Morocco Imperial Cities Tour & The Sahara

7 Days / 6 Nights | Morocco's Ancient Heart

Signature Journey

Imperial Cities & the Sahara

Starting from $4,000 CAD / person
Marrakech → High Atlas → Aït Benhaddou → Ouarzazate → Dadès → Todra Gorge → Merzouga → Midelt → Ifrane → Fes → Casablanca → Marrakech

This 7-day Morocco itinerary covers the country’s most iconic destinations in a single, well-paced loop — from the medina of Marrakech across the High Atlas, through kasbahs and canyon gorges, into the Sahara, and north through the imperial city of Fes before returning via the Atlantic coast.

Cross the High Atlas via Tizi n’Tichka, explore the UNESCO ksar of Aït Benhaddou, and follow the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs into the Dadès Valley. Continue through the dramatic landscapes of Todra Gorge before arriving at Erg Chebbi for a sunset camel ride and overnight desert camp experience beneath the dunes.

The journey north passes through the Ziz Valley, Midelt, the cedar forests of Azrou, and Ifrane before arriving in Fes for guided medina exploration. The return route travels via Rabat and Casablanca before returning to Marrakech — combining desert, mountains, imperial cities, and the Atlantic coast in one complete Moroccan journey.

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Maple & Medina
Imperial Cities and the Sahara

What to Expect

During the Morocco Imperial Cities Tour, you will embark on a captivating journey through Morocco's imperial cities, where ancient history meets vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. This 7-day tour offers an immersive experience, guiding you from the bustling medinas and intricate mosaics of Marrakech, the famed Red City, to the serene Roman ruins of Volubilis near Meknes.

Discover Morocco's oldest imperial city, Fes, with its UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina and the oldest university in the world. Traverse diverse terrains—from the majestic High Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert—and explore royal palaces, traditional markets, and the coastal charm of Rabat and Casablanca.

With expert-guided tours, private drivers, and ample free time to soak in local customs and cuisine, this adventure blends history, culture, and modern architecture for an unforgettable Moroccan experience.

  • Day 1: Marrakech → Dadès Valley Depart Marrakech around 08:00. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n'Tichka Pass — scenic viewpoints for photos of valleys, terraced fields, and Berber villages. Stop at Aït Benhaddou (allow 1.5–2 hours) — explore the UNESCO ksar, lunch with kasbah view if possible. Continue to Ouarzazate — optional stop at Atlas Film Studios or Taourirt Kasbah. Drive through Skoura Oasis (palm groves, old kasbahs) and the Valley of Roses. Arrive in Boumalne Dadès or the Dadès Gorges for the night. Stay in a guesthouse with a view of the gorge or valley.

    Day 2: Dadès → Todra Gorge → Merzouga Short walk or drive into the Dadès Gorge — the famous "monkey fingers" rock formations and the winding road viewpoint above the hairpin bends. Drive to Todra Gorge (approx. 1.5–2 hours). Explore the gorge on foot — sheer red cliffs, river, and rock climbers. Allow 1–2 hours. Early lunch in the area. Drive through Tinjdad, Erfoud, and Rissani as the landscape becomes increasingly desert-like. Arrive in Merzouga by mid-afternoon. Transfer to a desert camp in Erg Chebbi — camel trek or 4×4 into the dunes at sunset. Dinner under the stars, Berber music, overnight in a desert tent.

    Day 3: Merzouga → Fes Optional sunrise over the dunes. Breakfast at camp. Drive north: Merzouga → Erfoud → Errachidia → Midelt (lunch stop) → Azrou cedar forest (Barbary macaques) → Ifrane → Fes. Stop at Ziz Valley viewpoints for palm oasis views. Arrive in Fes early evening. Check in to a riad in Fes el-Bali.

    Day 4: Full Day in Fes Full day with a local guide. Key sights: Fes el-Bali (maze of narrow streets), Al-Qarawiyyin University & Mosque (view from nearby rooftops), Bou Inania Madrasa and/or Al-Attarine Madrasa, Chouara Tanneries (view from terraces), Nejjarine Fountain and Museum, traditional craft workshops — ceramics, zellige tiles, metalwork, textiles. Evening dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic medina views.

    Day 5: Fes → Rabat → Casablanca Morning departure. Drive to Rabat (approx. 2.5–3 hours). Short visit: Kasbah of the Udayas (ocean and river views), Hassan Tower, and Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Continue to Casablanca (approx. 1.5–2 hours). Visit Hassan II Mosque (book guided interior tour). Corniche (Ain Diab) for a seaside walk. Dinner near the mosque or on the Corniche. Overnight in Casablanca. Note: Direct Fes → Casablanca (without Rabat stop) is also available — approx. 4–4.5 hours by car.

    Day 6: Casablanca → Marrakech Morning visit to Hassan II Mosque if not seen on Day 5. Depart for Marrakech (approx. 2.5–3 hours) around late morning or early afternoon. Check in to your riad. Evening at Jemaa el-Fna — street food, performers, and market atmosphere. Wander the medina souks.

    Day 7: Marrakech / Departure Use the day depending on flight times. Key sights: Bahia Palace, El Badi Palace, Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs. Optional: Majorelle Garden & Yves Saint Laurent Museum, Ben Youssef Madrasa. Last shopping in the souks. Dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Jemaa el-Fna. Transfer to airport.

    • Cooking Class — Master tagine, harira, and fresh Moroccan spice blends in a traditional riad kitchen.

    • Hammam & Spa Day — A centuries-old ritual of steam, black soap, and full-body renewal. Non-negotiable.

    • Sahara ATV or Quad Bike — Trade the camel for horsepower and race the dunes at golden hour.

    • Hot Air Balloon over Marrakech — Float above the palms and the Atlas at sunrise. The city at its most breathtaking.

    • Photography Walk — Capture the medina or the dunes with a local photographer by your side.

    • Berber Weaving or Pottery Workshop — Learn from a master craftsman and take something handmade home.

  • Accommodation Options

    Choose the level of comfort that best suits your journey. Each stay is carefully selected by Maple & Medina for its character, location, and sense of place — ensuring every accommodation feels authentic, considered, and seamlessly connected to your route.

    All properties are subject to availability at time of booking, and will be confirmed or thoughtfully substituted with a comparable option of the same standard.

    Standard

    Comfortable, locally owned riads, guesthouses, and desert camps that offer an authentic Moroccan experience. Simple, welcoming, and well-located — ideal for travellers focused on experience over luxury.

    Premium

    Handpicked boutique riads, upgraded desert camps, and character-filled hotels with enhanced comfort, design, and amenities. A balanced blend of authenticity and elevated comfort.

    Luxury

    Exceptional riads, high-end desert camps, and premium hotels featuring refined interiors, curated service, and standout locations. Designed for travellers seeking comfort, privacy, and a more indulgent experience throughout.

    What to Expect from Your Accommodations on this Guided Tour

    Expect a carefully selected mix of accommodations that reflect each destination. This may include traditional riads in medinas, local guesthouses, and comfortable desert camps. Rooms are chosen for location, character, cleanliness, and practical amenities, giving you a reliable place to rest between stops in Marrakech, Fes, Meknes, Rabat, Casablanca, and the desert.

    • Private, air-conditioned vehicle + professional English-speaking driver

    • 6 nights accommodation (riads, guesthouse, desert camp, hotels)

    • Daily breakfast

    • Sahara camel trek or 4×4 + overnight desert camp

    • Local guiding in Fes

    • Airport transfers (Marrakech in & out)

    • International flights to and from Morocco

    • Lunches & dinners (unless specified)

    • Entry tickets to monuments

    • Optional experiences (tours, hammams, activities)

    • Tips & personal expenses

Moroccan Riads

Experiences & Highlights

  • Tea Ceremony in Marrakech

    Tea Ceremony in Marrakech

    A timeless ritual of hospitality across Morocco. A symbol of welcome and connection, the Moroccan tea ceremony is a quiet moment woven into daily life.

  • Erg Chebbi dunes sunset camel silhouette

    Camel Ride at Sunset, Erg Chebbi

    Ride among the golden dunes of the Sahara at sunset or sunrise. Your desert dome awaits beneath a star-filled sky, with welcome tea and a traditional Moroccan dinner at camp.

  • Dadès Gorge monkey fingers rock formation

    The Dadès Gorges

    See the unique rock formations known as "Monkey Fingers" and enjoy panoramic views of the Dadès Valley.

  • Aït Benhaddou ksar UNESCO wide

    Aït Benhaddou

    A UNESCO World Heritage ksar — explore the ancient kasbah and its viewpoints, and take in the surrounding landscapes.

  • Barbary macaque monkey Azrou cedar forest

    Cedar Forests & Barbary Macaques

    On the drive north from Merzouga, the landscape shifts from desert to cedar forests. Stop at Azrou to see the Barbary macaque monkeys in the trees.

  • Ifrane Morocco alpine town

    Ifrane - Morocco's Little Switzerland

    A European-style alpine town in the Middle Atlas, known for its distinctive architecture and cool mountain air. A striking contrast after two days in the desert.

  • Fes Chouara tanneries terrace view

    The Chouara Tanneries, Fes

    The classic leather dyeing pits of Fes, viewed from terrace level. One of the most recognisable sights in Morocco and a highlight of any guided medina walk.

  • Jemaa el-Fna Marrakech evening food stalls musicians

    Jemaa el-Fna Square, Marrakech

    The ancient square alive with food stalls, musicians, and storytellers — with the Koutoubia Mosque, the city's most recognisable landmark, rising above. This is where the journey begins

  • Chefchaouen blue medina alley

    The Blue Medina, Chefchaouen

    Chefchaouen is famed for its blue-washed streets and relaxed atmosphere. The medina, the Kasbah Museum, and the central plaza cafés are the highlights.

Next Steps

Make This Journey Your Own

If this itinerary feels like the right foundation, we’ll tailor every detail to match your preferred travel style, pace, interests, and budget. From boutique riads and luxury desert camps to private experiences and hidden local gems, each journey is personalised to feel seamless, thoughtful, and entirely your own.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, we would love to chat.

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  • Your Imperial Cities journey begins with a foundational itinerary, then Maple & Medina refines the details around your interests, travel style, preferred pace, and comfort level. This route can bring together the imperial cities, Morocco imperial cities highlights, the imperial cities of Morocco, and a deeper sense of the country’s rich imperial history, from Casablanca Airport to Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakech.

    The experience can include the Hassan II Mosque, the majestic Hassan II Mosque along the Atlantic Ocean, Hassan Tower in the capital Rabat, the city of Meknes, Bab El Mansour, the Royal Stables, and the legacy of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Depending on the route, you may also explore olive groves, the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, Meknes Volubilis, and UNESCO World Heritage places such as a UNESCO listed medina.

    Your itinerary is private, flexible, and shaped to your own pace. Some days may include medieval alleyways, famous souks, bustling souks, artisan workshops, Moorish architecture, mint tea, traditional Moroccan meals, or panoramic views over some of Morocco’s most beautiful cities. In Marrakech, your route may include Jemaa El Fna Square, Jemaa El Fnaa Square, El Fna Square, Koutoubia Mosque, the tallest minaret in the city, fortune tellers, and the cultural heart of the medina.

    Maple & Medina handles the planning, accommodations, transportation, guided experiences, and support throughout your time in Morocco. The goal is to create a journey that feels thoughtful, balanced, and personal rather than rushed or pre-packaged.

  • Getting started is simple. Choose the Imperial Cities journey as your starting point, then reach out to Maple & Medina with a few details about when you want to visit Morocco, how many travellers are coming, your preferred accommodation style, and whether you want a small group or private custom experience.

    From there, Maple & Medina will schedule a relaxed conversation to learn more about what matters to you. You can talk through whether you want two nights in certain places, an overnight stay along the route, more free time, wine tasting, additional cultural experiences, or space to move at your own pace. Pricing can then be refined per person based on the route, travel dates, accommodation level, and inclusions.

    Please note that most journeys include planning, private transportation, selected stays, airport coordination, curated experiences, and support while travelling, but international flights, travel insurance, personal purchases, and some meals are typically separate. As the tour ends, Maple & Medina can also help advise on timing for your return flight, departure airport, and the next stop if you are continuing elsewhere in North Africa.