12-Day Morocco Imperial Cities & Desert Tour from Marrakech

4,9 (350 Reviews)
Duration: 12 Days - 11 Nights
Language: English, Spanish, Italian
Tour Type: Private Tour
Tour Code: DST757
Group Size : Min 2 People
Period: All Round Year

Overview

Journey across Morocco on this private 12-day Morocco tour from Marrakech with Deep South Travel, a seamless blend of imperial heritage, mountain landscapes, and Sahara desert magic. This 12 day Morocco tour from Marrakech connects the Red City with Fes, Chefchaouen, Tangier, and the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.

Your 12 days Morocco itinerary from Marrakech captures the full spirit of Morocco’s culture. As a complete Morocco imperial cities and desert tour 12 days, you will experience guided tours of Marrakech, the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, and the imperial splendor of Meknes. This Grand Morocco tour 12 days from Marrakech features camel rides at sunset, local cuisine, and stays in elegant riads and luxury desert camps. From the blue medina of Chefchaouen to the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, this journey is the ultimate adventure for explorers.

Please note: This itinerary is just a suggested program. If it doesn’t fully match what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to design a customized itinerary tailored to your preferences, travel dates, and duration of stay. We specialize in creating personalized tours and experiences across Morocco.

Trip Highlights

  • The scenic crossing of the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass
  • Camel trekking at sunset and sunrise in the vast dunes of Erg Chebbi
  • Overnight stay in a luxury desert camp with Berber drumming and stargazing
  • Guided visits to the medinas of Marrakech and Fes with licensed expert guides
  • Wander through the picturesque blue streets of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains
  • Discover Roman ruins at Volubilis and the imperial splendor of Meknes
  • Travel through the scenic Ziz Valley, cedar forests, and mountain landscapes
  • Relax in elegant 4★–5★ hotels and riads offering authentic Moroccan hospitality
  • Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou Kasbah and Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa”
  • Guided exploration of Morocco’s four imperial cities: Marrakech, Fes, Meknes, and Casablanca

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrival in Marrakech Airport

Upon arrival at Marrakech Airport, you will be warmly greeted by the Deep South Travel staff. A private transfer will take you to your 4★ hotel for check-in and relaxation after your flight. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a stroll through the lively streets nearby or simply unwind. Dinner and overnight at your hotel.

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Day 2 : Exploring Marrakech (Full Day)

After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided exploration of Marrakech — the “Red City.” Begin with the serene Majorelle Gardens, a masterpiece of exotic flora and cobalt blue architecture created by painter Jacques Majorelle. Visit the towering Koutoubia Mosque, an emblem of Almohad architecture, followed by the Bahia Palace, a splendid example of Moroccan craftsmanship. Continue to Medersa Ben Youssef and the Museum of Marrakech, rich in artistic and historic treasures. After lunch, dive into the souks — a labyrinth of vibrant alleys filled with artisans, spices, leather goods, and jewelry. End your day at Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where snake charmers, musicians, and street food vendors bring the heart of Marrakech alive at sunset. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

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Day 3 : Marrakech → High Atlas → Ait Benhaddou → Ouarzazate

Depart after breakfast for an adventurous drive across the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m). Enjoy breathtaking views of valleys, terraced villages, and winding roads. Stop for photos and tea breaks before reaching the famous Ait Benhaddou Kasbah — a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient earthen architecture and role in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Explore the narrow lanes of this fortified village, then continue to Ouarzazate, nicknamed “Hollywood of Africa” for its film studios and desert backdrops. Dinner and overnight at a charming 4★ riad.

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Day 4 : Ouarzazate → Skoura → Todra Gorges → Merzouga Dunes (Erg Chebbi)

After breakfast, journey through the palm groves of Skoura, where ancient kasbahs rise among lush oases. Continue through Kelaat M’Gouna, the Valley of Roses — famous for its fragrant rose products and annual festival. Pass through Boumalne Dades and Tinghir before reaching the majestic Todra Gorges, where towering cliffs create one of Morocco’s most stunning natural spectacles. In the afternoon, head toward Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Upon arrival, mount your camel for an unforgettable sunset ride across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Enjoy dinner under the stars and traditional Berber drumming around the campfire before sleeping in your 5★ luxury desert tent.

5

Day 5 : Desert Discovery with 4WD – Nomadic Life

Wake early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes — a truly magical sight. After breakfast at camp, ride your camel or drive back to Merzouga village, then set out on a 4WD desert excursion. Visit fossil areas, nomadic families living in traditional tents, and Khamlia village, home to the Gnawa people known for their hypnotic music. Stop at Dayet Srij Lake (when full) to spot flamingos and other wildlife. In the afternoon, visit an oasis and learn about underground irrigation channels. Dinner and overnight at a 5★ desert riad.

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Day 6 : Erg Chebbi → Ziz Valley → Midelt → Azrou → Ifrane → Fes

Today’s journey reveals Morocco’s geographical diversity. Depart from Merzouga through the Ziz Valley, lined with palm groves and ancient kasbahs. Stop in Midelt, nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, for lunch and scenic mountain views. Continue to the cedar forests of Azrou, where you can spot and feed Barbary macaque monkeys, then pass through the alpine-style town of Ifrane, often called “the Moroccan Switzerland.” Arrive in Fes by evening for dinner and overnight.

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Day 7 : Fes Sightseeing Tour (Full Day)

Spend a full day discovering the cultural and spiritual capital of Morocco. Begin at Bab Boujloud, the iconic blue gate leading into Fes el-Bali — the oldest and best-preserved medina in the Arab world. Visit the Bou Inania Medersa, Al Quaraouiyyine University (the world’s oldest functioning university), and the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts. Walk through the aromatic tanneries, visit the Attarine Medersa, and explore the vibrant souks where artisans craft leather, metal, and ceramics. Fes offers a living museum of Moroccan heritage. Dinner and overnight at your riad.

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Day 8 : Fes → Meknes → Volubilis → Chefchaouen

After breakfast, drive to the imperial city of Meknes, once the capital under Sultan Moulay Ismail. Visit Bab Mansour Gate, Lahdim Square, and the royal stables. Continue to Volubilis to explore its remarkably preserved Roman ruins — complete with mosaic floors and triumphal arches. In the afternoon, journey north into the Rif Mountains, reaching Chefchaouen by evening. Admire its striking blue-washed alleys and relaxed atmosphere. Dinner and overnight at a 4★ riad or hotel.

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Day 9 : Exploring Chefchaouen

Begin the day with a guided tour of Chefchaouen, Morocco’s “Blue Pearl.” Visit the Kasbah and ethnographic museum in the main square of Plaza Uta el-Hammam, then wander through narrow streets adorned with flower pots and indigo-blue doors. This mountain town offers one of the most photogenic medinas in the country. Spend the afternoon exploring its artisan workshops or relaxing in a café overlooking the mountains. Dinner and overnight stay.

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Day 10 : Chefchaouen → Tetouan → Tangier

After breakfast, travel through the scenic Rif Mountains toward Tetouan, a city known for its Andalusian influence and whitewashed medina. Visit its UNESCO-listed old town and the National Artisanal School before continuing along the Mediterranean coast to Tangier. Enjoy a short panoramic tour of Tangier’s modern neighborhoods and seafront promenade before dinner and overnight at your 4★ hotel.

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Day 11 : Tangier → Asilah → Casablanca

Depart for Asilah, a peaceful coastal town famed for its art scene and colorful murals. Stroll along the ramparts and whitewashed streets before heading south to Casablanca. Upon arrival, visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque (exterior visit) and enjoy your final dinner in Morocco’s economic capital. Overnight at a 4★ seaside hotel.

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Day 12 : Casablanca Airport

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then transfer to Mohammed V International Airport for your departing flight.

What's Included

  • Pick-up from Marrakech Airport & drop-off at Casablanca Airport
  • Private air-conditioned minibus
  • English-speaking driver throughout the tour
  • Licensed local guides in Marrakech & Fes
  • Monument entrance fees
  • 10 nights in 4★ hotels / riads + 1 night in a 5★ luxury desert camp
  • Private tent with bathroom & hot shower
  • 4×4 desert excursion & nomad visit
  • Camel trekking at sunset & sunrise
  • Moroccan folklore show at camp
  • Breakfasts and dinners daily (vegetarian options available)
  • Free time for photo stops, walks, and discovery

What's Not Included

  • Lunches (except Day 2)
  • Beverages & personal expenses
  • Tips for driver or guides

Know Before You Go

  • Tour available year-round and fully customizable.
  • 4★ hotels and riads used throughout; desert camp is 5★ luxury.
  • Pack comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing.
  • Itinerary pace is moderate with scenic and cultural stops daily.

Pricing

The cost of the tour varies depending on the number of travelers, the more people joining, the lower the price per person. Since transportation is a fixed cost, it will be divided among participants. Prices also depend on the category and quality of accommodation selected. Please contact us for an exact quote based on your group size and travel preferences.

Cancellation Policy

Charges depend on the Cancellation Date :
  • 60 days or more before departure: Full refund.
  • 59–30 days before departure: 30% of total cost retained.
  • 29–15 days before departure: 50% of total cost retained.
  • Less than 10 days before departure: 100% of deposit retained.

Map

Frequently Asked Questions
  • This is a completely private tour with your own driver and guide — ideal for couples, families, or small groups.

  • Yes, both sunset and sunrise camel rides in the Sahara are included.

  • You’ll stay in a luxury 5★ camp with private ensuite tents, electricity, and hot showers.

  • Yes — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary needs can be arranged.

  • Yes, all hotels and the desert camp provide Wi-Fi access.

  • Spring (March–June) and autumn (September–November) offer ideal weather.

  • Usually between 3–5 hours with scenic and cultural stops along the way.

  • Yes — the itinerary is flexible and can be reversed upon request.

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