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15-Day Grand Morocco Desert Adventure: Marrakech to Sahara & Imperial Cities

15-Day Grand Morocco Desert Adventure

Discover Ancient Medinas, Atlas Mountains, and Coastal Gems on Morocco’s Ultimate Journey

OVERVIEW

Embark on an extraordinary 15-day expedition through Morocco's most captivating landscapes and cultural treasures. This comprehensive journey weaves together the vibrant energy of imperial cities, the raw beauty of the Sahara Desert, and the enchanting charm of coastal havens, creating an unparalleled exploration of North Africa's most diverse kingdom.

Beginning in the ochre-colored city of Marrakech, you'll traverse the mighty Atlas Mountains before descending into the dramatic Dades Valley and the endless dunes of the Sahara Desert. Experience the magic of sleeping under desert stars, wander through UNESCO World Heritage sites, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Moroccan culture from the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen to the medieval medina of Fez.

Your journey continues along Morocco's stunning Atlantic coast, visiting historic ports and cultural capitals including Tangier, Rabat, and Casablanca. Discover ancient Roman ruins, magnificent mosques, and bustling souks while staying in authentic riads that showcase traditional Moroccan hospitality and architectural brilliance.

This carefully curated itinerary balances cultural immersion with natural wonders, historical exploration with modern comfort, creating a transformative experience that reveals the many faces of Morocco – from its imperial splendor to its Berber heart, coastal charm to desert mystique.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Explore Marrakech’s vibrant souks and historic palaces
  • Cross the High Atlas via Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m)
  • Visit Ait Ben Haddou, UNESCO site and Hollywood filming location
  • Camel trek through Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset
  • Overnight in a luxury Sahara desert camp under the stars
  • Discover Fes’ medieval medina and world’s oldest university
  • Wander the dreamy blue streets of Chefchaouen
  • Explore Roman ruins at Volubilis
  • Experience Rabat’s royal heritage and Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque
  • Relax along Morocco’s Atlantic coast: El Jadida, Oualidia, Safi, and Essaouira

 

DETAILED ITINERARY:

 

Day 1: Marrakech Arrival

Journey Duration: Airport transfer (15–45 min)

Welcome to Morocco! Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, your driver greets you for a private transfer to your traditional riad in the heart of the medina. Settle in and, if time allows, take an evening stroll through Jemaa el-Fna square—alive with music, food, and storytelling.

 

Day 2: Marrakech City Tour

Journey Duration: Full day walking tour

Discover the “Red City” with a licensed guide: Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, Ben Youssef Madrasa, and the Majorelle Garden. Explore artisan souks and enjoy mint tea with panoramic views over the medina.

 

Day 3: Marrakech → Ait Ben Haddou → Ouarzazate → Dades Gorges

Journey Duration: 7–8 hours | Distance: 320 km

Drive over the Tizi n’Tichka Pass into southern Morocco. Visit the UNESCO kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate’s Atlas Film Studios. Continue through the Valley of Roses to the Dades Gorges. Overnight in a guesthouse with valley views.

Day 4: Dades Gorges → Todra Gorges → Merzouga

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

Walk among the towering cliffs of Todra Gorges before heading deep into the Sahara. Arrive in Merzouga by late afternoon, then ride camels into the Erg Chebbi dunes for sunset. Dinner and overnight in a luxury desert camp.

Day 5: Merzouga → Rissani → Ziz Valley → Midelt → Azrou → Ifrane → Fes

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

Witness a Saharan sunrise, visit Khamlia for Gnawa music, and explore Rissani’s souk. Drive north through the Ziz Valley and Middle Atlas. Stop in Azrou to see Barbary macaques and in Ifrane (“Little Switzerland”). Arrive in Fes by evening.

Day 6: Full-Day Fes Medina Tour

Journey Duration: Full day walking tour

Explore Fes el-Bali—the world’s largest car-free urban zone—with visits to Al-Qarawiyyin University, Chouara Tanneries, Bou Inania Madrasa, and Nejjarine Museum. Learn about centuries-old crafts and traditions.

Day 7: Fes → Volubilis → Chefchaouen

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

Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis before ascending into the Rif Mountains. Arrive in Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl,” and wander its cobalt-hued alleys. Sunset views from the Spanish Mosque. Overnight in a blue-washed riad.

Day 8: Chefchaouen Free Day

Journey Duration: Flexible

Enjoy a relaxed morning: photography, shopping for woolens, or hiking in the hills. Optional visit to the Kasbah Museum. Afternoon at leisure in this peaceful mountain town.

Day 9: Chefchaouen → Rabat

Journey Duration: 4–5 hours | Distance: 260 km

Drive to Morocco’s capital. Visit the Oudayas Kasbah, Hassan Tower, and Mohamed V Mausoleum. Enjoy dinner near the Bou Regreg River. Overnight in a central hotel or riad.

Day 10: Rabat → Casablanca

Journey Duration: 1.5 hours | Distance: 90 km

Transfer to Casablanca. Tour the Hassan II Mosque—one of the world’s largest and only partially built over the ocean. Stroll the Corniche or Art Deco downtown. Overnight in Casablanca.

Day 11: Casablanca → El Jadida → Oualidia → Safi

Journey Duration: 3–4 hours | Distance: 180 km

Begin your coastal journey with a visit to El Jadida’s Portuguese Cisterns (UNESCO). Continue to Oualidia for a seafood lunch by the lagoon. End the day in Safi, known for its pottery and Portuguese fortress. Overnight in a historic riad.

Day 12: Safi → Essaouira

Journey Duration: 2.5 hours | Distance: 160 km

Bid farewell to Safi as the journey meanders towards Essaouira, a city with a unique blend of history and coastal charm. With fewer kilometers to traverse, immerse yourself in the relaxed ambiance of Essaouira, once known as Mogador. Stroll through its UNESCO-listed medina, explore Portuguese forts, and savor the coastal breeze. The day unfolds at a leisurely pace, allowing you to soak in the essence of Essaouira. Accommodation in a riad provides a comfortable haven for the night.

Day 13: Essaouira → Marrakech

Journey Duration: 3–4 hours | Distance: 180 km

As the sun paints the sky in hues of dawn, enjoy a relaxed morning in Essaouira. Absorb the last moments of coastal tranquility before the journey back to Marrakech. The road between these two cities offers a scenic route, and upon arrival in Marrakech, settle into your riad. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the vibrant streets, perhaps revisiting familiar landmarks or discovering new corners of the Red City.

Day 14: Exploring Marrakech

Journey Duration: Full day

Now it’s time to dive into the heart of Marrakech’s rich tapestry with a day dedicated to exploration. Begin with the Saadian Tombs, a glimpse into the city’s historical roots. The Bahia Palace, a lavish residence, invites you to wander through its opulent chambers. The Koutoubia Minaret stands as a symbol of Marrakech’s skyline, and the Ben Youssef Madrasa showcases exquisite Islamic architecture. The day crescendos in Jemaa el-Fna, a UNESCO-listed square that transforms from a bustling souk by day to a magical spectacle by night. Immerse yourself in this vibrant plaza, witnessing the cultural mosaic that defines Marrakech. A night in a riad provides a serene conclusion to your Marrakech exploration.

Day 15: Departure from Marrakech to the Airport

Journey Duration: Varies

Your final day in Morocco begins with breakfast in your riad. Revel in some free time, perhaps indulging in last-minute souk discoveries or revisiting favorite spots. The transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport marks the culmination of your 15-day tour through the diverse landscapes and cultural gems of Morocco. Reflect on the myriad experiences—from bustling medinas to coastal havens—as you bid farewell to the enchanting Kingdom of Morocco.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

✓ Private Transportation – Deluxe 4×4 or modern van with AC, fuel, and professional driver
✓ Expert Guides – English/Spanish-speaking driver-guide + licensed local guides in Fes, Marrakech, and key sites
✓ Accommodation – 14 nights in handpicked riads, boutique hotels, and a luxury desert camp
✓ Desert Experience – Camel trek and overnight in a premium Sahara camp with private facilities
✓ Meals – Daily breakfast and 8 dinners (including traditional dinner in the desert)
✓ Transfers – Airport pickup in Marrakech and drop-off on Day 15
✓ Luggage Assistance – Help with bags at all stops
✓ Flexibility – Customizable photo stops and comfort breaks
✓ Dietary Options – Vegetarian and vegan breakfast choices available
✓ 24/7 Support – Local assistance throughout your journey

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

✗ Lunches and Beverages – All lunches and drinks not specified
✗ Entrance Fees – Approx. €80–100 total for monuments, museums, and sites
✗ Personal Expenses – Souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, etc.
✗ Gratuities – Tips for guides, drivers, and staff (at your discretion)
✗ Travel Insurance – Medical and trip cancellation coverage
✗ International Flights – Airfare to/from Morocco
✗ Room Service – Mini-bar, spa, or extra hotel charges
✗ Optional Activities – Sandboarding, cooking classes, or extra 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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