11-Day Morocco Imperial Cities, Chefchaouen & Sahara Desert Tour
Experience the definitive Morocco desert road trip with this masterfully designed 11-day Morocco imperial cities itinerary. Journey from the coastal highlights of Casablanca and Rabat to the blue-hued streets of Chefchaouen, down through ancient Roman ruins, into the Erg Chebbi sand dunes of the Merzouga Sahara Desert, and finally over the Atlas Mountains to Marrakech and the Atlantic coast of Essaouira. Daily breakfast is provided at all boutique accommodations, while authentic Moroccan dinners are included exclusively during your stays in the Sahara Desert (2 nights) and the Dades Valley (1 night).
Duration
11 Days
Group Size
6 – 16 people
Languages
English
Activity Level
Easy to Moderate
Availability
Year-round
Tour Overview
Experience the definitive Morocco desert road trip with this masterfully designed 11-day Morocco imperial cities itinerary. Journey from the coastal highlights of Casablanca and Rabat to the blue-hued streets of Chefchaouen, down through ancient Roman ruins, into the Erg Chebbi sand dunes of the Merzouga Sahara Desert, and finally over the Atlas Mountains to Marrakech and the Atlantic coast of Essaouira. Daily breakfast is provided at all boutique accommodations, while authentic Moroccan dinners are included exclusively during your stays in the Sahara Desert (2 nights) and the Dades Valley (1 night).
From towering sand dunes and ancient kasbahs to starlit nights in a traditional desert camp, every moment of this tour is designed to connect you with the raw beauty and rich culture of the Sahara. Whether you ride a camel at sunset, share mint tea with a Berber family, or wake up to the silence of the desert at dawn — this is an experience that stays with you for life.
Itinerary
Day 1: Casablanca Airport Pick-up to Imperial Rabat
Your private driver meets you directly at Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) or your hotel in Casablanca to begin your premium Morocco private tour. You will drive along the Atlantic coast to the imperial capital of Rabat to explore the coastal Kasbah of the Udayas (Oudayas), famous for its blue-and-white alleys, and marvel at the historic Hassan Tower. After exploring the capital city, check into your boutique riad for a relaxing evening.
Overnight: Ryad Zyo or Riad Kalaa (Breakfast Included)
Day 2: Rabat to the Blue City of Chefchaouen
Depart Rabat after breakfast and head deep into the scenic Rif Mountains to arrive at the world-famous blue city of Chefchaouen. Spend your afternoon wandering through the magical, color-washed lanes, taking photos of the vibrant blue doorways, and relaxing at a local café in Outa el-Hammam square before settling into your boutique lodging for the evening.
Overnight: Riad Dar Echchaouen or Riad Cherifa (Breakfast Included)
Day 3: Chefchaouen to Volubilis, Imperial Meknes, and Fes
Depart the blue city after breakfast and travel south toward the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can walk through remarkably preserved mosaics and grand arches. Afterward, continue to the neighboring imperial city of Meknes to marvel at the monumental Bab Mansour gate and the historic Lahdim Square. In the late afternoon, make the short drive to the spiritual capital of Morocco, Fes, to check into your luxury Moroccan riad.
Overnight: Riad Fes Mahal or La Perle de La Medina (Breakfast Included)
Day 4: Guided Fes Medina Sightseeing Tour
Meet your local expert guide for an immersive dive into Fes el-Bali, the largest living medieval medina in the world. You will wander the labyrinthine souks, witness the ancient art of leather making at the historic Chouara Tanneries, and visit the architectural marvels of the Bou Inania Madrasa and Al-Qarawiyyin University. Afterward, you can relax and enjoy a free evening in the same boutique accommodation, spending your second night in the cultural heart of Morocco before your upcoming trip to the great desert.
Overnight: Riad Fes Mahal or La Perle de La Medina (Breakfast Included)
Day 5: Fes to Azrou Barbary Apes and Merzouga Sahara Desert
Depart Fes and travel south through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping first in the scenic alpine cedar forests of Azrou to see the wild Barbary apes in their natural habitat. Your scenic drive continues through the High Atlas foothills and along the dramatic Ziz Valley oasis as the landscape transitions into the rolling, golden Erg Chebbi dunes. Upon arriving at the gateway of the African Sahara in Merzouga, you will start your bucket-list Sahara desert camel trek across the high sand waves to reach your luxury desert glamping site just in time for a traditional dinner, followed by an authentic Berber music show around the campfire under a canopy of brilliant desert stars.
Overnight: Tiziri Camp or Sahara Eden Camp (Breakfast & Dinner Included)
Day 6: Sahara Desert Excursion and Nomadic Culture
Wake up early for a magical, panoramic Sahara desert sunrise over the high dunes, followed by breakfast at the camp before boarding a 4x4 for an off-road Sahara desert excursion. You will travel across the rugged desert plains to visit a remote settlement, experience authentic hospitality, and share mint tea with local nomads who preserve centuries-old traditions. Afterward, head to the vibrant village of Khamlia to listen to spiritual Gnawa music performances before concluding the day's adventure with a stop at the seasonal flamingo lake (Dayet Srji) to witness wildlife in the arid landscape. Return to your camp for another night of stargazing in the peaceful isolation of the desert.
Overnight: Tiziri Camp or Sahara Eden Camp (Breakfast & Dinner Included)
Day 7: Merzouga Desert Sunrise to Todra Gorges and Dades Valley
Wake up early for another spectacular sunrise over the golden sand waves before enjoying breakfast at the camp. Leave the vast desert dunes behind and drive toward the jaw-dropping Todra Gorges where you can walk through the massive 300-meter-high limestone canyon walls, a hotspot for rock climbers and nature lovers. Afterward, continue along the iconic "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs" into the dramatic, winding landscapes of the Dades Gorge, where you will unwind and enjoy a tranquil dinner tucked away in the valley.
Overnight: Dades Paradise or Dar Blues (Breakfast & Dinner Included)
Day 8: Dades Valley to High Atlas Mountains and Marrakech
Depart the valley and cross the rugged High Atlas Mountains via the famous Tizi n'Tichka mountain pass at an altitude of 2,260m, offering panoramic views of traditional Berber villages and ancient kasbahs. You will then descend into the vibrant "Red City" of Marrakech to check into your boutique riad and spend your evening exploring the electric energy of Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Dinner is at your leisure tonight, perfect for experiencing Marrakech's world-class culinary and night-market scene.
Overnight: Riad Nessma and Spa or Riad Touda BB (Breakfast Included)
Day 9: Marrakech Sightseeing Tour
Enjoy a guided Marrakech city tour after breakfast to discover architectural marvels such as the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, the Koutoubia Mosque, and the vibrant, colorful artisan souks. After the tour, enjoy a free afternoon to explore the modern Gueliz district, visit the Majorelle Garden, or relax at your boutique riad spa before spending another evening in the Red City.
Overnight: Riad Nessma and Spa or Riad Touda BB (Breakfast Included)
Day 10: Marrakech to the Atlantic Coast of Essaouira
Leave Marrakech behind after breakfast and drive west toward the Atlantic coast to the charming, fortified beach town of Essaouira. Known for its relaxed artistic vibe, you can spend your day exploring the white-and-blue painted medina, walking along the historic sea-facing ramparts, and savoring freshly caught seafood at the bustling local port. Settle into a boutique coastal riad for your final evening.
Overnight: Riad Mimouna or Riad Malaika (Breakfast Included)
Day 11: Departure Transfer to Marrakech or Casablanca Airport (CMN)
Savor your final breakfast by the ocean before completing your journey. Depending on your flight schedule, your driver will provide a private, seamless transfer directly to either Marrakech Airport (RAK) or Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) for your departure home, bringing your unforgettable 11-day Morocco imperial cities and Sahara desert tour to an official conclusion.
Practical Information
Meeting Point
Your hotel lobby in Casablanca, typically at 7:00 – 8:00 AM. Exact time confirmed upon booking.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 14 days before departure. 50% refund between 7–14 days. No refund within 7 days of departure.
What to Bring
- • Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- • High-SPF sunscreen & sunglasses
- • Warm layer for cool desert nights
- • Water bottle (1.5L minimum per day)
- • Headscarf or hat for sun protection
Physical Requirements
Suitable for most fitness levels. Light walking and camel riding involved. No prior experience needed. Not recommended for serious mobility difficulties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for first-time desert travelers?
What type of accommodation is used?
Are meals included in the tour?
How do I get to the departure city?
What is the best time of year to visit the Sahara?
From
€1846
per person · double room
Price Per Person (EUR)
All prices per person in euros · includes taxes
Free cancellation · 14 days notice
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