A 14 days tour in the desert and the imperial cities is the ultimate way to experience the breathtaking diversity of Morocco. Beginning on the Atlantic coast, you will journey north to the blue-washed mountains of the Rif, step back in time through all four ancient Imperial Cities (Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakech), and venture deep into the golden dunes of the Sahara. This perfectly paced loop gives you enough time to get lost in medieval medinas, sleep under the desert stars, and relax by the ocean without ever feeling rushed.
Experience the Magic: 14 Days Tour in the Desert and the Imperial Cities
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14 days
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Max 12 people
Small group experience
Experience
Highlights
- The Four Imperial Cities: Dive deep into the majestic architecture and palaces of Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakech.
- The Blue Pearl: Wander through the highly photogenic, indigo-washed alleyways of Chefchaouen.
- Roman Heritage: Walk among the exceptionally preserved ancient mosaics at the Volubilis ruins.
- Sahara Magic: Experience a sunset camel trek and sleep in a luxury desert camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes.
- Canyons & Kasbahs: Hike the towering Todra Gorges and explore the UNESCO-listed mud-brick village of Ait Benhaddou.
- Coastal Charm: Enjoy the laid-back, bohemian atmosphere of the historic port city of Essaouira.
Includes
Included
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Casablanca
- Private A/C vehicle (4x4 or minivan) with fuel
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- 13 nights of accommodation (including 1 night in a desert camp)
- Daily breakfasts and most dinners
- Camel trek in Merzouga (1 camel per person)
Not included
- International flights
- Lunches and midday snacks
- Drinks (water, sodas, alcohol)
- Monument and museum entrance fees
- Tips and personal shopping
- Local city guides in Fes and Marrakech
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Casablanca & Transfer to Rabat
Welcome to Morocco! Your driver will meet you at Mohammed V Airport. After a brief visit to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque on the coast, drive to the capital city, Rabat, to check into your hotel and relax.
Day 2
Rabat to Chefchaouen
Start the morning exploring Rabat's highlights: the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the oceanfront Kasbah of the Udayas. In the afternoon, travel through the rolling hills of the north until you reach the striking blue-washed town of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains.
Day 3
Chefchaouen to Volubilis & Meknes
Spend a relaxed morning photographing Chefchaouen's vibrant alleys. After lunch, head south to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Continue to the nearby Imperial City of Meknes to view the monumental Bab Mansour gate.
Day 4
Meknes to Fes
Enjoy a short, easy drive to Fes, the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco. Spend the afternoon settling into your traditional Riad and taking your first steps into the medieval medina.
Day 5
Fes Guided Sightseeing Tour
A full day dedicated to exploring Fes el-Bali with a local expert. Navigate the thousands of narrow alleys, visit the vibrant Chouara Tannery, see the intricate Al-Attarine Madrasa, and witness artisans working exactly as they have for centuries.
Day 6
Fes to Merzouga Desert
A long but incredibly scenic driving day. Pass through Ifrane (the Switzerland of Morocco), feed wild Barbary macaques in the cedar forests of Azrou, and drive through the dramatic Ziz Valley oasis before arriving at the edge of the Sahara in Merzouga.
Day 7
Desert Exploration & Camel Trek
Explore the desert region in a 4x4. Visit nomad families, listen to traditional Gnawa music in Khamlia village, and explore the old mines. In the late afternoon, mount your camel to ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes for sunset, followed by a campfire dinner and a night under the stars.
Day 8
Merzouga to Todra Gorges & Dades Valley
Wake up early for a spectacular desert sunrise. After breakfast, drive to the Todra Gorges, a massive fault in the limestone rock. Continue along the "Route of a Thousand Kasbahs" to reach the lush Dades Valley for the night.
Day 9
Dades Valley to Ouarzazate
Travel through the fragrant Rose Valley and arrive in Ouarzazate. Visit the Taourirt Kasbah and take an optional tour of the Atlas Film Studios, where cinematic epics like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia were shot.
Day 10
Ouarzazate to Marrakech
Explore the famous UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou in the morning. Then, begin the winding ascent over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260m). Arrive in the bustling city of Marrakech in the late afternoon.
Day 11
Marrakech Guided Tour
Discover the magic of Marrakech with a local guide. Visit the opulent Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the Koutoubia Mosque. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant souks and end your day in the chaotic, beautiful energy of Jemaa el-Fna square.
Day 12
Marrakech to Essaouira
Leave the city heat behind and drive west to the coastal town of Essaouira. You might even spot goats climbing argan trees along the way. Spend the afternoon wandering Essaouira's fortified ramparts, artisan workshops, and breezy harbor.
Day 13
Essaouira to Casablanca
Enjoy a free morning in Essaouira for a final walk on the beach or some relaxed shopping. After lunch, drive north along the Atlantic coast, passing through Safi and El Jadida, before arriving back in Casablanca for your final night.
Day 14
Airport Transfer & Departure
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight time, your driver will transfer you to Mohammed V International Airport, concluding your grand Moroccan odyssey. Bslama!
End of experience
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