Casablanca: 10-Day Private Sahara & Imperial Cities Tour

This 10-day private tour of Morocco from Casablanca offers an immersive journey through some of the country’s most iconic sights, with a blend of city exploration, desert adventures, and scenic landscapes. Guided by experts, travelers get the chance to visit Rabat, Meknès, Fès, and Aït Ben Haddou, alongside a memorable camel ride into the Sahara and a night in a luxury desert camp. The tour is rated 5 stars, reflecting its detailed itinerary and comprehensive experience.

Priced as a full 10-day package, this trip is ideal for those who want a well-organized, private journey covering Morocco’s historic sites, natural wonders, and cultural treasures in a manageable schedule. Be prepared for long drives between locations, but in return, enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and desert dunes. This tour suits travelers who appreciate detailed itineraries, cultural richness, and the flexibility of private group arrangements.

Key Points

• Includes 10 days of guided exploration covering Morocco’s imperial cities, desert, and scenic regions
• Luxury overnight stays in desert camps and hotels, with camel rides and camp activities
• Visits UNESCO World Heritage sites like Volubilis and Aït Ben Haddou
• Special focus on scenic highlights: Atlas Mountains, Ziz Valley, Todra Gorge, and Roses Valley
• Transport and logistics organized for a private group, with pickup from Casablanca, Marrakech, Fez, Rabat, or Tangier
• Weather and long drives are considerations, so pack accordingly and prepare for a full schedule

You can check availability for your dates here:

Morocco’s Imperial Cities and Historic Ruins

The tour begins in Casablanca, where the driver meets travelers either at the airport or hotel, then takes guests for a quick visit to Hassan II Mosque and Corniche Ain Diab. Moving to Rabat, the group explores the Hassan Tower, Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Kasbah of the Udayas, offering a glimpse of Morocco’s political and religious history.

From Rabat, the journey continues to Meknès, a city famous for Bab Mansour, Heri es-Souani, and the Moulay Ismaïl Mausoleum. The guided tour of Meknès takes approximately four hours, covering its grand gates, historic sultanate buildings, and lively medina streets. Nearby, the UNESCO-listed Volubilis reveals ancient Roman ruins, complete with mosaics and remnants of old basilicas, providing a fascinating archaeological stop.

In Fès, the focus shifts to exploring the medina, a maze of narrow alleyways, souks, and historic madrasas. The Al-Qaraouiyine (from outside), Bou Inania, and the Royal Palace are highlights. A demonstration of ceramics and enamel work showcases local craftsmanship. The Fès medina remains a lively hub of artisans and traders, where visitors can shop for traditional crafts or simply take in the vibrant atmosphere.

Desert Adventures and Scenic Valleys

One of the tour’s standout features is the desert experience in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. After traveling through Ifrane, known as Little Switzerland, and Azrou, where Barbary macaques are visible, the group reaches Merzouga. Here, a camel ride at sunset takes guests into the erg Chebbi dunes, culminating in a night at a luxury desert camp.

The following morning, the sunrise over the dunes offers stunning photo opportunities. Guests can choose to go sandboarding, visit Khamlia to hear Gnawa music, or meet nomadic families. Optional activities provide a chance to enjoy the desert environment actively, before returning to the camp for breakfast and a shower.

The trip then moves to Tinghir, where a walk through the Todra Gorge reveals towering limestone cliffs and lush oases. The journey continues through the Dades Valley, famously called the Route of 1000 Kasbahs, with stops at viewpoints like the Monkey Fingers and Tissadrine bends. These scenic drives highlight the diverse landscapes of Morocco’s mountains and valleys.

The Iconic Kasbahs and Oases

A highlight along the route is Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a well-preserved Ksour (fortified village). The guide leads a tour through the clay-walled kasbahs, with sweeping views across the Ounila Valley. This site has served as a backdrop for many films and offers a vivid glimpse of traditional Berber architecture.

Traveling deeper into the Dades Gorge, the tour visits Kalaat M’Gouna in the Valley of Roses, where visitors can explore a rose distillery or cooperative (seasonally). The scenic drives through these communities showcase handmade crafts, local markets, and oasis landscapes, enriching the cultural experience.

Next, the journey takes travelers along the Roses Valley, passing local markets and scenic vistas, before arriving at the Kasbah Amridil in Skoura. The kasbah’s architecture and desert surroundings highlight the region’s historical significance and natural beauty.

Crossing the High Atlas and Visiting Marrakech

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka, the group enjoys breathtaking mountain vistas and passes through traditional villages. Optional stops at argan oil cooperatives allow insight into local industries.

In Marrakech, the tour culminates with visits to iconic sites including Jemaa el-Fna, Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and the Saadian Tombs. The Yves Saint Laurent Museum and Majorelle Garden add a touch of modern culture and botanical beauty. The Ensemble Artisanal Marrakech provides a chance to explore local art and crafts, with workshops available.

The tour’s final evening in Marrakech features dinner at Jemaa el-Fna, where the lively street food scene, markets, and performers create an unforgettable atmosphere. The guided walking tour ensures guests experience the city’s vibrant energy before returning to their hotel or riad.

More Great Tours Nearby

Unique Experiences in the Agafay Desert

After exploring Marrakech, the tour continues to the Agafay Desert, a less-visited but equally scenic alternative to the Sahara. Here, guests can enjoy a sunset camel ride or opt for quad or buggy rides. The scenic drive offers views of rugged terrain and rolling dunes.

An overnight stay in a luxury camp or lodge includes dinner under the stars and options for camp activities like traditional dance shows or even a balloon flight. The scenic vistas and peaceful environment make this a perfect setting to unwind after days of sightseeing.

Practicalities and Logistics of the Tour

The tour starts in Casablanca, with pickup services from airports and hotels, including Marrakech, Fez, Rabat, and Tangier. The private group arrangement allows for a personalized experience, and the live tour guides speak multiple languages, including English, French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, and Arabic.

The itinerary involves long drives between locations, so travelers should be prepared for extended travel times. Pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hats, and water for sun exposure and walking. The tour is not suitable for children under 3 years or those with mobility impairments due to the physical nature of some activities and site accessibility.

Final Thoughts on the 10-Day Moroccan Adventure

This comprehensive private tour offers a balanced mix of city sightseeing, natural landscapes, and desert experiences, all with luxury accommodation and guided insights. The selection of sites like Aït Ben Haddou, Todra Gorge, and Roses Valley ensures travelers see Morocco’s diverse geography and architecture.

While the long drives may be tiring, the scenic views and cultural richness make the journey worthwhile. The luxury desert camp and guided city visits provide comfort and insight, adding value to the experience. This tour especially appeals to those who want a well-organized, all-inclusive Moroccan adventure with a focus on scenery, history, and authentic experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is not recommended for children under 3 or for travelers with mobility issues due to physical activities and site accessibility.

What is included in the price?
The 10-day private guided tour includes transportation, accommodation, some activities like camel rides, and guided visits to major sites. Optional activities may have additional costs.

Are meals included?
Meals such as breakfast and some lunches or dinners are included, especially at camps and hotels. Specific details depend on each day’s schedule.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves long drives and some walking at sites like Fès medina and Todra Gorge. Comfortable shoes and preparedness for walking are advised.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there is some flexibility to adjust activities or pacing based on preferences, within the structure of the established itinerary.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, and Arabic to accommodate diverse groups.

What should I pack for the desert nights?
Bring warm clothes for the desert camp, as temperatures can drop at night, along with sunscreen, hat, water, and camera.

Are there any accessibility issues?
Some sites may have limited accessibility, and the tour involves long drives, so travelers with mobility issues should consider their comfort level.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change unexpectedly.

How do I prepare for the local weather?
Pack season-appropriate clothing and be prepared for variable weather across different regions—hot days and cooler nights are common.

This 10-day private Morocco tour from Casablanca combines historic city visits, scenic natural landscapes, and Sahara desert adventures, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided, and comfortable experience of Morocco’s highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby