This immersive 8-day tour is a grand circuit through the soul of Morocco, connecting its legendary imperial cities with the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert. You will explore the bustling souks of Marrakech, cross the dramatic High Atlas Mountains, stand in the depths of mighty canyons, and experience the magic of a night under the stars in a Berber desert camp.The journey continues through the Middle Atlas to the ancient cities of Fes and Meknes, culminating with the coastal capital of Rabat and modern Casablanca. This carefully paced itinerary balances scenic drives, profound cultural encounters, and historic discovery for a complete Moroccan adventure.
We carefully select your accommodations to provide comfort and authentic experiences, ranging from city hotels to a unique night in the desert.
Nights 1, 2, 6 & 7: City Hotels (Marrakech, Ouarzazate, Fes, Rabat) You will stay in comfortable, well-located hotels or charming riads. Specifically, your room will be private with its own bathroom. For instance, in Marrakech and Fes, you will typically stay in a traditional riad within the medina for an authentic experience. Furthermore, breakfast is included daily.
Night 3: Dades Gorge You will stay in a distinctive cliffside kasbah hotel in the Dades Gorge. Consequently, dinner and breakfast are included, allowing you to relax and enjoy the dramatic scenery.
Night 4: Merzouga Desert The highlight of your trip is spending a night in a desert camp at the foot of the Erg Chebbi dunes. For example, your tent will feature a comfortable bed, warm blankets, and traditional decor. Afterward, the camp serves a hearty dinner, followed by Berber music around a campfire.
Please note: The camp’s amenities, including private bathrooms and showers, depend on the category you book (Standard or Luxury).
Night 5: Midelt Your stay in Midelt will be in a comfortable hotel, which serves as a peaceful stopover. Similarly, dinner and breakfast are included here.
Throughout your stay, your driver will assist with check-ins and handle your luggage, especially for your night in the desert camp.
This is a comprehensive journey that covers significant ground, revealing Morocco’s incredible diversity in landscapes, history, and culture.
Scenic Drives & Pacing: The route involves substantial driving time, particularly on Days 2, 5, 7, and 8. However, the landscapes are constantly changing—from mountain passes and rocky gorges to palm oases and coastal roads. The itinerary is carefully planned with frequent stops for photos, exploration, and rest.
Cultural & Historical Immersion: This tour is packed with cultural highlights. Expect to explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, navigate vibrant medinas, learn about ancient Roman history, and witness traditional crafts. The experience in the Sahara, including the camel trek and campfire evening, offers a deep connection to Berber traditions.
Desert Adventure: The journey includes a classic camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes for a spectacular sunset. Your luggage will be transported to the camp by vehicle, so you only need to carry a small overnight bag for the trek.
City Exploration: You will have guided tours in the major cities, but also some free time to explore the medinas at your own pace, shop in the souks, and soak in the unique atmosphere of each imperial capital.
This 8-day Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert tour includes everything you need for a seamless and enriching journey.
You will travel with a professional, English-speaking driver/guide in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. Accommodation is included for all 7 nights as described in the itinerary. Meals include 7 breakfasts and 3 dinners (in Dades Gorge, Merzouga Desert, and Midelt). A sunset camel trek in the Erg Chebbi dunes is included, along with your pick-up from your Marrakech accommodation and drop-off at the end of your tour.
The tour does not include lunches, drinks, tips, or personal expenses. Entrance fees to attractions and monuments are not included. Flights, travel insurance, and any extra services or upgrades are also not part of the base price.
If you want to upgrade your accommodations or add extra activities, you can ask your driver or contact us before the tour starts.
Arrive in Marrakech and begin your journey exploring the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the Bahia Palace, and the Saadian Tombs. Stroll through the souks filled with spices, textiles, and handicrafts before settling into your riad in the medina.
Night: Marrakech
Depart early, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass with breathtaking mountain views. Visit the UNESCO-listed ksar of Ait Ben Haddou. Continue to Ouarzazate, exploring the Atlas Film Studios and Taourirt Kasbah.
Night: Ouarzazate
Drive through the fragrant Valley of Roses. Explore the winding Dades Gorge and the towering Todgha Gorge, where 300m cliffs create a dramatic canyon.
Night: Dades Gorge (Dinner & Breakfast included)
Enter the Sahara, stopping in Erfoud before reaching Merzouga. Enjoy a sunset camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, followed by a night in a desert camp with Berber music.
Night: Merzouga Desert Camp (Dinner & Breakfast included)
Wake up for a Sahara sunrise. Visit Rissani’s traditional market and journey through the Ziz Valley’s palm groves before arriving in Midelt.
Night: Midelt (Dinner & Breakfast included)
Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane before arriving in Fes. Explore the medina’s ancient alleys and tanneries.
Night: Fes
Discover the imperial city of Meknes. Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, then continue to Rabat to see the Hassan Tower and Kasbah of the Udayas.
Night: Rabat
Tour Casablanca, visiting the Hassan II Mosque. Your journey concludes with a transfer to the Casablanca airport (CMN) for your departure flight.
End of Services
Prices vary based on group size and type (private or shared). Contact us to confirm availability and get the best rate for your dates.
You can choose either option. Private tours offer more comfort and flexibility. Shared tours are more affordable.
Yes, with dinner, breakfast, and a camel ride.
Yes, luxury tents with private bathrooms are available.
The journey includes many scenic stops.
Yes, the camels are trained, and the ride is gentle.

