Tour Description

5 Days from Casablanca to Merzouga Desert

Begin your Moroccan adventure in Casablanca, the energetic Atlantic-coast city, then journey deep into the heart of the country: through imperial cities, high mountains, palm-lined valleys, and finally the golden dunes of the Sahara at Merzouga. This 5-day tour offers an immersive blend of culture, nature and desert magic — ride camels, sleep under the stars, explore historic kasbahs and witness Morocco's dramatic landscapes.

Itinerary

Day 1

Casablanca → Rabat → Meknès/Volubilis → Fès

Pick up in Casablanca in the morning. Travel to the capital Rabat, visit its landmarks (Kasbah of the Udayas, Hassan Tower). Continue via Meknès and the Roman ruins at Volubilis. Arrive in Fès in the evening, stay overnight.

Day 2

Fès → Ifrane / Azrou → Midelt → Ziz Valley → Merzouga (Erg Chebbi dunes)

After breakfast depart Fès, cross the Middle & High Atlas (via Ifrane/Azrou), through Midelt, then Ziz Valley with lush palms. Arrive at Merzouga late afternoon. Camel ride into the dunes for sunset; overnight in a desert camp.

Day 3

Merzouga Desert Exploration → Todra Gorges → Dades Valley

Wake for sunrise over the dunes, then breakfast. Leave the desert towards the Todra Gorges (dramatic canyon walls), then continue to the Dades Valley for the night in a riad or hotel.

Day 4

Dades Valley → Ouarzazate → Aït Ben Haddou → Tizi n'Tichka Pass → Marrakech

After breakfast, drive via the Rose Valley / Skoura to Ouarzazate, visit the UNESCO-listed kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou. Then cross the Atlas Mountains (Tizi n'Tichka) to Marrakech. Evening at leisure and overnight in Marrakech.

Day 5

Marrakech (highlights) → Casablanca

Optional brief visit of Marrakech highlights (time permitting), then transfer back to Casablanca. Drop-off at your accommodation or airport. End of tour.

What's Included

Included

  • Pickup & drop-off at accommodation in Casablanca
  • Comfortable A/C vehicle + experienced driver/guide
  • 4 nights' accommodation: Fès, desert camp, Dades/Ouarzazate, Marrakech
  • Camel trek in Merzouga dunes (sunset & optionally sunrise)
  • Breakfasts and dinners as per itinerary
  • Selected stops and sightseeing per plan

Not Included

  • Lunches and drinks unless specified
  • Entrance fees to monuments, museums or kasbahs
  • Optional activities (quad biking, dune buggy, etc)
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips/gratuities and personal expenses

Additional Details

Departure Time

Early morning (7-8 AM)

Duration

5 Days / 4 Nights

Group Size

Private or small-group tours

Accommodation

Hotels/riads + desert camp

Best Season

Spring & Autumn

What to Bring

Light & warm clothes, sunscreen

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is the driving each day?

Quite substantial. On the earlier days you cover Casablanca to Fès via Rabat & Meknès; then Fès to Merzouga through mountains and valleys; later you return via Ouarzazate and Atlas passes with an overnight in Marrakech. Plan for several hours of driving each day with stops.

Is the desert camp comfortable?

Yes, most camps offer proper tents, mattresses, dinner, blankets, and sunrise/sunset camel treks. Upgrades available for luxury tents with private bathroom.

Are meals suitable for vegetarians/vegans?

Many tour operators can accommodate dietary preferences if informed in advance.

Can I skip the camel ride?

Yes, if needed the provider can arrange 4×4 transport into/out of the dunes rather than camels.

Can the tour start later or end in another city?

Many operators are flexible — you could start or end in Marrakech, or modify route. Ask for customisation.

What's the best time of year?

Avoid the extreme heat of peak summer in the desert; spring and autumn are best. Winter nights in desert can be cold.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?

Yes — if mobility is okay and you don't mind the driving distances. Adjustments (shorter camel ride, easier pace) can be made.