7-Day Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert Tour from Casablanca

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day journey through Morocco's imperial past and natural wonders, from the Atlantic coast to the golden dunes of the Sahara. This meticulously crafted itinerary takes you through all four imperial cities - Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakech - while also immersing you in the breathtaking landscapes of the Atlas Mountains and the magic of the desert. Experience the perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure in one seamless journey.

Why Choose This Tour

• Complete Imperial Experience: Visit all four imperial cities in one comprehensive itinerary
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Explore multiple UNESCO sites including Fes medina, Volubilis, and Ait Ben Haddou
• Authentic Desert Adventure: Overnight in a luxury Berber desert camp with camel trekking
• Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide deep insights at each destination
• Small Group Experience: Maximum group size of 12 ensures personalized attention
• Comfort & Convenience: Premium transportation and carefully selected accommodations
• Cultural Immersion: Authentic experiences with local communities and artisans
• All-Inclusive: Most meals, activities, and entrance fees included for a hassle-free experience

Highlights

• Hassan II Mosque - Casablanca's iconic architectural masterpiece
• Rabat Royal Capital - Official residence, Kasbah, and Hassan Tower
• Volubilis Roman Ruins - UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site
• Meknes Imperial City - Historic Bab Mansour gate and royal complexes
• Fes Medina - UNESCO ancient scholarly center and leather craftsmanship
• Middle Atlas Mountains - Scenic cedar forests and Berber villages
• Todra Gorges - Dramatic 300-meter high canyon walls
• Erg Chebbi Dunes - Sahara desert camel trekking experience
• Berber Desert Camp - Authentic nomadic hospitality under stars

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Casablanca to Rabat

• Morning (9:00 AM): Visit Hassan II Mosque with guided tour
• Late Morning: Depart for Rabat along coastal highway
• Afternoon (1:00 PM): Arrive in Rabat, check into accommodation
• Late Afternoon: Explore Kasbah of the Udayas and Andalusian Gardens
• Evening: Visit Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum
• Dinner: Traditional Moroccan cuisine in medina
• Distance: 90 km | Drive time: 1.5 hours | Overnight: Rabat

Day 2: Rabat to Meknes via Volubilis

• Morning (9:00 AM): Explore Rabat's old medina and souks
• Mid-Morning: Visit Royal Palace exterior and modern Rabat
• Late Morning: Depart for Volubilis
• Lunch: Restaurant near Volubilis archaeological site
• Afternoon: Comprehensive tour of UNESCO Roman ruins
• Late Afternoon: Continue to Meknes
• Evening: Explore Meknes medina and Bab Mansour gate
• Distance: 200 km | Drive time: 3 hours | Overnight: Meknes

Day 3: Meknes to Fes

• Morning (9:00 AM): Visit Meknes royal palaces and granaries
• Mid-Morning: Explore Heri es-Souani and Agdal Basin
• Late Morning: Depart for Fes
• Afternoon (1:00 PM): Arrive in Fes, check into traditional riad
• Late Afternoon: Rest and orientation walk
• Evening: Guided introduction to Fes medina with dinner
• Distance: 60 km | Drive time: 1 hour | Overnight: Fes

Day 4: Fes Full Day Exploration

• Morning (9:00 AM): Comprehensive guided tour of Fes medina
• Mid-Morning: Visit famous Chouara leather tanneries
• Late Morning: Explore Al-Quaraouiyine University and Bou Inania Madrasa
• Lunch: Traditional meal in medina restaurant
• Afternoon: Visit artisan districts - pottery, metalwork, textiles
• Late Afternoon: Explore Mellah (Jewish Quarter) and Royal Palace
• Evening: Optional traditional hammam or free time
• Overnight: Fes

Day 5: Fes to Merzouga Desert

• Morning (8:00 AM): Depart Fes through Middle Atlas Mountains
• Mid-Morning: Stop in Ifrane, "Switzerland of Morocco"
• Late Morning: Continue through cedar forests of Azrou
• Lunch: Mountain restaurant in Midelt
• Afternoon: Drive through Ziz Valley palm groves
• Late Afternoon (5:00 PM): Arrive Merzouga, camel caravan ready
• Sunset: Camel trek into Erg Chebbi dunes (1.5 hours)
• Evening: Berber camp with traditional dinner and music
• Distance: 460 km | Drive time: 7 hours with stops | Overnight: Desert camp

Day 6: Merzouga Desert Experience

• Early Morning: Sunrise camel trek back to village
• Morning: Breakfast and rest at desert hotel
• Mid-Morning: Visit nomadic Berber family
• Lunch: Traditional meal with local family
• Afternoon: Optional sandboarding or 4WD desert exploration
• Late Afternoon: Relaxation or village exploration
• Sunset: Second camel trek for sunset viewing
• Evening: Second night in camp with stargazing
• Overnight: Desert camp

Day 7: Return to Casablanca via Todra Gorges

• Morning (8:00 AM): Final desert exploration
• Mid-Morning: Drive to Todra Gorges
• Lunch: Restaurant at Todra Gorges
• Afternoon: Brief hike through dramatic canyon
• Late Afternoon: Begin return journey to Casablanca
• Evening (8:00 PM): Arrive in Casablanca
• Distance: 580 km | Drive time: 8 hours with stops

What's Included

• Accommodation: 6 nights (4 nights in 4-star hotels/riads, 2 nights in luxury desert camp)
• Meals: 6 breakfasts, and 5 dinners (including special dinner at desert camp)
• Transportation: Premium, air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers
• Desert Experience: Camel trek in Erg Chebbi (one camel per person)
• Guided Tours: Expert English-speaking local guides in all imperial cities
• Entrance Fees: All admission fees to mentioned attractions and historical sites
• Cultural Experiences: Special access to local communities and traditional workshops
• Bottled Water: Provided throughout the journey
• All Taxes: All local taxes and service charges included

What's Not Included

• International Flights: Airfare to and from Morocco
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory
• Some Meals: Lunches and some dinners as specified in the itinerary
• Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, additional snacks, and personal purchases
• Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and camp staff
• Optional Activities: Any activities or experiences not mentioned in the itinerary
• Beverages: Alcoholic drinks and additional beverages beyond water with meals
• Visa Fees: If applicable to your nationality

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to take this tour?

The ideal times are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are most comfortable for both city exploration and desert travel. These seasons offer pleasant weather throughout the journey, with blooming landscapes in spring and golden hues in fall.

How physically demanding is this tour?

This is a moderate tour involving walking on uneven terrain in ancient medinas and archaeological sites. The camel ride is about 1-1.5 hours each way to the desert camp. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, but please inform us of any mobility concerns.

What should I pack for this diverse itinerary?

• Comfortable walking shoes with good grip for medinas and desert
• Light, breathable clothing for daytime
• Warm layers for cool desert nights
• Scarf or shawl for sun and sand protection
• Swimsuit (some hotels have pools)
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen)
• Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
• Personal medications and basic first aid
• Small backpack for day trips
• Electrical adapters (Type C and E)

What type of accommodation can I expect?

You'll stay in carefully selected 4-star hotels and traditional riads that combine modern comforts with authentic Moroccan architecture. The desert camp features comfortable tents with proper bedding and shared bathroom facilities.

Is there Wi-Fi and charging facilities?

Hotels and riads offer Wi-Fi, though speeds may vary. The desert camp has limited electricity, primarily in common areas. We recommend bringing a power bank for your devices.

What is the food like on the tour?

You'll enjoy a variety of traditional Moroccan cuisine, including tagines, couscous, and fresh salads. Meals are prepared with fresh, local ingredients. We can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.

How much free time is there during the tour?

The itinerary balances guided activities with free time to explore at your leisure, shop, or relax. You'll have free time in each imperial city to explore independently.

What is the cancellation policy?

Please refer to our booking terms and conditions for detailed cancellation policies. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellation.

Good to Know

• Physical Level: Moderate - involves walking on uneven terrain and sand dunes
• Group Size: Maximum 12 travelers for personalized experience
• Best Time to Visit: March-May & September-November for pleasant temperatures
• Accommodation: Mix of 4-star hotels, traditional riads, and luxury desert camp
• Packing Tips: Layers for varying temperatures, comfortable walking shoes, scarf for sand
• Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
• Language: Arabic (official), French widely spoken, English in tourist areas
• Time Zone: GMT/UTC +1

Booking Information

Contact our travel specialists for availability, pricing, and personalized itinerary adjustments.