13 DAY TOUR FROM RABAT TO THE SAHARA DESERT AND IMPERIAL CITIES

• Discovery of Rabat’s historical monuments and coastal elegance 
• Exploration of Chefchaouen, the iconic blue city of the Rif Mountains 
• Visit to the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes 
• Full guided cultural tour of Fes and its medieval medina 
• Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains and cedar forests 
• Camel trekking experience across the dunes of Erg Chebbi 
• Overnight stay in a luxury Sahara desert camp with traditional dinner 
• Cultural encounters with nomadic families and Gnawa music in Khamlia 
• Exploration of Todra Gorge and Dades Valley landscapes 
• Visit to Ait Ben Haddou, UNESCO World Heritage Site 
• Relaxation in the coastal city of Agadir 
• Discovery of Essaouira’s artistic and maritime charm 
• Guided exploration of Marrakech’s monuments and souks 
• Visit to Casablanca and the Hassan II Mosque 

Day 1: Arrival in Rabat – Introduction to the Capital

Upon arrival in Rabat, you will be welcomed and transferred to your accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, you begin exploring Morocco’s political and administrative capital, known for its calm atmosphere and refined architecture.

You will visit the Hassan Tower, an unfinished yet monumental structure dating back to the Almohad era, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, an elegant example of Moroccan craftsmanship. The tour continues to the Kasbah of the Udayas, a peaceful Andalusian-style fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

The day offers a gentle cultural introduction before the journey intensifies.

Overnight in Rabat.

Day 2: Rabat – Chefchaouen (The Blue City)

After breakfast, you depart Rabat and travel north toward the Rif Mountains. The journey passes through rural landscapes, olive groves, and small traditional villages.

By afternoon, you arrive in Chefchaouen, a town renowned for its distinctive blue-painted streets and tranquil atmosphere. You will have time to wander through its narrow alleys, explore artisan shops, and enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding mountains.

The relaxed pace of the city provides a striking contrast to larger urban centers.

Overnight in Chefchaouen.

Day 3: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

Leaving Chefchaouen, the journey continues toward Fes with significant historical stops along the way.

First, you visit Volubilis, Morocco’s most important Roman archaeological site, where well-preserved mosaics and ancient structures offer insight into the region’s classical past. You then continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, known for its monumental gates and historical significance.

By late afternoon, you arrive in Fes, where you settle into your traditional riad.

Overnight in Fes.

Day 4: Guided Exploration of Fes

This day is dedicated to an in-depth exploration of Fes with a certified local guide.

You enter the ancient medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where narrow alleys, bustling souks, and historic monuments reveal a city largely unchanged for centuries. Highlights include the Bou Inania Madrasa, the Nejjarine Fountain, and the famous tanneries.

You will also visit Al-Qarawiyyin University, recognized as the oldest continuously operating university in the world.

Overnight in Fes.

Day 5: Fes – Middle Atlas – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert

After breakfast, the journey heads south toward the Sahara.

You pass through Ifrane, known for its alpine architecture, and continue into the cedar forests of Azrou, where Barbary macaques inhabit the area. The route then crosses the Middle Atlas Mountains before descending into the dramatic landscapes of the Ziz Valley.

By late afternoon, you reach Merzouga, where the dunes of Erg Chebbi rise from the desert floor. You embark on a camel trek across the dunes at sunset, arriving at your desert camp in time for dinner and an evening under the stars.

Overnight in a luxury desert camp.

Day 6: Sahara Desert Exploration

Wake early to witness sunrise over the dunes, a moment of rare stillness and natural beauty.

After breakfast, the day is dedicated to exploring the desert region. You visit Khamlia village, where Gnawa music reflects deep African roots, and meet nomadic families living in traditional tents.

Optional activities such as 4×4 excursions or fossil site visits provide further insight into the desert’s cultural and geological richness.

Overnight in Merzouga.

Day 7: Merzouga – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley – Ouarzazate

Leaving the desert behind, you travel along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs.

A major highlight is Todra Gorge, where towering cliffs form a dramatic canyon. You will have time to walk through the gorge and enjoy its refreshing atmosphere.

The journey continues through the Dades Valley, known for its unique rock formations and scenic landscapes, before arriving in Ouarzazate.

Overnight in Ouarzazate.

Day 8: Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Agadir

After breakfast, you visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar known for its earthen architecture and cinematic history.

You then continue west toward Agadir, passing through changing landscapes that gradually shift from desert to coastal environments.

Arrival in Agadir offers a relaxed atmosphere with beaches and modern amenities.

Overnight in Agadir.

Day 9: Agadir – Essaouira

Today you travel along the Atlantic coast to Essaouira, a charming seaside town known for its artistic culture and historic medina.

Upon arrival, explore the fishing port, fortified walls, and artisan markets. The city’s relaxed pace and ocean breeze create a refreshing contrast to inland destinations.

Overnight in Essaouira.

Day 10: Essaouira – Marrakech

After a relaxed morning, depart for Marrakech. Along the way, you may stop at argan oil cooperatives where traditional production methods are demonstrated.

Upon arrival in Marrakech, you can explore the lively Jemaa el-Fna Square, where street performers, musicians, and food stalls create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 11: Guided Tour of Marrakech

Discover Marrakech with a local guide. Visit major landmarks such as the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and the Majorelle Garden.

The tour continues through the bustling souks, where artisans craft traditional goods ranging from textiles to metalwork. The sensory richness of the medina provides a deep immersion into Moroccan culture.

Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 12: Marrakech – Casablanca

After breakfast, travel to Casablanca, Morocco’s economic capital.

You will visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, dramatically built along the Atlantic coastline. You may also explore the Corniche and other modern districts.

Overnight in Casablanca.

Day 13: Casablanca – Rabat (Departure)

After breakfast, transfer back to Rabat for your departure flight. Depending on timing, you may have free time for last-minute exploration or shopping.

End of the tour.