with a lot of history and culture. Our guide was Lhoussain, a skilled driver who knew a lot about Morocco. We visited many places including Fes, the Atlas Mountains, and the Merzouga Desert. Riding camels into the desert was amazing, and we slept in a traditional desert camp. Lhoussain was very helpful during the long car drives by telling us stories about Morocco. We learned a lot during the trip, and we want to go on another adventure with Lhoussain soon.

Twener A

Janauary 2023

Great experience

A few years ago, I met Ali, a friendly and courteous tour guide in Casablanca. Ali and his friends helped me and my friends plan an unforgettable road trip through Morocco. Ali knows how to treat tourists and make them feel comfortable. He is a valuable asset to any travel agency.

Jorgen Z

December 2022

Stunning Views

The tour from Casablanca offers stunning views of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from the ancient city of Fes to the majestic sand dunes of the Merzouga desert. You’ll be awestruck by the beauty of the region’s historical sites, including the Fes el Bali medina, the Chouara Tannery, and the Bou Inania Madrasa. In the Merzouga desert, you’ll ride camels through the towering dunes and enjoy a traditional Moroccan feast under the stars. This tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Morocco.

Hotel Pickup & Dropoff

Our Casablanca tour offers convenient round-trip transportation from your accommodation or the airport, so you can relax and enjoy your journey without having to worry about logistics. Our experienced drivers will pick you up and drop you off at the end of the tour, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free travel experience.

Professional Guide/driver

Our 5-day Morocco tour from Casablanca is led by the best guides in Morocco, including English-speaking drivers who will provide informative commentary on the main attractions you visit, and a local guide in Fes. This ensures that you have a comprehensive and enriching travel experience, learning about Morocco’s rich culture and history from knowledgeable and passionate locals.

Photography locations

This 5-day Morocco tour is a photographer’s dream come true. With its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant colors, Morocco has something to offer everyone. You’ll have the opportunity to capture stunning photos of Fes’s ancient medina, the Sahara desert’s towering dunes, and the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou’s iconic architecture.

Any Questions?

We’re here to answer all your questions about our Morocco tour itinerary. Contact us today via our booking request, phone number, or email.

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Sites overview

Casablanca, Morocco: A Vibrant City with a Rich History

Our 5-day tour starting point is Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and economic hub, on the Atlantic coast and known as “Dar al Beida” in Arabic and “White House” in Spanish. With over 7.2 million people, it’s densely populated and a key commercial and industrial center, featuring North Africa’s largest port.

Casablanca is more than just numbers; it’s a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Explore the lively marketplace, known as the medina, and visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque, a masterpiece of architecture. The city is a blend of Moroccan and European influences, offering something for everyone, whether you’re into history, food, or shopping. Casablanca is a dynamic city that caters to diverse interests, making it a must-visit destination.

Explore the Rich History of Fes on Your 5-Day Tour from Casablanca

The city of Fez is in the north of Morocco and is full of history, handcrafted items, and a strong economy. The city has two main areas, the old town, and the plateau district, both showing Morocco’s rich history. Fez is not only culturally significant but also a significant contributor to the economy.

The city makes various goods, such as leather, textiles, metalwork, dyes, pottery, handicrafts, carpets, jewelry, and perfumes. Moreover, Fez is not only self-sufficient but also plays a significant role in regional trade by connecting urban and rural economies. Fez is the capital city of one of Morocco’s 16 provinces and has a rich history that visitors can explore by wandering through the old town’s winding streets and the vibrant marketplace. Anyone who visits Fez can experience the multifaceted essence of Morocco’s history, commerce, and culture.

Merzouga Sahara Desert: Where Dreams Come True

Merzouga, located a mere 45 kilometers from Erfoud and approximately 20 kilometers from the Algerian border, stands as one of the last villages before the sweeping Sahara desert landscape takes over, an integral part of your thrilling desert adventure starting from Casablanca.

As the gateway to your 5-day desert tour from Casablanca, Merzouga is the perfect starting point for exploring the remarkable Erg Chebbi dunes, known for their towering heights, with some exceeding 150 meters. It’s a picture-perfect desert with undulating golden sands that stretch as far as the eye can see.

As the day turns into night, immerse yourself in the heart of Merzouga’s culture with authentic Moroccan entertainment. The rhythmic beats of drums fuse harmoniously with captivating folk dances, all while savoring a delectable feast of tagine, freshly baked bread, and couscous.

For an added adventure after your 5-day desert tour from Casablanca, consider a trip to Dayet Srji. This saltwater lake, located west of Merzouga, is a year-round sanctuary for rare species. Birdwatchers will be particularly delighted by the presence of flamingos, buzzards, and falcons during the spring months. Reptile enthusiasts can spot snakes and lizards, while gerbils and desert foxes abound in the area.

Discover the Majestic Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou on Your 5-Day Desert Adventure from Casablanca

The Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, situated approximately 29 kilometers from the city of Ouarzazate, holds the esteemed status of a UNESCO-protected World Heritage Site. This fortified town stands as a quintessential example of traditional Moroccan mud-brick architecture, particularly prevalent in the pre-Saharan region.

Moreover, Ait-Ben-Haddou has earned acclaim in the world of cinematography, drawing admiration from directors across the globe. Countless iconic films, including “Jesus of Nazareth,” “The Mummy,” “Gladiator,” and “Alexander,” have chosen this remarkable location as their backdrop.

Nestled on the left bank of the Ouarzazate River, this historical gem once served as a vital stop along the caravan route from Marrakech to Timbuktu. Believed to have been constructed in the 11th century, the Ksar still accommodates numerous families within its ancient walls, many of whom offer unique souvenirs to visitors.

As you wander amidst these ancient walls, you can’t help but conjure up vivid associations with the events that may have unfolded here in bygone eras. Ait Ben Haddou is undeniably a captivating and intriguing destination for all to explore.

Discovering the Enchantment of Marrakech: Exploring the Lively Core of Morocco

Marrakech stands as one of Morocco’s most sought-after tourist destinations, boasting a rich history and a multitude of attractions to enthrall travelers. It was founded in 1062 by Abu Bakr ibn Umar, the cousin of the Almoravid king, and once served as Morocco’s capital, earning its place among the country’s four imperial cities. As the fourth-largest city in Morocco, following Casablanca, Tangier, and Rabat, Marrakech has earned various nicknames, including “the red city,” attributed to the reddish earth and perhaps the king’s fondness for the color during that era.

Marrakech holds the distinction of being the regional capital within Marrakesh Safi, and it offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors to explore:

Jamaa El Fna Square: Marrakech boasts the lively Jamaa El Fna square, a bustling hub reminiscent of central squares in Moroccan cities. Here, you’ll encounter snake charmers, street performers, and Halqa, a traditional storytelling art surrounded by captivated audiences. The square is a bustling marketplace with vendors selling a wide array of items, including South African immigrants offering watches, clothing, and mobile phones. Additionally, the square is adorned with restaurants and cafes that provide stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.

Koutoubia Mosque: Marrakech is home to numerous mosques, with the largest and most renowned being the Koutoubia Mosque, also known as the Kutubiyya Mosque. Its name harks back to the book-selling district that once surrounded it. Constructed in 1147 by Almohad caliph Abd al Mu’min ibn Ali, the mosque features a towering minaret that reaches nearly 77 meters in height, bearing resemblance to the Giralda Mosque in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat.

Majorelle Garden: Among Marrakech’s top attractions, the Majorelle Garden draws approximately 900,000 visitors annually. It is named after the French artist Jacques Majorelle, who dedicated nearly four decades to its creation. Following his passing, the garden was acquired and preserved by French fashion designers Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, who later opened it to the public. Entry typically requires a ticket, priced around 70DH, with discounts available for specific IDs.

Menara Garden: Dating back to the 12th century and commissioned by the Almohad leader Abd al Mu’min ibn Ali, the Menara Garden derives its name, which means “lighthouse,” despite the absence of an actual lighthouse. This garden offers a serene refuge from the city’s heat, providing visitors with a picturesque setting to relish

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Is the 5-day tour from Casablanca not suitable for you? We’ve tailored a selection of outstanding tour itineraries in Morocco to suit your preferences. If these itineraries don’t align with your desired cities or the number of days you wish to spend exploring Morocco, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time. Your journey can be uniquely designed to meet your specific needs and aspirations.

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