8 Day Imperial Cities, Desert to Coast Tour

Day 1: Casablanca – Fes

Your exciting journey begins in Casablanca, the economic hub of Morocco. After arriving, you’ll be greeted by your guide and begin the drive towards Fes, with stops in Rabat and Meknes along the way. In Rabat, explore the Hassan Tower, a symbol of Morocco’s cultural heritage. As you approach Meknes, visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Morocco. After a scenic drive through the Moroccan countryside, you’ll arrive in Fes and spend the night in a traditional authentic Morocco riad.

• Highlights: Casablanca, Rabat, Volubilis, Meknes, traditional riads.

Day 2: Exploring Fes

Begin your day with a Moroccan breakfast in your riad and set out for a Fes guided tour. As one of the oldest cities in Morocco, Fes is rich in culture and history. Stroll through the winding streets of the medina and visit important landmarks such as the Royal Palace Gate, Al Qaraouine University (the oldest university in the world), and the tanneries, where traditional leatherwork is still practiced. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Mulay Idriss Mausoleum and witness the skill of local artisans at a tile cooperative, where intricate mosaics are crafted by hand. Finish your day with a panoramic view of the entire city from one of the high vantage points in Fes.

• Highlights: Fes Medina, Royal Palace, Jewish Quarter, Al Qaraouine University.

Day 3: Fes – Merzouga: Camel Ride in Erg Chebbi Dunes

On this day, you’ll venture into the Sahara Desert. After breakfast, leave Fes and head south towards Merzouga. Along the way, stop in Ifrane, a small town in the Atlas Mountains known for its Swiss-like architecture. Continue through Azrou, a forested area inhabited by Barbary apes, and pass through the scenic Ziz Gorge and Ziz Valley. Once you reach Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert, you’ll be greeted with a refreshing cup of mint tea before setting off on a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi Dunes. As the sun sets over the dunes, you’ll enjoy a traditional Berber dinner, accompanied by the sounds of Berber drums around a campfire.

• Highlights: Atlas Mountains, Barbary Apes, Ziz Gorge, Sahara Camel Ride.

Day 4: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

Start the day early with an unforgettable sunrise over the desert dunes, followed by a camel ride back to Merzouga. After breakfast, you’ll continue your journey towards Todra Gorges, a stunning natural site with towering rock walls. After exploring the gorges, stop for lunch in Tinghir before making your way through the Dades Valley, known for its unique rock formations. These rock formations, resembling sand castles and “monkey toes,” create one of the most picturesque landscapes in Morocco. In the evening, enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation in a guesthouse overlooking the valley.

• Highlights: Todra Gorges, Dades Valley, rock formations, Moroccan landscapes.

Day 5: Dades Valley – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

After breakfast, head towards Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous kasbahs in Morocco. The kasbah is a popular filming location, having appeared in numerous films, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Explore the kasbah and continue your journey through the Valley of Roses, stopping in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Then, drive through the Tizi n’ Tichka Pass, a high mountain pass in the Atlas Mountains, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon and check into a traditional riad in the city.

• Highlights: Ait Ben Haddou, Valley of Roses, Atlas Mountains, Marrakech.

Day 6: Marrakech

Explore the vibrant city of Marrakech today. After breakfast in your riad, visit historical landmarks such as the Majorelle Gardens, the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs, and the Bahia Palace. After lunch, wander through the bustling souks of the medina, where you’ll find an array of spices, textiles, and unique crafts. In the evening, visit the Jemaa el-Fna Square, the heart of Marrakech, where food stalls and street performers create a lively atmosphere.

• Highlights: Majorelle Gardens, Bahia Palace, Koutoubia Mosque, Jemaa el-Fna.

Day 7: Marrakech – Essaouira Day Excursion

Today, you’ll travel to the coastal town of Essaouira, a UNESCO-listed site known for its historic medina and 18th-century ramparts. Explore the town’s vibrant markets and picturesque fishing port, where fresh seafood is sold daily. Stroll along the beautiful beach and admire the views of the Atlantic Ocean. Essaouira is also famous for water sports like surfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the strong coastal winds. After a day of exploration, return to Marrakech in the evening.

• Highlights: Essaouira ramparts, fishing port, Atlantic beaches, water sports.

Day 8: Transfer to Airport

After breakfast, transfer to Marrakech airport for your departure. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories from your Morocco vacation tours, and look forward to planning your next adventure in Morocco.

• Highlights: Marrakech departure, airport transfer, tour completion.