Imperial Cities & Deserts
PRIVATE TOUR: Soak up the atmosphere of Marrakech's famous Djemaa el Fna, explore Ait Benhaddou and the legendary fortified Kasbah, star gaze in the vast and silent Sahara Desert and step back in time exploring the world's oldest medieval city, Fes.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Vibrant Marrakesh
Day 1 Vibrant Marrakesh
Arrival in Marrakech Airport, where you will be met by your On The Go representative and transferred to your hotel or riad in the centre of town. Meet your guide for a tour briefing and then spend the rest of the day at leisure. Opt to independently explore the vibrant Djemaa el Fna Square this evening and enjoy the snake charmers, story tellers, food stalls and souks all in full swing.
Day 2 The Old Medina of Marrakech
Day 2 The Old Medina of Marrakech
This morning enjoy a guided tour of Marrakech, taking in all of the highlights of the Medina (old city centre), the Koutoubia Mosque, palaces, souks and the old Mellah (Jewish Quarter). This afternoon, perhaps take a visit to the peaceful Jardins de Majorelle or simply relax at your hotel.
Day 3 Aït Benhaddou & Ouarzazate
Day 3 Aït Benhaddou & Ouarzazate
Marrakech - Aït Benhaddou - Ouarzazate. It's an early start today when the transportation and your mountain guide arrives at your hotel to take you to the desert! From the flat plain of Haouz, the route climbs southwards and up to the passes of the High Atlas Mountains. Along twisty roads with marvellous views and over the high point before descending to the rocky red foothills near Ouarzazate.
En route to Ouarzazate we’ll explore Ait Benhaddou, an ancient fortified city boasting beautiful examples of Kasbahs, some of which remain inhabited today. Granted UNESCO World Heritage Listing, the site has been the setting for many films, including Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator. Spend the night in Ouarzazate, the film capital of Morocco.
Day 4 Discover the Sahara
Day 4 Discover the Sahara
Ouarzazate - Erg Chebbi sand dunes. The journey continues along the valley of the Roses and the Skoura Oasis, passing Amerdhil Kasbah. Stop for lunch at the scenic Gorge du Dades before continuing towards the Sarhro Mountains and watch for the first signs of the Sahara. Along the route there are Khettara, the ancient wells dug by the nomads to find water, now dry. Finally we reach Merzouga at the foot of the great sand dune Erg Chebbi. Time to take in the mesmerising the sun set and watch the sand change colour as night falls.
Day 5 Opt for a Saharan camel trek
Day 5 Opt for a Saharan camel trek
Erg Chebbi - Merzouga. Enjoy a relaxing day at leisure. Perhaps climb up Erg Chebbi before dawn to see the sunrise over the dunes, or enjoy a lie in and take a camel trek across the rolling sand dunes later in the afternoon.
Day 6 Scenic drive to Fes
Day 6 Scenic drive to Fes
Merzouga - Fes. Today we take a long but very scenic drive, heading north from the desert and up into the High Atlas, past Ziz Gorge. Passing Midelt, the route crosses a grassy plain (in winter) where Nomads of the tribe Ait Atta Tafoukht can be seen pitching their tents and finding grazing grounds for their camels and goats. The road carries on over the next set of mountains, the Middle Atlas and another facet of Morocco is seen, the Cedar Forests. These ancient forests cloak the hills and are inhabited by monkeys, wild boar and deer. Finally we descend into Ifrane (a swiss style town and ski resort) and continue onward to Fes.
Day 7 Medieval Fes
Day 7 Medieval Fes
Fes is the oldest and largest medieval city in the world and a bustling hive of activity. This morning, we take a guided tour around the incredible, old medina - a heady mix of aromas, sounds and sights from the tanneries, spice tubs, pottery and donkeys! Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore independently – a photographers delight…
Day 8 Roman city of Volubilis
Day 8 Roman city of Volubilis
Fes - Volubilis - Rabat. Today we leave Fes to see the ruins of the Roman city of Volubilis, past the fields of lentils and chickpeas, into the hills around this well preserved city where it’s possible to explore the mosaics and forum. After lunch, we will pass Moulay Idriss and set off for Rabat. Spend the night in the capital of Morocco.
Day 9 Djemaa el Fna by night
Day 9 Djemaa el Fna by night
Rabat - Marrakech. We will have free time this morning to explore Rabat before heading back past Casablanca to Marrakech. Arriving into Marrakech early evening, there will be time for you to do some last minute souvenir shopping!
Day 10 Marrakech
Day 10 Marrakech
All good things must come to an end and it's time to head home. Transfer to airport included.
Should you wish to further explore Marrakech or any of Morocco's other cities or sights, please enquire so we can arrange the perfect holiday for you.
For information about visas, top travel tips and much more, take a look through our travel guide.
Tour Highlights
Included
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Prices & Dates
Hotels
Guests can expect a very comfortable stay at the Adam Park Hotel & Spa. Each of the elegant rooms feature a patio or balcony with views of the surrounding area. Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining. Several restaurants offer a variety of options including Italian specialities, Moroccan favourites and international cuisine. There are also plenty of ways to unwind after a day exploring Marrakech, with an outdoor pool, fitness centre and a spa offering rejuvenating massage treatments.
Formerly a princely residence, the Riad Palais des Princesses is a timeless gem hidden behind the walls of the medina. Fully refurbished 5 years ago it is now an exclusive residence with just 17 rooms. Guest rooms are decorated in a charming and comfortable style with traditional furnishings and bright interiors. There is free wi-fi available throughout and fitness facilities. The rooftop terrace is a great place to sip some tea and enjoy the endless view of the city and the Atlas Mountains in the background. Well located in the centre of Marrakech close to the famous Djema El Fna souk in the city's medina.
Traditional and stylish, the Riad Imilchil is a beautiful example of boutique Moroccan accommodation. The 6 rooms and 1 suite are beautifully decorated with colourful interiors and gorgeous en suites. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout and there is a stunning rooftop terrace where guests can view the whole of the city whilst enjoying a refreshing drink. At night you can view the famous Djemma El Fna pulsating in the distance. Well located, just 10 minute walk into the centre of the Medina.
Ksar Ben Youssef is a newly built, traditional hotel located just 5kms from the centre of Ouarzazate. Offering 18 spacious air-conditioned rooms, with a variety of bedding configurations. Its large pool, overlooked by a rooftop terrace with shady nooks, is the perfect respite from the desert heat. Guests can enjoy a buffet style breakfast from the on-site restaurant or dine on one of the many terraces.
Nestled in the heights of Ouarzazate's old district of Ait kdif, Dar Amoudou is a guest house with nine traditional styled rooms that offer all the modern comforts of a luxury hotel including; air conditioning, heating, free Wi-Fi, satellite channels and of course, en-suite facilities. Offering breathtaking views of Ouarzazate and the Atlas Mountains, the attractive terrace is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the magical surroundings, whilst also enjoying traditional Moroccan cuisine.
Uniquely located for easy access to experience camel trekking and the sand dunes of the vast Sahara Desert, hiking scenic trails or bird watching (including flamingo's) at Lake Dayet Srij. Riad Azawad offers a comfortable respite with its wonderful views, swimming pool, bar and restaurant. The bespoke spacious rooms include WiFi, private bathroom, air conditioning and heating. The friendly staff look forward to welcoming you to experience their hospitability and the beautiful surrounds.
Riad al Bartal, which means the house of Fez, is a beautiful, tranquil riad inspired by the architecture of Arabia and Andalusia. The stunning courtyard and the striking, spacious rooms decorated in typical Moroccan style all provide guests with the ultimate sense of calm. Materials such as marble, mosaic and cedar wood add to the charm of the property. In keeping with its appearance, guests can enjoy fine Moroccan cuisine prepared with seasonal produce on the flower-filled terrace. The riad is just one block from the main entrance of the medina.
Located in the heart of the animated souks of Fes, Riad Reda combines traditional Moroccan design with modern air-conditioned rooms. Each room has a private bathroom and free WiFi is provided throughout the property. In the evening guests can enjoy dinner in the exquisitely decorated restaurant or simply relax in one of the lounge rooms.
Riad Zouhour has been recently and lovingly restored in a charming and traditional style. Located in the Medina District of Rabat, and just a two-minute walk to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Kasbah of the Udayas; the Hassan Tower Mosque and Royal Palace of Rabat are also within easy walking proximity to the riad. Its rooms are quiet and comfortable, and you can enjoy some R&R in the hamman after a busy day exploring, or just sit and relax on the sun terrace and patio.
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