Imperial Cities, Atlas Mountains, and Desert Tour

Introduction

The Imperial Cities, Atlas Mountains & Desert Tour is an incredible journey that takes you through the heart of Morocco, showcasing the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Starting in Rabat and ending in Casablanca, this tour takes you through ancient cities filled with palaces, mosques, and monuments that offer a glimpse into Morocco’s past. A highlight of the tour is a visit to the Sahara Desert, where you will ride a camel, watch the sunset over the dunes, and spend a night in a traditional desert camp, learning about the nomadic Berber people and their way of life. This tour is the perfect way to experience Morocco’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes.

Day 1: Rabat to Fez via Volubilis

• Rabat:
  • Royal Palace: Explore the official residence of the King of Morocco.
  • Hassan Tower: Visit this iconic minaret and incomplete mosque.
  • Mausoleum of Mohammed V: Learn about Moroccan heritage at this royal tomb.
• Volubilis:
  • Roman Ruins: Explore well-preserved ruins, including the Capitoline Temple and the Basilica.
• 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 2: Fez

• Fez:
  • Bou Inania Madrasa: Visit the 14th-century theological college.
  • Dar Batha Museum: Discover Moroccan arts and crafts.
  • Bou Jeloud Gardens: Enjoy a peaceful retreat.
  • Fez El Bali (Old Town): Explore traditional souks and markets, and visit leather tanneries.
• Accommodation: Hotel Royal Mirage Fes 4* (or similar)
• Meals included: Breakfast
• Activities included: Guided tour of Fez (09:00 am)

Day 3: Fez to Merzouga

• Journey:
  • Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains and Ziz Valley, passing traditional Berber villages.
• Merzouga:
  • Camel Trekking: Experience a camel ride over the dunes.
  • Sunset: Admire the changing colors of the desert.
  • Desert Camp: Enjoy a traditional dinner with Berber rhythms and spend the night under the stars in a nomad tent.
• Accommodation: Private Luxury Tent (Merzouga Desert Camp)
• Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
• Activities included: Camel Ride

Day 4: Todra Gorge & Boumalne Dades

• Todra Gorge:
  • Sunrise (optional): Watch the sunrise over the Erg Chebbi sand dunes.
  • Explore the Gorge: Spectacular views and great hiking opportunities.
• Dades Valley:
  • Rock Formations: See the famous “monkey toes” formations.
  • Berber Villages: Explore kasbahs, palmeries, and traditional Berber houses.
• Ouarzazate:
  • Atlas Film Studios: Visit the studio where many famous movies have been filmed.
  • Kasbah Taourirt: Explore the historic kasbah.
• 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 5: Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Kasbah Ait Benhaddou

• Kasbah Ait Benhaddou:
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site: Explore this well-preserved fortress-like village.
  • Film Location: Learn about its use in famous movies and TV shows.
• Journey to Marrakech:
  • Scenic drive through the Atlas Mountains.
• Accommodation: Hotel Labranda Rose Marrakech 4* (or similar)
• Meals included: Breakfast
• Activities included: Guided Tour of Kasbah Ait Benhaddou

Day 6: Marrakech

• Marrakech:
  • Koutoubia Mosque: Visit the largest mosque in Marrakech.
  • Saadian Tombs: Explore the historic site of the Saadian dynasty.
  • Bahia Palace: Discover the intricate tilework and gardens of this 19th-century palace.
  • Souks: Explore traditional markets selling spices, textiles, pottery, and jewelry.
  • Jardin Secret: Discover this historic garden and its Islamic art and architecture.
  • Menara Gardens: Visit the 12th-century public park with a large pond and olive groves.
• 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 7: Casablanca

• Journey to Casablanca:
  • Travel from Marrakech to Casablanca.
• Casablanca:
  • Hassan II Mosque: Visit one of the largest mosques in the world.
  • Habous Quarter: Explore this charming neighborhood with traditional architecture.
  • United Nations Square, Central Market, and Mohammad V Avenue: Discover the city’s most important landmarks.
• Accommodation: Hotel Best Western Plus Casablanca 4* (or similar)
• Meals included: Breakfast
• Activities included: Guided Tour of Casablanca (14:00 pm)
• Additional Notes: Mosque Entry Fee (13 Euro per person)

Day 8: Casablanca – End of the Tour

• Departure: Airport transfer according to your flight departure time.
• Meals included: Breakfast

Tour Details

• Start: Rabat
• Finish: Casablanca
• Inclusions:
  • 4* Hotels on Bed & Breakfast Basis
  • Kasbah Stay in Boulmane Dades (Dinner & Breakfast)
  • Merzouga Desert Private Tent on HB basis (Dinner & Breakfast)
  • Professional Local Guides
  • Transportation in a comfortable A/C Minibus
  • Guaranteed Departure
• Exclusions:
  • Monuments Entrance Fee
  • Lunch and Dinner