This is Morocco’s most popular sightseeing tour. On a 5-day journey to Merzouga from Rabat, you will explore the country’s four Imperial Cities: Rabat, Meknes, Fez, and Marrakech. Each city served as the capital of a ruling dynasty at some point in history and preserves a rich cultural and architectural heritage. Discover ancient mosques, Koranic schools, medieval streets, and bustling souks. Immerse yourself in Morocco’s history and experience a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. You can also choose your Imperial Cities tour starting from Fes.
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Typically in the afternoon to allow for a camel ride at sunset and dinner
Arabic, English, French, Spanish
Day 1: Rabat – Meknes – Volubilis – Fes
Pick-up from your hotel in Rabat and drive to Meknes. Visit the Bab Mansour Gate and explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Volubilis, the Roman ruins. Continue to Fes and tour the Medina with a local guide, including Attarine Medersa, Karaouine Mosque & University, and Bab Boujloud. Overnight in a local hotel with breakfast and dinner included.
Day 2: Fes – Ifrane – Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
Depart from Fes, passing through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane (“Little Switzerland”) and the cedar forests to spot Barbary Macaques. Continue through Midelt for lunch and the Ziz Valley, then Erfoud, before reaching the Erg Chebbi dunes. Overnight in a luxurious desert camp with Berber dinner under the stars.
Day 3: Explore Merzouga Desert
Spend the day exploring the Sahara in a 4×4, visiting nomad families, Khamlia village for Gnawa music, and the Rissani market. After lunch, enjoy a camel trek across the dunes at sunset. Relax at the camp with a traditional dinner and optional campfire music.
Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani – Boumalne Dades
Wake up for sunrise over the dunes, try sandboarding, and ride camels back. Travel to Dades Valley, stopping at the Kheterra irrigation system, and visit the Todra Gorge. Arrive in Dades Valley for panoramic views and overnight stay.
Day 5: Boumalne Dades – Ouarzazate – Marrakech
Visit Skoura oasis, the Kasbah of Taouirt, and Ait Ben Haddou (famous filming location for movies like Gladiator). Cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m) to Marrakech and transfer to your accommodation, concluding your private tour.
