Welcome to the journey of a lifetime. Our signature 10-Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Casablanca is not merely a vacation; it is a meticulously crafted narrative that takes you through the beating heart of the Maghreb. Designed for the curious traveler who seeks depth over breadth, this itinerary solves the eternal “Morocco Dilemma”: how to experience the diverse extremes of this North African kingdom—from the snow-capped Atlas Mountains to the burning sands of the Sahara, and from the medieval labyrinths of Fes to the modern Atlantic coast—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Why is this specific 10 days tour from Marrakech to Casablanca our most requested journey? Because it follows the natural “flow” of the landscape. You begin in the sensory intensity of Marrakech, the “Red City,” where the pulse of Africa beats strongest. From there, you ascend. You will traverse the high passes of the Atlas Mountains, witnessing a dramatic shift in geology and culture as you cross from the fertile north to the arid pre-Sahara. The journey reaches its emotional crescendo in the silence of the Merzouga dunes, offering a profound counterpoint to the city noise. Finally, you loop northward through the intellectual capital of Fes and the dreamlike blue streets of Chefchaouen, before concluding in the cosmopolitan grandeur of Casablanca.
This 10 Day Trip from Marrakech to Casablanca via Merzouga is built on the philosophy of “slow travel.” Unlike frantic 7-day dashes that leave you exhausted, our 10-day pace allows for “decompression time.” It means spending two nights in the desert to truly understand the silence. It means having a full day to get lost in Fes without checking your watch. Whether you are a couple seeking romantic sunsets, a family wanting to introduce your children to a new world safely, or a photographer chasing the perfect light, this is your definitive Morocco Itinerary 10 days from Marrakech.
For both search engines and human dreamers, these are the experiential pillars that define this Marrakech Desert Tour 10 Days. These aren’t just stops; they are chapters in your travel story.
The Red City Immersion (Marrakech): Dive deep into the UNESCO-listed Medina. Stand beneath the 77-meter Koutoubia Minaret, wander the opulent courts of the Bahia Palace, and witness the nightly carnival of storytellers and musicians in Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
The Great Atlas Crossing: Drive the legendary Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m). This engineering marvel offers sweeping panoramic views where the High Atlas peaks give way to the pre-Saharan oases.
Hollywood of Africa (Ait Ben Haddou): Walk in the footsteps of Gladiator and Game of Thrones at the Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou. This mud-brick fortress is a masterclass in traditional earthen architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Geological Wonders: Marvel at the “Monkey Toes” rock formations in the Dades Valley and walk beneath the towering 300-meter vertical limestone cliffs of the Todra Gorges, a paradise for rock climbers.
Sahara Desert Magic (Merzouga): The crown jewel of the 10 Days Casablanca via Sahara Desert Tour from Marrakech. Experience a sunset camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes and sleep in a Luxury Desert Camp under a canopy of a million stars.
Deep Cultural Connection: engage with the Gnawa people of Khamlia to hear their spiritual music and visit real nomadic families in the “Black Desert” to understand their resilient way of life.
The Alpine Surprise (Ifrane): Discover “Little Switzerland,” a clean, modern town with alpine chalets and snow in winter, and meet the endangered Barbary Macaques in the ancient Cedar Forest of Azrou.
Medieval Time Travel (Fes): Step back 1,000 years in Fes el-Bali, the world’s largest car-free urban zone. smell the leather at the Chouara Tanneries and visit Al-Qarawiyyin, the oldest degree-granting university in the world.
The Blue Pearl (Chefchaouen): Wander the surreal, blue-washed alleyways of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains. It is a photographer’s dream and a peaceful respite from the busy imperial cities.
Roman History (Volubilis): Walk on the intricate mosaics of Volubilis, the southern outpost of the Roman Empire, where history is written on the floor.
Imperial Grandeur (Rabat & Casablanca): Pay respects at the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and stand in awe before the Hassan II Mosque, one of the few mosques in the world built directly over the ocean.
In a digital sea of generic travel offers, why should you trust Visit Maghreb travel agency with your 10 Days Desert tour from Marrakech to Casablanca?
1. Authentic Local Authority (E-E-A-T) We don’t just sell tours; we are the locals who live them. Our itineraries are designed to answer the specific questions modern travelers have. We know that Google Maps doesn’t work in the Fes Medina. We know which hour the light hits the Blue City perfectly for photos. We know the “donkey parking lot” in Rissani that isn’t in the guidebooks. This 10 Day Trip from Marrakech to Casablanca is crafted with the “Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness” that guarantees you aren’t buying a package, but a curated reality.
2. Private means Personal You will travel in a high-end, air-conditioned 4×4 (Toyota Prado/Land Cruiser) or a luxury minivan (Mercedes Vito) exclusive to your group. There is no waiting for strangers. If you want to stop to photograph a herd of camels, we stop. If you want to linger over mint tea with a carpet seller, we wait. Your driver is more than a chauffeur; they are your cultural bridge, translating the language, the menu, and the customs of Morocco for you.
3. Ethical & Sustainable Travel We believe tourism should benefit the locals. On this 10 days in Morocco from Marrakech, we prioritize stops at women’s cooperatives for argan oil and rugs, ensuring the money goes to the artisans, not middlemen. We use eco-friendly desert camps that respect the fragile Saharan ecosystem.
4. The Luxury of Time Many agencies try to cram this route into 7 days. We refuse to do that. A Marrakech to Casablanca desert tour 10 days requires time to be enjoyed, not endured. Our “two-night” policy in the desert and Fes prevents burnout and allows for genuine connection with the places you visit.
our 10-Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Casablanca begins the moment your plane touches down at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). You will be greeted by your private driver from Visit Maghreb, holding a sign with your name. This simple gesture removes the stress of navigating taxi haggling after a long flight.
The Transfer: You will be whisked away to the Medina. Since cars cannot enter the narrowest streets, a porter with a charrette (handcart) will carry your luggage to your Riad. The Riad Experience: You won’t be staying in a generic hotel. A Riad is a traditional Moroccan home centered around an open courtyard with a fountain and garden. It is an architectural metaphor for the Moroccan family: plain on the outside for privacy, but a paradise on the inside. You will be welcomed with your first glass of “Berber Whiskey” (sweet mint tea) and Moroccan pastries. Evening: If you arrive early enough, we recommend a sunset walk to Jemaa el-Fnaa. Watch the square transform from a market of orange juice sellers to a massive open-air dining hall filled with smoke, drums, and storytellers. It is the perfect chaotic introduction to the Red City.
Overnight at Riad/Hotel in Marrakech
Today is dedicated to a deep dive into Marrakech’s history with a certified local guide.
The Morning: After a breakfast of msemen (pancakes) and local honey, your guide meets you. You start at the Koutoubia Mosque, the city’s spiritual compass. Its 77-meter minaret is the prototype for the Giralda in Seville. You then visit the Bahia Palace, a 19th-century masterpiece of painted wood and zellige tiles built for a Grand Vizier and his harem.
The Afternoon: We explore the Saadian Tombs, a hidden necropolis of gold and marble rediscovered in 1917. Then, we enter the Souks. Your guide will navigate you through the dyer’s souk (where wool hangs drying in the sun), the metalworkers’ souk, and the leather souk. You will see artisans using techniques that haven’t changed in centuries.
The Garden: We finish the day at the Majorelle Garden. Created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and saved by Yves Saint Laurent, its electric “Majorelle Blue” villas and exotic cactus collection offer a cool, serene counterpoint to the Medina’s intensity.
Overnight at Riad/Hotel in Marrakech
This is a day of dramatic transitions on your 10 Day Trip from Marrakech to Casablanca via Merzouga.
The Ascent: We leave the plains and climb the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m). The road winds through switchbacks, offering views of Berber villages built from the very earth they stand on. In winter, these peaks are white with snow; in spring, the valleys are green with barley.
The UNESCO Icon: We descend into the Ounila Valley to Ait Ben Haddou. This Ksar (fortified village) is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a star of cinema, appearing in Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Game of Thrones. You will cross the river and climb through its winding streets to the granary at the top for a panoramic view of the ancient caravan route.
The Road of a Thousand Kasbahs: We continue past Ouarzazate and the Skoura Palm Grove. The landscape turns to red rock and rose bushes as we enter the Dades Valley. You will see the strange “Monkey Toes” rock formations before settling into your hotel for dinner.
Overnight at Riad/Hotel in Dades
Today, the landscape dries out, shifting from mountains to the vast pre-Sahara.
The Gorge: First, we visit the Todra Gorges. Here, massive limestone cliffs rise 300 meters vertically, sandwiching the river and the road. It is a humbling place to walk and a world-famous spot for rock climbers.
The Fossils: We pass through Erfoud, known as the fossil capital. 380 million years ago, this desert was a sea. You can visit a workshop to see how locals mine and polish ammonites and trilobites into sinks and tables.
The Dunes: The paved road ends at Merzouga. Here, you pack a small overnight bag (your luggage stays safe in the car) and meet your camel caravan.
The Trek: You will ride your camel into the Erg Chebbi dunes as the sun sets. The silence of the desert is absolute. The sand shifts color from gold to blood orange to purple.
The Camp: You arrive at your Luxury Desert Camp. This is “glamping” at its finest—a private tent with a real bed, electricity, and an ensuite bathroom with a hot shower. Dinner is served under the stars, followed by traditional drumming around the fire. This is the highlight of the 10 Days Casablanca via Sahara Desert Tour from Marrakech.
Overnight at Luxury Desert Camp in Merzouga Sahara
Unlike shorter tours, this 10 days morocco itinerary gives you a full day to explore the desert culture, not just the sand.
The Music: We visit Khamlia Village, home to the Gnawa people. Descendants of enslaved people from Sudan and Mali, they will perform their spiritual trance music for you. It is a powerful connection to the African roots of Morocco.
The Nomads: We drive off-road into the “Black Desert” (volcanic hamada) to visit a real nomadic family. You will sit in their tent, share tea, and learn how they survive the harsh climate with their herds of goats and camels.
The Donkey Parking: We visit the market town of Rissani. If it is a market day (Tue/Thu/Sun), we will see the famous “Donkey Parking Lot,” a bustling hub where farmers park their animals while trading dates, spices, and livestock.
The Afternoon: The rest of the day is yours. You can try sandboarding down the dunes, rent a Quad Bike (ATV) for an adrenaline rush, or simply relax by the camp pool and read a book in the profound quiet.
Overnight at Hotel/Desert Camp in Merzouga Sahara
This is the longest logistical leg of the 10 days tour from Marrakech to Casablanca, but it is visually spectacular.
The Oasis: We drive north through the Ziz Valley, a massive canyon filled with a continuous river of date palms. The contrast between the lush green valley floor and the red canyon walls is stark.
The Alpine Shift: We cross the Middle Atlas Mountains. The landscape changes to alpine forests. We stop in Midelt for lunch, a town famous for its apples.
The Monkeys: Near Azrou, we stop in the Cedar Forest. This ancient forest is home to the Barbary Macaque, a friendly, endangered monkey species. You can see them playing in the trees by the roadside.
The Swiss Town: We pass through Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland.” Built by the French in the 1930s, it features alpine chalets, red-tiled roofs, and manicured parks—a shock to the system after the desert.
Arrival: We reach Fes in the evening and drop you at your historic Riad in the Medina.
Overnight at Riad/Hotel in Fes
Fes is the soul of Morocco. Today, you explore it with a local expert.
The Gates: We start at the Royal Palace with its golden brass doors and the Jewish Quarter (Mellah).
The University: We enter the Medina to see Al-Qarawiyyin University. Founded in 859 AD by a woman, Fatima al-Fihri, it is the oldest continually operating university in the world.
The Tanneries: We visit the iconic Chouara Tannery. You will look down from a terrace onto the stone vats where men stomp hides in dyes of saffron, indigo, and poppy. The smell is strong (ammonia from pigeon droppings is used to soften the leather), but the sight is unforgettable.
The Artisans: Fes is the capital of handicrafts. You will see weavers making cactus silk, coppersmiths hammering pots in Seffarine Square, and potters creating the intricate zellige mosaics.
Overnight at Riad/Hotel in Fes
The Romans: We leave Fes and stop at Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This was the capital of the Roman kingdom of Mauretania. You will walk among the ruins, seeing the Triumphal Arch and the stunningly preserved floor mosaics, such as the “Abduction of Hylas” and “Diana Bathing.”
The Rif Mountains: We drive north into the Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen.
The Blue Pearl: Arrival in the Blue City. Founded in 1471, the city was painted blue (theories range from Jewish refugees symbolizing the sky to mosquito repellent). It is calm, artistic, and incredibly photogenic.
The Sunset: We recommend a short hike to the Spanish Mosque on the hill for a sunset view over the entire blue town.
Overnight at Riad/Hotel in Chefchaouen
The Morning: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast in the blue streets.
Rabat: We drive to the political capital, Rabat. It is clean, white, and orderly. We visit the Hassan Tower (an unfinished 12th-century minaret) and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of modern Moroccan craftsmanship where the kings are buried. We also walk through the Kasbah of the Udayas, a fortress with blue and white streets overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Casablanca: We continue down the coast to Casablanca for your final night.
Overnight at Riad/Hotel in Casablanca
The Mosque: No 10 Days Desert tour from Marrakech to Casablanca is complete without visiting the Hassan II Mosque. It is one of the few mosques open to non-Muslims. Built on a promontory over the ocean, it features a 210-meter minaret (with a laser pointing to Mecca), a heated floor, and a retractable roof. It can hold 105,000 worshippers.
The Departure: Depending on your flight time, we will transfer you to Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), marking the end of your 10 day trip from Marrakech to Casablanca.
At Visit Maghreb Travel Agency, we understand that every traveler is unique. That is why we designed this Morocco itinerary 10 days to showcase the absolute best of Morocco’s culture, landscapes, and local life. We know that sometimes you might wish for an extra day in the desert or a slower morning in the mountains. No worries! We offer full flexibility to tailor the trip according to your preferences and needs. Whether you want to add a stop at a hidden oasis, spend more time photographing the blue streets of Chefchaouen, or adjust the pace of the itinerary, we are happy to customize the tour to suit your style. Our team is available 24/7 to answer questions, suggest options, and help you build your dream journey. And remember: the more people in your group, the lower the cost per person, as transportation costs are shared. Feel free to reach out anytime—we are here to make your Moroccan experience as perfect for you as possible.
We have handpicked the most atmospheric and comfortable properties for your 6 days tour from Marrakech to Fes. Both ensure safety, cleanliness, and authentic Moroccan hospitality.
|
Night
|
Location
|
Standard Option
|
Luxury Option
|
| Night 1 and 2 | Marrakech | Clean, comfortable rooms. (e.g., Riad Nesma,..) or similar | La Mamounia or Royal Mansour or similar |
| Night 3 | Dades Valley | Clean, comfortable rooms. (e.g., Hotel Babylon Dades,…) or similar |
Chez Pierre or Xaluca Dades or similar |
| Night 4 and 5 | Merzouga Desert (Erg Chebbi) | Private tent, ensuite bathroom, hot shower (e.g Les Roches Luxury Desert Camp) or similar | Private tent, ensuite bathroom, hot shower (e.g Les Roches Luxury Desert Camp) or similar |
| Night 6 and 7 | Fes | Riad Ahlam or Riad Ghita or similar |
Palais Amani or Riad Fes or similar |
| Night 8 | Chefchaouen | Dar Echchaouen / Riad Hicham or similar |
Riad Cherifa / Lina Ryad & Spa |
| Night 9 | Casablanca | Clean, comfortable rooms. (e.g., Hotel Kenzi Basma,..) or similar | Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche or similar |
The price of a 10 day private Morocco tour price 2026 Marrakech to Casablanca depends on the season and the size of your group. We do not do “shared” stranger tours; the vehicle is exclusively yours.
Booking your 10 Day Trip from Marrakech to Casablanca with Visit Maghreb is simple and secure.
Inquiry: Use our contact form to send your dates and number of travelers.
Customization: We will reply within 24 hours. If you want to add a day for hiking or swap a hotel, we adjust the plan.
Deposit: A 30% deposit is required to secure the vehicle and hotel bookings (via Credit Card or Bank Transfer).
Confirmation: You receive a detailed travel voucher and itinerary.
Arrival: The remaining balance is payable upon arrival in Marrakech (Cash in EUR/USD/MAD or Credit Card).
Want to add more spice to your Marrakech Desert Tour 10 Days? We can arrange these add-ons:
Marrakech Hot Air Balloon: Float over the Atlas Mountains at sunrise. Includes a Berber breakfast in a tent. (Approx. €150-200 pp).
Merzouga Quad Biking: Rent a high-power ATV to tear across the dunes for an hour. A thrill-seeker’s favorite. (Approx. €40-50 pp).
Fes Cooking Class: Go to the market with a local chef, buy ingredients, and learn to cook a Chicken Lemon Tagine. Eat your creation for lunch. (Approx. €40-60 pp).
Hammam & Spa: Experience the traditional Moroccan scrub. We can book you into a luxury Hammam in Marrakech or Fes for a deep clean and massage.
We were hesitant about the long drive to the desert, but Visit Maghreb travel agency made it seamless. Our driver, Omar, was a gem—he knew every photo spot and the best places for coffee. The night in the luxury camp in Merzouga was magical; I’ve never seen stars like that. This 10-day tour was the perfect mix of adventure and culture.
I booked the 10-day itinerary for my family. The kids loved the monkeys in the Cedar Forest and the camel ride. I appreciated the safety and the quality of the Riads—Riad Fes was stunning. Visit Maghreb travel agency handled everything professionally. If you are thinking about it, just book it.
To ensure your 10 days in Morocco from Marrakech are smooth, here is the insider advice other blogs might miss.
The “Onion” Packing Strategy Morocco is a land of extremes. In the same 10 days morocco itinerary, you might see snow in the Atlas and 30°C heat in the desert.
Pack layers: A t-shirt, a fleece, and a light windbreaker.
The Magic Scarf: For women, a large lightweight scarf is essential. It covers shoulders for mosques, protects hair from desert wind, and adds warmth on cool nights.
Shoes: Leave the heels at home. The medinas are paved with uneven cobblestones. Bring broken-in walking shoes or sturdy sneakers.
Money & Tipping
Cash is King: While luxury hotels take cards, you need Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) for souks and tips. Use ATMs in the cities (Al Barid Bank or Attijariwafa Bank are reliable).
Tipping Etiquette: It is expected.
Driver: 100-200 MAD per day (for the whole group).
City Guides: 100-150 MAD per tour.
Porters: 20 MAD per bag.
Restaurants: 10% of the bill.
Cultural Etiquette
Photography: Always ask before taking a photo of a person (“Mumkin sura?”). In Jemaa el-Fnaa, snake charmers expect payment for photos.
Public Affection: Morocco is conservative. Avoid public displays of affection (kissing) in the streets. Holding hands is generally fine for married couples.
Fridays: Friday is the holy day. Some shops in the souks may close from 12 PM to 3 PM for prayer.
Yes, 10 days in Morocco from Marrakech is the “sweet spot.” It allows you to complete the “Grand Loop” (South and North) without rushing. You get 2 nights in the desert and 2 nights in Fes, which is crucial for relaxation.
Absolutely. Morocco is one of the most politically stable countries in Africa and a major tourist destination. The route for this 10 Day Trip from Marrakech to Casablanca follows major national roads and tourist zones.
In our Luxury Desert Camp option, you have a private ensuite bathroom inside your tent. This includes a flushing toilet, a sink, and a hot shower. You do not need to walk outside or share facilities.
Yes. This is a private tour. If you want to skip Casablanca to spend an extra day in the Atlas Mountains, or end the tour in Fes instead of Casablanca, Visit Maghreb travel agency can tailor the route to your flights.
Morocco is a big country. Day 3 (Marrakech to Dades) and Day 6 (Merzouga to Fes) involve 6-7 hours of travel. However, the scenery is stunning, and the private vehicle allows for frequent stops.
Yes. We provide car seats upon request. Children love the animals (camels, monkeys, donkeys) and the “sandbox” of the dunes. The private nature of the tour means we can stop whenever the kids need a break.
Travelers from the US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, and New Zealand generally do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days. Always check the latest 2026 regulations for your specific passport.
We recommend drinking bottled water, which is cheap and widely available. You can use tap water for brushing your teeth in major cities, but for drinking, stick to “Sidi Ali” or “Ain Atlas” bottles to avoid any stomach upset.
In the daytime, loose, breathable clothing. At night, the desert gets cold (especially in winter), so bring a warm fleece or jacket. A scarf is useful for protecting your face from sand if it gets windy.
The price varies based on the number of people in your group (sharing the cost of the car/driver), the season (high vs low), and the level of hotels you choose (Standard vs Luxury). Contact us for an exact quote for your dates.
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