7 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Imperial Cities
7 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech OVERVIEW :
7 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech, highlights :
- Marrakech Medina: Wander through the historic souks and the lively Jmaa el Fna Square.
- Tizi n’Tichka Pass: Drive through the High Atlas Mountains, enjoying breathtaking views of Berber villages.
- Ait Benhaddou Kasbah: Visit the famous UNESCO World Heritage site, a backdrop for many films.
- Dades Gorges: Explore the scenic “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” and the dramatic canyon landscapes.
- Todra Gorges: Stroll through towering cliffs and experience the beauty of the desert.
- Merzouga Desert: Camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, enjoy a stunning sunset, and spend a night in a nomadic bivouac.
- Gnawa Music in Khamlia: Enjoy traditional music and dance by the Berber people of Mali origin.
- Rissani Souks: Discover authentic, traditional souks known for crafts, food, and animal trade.
- Ziz Valley: Drive through lush oasis landscapes with thousands of palm trees and panoramic views.
- Fez Medina: Explore the cultural heart of Morocco, visiting the famous tanneries and winding streets filled with history.
7 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Marrakech – Marrakech
Arrival in Marrakech.Free day to make contact with the place: One of the four imperial cities of Morocco. Famous for having numerous monuments recognized as world heritage, and its famous square of Jemaa el Fna.You can visit its different and characteristic neighborhoods, the modern city: Guéliz Hivernage Palmeraie, Mellah (the Jewish Quarter) … or carried away through the winding streets of the Medina, to Jmaa el Fna Square, the scene of countless outdoor activities: jugglers, musicians, fakirs, snake charmers, jugglers … to awaken all your senses with its multiple sounds, aromas, flavors and colors that characterize it. Accommodation in Riad.
Day 2 : Marrakech – Tizi n’Tichka – Dades Gorges
After breakfast, we will address Marrakesh Dades Gorges. On the way we cross the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka, threading our way among many peoples of nomadic Berbers who inhabit the area. Spectacular scenery will take us to the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, famous as the scene of more than two dozen films, including “Babel”.Continue to Ouarzazate via the Valley of Roses crossing, to get into the Dades Gorges, where begins the “road of the thousand kasbahs”. Dades Valley Accommodation and dinner at the hotel.
Day 3 : Dades Gorge – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Sahara
Breakfast at the hotel. We headed to the Todra Gorge, where you can take a leisurely stroll through its imposing canyon walls over 200 meters high, to exit into the desert through the palm of Tafilalet. Arrive at the hotel on the foot of the dunes, where you can walk the fine sand of the Erg Chebbi, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery. At night, will savor a delicious Moroccan dish. Overnight in a hotel room.
Day 4 : Merzouga – Tour around Erg Chebbi
After a hearty Moroccan breakfast, we will go up to 4×4 to start our tour around the Erg Chebbi dunes, a populated desert region of sand: Among the many stops that lie ahead, we will discover how and where nomadic families living in the area, a wild oasis in the middle of nowhere, spectacular desert landscapes and small towns, palm …Inevitable stop as we passed through the village of Khamelia of people originating in Mali, we will enjoy a nice concert of Gnawa music, while a delicious tea taste. Back at the hotel, we expect from our camels to take an hour and a half route, threading our way among the dunes and into the heart of the desert to watch the beautiful sunset. Wrapped by the Great Dune, and enjoying the music of drums, dinner, and Moroccan tea, you can contemplate the immense sky of stars and sleep in nomadic tents.
Day 5 : Merzouga – Rissani – Ziz Valley – Middle Atlas – Fes
We wake up early in the morning, to see another great show in the dunes of the Moroccan Sahara: the spectacular sunrise.
Again, you shall go up on your camels for another route back to the hotel. After breakfast and a shower, we proceeded to Rissani. Where we walk by is known as the most authentic and traditional souk of Morocco, and the largest in the south, where it trades with all types of crafts, food and animals. We continue via Erfoud, the ancient gateway to the desert, famous for the work of fossils, crossing the Ziz Valley impressive, with more than 18,000 palm trees, reaching Midelt. Stop for lunch and continue the way up through Ifran (also known as the Switzerland of Moroccan aesthetics of their buildings). Arriving in Fez, and transferring to the hotel.
Day 6 : Fes Guided Tour
Free day to explore the city Fez Another of the four imperial cities. In Morocco is considered as the religious and cultural center of the country. Its university, famous for the study of Arabic and Islam, is a crossing point for many Moroccan students. You will have time to stroll and meet its various districts, the new area or Fès el-Jdid, where you will find the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), the Ville Nouvelle (Villa Nueva) French zone in the northwest of the city and of course, the Fez -Bali, the old, within the walls. You can walk around the streets and you feel transported to past worlds in which potters, blacksmiths, craftsmen and donkeys laden with goods from diverse backgrounds coexist with tourists transiting its labyrinthine alleys.
Also famous for the tanners’ souk, you will be able to partake of medieval roots artisan process by which they get to take those brightly colored leather. Accommodation in Riad.
Day 7 : Fes – Airport
Transfer to the airport for your flight out (should be the last day of your trip). Or, add one or more days.
included :
- Transport in 4×4 car with Air condition
- Private driver/English speaking guide
- Accommodation (dinner and breakfast) in hotels
- Camel ride through the desert
- Sleep in desert tent
excluded :
- Airline tickets
- Noon meals
- Drinks
- Entrance fees
Gallery of the 7 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech
More information about the Places you will visit in this 7 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech
Marrakech – The Beating Heart of Morocco
Overview
Marrakech, known as the “Red City,” is one of Morocco’s four imperial cities and a cultural capital steeped in history, art, and architecture.
What Makes It Famous
Its UNESCO-listed Medina, the world-famous Jemaa el-Fna Square, and the vibrant souks make Marrakech one of the most visited cities in Africa.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Founded in 1062 by the Almoravid dynasty, Marrakech became a powerful imperial center. Its architecture blends Arab, Berber, and Andalusian influences, and its palaces, mosques, and gardens are reminders of its rich past.
Highlights and Unique Features
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Jemaa el-Fna: a lively square with snake charmers, storytellers, and street food
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Koutoubia Mosque: Marrakech’s iconic minaret
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Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs: masterpieces of Islamic architecture
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Majorelle Garden: a colorful retreat once owned by Yves Saint Laurent
Traveler Experience
Expect sensory overload: aromatic spices, vibrant textiles, and the sound of drums and flutes echoing through the streets. Don’t miss a sunset tea on a rooftop café overlooking the square.
Local Life
Marrakech’s residents are proud of their traditions. The city pulses with energy, especially at night when the square transforms into a festival of lights, music, and flavors.
Tizi n’Tichka Pass – A Journey Through the High Atlas
Overview
The Tizi n’Tichka Pass is a dramatic mountain road that connects Marrakech with the desert regions beyond the High Atlas Mountains.
What Makes It Famous
At 2,260 meters above sea level, it is the highest major mountain pass in North Africa and offers stunning panoramic views.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Historically, this route was used by Berber caravans transporting salt, spices, and goods between sub-Saharan Africa and the Mediterranean world.
Highlights and Unique Features
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Panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys
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Berber villages clinging to the mountainsides
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Opportunity to spot traditional flat-roofed houses and terraced fields
Traveler Experience
It’s a thrilling drive full of switchbacks and stunning photo stops. In spring, you’ll see the peaks dusted with snow while wildflowers bloom below.
Local Life
You may spot shepherds and locals tending flocks or selling argan oil and handmade crafts along the roadside.
Ait Ben Haddou – Morocco’s Most Photographed Fortress
Overview
Ait Ben Haddou is a fortified village (ksar) located near Ouarzazate and one of Morocco’s best-preserved examples of traditional earthen architecture.
What Makes It Famous
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favorite Hollywood filming location, featured in Gladiator, Game of Thrones, Babel, and more.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Ait Ben Haddou was once a thriving trading post on the trans-Saharan caravan route. Its layered homes, towers, and granaries show how Berber families once lived and defended their settlement.
Highlights and Unique Features
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Clay walls, narrow alleys, and watchtowers rising above the river
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The climb to the granary provides sweeping views of the Ounila Valley
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The contrast between ancient architecture and modern life across the river
Traveler Experience
Walking through Ait Ben Haddou feels like entering a historical movie set. Local guides can explain its history and show you where famous scenes were shot.
Local Life
A few families still live inside the ksar, preserving its legacy. Others operate small shops selling Berber rugs, pottery, and fossils.
Ouarzazate – Gateway to the Sahara and Cinema City
Overview
Ouarzazate is a desert town known for its film studios and stunning kasbahs. It’s often the last major stop before reaching the Sahara.
What Makes It Famous
Nicknamed “The Hollywood of Africa,” it’s home to Atlas Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world.
Historical and Cultural Significance
It developed under French colonial influence and has become a cultural hub for southern Morocco. The Taourirt Kasbah was once the residence of the powerful Glaoui family.
Highlights and Unique Features
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Atlas Film Studios: open for tours with sets from famous movies
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Taourirt Kasbah: a maze of rooms and passageways with beautiful architecture
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Proximity to oases and valleys like Fint Oasis
Traveler Experience
Film lovers will enjoy walking through replica temples and desert sets. The surrounding arid landscape adds a surreal touch to the experience.
Local Life
Ouarzazate has a calm, laid-back feel with friendly locals, colorful markets, and a unique blend of Berber and Saharan culture.
Dades Gorges – The Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs
Overview
The Dades Gorges are a series of dramatic sandstone canyons carved by the Dades River, located between the High Atlas and Jbel Saghro ranges.
What Makes It Famous
This area is known for its unique rock formations, including the “Monkey Fingers,” and its winding road of hairpin turns — a dream for photographers.
Historical and Cultural Significance
For centuries, Berber tribes have lived in this valley, building fortified homes (kasbahs) and cultivating lush oases from the river.
Highlights and Unique Features
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The “Monkey Fingers” rocks and the serpent-like mountain road
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Colorful kasbahs set against the red cliffs
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Almond blossoms in spring and changing colors in autumn
Traveler Experience
You’ll pass picturesque villages, orchards, and date palms. A short hike or a tea break in a local guesthouse reveals the peaceful rhythm of valley life.
Local Life
Residents live simply, farming and raising livestock. Hospitality is a core value — expect warm welcomes from locals.
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