10 Days Imperial Cities and Desert Tours

Traveling through Morocco offers a captivating mix of history, vibrant cities, and awe-inspiring desert scenery. This 10-day private tour from Luxury Travel Desert promises a comprehensive experience that combines Morocco’s imperial heritage with the magic of the Sahara. Based on glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, this trip is a fantastic choice for travelers looking for a well-rounded, immersive adventure.

What we especially like about this tour is its flexibility—it’s private, so you can tailor parts of it to suit your interests. The blend of guided city tours, stunning natural landscapes, and the authenticity of staying overnight in a desert camp really make it stand out. The tour also includes knowledgeable guides who seem to make a real difference, and the desert experience, especially the camel trek and star gazing, is a highlight. One potential consideration is the high cost, but for the level of personalized service and unique experiences, many might find it fully justified. This journey is best suited for those who want a deep dive into Morocco’s culture and landscapes without sacrificing comfort.

Key Points

• Tailored private experience allows for flexibility and personalized attention.
• Authentic encounters such as Moroccan cooking classes and Berber camp music.
• Stunning scenery including the Sahara dunes, Todgha Gorges, and Kasbahs.
• Expert guides enhance understanding with local insights and stories.
• Balanced itinerary combines city exploration with natural beauty.
• Luxury accommodation in hotels and desert tents provides comfort after long days.

Exploring the Itinerary: A Closer Look

Day 1-2: Casablanca and Rabat

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your arrival point, setting a comfortable tone from the start. In Casablanca, you’ll see a fascinating contrast—modern Art Deco architecture alongside centuries-old houses. The iconic Hassan II Mosque is a must-see, with its stunning oceanfront location and intricate details. According to reviewers, guides like Chaimae are often praised for their knowledge, making these city walks both educational and enjoyable.

Moving to Rabat, the current capital, you visit the Hassan Tower and the Mohamed V Mausoleum, both emblematic of Morocco’s imperial history. The Kasbah of Udaya provides sweeping views over the Bou Regreg River, which many travelers find especially picturesque. This segment offers a good mix of history, architecture, and vibrant city life, setting the scene for the broader cultural journey ahead.

Days 3-4: Chefchaouen and the Rif Mountains

Next, the tour takes you north to Chefchaouen, famously called the ‘Blue City’ for its vivid blue-washed streets and buildings. This place isn’t just a pretty picture—reviewers love the calm vibe and the chance to wander streets lined with local artisans. The nearby Akchour waterfalls add a natural highlight, where green landscapes and waterfalls make for rewarding walks and photo ops.

Traveling to Fez, you’ll explore the oldest and largest medina in Morocco. The guided walk through narrow alleyways, past artisans, tanneries, and ancient mosques, gives a real sense of Moroccan history. As one reviewer notes, the medina’s smells and sights are unforgettable, and the cooking class with a Moroccan family adds a warm, personal touch to the experience.

Day 5: The Cultural Heart of Fez

In Fez, the guided tour includes key sights like the medrassas (Islamic schools) and the lively artisan districts. The spectacular gates of the Royal Palace are a highlight, offering impressive photo opportunities. The evening’s cooking class and dinner with a local family give you a taste of Moroccan hospitality and cuisine, enriching your understanding of everyday life here.

Days 6-7: Sahara Desert and Merzouga

The journey continues into the Sahara, with a scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Midelt, a Berber village, is a pleasant stop for lunch and cultural insights. Arriving in Merzouga, the highlight is a camel trek into the dunes, where the soft sands and towering Erg Chabbi dunes create an almost otherworldly backdrop.

The desert camp experience is highly praised—reviewers mention staying in tents with private bathrooms and hot showers, along with the magical sunset and starry night. The live music and Berber hospitality create a memorable overnight stay. These moments of tranquility and natural beauty are why many travelers consider this part of the trip a true highlight.

Days 8-9: Ouarzazate and Marrakech

Early morning in the desert, witnessing the sunrise over the dunes, is described as a surreal experience—something many reviewers highlight as a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Afterwards, the tour heads to Todgha Gorges, a dramatic canyon with high vertical walls. The walk along the river beneath the cliffs offers a peaceful contrast to the desert’s vastness.

On the way to Marrakech, you stop at the Kalaa M’Gouna, famed for its roses, and visit the Kasbah of Taourirt in Ouarzazate. The film-friendly Ait Benhaddou Kasbah is a top draw, often seen in movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones, and is a striking piece of Morocco’s architectural history.

In Marrakech, the guided city tour takes you to the Koutoubia Minaret and the Bahia Palace. The vibrant Jamaa El Fna square, especially at sunset, is a sensory overload—full of storytellers, musicians, and food stalls, creating an atmosphere that many find magical.

Day 10: Departure

The tour concludes with a transfer back to Casablanca or your departure city, leaving you with a wealth of memories and a deeper understanding of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and culture.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This 10-day experience offers a comprehensive look at Morocco’s most iconic sites, but the real magic lies in the details. Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides, like Chaimae, who enhance the experience with local stories and insights. The inclusion of authentic activities, such as Moroccan cooking and music in the desert camp, elevates this beyond typical sightseeing.

The scenery diversity—from the bustling cities of Casablanca and Marrakech to the serene dunes of the Sahara and the rugged Todgha Gorges—means you’ll get a real sense of the country’s contrasts. The luxury accommodation in traditional riads and desert tents ensures comfort after long days of exploring.

The Value of the Experience

At over $35,000 per person, this tour is an investment. However, considering all included elements—private transportation, expert guides, 9 nights of accommodation, some meals, and unique experiences—the value is notable. Many travelers, like those in reviews, felt the price was justified for the quality and depth of the adventure.

Possible Drawbacks

The cost might be a barrier for some, and the itinerary involves quite a bit of travel, which could be tiring. But for those seeking a luxurious, personalized, and well-organized journey, these aspects are part of the overall experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a comprehensive, comfortable exploration of Morocco’s imperial cities and Sahara. It suits those who appreciate guided experiences, culture, and scenic adventures. If you’re after a flexible, private journey that balances sightseeing with authentic local interactions, this tour is a strong match.

Final Thoughts

This 10 Days Imperial Cities and Desert Tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances history, culture, and natural beauty. With knowledgeable guides and authentic activities, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Morocco’s diverse landscape and vibrant traditions. The desert night under the stars and the ancient kasbahs are memories many travelers cherish long after returning home.

While the price is on the higher side, the quality, scenery, and personal touch make it worth considering. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply craving an immersive Moroccan adventure, this tour is designed to leave you with a profound appreciation of this fascinating country.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the itinerary is designed to be accessible, although some walking and camel trekking are involved.

Does the tour include airport transfers?
Yes, airport arrival and departure are included, making logistics easier for travelers.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included for all 9 nights, and three dinners are included, but drinks, lunches, and some dinners are not covered.

Can the tour be customized?
Yes, since it is a private tour, it can be adjusted based on your preferences, departure point, and interests.

What type of accommodations are provided?
You’ll stay in hotels or traditional riads for nine nights, with a desert camp experience that includes private bathrooms and hot showers.

How experienced are the guides?
Reviewers mention guides like Chaimae, who are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the trip with local stories and insights.

What’s the highlight of this tour?
Many consider the Sahara desert experience—camel trek, desert camp, star gazing, and sunset—to be the most memorable part of the journey.

This 10-day Morocco tour offers a fantastic balance between guided discovery and authentic adventures, making it a great option for those eager to explore this captivating country in comfort and style.