Visit the Hassan II Mosque for a guided tour of one of the world’s largest mosques — impressive architecture and seaside setting make it a must-see; book a guided slot to enter. Typical guided tours run roughly 9:00am–4:00pm (check daily schedule).
Classic Casablanca experience in a restored colonial-style restaurant inspired by the film—good for a relaxed first Moroccan meal. Open for lunch from midday; reservations recommended.
Take the ONCF train (approx 2h45) or a private transfer to Marrakesh; trains are reliable and comfortable, private car is faster door-to-door depending on traffic. Trains depart Casa-Voyageurs regularly; book in advance for best seats.
Arrive at your riad in the medina, settle in and prepare for an evening in Jemaa el-Fnaa. Many riads welcome late check-ins but confirm times in advance.
Experience the square at dusk as food stalls come alive — head to a popular rooftop for mint tea and views. The square is lively from sunset until late evening.
Sample local grilled meats, harira and tagine at a reputable stall in the square or choose a medina rooftop for a more comfortable meal. Food stall prices vary; pick busy stalls for freshness.
Traditional Moroccan breakfast with mint tea, breads and local preserves to set you up for a full day of sightseeing; riads typically serve from early morning. Confirm breakfast time the night before.
Visit the iconic cobalt-blue garden and the adjacent Yves Saint Laurent museum — buy timed tickets in advance to avoid queues. Gardens usually open from 8:00am; allow 1–1.5 hours.
Wander the souks (leather, spices, lamps) and stroll the Koutoubia gardens for a calmer interlude; souks stay open well into the evening though individual stall hours vary.
Book a traditional hammam and massage to recharge; many riads and local spas run sessions into the evening (book ahead). Expect 1.5–2.5 hours depending on treatment.
Atmospheric rooftop dining mixing Moroccan and international cuisine — excellent for a comfortable medina evening. Open evenings from around 18:30; book for prime times.
Depart very early for a domestic flight to Fes (flight time ~1h10m) to save time — flights are quicker than the long overland route. Flights start early; book in advance.
Arrive Fes-Saïs airport and take a short guided orientation tour: exterior views of the medina, tanneries from a terrace and the Karaouine area; the medina is best explored with a local guide. Tannery terraces and viewpoints are usually open from morning.
Take a private transfer or bus north to Chefchaouen (approx 3.5–4.5 hours by road) — a scenic mountain drive; private car is faster and more flexible. Depart mid-morning to arrive by mid-afternoon.
Wander the photogenic blue-washed streets, Plaza Uta el-Hammam and local artisan shops — a relaxing, colourful town perfect for strolling. Open all day; shops may close for a short midday break in smaller stalls.
Head to a rooftop café or the Ras El Maa waterfall viewpoint for sunset photos over the blue town. Sunset times vary by date; rooftops are open into the evening.
Enjoy local mountain cuisine (tagines, fresh salads) at a medina restaurant — relaxed dining with local hospitality. Restaurants generally open evenings from 19:00.
Depart early from Chefchaouen for Fes to break up the journey toward the southeast — expect about 4 hours to Fes. Stops for coffee and brief breaks en route are normal.
Grab a brisk lunch in Fes and prepare for the long drive toward the desert; stock water and snacks for the route. Plan a short midday break before the long drive.
Drive southeast toward Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) — a long but spectacular route (approx 7–8 hours), passing Midelt and the Ziz Valley; this is a full travel afternoon, arrive at the desert camp for sunset. A private driver or organised transfer is recommended for comfort.
Arrive at Merzouga, mount camels for a short sunset trek across the dunes and reach your nomad-style camp — dinner and a bonfire follow with Berber music. Camel treks usually start late afternoon to catch sunset; camp stays include dinner and overnight.
Sleep in a comfortable traditional-style or upgraded desert tent under the stars — a highlight experience for many travellers. Camp facilities vary; some offer private ensuite tents at higher cost.
Wake early for sunrise over the dunes — then ride camels or 4x4 back to the staging village for breakfast; sunrise is magical and worth the early start. Activities begin before dawn and finish mid-morning.
After breakfast, begin the long westward drive toward Casablanca (approx 8–9 hours) or arrange an internal flight from Errachidia or Rissani airports where feasible; this is a full travel day. Flights shorten travel but require prior booking and transfers to local airports.
Arrive back in Casablanca in the early evening; if time/energy allow, take a short seaside stroll on the corniche or enjoy a relaxed dinner. Evening options depend on arrival time and fatigue after a long drive.
Celebrate the trip with a relaxed dinner at a seaside restaurant or in the city centre — lighter end to a busy 5 days and a chance to reflect on varied Moroccan landscapes. Restaurants are open into the evening; book if needed.