12-Day Tour: Sahara desert, Imperial Cities and Atlantic

Welcome to Morocco! Your guide will pick you up at the Menara Airport to your riad in Marrakesh.

Explore Marrakesh’s medina with a local guide. Your day begins with a visit to the Bahia Palace, an exquisite example of 19th-century Moroccan design featuring intricate tilework, lush gardens, and beautifully decorated rooms. Next, you’ll move to visit Saadian Tombs, dating back to the late 1500s, renowned for their stunning architectural detail and historical importance as the final resting place of Saadian dynasty members. Visit Ibn Youssef Madrasa, a 14th-century Islamic school established by Sultan Ali ibn Yusuf, which showcases impressive historical and architectural features. Proceed to the Badi Palace, a grand edifice built by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur in the late 16th century, symbolizing the height of Moroccan opulence and architectural achievement. Wander through the narrow alleyways of the Medina, making your way to Jemaa El-Fna Square. Here, the traditional souks are brimming with handmade crafts and exquisite jewelry. Enjoy a delectable local lunch, and then visit Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakesh, is renowned for its impressive 77-meter-high minaret, which serves as a prominent landmark. Next, take a peaceful stroll through the enchanting Majorelle Garden, a serene oasis in Marrakech, with its blue buildings, lush tropical plants and quiet water landmarks.

Marrakesh – Tizi n’Tichka – Aït Benhaddou – Kalaat M’Gouna – Dades Gorges

Today we will collect you from your Marrakesh riad and head to Ait Benhaddou kasbah, where we’ll make our way through Tizi n’Tichka pass 2.68m. Enjoy a refreshing morning stop in The high atlas mountains and have the option to visit a local women’s cooperative specializing in Argan oil. Next, we’ll drive too south, making stops at picturesque Berber villages along the route for memorable photo opportunities. Once we arrive at Ait Benhaddou, you’ll take some time to relax and enjoy delightful lunch before exploring the world-renowned Kasbah of Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. This fortified village has served as a backdrop for numerous films, including, Gladiator, The Mummy, Black Hawk Down, and the acclaimed series “Game of Thrones”, Next, we’ll drive towards Kalaat M’Gouna, known as the “city of roses,” a charming Berber town famous for its annual rose festival held in May. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Roses Valley before heading to Dades Valley, where we’ll visit an interesting geologic feature known as Monkey fingers among locals. Then we move to explore the winding Road in Dades. It’s a Gorge carved out by the Dades River, which separates the Atlas Mountains to the Anti-Atlas. Overnight in your riad at Dades.

Dades Gorges – Todra Gorges – Ksar El Khorbat – Merzouga

Today we’ll pick you up from your riad in Dades and set off for Merzouga. Our journey starts with a visit to Todra Valley, where you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the lush oasis alongside the river. We’ll then continue to the Todra Gorge, a remarkable natural formation with towering limestone cliffs reaching up to 300 meters. The dramatic scenery here is unforgettable, even during the summer months. Next, we continue our journeys to ksar El Khorbat in Tinejdad for a delightful lunch , followed by a visit El khorbat, an ancient fortified village in Morocco, located in the Draa Valley. The site offers a glimpse into traditional Berber life and architecture, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in Moroccan history and culture. The next stop of the day is to Merzouga desert. From there is a beautiful panoramic view of high sand dunes. Overnight in your riad in Merzouga.

Today we will begin with an exciting 4×4 adventure through the Marzouka desert. Our first destination is Khamlia village, where you’ll meet the Gnawa people, an ethnic people with West African roots who speak Berber. Renowned for their music, dance, and spiritual rituals, the Gnawa offer a unique cultural experience. Next, we’ll visit local nomad families who still adhere to their traditional lifestyle. You’ll have the opportunity to engage with them, learn about their customs. Following this, enjoy an exhilarating off-road drive through the desert dunes to take in the ever-changing landscapes. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant in Merzouga. The day concludes with a 1h-1.5h camel ride to the desert camp, where you’ll experience a stunning sunset. Cap off your evening with a traditional dinner under the stars, accompanied by local folk songs and dancing around the campfire.

Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Cedar Forest – Ifrane – Fez

In the early morning, you’ll have a memorable experience as you ascend the dunes to watch the sunrise. After this breathtaking start to the day, return to the camp for a warm, traditional breakfast. Next, we’ll head north towards Fez, one of Morocco’s renowned imperial cities. Along the way, we’ll drive through the stunning foothills of the Ziz Valley Mountains, where you can marvel at the mesmerizing landscapes. We’ll pause at a mountain peak for a coffee and to enjoy panoramic views of the Ziz Valley. Continuing our travel, we’ll arrive in Midelt, the Moroccan apple capital, where you’ll have time for lunch. Afterwards, we’ll travel to Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its picturesque charm. You’ll have ample time to explore this unique and beautiful town by walk.

Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Cedar Forest – Ifrane – Fez

A full-day tour to explore one of the most famous imperial cities. In morning you’ll meet our local guide in your hotel and we’ll drive to Royal Palace, founded in 1276 by Abu Yusuf Yaqub. Next, we head towards Panorama of Fez, where you’ll see a wonderful panoramic view of the Medina. After that, Let’s go visit the Pottery, Bab Boujeloud and Chouara Tannery. Afterward, your guide will organize for you a walking tour of the Medina visiting the famous many historical monuments. It founded in the 9th century and in 1981 was included into the UNESCO World Heritage site. It is famous for being home to the world’s oldest university named Al-Qarawiyyin. Take in the beautiful historic buildings and homes while discovering their stories in the Medina. Overnight in your riad.

Fez – Rabat – Casablanca 

Today, you will start your tour from Fez to Rabat via the highway. Upon arrival, we’ll explore key sights such as the Hassan tower, an iconic landmark in Rabat, stands as a remarkable example of Almohad architecture. Next, we move to visit the Royal Palace, or Dar al-Makhzen, is the Moroccan king’s official residence. Then we’ll visit Chellah is an ancient Roman and medieval necropolis near Rabat, renowned for its well-preserved ruins, including Roman baths, a grand mosque, and the remains of a medieval Islamic city, all set amidst tranquil gardens. The lunch will in a local restaurant in Rabat. Next, we will move to discover Kasbah of the Udayas, is a historic fortress known for its striking blue and white architecture, narrow winding streets, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Overnight in your hotel in Casablanca.

Casablanca – El Jadida – Oualidia 

After breakfast, We’ll begin our exploration of Casablanca with a visit to this mega cities true heart and center! Our first destination of the day which is Casablanca’s most important Hassan II Mosque. It is stunning architecture and is one of the largest Mosques in the world, featuring a towering minaret that reaches 210 meters in height. Next we move to visit The library of the Hassan II Mosque, where showcases a vast collection of Islamic manuscripts and historical texts within its elegantly designed space, reflecting the mosque’s architectural splendor. After the Grand Mosque, we proceed to Mohamed V square, located in the heart of Casablanca, features striking colonial-era buildings and is a lively center of activity and cultural significance. Next, we will then depart for the drive to El Jadida (approximately 1.5h) stopping to have lunch before embarking to visit the city. El Jadida is known in Berber as Mazagan, is an old Portuguese city located on the Atlantic coast of Morocco. Visit the old medina and Portuguese walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then move to discover the restored consulate, the church, and the Jewish Mausoleum, where the restored consulate offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past, while the church showcases a blend of local and European styles. The Jewish Mausoleum provides a poignant insight into the region’s diverse cultural heritage. Explore the Palais Andalous, is a beautifully restored 19th-century and an example of traditional Moroccan architecture, featuring intricate tile work, elegant courtyards, and ornate detailing. Overnight in your riad at Oualidia.

Oualidia – Safi – Essaouira

After breakfast, stroll along the picturesque beach. On this lazy day, we include a boat trip to explore the lagoon. You’ll have time to unwind on the dune-swept beach, and for a touch of history, explore the remnants of an old Portuguese fort overlooking the lagoon. Next, we drive towards Safi. Once we arrive, we begin with a visit to the ancient Portuguese fortress for panoramic views of the coastline, explore the old medina. Browse the pottery and ceramics quarter on Rue du Souk. Colline des Potiers is the renowned pottery district in Safi. This hillside area offers visitors a chance to explore local artisans’ studios, observe the pottery-making process. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample fresh seafood at a local restaurant. Overnight in your riad at Esaaouira.

Oualidia – Safi – Essaouira

After breakfast, spend a full-day in Essaouira allows you to fully immerse yourself in the city’s unique charm. begin your day with a visit to the “medina”, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which you will explore the medina’s renowned landmarks, including the bustling souk with its lively merchant lanes, the Gates of Medina, and the impressive Sqala du Port. Don’t miss the city’s ramparts, which feature a platform with cannons overlooking the sea. Enjoy the stunning coastal views and savor some of the best local seafood in the area. Finally, take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront or the ramparts, soaking in the coastal views and the relaxed vibe of this charming coastal town.

Essaouira – Marrakesh airport

Today, there’s free time until the transfer to the Marrakesh airport for the flight to the next destination.