Discover Morocco: 11-Day Imperial Cities and Sahara Desert Tour Starting from Marrakech
Duration
11 days
Tour Type
Overview
Overview
Enjoy this super cool 11-day adventure through the amazing country of Morocco, starting off in the buzzing city of Marrakech. You’ll get to check out all the ancient goodies and shop till you drop in the wild markets here. Then, chill out at the beachy vibe of Essaouira on the coast. Take a ride along the gorgeous Atlantic coast to Casablanca, and don’t miss the royal deal in Rabat and Meknes. Get your history fix at the Roman ruins of Volubilis – talk about a blast from the past!
Next, wander through the insanely blue streets of Chefchaouen – it’s like someone spilled a giant paint bucket! And Fez is a culture fiesta waiting for you with open arms. Get ready to ride camels like a boss in the Sahara Desert and spend a night under the stars – no light pollution here, just pure stargazing.
Finish off with a scenic road trip through the dramatic Dades Valley and the majestic High Atlas Mountains. This trip’s got it all, folks: history, culture, and nature galore. It’s like a buffet of experiences that’ll leave you with memories to cherish forever. So pack your bags and let’s hit the road!
Highlights
- Guided city tour including historical and cultural sites.
- Explore the coastal town’s harbor, beach, and medina.
- Coastal drive with stops at picturesque villages.
- Visit the stunning Hassan II Mosque.
- Discover the capital’s key landmarks.
- Wander through the enchanting blue city.
- Visit ancient Roman ruins and a historic imperial city.
- Guided exploration of the oldest imperial city.
- Camel trek and overnight stay in a luxury desert camp.
- Explore dramatic natural landscapes.
- Visit the famous kasbah and cross the High Atlas Mountains.
Included/Exclude
- Private 4x4 vehicle or minibus with air conditioning
- Fuel included
- English-speaking driver
- Breakfasts and dinners included
- Lunches & drinks.
- Entrance fees to monuments
Tour Plan
Welcome to Marrakech! Upon landing at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), you'll be greeted and transferred to your traditional riad nestled in the heart of the old Medina. Settle into your cozy accommodations and relax. In the afternoon or evening, you might want to take a leisurely stroll through the Medina, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, exploring the bustling alleyways, and perhaps enjoying a mint tea at a local café. Rest well in your comfortable riad, preparing for the exciting journey ahead.
After a delightful breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Marrakech, famously known as the "Red City" due to its terracotta-colored buildings. Your exploration will include visits to the majestic Majorelle Gardens, the towering Koutoubia Mosque, the historic Saadian Tombs, and the opulent Bahia Palace. After lunch near the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa square, you'll have time to wander through the bustling souks, discovering a myriad of colorful goods and local crafts. Spend the night at your riad.
Today, we'll drive to the coastal town of Essaouira, passing through scenic Argan tree forests. Once in Essaouira, you'll have the day to explore its charming harbor, sandy beaches, and the vibrant Medina. Known for its well-preserved 15th-century architecture and local craft shops, Essaouira offers a blend of Portuguese and Moroccan influences. Capture the picturesque blue fishing boats and enjoy the relaxed coastal ambiance. Overnight in a riad.
Departing from Essaouira, we'll follow the scenic coastal route towards Casablanca. Our first stop is in the tranquil fishing village of El Oualidia, set along a beautiful seawater lagoon.
Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch with stunning coastal views. Continue to El Jadida, a former Portuguese colony and UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its fortified medina and underground cisterns. After exploring El Jadida, we proceed to Casablanca for an overnight stay in a riad.
Departing from Essaouira, we'll follow the scenic coastal route towards Casablanca. Our first stop is in the tranquil fishing village of El Oualidia, set along a beautiful seawater lagoon.
Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch with stunning coastal views. Continue to El Jadida, a former Portuguese colony and UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its fortified medina and underground cisterns. After exploring El Jadida, we proceed to Casablanca for an overnight stay in a riad.
Departing from Essaouira, we'll follow the scenic coastal route towards Casablanca. Our first stop is in the tranquil fishing village of El Oualidia, set along a beautiful seawater lagoon.
Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch with stunning coastal views. Continue to El Jadida, a former Portuguese colony and UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its fortified medina and underground cisterns. After exploring El Jadida, we proceed to Casablanca for an overnight stay in a riad.
Spend the day exploring Fez, Morocco's oldest imperial city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your guided tour will take you through the labyrinthine streets of Fez el-Bali, home to Al-Qarawiyyin University, the world's oldest continuously operating educational institution. Visit the stunning Bou Inania Madrasa, the Nejjarine Fountain, and the vibrant tanneries. Conclude the day with a visit to the Merenid Tombs, offering panoramic views of the city. Overnight in your riad.
Embark on a journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Ifrane, known as "Little Switzerland," and the cedar forests of Azrou, home to Barbary apes. Continue through the scenic Ziz Valley to the edge of the Sahara Desert. Arrive in Merzouga and prepare for an unforgettable camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Enjoy a traditional Berber dinner and spend the night in a luxury desert camp under the star-studded sky.
Witness the magical sunrise over the Sahara before riding your camel back to Merzouga. After breakfast, we'll visit the historic town of Rissani, known for its bustling market. Continue to the breathtaking Todra Gorges, where towering cliffs create a stunning natural spectacle. Enjoy a walk through the gorges before heading to the scenic Dades Valley, renowned for its unique rock formations and lush landscapes. Overnight in a kasbah.
Travel through the picturesque Dades Valley, visiting the Rose Valley and the oasis of Skoura, dotted with palm groves and ancient kasbahs. Continue to Ouarzazate, the "Hollywood of Morocco," and explore a film studio. Next, visit the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and filming location for numerous movies. Finally, cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tichka Pass, arriving in Marrakech for an overnight stay in a riad.
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure, marking the end of your incredible Moroccan adventure. Take with you unforgettable memories of imperial cities, dramatic landscapes, and the warm hospitality of Morocco.
