07 Days Tour to Sahara Desert and Imperial Cities from Marrakech

Setting out on a 7-day journey through Morocco, from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the sweeping dunes of the Sahara, offers a truly memorable adventure. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing review from a traveler who did can help paint a vivid picture of what to expect.

What makes this experience appealing? First, it offers a well-balanced mix of desert adventure and cultural exploration—think camel rides and starry desert nights alongside visits to UNESCO-listed kasbahs and ancient medinas. Second, the guides and drivers seem to be a real highlight, with travelers praising their knowledge, professionalism, and friendliness. Lastly, the tour’s ability to combine scenic landscapes with immersive local traditions makes it perfect for those craving an authentic taste of Morocco.

One thing to consider is the long hours of traveleach day, often exceeding 16 hours, which might be tiring for some. But if you’re prepared for a full-on exploration and are comfortable with group touring logistics, this trip offers extraordinary value. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a curated, comprehensive experience that hits all Morocco’s key sights in a manageable timeframe.

This tour is best suited for those with a sense of adventure, a love of history and culture, and a desire to see Morocco’s scenic diversity—mountains, gorges, deserts, and imperial cities—without the hassle of planning each step.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Camel rides, desert camping, visits to local nomad families, and exploring UNESCO sites.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, courteous drivers and guides enhance the journey.
• Scenic Diversity: From Atlas mountains and rose valleys to Roman ruins and bustling medinas.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers Morocco’s imperial cities, scenic gorges, and Sahara dunes.
• Travel Comfort: Air-conditioned vehicles, private transportation, and half-board accommodation.
• Long Days, Rich Rewards: Expect full days of sightseeing, often over 16 hours, but packed with memorable sights.

An In-Depth Look at the 7-Day Morocco Tour

Starting in Marrakech: The Gateway to Adventure

Your journey kicks off with a pick-up from Marrakech Airport and a chance to explore the city’s vibrant souks, historic palaces, and lively squares. While the tour’s base is Marrakech, the official activities begin on Day 2.

Day 2: The Road to Ouarzazate via Tizi n Tichka

Traveling from Marrakech, you’ll traverse the famous Tizi n Tichka pass, renowned for its breathtaking mountain views and winding roads. Stops for photos and a visit to the Kasbah Glaoui in Telouet provide insight into Morocco’s aristocratic past. This part of the trip highlights the stunning scenery of the Atlas Mountains and the rural life of mountain villages.

The highlight is Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic ksar, made of earthen clay, feels like stepping into a film set—it’s no coincidence that many Hollywood productions have shot here. Walking through its labyrinth of alleys, you get a real sense of Morocco’s architectural heritage and ancient trade routes.

Day 3: Roses, Gorges, and Scenic Drives

The day begins in the Valley of the Roses, famous for its fragrant rose water and picturesque landscapes. Travelers note the opportunity to visit a rose distillery, such as the Sté Florose factory, which offers insight into traditional Moroccan artisanal production.

Next, a visit to Tinghir and the Todgha Gorges reveals some of Morocco’s most striking natural scenery. These towering limestone canyon walls carved by rivers create perfect photo ops and a feeling of awe. The gorges are often described as a highlight, with travelers appreciating their dramatic beauty and the chance to stretch their legs after hours on the road.

Day 4 & 5: The Imperial City of Fez

Crossing the Middle Atlas, you’ll arrive in Fez, often called Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart. The journey here involves passing through cedar forests, where monkeys might show up for a quick selfie, and the charming town of Ifrane, known for its European-style architecture.

In Fez, the tour dives into its labyrinthine medina, the oldest university (Karaouiyine), and the Medersa Bouaananiya. Here, the focus is on medieval architecture, bustling markets, and local craftsmanship. Tourists praise the guides’ knowledge, with one mentioning how they “walked through the old Berber markets and got a real taste of local life.” Staying overnight in a traditional riad ensures a cozy, authentic experience.

Day 6: Meknes and Roman Ruins

Next, the route takes you to Meknes, a city with a regal past. Key sights include Bab Mansour, a grand imperial gate, and the Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail. The Heri es-Souani stables give a glimpse into the grandeur of the sultan’s court, though some visitors note that exploring the ruins requires a bit of imagination.

Nearby, Volubilis offers a fascinating peek into Morocco’s Roman history. The well-preserved ruins, surrounded by wheat fields, are ideal for those interested in archaeology or history buffs. The site’s visibility from surrounding hills makes it a striking photo spot.

Day 7: From Rabat to Casablanca and Marrakech

The final day involves a scenic drive to Rabat, Morocco’s modern capital. Visiting the Kasbah of the Udayas and the Hassan II Mosque (from outside, as interior visits are not included) provides a glimpse into contemporary Moroccan life and religion.

On the way back, you’ll stop in Casablanca for a quick lunch and sightseeing before returning to Marrakech. The day’s long but rewarding, wrapping up this comprehensive adventure.

The Experience: What You’ll Love

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the guides and drivers. Soufian, the guide mentioned, was described as knowledgeable, courteous, and attentive. His insights made the history and culture come alive, and he was always ready to answer questions or recommend local eateries.

The scenic variety is another major plus. From the mountain passes and lush valleys to the desert dunes and ancient medinas, each stop offers something different. Travelers love the views of the Atlas Mountains and the stunning gorges, which look like they belong on a postcard.

The desert experience is often highlighted as a highlight — riding camels at sunset, sleeping in traditional tents, and sitting around campfires under a star-filled sky. One reviewer noted, “Sleeping in the desert camp was magical, and the guides made sure we felt safe and comfortable throughout.”

Food and local culture are woven into the experience, with travelers appreciating opportunities to visit nomad families and learn about Moroccan traditions firsthand. The half-board accommodation ensures you’re well-fed with hearty Moroccan cuisine, while the camel rides add a touch of adventure.

Practical Details and Value

At $1,677.93 per person, this tour offers a lot of value for those wanting a comprehensive Moroccan experience without the stress of planning. The price includes private transportation, accommodation, guided visits, camel rides, and some meals, making it a convenient package.

While the days are long, each moment is curated to maximize your exposure to Morocco’s highlights. The air-conditioned vehicles and WiFi on board help keep travelers comfortable and connected during the journey.

Since the tour is private and only for your group, it offers a more personalized experience. The group discounts are a nice bonus if traveling with friends or family.

Considerations

• Be prepared for long travel days; some may find the 16-hour days tiring.
• Entrance fees are not included at major sites, so budget accordingly if you wish to visit everything.
• The tour’s focus on scenic and cultural highlights means some regions’ exploration may be more superficial than in longer, more detailed trips.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This 7-day Moroccan adventure suits first-time visitors who want a broad overview of the country’s most iconic sights. It’s perfect for adventurers eager to see the Sahara, explore ancient cities, and experience local traditions—all in a manageable timeframe.

Travelers who appreciate guided tours with local insights will find the guides’ knowledge invaluable. Those looking for a comfortable, hassle-free way to see Morocco’s highlights will also enjoy the private transportation and accommodation arrangements.

FAQ

Is transportation comfortable on this tour?
Yes, the journey is conducted in air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during long hours on the road.

Are meals included?
Half-board accommodation is provided, which includes breakfast and dinner. Lunch is not included, so you might want to budget for meals on your own.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there might be some flexibility, but the itinerary is fixed based on the package described.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, a hat, and layers for temperature changes between mountains and desert.

Is the desert camping comfortable?
Yes, tents are provided with mattresses and blankets. Travelers report feeling safe and enjoying the experience, especially under the starry sky.

How long are the sightseeing days?
Expect days that can last over 16 hours, depending on activity and travel schedule, but they are full of diverse and immersive experiences.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for some sites like the medina and Roman ruins are not included, so plan to budget for these if you want to visit.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say children are welcome but should be comfortable with long travel days and outdoor activities like camel riding.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
The guides provide historical context, help with logistics, and ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey.

Is tipping expected?
Tipping is customary in Morocco; consider tipping guides and drivers if you’re satisfied with their services.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day tour offers a memorable, well-rounded introduction to Morocco’s diverse landscapes, ancient architecture, and vibrant culture. With expert guides, scenic drives, and immersive activities like camel rides and visits to historic sites, it’s designed for travelers seeking a hassle-free yet authentic Moroccan experience.

While the long days and travel distances might challenge some, the richness of sights and stories you’ll encounter more than compensate. Whether you’re marveling at the dunes of Sahara or strolling through medinas of imperial cities, this trip promises a deep, rewarding look at Morocco’s soul.

If you want a comprehensive, guided experience that balances scenery with culture, and are ready for a bit of adventure and long hours, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s best for those who value expert insights, scenic variety, and cultural authenticity in their Moroccan journey.