8 days Sahara desert tour and imperial cities from Marrakech

Experience the magic of Morocco on this incredible 8 days Sahara desert tour and imperial cities from Marrakech. This comprehensive tour is designed to immerse you in the country's diverse landscapes and rich culture. As a top-rated private Morocco tour, it combines the breathtaking solitude of the Sahara Desert with the vibrant energy of the Imperial Cities. You’ll journey from the peaks of the High Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, enjoy a memorable camel trek, and discover the timeless wonders of Fes, Meknes, and Rabat.

Your Morocco travel itinerary 8 days begins with a smooth transfer. Upon your arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), a friendly driver will meet you and provide a seamless transfer to your traditional riad located within the historic medina. This is your first taste of the old city's unique atmosphere.

After breakfast, we begin our scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka pass (2260m). We'll pause at stunning panoramic viewpoints to admire the landscape. Our first major stop is the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a famous film location for movies like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia. You'll have time to explore its ancient, labyrinthine alleys. We then travel along the picturesque "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs," passing by the "Valley of Roses," known for its rose products, before arriving at our hotel in the stunning Dades Gorge.

Today’s adventure takes us to the vast Sahara. We'll start by exploring the majestic Todra Gorge, a magnificent canyon with cliffs that rise up to 600m high and are only 10m apart. This is a perfect spot for a leisurely walk. We’ll then continue to Merzouga, where you'll meet your camels for a magical camel trek into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes. As the sun sets, we’ll arrive at a nomadic Berber desert camp. Enjoy a traditional dinner and the peaceful ambiance, gathering around the campfire to listen to Berber drums under a sky filled with stars—a true Sahara desert camp experience.

Wake up early for a spectacular Sahara sunrise from the top of the dunes. After breakfast, we'll ride our camels back to Merzouga. Today, we journey north on this scenic Marrakech to Fes tour. We'll pass through the Ziz Valley with its lush palm groves and drive through the Cedar forest near Azrou, where you might spot some wild Barbary apes swinging from the trees. A brief stop in the charming town of Ifrane, often called the "Switzerland of Morocco," will precede our arrival in the medieval city of Fes.

This day is dedicated to a Fes guided tour with a knowledgeable local. You'll dive into Fes el Bali, the largest and oldest medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a fascinating maze of narrow alleyways. We'll visit the renowned Al-Qarawiyyin University, the world’s oldest continuously operating madrasa, and explore the vibrant souks, traditional tanneries, and historic mosques. This deep dive into the city's history is a key part of our Morocco imperial cities tour.

After breakfast, our road trip continues. We'll visit the imperial city of Meknes, a UNESCO site known for its grand gates like Bab Mansour. We’ll then head to Rabat, the modern capital, where we’ll see the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a stunning architectural masterpiece. Next, we travel to Casablanca to visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque tour, an architectural marvel built partially over the Atlantic Ocean. A professional Morocco private driver will ensure a comfortable journey back to Marrakech.

Spend the day exploring the "Red City" with an expert local guide. Discover the serene and beautiful Majorelle Garden, with its iconic cobalt blue villas, and the historic Bahia Palace, known for its intricate tilework and stunning courtyards. We'll also visit the Saadian Tombs, a beautiful burial site from the 16th century. You'll get lost in the bustling souks and end your day in the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the heart of the city's activity and a UNESCO site itself. This tour provides a true Morocco cultural tour experience.

Enjoy your final Moroccan breakfast before we provide a seamless transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) for your departure. This marks the end of your incredible Sahara desert tour from Marrakech.