Morocco Excursions: Visit The Imperial Cities And The Desert – 10 Days

Discovering Morocco’s Imperial Cities and Desert: A 10-Day Journey

If you’re dreaming of a trip that mixes bustling cities, ancient ruins, and vast desert landscapes, this 10-day private tour through Morocco might be just what you need. With a carefully curated itinerary that hits all the highlights, from Casablanca’s modern charm to Marrakech’s vibrant souks and the Sahara’s silent dunes, the experience promises a good balance of sightseeing, culture, and adventure.

What we love about this tour is its comprehensive coverage — it takes you across Morocco’s most iconic sites, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient medinas, and breathtaking mountain passes. The quality of the guides and drivers really shines, offering local insights and making the long drives feel more like travel experiences than just transportation. Plus, the opportunity to spend a night sleeping in a Bedouin-style tent under the stars is beyond memorable.

A potential consideration is the amount of time spent on the road—this isn’t a laid-back, slow-paced trip. You’ll cover a lot of ground each day, which might be tiring for some. However, if you’re eager to see as much as possible in a short span, this itinerary offers excellent value.

This trip suits travelers who love immersive, balanced itineraries that combine city life with natural beauty, especially those who appreciate good value for a rich experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: From exploring ancient ruins to sleeping in desert tents, this tour offers genuine Moroccan adventures.
• Diverse Highlights: Cities, mountains, ruins, and deserts—there’s a wide variety of scenery and culture packed into 10 days.
• Comfort & Convenience: An air-conditioned vehicle and private group make for a smooth, comfortable journey.
• Cultural Insights: Guides are knowledgeable and helpful in navigating bustling medinas and historic sites.
• Long Travel Days: Expect several 6-hour days on the road, but with planned stops and scenic routes.
• Value for Money: The price reflects a comprehensive, guided experience, including visits to UNESCO sites and unique activities like desert camping.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Casablanca’s Modern Charm & Historic Sights

Starting in the largest Moroccan city, you’ll get your first taste of Casablanca’s blend of modernity and history. The key highlight here is the Hassan II Mosque, a stunning architectural feat that can house 25,000 worshippers inside. While entrance tickets aren’t included, you’ll have time to admire its intricate details from outside—a photo op for sure.

Plus, you’ll visit Parc de la Ligue Arabe and the Casablanca Cathedral, both offering peaceful respites from the city’s hustle. If you’re feeling curious, the Old Medina and olive souk are accessible options, giving you a glimpse of local daily life.

Day 2: From Rabat’s Historic Old Town to Chefchaouen’s Blue Streets

Traveling north, Rabat offers a fascinating contrast of old and new. The Chellah Necropolis and Roman ruins set the tone for centuries of history, while the Kasbah des Oudaias provides picturesque views over the Atlantic. The Hassan Tower, still incomplete, is a symbol of the city’s Islamic architecture.

The journey then takes you through the Rif Mountains to the famous Blue City, Chefchaouen. The medina’s winding streets and blue-painted walls are as charming as they sound. Reviewers mention enjoying wandering the hillside medina, with one noting the abandoned Spanish Mosque as an unexpected highlight.

Day 3: From Roman Ruins to the Imperial Charm of Meknes and Fes

Today features Morocco’s ancient Roman site, Volubilis, a UNESCO site with well-preserved mosaics, including the famous ‘Labours of Hercules’. Walking among these ruins offers a tangible sense of history.

Next, Meknes impresses with Bab al-Mansour and Moulay Ismail’s mausoleum. The city’s imperial history is palpable, but the real treasure is arriving in Fes, where you’ll stay in a traditional riad. The evening is perfect for wandering the medina, with its Merenid Tombs and Mellah Jewish Quarter.

Day 4: Exploring Fes’s Timeless Medina

Fes el-Bali, one of the oldest medinas in Morocco, is a labyrinth of alleyways, markets, and artisans. Your guide will help you navigate this maze, pointing out hidden gems and explaining the significance of various sites. The medina’s authenticity remains intact, making it a favorite for those seeking genuine culture.

Day 5: The Sahara Awaits – Merzouga Desert

Leaving the historic cities behind, today’s drive takes you through cedar forests and the Apple City of Midelt. Lunch near the Moulouya River provides a peaceful break with scenic views.

Arriving at Erg Chebbi in the Sahara, you’ll spend the night in a Bedouin-style tent, a highlight for many travelers. As one reviewer put it, the clear night sky and the silence of the dunes create an almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Day 6: From Sahara to Todra Gorge and Khemliya Village

Waking up in the desert, you can opt for a sand dune tour or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Later, your journey takes you through Khemliya, a traditional Saharan village where you can experience local music, drumming, and dancing.

The Todra Gorge offers stunning canyon views, with towering cliffs and a cool oasis to relax in. Reviewers mention the gorge as a relaxing and scenic spot to unwind after days of travel.

Day 7: Kasbahs, Film Locations, and UNESCO Heritage

Today’s drive takes you through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, culminating at the Ksar of Aït-Ben-Haddou. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the most iconic kasbah in Morocco, famous for its appearance in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

The route through Boumalne Dades and Ouarzazate provides cinematic scenery, and the film studio tour offers an extra layer of cultural insight for film buffs.

Day 8 & 9: Marrakech—From Majorelle to the Mystical Souks

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, you’ll get jaw-dropping views of Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. Arriving in Marrakech, you’ll find a city buzzing with color, sounds, and smells.

The Jemaa el-Fna square is a highlight—street performers, food stalls, and market vendors create a lively atmosphere. Your guides will help you spot the Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, and the Majorelle Gardens. Reviewers note that exploring the souks is best with guidance, as they can be overwhelming but rewarding.

Day 10: Final Moroccan Moments & Return to Casablanca

Before heading back to Casablanca, you’ll have time to visit the Marrakech Museum, Almoravid Koubba, and the Museum of Moroccan Arts. These sites provide a cultural finish to your trip, highlighting Moroccan craftsmanship and architecture.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The length and variety of the itinerary allow you to see Morocco’s most famous sights without rushing. The inclusion of UNESCO sites like Volubilis and Aït-Ben-Haddou adds cultural depth, while the overnight in the desert provides a sense of adventure and tranquility.

Reviewers emphasize the quality of the transportation—an air-conditioned vehicle makes long drives comfortable, and the private group size ensures a personalized experience. The local guides are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, often sharing stories that you won’t find in guidebooks.

The value for money is clear once you realize that the tour covers entrances to major sites (though not all are included), hotel stays, and a variety of activities, including a desert camel ride and traditional music sessions, for a reasonable price.

The Desert Experience & Cultural Highlights

The desert night in a Bedouin tent gets special mention as the highlight, with one reviewer describing it as “beyond memorable.” The sand dune tour and starry night sky make for an authentic, almost magical experience you’ll never forget.

Exploring Morocco’s imperial cities—with their medinas, palaces, and mosques—provides a window into the country’s long history. The journey through the High Atlas mountain pass offers breathtaking views, and the cosmopolitan vibe of Marrakech introduces you to Morocco’s lively contemporary culture.

Practicalities & Considerations

While the tour offers a rich experience, expect long travel days—most days involve about 6 hours on the road. This is ideal for travelers eager to see a wide range of sights, but those seeking a more leisurely pace might find it a bit exhausting.

The cost of around $1,815 per person includes guided visits, transport, and some accommodations, but remember that entrance fees are not included. The tour operates on a private basis, meaning your group will have exclusive access, which enhances comfort and flexibility.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for history buffs and culture lovers eager to explore Morocco’s most iconic sites in one trip. It also appeals to adventurous souls looking to spend nights under the stars in the Sahara. Because of the pace and coverage, energetic travelers who don’t mind long days will find it rewarding.

If you’re after a well-organized, insightful journey with a mix of city, mountain, and desert experiences, this tour ticks all the boxes. It offers a good blend of guided sightseeing, personal discovery, and authentic Moroccan moments, all wrapped in comfort and convenience.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The tour covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, private group arrangements, guided sightseeing, and overnight stays in riads and desert tents. Entrance tickets are not included but can be purchased separately.

How long are the travel days?
Most days involve approximately 6 hours on the road, with scenic stops along the way. The longest days are well-managed with planned breaks and sightseeing.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience only for your group, which means more intimacy and flexibility during your trip.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there’s room for some customization, but the core itinerary is fixed. You can discuss preferences with the tour provider beforehand.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothes for city exploring and desert nights, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a hat. Nights in the desert can be cool, so pack accordingly.

Are meals included?
Meals are not specified as included in the package, but most hotels and riads will provide breakfast, and there may be options for lunch and dinner along the way.

Is there an age limit?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to confirm specific age or health restrictions with the tour provider.

What language are guides speaking?
Guides are knowledgeable and helpful, generally speaking English, and providing cultural and historical insights.

Is tipping customary?
Tipping is appreciated for guides and drivers, especially if they enhance your experience.

Will I have free time?
Yes, the itinerary includes periods where you can explore independently, such as in Marrakech’s medina or Casablanca’s Old Medina.

Final Thoughts

This 10-day Morocco tour offers a balanced, immersive experience into the country’s most celebrated sites and landscapes. From the vibrant souks of Marrakech to the tranquil sands of the Sahara, every day brings new sights and stories. The combination of cultural highlights, scenic drives, and authentic overnight stays makes it a compelling choice for travelers keen on a comprehensive Moroccan adventure.

While the pace is energetic with many 6-hour travel days, the quality of guides, the diverse scenery, and the chance to sleep under the stars in the desert make it well worth the effort. It’s a fantastic way to see Morocco’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty in just 10 days.

This tour caters best to those who want an active, all-encompassing experience, value culturally rich moments, and don’t mind spending significant time on the move. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a blend of history, adventure, and comfort—all wrapped into one memorable trip.