Imperial Cities & Sahara Journey: 11 Days
Embark on the ultimate 11-Day Morocco Imperial Cities and Sahara Desert Journey. Roam like royalty through historic capitals, dramatic landscapes, and golden dunes on this luxury Morocco tour.
Imperial Cities & Sahara Journey: 11 Days
This boutique Morocco tour is carefully designed to offer an authentic, deep dive into the country's wonders.
Discover breathtaking architectural sites, majestic palaces, sacred houses of worship, lush gardens, and the vibrant medinas of Fes and Marrakech.
Witness traditional Moroccan craftsmanship by local artisans, explore dazzling marketplaces, savor exquisite Moroccan cuisine, and relax in premium accommodations.
Highlights include visits to women's cooperatives, a ceramics workshop and henna party in Fes, an exotic Moroccan cooking class, sunset camel trekking in the Erg Chebbi dunes, and a magical night at a luxury Sahara desert camp.
You will enjoy world-class hammams and spas, alongside unforgettable cultural encounters led by expert Morocco travel guides.
All overnights feature luxurious riads, boutique hotels, kasbahs, and premium desert camps.
What's Included
- Private Transportation: Modern, air-conditioned minibus or 4x4 vehicle including all fuel and transport fees.
- Professional Staff: Hand-picked, English-speaking driver and expert local guides in major cities.
- Premium Accommodation: High-quality Riads/hotels and a luxury Berber tent experience in the desert.
- Dining: Daily breakfast and 1 dinner in the desert.
- Activities: Guided camel trekking in the desert.
- Taxes: All applicable local taxes and fees.
Not Included
- Luncheons and beverages.
- Travelers insurance
- Gratuities (tips) for drivers and guides.
Your Journey on Map
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – The Gateway to Morocco's Imperial Cities
Welcome to your Morocco vacation. Upon your arrival at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your private driver and transferred to your premium hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a panoramic drive along the scenic Atlantic Corniche or visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, beautifully overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a luxury hotel in Casablanca.
Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat – Royal Palaces and Ancient Ruins
After breakfast, depart for Rabat, the stately and dignified capital of Morocco, beautifully situated along the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of the Bou Regreg Estuary. This historic Imperial City combines modern elegance with deep historical roots. Today's guided sightseeing includes the majestic Royal Palace, the ancient Chellah with its Roman ruins and serene gardens, the iconic Hassan Tower, and the Mohammed V Mausoleum, an outstanding example of Moroccan architecture. You will also explore the magnificent Kasbah of the Oudaias, a masterpiece of Almohad architecture, and stroll along the Andalusian walls bordering the medina. In the evening, your tour manager hosts a welcome cocktail reception followed by dinner. Overnight in a luxury riad or hotel in Rabat.
Day 3: Rabat to Volubilis, Meknes, and Fes – Roman Heritage & Imperial Grandeur
After breakfast, journey inland to the remarkable Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back over 2,000 years, where beautifully preserved mosaics tell the story of ancient Roman Africa. Continue to Moulay Idriss, one of the holiest towns in Morocco, for a traditional lunch. In the afternoon, discover the imperial city of Meknes, the former capital under Sultan Moulay Ismail, surrounded by more than 16 miles of fortified walls. Visit the monumental Bab Mansour gate, the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, and the impressive royal stables and granaries. Later, continue to Fes, the spiritual heart of Morocco. Dinner and overnight in a traditional riad or luxury hotel.
Day 4: Fes Guided Tour – The Heart of Morocco's Medieval Medina
Today is dedicated to a full guided exploration of Fes, the oldest of Morocco's Imperial Cities, founded in 792 A.D. Wander through the sprawling medieval medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest living medieval city. Visit the prestigious Karaouiyine Mosque and University, the oldest continuously operating university in the world, alongside the exquisitely designed Bou Inania and Attarine madrasas. Admire the Nejjarine Fountain, navigate the bustling artisan quarters, and observe traditional Moroccan crafts such as leather tanning at the famous Chouara Tannery. In the afternoon, enjoy a hands-on ceramics workshop followed by a traditional henna party. Dinner and overnight in your authentic riad or hotel in Fes.
Day 5: Fes to the Middle Atlas and Merzouga – Cedar Forests to Sahara Dunes
After breakfast, depart Fes and travel south through the breathtaking Middle Atlas Mountains. Pass through dense cedar forests and the alpine-style town of Ifrane, beautifully referred to as the "Switzerland of Morocco." Continue to Midelt for lunch before following the Ziz River through its lush, palm-filled valley. Stop to photograph the dramatic Ziz Gorges and sweeping panoramic oasis views before arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at a premium hotel near the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes.
Day 6: Merzouga Sahara Desert Exploration – Camel Trek & Luxury Desert Camp
This day is devoted to a deep exploration of the Sahara Desert and the towering golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Discover the nomadic Berber way of life, visit the village of Khamlia to experience the spiritual rhythms of authentic Gnawa music, and explore the ancient ksours of the Tafilalet region and the historic ruins of Sijilmassa, an important ancient caravan trading center. After savoring a traditional local lunch like Medfouna (stuffed Berber pizza), return to the dunes. In the late afternoon, embark on a scenic camel trek across the sands to witness a breathtaking Sahara desert sunset. Spend the night in a luxury desert camp, enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner, sweet mint tea, live Berber music, and spectacular stargazing beneath the vast, unpolluted Sahara sky.
Day 7: Merzouga to Todra Gorge and Skoura Oasis – Spectacular Canyons
Rise early to experience a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime sunrise over the Sahara dunes before returning by camel for breakfast and a refreshing shower. Continue your Morocco journey through the lush, palm-lined valleys of Touroug and Tinjdad to reach the dramatic Todra Gorge, where massive limestone cliffs tower above a narrow, picturesque canyon. After exploring the sheer rock walls of the gorge, travel onward along the Route of a Thousand Kasbahs to the tranquil Skoura Oasis, famous for its extensive palm groves and historic mud-brick kasbahs. Enjoy dinner and overnight in a charming kasbah or boutique hotel.
Day 8: Skoura to Ouarzazate, Ait Ben Haddou, and Marrakech – The Hollywood of Africa
After breakfast, travel through the fragrant Valley of Roses and Skoura's scenic oasis landscapes to Ouarzazate, widely known as the gateway to the Sahara and the "Hollywood of Africa." Visit the famous Atlas Film Studios before continuing to the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, one of Morocco's most iconic and well-preserved fortified mud-brick villages. After fully exploring the ancient kasbah, cross the breathtaking Tizi n'Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains en route to vibrant Marrakech. Arrive in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay in a luxury riad or hotel in Marrakech.
Day 9: Marrakech Guided Tour – Uncovering the Vibrant Red City
Today, you will enjoy a comprehensive private guided tour of Marrakech, the vibrant Red City of Morocco. Explore the bustling, colorful souks, where local artisans work in dedicated quarters crafting intricate metalwork, leather goods, textiles, and silver jewelry. Visit the elegantly decorated Bahia Palace, a true masterpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship, and admire the towering Koutoubia Mosque from its beautiful surrounding gardens. If time allows, stroll through the enchanting, botanical Majorelle Gardens. Later in the day, immerse yourself in local culture by taking part in an exotic, hands-on Moroccan cooking workshop. Overnight in your Marrakech riad.
Marrakech at Leisure – Souks, Spas, and Cultural Discovery
This day is free for you to enjoy Marrakech entirely at your own pace. Choose to deeply relax in a traditional Moroccan hammam and spa, explore hidden riad architecture and charming rooftop cafés, shop for souvenirs in the lively medina souks, or join optional exciting excursions such as a sunrise hot-air balloon ride or a scenic day trip to a High Atlas Mountains Berber village. Conclude your Morocco vacation with a celebratory farewell dinner. Overnight in Marrakech.
Marrakech to Casablanca – Airport Transfer & Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a smooth private transfer to Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport in good time for your international departure flight, bringing this magical Moroccan Imperial Cities and Sahara journey to a memorable close.
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.