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7-Day Morocco Imperial Cities & Sahara Tour from Marrakech

7-Day Morocco Imperial Cities & Sahara Tour from Marrakech

Discover Morocco’s imperial cities (Marrakech, Fes, Rabat, Meknes) and the Sahara Desert’s golden dunes on this cultural and adventurous journey.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech

Our driver will pick you up from Marrakech Airport and transfer you to your riad/hotel.

  • Explore the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa Square , Koutoubia Mosque , and Bahia Palace .
  • Evening stroll through the Jardin Majorelle .
  • Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 2: Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate

Our driver will pick you up for a scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains .

  • Cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m) and visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou kasbah (film location for Gladiator and Game of Thrones ).
  • Explore Ouarzazate , the "Hollywood of Morocco," and tour Atlas Studios .
  • Overnight in Ouarzazate.
Day 3: Ouarzazate to Sahara Desert (Merzouga)

Our driver will pick you up for a journey through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs .

  • Stop in Skoura Palm Grove and the Dades Valley (known for its dramatic gorges).
  • Arrive in Merzouga for a sunset camel trek into the Sahara Desert.
  • Dinner and Berber music under the stars at a luxury desert camp.
  • Overnight in the Sahara.
Day 4: Sahara Desert to Fes

Our driver will pick you up after breakfast for a drive to Fes.

  • Stop at Rissani Market (ancient trading post) and the Ziz Valley (panoramic palm groves).
  • Traverse the Middle Atlas Mountains and spot Barbary macaques near Azrou .
  • Arrive in Fes , Morocco’s cultural and spiritual capital.
  • Overnight in Fes.
Day 5: Fes Imperial City Tour

Our driver/guide will pick you up for a guided exploration of Fes’s medina (UNESCO World Heritage Site).

  • Visit Al Quaraouiyine University (world’s oldest), Bou Inania Madrasa , and the Chouara Tannery .
  • Explore the Jewish Quarter (Mellah) and Royal Palace gates .
  • Evening free to wander the labyrinthine souks.
  • Overnight in Fes.
Day 7: Rabat to Marrakech via Casablanca

Our driver will pick you up for your return to Marrakech.

  • Stop in Casablanca to view the Hassan II Mosque (exterior) and the Corniche.
  • Arrive in Marrakech for final shopping or relaxation.
  • Transfer to Marrakech Airport for departure.
Day 7: Marrakech to Casablanca

Our driver will pick you up for the transfer to Casablanca Airport.

  • Stop for last-minute photos or shopping en route.
  • Departure flight.
  • Transport: Private air-conditioned 4x4/vehicle with fuel and tolls.
  • Driver: Professional English-speaking driver (10+ years experience).
  • Accommodation: 9 nights in riads/hotels (3*/4*) and 1 night in a luxury desert camp.
  • Meals: Daily breakfasts, dinners in the Sahara camp, and remote areas.
  • Activities:
    • Guided tours in Fes, Volubilis, and Ait Ben Haddou.
    • Camel trek in the Sahara Desert.
    • Berber music/dinner in the desert camp.
     
  • Entrance Fees: Ait Ben Haddou, Volubilis, Fes medina monuments.
  • Flights: International flights to/from Marrakech.
  • Visa Fees: Check requirements for your nationality.
  • Tips: For driver/guides (€5–10/day/person recommended).
  • Travel Insurance: Mandatory for emergencies/cancellations.
  • Optional Activities: Quad biking, dune bashing, or hot-air balloon rides.
  • Lunches: Most lunches are not included (flexible stops for local eateries).
  • Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, extra drinks, etc.

FAQ

1. What makes this an “Imperial Tour”?

  • Focus on Morocco’s four imperial cities: Marrakech (red city), Fes (cultural capital), Rabat (modern capital), and Meknes (Versailles of Morocco).
 

2. How much time is spent in the Sahara?

  • 1 night in the Sahara (Merzouga) with a camel trek and cultural activities.
 

3. Can I skip the Sahara for more city time?

  • Yes! Swap the Sahara with a day trip to Essaouira or Ourika Valley .
 

4. Is the tour physically demanding?

  • Moderate. Includes walking in medinas and short hikes (e.g., camel trek).
 

5. What’s the driving time between cities?

  • Marrakech to Fes: ~8 hours (with stops). Fes to Rabat: ~3 hours.
 

6. Are imperial cities safe for solo travelers?

  • Absolutely! Morocco is safe, and your driver/guide ensures security.
 

7. Can I extend the tour?

  • Yes! Add days in Chefchaouen (Blue City) or Casablanca .