8D7N Marrakech – Imperial Cities + Sahara Desert

At A Glance

Unveiling the Wonders of Morocco: A Journey from the Imperial Cities to the Sahara

Discover the captivating beauty of Morocco on a 7-night, 8-day adventure that takes you from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the serene dunes of the Sahara Desert. This journey offers a rich tapestry of landscapes and culture, highlighting the diverse allure of this enchanting country.

Your adventure begins in Marrakech, a city famed for its vibrant hues and bustling markets. Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, you will be greeted warmly and transferred to your hotel. The exploration of Marrakech starts with visits to iconic landmarks such as the Koutoubia Mosque, the splendid Bahia Palace, and the tranquil Menara Gardens. Wander through the lively Djemaa el-Fna square, where the vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by street performers, market stalls, and an array of local food vendors. The maze-like souks and medina offer a sensory overload of spices, crafts, and traditional Moroccan life.

From Marrakech, journey through the dramatic High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi-n-Tichka pass. This scenic route offers breathtaking panoramic views and leads you to the ancient Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its striking architecture and cinematic history. Continuing on, you will arrive in Ouarzazate, a gateway to the Sahara, where the rugged beauty of the desert landscape is your backdrop for the night.

The next leg of your journey takes you to Tinghir, where you will explore the stunning Todra Gorges. Known for their towering cliffs and lush oases, the gorges are a highlight of the Moroccan desert landscape. Pass through the Valley of Roses, famous for its rosewater products, before reaching Erfoud and then Merzouga. In Merzouga, the vast sand dunes of the Sahara Desert beckon. Experience the tranquil beauty of the desert with an overnight stay in a desert hotel and witness the sunset over the golden dunes.

Travel north to Fez, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. The medina of Fez is a labyrinth of history, featuring ancient madrasas like the Bouanania and the vibrant Nejjarine Fountain. After exploring Fez, head to Chefchaouen, the Blue City, known for its distinctive blue-washed buildings and peaceful ambiance. Continue your journey to Tangier, where you will enjoy a coastal orientation tour, visiting Cap Spartel and the Hercules Caves, which offer stunning views where the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet.

In Tangier, you will then travel to Casablanca, concluding your Moroccan adventure. In Casablanca, visit the impressive Hassan II Mosque and the scenic La Corniche, offering a serene seaside retreat. Your journey ends with a transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure.

This itinerary invites you to experience the essence of Morocco, blending historical richness, cultural vibrancy, and natural splendor into a memorable journey through its imperial cities and the majestic Sahara Desert.

Destination Highlights

Itinerary Overview

  • Day 01: Arrival in Marrakech
    – Arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport
    – Transfer to the hotel for check-in, dinner, and overnight stay (Standard check-in time: 15:00)

 

  • Day 02: Explore Marrakech
    – Breakfast at the hotel
    – Begin the city tour of Marrakech, the “Red City”
    – Visit Koutoubia Mosque (outside), Menara Gardens, and Bahia Palace (entrance included)
    – Optional lunch at a local restaurant
    – Continue to explore Djemaa el-Fna Square, the Souks, and the Medina
    – Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight

 

  • Day 03: Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou & Ouarzazate
    – Breakfast at the hotel
    – Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass (2260m), with panoramic stops for photos
    – Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
    – Optional lunch at a local restaurant
    – Continue to Ouarzazate
    – Check-in at the hotel for dinner and overnight

 

  • Day 04: Ouarzazate to Tinghir, Todra Gorges & Merzouga
    – Breakfast at the hotel
    – Travel to Tinghir
    – Optional lunch at a local restaurant
    – Explore the stunning Todra Gorges
    – Pass through the Valley of Roses, famous for locally made cosmetic products
    – Arrival in Erfoud and transfer to Merzouga
    – Check-in, dinner, and overnight stay

 

  • Day 05: Merzouga to Fez via Midelt & Ifrane
    – Breakfast at the hotel
    – Cross the Atlas Mountains towards Midelt
    – Optional lunch at a local restaurant
    – Visit Ifrane, known as the “Little Switzerland of Africa”
    – Arrive in Fez for check-in, dinner, and overnight

 

  • Day 06: Fez to Chefchaouen & Tangier
    – Breakfast at the hotel
    – Half-day tour of Fez, including the medina, Bou Inania Medersa (entrance), Nejjarine Fountain, and Karaouiyine Mosque
    – Optional lunch at a local restaurant
    – Continue to Chefchaouen for an orientation tour, then proceed to Tangier
    – Check-in at the hotel for dinner and overnight

 

  • Day 07: Tangier to Casablanca
    – Breakfast at the hotel
    – Morning orientation tour of Tangier, including Boulevard Pasteur, Plaza of France, and the diplomatic neighborhoods
    – Visit Cap Spartel, Hercules Caves, and the iconic Door of Africa
    – Optional lunch at a local restaurant
    – Departure to Casablanca, with a short stop at Hassan II Mosque (outside view) and La Corniche
    – Check-in at the hotel for dinner and overnight

 

  • Day 08: Departure from Marrakech
    – Breakfast at the hotel
    – Transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure flight

 

 

  • Package Inclusions
    – Airport transfers with driver and Rida Representative
    – 7 nights’ accommodation in standard rooms
    – Half-board (7 breakfasts & 7 dinners)
    – Private transportation for the entire tour
    – Guided tours in Marrakech, Fez, Ait Ben Haddou, and Chefchaouen
    – Entrance fees to Bahia Palace and Bou Inania Medersa
    – All applicable taxes and service charges

 

  • Package Exclusions
    – Water at the hotel
    – Lunches (optional)
    – 4×4 & camel rides in Merzouga
    – Drinks at hotels and restaurants
    – Luggage porterage at airports and hotels
    – Tips for drivers, guides, and camel handlers
    – Personal expenses
    – Services not mentioned above

 

Additional Information

  • Weather & Best Time to Travel
    – Best Season: March to May and September to October, with warm days (25-35°C) and cooler nights (13-17°C).
    – Shoulder Season: Mid-November to mid-February, with daytime temperatures between 15-25°C, but chilly nights.
    – Hot Season: Mid-June to August, with temperatures in Marrakech and the south reaching up to 45°C, though it is cooler in the mountains and along the coast.

 

  • What to Pack
    – Layered clothing for temperature fluctuations.
    – Long-sleeved shirts for sun protection.
    – Fleece/jumper for cooler evenings.
    – Comfortable walking shoes/boots.
    – Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunblock.
    – Women should bring a scarf for visits to religious sites.
    – Plug adapter for 127/220V, 50Hz.

 

  • Religion & Etiquette
    Morocco is a country of tolerance where Jews, Christians, and Muslims coexist peacefully, but the official religion is Islam.

 

  • Money & Currency
    – Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
    – ATMs: Available in most towns.
    – Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted, even in some souks.
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