12 morocco desert tour from marrakech
12 morocco desert tour
12 Days Morocco Desert Tour Embark on the ultimate Moroccan adventure—a 12-day journey from the vibrant heart of Marrakech to the timeless silence of the Sahara Desert. This meticulously crafted tour is designed for the traveler who seeks not just a vacation, but an immersive experience. We will guide you through a land of dramatic contrasts, where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Your journey through the soul of Morocco includes:
- The Red City: Explore the bustling souks and iconic Djemaa el-Fna square in Marrakech.
- Historic Kasbahs: Walk in the footsteps of legends at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou.
- Cinematic Landscapes: Traverse the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka Pass over the High Atlas Mountains and venture into the vast, otherworldly Skoura Palm Grove.
- Dramatic Canyons: Stand in awe beneath the towering 300-meter cliffs of the Todra Gorge.
- Saharan Magic: Experience the pinnacle of your adventure with a sunset camel trek over the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi and spend a night in a traditional Berber desert camp under a blanket of stars.
- Berber Culture: Enjoy authentic hospitality, share mint tea with local families, and learn about centuries-old traditions.
- Imperial Cities: Discover the medieval medina of Fes, a city alive with artisan crafts and ancient scholarship.
This 12-Day Morocco Desert Tour from Marrakech is more than a trip—it’s a story you will tell forever.
Tour Highlights:
- Camel Trek & Desert Camping: Spend an unforgettable night in a Berber desert camp with music and a traditional meal.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Visit the famous Ksar of Ait Benhaddou and the ancient medina of Fes.
- Scenic Diversity: Witness constantly changing scenery, from snowy mountain peaks and lush oases to deep gorges and endless desert.
- Cultural Immersion: Connect with local communities and gain a deep appreciation for Moroccan culture and history.
The Grand 12-Day Morocco Tour: From Marrakech to the Sahara
12 Days Morocco Desert Tour
12 day Morocco desert tour from Marrakech is a grand clockwise circuit designed to showcase the country's most stunning contrasts. Your adventure begins in the vibrant souks of Marrakech before ascending the dramatic High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass. You'll step back in time at the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou, wander through lush palm groves and Skoura Oasis, and stand in awe within the towering cliffs of Todra Gorge.
The journey's pinnacle is a magical camel trek into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi for a night of Berber hospitality at a desert camp under a blanket of stars. The route then winds through the Ziz Valley to the ancient imperial cities of Fes and Meknes, reveals the Roman ruins of Volubilis, and concludes with a return through the foothills of the Atlas, offering a complete and profound immersion into the heart and soul of Morocco./12 Days Morocco Desert Tour
- Description: Welcome to Morocco! Upon your arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), you will be greeted by your driver and transferred to your traditional Riad or hotel within the medina. After settling in, the day is yours to relax or take a first, tentative stroll through the vibrant streets. Enjoy a welcome dinner, sampling your first taste of exquisite Moroccan cuisine./12 Days Morocco Desert Tour
- Accommodation: Riad/Hotel in Marrakech.
- Description: Today is dedicated to uncovering the wonders of Marrakech. Your expert local guide will lead you through the historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, the beautiful Bahia Palace, and the serene Saadian Tombs. Explore the intricate souks, where artisans work on leather, metal, and wood. In the afternoon, experience the mesmerizing spectacle of Djemaa el-Fna square, where storytellers, snake charmers, and food stalls create an unforgettable atmosphere./12 Days Morocco Desert Tour
- Accommodation: Riad/Hotel in Marrakech.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Description: After breakfast, we depart Marrakech and begin our journey east, crossing the breathtaking Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260m) through the High Atlas Mountains. The landscape changes from lush valleys to barren hillsides. We stop at the legendary Ksar of Ait Benhaddou, a fortified village and a UNESCO World Heritage site that has starred in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After lunch and exploration, we continue through the Valley of the Roses towards the Dades Valley, famous for its dramatic rock formations known as "monkey fingers". We spend the night in a hotel overlooking this stunning gorge./12 Days Morocco Desert Tour
- Accommodation: Hotel in Dades Valley.
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
- Description: This day is dedicated to immersing yourself in the raw beauty of the Dades region. After breakfast, embark on a guided trek through the palmeraies and traditional Berber villages that dot the valley. Interact with local communities, learn about their way of life, and witness the ancient irrigation systems. The afternoon is at your leisure to relax at the hotel, enjoy the panoramic views, or take a short drive to explore more hidden corners of the valley. This day offers a peaceful respite and a deeper connection to rural Morocco./12 Days Morocco Desert Tour
- Accommodation: Hotel in Dades Valley.
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
- Description: Today, we drive to the spectacular Todra Gorge, a massive canyon where towering rock cliffs narrow to a crystal-clear river—a paradise for rock climbers and photographers. After some time to walk and absorb the grandeur, we continue towards the Sahara Desert. The landscape slowly transforms into an arid pre-desert, with the first views of the golden dunes appearing on the horizon. Arriving in Merzouga in the late afternoon, you'll mount your camel for a 1-2 hour trek into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Witness a breathtaking sunset from the camel's back before arriving at your luxury Berber desert camp. Enjoy a traditional tagine dinner under a sky full of stars, accompanied by the rhythm of Berber drums./12 Days Morocco Desert Tour
- Accommodation: Luxury Desert Camp (Private tents with en-suite facilities).
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
- Description: Wake up early to experience a magnificent sunrise over the dunes—a truly magical moment. After breakfast at the camp, you'll return to the village of Merzouga by camel or 4x4. The day is spent exploring the fascinating surroundings of the desert by Jeep. Visit a local Berber family for tea, see the nomadic settlements, and discover the black desert with its volcanic rocks. We'll visit the mining village of Khamlia, where you'll enjoy a performance of spiritual Gnawa music—originating from Sub-Saharan Africa. You might also spot the desert wildlife and see the stunning contrast of an oasis nestled against the dunes./12 Days Morocco Desert Tour
- Accommodation: Hotel/Auberge at the edge of the dunes.
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
- Description: After a final Saharan sunrise, we begin our long but scenic journey north towards Fes. We drive through the breathtaking Ziz Valley, a vast palm oasis that cuts through the desert. Stop in Midelt, nestled in the heart of the Atlas Mountains, for lunch. The journey continues through the Middle Atlas mountains, where the landscape turns to cedar forests. We make a unique stop in Ifrane, known as "Morocco's Switzerland" for its alpine-style architecture, and you might spot Barbary macaque monkeys in the cedar forests near Azrou. We arrive in the imperial city of Fes in the evening./12 Days Morocco Desert Tour
- Accommodation: Riad/Hotel in Fes.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Description: Today, you will discover why Fes is considered Morocco's cultural and spiritual heart. With a knowledgeable local guide, you will explore the ancient Fes el-Bali medina, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the famous Al-Qarawiyyin University, the tanneries (from a terrace for a iconic view), the Bou Inania Madrasa, and the Royal Palace gates. Get lost in the labyrinth of alleys filled with shops selling spices, leather, brass, and traditional crafts. This is a day of intense sensory and cultural immersion.
- Accommodation: Riad/Hotel in Fes.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Description: We leave Fes after breakfast and drive northwest into the Rif Mountains towards the mesmerizing blue city of Chefchaouen. Upon arrival, you'll be captivated by the striking blue-washed walls of the medina. The entire afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace. Wander through its serene blue alleyways, shop for unique local handicrafts, hike to the Spanish Mosque for a panoramic sunset view over the town, and simply soak in the incredibly peaceful and photogenic atmosphere.
- Accommodation: Hotel/Riad in Chefchaouen.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Description: After breakfast and perhaps some last moments in the blue streets, we depart for the capital city, Rabat. Here, we will visit key historical sites including the Hassan Tower and the magnificent Mausoleum of Mohammed V. We then continue to the Oudayas Kasbah overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. After our tour of Rabat, we drive south to the economic hub of Morocco, Casablanca. Here, the highlight is a visit to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, spectacularly perched on the edge of the ocean.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Casablanca.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Description: Enjoy a final breakfast in Casablanca. You may have some free time for last-minute photos or a stroll along the Corniche. In the late morning, we begin our journey back to Marrakech, driving through the scenic Moroccan countryside. The rest of the day in Marrakech is free for you to do some last-minute souvenir shopping, revisit a favorite spot, or simply relax and reflect on your incredible 12-day Moroccan adventure.
- Accommodation: Riad/Hotel in Marrakech.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Description: Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy one last Moroccan breakfast. You will then be transferred to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable 12 Days Morocco Desert Tour From Marrakech.
- Meals: Breakfast.
12 dain morocco itinerary tour
morocco in 12 days
- Transportation:
- Comfortable, air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle or Minivan (depending on group size) for the entire tour.
- Professional, English-speaking driver
- Fuel, tolls, and all associated transportation costs.
- Camel Trek in Merzouga (each person gets their own camel for the desert journey to the camp).
- 4x4 Jeep Safari during the Merzouga discovery day.
- Accommodation:
- 11 Nights accommodation in carefully selected hotels, Riads (traditional Moroccan houses), and auberges.
- 1 Night in a luxury Sahara Desert Camp in Erg Chebbi (typically featuring private Berber tents with comfortable beds and en-suite bathrooms).
- Meals:
- Daily Breakfast at all accommodations.
- Half-Board (Breakfast & Dinner) during the desert and valley segments of the tour (typically from Day 3 to Day 6).
- Guides & Experiences:
- Local Certified Guides for the city tours in Marrakech and Fes.
- Guided visit of the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah.
- Gnawa Music performance in Khamlia village (Merzouga).
- Logistics:
- Airport Transfers on arrival and departure (Day 1 & Day 12).
- All applicable taxes.
12 days itineary
- International Flights to/from Morocco.
- Lunch & Drinks: Most lunches, all beverages (soft drinks, bottled water, alcohol), and tips are not included. This allows you the freedom to choose what you like.
- Entrance Fees: Fees to monuments, museums, and attractions (e.g., Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, Medersas, Hassan II Mosque, etc.). These are typically paid on-site.
- Travel Insurance (Highly recommended).
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, additional snacks, etc.
- Tips: Tips for your driver, guides, camel handlers, and hotel staff are customary and appreciated, but are at your discretion.
12 day morocco tour
Q1: What is the best time of year to do this 12-day desert tour?
A: The ideal times are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm in the cities and mild in the desert, making it perfect for exploration. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in the desert, while winters can be very cold at night in the mountains and Sahara.12 days morocco Desert tour
Q2: How demanding is this tour? Is it suitable for children or seniors?
A: The tour is moderately paced with long driving days on some occasions (e.g., Day 7). While it is not physically strenuous, it does involve walking through medinas and a camel trek. It is generally suitable for children aged 6+ and active seniors. The itinerary can often be customized for a more relaxed pace upon request./12 days morocco Desert tour
Q3: What should I pack for this trip?
A: Key items include:
- Clothing: Light layers for the day, warm layers for cool desert nights, a sun hat, and a scarf (for sun and sand).
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for cities and sturdy sandals.
- Essentials: High-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, toiletries, and any necessary medications.
- Technology: Camera, power bank, and a universal travel adapter (Type C / E).
Q4: What is the accommodation like?
A: You will experience a variety of authentic accommodations:
- Riads: Traditional Moroccan guesthouses with interior courtyards, located within the old medinas.
- Desert Camp: A luxury camp with private tents featuring proper beds and en-suite bathrooms.
- Hotels/Auberges: Comfortable, tourist-class hotels, often with swimming pools in the Dades Valley and Merzouga.
Q5: Is the camel trek safe? What if I’m not comfortable riding a camel?
A: Yes, the camel trek is very safe. The camels are well-trained and led by experienced Berber guides. If you are not comfortable riding a camel, it is usually possible to be driven directly to the desert camp by a 4×4 vehicle instead. This must be arranged in advance.12 days morocco Desert tour
Q6: Are meals included? What about dietary restrictions?
A: Daily breakfast is included throughout the tour. Dinners are included during the desert segment (Days 3-6). Lunches and other dinners are not included, giving you the freedom to choose and budget accordingly. Dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.) can be accommodated with prior notice. Please inform us at the time of booking.12 days morocco Desert tour
Q7: What currency should I bring, and is it easy to access money?
A: The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). It is best to bring some Euros or US Dollars to exchange upon arrival. ATMs are widely available in all major cities (Marrakech, Fes, Casablanca) but are less common in rural areas and the desert. It’s advisable to carry sufficient cash for souvenirs, tips, and lunches during the desert days./12 days morocco Desert tour
Q8: Is Morocco safe for tourists?
A: Yes, Morocco is considered a very safe country for tourists. The government heavily invests in tourist security. As with travel anywhere, it’s important to exercise common sense: be aware of your surroundings, don’t flash valuables, and follow your guide’s advice./12 days morocco Desert tour
Q9: Do I need a visa to travel to Morocco?
A: Citizens of the EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry. Always check the latest entry requirements with your local Moroccan embassy or consulate before traveling./12 days morocco Desert tour
Q10: What is the group size for this tour?
A: This depends how meny peaple you are its a Private tours for families, couples, and friend /12 days morocco Desert tour
Q11: Is Wi-Fi readily available?
A: Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and Riads in the cities, though the connection can sometimes be slow. Connectivity is very limited or non-existent in the desert and some mountainous areas. It’s a great opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the experience./12 days morocco Desert tour
Q12: How much should I budget for tips?
A: Tipping is a customary part of the culture in Morocco for good service. It is not obligatory but is greatly appreciated. A general guideline is:
- Driver: 100-300 MAD per day per person.
- Local City Guides: 100-200 MAD per person.
- Camel Guides: 50-100 MAD per person.
- Restaurant Staff: 5-10% of the bill for good service.
- Hotel Staff: 20-40 MAD for porters.