Casablanca to Essaouira
Combining the best of culture and coastal bliss, this two week tour of Morocco ensures you won't miss out on any of the key sights - the Imperial Cities of Marrakech, Fes, Rabat and Meknes, the dunes of the Sahara, ancient ruins and more, and then rewards you with a few days of rest and relaxation the Atlantic Coast in Essaouira.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Casablanca
Day 1 Casablanca
Upon arrival at the airport in Casablanca, you’ll be met and transferred to our hotel in the city. The remainder of the day is free for you enjoy at your own leisure. Why not find a restaurant in town to try the local cuisine?
Day 2 Marrakech City Tour
Day 2 Marrakech City Tour
Casablanca - Marrakech. This morning after breakfast we head to Marrakech to meet the rest of the group before embarking on a guided city tour of Marrakech. Inside the rose coloured medina walls is a tangle of winding streets and alleys that open onto verdant gardens and bustling souks. At the heart of the medina is Djemaa El Fna, the city's exuberant market place and towering over it, is the famous Koutoubia Mosque, the tallest building in the city.
Day 3 Ait Benhaddou
Day 3 Ait Benhaddou
Marrakech - Ait Benhaddou - Ouarzazate. Departing the city this morning we travel across the plains of haouz and reach the great High Atlas mountains. Climbing over the pass of Tizi n Tichka, we stop for lunch and then continue onwards with great views over the Mountains and valleys to Ait Benhaddou. This incredible ancient fortified Kasbah was built for defence purposes high on a hill and is a stunningly well preserved medieval city which has famously featured in many blockbuster movies, including Gladiator and Laurence of Arabia as its beauty is unequal to any other fortified kasbah in south Morocco. Carrying on we continue south to the Hollywood of North Africa – Ouarzazate (pronounced war-zazat). Ouarzazate is famous for being the filming location for many other Hollywood blockbusters and famous TV shows including James Bond – The Living Daylights, The Mummy and more recently Game of Thrones.
Day 4 Camel trek into the Sahara
Day 4 Camel trek into the Sahara
Ouarzazate - Todra Gorge - Merzouga (Sahara). This morning we begin our journey into the Sahara with a medley of palm trees, rose fields and magnificent gorges. Travelling from Ouarzazate, there is a possibility of visiting the kasbah Amherdhil in Skoura before seeing the rose fields and reaching scenic Todra Gorge. Surrounded by towering vertical limestone cliffs reaching heights of 1000ft, it is known as Morocco’s Grand Canyon. The charm of Todra lies in its changing colours as the sun slowly moves from east to west. After time to wander through Todra we hit the road again for Merzhouga – our base before we head into the Sahara. Depending on the time of year, spend the afternoon relaxing and swimming before climbing aboard our camels for an incredible trek into the Sahara Desert to watch a beautiful sunset and spend the night at our remote Berber Camp, nestled amongst the dunes of Erg Chebbi. We enjoy local food, music and an amazing night camping in the Sahara. If you would prefer to take a Jeep to the Berber camp, this can be arranged locally through your guide at no additional cost.
If you would prefer the comfort of a hotel with en-suite facilities this evening, opt for our Sahara hotel alternative at no additional cost. Please do let us know your preferred option at the time of booking.
Day 5 Merzouga
Day 5 Merzouga
Merzouga (Sahara) - Fes. Departing early, we climb back on our camels disembarking for a truly stunning sunrise. After freshening up and breakfast in Merzouga we’re back on the road heading for Fes. It’s a long drive today however there is a lot to see on the way. We’ll pass through cedar forests full of Barbary Macaque monkeys on our way through the Moyen Atlas mountains. Just before Fes we stop at Ifrane – a beautiful town often likened to a Swiss Alpine resort. Along the way we also start to see our first glimpse of Morocco’s nomadic Berbers – travelling across the mountains and often staying in make shift tents as they head to their next destination. We arrive into Fes in the early evening.
Day 6 Fes
Day 6 Fes
Fes is the oldest and largest medieval city in the world and its medina is a cacophony of aromas, sights and sounds. This morning we enjoy a guided tour of Fes el Bali - the old walled city. This fascinating medina is a veritable rabbit warren of 9400 alleys that often finish with dead ends – so be sure to stay close to the group! We also visit the dye-pits and tanneries before lunch in the medina. The remainder of the day is at leisure – why not take part in an optional Tagine Making Class or a night of Moroccan entertainment and food at a restaurant in town (both payable locally).
Day 7 Volubilis & Meknes
Day 7 Volubilis & Meknes
Fes - Volubilis - Meknes - Rabat. Departing Fes this morning we visit the fascinating UNESCO listed Roman ruins of Volubilis, which date back to AD40. Continuing on we stop at the Imperial City of Meknes, which became known as the Versailles of Morocco due to its impressive buildings and elaborate monuments. After lunch and some free time our final stop of the day is Rabat – Morocco’s capital where we overnight.
Day 8 Rabat & Casablanca
Day 8 Rabat & Casablanca
Rabat - Casablanca - Marrakech. This morning we take a guided tour of Rabat and visit some of the capital’s highlights, including the impressive Chellah - a necropolis and complex of ancient, medieval ruins, the Royal Palace and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. After lunch we continue to Casablanca where we visit the Hassan II Mosque, which has the tallest minaret and is the third largest mosque in the world - it can hold 25,000 worshippers at any one time. After our visit to the mosque we drive on toMarrakech for the night.
Day 9 Essaouira
Day 9 Essaouira
Marrakech - Essaouira. Today we have a leisurely morning before starting our journey to Essaouira on Morocco's Atlantic Coast via private transfer, and upon arrival enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure. Why not find a restaurant in the charming old town and try the local cuisine.
Days 10-12 Free time in Essaouira
Days 10-12 Free time in Essaouira
Essaouira - Casablanca. Spend the next three days exploring the sights and delights of Essaouira at your own pace. Set on the rugged shores of the breezy Atlantic Coast, this charming seaside city offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech. While away the days here exploring its winding streets lined with whitewashed houses, picking your way through the shops in its ancient medina, or sitting at an ocean-facing restaurant sipping on a cup of coffee. During the warmer months why not try some water sports too, as the windy shores here offer ideal conditions for wind and kite surfing. On the evening of day 12 a private transfer will take you back to Casablanca for the night.
Day 13 Casablanca
Day 13 Casablanca
Our amazing tour of Morocco ends today after hotel check out. An included onward departure transfer to Casablanca airport will be provided.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Situated in the heart of Casablanca, Hotel Odyssee Center combines contemporary elegance with Moroccan flair. Residing between the bustling city centre and the picturesque coastline, the hotel features sleek, modern décor infused with traditional touches. The comfortable guest rooms are well-appointed with all the modern conveniences and offer views of the vibrant cityscape. With a boutique and concept store, a chic restaurant offering a blend of local and international cuisine, and an elegant bar and cigar lounge, guests have a variety of options to unwind. The hotel also boasts a fitness centre, for guests looking to keep up with their fitness regime.
Located between the sea and Anfa mount, Hotel Club Val d’Anfa is in one of the most prestigious residential districts of Casablanca. Combining warm colours, ceramic tiles and fine wood, the interior decor was inspired by Amazigh art. The attractive guest rooms contain all the modern amenities needed for your stay and face either the sea, hotel gardens or the Casablanca Corniche. Boasting three restaurants, two bars, a fitness centre, spa and pool - there's certainly plenty to keep guests entertained.
Guests can expect a very comfortable stay at the Adam Park Hotel & Spa. Each of the elegant rooms feature a patio or balcony with views of the surrounding area. Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining. Several restaurants offer a variety of options including Italian specialities, Moroccan favourites and international cuisine. There are also plenty of ways to unwind after a day exploring Marrakech, with an outdoor pool, fitness centre and a spa offering rejuvenating massage treatments.
This intimate Riad has just 9 rooms whilst also offering an array of spa features including Turkish steam bath, massage treatments and Turkish baths as well as an indoor pool. If you are feeling a little more energetic you can enjoy hiking, horse-back riding and golf in the surrounding area. The accommodation is situated in the heart of Marrakech, near Rahba Kedima Square. Attractions within an easy drive include Jardin Majorelle Garden, Koutoubia Mosque and Saadian Tombs and the riad is an easy is 15 minutes' walk to the city centre.
Ksar Ben Youssef is a newly built, traditional hotel located just 5kms from the centre of Ouarzazate. Offering 18 spacious air-conditioned rooms, with a variety of bedding configurations. Its large pool, overlooked by a rooftop terrace with shady nooks, is the perfect respite from the desert heat. Guests can enjoy a buffet style breakfast from the on-site restaurant or dine on one of the many terraces.
Nestled in the heights of Ouarzazate's old district of Ait kdif, Dar Amoudou is a guest house with nine traditional styled rooms that offer all the modern comforts of a luxury hotel including; air conditioning, heating, free Wi-Fi, satellite channels and of course, en-suite facilities. Offering breathtaking views of Ouarzazate and the Atlas Mountains, the attractive terrace is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the magical surroundings, whilst also enjoying traditional Moroccan cuisine.
Set amongst the bright orange dunes of Erg Chebbi, Touareg Berber camp is designed with a traditional Moroccan theme. Tents are simply furnished with metal framed double, twin or triple beds. All bedding is provided including a pillow, sheets and a blanket (more blankets in winter). A Moroccan rug on the floor and solar generated electricity (after night fall). The camp has two toilet blocks and a large dining tent. Camping out in the desert is an incredible experience. Watch the sunset over the dunes, enjoy simple but tasty Moroccan cuisine and spend the evening by the camp fire, under a spectacular star filled sky.
Hotel Atlas Saiss Fes is a popular 4 star hotel, conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from Nouvelle Ville. The hotel offers spacious and comfortable guest rooms, equipped with free WiFi, flat screen TVs, air conditioning and en suite bathrooms. Facilities include a restaurant, 24 hour room service and a sauna (at an additional cost). Start the day with a generous continental breakfast before heading out to explore the enchanting imperial city of Fes. After a busy day, relax on the hotel terrace, enjoy a tasty meal at the restaurant or rejuvenate in the sauna.
Boasting a fantastic location, just a short walk from the entrance to the Kasbah of the Udayas, Riad Dar Alia is wonderful choice for a stay in the capital. It offers a number of uniquely decorated rooms in a traditional Moroccan style. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property and a restaurant serves a variety of Moroccan specialities.
Riad Zouhour has been recently and lovingly restored in a charming and traditional style. Located in the Medina District of Rabat, and just a two-minute walk to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Kasbah of the Udayas; the Hassan Tower Mosque and Royal Palace of Rabat are also within easy walking proximity to the riad. Its rooms are quiet and comfortable, and you can enjoy some R&R in the hamman after a busy day exploring, or just sit and relax on the sun terrace and patio.
The elegant Atlas Essaouira & Spa is set on Essaouira's beachfront, with its own private beach. Kick back and relax at the hotel which has two swimming pools alongside a poolside bar and delightful terrace. For a spot of pampering, head to the hotel spa with its traditional hammam. There's also a fitness centre on site and the hotel has a choice of two restaurants. A traditional Moroccan and Mediterranean restaurant and a beachfront restaurant serving seafood and grilled dishes. The air-conditioned guestrooms are bright, modern and spacious, with satellite TV, WiFi and a mini bar.
Located in the residential district, the Zahra offers calm, relaxation and a peaceful stay. Its comfortable guestrooms are decorated in traditional Moroccan style and are equipped with an en suite and satellite TV. The property has a restaurant serving Moroccan and international specialities. There is another restaurant that serves grilled dishes. Riad Zahra is an ideal starting point for nautical activities or to discover Essaouira and the surrounding area. For your entertainment, the hotel proposes numerous activities including desert trips in a 4x4, surfing and kite surfing lessons.
Tour Reviews
Casablanca to Essaouira - 13 daysCombining the best of culture and coastal bliss, this two week tour of Morocco ensures you won't miss out on any of the key sights - the Imperial Cities of Marrakech, Fes, Rabat and Meknes, the dunes of the Sahara, ancient ruins and more, and then rewards you with a few days of rest and relaxation the Atlantic Coast in Essaouira. Signature132711.5It was a great tour. All was well done except the arrival being unclear.. 2 problems: 1. The phone number for the local office was presented in a format foreign to me. A plus sign? 0 in parentheses? 2. Arrival Hall sounds like a room I couldn't find. It was outside. It needs to be clearer.
Casablanca to Essaouira - 13 daysCombining the best of culture and coastal bliss, this two week tour of Morocco ensures you won't miss out on any of the key sights - the Imperial Cities of Marrakech, Fes, Rabat and Meknes, the dunes of the Sahara, ancient ruins and more, and then rewards you with a few days of rest and relaxation the Atlantic Coast in Essaouira. Signature132711.5The tour around Morocco was incredible. We saw a lot of historic beautiful cities, tried delicious local cuisine and saw beautiful diverse nature. Our highlight of the trip was travelling through Sahara desert on camels. Our guides were very knowledgeable and friendly, and our group was fun and friendly as well. Overall we really enjoyed the trip. One thing that could be improved is the bus; it was great for short trips but for longer drives it was a bit uncomfortable but everything else was great.
Casablanca to Essaouira - 13 daysCombining the best of culture and coastal bliss, this two week tour of Morocco ensures you won't miss out on any of the key sights - the Imperial Cities of Marrakech, Fes, Rabat and Meknes, the dunes of the Sahara, ancient ruins and more, and then rewards you with a few days of rest and relaxation the Atlantic Coast in Essaouira. Signature132711.5I loved every day of this vacation. From Jamal, our guide, to the driver, everything was perfect.
Casablanca to Essaouira - 13 daysCombining the best of culture and coastal bliss, this two week tour of Morocco ensures you won't miss out on any of the key sights - the Imperial Cities of Marrakech, Fes, Rabat and Meknes, the dunes of the Sahara, ancient ruins and more, and then rewards you with a few days of rest and relaxation the Atlantic Coast in Essaouira. Signature132711.5Very few negatives. Hotel access to WIFI could be improved. Hotel in Casablanca upon arrival not great. Overall instead of an A+ - an A. Thank you for an incredible experience.
Casablanca to Essaouira - 13 daysCombining the best of culture and coastal bliss, this two week tour of Morocco ensures you won't miss out on any of the key sights - the Imperial Cities of Marrakech, Fes, Rabat and Meknes, the dunes of the Sahara, ancient ruins and more, and then rewards you with a few days of rest and relaxation the Atlantic Coast in Essaouira. Signature132711.5The trip was amazing. We were a group of 10 - of which 8 made lasting friends. Lhoucine Baigha was our driver and I felt safe with him behind the wheel. Lhoucine Ouzaouit - oh my word! What an excellent guide always friendly and helpful. Overall it was a great trip. I envy the future groups that go with Lhoucine as their guide!
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