16 Days Morocco Desert Tour From Marrakech
16 Days Morocco Desert Tour
Journey Through the Soul of Morocco: A 16-Day Odyssey from Marrakech
16 Days Morocco Desert Tour / Embark on the ultimate adventure with our 16-day grand tour of Morocco, meticulously designed to reveal every facet of this mesmerizing country. Beginning in the vibrant heart of Marrakech, this epic journey will guide you through ancient imperial cities, over breathtaking mountain passes, into the vast silence of the Sahara Desert, and out to the breezy Atlantic coast.
This is more than a tour; it’s a deep immersion into a land of timeless traditions, dramatic landscapes, and unparalleled hospitality. You will not just see Morocco—you will experience it with all your senses.
Your Journey at a Glance:
- Imperial Majesty: Walk through living history in the four royal cities. Lose yourself in the medieval labyrinth of Fes, explore the monumental gates of Meknes, and be captivated by the endless energy of Marrakech.
- Sahara Desert Adventure: Fulfill your dream of riding a camel into the golden dunes of Merzouga. Spend an unforgettable night in a Berber desert camp, where a blanket of stars replaces the city lights and silence speaks volumes.
- Atlas Mountains & Valleys: Traverse the majestic High Atlas Mountains via winding roads that reveal stunning vistas at every turn. Discover hidden oases, lush palm groves, and fortified villages clinging to mountainsides.
- Coastal Escape: Feel the fresh Atlantic breeze in the charming blue-and-white port city of Essaouira—a haven of art, history, and fresh seafood.
- Cinematic History: Stand in awe before the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aït Benhaddou, an ancient ksar that has set the stage for countless Hollywood epics.
- Cultural Connection: Engage authentically with local culture—from sharing a traditional mint tea with Berber families to hearing the call to prayer echo through ancient medinas and bargaining for treasures in bustling souks.
What Makes This Tour Special:
Our itinerary is expertly crafted to create a logical and scenic loop, maximizing your time and minimizing fatigue. You’ll travel in comfort, with a mix of cultural immersion, adventurous activities, and scenic drives that ensure every day brings a new and awe-inspiring discovery. This is the complete Moroccan experience, designed for the traveler who wants to see it all.
Join us for an unforgettable 16-day voyage that will capture your heart and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.16 Days Morocco Desert Tour
Morocco in 16 Days: The Ultimate Tour from Marrakech
16 Days Morocco Desert Tour /This expertly paced 16-day itinerary unfolds like a classic Moroccan tale, beginning and ending in the pulsating heart of Marrakech. Your adventure launches into the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n'Tichka pass to discover the ancient kasbah of Aït Benhaddou and the dramatic Dades Valley.
The journey then builds towards its breathtaking climax: a sunset camel trek into the endless Erg Chebbi dunes of the Sahara Desert for a night of Berber hospitality under the stars. From the desert, you'll travel to the spiritual and cultural zenith of Fes, exploring its medieval medina,
before the route sweeps west to the coastal charm of Essaouira. The final leg returns you to Marrakech, having completed a magnificent circuit that seamlessly weaves together imperial history, desert solitude, mountain grandeur, and coastal serenity, ensuring no two days are ever the same./16 Days Morocco Desert Tour
Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your riad in the medina. Settle in and absorb your first impressions of this vibrant city. The evening is yours to relax. We recommend a gentle stroll to the famous Djemaa el-Fna square, where the air fills with the aroma of sizzling food, the sound of traditional Gnawa music, and the captivating energy of storytellers and performers as dusk falls.
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Marrakech's historical treasures. Explore the serene Saadian Tombs, the magnificent Bahia Palace, and the vibrant Mellah (Jewish Quarter). Witness the intricate craftsmanship of the Ben Youssef Medersa. In the afternoon, delve into the labyrinthine souks, a kaleidoscope of colors and crafts. The tour concludes at the Koutoubia Mosque, whose minaret watches over the city. Your evening is free to explore further or enjoy a traditional dinner with a view over the bustling square.
Today, we journey east, crossing the breathtaking Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260m) through the High Atlas Mountains. Our first stop is the ancient Glaoui Kasbah in Telouet, a once-powerful fortress that controlled the salt road. We then continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou, Morocco's most famous ksar (fortified village). You'll walk through its earthen clay architecture, a legendary backdrop for films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Overnight in a hotel with views of this ancient citadel.
A short drive takes us to Ouarzazate, "the Hollywood of Africa," where you may visit the Atlas Film Studios. We then travel the "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs" through the Skoura palm grove, seeing the well-preserved Kasbah Amridil. The route continues through the fragrant Valley of the Roses (spectacular in April/May) and into the dramatic rock formations of the Dades Gorge. We spend the night in a hotel overlooking the winding Dades Valley.
After breakfast, we drive through stunning landscapes to the Todra Gorge, where towering canyon walls (up to 300m high) create a paradise for rock climbers and photographers. You can walk along the river at its base. In the afternoon, the horizon flattens, and the first golden dunes of the Sahara appear. Arriving in Merzouga, you'll be greeted by your camels. Embark on a magical camel trek into the heart of the Erg Chebbi dunes as the sun sets. Spend a memorable night in a traditional Berber desert camp, enjoying a delicious tagine dinner and music under a blanket of stars.
Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast the day is dedicated to exploring the desert surroundings by 4x4. Visit a nomadic family to learn about their way of life, see the black desert hamada and fossil quarries, and perhaps visit the nearby village of Khamlia to experience their unique Gnawa music, rooted in Sub-Saharan African traditions.
After a final Sahara sunrise, we begin our long but scenic drive north. We pass through the stunning Ziz Valley, a gorge lined with a massive palmery. Stop for lunch in Midelt, nestled in the Atlas Mountains. The landscape transforms as we cross the Middle Atlas, passing through the cedar forests of Azrou where Barbary macaques monkeys live. A surprising stop is in Ifrane, known as "Morocco's Switzerland" for its alpine-style architecture. We arrive in the imperial city of Fes in the evening.
Today is dedicated to exploring the ancient medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO site and one of the world's largest car-free urban areas. With a local guide, you'll discover the iconic Blue Gate (Bab Bou Jeloud), the intricate Attarine Medersa, the outside of the Moulay Idriss II mausoleum, and the famous Chouara Tannery for a bird's-eye view of the ancient dyeing pits. Dive into the labyrinth of souks, each dedicated to a specific craft, from leather and brass to silks and spices.
Today we journey northwest into the Rif Mountains to the enchanting blue-washed city of Chefchaouen. Afternoon is free to explore at your own pace. Get lost in its mesmerizing blue alleyways, shop for unique local woolen crafts, hike to the Spanish Mosque for a panoramic sunset view over the blue medina, and simply soak in the incredibly peaceful and photogenic atmosphere.
Enjoy a full day to immerse yourself in the relaxed vibe of the Blue City. This is your day to unwind, revisit favorite spots, or perhaps take a short hike in the surrounding hills to the Akchour Waterfalls. It’s a perfect opportunity for photography, people-watching from a café, and personal discovery.
We leave the mountains for Morocco's modern capital, Rabat. Here, we'll visit key sites: the majestic Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and take a photo stop at the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas overlooking the Atlantic. In the afternoon, we continue to the economic hub of Casablanca. Here, you will visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, dramatically perched over the ocean.
After breakfast, we drive south along the coast to the fortified port city of Essaouira. Known for its constant Atlantic breeze, it's a haven for surfers and artists. Explore the 18th-century seafront ramparts (the Skala de la Kasbah), wander through the medina (a UNESCO site), watch artisans working with fragrant thuya wood, and breathe in the fresh sea air. Don't miss the vibrant fishing port where the day's catch is auctioned.
A full free day to enjoy Essaouira's charms. Options include a horse or camel ride on the vast beach, windsurfing or kitesurfing lessons, a cooking class to master Moroccan cuisine, or simply relaxing in a café with fresh seafood. The relaxed, artsy atmosphere is the perfect contrast to the bustling imperial cities.
Enjoy a final morning in Essaouira before we drive inland through the Argan tree forest. You might even see the famous tree-climbing goats! We arrive back in Marrakech in the early afternoon. The rest of the day is free for last-minute souvenir shopping, revisiting a favorite site, or simply relaxing.
Your last full day in Morocco is at your leisure. Perhaps visit the beautiful Jardin Majorelle, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, explore the El Badii Palace ruins, indulge in a traditional hammam spa experience, or simply enjoy the vibrant energy of the city one last time.
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy some final free time in Marrakech. You will then be transferred to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure, marking the end of your incredible 16-day Moroccan adventure.
Morocco 16 Days Tour From Marrakech
16 Days Morocco Tour From Marrakech
- Accommodation: 15 nights in carefully selected hotels, riads, and desert camps (typically on a twin/double sharing basis).
- Desert Experience: Overnight stay in a private Berber desert camp at Erg Chebbi, including camel trekking.
- Transportation: All land travel in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle (4x4, minivan, or BUS depending on group size).
- Professional Driver: Services of an experienced English-speaking driverfor the entire tour.
- City Guides: Licensed local guides for official tours in Marrakech and Fes.
- Meals: Daily breakfast at all hotels. 4 Dinner
- Transfers: All airport arrival and departure transfers.
16 days morocco itinerary
- International Flights: Airfare to and from Morocco.
- Lunches & Some Dinners: Most meals (except those specified as included in the itinerary).
- Beverages: All drinks, including water, soft drinks, and alcohol.
- Entrance Fees: Fees to monuments, museums, and attractions (e.g., Bahia Palace, Medersa, Hassan II Mosque).
- Tips: Gratuities for guides, drivers, hotel staff, and restaurant waiters.
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, phone calls, laundry, and any other items of a personal nature.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is strongly recommended.
- Optional Activities: Any activities not explicitly mentioned as included in the itinerary.
16 days morocco desert tour from marrakech
1. What is the best time of year to do this 16-day tour?
The best times are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm in the cities, mild in the mountains, and comfortable in the desert. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in the desert, while winters can be very cold at night in the mountains and desert./16 Days Morocco Desert Tour
2. How physically demanding is this tour?
This tour is considered moderate. It involves:
- Walking: Extensive walking on city tours, especially through the medinas of Fes and Marrakech, which have uneven surfaces.
- Camel Trekking: The camel ride in the desert is gentle and suitable for most fitness levels, but it requires mounting and dismounting.
- Driving: There are several long driving days (e.g., Merzouga to Fes) through mountainous terrain, with frequent stops for photos and exploration./16 Days Morocco Desert Tour
3. What type of accommodation can I expect?
You will experience a variety of authentic Moroccan accommodations:
- Riads: Traditional guesthouses with interior courtyards in cities like Marrakech and Fes.
- Hotels: 3 – 4 stars Comfortable, tourist-class hotels throughout the itinerary.
- Desert Camp: A unique night in a Luxuery Berber tent camp at Erg Chebbi. Private Luxuery Tents
- Auberges/Kasbahs: Charming, often family-run lodges in the valleys and gorges./16 Days Morocco Desert Tour
4. What should I pack for this trip?
- Clothing: Lightweight clothing for the day, warmer layers for cool evenings (especially in the desert and mountains), a warm jacket for winter months, and modest attire (covering shoulders and knees) for visiting religious sites.
- Footwear: Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes and sandals.
- Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a reusable water bottle, toiletries, and any necessary medications.
- Extras: Camera, power bank, a headlamp or flashlight for the desert camp, and a backpack for daily use./16 Days Morocco Desert Tour
5. Are all meals included?
No. Typically, only daily breakfasts and some dinners (e.g., in the desert and Dades Valley) are included. Lunches and most dinners are not, allowing you the freedom to choose where and what you eat based on your preferences and budget. This is always clarified in the “Cost Includes/Excludes” section./16 Days Morocco Desert Tour
6. Is Morocco safe for tourists?
Yes, Morocco is considered a very safe destination for tourists. The country relies heavily on tourism, and locals are generally very hospitable. 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./16 Days Morocco Desert Tour
7. Do I need a visa to travel to Morocco?
Citizens of the EU, US, UK, 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./16 Days Morocco Desert Tour
8. What is the currency, and how much spending money should I bring?
The currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). It is a closed currency, meaning you can only obtain it within Morocco. We recommend bringing some Euros or US Dollars to exchange upon arrival and using ATMs (widely available in cities) for the best rates. Budget for:
- Lunches & Dinners: €10 – €20 per day for meals.
- Entrance Fees: Approximately €10-€15 for sites.
- Souvenirs & Tips: This varies greatly per person./16 Days Morocco Desert Tour
9. Is there a lot of free time on this tour?
Yes, the itinerary is deliberately designed with several free days (in Chefchaouen, Essaouira, and Marrakech) to allow for relaxation, personal exploration, and shopping. This balance ensures the tour is comprehensive but not rushed./16 Days Morocco Desert Tour
10. Can the itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. While this is a set itinerary, we offer private tours that can be customized to your interests, whether it’s adding a cooking class, a longer trek, or different accommodations. Please inquire about private tour options for customization./16 Days Morocco Desert Tour