12-Day Imperial Cities and Desert Tour

The tour itinerary

Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Morocco with this 12-day tour, which takes you from Marrakech through the imperial cities of Meknes, Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech, as well as the breathtaking Merzouga Desert. This tour is designed for those who wish to deeply explore the traditions, colors, and history of Morocco at a leisurely pace.

Day 1

Marrakech

Upon arrival at Marrakech’s newly renovated airport, you will be greeted by our staff and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2

Marrakech – Ait Benhaddou – Ouarzazate

Depart from Marrakech and cross the Tichka Pass, one of the highest in the Atlas Mountains at 2,260 meters. The journey will take you through a landscape that varies from lunar-like to lush and green. Before reaching Ouarzazate, you will visit the impressive Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic kasbahs in Morocco.

Day 3

Ouarzazate – Dades Gorges – Todra Gorges

Leaving Ouarzazate, travel along the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” which winds through the valley separating the High Atlas from the Anti-Atlas. You’ll take the scenic Boutaghrar track to reach the Dades Gorge. Upon arriving in Tinghir, you will visit the famous Todra Gorge, where the rocky cliffs rise to 250 meters in height.

Day 4

Todra Gorges – Merzouga

Today, you will journey to Erfoud, the gateway to Merzouga, renowned for its towering sand dunes that rise like moving walls at the edge of the desert. The sunrise and sunset here are truly spectacular, making this an unforgettable experience.

Day 5

Merzouga – Erg Chebbi

After a hearty breakfast, visit the villages around the Merzouga oasis, including the Sergie Lake with its pink flamingos, and the village of Khamlia, known for its Gnawa musicians of Malian origin. Return to the hotel for lunch and, after a short rest, embark on a camel trek. You’ll ride to the top of the highest dune to watch the sunset before arriving at your desert camp for the night. Enjoy a traditional dinner, Berber music, and the stunning night sky.

Day 6

Merzouga – Midelt

Return to the hotel by camel, followed by breakfast and a refreshing shower. Then, head north towards Midelt, a mountain town flanked by ancient kasbahs. Situated at 1,500 meters above sea level, Midelt is the main stopover between the High and Middle Atlas mountains.

Day 7

Midelt – Fez

Travel to Fez, passing through the charming towns of Azrou and Ifrane, a popular ski resort in the Middle Atlas, nestled among cedar forests and abundant streams.

Day 8

Fez

Founded in 790 by Moulay Idriss, Fez is Morocco’s religious, intellectual, and artistic capital. Explore the labyrinthine streets of the medina, discovering the ancient Al-Attarine Madrasa, the beautiful Nejjarine Fountain, the Royal Palace with its magnificent golden gate, and the remnants of the Merinid Tombs (13th-14th centuries). End the day with a visit to the tanneries and carpet workshops.

Day 9

Fez – Meknes

Continue your journey to Meknes, stopping at the ancient Roman city of Volubilis and the nearby holy city of Moulay Idriss. Meknes, the city of Sultan Moulay Ismail, is known for its 25 km of walls, vast parade grounds, and grand buildings. Visit El Hedim Square, Bab El Khemis, Bab Mansour (one of Morocco’s most beautiful monumental gates), the Royal Stables, the Mosque, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.

Day 10

Meknes – Rabat

Rabat, Morocco’s serene capital, boasts well-planned urban development. Key landmarks include the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Oudayas Kasbah. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the medina.

Day 11

Rabat – Marrakech

Spend the day exploring Marrakech, the “Pearl of the South.” Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the famous Jemaa El-Fna Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vibrant atmosphere. Explore the souks of the ancient medina, where you’ll find artisans, spice vendors, and more.

Day 12

Marrakech – Airport Transfer

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before being transferred to the airport at the designated time. End of our services.

Included in the tour

Transport (4×4 Toyota, Land Cruiser – minibus).

Guide – Driver with a good knowledge of your language.

Camel excursion and night in a Berber tent.

Breakfasts and dinners

Night in a tented camp with dinner and breakfast

Fuel

Accommodation in riads

Sandboarding

Entrance to Ksar Aït Ben Haddou

Not included in the tour

Airline tickets

Lunches and beverages

Gratuities

Do you have any questions? Let’s get in touch!

If the tour itineraries do not match your needs or interests, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to customize your trip together with you, creating a tailor-made itinerary that perfectly reflects your preferences.

WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT US

Dinner in the desert

5 days

The real Morocco with Morocco Desert Tour! We traveled nearly 1,500 kilometers, and every single one was amazing thanks to our fantastic driver SAID, who was incredibly professional, always kind, and cheerful.

5-day desert tour

3 days

Everything was perfect, with excellent organization. Our driver Lahcen was very knowledgeable, friendly, and always available to help with any issue or request. The desert was magnificent, the camp was beautiful, and the starry sky at night was absolutely breathtaking.

Camel trek

7 days

What a wonderful trip! A meticulously planned tour with top-notch organization from our arrival in Marrakech to our return. Our driver Lahcen was excellent, both in his driving and as a companion—always very helpful and accommodating.