★★★★★
Tripadvisor
Sahara experience
“Fantastic experience sleeping under the stars! Enjoyed the peacefulness of the Sahara and listening to great stories from the upbringings in the desert.”
13-Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca
Casablanca
Price
$790.00
Overview
The 13-Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca offers a relaxed way to discover Morocco's imperial cities, mountain landscapes, ancient kasbahs, and the Sahara Desert. If you're looking for more options, explore our Morocco Tours from Casablanca to find other private itineraries and different trip lengths. Starting in Casablanca, this private journey takes you through northern Morocco, the historic cities of Fes and Meknes, the blue streets of Chefchaouen, and the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga.
Along the way, you'll have time to experience Morocco beyond the main sights, from exploring the ancient medina of Fes and the Roman ruins of Volubilis to crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains and visiting local communities in the desert.
The Sahara is one of the highlights of the trip. In Merzouga, you'll explore the surrounding desert, meet a nomadic family, visit Khamlia to experience Gnawa music, and enjoy a camel ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes before spending the night at a desert camp.
The adventure continues through the Dades Valley, Todra Gorge, Ouarzazate, Ait Ben Haddou, and the High Atlas Mountains before reaching Marrakech. With private transportation and a flexible itinerary, the route can be adjusted around your travel dates, interests, and preferred pace.
13-Day Morocco Tour – Pricing
The price depends on your travel dates, group size, accommodation category, and the type of desert camp you choose. We can offer a personalised quotation based on your preferred travel style and services.
From $790 per person
Contact us with your dates and number of travellers, and we'll prepare a quotation for your trip.
Why Choose a Private Morocco Journey?
A private trip gives you more freedom than a fixed group itinerary. You can take your time at places that interest you, stop for photographs, discuss adjustments with your driver, and enjoy a more personal experience throughout Morocco.
Flexibility – Adjust the pace and discuss reasonable itinerary changes.
Comfort – Travel in a private air-conditioned vehicle with space for your luggage.
Local Knowledge – Your driver and local guides can share practical knowledge about the places you visit.
Personal Experience – Spend more time experiencing Morocco rather than following a rigid group schedule.
Highlights of the route
- Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
- Hassan Tower and Oudaya Kasbah in Rabat
- Chefchaouen, Morocco's famous Blue City
- Fes Medina with a local guide
- Roman ruins of Volubilis
- Meknes and its historic monuments
- Middle Atlas Mountains
- Ziz Valley and the Tafilalt region
- Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga
- Camel ride and sunset in the Sahara
- Visit to a nomadic family
- Gnawa music in Khamlia
- Overnight desert camp
- Todra Gorge and Dades Valley
- Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou
- High Atlas Mountains
- Marrakech Medina and major historic sights
What to Know Before You Go
This itinerary covers a large part of Morocco, so some travel days involve several hours on the road. The route is designed to balance driving with sightseeing, local experiences, and time to explore the main destinations.
Accommodation includes hotels or riads during the excursion as well as a desert camp in Merzouga. The exact room and camp category can be discussed when you book.
The Sahara experience includes time in the Erg Chebbi dunes, a camel adventure to the desert camp, and an evening beneath the stars. If you prefer not to ride a camel, a 4x4 transfer can be organised instead.
The itinerary is private and can be discussed before your arrival. If you would like more time in Fes, Marrakech, the desert, or another destination, let us know when planning your trip.
Optional activities such as quad biking or buggy rides in Merzouga can also be arranged at an additional cost.
Local Tips for Travelling Through Morocco
Travelling through Morocco is much easier when you know a few local customs and practical tips. Here are some useful things to keep in mind during your journey:
Dress Comfortably and Respect Local Customs
Morocco is a relatively conservative country, especially outside the major tourist areas. Comfortable, modest clothing is recommended when visiting medinas, villages, and religious or traditional sites.
Carry Some Moroccan Dirhams
Cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and larger businesses, but cash is still useful for small shops, local cafés, markets, tips, and purchases in rural areas. ATMs are available in most larger towns and cities.
Take Your Time in the Medinas
Places such as Fes, Chefchaouen, and Marrakech are best explored on foot. The narrow streets can be busy and confusing, so allow yourself time to walk slowly, look around, and enjoy the atmosphere rather than rushing from one attraction to another.
Try local food.
Moroccan cuisine is an important part of the experience. During your journey, try traditional dishes such as tajine, couscous, harira, pastilla, and Moroccan mint tea. If you have dietary requirements, let us know in advance so we can help arrange suitable meals.
Be Prepared for Different Temperatures
Morocco has several different climates. Casablanca and the Atlantic coast can feel mild, while the mountains can be much cooler. The Sahara can be warm during the day and surprisingly cold at night, particularly outside the summer months. Packing layers is therefore a good idea.
Bring Comfortable Shoes
You will have opportunities to walk through historic medinas, kasbahs, mountain areas, and desert landscapes. Comfortable walking shoes are especially useful for exploring places such as Fes Medina, Ait Ben Haddou, and the desert surroundings.
Respect Local Communities
When visiting villages, nomadic communities, or rural areas, a respectful attitude is important. Always ask before taking close-up photographs of people, particularly children.
Keep Your Desert Evening Relaxed
A night in the Sahara is about more than the camel ride. After arriving at the camp, take some time to enjoy the dunes, watch the sunset, have dinner, and experience traditional music around the campfire.
Ask Your Local Guide
One of the advantages of travelling with a local guide is being able to ask questions along the way. Your guide can recommend local foods, explain Moroccan traditions, suggest places for photos, and help you discover experiences that aren't always in guidebooks.
Experience Morocco at Your Own Pace
A private trip through Morocco gives you more freedom to enjoy each destination at your own pace. Instead of simply following a fixed schedule, you can take time to stop for pictures, enjoy a Moroccan tea, explore a local market, or spend a little longer at a place that interests you.
Travelling with a local driver-guide also gives you the opportunity to see a different side of Morocco. Along the way from Casablanca to Marrakech and the Sahara, you can learn about local traditions, Berber culture, Moroccan cuisine, desert life, and the history of the communities you visit.
The excursion also allows you to discover the contrast between Morocco's varied landscapes. From the Atlantic coast and northern cities to the Middle Atlas Mountains, the green valleys around the Ziz Valley, and the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, the panorama varies continually.
For many travellers, the most memorable moments are not always the famous attractions. It can be a quiet sunset in the desert, a conversation with a local family, a traditional meal in a small village, or stopping on the road to enjoy a beautiful mountain view.
With a flexible private itinerary, this Morocco journey from Casablanca can be adapted to your interests, travel dates, and preferred pace, making the experience more personal and relaxed.
What Makes This Morocco Journey Special?
A longer trip through Morocco gives you the chance to experience much more than the country’s famous cities. One day you might be walking through the blue streets of Chefchaouen or exploring the historic medina of Fes, and a few days later you can be surrounded by the quiet landscapes of the Sahara.
What makes this excursion different is the change in scenery along the way. You will travel from the Atlantic coast through historic cities, mountain landscapes, valleys, traditional villages, and finally into the desert around Merzouga. Each region has its own character, architecture, food, and way of life.
The Sahara is naturally one of the most memorable parts of the journey, but the smaller experiences along the road are just as important. Stopping for Moroccan tea, meeting local people, visiting traditional villages, discovering old kasbahs, or simply taking a break to enjoy a mountain view can become some of your favourite moments.
Because this is a private tour, there is also more flexibility during the trip. You can ask your local driver-guide about places to stop, photography opportunities, local restaurants, and interesting sights along the route. The goal is not simply to travel from one destination to another but to experience Morocco at a comfortable pace and discover the country from a more local perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our 13-Day Morocco Tour From Casablanca
What places will I visit during the journey?
The route includes Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, Volubilis, Meknes, Fes, the Middle Atlas Mountains, Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes, Dades Valley, Todra Gorge, Ouarzazate, Ait Ben Haddou, the High Atlas Mountains, and Marrakech.
Is this a private tour?
Yes. The journey is organised as a private trip, giving you more flexibility with the pace, stops, and itinerary.
Is the Sahara Desert included?
Yes. The itinerary includes time in Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes, including the desert camp experience.
Is the camel ride included?
Yes, the camel ride to the desert camp is included according to the package details.
Can I customise the itinerary?
Yes. The route can be discussed before booking and adjusted where practical according to your interests and travel dates.
Can I go to the desert camp without riding a camel?
Yes. A 4x4 transfer can be arranged if you prefer not to ride a camel.
Are meals included?
Here, we need to use your actual 13-day package inclusions, not the generic wording currently on the page.
What’s Included & Excluded
- Pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation
- Experienced English-speaking driver/guide
- Private, comfortable vehicle with A/C
- Car fuel
- Camel ride in the Merzouga Sahara — one camel per person
- 12 nights in private hotel/riad rooms with breakfast included
- Dinner at your Merzouga desert camp
- Dinner at your riad in the Dades Valley
- Lunches
- Dinner in Casablanca, Chefchaouen, Fes, Marrakech, Essaouira, and El Jadida.
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Tips for the guide and camp staff
- Travel Insurance
- Optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca
Upon arrival at Casablanca Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Casablanca. Take some time to relax, enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine, and settle in for your first night in Morocco.
Day 2: Casablanca → Rabat → Chefchaouen
After breakfast at your hotel, we'll visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque before continuing to Rabat for a short visit to the historic Hassan Tower.
We then continue towards Chefchaouen, with a trip of approximately 5 hours. Arriving in the afternoon, you'll have time to explore the charming blue-painted streets and narrow alleys of the famous Blue City, nestled in the Rif Mountains.
Tonight, you'll stay in a traditional riad in Chefchaouen.
Day 3: Chefchaouen → Volubilis → Meknes → Fes
After breakfast at your riad, we'll set off toward Fes, stopping at fascinating historical sites along the way, including the UNESCO-listed Roman ruins of Volubilis. We'll stop for lunch in Meknes before continuing to Fes.
Upon arrival in Fes, we'll check into your accommodation, where you can relax, enjoy dinner, and spend the night.
Day 4: Fes sightseeing tour with a local guide
Start your morning with breakfast at your riad before immersing yourself in the rich traditions of Fez. Start with a visit to Artisan Workshops in the Medina, where master craftsmen skilfully create intricate zellij tiles, elegant traditional pottery, and beautifully handcrafted brassware.
Then, head to the Dar Batha Museum, nestled in a splendid Andalusian-style palace, and explore its outstanding collection of Moroccan art and cultural artefacts. Around midday, you'll have free time to enjoy lunch at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Medina.
In the afternoon, continue exploring the Fez el-Bali Medina with a guided food and souks tour.
Savour local delicacies like pastilla and harira as you wander through the bustling markets of Fes el Bali. Your expert guide will share captivating stories about the city's culinary heritage and vibrant food culture.
Conclude your day with a serene visit to the Jnan Sbil Garden, a peaceful haven where you can unwind with a refreshing mint tea while reflecting on the day's experiences.
Day 5: Fes → Azrou → Midelt → Ziz valley → Merzouga Sahara Desert
Today, after breakfast, we'll leave Fes and begin our adventure toward the Merzouga Sahara Desert. Our route takes us through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains and across scenic mountain landscapes. As we descend into the Ziz Valley, the scenery changes dramatically, with green palm groves contrasting against the surrounding dry landscape.
Driving through the Tafilalt region, you’ll encounter an area steeped in history, once a vital crossroads for West African caravan routes and the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty.
After approximately seven hours of travel, we will arrive in the Merzouga Desert. Here, you’ll check into the charming Hotel Kasbah, where a delicious dinner awaits, and you’ll spend the night immersed in the tranquillity of the desert.
Day 6: Explore the Merzouga Area → Spend an overnight at Merzouga Desert camp
This morning, after breakfast at your hotel, we will embark on an exciting adventure into the heart of the Sahara. Our first stop will be to visit a nomadic family living in the desert, offering a glimpse into their unique way of life. Next, we’ll explore Mefis, a small abandoned village where you can wander through the remnants of French colonial-era lead and mineral mines.
As we continue our adventure, we’ll travel along routes where nomadic families may still reside in traditional tents, providing another opportunity to learn about their rich traditions. We’ll then visit the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes and take in the serene beauty of the surrounding desert landscape. Following a route once used by the legendary Paris-Dakar Rally, we’ll continue through the captivating black desert before concluding this part of our journey.
Our next stop will be a scenic viewpoint that offers a breathtaking panorama of Erg Chebbi. From there, we’ll head to the village of Khamlia, known for its community of dark-skinned inhabitants originally from Sub-Saharan Africa. Here, you’ll enjoy a refreshing cup of tea while listening to a live performance of traditional Gnawa music, a soulful blend of African rhythms and Moroccan heritage.
For lunch, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a meal at a local restaurant in Khamlia, with options such as tajine, Berber pizza, and fresh salads.
In the evening, around 4 PM, you'll meet your camel caravan and set off on a magical one-hour trek through the dunes to your desert camp.
Day 7: Merzouga Desert → Todra Gorges → Dades Valley
After breakfast, a refreshing shower, and enjoying the sunrise at your desert camp, we'll begin our tour west toward the Todra Gorges and Dades Valley.
The excursion takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, depending on stops along the way. Tonight, you'll stay in a
charming Riad in the Dades Valley.
Day 8: Dades valley → Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou → Marrakech
After breakfast at your hotel, we will journey toward Marrakech, stopping to explore some of Morocco’s most fascinating kasbahs and landscapes. Highlights include visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou and the historic Telouet Kasbah.
As we travel, you’ll experience the stunning patchwork of Berber villages in river valleys and marvel at the shifting scenery, transitioning from arid pre-Saharan landscapes to alpine terrain, fertile farmland, and olive groves.
Our route takes us across the majestic High Atlas Mountains, including the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, before gradually descending toward Marrakech. We expect to arrive in the late afternoon, after approximately 7.5 hours of travel, depending on stops along the way.
Day 9: A Full-Day Marrakech City Tour with a Local Guide
After breakfast, put yourself in the vibrant city of Marrakech with a full-day guided tour. Begin your tour with a visit to the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, then explore the historic Saadian Tombs and the beautifully designed Bahia Palace.
Stroll through the Mellah (Jewish Quarter) before savouring a traditional Moroccan lunch.
In the afternoon, visit the enchanting Jardin Majorelle and the intricate Ben Youssef Madrasa. Then, dive into the lively souks of the Medina, where vibrant colours, scents, and sounds fill the air. End your day at the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, soaking up the local culture and dynamic atmosphere. An overnight stay with breakfast will be at a charming riad.
Day 10: Marrakech → Essaouira
After breakfast, depart from Marrakech and travel to the charming coastal town of Essaouira, known for its relaxed atmosphere, historic medina, and beautiful Atlantic coastline.
Upon arrival, explore Essaouira's historic medina and visit the Skala de la Kasbah, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sandy beaches or exploring the narrow streets of this charming coastal town. In the evening, settle into your accommodation in Essaouira, where you’ll unwind and enjoy the cool ocean breeze.
Day 11: Essaouira → El jadida
After breakfast, leave Essaouira and continue to El Jadida, a coastal town with a rich history and a unique blend of Portuguese and Moroccan influences. The drive takes approximately 3 hours, with beautiful views along the Atlantic coastline.
Upon arrival, explore the historic Portuguese city of El Jadida, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its narrow streets and discover its well-preserved Portuguese architecture, including the historic fortress walls and the impressive Portuguese Cistern, a fascinating underground space where sunlight filters through the columns and reflects on the water.
Enjoy some free time for lunch at a seaside restaurant, where you can try fresh seafood while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Afterwards, take a relaxing stroll along the beach or explore more of this charming coastal town.
In the evening, check into your accommodation in El Jadida and enjoy a peaceful night by the sea.
Day 12: El jadida → Casablanca
After breakfast, depart from El Jadida and head to Casablanca, Morocco's bustling economic centre. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, providing a scenic route as you move from the coastal charm of El Jadida to the vibrant energy of Casablanca.
Upon arrival, discover the city's highlights, starting with the Charming Habous Quarter, where French and Moroccan architectural styles combine beautifully. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Corniche, the seaside promenade, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Spend the afternoon wandering through the lively markets or exploring more of Casablanca's modern attractions at your leisure.
Spend the afternoon wandering through Casablanca's markets or exploring more of the city's modern attractions at your leisure. In the evening, return to your hotel or riad for your final night in Morocco.
Day 13: Conclusion of Your 13-Day Tour in Morocco
After breakfast, your unforgettable 13-day adventure through Morocco comes to an end. Reflect on the amazing experiences you've had, from discovering ancient cities and breathtaking landscapes to immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and rich history of this fascinating country.
Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or a final stroll through Casablanca before your airport transfer.
Our team will arrange your transfer to Casablanca airport according to your flight schedule, marking the end of your Moroccan adventure.
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Tripadvisor Reviews
What Travelers Say About Their Sahara Experience
Read selected reviews shared by travelers on Tripadvisor after their Sahara Desert experiences with Desert Experience Glamping, including camel rides, desert camps, quad biking, and Morocco tours.
★★★★★
Tripadvisor
Amazing experience!
“A fantastic experience! The camel ride was magical, and the views of the Sahara Desert at sunset will stay in my heart forever! The dinner was also very delicious. I was impressed with the organization and everything overall.”
★★★★★
Tripadvisor
Dream destination
“It was a wonderful experience, probably the most memorable in Morocco. Everything was organized perfectly. Incredible camel ride through the dunes at sunset, delicious and varied dinner, cozy tent...”
★★★★★
Tripadvisor
Youssef is the best tour guide in the world.
“Youssef is the best tour guide in the world. Honest, reliable, hardworking, kind, and friendly. Youssef is the kindest and most genuine tour guide you are ever likely to meet.”
★★★★★
Tripadvisor
Anytime immediately again
“Highly recommended! The guide Youssef organized everything perfectly from start to finish. It was a fantastically beautiful unforgettable experience in Merzouga. The luxury camp is highly recommended.”
★★★★★
Tripadvisor
Amazing experience
“This was a high point of our trip. With our toddler we were able to enjoy the desert in a safe fun way. We did one 1 hours Quad biking experience which is the best adventure in our life.”
DESERT EXPERIENCE GLAMPING
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