This 10-day Imperial Cities and Sahara Desert tour from Casablanca is the perfect blend of Morocco’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Starting and ending in Casablanca, you will explore Morocco’s four Imperial cities Rabat, Meknes, Fez, and Marrakech as well as Roman ruins, majestic kasbahs, lush valleys, and the golden dunes of the Sahara.
From the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca to the UNESCO-listed Medina of Fes, the vibrant Jemaa el-Fna Square of Marrakech, and the cinematic landscapes of Aït Ben Haddou, this journey takes you deep into Morocco’s soul. Experience camel trekking at sunset, spend a night under the stars in a desert camp, and explore centuries-old traditions in local souks and kasbahs.
Arrive at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, where your driver-guide will welcome you. Transfer to your hotel to relax after your journey. If time permits, enjoy a leisurely evening walk along the Corniche, taking in the Atlantic Ocean views. Overnight in Casablanca.
After breakfast, explore Casablanca’s highlights:
Hassan II Mosque – one of the largest mosques in the world, with stunning oceanfront architecture.
Mohammed V Square, United Nations Square, Central Post Office – a blend of colonial and Moroccan architecture.
Then drive to Rabat, the capital city of Morocco, for a guided historical tour:
Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Morocco.
Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the resting place of the grandfather and father of the current king.
Hassan Tower, a 12th-century minaret left unfinished.
Chellah Necropolis, the ruins of a medieval fortified Muslim necropolis.
Kasbah Oudaya, a charming fortress with Andalusian gardens overlooking the Atlantic.
Overnight in Rabat.
Depart after breakfast to Meknes, the 16th-century imperial city, home to Sultan Moulay Ismail’s grand palaces and gates.
Continue to Volubilis, the Roman archaeological site and UNESCO World Heritage site, with its mosaics and ruins dating back to the 3rd century.
Drive onward to Fes, Morocco’s cultural capital. Check into your riad or hotel for an overnight stay.
Spend the day exploring the medieval medina of Fes with a local guide:
Fes El Bali – the oldest and largest medieval city in the world.
Al Karaouine Mosque & University, established in 859 AD, the world’s oldest continuously operating university.
Ancient Tanneries, witness artisans creating leather goods using traditional techniques.
Merinid Tombs for panoramic city views.
Lunch at a traditional Moroccan restaurant in the medina. Explore souks, artisan workshops, and hidden alleys. Overnight in Fes.
Drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains and the Swiss-style town of Ifrane, stopping at the Cedar Forest to see Barbary monkeys in their natural habitat.
Continue through Midelt, the apple capital of Morocco, and cross the Tizi-n-Talremt pass to reach the Ziz Valley, famous for its palm groves and picturesque ksars (fortified villages).
Arrive at Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Enjoy a camel trek at sunset into the Erg Chebbi dunes and spend the night in a traditional Berber nomad tent.
Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, explore the surrounding desert:
Visit the nomadic settlements and oases of Erg Chebbi.
Stop at Khamlia village, home to Gnawa musicians of African origin, and enjoy local music.
Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight in Merzouga.
Early morning camel trek to watch the sunrise over the dunes. Then depart for Ouarzazate, passing through:
Rissani Souk, one of Southern Morocco’s largest traditional markets.
Erfoud, famous for fossilized marble workshops.
Todra Gorges, a spectacular canyon ideal for hiking.
Dades Valley & Valley of Roses, scenic drives through palm groves and rose farms.
Arrive in Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Morocco”, and check into your hotel.
Visit Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and famous filming location. Explore its fortified structures and learn about its history.
Continue through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing Tizi-n-Tichka Pass (2260 m), to reach Marrakech. Check into your hotel or riad.
Explore Marrakech with a local guide:
Bahia Palace – 19th-century palace with exquisite gardens.
Badii Palace, ruins of a historic royal palace.
Saadian Tombs – historic burial site of the Saadian dynasty.
Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech’s iconic landmark.
Majorelle Garden, colorful botanical garden once owned by Yves Saint Laurent.
Jemaa el-Fna Square & Souks, vibrant market square for crafts, food, and street performances.
Dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant. Overnight in Marrakech.
After breakfast, transfer to Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport according to your flight schedule. End of your Imperial Cities & Desert Tour of Morocco.
