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12 Day Morocco Desert Tour Starting from Casablanca
Overview
12 Days Desert Tour from Casablanca. This 12 day and 11 night journey takes you across Morocco from north to south, exploring the Atlantic coast, historic sites, UNESCO World Heritage landmarks, beautiful beaches, traditional Kasbahs, and some of the country’s oldest monuments. Experience the stunning landscapes of the Sahara Desert with a camel trek, and visit Morocco’s imperial cities, including Fes, Marrakech, Meknes, and Rabat.
- Duration: 12 days/11 nights
- Start: Casablanca
- End: Casablanca
- Tour Style: Private & Small group
- Price: Check it below
Highlights of the 12 Day Morocco Desert Tour Starting from Casablanca:
- Hassan II Mosque & Casablanca Corniche – Visit Morocco’s largest mosque and enjoy a walk along the Atlantic coast.
- El Jadida & Essaouira – Explore the UNESCO-listed Portuguese medina in El Jadida and the historic walled city and port of Essaouira.
- Marrakech Medina & Djamaa El Fnaa – Discover the vibrant square, souks, and atmosphere of the Red City.
- Marrakech Monuments & Majorelle Gardens – Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, Ali Ben Youssef School, Saadian and Bahia Palaces, and the colorful gardens.
- Ait Benhaddou Kasbah & High Atlas Mountains – Tour the UNESCO World Heritage kasbah and drive through scenic mountain passes.
- Dades Valley & Todra Gorges – Admire dramatic gorges, rock formations, and Berber villages along the way.
- Merzouga Desert & Camel Trek – Ride camels across Erg Chebbi dunes, meet Berber families, enjoy Gnawa music, and sleep under the stars.
- Ziz Valley & Middle Atlas – Travel through palm oases, cedar forests, and see Barbary monkeys near Ifrane on the way to Fes.
- Fes Medina & Tanneries – Explore the old imperial city with a local guide, visiting workshops, Jewish Quarter, Tanneries, and Al Karaouine University.
- Volubilis & Meknes – Walk among Roman ruins and explore Meknes’ historic medina and iconic Bab Mansour gate.
Itinerary of the 12 Day Morocco Desert Tour Starting from Casablanca:
Day 1: Arrival ⇢ Casablanca
Upon arrival at Casablanca Airport, your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Begin exploring Morocco’s largest city with visits to the Hassan II Mosque, the magnificent coastal Corniche, and enjoy the vibrant city atmosphere. Overnight in Casablanca.
Day 2: Casablanca ⇢ El Jadida ⇢ Essaouira
Depart Casablanca heading southwest along the Atlantic coast. Stop in El Jadida, the historic Portuguese city formerly known as Mazagan, with its UNESCO-listed medina (established 1513). Continue along the scenic coast to Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its windy fishing port, wide beaches, and historic walled medina. Afternoon free for independent exploration. Overnight in a Riad.
Day 3: Essaouira ⇢ Marrakech
Morning visit to Essaouira to explore its ramparts, old medina, and the Dutch cannons facing the sea. Wander the bustling markets and enjoy the coastal charm. In the afternoon, drive to Marrakech, with free time to stroll around Jemaa el-Fna Square and explore the Medina. Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 4: Full Day ⇢ Marrakech
Full day optional private guided tour of Marrakech. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the Medina, and the vibrant souks. Explore hidden gems such as the Ali Ben Youssef Koranic School, Saadian Palace, Bahia Palace, and the colorful Majorelle Gardens. Return to the Riad for overnight stay.
Day 5: Marrakech ⇢ High Atlas ⇢ Ait Benhaddou Kasbah ⇢ Dades Valley
Travel southeast through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass (2,260 m). Stop to admire panoramic mountain views and visit traditional Berber villages. Arrive at Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous filming location. Continue to Ouarzazate, passing Atlas Studios, the Roses Valley, and reach Dades Valley for dinner and overnight at a hotel or Riad.
Day 6: Dades Valley ⇢ Todra Gorges ⇢ Alnif ⇢ Tafraoute
After breakfast, journey eastwards through Todra Gorges and the town of Tinghir, admiring the steep canyon walls and scenic landscapes. Continue via Alnif, exploring Berber villages with orchards along the route. Cross desert plains dotted with acacia trees and small dunes. Picnic under the acacias, meet local Berber tribes, and visit a Fossils and Minerals Cooperative in Tafraoute. Overnight in Tafraoute.
Day 7: Tafraoute ⇢ Ramlia ⇢ Ouzina ⇢ Khamlia ⇢ Merzouga
Begin the day on the Paris-Dakar Rally Track, traversing sandy riverbeds, dry lakes, Berber villages, and the stunning Ouzina Dunes. Stop in Khamlia Village, home of the Gnawa community, for traditional music performances. Enjoy a local lunch with Berber pizza and rice salad. Arrive at Merzouga, meet your camel guide, and ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes to your desert camp. Dinner and Berber drumming under the stars. Overnight in the desert camp.
Day 8: Merzouga ⇢ Erfoud ⇢ Ziz Valley ⇢ Midelt ⇢ Azrou ⇢ Ifrane ⇢ Fes
Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise over the dunes. Spend the day exploring the desert surroundings, visiting Nomad families and Khamlia village, enjoying authentic music performances. Lunch includes traditional Berber pizza. Return to your hotel or Riad for overnight.
Day 9: Full Day ⇢ Fes
Depart Merzouga, passing through Rissani and Erfoud, with stops to admire the Ziz Valley. Continue through Midelt and the Tizi N’Talghamt Pass, stopping for lunch. Travel through cedar forests in the Middle Atlas Mountains, with opportunities to see Barbary apes, and stop in Ifrane before arriving in Fes. Overnight in Fes.
Day 10: Fes ⇢ Meknes ⇢ Volubilis ⇢ Chefchaouen
Full day guided tour of Fes, exploring the Royal Palace Gate, traditional ceramics cooperatives, the Medina’s narrow streets, Jewish Quarter, Tanneries, and cultural landmarks including Al Karaouine University. In the afternoon, enjoy a panoramic view over the Medina and visit the New City. Overnight in Fes.
Day 11: Chefchaouen ⇢ Rabat ⇢ Casablanca
Depart Fes towards Meknes, Morocco’s imperial city, and explore its historical walls, Bab Mansour, and lunch in the city. Continue to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, an open-air museum showcasing ancient Moroccan history. Arrive in Chefchaouen, the Blue City, nestled in the Rif Mountains. Overnight in Chefchaouen.
Day 12: Casablanca ⇢ Airport
Leave Chefchaouen and drive to Rabat, Morocco’s capital, visiting the Kasbah of Udayas, Hassan Tower, Mohammed V Mausoleum, and other historical sites. Continue to Casablanca for any final sightseeing or shopping. Transfer to Casablanca Airport for departure. End of the 12-day desert tour.
Gallery
Inclusive and Exclusive of the tour
Price Includes:
- Private transportation by air-conditioned 4×4, minibus, or bus
- Multilingual driver/guide
- Local guides in Fes and Marrakech
- Fuel for the vehicle
- 10 nights in hotels or riads (breakfast included)
- 1 night in a desert camp (dinner and breakfast included)
- Camel ride in the desert
- Sandboarding activity
Price Excludes:
- Drinks
- Lunches
- Entrance fees to monuments
Map of the tour
tour price:
The pricing for This tour starts at €160 per person. Please note that the cost can vary based on factors such as the number of travelers, your choice of accommodations, and the time of year. Larger groups benefit from lower per-person rates.
The €160 per person rate applies to groups of 17 or more.
For smaller groups, such as 2 travelers, the price starts at €269 per person.
For personalized pricing tailored to your group, please contact us using the form below. Our team will provide the rates that best match your needs.
Booking
Please use the form below to email us at compassmoroccotours@gmail.com, and we will respond as fast as possible. You can also send a WhatsApp message or call us at +212 676-594706. We look forward to hearing from you!
REVIEWS
Reviews
★★★★★
Our 7-day Morocco tour with Compass Morocco Tours was simply incredible! From Marrakech to the Sahara, everything was perfectly organized. Our driver Youssef was knowledgeable and friendly, and the desert camp in Merzouga was beyond amazing. Highly recommend this company for anyone visiting Morocco!
★★★★★
We had such a wonderful experience with Compass Morocco Tours! The team was professional, our guide was patient and informative, and the landscapes were breathtaking. The camel ride and night under the stars in the Sahara were unforgettable moments for my family.
★★★★★
Compass Morocco Tours made our trip seamless and stress-free. The itinerary covered so much — from the bustling souks of Fes to the peaceful dunes of Erg Chebbi. The vehicle was super comfortable, and we felt safe and well cared for the entire journey.
★★★★★
Traveling through Morocco with Compass Morocco Tours was a dream come true. Every detail was thought out — beautiful riads, delicious food, and amazing hospitality. Our driver Hassan shared so much about Moroccan culture and history. A truly authentic experience!
★★★★★
I can’t say enough good things about Compass Morocco Tours! The desert night was magical — luxury tents, great music, and friendly Berber hosts. It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and I’d absolutely do it again.
★★★★★
What a fantastic journey! Compass Morocco Tours made sure everything ran smoothly from start to finish. The views through the Atlas Mountains and the sunset over the dunes were simply breathtaking. Thank you for an unforgettable experience!
★★★★★
Amazing experience with Compass Morocco Tours! The driver was very kind and flexible, always making sure we were comfortable. The tour was well-balanced between cultural visits and time to relax. Morocco completely stole my heart!
★★★★★
Our 5-day desert tour was outstanding. The Compass Morocco Tours team handled everything perfectly — great communication before the trip, comfortable hotels, and a driver who became like a friend. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to see the real Morocco.
★★★★★
This was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had. Compass Morocco Tours exceeded all expectations. The camp in Merzouga was so peaceful, and waking up to the sunrise over the dunes was just magical. Merci for such wonderful memories!
★★★★★
Compass Morocco Tours provided excellent service throughout our journey. The tour was well-paced, full of local insights, and every stop felt meaningful. Morocco is beautiful, and this company made it even more special.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to pay for the tour?
Our payment process is simple and flexible. To confirm your booking, we ask for a small deposit, which can be paid through PayPal, bank transfer, or Wise. The remaining balance can be settled in cash on the first day of your tour directly with your driver or guide. We accept euros, US dollars, or the equivalent in Moroccan dirhams.
What is the best desert tour from Marrakech?
The best desert tour from Marrakech depends on how much time you have. The 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour is the most popular, as it allows you to experience the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi, ride camels, and sleep in a luxury desert camp under the stars. If you have more time, the 4-day or 5-day desert tours offer a deeper and more relaxed exploration of Morocco’s desert landscapes and kasbahs.
Can I skip the camel ride to the camp?
Yes, absolutely. If you prefer not to ride a camel, we can take you to the camp in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle instead
How far is the desert from Fes?
The desert is around 500 km (about 311 miles) from Fes, which takes roughly 7 and a half hours to drive.
What type of vehicles are used for this trip?
Your comfort is our top priority. At Compass Morocco Tours , we provide modern and comfortable vehicles suited to every group size. Depending on your needs, you’ll travel in vehicles such as a Toyota Prado Land Cruiser TX, Ford Tourneo Custom, or a Mercedes Benz Sprinter minibus for larger groups. We believe that a smooth and comfortable journey makes your entire travel experience more enjoyable.
Does the camp have private bathrooms?
Certainly. All the camps we offer are luxury desert camps, designed to provide maximum comfort and equipped with private en-suite bathrooms for your convenience.
Can you do a day trip to the desert from Marrakech?
Technically, you cannot reach the real Sahara Desert on a day trip from Marrakech because it is too far away. However, you can take a day trip to the Agafay Desert, located just 40 minutes from Marrakech. Agafay offers a desert-like experience with rocky landscapes, camel rides, quad biking, and stunning views of the Atlas Mountains.
Is it worth going to the Sahara Desert in Morocco?
Absolutely! A visit to the Sahara Desert is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Morocco. Watching the sunset and sunrise over the vast dunes, riding camels across the golden sands, and spending a night in a luxury desert camp under the starry sky create truly magical memories that stay with you forever.
What is the closest desert to Marrakech?
The Agafay Desert is the nearest desert to Marrakech, located about 30 to 40 km southwest of the city. Unlike the Sahara, it’s a rocky desert with rolling hills and arid landscapes, but it provides a perfect short getaway for travelers looking to experience a desert atmosphere without the long journey.
Is the Sahara Desert close to Marrakech?
Not exactly. The Sahara Desert lies about 560 km from Marrakech. Traveling to the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga takes approximately 8 to 10 hours by road. Most tours break up the journey over two days, with an overnight stay in either the Dades Valley or Ouarzazate to make the trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
How far in advance should we book this tour?
It’s always a good idea to book your tour as early as possible to guarantee your preferred dates and ensure availability — after all, the early bird gets the best experience!
How long does it take to get to the desert from Marrakech?
The journey to Merzouga, home of the famous Sahara dunes, takes around 8 to 10 hours by road. Most desert tours divide the trip into several days to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore breathtaking sites such as the High Atlas Mountains, the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, and the stunning Dades Gorges.
How do I get from Marrakech to the desert?
The easiest and most comfortable way to reach the desert is by joining a private or small-group tour from Marrakech. Your driver-guide will take you on a scenic journey across the Atlas Mountains, passing through picturesque valleys and historic kasbahs before arriving in the Sahara Desert. While renting a car is also an option, a guided tour provides local insight, stress-free travel, and a richer overall experience.
Where is the best desert in Morocco?
The Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga are widely regarded as the best desert experience in Morocco, known for their breathtaking golden sand dunes and genuine desert ambiance. Another excellent choice is Erg Chigaga, located near M’Hamid, offering a more remote and untouched landscape—ideal for travelers in search of adventure, peace, and an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience.