This 12 days From Marrakech Imperial cities tour offers a complete journey through the country’s most iconic regions, from imperial cities and Atlantic coastlines to the High Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert. Starting in Casablanca or Marrakech, the itinerary combines history, culture, nature, and authentic local experiences. Each day reveals a different side of Morocco, blending guided visits with scenic drives and immersive cultural encounters.
Highlights 12 days From Marrakech Imperial cities tour
- Explore imperial cities including Marrakech, Fes, Meknes, and Rabat
- Discover the blue streets of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains
- Cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass
- Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like Aït Benhaddou
- Experience the Sahara Desert with a camel trek in Erg Chebbi
- Explore dramatic landscapes such as Todra Gorge and the Dades Valley
- Discover coastal gems including Essaouira and Asilah
- Enjoy guided cultural tours, traditional souks, kasbahs, and medinas
- Stay in authentic riads, hotels, and a Berber desert camp
- Combine history, adventure, and local Moroccan hospitality in one journey
Itinerary 12 days From Marrakech Imperial cities tour
Day 1 – Arrival in Marrakech
Arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport according to your flight schedule. First, complete immigration and customs procedures. Then, meet our local team for a warm welcome and assistance. After that, transfer to your riad in Marrakech, a vibrant imperial city full of history and culture. In addition, enjoy a smooth drive through the city as you get your first impressions of Morocco. Later, check in at your accommodation and take some time to relax. Moreover, settle into the peaceful atmosphere of the riad after your journey.
Finally, enjoy the evening at leisure. Dinner is free, so you may explore local restaurants or relax at your hotel. Consequently, overnight stay in Marrakech marks the beginning of your Moroccan adventure.
Day 2 – Marrakech City Tour
After breakfast, meet your local guide and begin exploring Marrakech. First, discover the historic medina and learn about the city’s Almoravid origins. Then, walk through the lively souks filled with spices, textiles, and handicrafts. In addition, experience the authentic atmosphere of daily Moroccan life. Next, arrive at the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa, the central square of the city. After that, enjoy its dynamic mix of storytellers, musicians, and food stalls. Moreover, see how it transforms into a vibrant open-air dining space in the evening.
Then, visit key monuments including the elegant Bahia Palace and the historic Saadian Tombs. In addition, admire the architecture and cultural heritage of these landmarks. Finally, explore the colorful streets of the medina before returning to your riad. Dinner is free. Consequently, overnight stay in Marrakech.
Day 3 – Marrakech to Boumalne Dades via High Atlas
After breakfast, depart from Marrakech and begin your journey toward the High Atlas Mountains. First, cross the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest mountain road in Morocco. Then, enjoy panoramic views of valleys, Berber villages, and rugged landscapes. In addition, stop along the way for photos and short breaks.
Next, visit the famous Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar known for its earthen architecture. After that, explore its ancient alleys and learn about its role in international films. Moreover, admire the surrounding desert scenery.Then, continue to Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa.” First, see the exterior of the Kasbah Taourirt and, if time allows, the Atlas film studios. In addition, experience the cinematic atmosphere of the region.
Finally, travel through the Valley of Roses and Skoura palm groves before arriving in Boumalne Dades. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel. Consequently, rest after a long but scenic day.
Day 4 – Boumalne Dades to Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, leave Boumalne Dades and start your journey through the dramatic valleys of southern Morocco. First, explore the impressive Dades Valley with its rocky formations and panoramic viewpoints. Then, continue toward the spectacular Todra Gorge, where towering cliffs create a narrow canyon. In addition, enjoy time to walk and take photos in this natural wonder.
Next, travel through traditional Berber villages and desert landscapes. After that, stop in Rissani, an ancient caravan town known for its lively souk and historical importance. Moreover, visit local markets and experience authentic desert culture. Then, continue toward Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. First, meet your camel team and prepare for the desert adventure. In addition, begin your camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Finally, watch the sunset over the dunes before reaching your desert camp. Dinner is served under the stars. Consequently, overnight stay in a traditional Berber tent in the Sahara.
Day 5 – Merzouga Desert Exploration
After an early wake-up in Merzouga, first head out to witness the sunrise over the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Then, enjoy the calm desert atmosphere as the light slowly changes across the sand. In addition, take time for photography and quiet reflection. Next, return to your accommodation for breakfast. After that, begin a full-day 4×4 exploration of the desert region. Moreover, travel across rocky plains known as the “black desert” and pass small Berber villages.
Then, visit local nomadic families to learn about their traditional lifestyle. In addition, share a cup of tea and discover how people live in this remote environment. After that, continue to Khamlia, a village known for Gnawa music. Next, enjoy a live musical performance by local musicians. Then, relax and experience the cultural rhythms of the Sahara. Finally, return to your hotel near the dunes. Dinner and overnight stay in Merzouga. Consequently, end the day with peaceful desert surroundings.
Day 6 – Merzouga to Meknes via Ziz Valley and Middle Atlas
After breakfast, leave Merzouga and begin a long journey north. First, cross the scenic Ziz Valley, known for its palm groves and oasis landscapes. Then, enjoy changing desert views as you move toward greener regions. In addition, stop along the way for photos and short breaks. Next, continue to Midelt, located between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. After that, take a break and enjoy lunch while surrounded by mountain scenery. Moreover, experience the cooler climate and natural landscapes of central Morocco. Then, drive through cedar forests near Azrou. First, observe the famous Barbary macaques in their natural habitat. In addition, pass through the alpine-style town of Ifrane, known for its clean architecture.
Finally, continue to Meknes, an imperial city rich in history. After arrival, check in to your riad and relax. Dinner and overnight stay in Meknes. Consequently, end a long but scenic travel day.
Day 7 – Meknes to Chefchaouen via Fes
After breakfast, leave Meknes and begin your journey north. First, travel toward Fes, one of Morocco’s most important imperial cities. Then, meet your local guide and start exploring the historic medina. In addition, discover its ancient streets, artisan quarters, and cultural landmarks. Next, visit key highlights such as traditional madrasas, historic mosques, and the famous tanneries. After that, walk through the bustling souks filled with crafts and local products. Moreover, experience the deep cultural and spiritual atmosphere of the city. Then, continue your journey toward the Rif Mountains. First, enjoy scenic landscapes along the way. In addition, pass through rural villages and rolling hills.
Finally, arrive in Chefchaouen, the famous “Blue City.” After check-in, enjoy free time to explore its charming medina. Dinner is free. Consequently, overnight stay in Chefchaouen.
Day 8 – Chefchaouen to Asilah via Tangier
After breakfast, enjoy free time in Chefchaouen, the famous Blue City. First, walk through its peaceful medina and admire the blue-and-white streets. Then, explore local artisan shops and scenic viewpoints. In addition, take time to enjoy the calm mountain atmosphere. Next, depart toward the north of Morocco. After that, travel through the Rif landscapes and small rural villages. Moreover, enjoy changing scenery as you approach the coast.
Then, arrive in Tangier, a historic port city between Africa and Europe. First, explore the old medina and its lively alleys. In addition, visit the Kasbah area and enjoy views over the Strait. After that, continue to Asilah, a charming seaside town known for its art and murals. Then, stroll through its quiet medina and coastal streets. Moreover, experience its relaxed and creative atmosphere. Finally, check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Dinner is free. Consequently, overnight stay in Asilah.
Day 9 – Asilah to Rabat
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning in Asilah. First, stroll through its peaceful medina and admire the colorful murals. Then, take time to enjoy the ocean views and quiet coastal atmosphere. In addition, explore small art galleries and artisan shops. Next, depart along the Atlantic coast toward the capital. After that, travel through scenic landscapes and coastal roads. Moreover, enjoy views of the ocean and rural countryside along the way.
Then, arrive in Rabat, the political and administrative capital of Morocco. First, visit the historic Kasbah of the Udayas and walk through its charming blue-and-white streets. In addition, enjoy panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean. Next, continue to important landmarks such as the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. After that, discover the city’s elegant blend of history and modernity. Finally, check in to your riad and relax. Dinner is free. Consequently, overnight stay in Rabat.
Day 10 – Rabat – Casablanca – Marrakech
After breakfast, depart from Rabat and head toward Casablanca. First, visit the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most iconic mosques in the world. Then, take time to admire its oceanfront location and architectural beauty. In addition, enjoy a guided visit of the monument if included. Next, continue your journey toward Marrakech. After that, travel through changing landscapes from coastal plains to inland scenery. Moreover, relax during the drive and reflect on your journey so far.
Finally, arrive in Marrakech and check in at your riad. Dinner is free. Consequently, overnight stay in Marrakech.
Day 11 – Marrakech – Essaouira – Marrakech
After breakfast, depart for Essaouira, a charming Atlantic coastal town. First, explore its relaxed medina, known for its artistic atmosphere and traditional crafts. Then, visit the lively fishing port with its blue boats and fresh seafood market. In addition, walk along the historic ramparts and enjoy ocean views from Skala du Port. Next, enjoy free time to discover the city at your own pace. After that, on the return journey, stop at a women’s cooperative producing argan oil. Moreover, learn about local traditions and sustainable production.
Finally, return to Marrakech in the late afternoon. Dinner is free. Consequently, overnight stay in your riad.
Day 12 – Departure from Marrakech
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning in Marrakech. First, complete check-out from your accommodation. Then, transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule. In addition, receive assistance if needed during departure procedures.
Finally, board your international flight. Consequently, your Morocco journey comes to an end.
Included 12 days From Marrakech Imperial cities tour
- Airport meet & assistance on arrival and departure
- All transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional driver throughout the tour
- Accommodation in hotels and riads (as per itinerary)
- 1 night in a Sahara desert camp (private Berber tent)
- Daily breakfast
- Selected dinners as mentioned in the program (desert and certain cities)
- Camel trek in the Sahara Desert (Erg Chebbi)
- Guided tours in major cities (Marrakech, Fes, Rabat, etc.)
- Visits to key sites (kasbahs, medinas, valleys, and scenic stops)
- Fuel, tolls, and parking fees
Excluded 12 days From Marrakech Imperial cities tour
- International flights
- Lunches and dinners not specified in the itinerary
- Entrance fees to monuments, museums, and historical sites
- Travel insurance (medical, cancellation, etc.)
- Personal expenses (drinks, shopping, laundry, etc.)
- Tips for driver, guides, and local staff
- Optional activities not mentioned in the program
FAQs 12 days From Marrakech Imperial cities tour
Is this a private tour?
Yes, this itinerary is organized as a private tour with a dedicated driver.
Are accommodations included?
Yes, hotels, riads, and one desert camp night are included.
Is the camel trek included?
Yes, a camel trek in the Sahara Desert (Erg Chebbi) is included.
Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to monuments and museums are not included.
Are meals included?
Daily breakfast is included, along with selected dinners. Lunches are not included.
Is travel insurance included?
No, travel insurance is not included but strongly recommended.
What type of transport is used?
A private, comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it is suitable for families, couples, and small groups.