Morocco 12 Days Tour from Casablanca
12-day private tour through Morocco visiting Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fes, the Erg Chebbi dunes (Sahara), Ouarzazate, Ait Ben Haddou and finishing in Marrakech. Private transport, accommodations (11 nights), breakfast daily, some dinners, driver/guide, camel trek in the Sahara, and local guides in Fes and Marrakech are included as described in the source activity.
In Collaboration with Morocco Travel Shara. Updated on February 14, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Morocco Travel Shara, inspired by the tour Morocco 12 Days Tour from Casablanca. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Pickup at Mohammed V International Airport Casablanca
- Guided visits in Fes and Marrakech
- Camel trek and overnight in Erg Chebbi (Merzouga) desert
- Visit Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate
Explore all itineraries in Casablanca.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Casablanca. Pickup at Mohammed V Airport and private transfer to your first hotel in Morocco (itinerary backbone places Marrakech as day 1 location). Evening stroll in Jemaa el-Fnaa (Marrakech) if arrival timing allows.
Arrival & pickup at Casablanca airport
Meet your driver at the arrival exit of Mohammed V International Airport (driver will hold a sign with your name) for private transfer to your first hotel.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep passports and printed or digital voucher accessible for the driver at the airport exit.
- Allow 20–45 minutes for passport control and luggage collection when timing your flight arrival.
- If you need a local SIM or currency, there are kiosks inside the terminal before exiting to the arrivals hall.
Transfer & hotel check-in in Marrakech
Private drive to Marrakech and hotel check-in. Time allocated for rest and freshening up after arrival transfer.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm approximate arrival time with the driver so the hotel can prepare an early/check-in when possible.
- Carry a light layer — coastal and inland temperatures can differ between Casablanca and Marrakech.
- Keep a small day bag with essentials (water, sunscreen, medications) so you don’t need to unpack immediately.
Evening: Jemaa el-Fnaa (short introduction)
Short, relaxed evening stroll of Jemaa el-Fnaa square to get a first taste of Marrakech’s atmosphere. Return to hotel for overnight.
Tips from local experts:
- Pick pockets are opportunistic in crowded squares — use a zipped cross-body bag and keep valuables secure.
- Try bottled water from reputable vendors and carry small change for quick purchases.
- Enjoy panoramic views from a rooftop cafe rather than walking into the densest parts of the square at night if you prefer calmer surroundings.
Day 2
Drive north toward Rabat with a brief stop in Casablanca en route; evening in Rabat for overnight.
Drive Marrakech to Casablanca (en route to Rabat)
Scenic inter-city transfer with rest stops along the way; short exterior visit to Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca if schedule allows.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect long driving stretches; bring motion-sickness medication if needed and hydrate regularly.
- Restroom and coffee stops will be scheduled every 1.5–2 hours.
- If you plan to visit Hassan II Mosque interior, wear modest clothing; confirm timing with your guide as entry is by set tour times.
Afternoon: Transfer to Rabat and short orientation walk
Arrival in Rabat, orientation walk and visit to the Kasbah of the Udayas (exterior/short visit depending on timing). Overnight in Rabat.
- Monday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes for cobbled walkways around the kasbah and medina approaches.
- Bring a hat and water — seaside breezes can be cool but sun exposure is still significant.
- Local cafés near Rue des Consuls offer calm seating for a late lunch away from busier tourist spots.
Day 3
Drive from Rabat to Chefchaouen; arrival and free time to explore the blue medina.
Morning transfer Rabat to Chefchaouen
Private transfer north into the Rif Mountains toward Chefchaouen with rest breaks en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Roads into the Rif are mountain roads—expect winding sections and plan for photo stops.
- Carry small currency for roadside stops or purchases in smaller towns en route.
- If you want souvenir shopping in Chefchaouen, wait until you arrive to compare options; many shops carry similar items.
Afternoon: Orientation in Chefchaouen (blue medina)
Leisurely walk through the medina's blue lanes; time for photos and a relaxed café stop. Overnight in Chefchaouen.
Tips from local experts:
- The medina’s lanes are stepped in places — choose low-heel or flat shoes for comfort.
- Respect local customs: wear modest clothing and avoid using tripods in narrow alleys without asking.
- Early evening is especially photogenic as the light softens; plan short walks before sunset for best colors.
Day 4
Transfer from Chefchaouen to Fes, arriving late afternoon. Evening at leisure in Fes.
Drive Chefchaouen to Fes
Private transfer across the Rif foothills to Fes with a scheduled rest stop.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a multi-hour transfer; use this time to rest and enjoy the changing landscape.
- Snack options are limited between towns—pack light snacks if you prefer specific dietary items.
- Communicate any mobility needs to the driver so stops can be adjusted as necessary.
Evening: Short orientation near Fes el-Bali
Light evening walk near the medina entrance to get bearings; return to hotel for overnight.
Tips from local experts:
- The medina can be busy and uneven—keep a close hold on small bags and use a flashlight or phone light if walking after dusk.
- Confirm your hotel’s meeting point for guide pickups the next day; some riads have limited vehicle access.
- Try a small pastry or mint tea at a trusted cafe to acclimatize to local flavors.
Day 5
Full day guided exploration of Fes medina (local guide included). Return to hotel in the evening.
Full-day guided tour of Fes (local guide)
Local guide-led visit to key medina highlights (Fes el-Bali): tanneries, Al-Qarawiyyin exterior, medieval lanes and artisan quarters.
Tips from local experts:
- Follow your local guide’s route—medina alleys are easy to get lost in without guidance.
- Modest dress is recommended inside religious sites; check with your guide before entering.
- Carry small notes for local purchases; many small vendors prefer cash and may not return large bills.
Evening: Relax at your riad
Time to relax at your riad and enjoy included dinner if scheduled by the operator.
Tips from local experts:
- Riad terraces are often pleasant at sunset—ask staff to reserve a quiet table for two.
- If your riad serves traditional dishes, inform staff of any allergies or dietary restrictions in advance.
- Confirm wake-up and pickup times with reception for the next day's early departure.
Day 6
Long transfer from Fes toward the Sahara (Merzouga/Erg Chebbi). Evening camel trek and overnight in a desert bivouac.
Drive Fes to Merzouga (Erg Chebbi)
Full-day transfer across the Middle Atlas and Sahara approach with rest stops; arrival in the Merzouga area in the late afternoon.
Tips from local experts:
- Long driving day—pack essentials in a small daypack for the camel trek and overnight desert stay.
- Temperatures drop sharply after sunset in the desert; bring a warm layer for the evening.
- If you have specific mobility or health concerns, inform the operator in advance due to uneven desert terrain.
Sunset camel trek and overnight in desert bivouac
Short camel ride into the dunes for sunset and an overnight in a desert camp (camel trek included).
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Wear closed-toe shoes for the camel ride and a scarf for potential sand and wind protection.
- Let the driver/guide know if you prefer a shorter camel ride or to be taken by 4x4 to the camp instead.
- Charge electronics before departure from the main hotel — camps have limited or no charging facilities.
Day 7
Early dune sunrise, then depart Merzouga toward Ouarzazate via desert towns and scenic valleys.
Sunrise in the dunes & return by camel/vehicle
Short sunrise moment in the dunes followed by return to Merzouga village and onward departures.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Sunrise is early; set an alarm and wear layers—mornings can be chilly even after warm days.
- Bring a small camera or phone with extra storage for dune photos; angles change quickly with the light.
- Keep hydration available; desert air is dry and can dehydrate you more quickly than expected.
Drive Merzouga to Ouarzazate (via Ziz Valley and desert towns)
Long scenic transfer across the Atlas foothills toward Ouarzazate with stops for photos and rest.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect varied road conditions; allow time in the schedule for stops at scenic viewpoints.
- Carry some local currency for small purchases in roadside towns.
- If prone to motion sickness on mountain roads, choose a seat near the front of the vehicle for a smoother ride.
Day 8
Visit Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou and explore Ouarzazate area before continuing across the High Atlas toward Marrakech the next day.
Visit Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou (UNESCO site area)
Short guided visit/walk around the exterior and viewpoints of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou (time permitting).
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Pathways are uneven—wear sturdy shoes and allow extra time for uphill approaches.
- Bring water and sun protection; shade can be limited around the kasbah’s outer areas.
- Photography from the river-side viewpoint gives a classic fairytale perspective of the kasbah.
Afternoon: Ouarzazate brief orientation & local sights
Short stops around Ouarzazate to see the kasbahs and film studio exteriors (time and access dependent). Overnight in Ouarzazate.
Tips from local experts:
- If interested in studio visits, confirm opening times and access in advance—some require booked tours.
- Shaded cafés around the city center provide a calm place for lunch away from the hottest sun.
- Keep luggage organized and locked in the vehicle if staying only one night to ease transfers.
Day 9
Cross the High Atlas via Tizi n'Tichka pass toward Marrakech; scenic drive with photo stops and arrival in Marrakech late afternoon/early evening.
Drive Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Tizi n'Tichka
Scenic mountain pass crossing with scheduled photo stops; arrive in Marrakech and check in to your hotel.
Tips from local experts:
- Mountain weather can change quickly—carry a lightweight waterproof layer during cooler months.
- Several viewpoints along the pass are unshaded; bring sun protection for photo stops.
- Communicate any motion-sickness concerns in advance so the driver can schedule more frequent breaks.
Evening: Check-in and relaxed dinner in Marrakech
Return to your Marrakech accommodation for check-in and an evening at leisure.
Tips from local experts:
- Rooftop views at sunset are an ideal couples’ moment—ask your riad if they can reserve a quiet spot.
- Confirm dinner arrangements with reception if your evening meal is included or recommended.
- Avoid walking alone late at night in sparsely lit side streets; use hotel-arranged transport if returning late.
Day 10
Full day guided tour of Marrakech with local guide (included). Key sites and relaxed pacing for couples.
Guided Marrakech city tour (local guide)
Visit key sites such as Koutoubia gardens, Bahia Palace, and the Saadian tombs with a local guide. Time in the medina and spice souks included.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your local guide for recommended quieter rooftop cafés for a mid-day break with views.
- Many palaces and museums require modest dress and shoes removed for certain indoor areas—check specifics with your guide.
- Keep bottled water with you and rest frequently in shaded areas during walking segments.
Evening: Leisure or special moment on a rooftop
Recommended relaxed rooftop moment (sunset/cocktail or mint tea) overlooking Jemaa el-Fnaa — a romantic end to the day.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a table at sunset in advance when possible; rooftop spaces fill quickly at that hour.
- If you prefer quieter rooftop venues, ask your guide for recommendations away from the busiest squares.
- Carry a light wrap for cooler evenings on exposed rooftops.
Day 11
Free day in Marrakech for personal exploration, shopping, spa time, or relaxed sightseeing. Driver available for short transfers if pre-arranged.
Free day in Marrakech (leisure and optional rest)
Day at leisure to use as you prefer—shopping in souks, spa/hamam, or relaxed café time. Driver available for short transfers on request.
Tips from local experts:
- If booking a hammam or spa, reserve a private couples treatment in advance to ensure availability.
- Bargain politely in souks—start around 50–60% of the quoted price and meet in the middle.
- Plan to carry a small amount of cash for souk purchases; many small shops do not accept cards.
Day 12
End of tour. Private transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport or hotel drop-off as arranged. Tour concludes after drop-off.
Checkout and private transfer to airport or agreed drop-off point
Driver will transfer you to Marrakech Menara Airport or a central Marrakech drop-off point per your departure arrangements. This concludes the 12-day tour.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your departure time with the driver the evening before to allow for traffic and check-in times.
- Allow at least 2–3 hours before international flights for airport check-in and security.
- Keep small items handy in a day bag (travel documents, phone chargers, medication) so you don’t need to access large luggage at the last minute.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 12 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 8 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 15 |
| Total Places | 15 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Hotel, Attraction, Neighborhood, Culture, Break, Experience, Outdoor |
Why this experience
A 12-day Morocco tour is the luxury of immersion—you'll follow the same comprehensive route through Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fes, the Sahara, and Marrakech, but with two extra days built in for the experiences that matter most. Instead of a quick medina walk, you might take a full day pottery workshop in Fes with a local artisan. Instead of one sunset in the Sahara, you could trek to a second set of dunes. Instead of a rushed Marrakech, you'll have time for the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, a quiet morning in Majorelle Garden, and an evening in Jemaa el-Fna square without feeling hurried. This is the pace that turns a tour into a transformation.
Morocco Travel Shara operates this journey with a licensed guide who belongs to each region—someone who knows where locals eat, where photography is best, and what stories matter. Your transport is air-conditioned, your riads are curated, breakfasts are daily, dinners are authentic, and one night you'll sleep under stars in a Sahara desert camp. The 12-day structure respects Morocco's complexity: you're not just collecting photos, you're beginning to understand how each region connects to the next.
This itinerary suits couples who want the deepest connection possible without extreme activity—those seeking to understand Morocco as a whole rather than snap highlights. Variations exist for trekking, cooking classes, or extra market exploration depending on your interests.
Before you go
- Best time: Spring or autumn. Spring offers wildflowers, mild temperatures, and a fresh energy in mountain villages and coastal towns. Autumn brings the same comfort with clearer skies and slightly fewer travelers. Summer heat in the Sahara exceeds 40°C; winter brings rain in mountains and cold nights in desert camps.
- Budget: Mid-range to premium. Check the booking widget for current tour pricing. This covers private transport, air-conditioned vehicle throughout, accommodation in 3–4 star riads and one desert camp, daily breakfasts, most dinners, all guided walks, one camel ride, and one night in a traditional Bedouin tent with bedding. Extras: additional meals, drinks, tips, optional workshops (pottery, cooking), souvenirs, and personal activities.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Days combine vehicle travel (3–5 hours) with guided exploration on foot (2–4 hours in medinas, uneven ground). One camel ride and one night in a basic desert camp. Minimal physical exertion required; the pace is leisurely.
- What to bring: Lightweight, layered clothing for cool mornings and warm afternoons, desert-appropriate night layers, broken-in walking shoes, wide-brimmed hat and strong sunscreen, a scarf or headwrap for sun and mosque access, water bottle (refill frequently), phone power bank, motion sickness tablets for mountain roads, a small torch for desert navigation, and a camera or phone for the moments that matter most.
- Getting there: Casablanca airport is Morocco's main international gateway. Book a direct flight from Europe if possible. Your operator arranges a hotel pickup on Day 1; confirm transfer details when you book.
- Accessibility: Medinas involve stairs, narrow passages, and uneven cobblestones—limiting for mobility issues. Desert camp is basic (tent on sand, shared toilets, minimal facilities). Riads often have multi-story layouts without lifts. Discuss any accessibility needs with your operator before committing.
Frequently asked questions
What makes the 12-day version different from 10 or 11 days? The extra days are deliberately unscheduled—your guide suggests options, but you choose the pace. You might extend a city visit, skip an activity you're not interested in, or request an experience (like a cooking class) that wasn't on the itinerary. Flexibility is the gift of the 12-day structure.
Can I customize which cities I visit? Some. Core stops like the Sahara and Marrakech are standard. But your operator may offer variations—combining Chefchaouen with Tangier, adding a Coastal Atlantic town, or including the Anti-Atlas mountains. Ask at booking time.
Is there time for shopping? Absolutely. In fact, the 12-day pace is ideal for souk shopping—you can browse Fes for hours without feeling rushed, haggle with vendors you've built rapport with, and actually enjoy the experience. Many couples return with meaningful purchases on the 12-day tour that felt impossible on shorter versions.
How much camel riding is involved? Typically one camel trek at sunset in Merzouga, lasting 1–2 hours. If you prefer, the camel ride is optional—some travelers choose to watch from a vehicle or walk alongside instead. No extreme riding required.
Complete your trip in Casablanca
Extend your journey with a 2-day trip to Chefchaouen's blue city, or deepen your Marrakech connection with a private day trip to Marrakech's gardens and medina. Browse all Casablanca itineraries.
Last updated: April 2026
