9 Days Tour from Rabat : Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert

Tour Overview: 9 Days Tour from Rabat

Discover the soul of Morocco on this unforgettable 9 Days Tour from Rabat : Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert, a journey that blends ancient cities, dramatic landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters. This immersive itinerary is designed for travelers who want to experience the best of Morocco—from the Atlantic coast to the golden dunes of the Sahara.

Your adventure begins in Rabat, the elegant capital of Morocco, where you’ll explore its tranquil medina and historic landmarks. From there, travel north to the enchanting blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains. Discover the imperial charm of Meknes, walk through the awe-inspiring Roman ruins of Volubilis, and dive deep into the medieval soul of Fes, one of the world’s oldest living cities.

The journey then takes a scenic turn through the Middle Atlas Mountains, cedar forests, and palm-filled valleys as you head toward the vast and mesmerizing Sahara Desert. Experience a magical camel ride into the dunes of Merzouga, spend a night under a blanket of stars in a luxury desert camp, and connect with local nomads in the heart of the desert.

Continue your exploration through dramatic gorges, lush oases, and historic kasbahs on the legendary Route of a Thousand Kasbahs. Visit cinematic Ouarzazate, the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, and cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains to reach the vibrant city of Marrakech, where history and modern energy intertwine. Your final day includes a visit to Casablanca and its architectural jewel, the Hassan II Mosque, before returning to Rabat where your unforgettable Moroccan adventure comes to a close.

• Departure: Rabat
• Arrival: Rabat (with an option to return to Casablanca)
• Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
• Tour Type: Private or Small Group Tour
• Accommodation: Traditional riads, desert camp
• Transport: Comfortable 4×4 or minivan with English-speaking driver

Tour Highlights: 9 Days Tour from Rabat

• Explore Morocco’s capital city – Discover Rabat’s key monuments like the Hassan Tower, Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas.
• Wander the blue streets of Chefchaouen – Soak in the charm of the “Blue Pearl” of Morocco nestled in the Rif Mountains.
• Step back in time in Meknes and Volubilis – Visit the imperial gates of Meknes and explore the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Experience the spiritual soul of Fes – Tour the medieval medina, Al-Qarawiyyin University, tanneries, and bustling artisan quarters with a professional guide.
• Journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains – Enjoy scenic stops in Ifrane, Azrou’s cedar forests, and the palm-dotted Ziz Valley.
• Ride camels across the golden Sahara dunes – Enjoy a magical sunset trek through the Erg Chebbi dunes and sleep under the stars in a luxury desert camp.
• Meet nomads and enjoy authentic Berber hospitality – Connect with local families and experience Morocco’s desert traditions.
• Visit the dramatic Todra Gorges and Dades Valley – Marvel at towering canyon walls and explore the lush valleys and kasbahs of the south.
• Explore Ouarzazate & Ait Ben Haddou – Visit the “Hollywood of Morocco” and the legendary kasbah where famous films were shot.
• Discover Marrakech’s iconic landmarks – Experience the vibrant souks, Bahia Palace, Koutoubia Mosque, Majorelle Garden, and lively Jemaa el-Fna Square.
• Visit Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque – Admire one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, set against the Atlantic Ocean.

Itinerary: Private 9 Days Morocco Tour from Rabat:

At Morocco On Tour, we’re passionate about crafting personalized experiences tailored to your preferences. If you have special requests, would like to adjust the itinerary, or are interested in extending your adventure, simply share your details with us via the contact form below. We’re here to make your journey unforgettable!

Day 1: Arrival in Rabat

Upon your arrival at Rabat-Salé International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your driver from Morocco On Tour. After a comfortable transfer, you’ll be taken to your charming riad located in the heart of Rabat’s old medina. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to begin exploring Morocco’s elegant capital city.

Rabat is known for its relaxed coastal charm and impressive blend of modern and historical architecture. You may wish to take a leisurely walk to see landmarks such as the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Kasbah of the Udayas, which offers sweeping views over the Bouregreg River and the Atlantic Ocean.

Settle into your riad and enjoy your first evening in Morocco at your own pace, preparing for the exciting journey ahead.

Overnight stay in Rabat.

Day 2: Rabat → Chefchaouen

Your second journey begins as our friendly driver picks you up from your hotel in Rabat to kick off your unforgettable 9 Days Tour from Rabat : Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert. your journey continues northward as you travel through the picturesque Rif Mountains. The winding roads offer stunning natural scenery and glimpses of rural Moroccan life, eventually leading to one of the country’s most enchanting destinations—Chefchaouen, the famed “Blue Pearl” of Morocco. Nestled in the hills, this charming town captivates visitors with its peaceful ambiance and striking blue-painted buildings. Stroll through the old medina, where every alleyway feels like a dream of cerulean and cobalt hues. Relax in the central square, Plaza Uta el-Hammam, where cafés and local vendors bring the town’s slow rhythm to life. As the sun sets, the cool mountain air and the glow of blue walls create an unforgettable atmosphere. Accommodation at a cozy riad surrounded by the soft, serene tones that define Chefchaouen.

Day 3: Chefchaouen → Meknes → Volubilis → Fes

Departing Chefchaouen after breakfast, the road leads south toward the imperial city of Meknes, once the proud capital of Sultan Moulay Ismail’s 17th-century kingdom. Discover the city’s grandeur with stops at Bab Mansour, one of the most famous and ornate gates in North Africa, and the tranquil Sahrij Souani Basin, originally built to store water and grain. You’ll also explore the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture and sacred site. The journey continues to Volubilis, Morocco’s best-preserved Roman archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk among ancient mosaics, triumphal arches, and stone columns as your guide shares tales of Roman life and lost civilizations. Before arriving in Fes, pause briefly in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, one of Morocco’s most spiritual towns, perched on twin hills. Arrive in Fes by evening, where you’ll settle into a beautifully restored riad in the medina and enjoy a delicious dinner in this historic city.

Day 4: Fes – Guided City Tour

Today is entirely dedicated to discovering the cultural and spiritual heartbeat of Morocco—Fes, one of the oldest and most fascinating cities in the Islamic world. Begin your exploration with a panoramic view from the Royal Palace gates, followed by a walk through the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), offering a window into the city’s diverse past. Stroll through the peaceful Jnan Sbil Gardens, a green haven in the midst of the city. Dive into the labyrinthine medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where centuries of history unfold in narrow alleys alive with craftsmen, spice vendors, and curious donkeys delivering goods. Visit the Al-Qarawiyyin University, founded in 859 AD and recognized as the world’s oldest university, and marvel at stunning madrasas like Bou Inania and Al-Attarine. Witness traditional tanning processes at the famous Chouara Tannery, where vibrant dye vats create a kaleidoscope of color. The day is filled with authentic encounters and timeless beauty. Return to your riad in the evening for a relaxing overnight stay.

Day 5: Fes → Ifrane → Azrou → Midelt → Ziz Valley → Merzouga Desert

After breakfast, begin your scenic journey into Morocco’s interior, starting with a stop in Ifrane, nicknamed the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its alpine architecture, pristine parks, and clean streets. Continue to the cedar forests of Azrou, where you’ll meet wild Barbary macaques in their natural habitat. The road climbs through the Middle Atlas Mountains, revealing breathtaking vistas before reaching the town of Midelt, nestled between the High and Middle Atlas ranges. After lunch, you’ll follow the route through the dramatic Ziz Valley, famous for its deep gorges, oasis towns, and endless palm groves. Arrive in the desert town of Merzouga, where your Sahara adventure begins. Mount a camel and trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes just as the sun dips below the horizon, casting golden shadows across the sands. Settle into your luxury desert camp and savor a traditional dinner under the stars, accompanied by Berber drumming and stories by the fire.

Day 6: Merzouga → Rissani → Todra Gorges → Dades Valley → Ouarzazate

Wake up early to witness the unforgettable sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast at your desert camp. Depart for Rissani, a traditional market town with a deep Saharan heritage and a gateway to the ancient caravan routes. Explore its lively souk, especially on market days, before continuing to the awe-inspiring Todra Gorges. Towering limestone cliffs rise over 300 meters, creating a natural wonder ideal for a short walk and some memorable photos. Journey onward through the spectacular Dades Valley, also known as the Route of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing fields, kasbah ruins, and lush oases. Along the way, you’ll cross the Valley of Roses, where rosewater and cosmetics are still made from the Damask rose. By late afternoon, arrive in Ouarzazate, dubbed the “Hollywood of Africa” for its numerous film studios and desert landscapes. Enjoy dinner and a restful night in a charming local riad.

Day 7: Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou → Telouet → Marrakech

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a fortified village made entirely of earth and clay, and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its ancient alleyways, used as the backdrop for numerous blockbuster films like Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, and Game of Thrones. Continue along the scenic Ounila Valley to reach Telouet Kasbah, once a lavish palace and residence of the powerful El Glaoui family. Though partially in ruins, its ornate zellij tiles and carved cedar ceilings hint at its former grandeur. After lunch, embark on the thrilling journey across the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest in Morocco at 2,260 meters. The views of the High Atlas Mountains are simply spectacular, with winding roads, terraced fields, and Berber villages dotting the hillsides. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Marrakech, where you’ll be dropped off at your riad and can begin exploring the vibrant Red City.

Day 8: Marrakech City Tour

Your final day in Marrakech begins with a guided tour of Marrakech, a city that blends ancient tradition with modern flair. Explore the pulsating heart of the city at Jemaa el-Fna Square, where storytellers, snake charmers, and street performers create an unforgettable atmosphere. Visit the serene Majorelle Garden, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, and marvel at the majestic Koutoubia Mosque, the largest in Marrakech. Step into history at the ornate Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs, each a testament to Morocco’s rich architectural heritage. Wander through the colorful souks, where artisans craft everything from spices to carpets and lanterns. If time allows, visit the old Mellah (Jewish Quarter) for deeper insight into Marrakech’s multicultural past.

Free evenings.

Accommodation in Riad in the medina of Marrakech.

Day 9: Marrakech → Casablanca → Rabat

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at your riad in Marrakech, we begin the final leg of your journey by taking the modern highway north toward Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and economic capital. Upon arrival in Casablanca, the highlight of the visit is a stop at the Hassan II Mosque, one of the most iconic landmarks in the country. Perched dramatically on the Atlantic Ocean, this architectural masterpiece is the largest mosque in Morocco and the second-largest in Africa. With its intricately detailed mosaics, towering minaret (the tallest in the world at 210 meters), and stunning oceanfront location, it offers a profound blend of tradition, spirituality, and modern design.

After taking time to admire the mosque and perhaps enjoy a stroll along the nearby Corniche, we continue our journey toward Rabat, Morocco’s elegant capital city. Arriving in the early evening, your driver will drop you off at your accommodation or at the Rabat airport, marking the end of your 9 Days Morocco Tour from Rabat.

We hope this unforgettable journey through Morocco’s cities, mountains, deserts, and coastlines has left you with incredible memories, deep cultural insights, and a lasting connection to this enchanting country.

NB: It’s possible to end the tour in Casablanca or Marrakech

Tour Gallery: 9 Days Morocco Tour from Rabat