Highlights of the Imperial Cities & Sahara Tour

Introduction:

Discover the best of Morocco on this 8-day tour that takes you through the ancient city of Fez, the desert landscape of Merzouga, traditional Berber villages of Erfoud and Rissani, the stunning Dades Valley, the “Gateway to the Desert” Ouarzazate, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, the vibrant city of Marrakech, the economic capital of Casablanca, Rabat, and Volubilis. This tour includes transportation, accommodation, daily breakfast, and guided visits to various sites, allowing visitors to experience the local culture and hospitality of the Berber people and learn about the history and culture of Morocco.

Day 1: Fez

Begin with a guided tour of Fez, one of Morocco’s most historically rich and culturally significant cities. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and UNESCO-listed Old Town, Fez is a must-see destination. Starting at 9 AM, explore sites like the Bou Inania Madrasa, a 14th-century theological college, and the Dar Batha Museum, housed in a 19th-century palace. Visit the Bou Jeloud Gardens, and wander through Fez El Bali, the Old Town, with its traditional souks and leather tanneries. Overnight stay in Fez.

• Accommodation: Hotel Royal Mirage Fes 4* (or similar)
• Meals included: Breakfast
• Activities included: Guided tour of Fez (9 AM)

Day 2: Fez to Merzouga

Depart at 8 AM for a journey from Fez to Merzouga, passing through the Middle Atlas Mountains and Ziz Valley. Along the way, see traditional Berber villages and stunning landscapes. In Merzouga, experience camel trekking and spend the night in a traditional desert camp, enjoying a traditional dinner and Berber rhythms under the stars.

• Accommodation: Private Luxury Tent (Merzouga Desert Camp)
• Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
• Activities included: Camel Ride

Day 3: Dades Valley & Todra Gorge

Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes (optional), then continue to Ouarzazate via Dades Valley. Explore the valley’s kasbahs, palmeries, and traditional Berber houses. Visit the Dades and Todra Gorges for spectacular views and hiking opportunities. After lunch, proceed to Ouarzazate, visiting the Atlas Film Studios.

• Accommodation: Kasbah Stay
• Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
• Activities included: Visit Kasbah Taourirt, Visit Atlas Film Studio
• Additional Notes: Kasbah Taourirt Entry Fee (2 Euro per person), Atlas Film Studio Entry Fee (8 Euro per person)

Day 4: Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Kasbah Ait Benhaddou

Drive through the Atlas Mountains from Ouarzazate to Marrakech, stopping at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kasbah Ait Benhaddou. Explore this fortress-like village, then continue to Marrakech, a vibrant and historic city.

• Accommodation: Hotel Labranda Rose Marrakech 4* (or similar)
• Meals included: Breakfast
• Activities included: Guided Tour of Kasbah Ait Benhaddou

Day 5: Marrakesh

Enjoy a full-day tour of Marrakech, visiting the Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, and the city’s souks. After lunch, visit the Jardin Secret and Menara Gardens.

• Accommodation: Hotel Labranda Rose Marrakech 4* (or similar)
• Meals included: Breakfast
• Activities included: Guided Tour of Marrakech
• Additional Notes: Saadian Tomb Entry Fee (7 Euro per person), Bahia Palace Entry Fee (7 Euro per person), Secret Garden Entry Fee (8 Euro per person)

Day 6: Casablanca

Travel from Marrakech to Casablanca for a guided tour starting at 2 PM. Visit the Hassan II Mosque, Habous Quarter, United Nations Square, Central Market, and Mohammad V Avenue.

• Accommodation: Hotel Best Western Plus Casablanca 4* (or similar)
• Meals included: Breakfast
• Activities included: Airport Arrival Meet & Greet, Guided Tour of Casablanca (2 PM)
• Additional Notes: Mosque Entry Fee (13 Euro per person)

Day 7: Rabat & Volubilis

Depart at 9 AM from Casablanca to Fez via Rabat and Volubilis. In Rabat, visit the Royal Palace, Hassan Tower, and Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Then explore the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis.

• Accommodation: Hotel Royal Mirage Fes 4* (or similar)
• Meals included: Breakfast
• Activities included: Guided tour of Rabat, Guided tour of Roman Ruins of Volubilis
• Additional Notes: Volubilis Entry Fee (7 Euro per person)

Day 8: Fez – End of the Tour

On your last day in Fez, we will arrange the transfer to Fez airport. End of our services.

• Meals included: Breakfast
• Optional Extras: Tangier & Chefchaouen by Train

Tour Details

• Start: Fez
• Finish: Fez
• Inclusions:
  • 4* Hotels on Bed & Breakfast Basis
  • Merzouga Desert Private Tent (Dinner & Breakfast)
  • Kasbah Stay (Dinner & Breakfast)
  • Professional Local Guides
  • Transportation in a comfortable A/C Minibus
  • Camel Ride to the Camp
• Exclusions:
  • Monuments Entrance Fee
  • Lunch and Dinner