Imperial Cities & Sahara Journey: 11 Days
On this Imperial Cities and Sahara Journey, you will roam like royalty through Morocco's most legendary landscapes and historic capitals.
Imperial Cities & Sahara Journey: 11 Days
You will witness traditional Moroccan crafts being created by local artisans, explore dazzling marketplaces, enjoy exquisite Moroccan cuisine, and relax in elegant accommodations. Included in the itinerary are visits to women's cooperatives, a ceramics workshop and henna party in Fes, an exotic Moroccan cooking workshop, camel trekking in the Erg Chebbi dunes, luxury desert camping, hammams and spas, and many unforgettable cultural encounters, all guided by Morocco travel experts. All overnights are in luxurious riads, boutique hotels, kasbahs, and desert camps.
Your Experience: Our journeys are designed with your comfort in mind. You will have the flexibility to stop at your leisure for photographs, sightseeing, or rest breaks. We offer a choice of accommodations, ranging from boutique Riads to luxury desert camps or traditional Berber tents, tailored to your preference.
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.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Casablanca
Upon your arrival at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your driver and transferred to your hotel. Depending on arrival time, you may enjoy a panoramic drive along the Corniche or visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Dinner and overnight in a luxury hotel in Casablanca.
Casablanca to Rabat
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. Rabat has been settled since ancient times and combines modern elegance with deep historical roots. Today's sightseeing includes the Royal Palace and its impressive surroundings, the ancient Chellah with its Roman ruins and serene gardens, the Hassan Tower, the unfinished minaret of a grand 12th-century mosque, and the Mohammed V Mausoleum, an outstanding example of Moroccan architecture. You will also visit the magnificent Kasbah of the Oudaias, with its monumental fortified gateway, one of the masterpieces of Almohad architecture, and stroll along the Andalusian walls bordering the medina. In the evening, your tour manager hosts a cocktail reception followed by dinner. Overnight in a riad or hotel in Rabat.
Rabat to Volubilis – Meknes – Fes
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 and arches tell the story of ancient Roman Africa. Continue to Moulay Idriss, one of the holiest towns in Morocco, for lunch. In the afternoon, discover the imperial city of Meknes, once the capital under Sultan Moulay Ismail, surrounded by more than 16 miles of fortified walls. You will visit the monumental Bab Mansour gate, the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, and the impressive royal stables and granaries. Later, continue to Fes. Dinner and overnight in a traditional riad or hotel.
Fes Guided Tour
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 medieval medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest living medieval city. Visit the Karaouiyine Mosque and University, the oldest continuously operating university in the world, as well as the Bou Inania and Attarine madrasas, renowned for their exquisite Islamic architecture. Admire the Nejjarine Fountain, explore artisan quarters, and observe traditional crafts such as leather tanning and metalwork. In the afternoon, enjoy a hands-on ceramics workshop followed by a traditional henna party. Dinner and overnight in your riad or hotel in Fes.
Fes to Middle Atlas – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
After breakfast, depart Fes and travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing cedar forests and the alpine-style town of Ifrane, often 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 admire the dramatic Ziz Gorges and panoramic oasis views before arriving in Merzouga, on the edge of the Sahara Desert. Dinner and overnight at a hotel near the dunes.
Merzouga Desert Exploration and Camel Trek
This day is devoted to exploring the wonders of the Sahara and the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi. Discover the nomadic way of life, visit the village of Khamlia to enjoy the spiritual rhythms of Gnawa music, and explore the ancient ksours of the Tafilalet region and the ruins of Sijilmassa, once an important caravan trading center. After a traditional local lunch, such as Medfouna (Berber pizza), return to the dunes. In the late afternoon, embark on a camel trek across the golden sands to witness a breathtaking desert sunset. Spend the night in a luxury desert camp, enjoying a traditional dinner, mint tea, Berber music, and stargazing beneath the vast Sahara sky.
Merzouga to Todra Gorge to Skoura Oasis
Rise early to watch the spectacular sunrise over the dunes before returning by camel for breakfast and a shower. Continue your journey through the palm-lined valleys of Touroug and Tinjdad to reach the dramatic Todra Gorge, where sheer limestone cliffs tower above a narrow canyon. After exploring the gorge, travel onward to the tranquil Skoura Oasis, famous for its palm groves and historic kasbahs. Dinner and overnight in a charming kasbah or boutique hotel.
Skoura to Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech
After breakfast, travel through the Valley of Roses and Skoura's oasis landscapes to Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the Sahara and the "Hollywood of Africa." Visit the famous film studios before continuing to the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, one of Morocco's most iconic fortified villages. After exploring the kasbah, cross the spectacular Tizi n'Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains en route to Marrakech. Arrival in the evening. Dinner and overnight in a riad or hotel in Marrakech.
Marrakech Guided Tour
Today you will enjoy a complete private guided tour of Marrakech, the vibrant Red City. Explore the bustling souks, where artisans work in dedicated quarters such as metalwork, leather, textiles, and silver. Visit the elegant Bahia Palace, built as a masterpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship, and admire the Koutoubia Mosque from the outside. If time allows, stroll through the enchanting Majorelle Gardens. Later, take part in an exotic Moroccan cooking workshop. Overnight in Marrakech.
Marrakech at Leisure
This day is free to enjoy Marrakech at your own pace. Relax in a traditional hammam and spa, explore hidden riads and rooftop cafés, shop in the souks, or join optional excursions such as a hot-air balloon ride or an Atlas Mountains village visit. Farewell dinner and overnight in Marrakech.
Marrakech to Casablanca
After breakfast, transfer to Casablanca Mohammed V Airport in good time for your international departure, bringing this magical Moroccan 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.