Is 9 days enough to visit the Imperial Cities and the Sahara?

Yes. Nine days is enough to visit Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Meknes, Marrakech, and the Sahara Desert at a comfortable pace, with one night in the dunes and time for major highlights in each city.

What is the best time of year to do this trip?

The best months are March–May and September–November when temperatures are mild. Summer can be very hot in the desert, and winter nights in the Sahara are cold.

Will the Sahara Desert night be too cold or too hot?

Summer (Jun–Aug): Very hot days but pleasant nights. Winter (Dec–Feb): Comfortable days but cold nights (0–7°C).Most camps provide heavy blankets and warm tents.

How long is the drive from Fes to the Sahara?

It’s a 7–8 hour drive with scenic stops. It’s a long day, but the landscapes and the desert experience make it worthwhile.

9-Day Morocco Itinerary: Imperial Cities + Sahara Desert

Transportation
Bus, Airlines
Accomodation
3 Stars Hotels
Departure from
Casablanca
Best season
Feb, Mar, Apr & May
Tour type
Cultural
Meals
Daily breakfast , half board in desert
Language
English, Spanish, French,
Fitness level
Easy
Group Size
2-15
Minimum Age
12
Maximum Age
65

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

This itinerary takes you through Morocco’s most important historical capitals Rabat, Fes, Meknes, Marrakech combined with the dramatic landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains and the unforgettable Sahara Desert.
You’ll experience centuries of culture, ancient medinas, Roman ruins, desert dunes, gorges, and vibrant cities.

Highlights

The 2-day Mount Toubkal trek is a fast but rewarding ascent to the highest peak in North Africa at 4,167 m. Starting from the village of Imlil, the route climbs through Berber valleys, past the pilgrimage site of Sidi Chamharouch, and up to the Toubkal Refuge, where trekkers spend the night. The challenge of the hike comes mainly from the altitude and steep ascent on summit day, but the trail itself is well-marked and manageable for fit hikers. Clear weather offers spectacular views over the High Atlas range, making it one of Morocco’s most popular short treks.
2. Chefchaouen (The Blue City) Wander through picturesque blue-painted streets Panoramic views from the Spanish Mosque
3. Volubilis & Meknes Explore Roman ruins with mosaics in Volubilis See Meknes landmarks like Bab Mansour and the Royal Stables
4. Fes – Ancient Imperial City Get lost in the UNESCO-protected medina Visit Al-Qarawiyyin University (world's oldest) See the colorful Chouara tanneries
5. Sahara Desert (Merzouga) Cross cedar forests & Atlas mountains Camel trek through golden dunes Sleep in a luxury desert camp under the stars Experience traditional music around the campfire

Day 01 :

Casablanca → Rabat

Arrive in Casablanca and visit the impressive Hassan II Mosque before traveling to Rabat. Explore the capital’s highlights, including the Kasbah of the Udayas and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and enjoy a relaxed evening in this calm coastal city.

Day 02 :

Rabat → Chefchaouen

Drive north toward the Rif Mountains to reach Chefchaouen, the famous Blue City. Spend the afternoon wandering its charming blue-washed streets and enjoy a beautiful sunset from the Spanish Mosque viewpoint.

Day 03 :

Chefchaouen → Volubilis → Meknes → Fes

Leave Chefchaouen and head to Volubilis to explore its ancient Roman ruins. Continue to Meknes for a quick visit to its grand gates and historic sites before finishing the day with your arrival in Fes.

Day 04 :

Fes (Full Day)

Spend the day discovering the medieval city of Fes, known for its labyrinthine alleys, historic madrasas, vibrant artisan quarters, and the famous Chouara tanneries. Immerse yourself in the culture of one of Morocco’s greatest imperial cities.

Day 05 :

Fes → Sahara Desert (Merzouga)

Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing cedar forests and lush valleys, until you reach the Sahara. Ride camels into the golden dunes of Merzouga and finish the day with dinner and stargazing at a desert camp.

Day 06 :

Sahara → Todra Gorge → Dades Valley

Wake up early to catch sunrise over the dunes before traveling west toward Todra Gorge, where you can walk between its towering rock walls. Continue to the scenic Dades Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes and kasbahs.

Day 07 :

Dades → Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou → Marrakech

Drive through southern Morocco’s cinematic landscapes, visiting Ouarzazate and the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass, arriving in Marrakech by evening.

Day 08 :

Marrakech (Full Day)

Explore Marrakech’s vibrant medina, historic palaces, and colorful souks. Visit highlights such as the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and Jemaa el-Fnaa, or relax in a garden or traditional hammam.

Day 09 :

Departure

Enjoy some free time in Marrakech before your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you can shop in the souks or enjoy a final Moroccan breakfast before heading to the airport.

9-Day Morocco Itinerary: Imperial Cities + Sahara Desert

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

The Cost Includes

The Cost Excludes

FAQs

Map

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Mount Toubkal – 2-Day Trek

3 Days from Marrakech to Merzouga