8D7N Casablanca – Imperial Cities + Sahara Desert

At A Glance

Morocco: A Journey Through Timeless Landscapes and Cultures

Morocco, a land of striking contrasts, captivates with its timeless beauty and cultural richness. From the vast expanses of the Sahara Desert to the majestic peaks of the Atlas Mountains, every landscape tells a unique story. The golden dunes of Merzouga merge with the deep blue sky, offering a breathtaking spectacle, especially at sunset, when the light sets the sand ablaze with vibrant shades of orange and red.

The imperial cities of Marrakech and Fez reveal architectural splendor, where opulent palaces, lush gardens, and bustling souks transport you to another era. In Marrakech, the Koutoubia Mosque and Bahia Palace stand as symbols of the city’s grandeur, while Fez, with its ancient medersas and the vibrant medina, showcases the spiritual heart of Morocco. The journey through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the dramatic Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, offers panoramic views that will leave you in awe.

Ouarzazate, the gateway to the Sahara, enchants with the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, a majestic fortified village that seems to rise from the desert itself. Continuing to the Todra Gorges, towering cliffs create a natural marvel, while the lush valleys of Kelaa M’gouna, famed for its roses, provide a softer, fragrant contrast.

The coastal city of Tangier, with its stunning views from Cap Spartel and the mystical Hercules Caves, connects you to the powerful Atlantic, offering yet another facet of Morocco’s diverse beauty. Each step in Morocco is a journey through time and nature, where vibrant cultures and landscapes blend to create an unforgettable experience.

Destination Highlights

  • Day 01: Arrival in Casablanca
    – Arrival at Casablanca Mohamed V Airport.
    – Transfer to your hotel for check-in.
    – Dinner and overnight in Casablanca.
  • Day 02: Casablanca – Marrakech
    – Breakfast at the hotel.
    – Transfer to Marrakech.
    – Optional lunch at a local restaurant.
    – In the afternoon, explore the Red City. Highlights include Koutoubia Mosque (outside), Bahia Palace, Djemaa el Fna square, Souks & Medina.
    – Dinner and overnight in Marrakech.
  • Day 03: Marrakech – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate
    – Breakfast at the hotel.
    – Departure to Ouarzazate, crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass (2260m), with photo stops at panoramic viewpoints.
    – Visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah.
    – Optional lunch at a local restaurant.
    – Continue to Ouarzazate for check-in, dinner, and overnight.
  • Day 04: Ouarzazate – Todra – Tinghir – Erfoud – Merzouga
    – Breakfast at the hotel.
    – Travel to Tinghir and explore the stunning Todra Gorges.
    – Optional lunch at a local restaurant.
    – Pass through Kelaa M’gouna and the Valley of Roses to see locally made cosmetic products.
    – Arrival in Erfoud, then transfer to Merzouga for check-in, dinner, and overnight.
  • Day 05: Merzouga – Erfoud – Midelt – Ifrane – Fez
    – Breakfast at the hotel.
    – Departure towards Midelt, crossing the Atlas Mountains.
    – Optional lunch at a local restaurant.
    – Visit Ifrane, often called the “little Switzerland of Africa.”
    – Arrival in Fez for dinner and overnight.
  • Day 06: Fez – Chefchaouen – Tangier
    – Breakfast at the hotel.
    – Half-day tour of Fez, including the medersas (Bouanania), Nejjarine Fountain, and Karaouiyine Mosque.
    – Optional lunch at a local restaurant.
    – Departure to Chefchaouen for an orientation tour of the blue city.
    – Continue to Tangier for check-in, dinner, and overnight.
  • Day 07: Tangier – Casablanca
    – Breakfast at the hotel.
    – Morning orientation tour of Tangier, including Cap Spartel and Hercules Caves.
    – Optional lunch at a local restaurant.
    – Departure to Casablanca with a short stop at Hassan II Mosque and La Corniche.
    – Dinner and overnight in Casablanca.
  • Day 08: Departure from Casablanca
    – Breakfast at the hotel.
    – Transfer to Casablanca Mohamed V Airport for your departure flight.

 

Additional Information

  • Weather & Best Time to Travel
    – Best Season: March to May and September to October, with warm days (25-35°C) and cooler nights (13-17°C).
    – Shoulder Season: Mid-November to mid-February, with daytime temperatures between 15-25°C, but chilly nights.
    – Hot Season: Mid-June to August, with temperatures in Marrakech and the south reaching up to 45°C, though it is cooler in the mountains and along the coast.

 

  • What to Pack
    – Layered clothing for temperature fluctuations.
    – Long-sleeved shirts for sun protection.
    – Fleece/jumper for cooler evenings.
    – Comfortable walking shoes/boots.
    – Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunblock.
    – Women should bring a scarf for visits to religious sites.
    – Plug adapter for 127/220V, 50Hz.

 

  • Religion & Etiquette
    Morocco is a country of tolerance where Jews, Christians, and Muslims coexist peacefully, but the official religion is Islam.

 

  • Money & Currency
    – Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
    – ATMs: Available in most towns.
    – Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted, even in some souks.

 

  • Inclusions
    – Airport/hotel transfers with a Rida representative.
    – 7 nights’ accommodation with half-board (7 breakfasts & 7 dinners).
    – Transportation with a driver for the entire tour.
    – Local guides in Marrakech, Fez, Ait Benhaddou, and Chefchaouen.
    – Entrance fees to monuments (Bahia Palace and Bouanania).
    – All taxes and services.

 

  • Exclusions
    – Lunches.
    – Water at the hotels.
    – 4×4 & camel rides in Merzouga.
    – Drinks at hotels and restaurants.
    – Porterage of luggage at the airport and hotels.
    – Tips for guides, drivers, and 4×4 drivers.
    – Personal expenses.
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