Imperial Cities and Sahara Desert Tour: Embark on an unforgettable 9-day journey through Morocco's ancient cities and the vast Sahara Desert. This captivating adventure immerses you in Morocco's cultural richness, vibrant history, and striking natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the tranquil golden dunes of the Sahara, this tour offers an unforgettable experience.
Your Imperial Cities and Sahara Desert Tour begins in the lively city of Marrakech, a vibrant metropolis where you’ll explore the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the lush Majorelle Garden, and the iconic Koutoubia Mosque. The Imperial Cities and Sahara Desert Tour is a perfect mix of modern vibrancy and ancient tradition in this captivating city.
Next, venture to Fez, home to one of the world’s oldest universities and a UNESCO World Heritage medina. Discover Fez’s hidden treasures, from ancient tanneries to local artisan workshops, offering a fascinating glimpse into Morocco's history and culture.
Continue your journey to the imperial city of Meknes, where you’ll see the Bab Mansour gate and the grand Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, before heading to Rabat, the serene capital of Morocco. Here, marvel at the impressive Hassan Tower and the royal Mausoleum of Mohammed V, which offer insight into the country's royal legacy.
In Casablanca, you’ll visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, dramatically perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.
Your Imperial Cities and Sahara Desert Tour culminates in the Sahara Desert, where you’ll experience the vastness of the desert as you ride camels across the Erg Chebbi dunes. Witness the breathtaking sunset over the sand dunes and spend the night in a traditional desert camp under a star-filled sky.
Throughout the tour, you'll explore ancient kasbahs, lush valleys, and traditional Berber villages, offering an authentic taste of Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.
This Imperial Cities and Sahara Desert Tour is the perfect way to experience the best of Morocco’s history, culture, and natural beauty, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, your private driver will be there to welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore the city at your own pace. For those interested, an optional orientation walk with one of our local guides can be arranged to help you get acquainted with the city.
Accommodation: Palm Menara Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: None
Transportation: Private vehicle
Begin your day with a guided half-day city tour led by a licensed local guide. Visit the magnificent Saadian Tombs, the historic Ben Youssef Madrasa, and stroll through the elegant Bahia Palace, admiring its intricate architecture. Continue to the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where street performers, market stalls, and the aroma of spices fill the air. Wander through the maze-like souks, filled with colorful crafts and local treasures.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure—check out the optional activities for inspiration.
Accommodation: Palm Menara Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transportation: Private vehicle
Your driver will pick you up at 8:00 AM from your hotel or riad in Marrakech as you begin your journey northward. Your first stop is Casablanca, Morocco’s bustling commercial capital. Here, you'll visit the majestic Hassan II Mosque, an architectural marvel perched above the Atlantic Ocean, boasting the tallest minaret in the world at 210 meters.
After your visit, enjoy lunch along the scenic Ain Diab promenade, often referred to as "Morocco’s Miami" for its coastal vibe and vibrant cafés.
In the afternoon, continue to Rabat, the nation's political capital. Upon arrival, explore its highlights, including the charming old Medina, the Oudaya Kasbah with its narrow blue-and-white streets, and the serene Chellah Necropolis, where Roman and Islamic ruins tell stories of centuries past. End your visit at the impressive Hassan Tower, one of Rabat’s iconic landmarks.
Accommodation: Riad Zyo (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transportation: Private vehicle
After breakfast, depart from Rabat, where historic charm meets modern innovation, and begin your journey inland toward Meknes, the 17th-century imperial capital founded by Sultan Moulay Ismaïl. Explore its impressive landmarks, including the lively El Hedim Square, the grand gateways of Bab Lakhmiss and Bab Mansour, and the Royal Stables, once home to thousands of horses. You’ll also visit the serene Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.
Enjoy lunch in Meknes before continuing east to Fes, Morocco’s cultural and spiritual heart. Upon arrival, get a first glimpse of the city’s unique character—its UNESCO-listed medina, made up of the ancient quarters of Fes el Bali and Fes el Jdid, as well as the ville nouvelle built during the French protectorate.
Accommodation: Riad Dar D'Or (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transportation: Private vehicle
At 9:00 AM, meet your local guide at your riad or hotel and begin your immersive journey through Fes, home to the oldest continuously inhabited medina in the world.
Start your exploration at the impressive Royal Palace gates, then enter the ancient medina through the iconic Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate). Wander through a maze of narrow alleys, discovering highlights such as the beautifully preserved Madrasa Bou Inania, the intricate woodwork of the Nejjarine Fountain and Museum, and the vibrant, aromatic Chouara Tannery, where traditional leather-making techniques are still practiced.
This tour offers a deep dive into the history, artistry, and daily life of one of Morocco’s most fascinating cities.
Accommodation: Riad Dar D'Or (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transportation: Private vehicle
Today, you leave behind the ancient city of Fes and begin your journey south toward the mesmerizing Sahara Desert. Your route takes you through a stunning variety of landscapes and cultural encounters.
The first stop is Ifrane, often nicknamed “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture and clean, crisp air. Take a short break for coffee and a stroll before continuing through the Middle Atlas Mountains, where dense cedar and oak forests are home to the playful Barbary macaques—keep your camera ready!
Next, travel to Midelt, known as the "Apple Capital" of Morocco, nestled between the Middle and High Atlas ranges along the Moulouya River. Enjoy lunch here before continuing deeper into the south.
Cross the Tizi n'Talghamt Pass (1,907 m) and descend into the lush Ziz Valley, dotted with oases and clusters of palm trees. Along the road, spot ksars, traditional fortified villages once used to guard caravans transporting valuable goods like salt, gold, and spices.
Arrive in Erfoud, famous for its fossil treasures, then continue toward the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga. Here, your camels and Berber cameleers await to take you across the golden sands. As the sun sets behind the dunes, ride toward your luxury desert camp, your luggage transported by 4x4.
Upon arrival, enjoy a warm Berber dinner followed by live music around the campfire, under a sky blanketed with stars. Your tent includes an en suite bathroom, offering comfort in the heart of the desert.
Accommodation: Desert Camp (Luxury Tent with en suite bathroom)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Transportation: Private vehicle & Camel ride
Rise early to catch the mesmerizing sunrise over the dunes, a perfect moment for stunning desert photos. Enjoy breakfast in the open air at camp before riding your camel back to the edge of the dunes, where your driver will be waiting to continue the journey.
Head west toward Rissani, a lively desert town known for its traditional market and the unique “donkey parking lot.” This former caravan hub is still an important trading center and offers an authentic glimpse into southern Moroccan life.
From there, continue to the lush Tinerhir Oasis, and make your way to the breathtaking Todra Gorge. These dramatic cliffs rise up to 300 meters (984 feet) on either side of the narrow canyon carved by the Todra River. With a local guide, explore the gorge’s stunning rock formations and enjoy lunch near the river, soaking in the tranquil beauty of this natural wonder.
After lunch, drive through the scenic Dades Valley, often referred to as the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs. Admire the landscape of crimson rock formations (famously called the “Monkey Fingers”) and ancient fortified villages nestled along the river.
Arrive at your charming guesthouse in the Dades Gorges, where you’ll be greeted with refreshing mint tea. Enjoy a traditional dinner and a peaceful night surrounded by nature.
Accommodation: Riad Dades Paradisedadesparadise.com (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Transportation: Private Vehicle
After breakfast, begin your scenic journey along the Route of 1,000 Kasbahs, winding through colorful Berber villages and stunning rock formations, famously known as the "Monkey Fingers." As you drive along the Dades River, admire the dramatic landscape filled with ancient fortified kasbahs and lush valleys.
Continue through the Valley of Roses, where you’ll see fields of fragrant rose bushes that produce Morocco’s famous rose water. Stop in Kallaa Mgouna, known for its annual Festival of Roses, before heading west towards Ouarzazate.
In Ouarzazate, known as the "Gateway to the Sahara," you can opt for a studio tour to discover how this region’s vast desert landscapes have been featured in numerous films. Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic kasbahs in Morocco.
Explore the ksar with a local guide, crossing the river to reach the fortified village. Wander through narrow alleys, then climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
In the late afternoon, begin your journey through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260 m). Take several stops to capture the breathtaking views of the rugged terrain and rolling hills before descending toward Marrakech.
Accommodation: Palm Menara Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transportation: Private Vehicle
Depending on the time of your departure, you may have some free time in the morning to explore more of Marrakech. If you wish, visit the Majorelle Garden, a beautiful oasis of vibrant colors, or the Anima Garden, known for its unique collection of art and sculptures. You’ll also have time to shop for souvenirs at the souks, where you can pick up traditional Moroccan crafts such as ceramics, textiles, and spices.
At the appropriate time, your private vehicle will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transportation: Private Vehicle
At Stella Nomadica, we do. But not the kind you find in fairytales—the kind that unfolds in the heart of Morocco, where every moment feels extraordinary.
Our tours are carefully crafted to give you more than just a trip; they offer a glimpse into the soul of Morocco. Every journey is designed to create genuine exchanges between you, the traveler, and us, the locals. We take you beyond the surface, where stories are shared over mint tea, where the golden dunes whisper secrets of the past, and where ancient kasbahs stand as reminders of Morocco’s timeless spirit.
Do you believe in magic? Come explore Morocco with us, and you just might.
