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10-Day Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert Adventure from Marrakech

10-Day Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert Adventure

Discover Morocco’s Cultural Heritage, Ancient Medinas, and Golden Dunes

OVERVIEW

Embark on an extraordinary 10-day journey through Morocco's most captivating destinations, from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. This carefully crafted tour combines the grandeur of Morocco's Imperial Cities with the raw beauty of its natural landscapes, offering an immersive experience that captures the essence of this fascinating North African kingdom.

Begin your adventure in the magical city of Marrakech, before heading northward to explore the modern sophistication of Casablanca and the regal capital of Rabat. Journey into the stunning Rif Mountains to discover Chefchaouen's mesmerizing blue-washed streets, then delve into the cultural richness of Fes, Morocco's oldest imperial city. As you traverse the Middle Atlas Mountains, witness the dramatic transformation of landscapes from cedar forests to desert oases.

The journey reaches its crescendo in the Sahara Desert, where you'll experience the timeless magic of camel trekking across golden dunes and sleeping under a canopy of stars in a luxury desert camp. Your return journey takes you through the dramatic Todgha Gorges, the fertile Dades Valley, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, showcasing Morocco's diverse geological wonders and architectural marvels.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Explore Marrakech’s vibrant medina, palaces, and Jemaa el-Fna square
  • Visit Casablanca’s iconic Hassan II Mosque and cosmopolitan boulevards
  • Discover Rabat’s royal heritage: Hassan Tower and Oudayas Kasbah
  • Wander the dreamy blue-washed alleys of Chefchaouen
  • Uncover Fes’ medieval soul: tanneries, madrasas, and world’s oldest university
  • Ride camels into the golden Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset
  • Overnight in a luxury Sahara desert camp under starlit skies
  • Marvel at Todra Gorges’ 300-meter canyon walls and Dades Valley rock formations
  • Explore UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou and cross the High Atlas via Tizi n’Tichka Pass
  • Experience Rose Valley fragrances and Skoura Oasis palm groves
  • Seamless airport transfers and expert-guided cultural immersion throughout

 

DETAILED ITINERARY:

Day 1: Marrakech Arrival

Journey Duration: Airport transfer (15–45 min)

As you step off the plane at Marrakech Menara Airport, a friendly English-speaking driver awaits, ready to usher you into the heart of this vibrant city. If your arrival permits a morning start, your driver will whisk you away to explore Marrakech’s best attractions. Wander through the captivating streets and, by evening, retire to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest. Whether you’re greeted by the bustling energy of the Medina or the tranquility of your riad, the essence of Marrakech welcomes you.

Day 2: Marrakech – Guided City Tour

Journey Duration: Full day walking tour

Dive deep into the cultural richness of Marrakech with a guided tour through the historic old town. Known as the ‘Jewel of Morocco’ or the ‘Pearl of the South,’ Marrakech unfolds its treasures. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, and the Ben Youssef Madrasa. After a delectable lunch, continue your exploration of Jemaa el-Fna Square and the vibrant Medina, followed by a visit to the enchanting Jardin Majorelle. Each corner reveals the city’s history and artistic charm, leaving you captivated by Marrakech’s multifaceted allure.

Day 3: Marrakech → Casablanca

Journey Duration: 3–4 hours | Distance: 240 km

Start a quick drive on a road trip from Marrakech to the cosmopolitan hub of Casablanca. As you stroll through Casablanca’s main streets, absorb the unique blend of old and new. Begin with the Hassan II Mosque—the largest in Morocco and one of the few open to non-Muslims. Explore iconic sites like Boulevard Mohamed V, Place des Nations-Unies, Parc de la Ligue Arabe, and the historic Medina. An unforgettable experience awaits at ‘Rick’s Café,’ offering a cinematic atmosphere reminiscent of the classic movie ‘Casablanca.’ Indulge in a romantic dinner amid exquisite art, enveloped in the ambiance of this iconic locale.

Day 4: Casablanca → Rabat → Chefchaouen

Journey Duration: 5–6 hours | Distance: 260 km

Venture on a morning journey from Casablanca to the enchanting Blue City, Chefchaouen. The route takes you through Rabat, Morocco’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore key attractions such as the Hassan Tower, the Great Mosque, the Mohammed V Mausoleum, and the Oudayas Kasbah. After a delightful lunch, traverse the scenic landscapes of the Rif Mountains on your way to Chefchaouen. Nestled in a riad/hotel, the evening unfolds against the backdrop of this captivating Blue City.

Day 5: Chefchaouen → Volubilis → Fes

Journey Duration: 5–6 hours | Distance: 220 km

Seize the morning to bask in the serenity of the Blue City, exploring its azure streets and landmarks like Plaza Uta Hammam and the Medina. Depart for Fes, passing through the Roman Ruins of Volubilis. Marvel at the historical remnants of Volubilis, an ancient city inhabited since the Neolithic period. Accompanied by a local guide, delve into the houses of Orpheus and Dionysus. After lunch, continue the journey to Fes, where a riad in the old Medina awaits to immerse you in the city’s vibrant ambiance.

Day 6: Fes – Full-Day Exploration

Journey Duration: Full day walking tour

Dedicate the entire day to unraveling the treasures of Fes, the oldest Imperial City. Explore the Royal Palace gates, Mellah (Jewish Quarter), Blue Gate (Bab Bou Jeloud), and the captivating Fes El Bali. Visit the Andalusian Quarter, Andalusian Mosque, and Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque—home to the world’s oldest university (founded 859 AD). Witness the tanneries in action, discovering the art of leather production. Following lunch, your driver awaits outside the Medina to lead you to panoramic viewpoints, offering stunning vistas of Fes. Conclude the day back at your riad, enriched by the cultural tapestry of Fes.

Day 7: Fes → Ifrane → Middle Atlas → Merzouga Sahara Desert

Journey Duration: 8–9 hours | Distance: 480 km

On the 7th day of your Marrakech desert tour, start an adventure from Fes to the mesmerizing Merzouga Sahara Desert. Traverse the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing Ifrane (“Little Switzerland”) and Azrou—where you may spot wild Barbary macaques. Stop for lunch in Midelt, then cross the Ziz Valley, witnessing palm groves and fortified kasbahs en route to Erfoud and Merzouga. Experience a camel ride to witness the sunset over the Erg Chebbi dunes, culminating in a night at a luxury Sahara Desert camp. Enjoy a traditional tagine dinner, Berber music, and the celestial display of stars.

Day 8: Merzouga → Tinghir → Todra Gorge → Dades Valley

Journey Duration: 6–7 hours | Distance: 300 km

Awaken to the magical sunrise over the Merzouga Desert, riding a camel back to the hotel. Your journey continues through picturesque scenes, including Tinghir’s oasis, Todra Canyons, and Berber villages. Lunch amidst the breathtaking landscapes precedes the exploration of fortified kasbahs in Dades Valley. Check into your hotel in Dades Gorges, immersing yourself in the enchanting surroundings.

Day 9: Dades Gorges → Rose Valley → Skoura → Ait Ben Haddou → Marrakech

Journey Duration: 7–8 hours | Distance: 380 km

Take a picturesque drive from Dades Valley, visiting a rosewater cooperative in Kalaat M’Gouna (seasonal April–May). Continue through the Skoura Oasis to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a cinematic marvel featured in “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones.” After lunch and exploration, journey through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m). Marvel at timeless Berber villages before arriving in Marrakech in the late afternoon.

Day 10: Transfer to the Airport in Marrakech

Journey Duration: Varies

Depending on your flight schedule, your driver ensures a timely transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport, marking the end of your remarkable 10-day Moroccan journey through imperial cities, blue mountains, and golden desert dunes.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

✓ Private Transportation – Deluxe 4×4 or modern van with air conditioning and fuel
✓ Professional Guide – English/Spanish-speaking driver-guide + licensed local guides in key cities
✓ Premium Accommodation – 9 nights in handpicked riads, hotels, and a luxury desert camp
✓ Desert Experience – Camel trek and overnight in a fully equipped Sahara camp with private facilities
✓ Meals – Daily breakfast and 6 dinners (including traditional dinner in the desert)
✓ Transfers – Airport pickup in Marrakech and drop-off on Day 10
✓ Cultural Visits – Guided tours in Marrakech, Fes, Volubilis, and key historical sites
✓ Comfort – Air-conditioned rooms/suites with private bathrooms throughout
✓ Dietary Options – Vegetarian and vegan breakfast choices available upon request
✓ Luggage Assistance – Help with bags at all accommodations
✓ Flexible Timing – Customizable photo stops and comfort breaks

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

✗ Lunches and Beverages – All lunches and drinks not specified in the itinerary
✗ Entrance Fees – Approx. €60–75 total for monuments, museums, and sites (e.g., Ait Ben Haddou, Volubilis, tanneries)
✗ Personal Expenses – Souvenirs, shopping, laundry, phone calls
✗ Gratuities – Tips for guides, drivers, and camp staff (recommended but discretionary)
✗ Travel Insurance – Medical and trip cancellation coverage (strongly advised)
✗ International Flights – Airfare to Marrakech and from Marrakech
✗ Room Service – Mini-bar, spa treatments, or extra hotel charges
✗ Optional Activities – Sandboarding, cooking classes, or additional excursions

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At Sahara Trip Morocco, we don’t just show you Morocco—we invite you to live it. Based in the heart of the country and founded by locals who call this land home, we craft personalized, immersive travel experiences that go far beyond the ordinary. From the bustling souks of Marrakech More

 

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