13 Day Morocco Luxury Train Tour: Imperial & Sahara
Morocco Luxury Train Tour: Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert If you believe nothing compares to exploring the Imperial Cities of Morocco by rail, this curated journey is for you. We combine the romance of Morocco luxury travel with the convenience of private chauffeurs and expert tour guides.
13 Day Morocco Luxury Train Tour: Imperial & Sahara
Seamless Logistics: Travel by first-class rail between Morocco's major destinations.
VIP Porter Service: Our team handles your luggage at every railway station for a truly effortless, hands-free travel experience.
Private Transfers: A fresh driver greets you at every station for smooth hotel transfers, before transitioning to a dedicated luxury vehicle for your Sahara adventure.
The desert journey from Marrakech to Fez via Merzouga is conducted by a comfortable private vehicle, as railway services are not available on this route.
What's Included
- Dedicated professional licensed tour guide throughout the journey, alongside local historical experts in key cities.
- Premium Accommodations.
- Private chauffeurs and luxury minivan/4x4 transfers.
- First-class train tickets.
- Daily breakfast, plus full dinners in Dades Valley and Merzouga Desert.
- Guided camel trek and 4x4 Erg Chebbi dune excursion.
- Monument entrance fees.
- Authentic Moroccan Hammam and massage.
- Complimentary cold bottled water and fresh coffee during transfers.
- Onboard high-speed Wi-Fi in the private vehicle.
Not Included
- International airfare.
- Lunches, and dinners in main cities (unless specified).
- Tips
- Travel insurance.
Your Journey on Map
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Tangier – Gateway to Africa
Upon arrival at Tangier Airport (TNG) or the seaport, your private chauffeur and guide will escort you to your luxury riad. After refreshing, enjoy a Tangier city tour featuring the Kasbah Museum, the vibrant Medina, Cap Spartel where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, and the legendary Hercules Caves. Stay: Luxury Riad or Hotel in Tangier.
Tangier to Rabat – The Royal Capital
Board the first-class high-speed train to Rabat, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival, your private driver will transfer you to your accommodation. Explore the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the iconic Hassan Tower, and the picturesque Oudaya Kasbah. Stay: Luxury Riad or Hotel in Rabat.
Rabat to Casablanca – The Art Deco Metropolis
Travel by first class rail to Casablanca. Visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Corniche and the Art Deco streets of the City Center. Highlight: A glamorous dinner at Rick’s Café, a landmark inspired by the classic film. Stay: Luxury or Hotel in Casablanca.
Casablanca to Marrakech – The Red City
Take the first-class train south to Marrakech, the most famous of the Imperial Cities. Known for its ancient trade routes and bustling souks (traditional markets), Marrakech is the cultural heart of Morocco. Stay: Luxury Riad or Hotel in Marrakech.
Guided Marrakech City Tour
Discover the "Jewel of the South" with a local expert: Majorelle Garden: Explore the cobalt blue accents and exotic flora. Palaces & History: Visit the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs. Jemaa el-Fnaa: Witness the evening magic of this UNESCO site, filled with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls. Stay: Luxury Riad or Hotel in Marrakech.
Ourika Valley Day Trip
Escape the city for the Atlas Mountains. Visit traditional Berber villages, enjoy a riverside lunch, and hike to the Setti Fatma waterfalls. Stay: Luxury Riad or Hotel in Marrakech.
Marrakech – High Atlas – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
Transition from Rail to Road: Today, meet your dedicated private chauffeur who will be your expert navigator for the magnificent Sahara and mountain stages of your journey. After breakfast, cross the High Atlas Mountains via the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m). Stop to visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, renowned for its role in international films. Continue through Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” and drive along the scenic Road of a Thousand Kasbahs to the Dades Valley. Dinner and overnight at your hotel. Stay: Luxury Hotel or Boutique Kasbah in Dades Valley.
Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert
Depart for the impressive Todra Gorges, a dramatic canyon with towering limestone cliffs. Enjoy a walk along the river before continuing toward the Sahara. Arrive in Merzouga in the afternoon and embark on a camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Watch the sunset before spending the night in a desert camp with dinner, traditional music, and stargazing. Stay: Luxury Desert Camp in Merzouga (Erg Chebbi).
Merzouga Erg Chebbi Desert Experience
Wake early to witness a magical sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, explore the Sahara by 4x4 or camel. Visit Khamlia village to enjoy traditional Gnawa music and meet nomadic families. Optional activities include quad biking, dune buggies, or horse riding. Enjoy a second night in the desert camp. Stay: Luxury Desert Camp in Merzouga (Erg Chebbi).
Merzouga Erg Chebbi to Fes – The Scenic Middle Atlas Route
Leave the desert behind and embark on a picturesque road trip through the scenic Ziz Valley, famous for its lush, sprawling palm groves. Stop in Erfoud, renowned for its ancient fossils, then enjoy a relaxed drive ascending through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Take a refreshing break in Ifrane, often affectionately called “Little Switzerland” for its alpine architecture, before arriving in Fes, the oldest of the Imperial Cities. Fes is the nation’s center for handicraft arts and ancient Islamic scholarship. (Note: For guests preferring to skip the scenic mountain drive, ask us about domestic flight options from Errachidia Airport to streamline your journey). Stay: Luxury Riad or Hotel in Fes.
Fes Old Town – Step Back in Time
Explore the world’s largest car-free urban zone, Fes Medina (UNESCO). Sites: The Royal Palace, the Jewish Quarter (Mellah), and the Al-Attarine Madrasa. The Tanneries: View the medieval leather dyeing process from overlooking balconies. Stay: Luxury Riad or Hotel in Fes.
Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes
Enjoy a private excursion to the ancient Roman Ruins of Volubilis, the holy hilltop town of Moulay Idriss, and the Imperial City of Meknes, famous for the magnificent Bab Mansour gate. Ultimate Relaxation: Conclude your day of historical exploration with a premium, authentic Moroccan Hammam and massage at a luxury spa, rejuvenating your body and mind before your departure. Stay: Luxury Riad or Hotel in Fes
Fes to Tangier – Farewell
Return to Tangier via first-class rail for a "Farewell to Morocco" dinner before your departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for families with kids?
Yes! We can adjust the driving hours and include kid-friendly activities. The 4x4 ride in the desert is usually the highlight for children.
What is the best time of year for this trip?
The best time is from September to May. Summers (June-August) can be very hot in the Sahara, but we can arrange luxury AC transportation and hotels with pools.
Do I need a Visa for Morocco?
Citizens from the US, UK, Canada, and EU countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Please check your specific embassy requirements.
Can I customize the hotels?
Absolutely. We offer Standard, Luxury, and VIP packages. Let us know your preference, and we will book the best Riads tailored to your taste.