About This Morocco Grand Tour
Our Morocco Grand Tour is a comprehensive 16-day journey designed to reveal the remarkable diversity of Morocco, from its historic imperial cities and ancient medinas to the Sahara Desert, Atlas Mountains and Atlantic coast.
Starting in Casablanca, the journey takes you through Rabat and Fes before crossing the Middle Atlas and continuing to Marrakech. Discover UNESCO-listed heritage sites, colorful souks, traditional architecture and some of Morocco’s most fascinating cultural landmarks with carefully selected guided visits.
The adventure then continues across the High Atlas Mountains to Aït Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate and the dramatic Dades and Todra landscapes before reaching Merzouga and the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Experience a camel ride at sunset, an overnight stay in a luxury desert camp and a 4×4 discovery of the surrounding desert.
From the Sahara, travel through the remote landscapes of southern Morocco toward Zagora, Taroudant and Tafraoute, discovering saffron country, Amazigh heritage, the Anti-Atlas Mountains and the spectacular Aït Mansour Gorges.
Your Morocco Grand Tour concludes on the Atlantic coast in Agadir, after an exceptional itinerary combining Morocco’s imperial heritage, desert landscapes, mountains, traditional villages and coastal scenery.
Morocco Grand Tour Highlights
- Visit Casablanca and the impressive Hassan II Mosque
- Explore Rabat, Morocco’s historic administrative capital
- Discover the UNESCO-listed medina of Fes with a local guide
- Visit Meknes, Volubilis and Moulay Idriss
- Cross the Middle Atlas and discover Ifrane
- Enjoy a complete guided exploration of Marrakech
- Take a day trip to the Atlantic city of Essaouira
- Cross the High Atlas through the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass
- Explore the UNESCO-listed ksar of Aït Ben Haddou
- Discover Ouarzazate and the spectacular Dades Valley
- Walk through the impressive Todra Gorges
- Experience Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Enjoy a sunset camel ride and luxury Sahara desert camp
- Explore the Merzouga region by 4×4 and experience Gnaoua culture in Khamlia
- Travel through Rissani, Alnif and the Draa region to Zagora
- Discover Morocco’s saffron country around Taliouine
- Explore Taroudant and the landscapes of the Anti-Atlas
- Discover Tafraoute, Ameln Valley and Aït Mansour Gorges
- Visit traditional Amazigh heritage sites around Aït Baha
- Finish your journey beside the Atlantic Ocean in Agadir
Learn more about Morocco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discover more travel information on the official Visit Morocco website.
💰 Price
From 2750 $
🚗 Departure
Casablanca / Marrakech
👥 Guests
6
🗣️ Language
English
The package includes :
The package does not include :
16-Day Morocco Grand Tour Itinerary
Embark on an unforgettable Morocco Grand Tour across the country, combining imperial cities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Desert, ancient kasbahs, Amazigh villages and Morocco’s Atlantic coast. This carefully designed 16-day itinerary takes you from Casablanca to Rabat, Fes, Marrakech, Merzouga, Zagora, Tafraoute and Agadir, offering an immersive journey through Morocco’s history, culture and spectacular landscapes.
This 16-day Morocco Grand Tour takes you across the country on an extensive journey combining imperial cities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Atlas Mountains, Sahara Desert, traditional Amazigh regions and Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Discover the complete day-by-day itinerary below.
Before your journey, explore our Casablanca Travel Guide, Rabat Travel Guide, Tangier Travel guide, Chefchaouen Travel Guide, Fes Travel Guide, Meknes & Volubilis Travel Guide, Merzouga Sahara Desert Travel Guide, Todra Gorge Travel Guide, Valley of Rose Travel Guide, Dades Valley Travel Guide, Ouarzazate Travel Guide, Ait Ben Haddou Travel Guide, Agadir Travel Guide , Tafraoute Travel Guide ,Taroudant Travel Guide Marrakech Travel Guide, and Essaouira Travel guide for detailed destination information and practical tips.
For practical advice before departure, read our Morocco Travel Tips.
DAY 1: CASABLANCA → RABAT
- Upon arrival at Casablanca Airport, meet your multilingual driver and begin your Morocco Grand Tour with a visit to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of Casablanca’s most iconic landmarks. The visit includes both the impressive exterior and an interior guided tour.
- After the mosque visit, enjoy a lunch break followed by a panoramic discovery of Morocco’s economic capital. See United Nations Square, Mohammed V Boulevard, the residential district of Anfa and the famous Ain Diab Corniche along the Atlantic Ocean.
- In the afternoon, continue north to Rabat, Morocco’s administrative capital and one of its four imperial cities.Dinner and overnight in Rabat.
- Note: The interior visit of Hassan II Mosque is conducted as part of an official guided group.
DAY 2: RABAT → FES
- After breakfast, meet your local guide for a historical discovery of Rabat.Begin with the esplanade of the Royal Palace – Dar Al Makhzen, surrounded by impressive historic gates and the Mechouar.
- Continue to the iconic Hassan Tower and the prestigious Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a remarkable example of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship and architecture.
- Your exploration continues along the historic ramparts and to the beautiful Kasbah of the Udayas, whose origins date back to the Almohad period. Walk through its picturesque lanes and gardens while discovering an important part of Rabat’s history.
- After lunch, depart for Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital and one of the country’s oldest imperial cities.Dinner and overnight in Fes.
DAY 3: GUIDED TOUR OF FES
- After breakfast, spend the day discovering the extraordinary historical heritage of Fes with a local guide.Begin in Fes El Jdid with a walk along the Royal Palace esplanade, where you can admire its magnificent decorated gates. Continue toward Fes El Bali, the ancient medina and UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose origins date back to the early Idrisid period.
- Walk through its labyrinth of narrow streets and discover the exquisite Al Attarine Madrasa, renowned for its intricate zellij tiles, carved cedar wood and traditional stucco work.
- Continue past Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University, followed by Nejjarine Square and its famous mosaic fountain. Explore the traditional souks and artisan quarters where generations of craftsmen continue to practice ancestral trades.
- You will also discover the famous Chouara Tanneries, one of the most recognizable sights in the Fes medina.After lunch, visit a traditional pottery and ceramics workshop to discover the craftsmanship behind the renowned Fes ceramics.
- Finish the day at Borj Nord, offering a magnificent panoramic view across the old city.Dinner and overnight in Fes.
DAY 4: FES → VOLUBILIS → MOULAY IDRISS → MEKNES → FES
- BAfter breakfast, depart from Fes toward the archaeological site of Volubilis, situated at the foot of Jebel Zerhoun.Explore the impressive remains of this ancient Roman city, famous for its mosaics, columns, arches and archaeological heritage.
- Continue toward the sacred town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, where you can admire beautiful panoramic views over the surrounding hills and countryside.The journey continues to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities and the former capital of Sultan Moulay Ismail.
- After lunch, enjoy a guided exploration of the historical city, including El Hedim Square, its traditional souks and local food market. Stop at the monumental Bab Lakhmis and the magnificent Bab Mansour, one of Morocco’s most celebrated historic gates.
- Continue with the historical sites associated with Moulay Ismail, including Heri Es-Souani, the Agdal Basin and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, according to opening conditions.Return to Fes in the late afternoon.Dinner and overnight in Fes.
- Some monuments may be subject to access restrictions or restoration works.
DAY 5: FES → IFRANE → MIDDLE ATLAS → MARRAKECH
- After breakfast, leave Fes and travel south toward Marrakech, crossing the landscapes of the Middle Atlas.
- Stop in Ifrane, a mountain town known for its distinctive architecture, green surroundings and alpine atmosphere. Often nicknamed the “Switzerland of Morocco,” Ifrane offers a striking contrast with Morocco’s historic medinas and desert regions.
- Continue through the Middle Atlas landscapes and cedar country, where Barbary macaques may occasionally be observed in their natural environment.
- Enjoy a lunch stop along the journey before continuing toward Marrakech.Arrival in the legendary Red City in the late afternoon or evening.Dinner and overnight in Marrakech.
DAY 6: GUIDED TOUR OF MARRAKECH
- After breakfast, meet your local guide for a full-day exploration of Marrakech, one of the highlights of this Morocco Grand Tour.Begin with the celebrated Majorelle Garden, renowned for its exotic vegetation, distinctive architecture and intense Majorelle blue.
- Continue past Marrakech’s historic ramparts before visiting the magnificent Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of late 19th-century Moroccan architecture decorated with courtyards, carved wood, painted ceilings and traditional zellij.
- After lunch in the medina, continue on foot through the UNESCO-listed historic center of Marrakech. Explore the colorful souks filled with spices, textiles, leatherwork, lanterns and traditional handicrafts.Visit the beautifully restored Ben Youssef Madrasa, one of the city’s finest examples of historic Islamic architecture.
- Continue toward legendary Jemaa el-Fna Square, the vibrant heart of Marrakech, where storytellers, musicians, food stalls and traditional performers contribute to its unique atmosphere.A visit to a traditional herbalist introduces you to Moroccan spices, aromatic plants and traditional products.
- Conclude the guided tour near the iconic Koutoubia Mosque and Minaret, one of Marrakech’s most recognizable landmarks.Dinner and overnight in Marrakech.
DAY 7: MARRAKECH → ESSAOUIRA → MARRAKECH
- After breakfast, depart for a full-day excursion to Essaouira, the charming Atlantic city historically known as Mogador.Travel through landscapes dominated by argan trees and stop at a local argan oil cooperative to discover the traditional production process and the importance of argan oil to local communities.
- Upon arrival in Essaouira, enjoy lunch near the Atlantic before beginning a guided historical walking tour.Explore the city’s historic Skala, fortified ramparts and picturesque fishing port, recognizable by its traditional blue boats. Continue through the medina and its artisan souks, where woodwork, textiles, jewelry and other traditional crafts are still produced.
- Discover the former consulate district and the historic Mellah, reflecting Essaouira’s multicultural heritage.After enjoying the atmosphere of this beautiful coastal city, return to Marrakech.Dinner and overnight in Marrakech.
DAY 8: MARRAKECH → AÏT BEN HADDOU → OUARZAZATE → DADES VALLEY
- After breakfast, leave Marrakech and cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka road, reaching elevations above 2,000 meters and offering impressive mountain panoramas.
- Continue toward the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aït Ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s most famous fortified villages. Built primarily from traditional earthen architecture, this historic ksar represents an outstanding example of pre-Saharan construction.
- After exploring Aït Ben Haddou, continue toward Ouarzazate, often considered the gateway to southern Morocco. Enjoy a panoramic discovery of the city and a photo stop near the historic Taourirt Kasbah.The journey then continues toward the spectacular Dades Valley, passing through changing landscapes and traditional settlements.
- Discover the unusual rock formations known as the Monkey Fingers and continue toward the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Gorges, including a panoramic stop overlooking the winding road at Tissadrine.Dinner and overnight in the Dades Valley.
DAY 9: DADES → TODRA GORGES → TINGHIR → TINJDAD → ERFOUD → MERZOUGA
- After breakfast, depart through the landscapes of southern Morocco toward Tinghir and the spectacular Todra Gorges.Enjoy a walk through the gorge, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs carved over thousands of years by the Todra River. With rock walls reaching several hundred meters in places, Todra is one of southern Morocco’s most impressive natural landscapes.
- Continue toward Tinjdad for lunch before travelling to Erfoud, traditionally regarded as one of the gateways to the Sahara.From Erfoud, continue toward Merzouga, where the immense golden dunes of Erg Chebbi gradually dominate the horizon.
- Meet your camel handlers and begin a memorable camel ride across the Sahara dunes. Pause among the dunes to admire the sunset before continuing toward your luxury desert camp.
- Enjoy dinner followed by a traditional desert evening beneath the Saharan sky.Dinner and overnight in a luxury desert camp in Merzouga.
DAY 10: MERZOUGA → ERG CHEBBI 4×4 EXPERIENCE → KHAMLIA → HASSI LABIED
- Wake early if you wish to experience the spectacular Sahara sunrise over the dunes of Erg Chebbi.After breakfast, begin a 4×4 excursion around Erg Chebbi, whose highest dunes rise dramatically above the surrounding desert landscape.
- Continue to the village of Khamlia, known for its Gnaoua musical heritage. Meet local musicians and enjoy a traditional performance while learning more about the area’s cultural traditions.The excursion continues toward Hassi Labied, where you can discover the oasis and its traditional irrigation system.
- Return to your accommodation for lunch followed by free time to enjoy the exceptional desert surroundings. Depending on your accommodation, relax by the pool, walk near the dunes or simply appreciate the tranquility of the Sahara.
- Later in the afternoon, enjoy another opportunity to experience the dunes and admire the changing colors of the desert at sunset.Dinner and overnight in the Merzouga area.
DAY 11: MERZOUGA → RISSANI → ALNIF → ZAGORA
- After breakfast, leave the Erg Chebbi region and travel toward Rissani, an important historic trading center and former caravan town.
- Explore its traditional souk when operating and discover local products, including the region’s renowned dates.Continue through the remote landscapes of southeastern Morocco toward Alnif, where you will stop for lunch.
- The journey then continues toward Zagora, crossing a succession of arid landscapes, traditional Amazigh villages and remote desert scenery.
- Zagora played an important historical role in the trans-Saharan caravan routes. Its famous “Timbuktu 52 Days” sign recalls the era when caravans crossed the Sahara toward West Africa.Dinner and overnight in Zagora.
DAY 12: ZAGORA → FOUM ZGUID → TAZNAKHT → TALIOUINE → TAROUDANT
- After breakfast, depart from Zagora toward Foum Zguid, travelling through some of southern Morocco’s most remote and dramatic landscapes.
- Continue toward Taznakht, an area known for traditional Amazigh carpets, before reaching Taliouine, Morocco’s most famous saffron-producing region.
- Known as “red gold,” saffron has played an important economic and cultural role in this region for generations. Visit a local cooperative to learn more about its cultivation, harvesting and traditional uses.
- Continue toward Ouled Berhil, with a lunch stop along the way. As the landscape becomes increasingly dominated by argan trees, you may occasionally see the famous sight of goats climbing among their branches.Continue toward the historic walled town of Taroudant.Dinner and overnight in Taroudant.
DAY 13: TAROUDANT → AMELN VALLEY → AÏT MANSOUR GORGES → TAFRAOUTE
- After breakfast, depart Taroudant and enter the spectacular landscapes of Morocco’s Anti-Atlas Mountains.Travel through the beautiful Ameln Valley, surrounded by rocky peaks, traditional villages and palm groves, before reaching Tafraoute, a charming town set within an extraordinary granite landscape.
- Enjoy a panoramic stop to observe the famous natural rock formation often referred to as the Lion’s Head.After lunch in Tafraoute, continue toward the village of Aguerd Oudad, where you will see the distinctive rock formation known as Napoleon’s Hat.
- The journey continues through the magnificent Aït Mansour Gorges, where palm groves and traditional villages contrast dramatically with the surrounding mountains.
- You will also discover the famous Painted Rocks, an artistic installation associated with Belgian artist Jean Vérame, set among Tafraoute’s immense granite formations.
- Return to Tafraoute and enjoy a short walk through the town center, known for its traditional Amazigh craftsmanship, including handmade leather slippers.Dinner and overnight in Tafraoute.
DAY 14: TAFRAOUTE → TIZOURGANE → AÏT BAHA → AGADIR
- After breakfast, leave Tafraoute and travel toward the historic Tizourgane Kasbah, an impressive fortified village built on a rocky hill overlooking the Anti-Atlas landscape..
- Continue toward Aït Baha and visit the traditional collective granary of Agadir Imchguiguiln. These fortified communal granaries were historically used by Amazigh communities to protect harvests, food supplies, jewelry, documents and other valuable possessions..
- The journey then continues toward Agadir on Morocco’s Atlantic coast.After lunch, visit Agadir Oufella, overlooking the modern city and bay. From its elevated position, enjoy one of the finest panoramic views of Agadir and the Atlantic Ocean..
- Continue with a panoramic discovery of the city before transferring to your accommodation.The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax.Dinner and overnight in Agadir..
- Access to certain heritage sites may be subject to restoration works or local opening conditions..
DAY 15: AGADIR – FREE DAY
- After breakfast, enjoy a full free day in Agadir on a half-board basis.Take advantage of the city’s long Atlantic beach, seaside promenade and relaxed coastal atmosphere. You may spend the day at leisure, enjoy your hotel facilities, explore the city independently or choose from optional excursions and activities available locally.
- This relaxed day provides the perfect opportunity to unwind after your extensive journey across Morocco.Dinner and overnight in Agadir.
DAY 16: AGADIR → AGADIR AIRPORT / DEPARTURE
- Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before your scheduled transfer to Agadir Airport for your departure flight.Depending on your flight arrangements, a transfer to Casablanca can also be organized when required.
- Your 16-day Morocco Grand Tour comes to an end after an extraordinary journey through Morocco’s imperial cities, mountains, Sahara Desert, ancient kasbahs, Amazigh regions and Atlantic coast.
- End of our services.
FAQ – Morocco Grand Tour – 16-Day Journey from Imperial Cities to the Sahara
1. How long is the Morocco Grand Tour?
The Morocco Grand Tour lasts 16 days and 15 nights, offering an extensive journey through Morocco’s imperial cities, Atlantic coast, Atlas Mountains, Sahara Desert and southern regions. The itinerary begins in Casablanca and ends in Agadir, with an airport transfer on the final day.
2. What destinations are included in the Morocco Grand Tour?
The Morocco Grand Tour includes Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Meknes, Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, Ifrane, Marrakech, Essaouira, Aït Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, Dades Valley, Todra Gorges, Merzouga, Rissani, Zagora, Taliouine, Taroudant, Tafraoute and Agadir.
3. Does this 16-day Morocco tour include the Sahara Desert?
Yes. The itinerary includes an immersive Sahara experience in Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes, including a camel ride at sunset, an overnight stay in a luxury desert camp and a 4×4 excursion around the desert region.
4. Is accommodation included during the Morocco Grand Tour?
Yes. Accommodation is included throughout the tour according to the selected package. The journey combines carefully selected hotels and riads with a luxury desert camp in Merzouga, providing comfortable stays across the different regions of Morocco.
5. Are meals included during the tour?
The tour is primarily offered on a half-board basis, including breakfast and dinner at the accommodations. Some lunches may be arranged separately during sightseeing days or according to the final package and confirmed inclusions.
6. Are guided city tours included?
Yes. Guided cultural and historical visits are included at several important destinations, including Rabat, Fes, Meknes, Marrakech and Essaouira. Local licensed guides help travelers discover the history, architecture, medinas and cultural heritage of each destination.
7. What is included in the Merzouga desert experience?
The Merzouga experience includes discovering the Erg Chebbi dunes, a sunset camel ride, an overnight stay in a luxury desert camp and a 4×4 excursion around the desert. The itinerary also visits Khamlia village for a traditional Gnaoua music experience and the Hassi Labied oasis.
8. Does the tour visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
Yes. The itinerary visits several historically important locations, including UNESCO-listed sites such as the Medina of Fes, Medina of Marrakech, archaeological site of Volubilis and Ksar of Aït Ben Haddou.
9. Is transportation included throughout the 16-day tour?
Yes. Transportation between the destinations in the itinerary is provided in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle appropriate for the number of travelers. Airport transfers specified in the confirmed itinerary are also included.
10. Can the Morocco Grand Tour be customized?
Yes. Shade Explore specializes in tailor-made Morocco journeys. The Morocco Grand Tour can be customized according to your travel dates, interests, accommodation preferences, desired activities and arrival or departure airports.
11. Is this tour suitable for couples, families and small groups?
Yes. The itinerary can be arranged for couples, families, friends and private small groups. Transportation and accommodation arrangements can be adapted according to the number of travelers and their requirements.
12. What should I pack for the Morocco Grand Tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, sun protection and a light jacket are recommended. Because the tour crosses different environments—from the Atlantic coast and Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert—travelers should also bring warmer layers for cool evenings, particularly during autumn and winter.
13. What is the best time of year for this Morocco Grand Tour?
The tour can operate throughout much of the year, but spring and autumn are particularly comfortable for a journey covering both northern Morocco and the Sahara. Temperatures vary considerably between the coast, mountains, imperial cities and desert, so conditions should be considered when selecting travel dates.
14. Does the tour include a free day in Agadir?
Yes. Day 15 is a free day in Agadir, allowing travelers to relax at the seaside resort or choose from optional activities. It provides a relaxing conclusion after exploring Morocco from the imperial cities to the Sahara and Anti-Atlas regions.
15. Where does the Morocco Grand Tour start and finish?
The 16-day Morocco Grand Tour starts in Casablanca, with airport pickup, and finishes in Agadir, with a transfer to Agadir Airport on Day 16. A transfer to Casablanca can also be arranged depending on the final travel plan.