Complete Morocco Experience: 13-Day Tour from Marrakech to the Sahara
From
Marrakech
Duration
13 Days
Destination
Sahara Desert
This 13 Day Morocco Tour from Marrakech offers a complete and immersive journey through Morocco, combining cultural discovery, natural beauty, and authentic local experiences. Starting in Marrakech, the tour takes you to the coastal charm of Essaouira, the historic cities of Casablanca and Rabat, the picturesque blue streets of Chefchaouen, the ancient Roman site of Volubilis, and the cultural heart of Fez.
As you travel south, you will cross the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, explore the Sahara Desert, and spend a memorable night in a desert camp in Merzouga. You will also discover the stunning landscapes of the Dades Valley and visit Ouarzazate before returning to Marrakech.
Throughout this journey, you will experience how Morocco blends its rich history with modern life. From lively markets and traditional cuisine to peaceful desert nights under the stars, every moment of this tour offers a unique and authentic insight into Moroccan culture.
- Explore the historic medina of Marrakech and its vibrant souks
- Discover the coastal charm and artisan culture of Essaouira
- Visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
- Explore the capital city of Rabat and its historical monuments
- Stroll through the blue streets of Chefchaouen
- Discover the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis
- Experience the cultural richness of Fez and its medina
- Camel trekking experience in the Merzouga desert
- Overnight stay in a desert camp under the stars in Erg Chebbi
- Meet nomadic families and discover their lifestyle
- Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Todra Gorges and Dades Valley
- Visit Ouarzazate and the famous Ait Ben Haddou kasbah
- Enjoy panoramic views while crossing the High Atlas Mountains
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech
Arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, where you will be welcomed and transferred to your accommodation in the medina. Enjoy your first impressions of the city by exploring its lively streets and Jemaa el-Fna Square. Overnight stay in a riad.
Day 2: Marrakech – Essaouira
After breakfast, travel to the coastal city of Essaouira. On the way, stop at an argan oil cooperative and possibly see goats climbing argan trees. Upon arrival, explore the UNESCO-listed medina and enjoy the relaxed seaside atmosphere. Overnight stay in Essaouira.
Day 3: Essaouira – Safi – El Jadida – Casablanca
Drive along the Atlantic coast through Safi, known for its pottery, and El Jadida, a former Portuguese city with impressive fortifications. Continue to Casablanca, visit the Hassan II Mosque, and enjoy a walk along the Corniche. Overnight stay in Casablanca.
Day 4: Casablanca – Rabat – Chefchaouen
Travel to Rabat, the capital city, and visit the Royal Palace, Hassan Tower, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Continue to Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains, famous for its blue-painted streets. Overnight stay in Chefchaouen.
Day 5: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fez
Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, then continue to Meknes to explore its historical sites, including Bab Mansour and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Drive to Fez for overnight stay.
Day 6: Fez City Tour
Enjoy a guided tour of Fez, including the Royal Palace, Mellah, Al Quaraouiyine University, Bou Inania Madrasa, traditional tanneries, and artisan workshops. Overnight stay in Fez.
Day 7: Fez – Midelt – Merzouga
Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Ifrane and Midelt. Continue along the Ziz Valley to reach Merzouga. Dinner and overnight in a desert camp.
Day 8: Merzouga Desert Exploration
Start your day with a camel ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunrise. Visit a nomadic family and learn about their lifestyle. Enjoy traditional meals, Berber music, and a peaceful night under the stars in the desert.
Day 9: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
Travel to the Todra Gorges, known for their impressive canyon landscapes. Continue to the Dades Valley, famous for its rock formations and green oases. Overnight stay in the valley.
Day 10: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech
Drive to Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa.” Visit the Ait Ben Haddou kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass and return to Marrakech. Overnight stay.
Day 11: Marrakech Sightseeing
Explore Marrakech’s main attractions, including the Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, and the souks. Visit the Majorelle Garden and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fna Square. Overnight stay.
Day 12: Marrakech – Leisure Day
Free day to explore Marrakech at your own pace. Optional activities include visiting museums, relaxing in a hammam, shopping, or taking a Moroccan cooking class. Overnight stay.
Day 13: Departure from Marrakech
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy breakfast before your transfer to Marrakech airport. End of the tour.
Included
- Airport transfers in Marrakech
- Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation in riads, hotels, and desert camp
- Daily breakfasts and selected dinners
- Camel trekking experience in Erg Chebbi
- Guided city tours in Marrakech and Fez
- Visit to Chefchaouen, Rabat, Casablanca, and Essaouira
- Desert excursion and nomadic family visit
- Visit to Ait Ben Haddou and Volubilis
- Fuel, road taxes, and local logistics
Excluded
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Lunches and drinks
- Entrance fees to monuments and attractions
- Personal expenses and shopping
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Optional activities and workshops
- Hammam and spa services
- Extra accommodation upgrades
What to Know Before this 13 Day Morocco Tour from Marrakech
What to Bring Before Your 13 Day Morocco Tour from Marrakech
- Comfortable walking shoes for city tours and desert areas
- Lightweight clothing for warm weather
- Warm layers for mountain and desert nights
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat
- Camera or smartphone for landscapes and medinas
- Small backpack for daily essentials
- Travel adapter and portable charger
- Personal medication and toiletries
- Scarf for desert wind and sun protection
Tips for First-Time Travelers
- Morocco has different climates between coast, mountains, and desert regions
- Keep cash for local markets and smaller shops
- Comfortable footwear is important for medina visits and excursions
- Respect local traditions and dress modestly in rural areas
- Bargaining is common in traditional souks
- Stay hydrated during long drives and outdoor activities
- Desert nights can become cold even after hot days
Climate Overview
- Marrakech and Fez: warm and sunny most of the year
- Atlantic coast: mild and breezy weather
- Atlas Mountains: cooler temperatures
- Sahara Desert: hot days and cool nights
- Northern cities such as Chefchaouen: moderate climate
Average temperatures:
- Spring: 20°C to 30°C
- Summer: 30°C to 42°C in desert regions
- Autumn: 22°C to 32°C
- Winter: 10°C to 24°C
Spring and autumn are ideal seasons for this tour.
Travel Difficulty & Fitness Level
- Includes long scenic drives between destinations
- Light walking during guided city tours and excursions
- Camel trekking experience in Merzouga
- No technical hiking required
- Suitable for couples, solo travelers, families, and groups
- Optional activities available during leisure days
Gallery
