16 Day Morocco Tour| Desert, Cities & Coast

Welcome to Morocco!

Upon arrival into Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport, look out for the friendly face of your chauffeur waiting for you in the arrivals hall. The driver will wait for you with a sign with the name of our agency Tiziri Travel Morocco Tours.

After assisting you with your luggage, your private transfer will drive you to your hotel in the heart of the city. Don’t forget to look out the window and be awed by this majestic city, one of the world’s longest continuously inhabited places.

Once you’ve checked into the hotel, feel free to enjoy the rest of the evening at your own pace and leisure.

Overnight at the Hotel in Casablanca.

Dive into the Mosques and Mausoleums of Casablanca

After breakfast, your driver will pick you up from your hotel at 08:45 AM to begin a captivating exploration of Casablanca’s mosques, mausoleums, and cultural landmarks.

Your morning starts with a visit to the iconic Hassan II Mosque—Africa’s largest and one of the most impressive religious monuments in the world. Set majestically on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, its soaring 210-meter minaret dominates the skyline and offers a striking example of modern Moroccan architecture blended with traditional craftsmanship.

Following this awe-inspiring visit, continue your discovery through the vibrant city of Casablanca, the economic heartbeat of Morocco. Explore significant sites such as United Nations Place and Mohammed V Square, both central to the city’s colonial heritage. Stroll through the bustling Central Market and wander the narrow streets of the Habbous Quarter, known for its Andalusian-style arcades and artisan shops.

You will also have the opportunity to admire the elegant façade of the Mehkama (court) and the stained-glass beauty of the Cathedral Notre Dame de Lourdes. Your drive will then take you through the upscale residential district of Anfa, before concluding along the scenic Ain Diab Corniche, a popular waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and beachside resorts.

This immersive day in Casablanca offers a rich blend of history, architecture, and modern city life—an ideal introduction to Morocco’s most cosmopolitan city.

later this afternoon, continue the journey to Rabat.

Overnight at the Hotel / Riad in Rabat

Rabat – Asilah – Tangier.

Visit the capital of Morocco Rabat

Set off for the city of Rabat, the capital of Morocco, the Atlantic coastline and the elegant city filled with impressive landmarks. It is a captivating blend of historical heritage and modern vibrancy. A city tour of Rabat is an enriching experience, offering glimpses into its rich past and contemporary life.

First, we’ll head to the Chellah, a historic necropolis surrounded by thick fortified walls. Chellah is a historical site that offers a mix of Roman ruins and medieval Islamic architecture, set within lush gardens and surrounded by ancient walls. It’s a serene place that provides insight into the layers of history that have shaped the region.

Our tour then leads us to the Hassan Tower. It is an iconic landmark, a partially completed minaret of what was intended to be the world’s largest mosque. The tower and its surrounding ruins provide insight into the grandeur of 12th-century architecture.

Besides the Hassan Tower you will have the optional visit of the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a marble masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, which houses the tombs of Moroccan kings and princes.

We’ll also visit a fascinating area called Oudaya Kasbah. It is an  ancient fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The Kasbah is known for its blue-and-white painted buildings, narrow winding streets, and stunning gardens.

Later this afternoon, continue the journey to Tangier via Asilah.

Asilah is a small beatiful and paceful city. Its a best place to relax and spend the time by the beach.

Overnight at the Hotel / Riad in Tangier.

Tangier – Tetouan – Chefchaouen.

Dive into the Moroccan northern city Tangier.

After breakfast at your Hotel, you will meet your driver to start exploring Tanger and discover the culture of the Moroccan northern city. The visit allows you to visit:

Cape Spartel: 

Declared a Nature Reserve, the cape boasts a lighthouse dating from the mid-nineteenth century, built by the architect François Léonce Reynad, who was inspired by the designs of mosques. The lighthouse reaches a height of 30 metres and has a beacon that can be seen up to 23 nautical miles away.

The caves of Hercules:

A trip to the Hercules caves is a must, since you will be amazed by the stories of myths and heroes. The caves are named after Hercules because, as legend has it, the hero (Heracles in Greek mythology and Hercules in Roman) rested in them after separating the land to create the Strait of Gibraltar and placing a pillar on each continent. Inside the cave you can observe how they were once used as a quarry to extract stone, which has formed an unusual sgraffito effect, while watching the crashing waves.

Also you can visit the medina and the souk and enjoy a drink at the Cafe Hafa which is comprising several terraces with magnificent views of the Ocean.

Continue the tour toward Tetouan to Chefchaouen.

Tetouan is known for its unique blend of Spanish and Moorish architecture, reflecting its history as a former Spanish protectorate and its location within the historic region of the Rif Mountains.

Tetouan has a rich cultural heritage, with its historic Medina (old town) being a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. The Medina features narrow winding streets, traditional Andalusian-style houses, and beautiful tilework, showcasing the city’s Moorish influence.

In addition to its historic significance, Tetouan is also an important economic and cultural center in northern Morocco. The city is known for its handicrafts, particularly its intricate woodwork, leather goods, and woven textiles.

You will have free time to have lunch then on the afternoon continue to the blue city Chefchaouen.

Overnight at the Hotel in Chefchaouen.

Chefchaouen- Fes

Self guided walking tour the whole morning in Chefchaouen.

Discover the Charming Whitewashed Streets of Chefchaouen

Spend the morning exploring the picturesque streets of Chefchaouen. This exquisite city nestled in a gentle valley in the Rif Mountains is characterized by whitewashed buildings detailed in a myriad of blue shades.

During your wanderings along cobblestone alleys and stairways painted white, you will encounter weaving studios and leather workshops where skilled artisans carry on their crafting traditions. Discover the red walls of the kasbah and a medieval fortress in the peaceful square of Outa el Hamman. Look out for the Great Mosque’s octagonal minaret that rises over the rooftops.

After lunch, the journey continues to Fez.

Fes – Fes City Tour with local guide.

Start the tour with local guide at 09:30 AM

Delve into the Rich History of Fes with local guide

Head out on an exploration of Fez, Morocco’s oldest city. You will be guided to important historical sights, such as the gate of the Royal Palace and the old Jewish Quarter, which is known as the “Mellah.” Dating from the 14th century, it is the oldest in Morocco.

The continue the visit to the UNESCO-listed Fes el-Bali (Old Fes). This ancient medina is one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas. Certainly, It is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets filled with bustling souks, traditional workshops, and historical sites.

Our knowledgeable local guide will lead you through the medina, starting with the Bab Bou Jeloud, or the Blue Gate, a stunning example of Moroccan architecture.

Delve deeper into the medina where you’ll visit the Al Quaraouiyine University. Founded in 859 AD, it is the oldest continuously operating university in the world.

Besides, you’ll find the Al-Attarine Madrasa, a masterpiece of Marinid architecture, adorned with intricate tilework and wood carvings. The Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts offers insights into traditional Moroccan carpentry and craftsmanship.

Moreover, your exploration continues with a visit to the Chouara Tannery, one of the oldest tanneries in the world. From a vantage point, you can observe the traditional process of leather dyeing in large stone vats. It is a practice that has remained unchanged for centuries. The vibrant colors and unique smells create an unforgettable sensory experience.

Later in the evening, you will have the chance to visit an atmospheric tile and pottery cooperative to learn how the emblematic tiles of Morocco are made.

Overnight at the Hotel / Riad in Fes.

Fes – Day Trip to Meknes and Volubilis – Fes.

After breakfast in the morning at 08:00 AM we head to Meknes and Volubilis.

The journey today begins with a tour of the walls of Meknes with monumental gates dating from the seventeenth century Berdaïne Bab, Bab Khemis. Continue exploring the city by the stables (Rua), attics (HERI), and Stud. Stop at the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the only mosque that non-Muslims could visit in Morocco for a long time. Exit through the famous Bab Mansour El on the vast square Hedim. On the other side of the square, the Museum of Moroccan Art “Dar Jamai” offers a wide variety of handicrafts.

El Hedim Square “the square of demolition”) is a famous square in Meknes, Morocco. The square was built in the years 1672-1674 after the Sultan of Morocco, Moulay Ismail, demolished half of the Old city of Meknes for his palace and the square.

Then continue the trip to Volubilis.

Fes – Ifrane – Ceder Forest – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Sahara Desert.

Travel Along the Stunning Atlas Mountain Range

After breakfast, you will leave Fes travelling towards Merzouga via Midelt and the Ziz valley. Today you will travel via the Ifrane city, a beautiful mountain village, named the Switzerland of Morocco.

During this journey you’ll experience glimpses of the Middle Atlas and Higher Atlas mountains and passing by many Berber villages in the middle of the famous cedar forest – the largest one in Morocco – where you will have the opportunity to see the Barbary apes.

After that, your journey continues to Midelt along the magnificent hills and mountains of the Atlas. After lunch in Midelt, you’ll be travelling through the fascinating Tiz Ntalghamt pass and the spectacular Ziz Gorge, taking in views of the High Atlas plateau, seeing how the scenery changes to reveal hints of the desert as you approach the province of the south-east Errachidia city.

Afterwards, you’ll travel along the fantastic Ziz Valley, stopping for panoramic views along the way to Erfoud and Rissani.

Arriving in the village of Merzouga in the afternoon where you’ll take camel ride in the dunes of Sahara Desert of Merzouga to reach the camp where you will have the night.

Overnight at the camp inside Sahara Desert Dunes.

Wake up to a magical sunrise over the dunes. Visit Khamlia Village, famous for Gnawa music, and explore nearby fossil sites and oasis towns. Additionally, ride a 4×4 across the desert to discover hidden landscapes and nomadic communities. Thus, spend another night in the desert under the starry sky, deepening your 16-Day Morocco Tour adventure.

Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley.

Today you will have to wake up very early in the morning to see what will may be the best sunrise of your life. You will set over the Sand Dunes of Sahara of Erg Chebbi to watch wonderful sunrise. After watching the sunrise you will go down to the Camp for breakfast. Then you’ll peacefully camel-trek back to the village of Merzouga. While enjoying morning camel ride you couldn’t fail to appreciate the unique beauty of the spectacular Erg Chebbi sand dunes – changing with the light as the day progresses.

Once you arrive the village of Merzouga, you will meet the driver again to continue the tour to Dades. You will have optional stop in  Rissani to visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali chref, the founder of the Alaouit dynasty, and then you will continue to Arfoud to visit the fossilized marble factory before continuing to the Todra valley, where you will have lunch. Once in Todra you can highlight a half-hour walk to see the gorges calmly and you will be guided through the palm grove and the Jewish quarter. Todra gorges is the highest, narrowest gorges in Morocco. The Todra River has formed a gorge of enormous vertical walls of great beauty; it is a climber’s paradise and a unique place.

In the evening we will drive through the Dades Valley, where you’ll see the majestic sand castles and the amazing rock formations known as “monkey toes”. Overnight accommodation will be in a fancy guest house overlooking the Dades Valley.

Night in Dades

Dades Valley- Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Hadou – Marrakech.

After breakfast in your accommodation, you will start travelling through the Dades Valley towards Ouarzazate and then to Marrakech. The road through Dades Valley is called the way of the thousand Kasbahs – providing numerous opportunities to take some of your best photographic shots of the trip.

You will stop at Kalaat M’Gouna -the centre of rose’s valley-, where you will have the option to visit the cooperative for the roses, to purchase the rosewater, which will make your linen smell good a long time after your trip is over.

Continue to Marrakech via the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah. It is the famous fortified village and It is one of the most well-preserved examples of traditional Moroccan earthen architecture and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.

Ait Ben Haddou has been a setting for numerous films and television shows, particularly in the fantasy and historical genres. Its iconic, ancient look has made it a popular location for filming, with famous appearances in movies such as Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy, Babel, and the Game of Thrones series.

Your journey will continue through the majestic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260 m) over the High Atlas Mountains, where you will have the opportunity to explore the process of producing the Argan oil- existing only in morocco – by Berber women in their cooperative, before arriving at your overnight accommodation in Marrakech.

Night in Marrakech

Marrakech City Tour with local guide.

This morning, you will enjoy a privately guided tour of Marrakech led by an expert English-speaking local guide. At 09:30 AM, meet your guide and begin your immersive exploration of the city’s historical and cultural heart. Your first stop is the Koutoubia Mosque, an iconic landmark of Marrakech known for its majestic 12th-century minaret, which towers gracefully above the medina skyline. Although non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, the exterior alone offers an inspiring introduction to traditional Almohad architecture.

Continue to the splendid Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship built in the late 19th century. As you wander through its mosaic-tiled courtyards, lush gardens, and intricately carved wooden ceilings, your guide will share stories of the palace’s past and the lives of those who once lived there.

Next, dive into the sensory-rich world of the souks, where narrow alleyways brim with vibrant textiles, spices, lanterns, and hand-crafted wares. Let the sounds, scents, and colors of the old Medina guide you deeper into Marrakech’s cultural fabric. You’ll also have the chance to stroll through the smell streets, famous for their aromatic herbs and natural products, and feel the timeless rhythm of life in the historic medina.

Your guided tour continues to the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a beautifully preserved Islamic college dating back to the 14th century. Admire the elaborate stucco work, cedar wood carvings, and peaceful courtyards of one of the largest theological colleges in North Africa.

As the morning concludes, you can optionaly visit  “Le Jardin Secret”(Not included with the guide), a serene oasis hidden within the medina. This beautifully restored palace garden blends traditional Islamic design with exotic flora and is a peaceful place to reflect on the morning’s discoveries. The guided portion of the tour ends here.

You will then have 1 hour and 30 minutes for lunch at your leisure. Your guide or driver can recommend local restaurants offering authentic Moroccan cuisine.

In the afternoon, you have the optional opportunity to visit the famous Majorelle Garden, a striking botanical haven created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent. Known for its cobalt blue accents, exotic plants, and tranquil atmosphere, the garden is a favorite for travelers seeking beauty and calm. Please note: to visit Majorelle Garden, advance online ticket reservations are required, and can be made at https://tickets.jardinmajorelle.com.

Overnight at the Hotel / Riad in Marrakech.

Marrakech – Marrakech Free Day.

A free day in Marrakech offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and unique experiences of the city.

Explore the Medina by wandering through the narrow, winding streets of the old town. You can visit the bustling souks (markets) to see a wide array of traditional Moroccan goods such as spices, textiles, and pottery.

Have your lunch at a Traditional Moroccan Restaurant. Try some local dishes like tagine, couscous, or pastilla. Le Tobsil and Al Fassia are popular options, or you can find many delightful places around Jemaa el-Fnaa square.

Walk through Jemaa el-Fnaa Square where you’ll find street performers, snake charmers, and food stalls. It’s an excellent place to soak up the local atmosphere.

At night enjoy dinner with a view of the city. Places like Le Foundouk or Nomad offer great Moroccan cuisine and excellent views of the cityscape. The medina transforms in the evening with lights and a different ambiance. It’s a great time to explore more of the souks and perhaps pick up some souvenirs.

Other optional activities to do during your free day in Marrakech: 

There is so many extra things and activities to enjoy in Marrakech like Hot Air Ballooning, Cooking classes, Hammam, Massage, and Day Trips from Marrakech.

Overnight at the Hotel / Riad in Marrakech

Marrakech – Essaouira.

After breakfast you will head down to Essaouira. On the way to Essaouira you can ejoy the amazing of argan trees as well as you can stop to see argan forest and cooperative of argan oil if you would like that.

Exploring Essaouira is a delightful experience with its unique blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty.

Visit the Medina of Essaouira which is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town. It is a maze of narrow streets, bustling markets (souks), and traditional Moroccan architecture. Don’t miss the Skala de la Ville, the historic city walls offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Head down to the Port of Essaouira. It is a lively area where local fishermen bring in their daily catch. It’s a great spot for photography and to witness local life.

Continue to the sandy beach beach where you can relax, take a camel ride, or even try some water sports like wind and kite surfing.

At the lucnh time enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants overlooking the ocean, or try traditional Moroccan dishes in the medina’s cafes and eateries.

Overnight at the Hotel / Riad in Essaouira.

Essaouira –  El Jadida – Casablanca.

Departure for El Jadida ex “Mazagan”, an old Portuguese city, with beautiful ramparts and bastions. The visit will include the port, the ramparts, the Portuguese cistern, and the bastions offering a superb view of the city.

El Jadida, originally called Mazagan, is a Moroccan city located on the Atlantic coast about 100 kilometers from Casablanca. The city is not huge. The trip allows you to discover El Jadida and enjoy the beach and the calm of this charming little town. Take the time to stroll through the narrow streets of the small Portuguese city and explore its ramparts. Do not miss the Portuguese cistern, underground water supply; built during the construction of the Portuguese citadel in the early sixteenth century. Enjoy beautiful views of the city skyline and the ocean. Observe the fishermen who go to sea in small boats like those of Essaouira. And relax by the sea and enjoy the quite beach. As for most coastal cities of Morocco, it is possible to eat many varieties of fish, freshly caught or buy fresh fish for grilling. Then transfer to Casablanca.

Overnight at the hotel in Casablanca.

Casablanca – Casablanca International Airport

Goodbye, Morocco!

All good things must come to an end but we hope you have enjoyed your time exploring the very best that this region of Northern Africa has to offer. The rich and unique history, its magnificent natural beauty and the charming people that makes Morocco the country that it is.

At an arranged time you will be transferred from your hotel to Casablanca International Airport for your international flight back home.

We hope you have had a memorable trip and wish you pleasant onward travels!