9-Day Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert Tour from Marrakech

9-Day Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert Tour from Marrakech

Discover Morocco’s Imperial Cities, Blue Pearl & Sahara Desert

Embark on an unforgettable 9-day journey through Morocco, where ancient imperial cities, breathtaking mountain landscapes, Roman ruins, and the magnificent Sahara Desert come together to create an extraordinary travel experience.

Beginning in the vibrant city of Marrakech, you’ll discover the rich history, colorful souks, and architectural treasures of Morocco’s famous Red City before traveling north to explore the country’s imperial capitals and cultural landmarks.

Visit Casablanca, Morocco’s economic heart, and admire the spectacular Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most impressive mosques in the world. Continue to Rabat, the nation’s elegant capital, where historic monuments such as Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas showcase Morocco’s royal heritage.

Journey into the Rif Mountains to discover the enchanting blue streets of Chefchaouen before exploring the remarkably preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes. Continue to Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital, where a guided tour reveals one of the world’s oldest medieval medinas, bustling artisan quarters, historic madrasas, the famous Chouara Tannery, and the prestigious University of Al Quaraouiyine.

Travel south through the cedar forests and mountain scenery of the Middle Atlas, passing the alpine town of Ifrane and the oasis landscapes of Midelt and Erfoud before reaching the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga. Experience the magic of the Sahara with a memorable camel trek at sunset, followed by an unforgettable evening in a traditional Berber desert camp beneath a sky illuminated by countless stars.

Your adventure continues through some of Morocco’s most spectacular natural landscapes, including the dramatic Todgha Gorge and the breathtaking Dades Valley, renowned for its towering cliffs, unique rock formations, and ancient kasbahs.

Discover Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara” and Morocco’s famous film capital, before visiting the legendary UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, one of the country’s finest fortified villages. Finally, cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass before returning to Marrakech, completing an unforgettable journey through Morocco’s history, culture, mountains, and desert landscapes.

Tour Highlights

• Explore Marrakech with a guided city tour.
• Visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
• Discover Rabat, Morocco’s elegant capital city.
• Wander through the blue streets of Chefchaouen.
• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Volubilis.
• Visit the Imperial City of Meknes.
• Enjoy a guided cultural tour of Fes Medina.
• Discover the historic University of Al Quaraouiyine.
• Visit the famous Chouara Leather Tannery.
• Travel through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains.
• Stop in Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco.”
• Experience the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes.
• Enjoy a sunset camel trek in the Sahara Desert.
• Spend a magical night in a luxury or standard desert camp.
• Watch the sunrise over the Sahara Desert.
• Explore the dramatic Todgha Gorge.
• Discover the stunning Dades Valley.
• Visit Ouarzazate, Morocco’s renowned cinema city.
• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou.
• Cross the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass.

Day 1 – Arrival in Marrakech

Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, you will be welcomed by your driver and transferred to your accommodation. After check-in, enjoy free time to relax or take your first stroll through the vibrant streets of Marrakech. In the evening, experience the lively atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where storytellers, musicians, food vendors, and street performers bring the city to life.

Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 2 – Guided Tour of Marrakech

Discover the fascinating history and culture of Marrakech with a guided sightseeing tour. Visit the elegant Bahia Palace, admire the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, explore the colorful souks of the ancient medina, and, if desired, visit the beautiful Majorelle Garden. The remainder of the afternoon is free to continue exploring at your own pace.

Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 3 – Marrakech – Casablanca – Rabat

Depart Marrakech for Casablanca, where you’ll visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Continue to Rabat to discover Morocco’s modern capital before checking into your hotel.

Overnight in Rabat.

Day 4 – Rabat – Chefchaouen

Visit Rabat’s most important monuments, including Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the charming Kasbah of the Udayas. Afterwards, travel through northern Morocco to the beautiful blue town of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains.

Overnight in Chefchaouen.

Day 5 – Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

Leave Chefchaouen and visit the ancient Roman city of Volubilis before continuing to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities. Explore Bab Mansour and the historic medina before arriving in Fes.

Overnight in Fes.

Day 6 – Guided Tour of Fes

Spend the day exploring Morocco’s oldest Imperial City with an expert local guide. Visit the University of Al Quaraouiyine, Bou Inania Madrasa, Chouara Tannery, artisan workshops, and the UNESCO-listed Fes el-Bali Medina, one of the world’s largest living medieval cities.

Overnight in Fes.

Day 7 – Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Erfoud – Merzouga

Travel south through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane and Midelt before continuing via Erfoud to Merzouga. Upon arrival, ride camels across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi to your desert camp, where you’ll enjoy dinner, traditional Berber music, and an unforgettable night beneath the stars.

Overnight in a luxury or standard Sahara Desert camp.

Day 8 – Merzouga – Todgha Gorge – Dades Valley

Wake early to witness a spectacular desert sunrise before returning by camel. Continue to the magnificent Todgha Gorge, famous for its towering canyon walls, before travelling through Tinghir to the beautiful Dades Valley.

Overnight in Dades Valley.

Day 9 – Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

Travel through the Valley of Roses to Ouarzazate, where you’ll visit Taourirt Kasbah and the renowned Atlas Film Studios. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou before crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Arrive in Marrakech in the evening, marking the end of your unforgettable Moroccan adventure.