5-Day Morocco Sahara Desert Tour from Casablanca
About This Tour
This private 5-day Morocco journey begins in Casablanca and finishes in Marrakech. Along the route, you will experience Casablanca, Volubilis, Meknes, Fes, Ifrane, and more. The itinerary is designed to balance long scenic drives with meaningful stops, authentic local experiences, and time to enjoy the destination rather than simply pass through it. With Sahara Star Tours, the experience is arranged as a private trip with air-conditioned transport, local support, and an itinerary that can be tailored to your travel style. This route is ideal for travelers who want to combine Morocco's landscapes and cultural heritage with a genuine Sahara experience.
Highlights:
- Merzouga Sahara and Erg Chebbi dunes
- Desert camel trekking at sunset
- UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
- Scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains
- Fes medina and historic cultural sites
- Marrakech's historic medina and major landmarks
Program Itinerary
Arrival in Casablanca
On the first day of your 5 Day Morocco Tour, you’ll welcome you upon arrival at the airport or pick you up from your accommodation in Casablanca—Morocco’s largest city and economic center. Your journey begins with a visit to the spectacular Hassan II Mosque, perched on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Its intricate architecture and seaside setting make it one of Casablanca’s most memorable landmarks. After some free time for lunch, you continue exploring the highlights of Casablanca. Depending on your arrival time, the tour may include: The order and number of visits may vary according to your arrival time. Overnight stay at a hotel in Casablanca.
Casablanca – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes
After breakfast, you depart Casablanca to visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with well-preserved mosaics, columns, and arches. Next, you drive to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, where you visit Bab Mansour, the Sahrij Souani basin, the royal granaries, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Afterward, you continue to Fes. If time allows, you can stop for photographs at the Royal Palace gates before dropping you off at your riad for the night.
Fes – Ifrane – Cedar Forest – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Sahara
After breakfast, you drive south through Imouzzer to visit Ifrane, known for its cool climate and alpine-style houses. Next, you continue to the Cedar Forest, where Barbary macaques may be seen. Later, you stop near Midelt for lunch before travelling through the Tizi n’Talghamt pass and along the Ziz Valley, with stops for panoramic views. You reach Merzouga in the afternoon. A 4×4 takes you toward the camp or to the camel departure area if you choose the sunset camel ride. A 4×4 transfer is also available instead of the camel ride. After enjoying the sunset over the dunes, you’ll settle into the camp for dinner, traditional music, and an overnight stay.
Merzouga Sahara – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
Wake up early if you’d like to watch the sunrise over the desert. After breakfast, return to Merzouga, where your driver awaits. Next, you leave for Rissani, the historic trading town of the Tafilalet region. After a stroll through the souk, you continue to Erfoud, where you can visit a fossil workshop. Next, you drive through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad to reach the Todra Gorges. You’ll have time to walk through the gorge and enjoy the scenery, followed by free time for lunch. Next, you continue through Boumalne Dades to the Dades Valley, stopping to see the “Monkey Fingers” rock formations and a panoramic view of the valley. Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Skoura – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech
After breakfast, you continue to Kalaa Magouna and the Rose Valley (Optional Stop at one of the rose cooperatives), next drive through the palm groves of Skoura to Ouarzazate. There, you can visit the film studios before continuing to the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, you cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, stopping for lunch and photographs along the way. Finally, you arrive in Marrakech and drop you off at your accommodation or the airport, according to your booking. If you have a flight on the final day, please share its departure time in advance. This concludes your 5 days in Morocco.
Expedition Media Gallery
A visual glimpse of the spectacular landscapes awaiting you.
Inclusions & Trip Details
What's Included
- Private air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan
- Experienced local driver/guide and private transfers
- Fuel, road tolls and standard vehicle operating costs
- Accommodation in selected riads/hotels as specified in the itinerary
- Breakfasts and included dinners according to the itinerary
- Desert camel trek and access to the desert camp
Not Included
- Lunches and drinks
- Flights and airport services not explicitly listed
- Personal expenses and optional activities
- Tips and gratuities
Interactive Route Map
Explore your complete journey route on this interactive map. Select any destination marker to discover what awaits you on each day.
Route Milestones
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private or shared tour?
This is a private experience: the vehicle, driver, and itinerary are reserved for your group. The route and pace can be adjusted around your travel preferences.
How long is the camel ride, and is there an alternative?
The camel trek usually lasts around 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the camp and the day’s route. A 4×4 transfer can be arranged instead, and ATVs may be available at an additional cost.
Is the desert camp tent private?
The luxury desert camp accommodation described for this itinerary uses private tents with private bathrooms and hot running water, subject to the camp booked.
What type of vehicle is used?
Transportation is provided in a private air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan. For larger groups, a minibus can be arranged. Vehicle type and group capacity are confirmed before travel.
Can you accommodate dietary requirements?
Yes. Share your dietary preferences when booking so the riads, hotels, and desert camp can prepare suitable meals. Vegetarian, vegan, halal, and other common requirements can be discussed in advance.
Is this itinerary suitable for all ages?
Yes, although some days include long drives of up to about 7 hours. Regular stops are planned, and travelers who prefer shorter driving days can request a longer or customized itinerary.
When is the best time to take this tour?
Spring and autumn generally offer comfortable conditions across Morocco. Winter can also be excellent for the southern desert, while mountain areas may be colder; your route can be adapted to the season.
How do I book the tour?
Send an inquiry with your travel dates, group size, preferred accommodation level, and pickup location. The Sahara Star Tours team can then confirm availability and finalize the itinerary before you travel.
