This 8-day imperial cities tour in Morocco takes you on an unforgettable journey through the country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Explore the four royal cities—Fes, Meknès, Rabat, and Marrakech—each showcasing magnificent palaces, historic sites, and bustling souks. Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, the legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, and famous movie locations. Wander through the blue streets of Chefchaouen, traverse the breathtaking Todra and Dades Gorges, and experience camel trekking in the Sahara Desert. Along the way, encounter Barbary macaques in the cedar forests, explore lush oasis valleys, and take in the beauty of Morocco’s diverse landscapes. This 8-day journey blends history, adventure, and cultural immersion for an unforgettable Moroccan experience.
If you’re planning to extend your trip, our Morocco itinerary 10 Days gives you time to explore Morocco’s full flavor. Our Best 13 days Morocco Tour adds more destinations and desert immersion. You can can also extend your Marrakech visit with a scenic day trip to Ouzoud waterfalls.
Fes (Google Map)
8 Days
Fes (Google Map)
This 8-day imperial cities tour in Morocco offers an unforgettable journey through the country’s most historic and breathtaking destinations. Explore the imperial cities of Fes, Meknès, Rabat, and Marrakech, where you’ll discover magnificent palaces, ancient medinas, and vibrant souks. Wander through the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen, a charming artistic town nestled in the Rif Mountains. Step back in time at Volubilis, an ancient Roman site with well-preserved mosaics and grand ruins. Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert, where you’ll embark on a camel trek across the golden dunes of Merzouga, followed by a night under the stars in a traditional desert camp. The journey continues through the dramatic landscapes of the Todra and Dades Gorges, offering breathtaking rock formations and lush valley views. Visit the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its earthen architecture and cinematic history. Along the way, encounter Barbary macaques in the cedar forests, explore lush oasis valleys, and immerse yourself in the scents of Moroccan spices, fragrant rose fields, and the rhythm of Berber traditions. This tour blends history, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring a truly immersive Moroccan adventure.
Want to add a desert leg to your route? Our 9 Days Trip in Morocco blends cities and Sahara in one trip.
Your 8-day imperial cities Morocco tour begins with a morning pickup from your riad in Fes. The adventure starts with a visit to Volubilis, an ancient Roman settlement dating back to the 3rd century, known for its well-preserved mosaics, grand arches, and historical ruins. If time allows, we’ll also explore Meknès, the fourth imperial city, where you can admire its majestic gates, historic medina, and remnants of its royal past.
Continuing north, the landscape transforms into lush, green surroundings that resemble European countryside rather than the dry Moroccan terrain. In the afternoon, we arrive in Chefchaouen, the enchanting Blue City nestled in the Rif Mountains. After check-in at your riad, enjoy free time to wander through the blue-washed streets, soak in the serene atmosphere, and take in the stunning mountain views. An evening stroll through the medina is highly recommended, offering a glimpse into Chefchaouen’s unique charm and artistic flair.
After breakfast at your riad, take some time for a final stroll through the charming medina of Chefchaouen, soaking in the last views of its blue-washed streets and mountain scenery. Then, we begin our journey westward to Rabat, the capital of Morocco and one of its four imperial cities.
In Rabat, we explore some of its most historic landmarks, including the Hassan Tower, an unfinished 12th-century minaret, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, an architectural masterpiece honoring Morocco’s former king. We also visit the Kasbah of Oudayas, a fortified citadel overlooking the Bou Regreg River, featuring a blend of Andalusian-style architecture and breathtaking ocean views.
After exploring Rabat, we continue our drive west to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and economic hub. Arriving in the late afternoon or evening, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind after a day of cultural discovery.
After breakfast at your hotel, the 8-day imperial cities Morocco tour continues with a visit to Hassan II Mosque, an architectural marvel and the second-largest mosque in Africa. Located on a scenic headland overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this grand structure boasts intricate Moroccan craftsmanship, a towering minaret standing at 210 meters, and stunning oceanfront views.
Following our visit, we begin the drive south toward Marrakech, known as the Red City due to its striking terracotta-colored buildings. As we traverse the changing landscapes, you’ll witness Morocco’s diverse scenery before arriving in Marrakech in the afternoon. Upon arrival, we transfer you to your traditional riad in the heart of the medina, where you’ll have time to relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city.
Start your day with a traditional Moroccan breakfast, featuring fresh pita bread, eggs, and sweet green mint tea. Today’s itinerary includes a guided tour of Marrakech, where your local guide will pick you up from your riad or hotel for an in-depth exploration of this historic and vibrant city.
During the tour, visit the Koutoubia Mosque, known for its iconic minaret, and the Saadian Tombs, a stunning royal burial site that remained hidden for centuries until its rediscovery in 1917. Continue to the Bahia Palace, a magnificent 19th-century royal residence showcasing intricate Moroccan craftsmanship and lush gardens.
After the guided tour, spend the afternoon at your leisure. If time allows, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fna Square, where storytellers, musicians, and street performers create an unforgettable experience. Browse the bustling market stalls filled with local spices, handicrafts, and exotic goods.
In the evening, we’ll transfer you back to your riad or hotel, or you can opt for a scenic ride in one of Marrakech’s traditional horse-drawn carriages, adding a magical touch to your day in this imperial city.
After breakfast, we set off for a scenic journey toward Boumalne Dades, passing through some of Morocco’s most breathtaking landscapes. Our route takes us high into the Atlas Mountains, where we stop at the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m) to enjoy its spectacular panoramic views.
Continuing our adventure, we visit the UNESCO-listed Ksar of Aït Benhaddou, a historic fortress of earthen clay architecture that has served as the backdrop for many famous films, including Game of Thrones and Gladiator. This iconic kasbah stands as one of the best-preserved examples of southern Moroccan architecture, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich history.
Next, we make our way to Ouarzazate, often called the Hollywood of Morocco, home to Atlas Film Studios and numerous cinematic locations. After a brief stop, we continue to the Valley of Roses, a region famous for its rose water, perfumes, and artisanal beauty products. Visitors can explore local cooperatives offering handmade rose-scented oils and soaps.
As we enter the Road of 1000 Kasbahs, the journey unveils a fascinating mix of ancient fortresses and lush river oases, reflecting the area’s historical importance as a vital trade route. By evening, we arrive in Boumalne Dades, where you’ll settle into a traditional riad or hotel for a well-deserved rest after an incredible day of exploration.
After breakfast, we begin our journey deeper into Morocco’s stunning landscapes, starting with a visit to the Dades Gorge, where towering rock formations and winding roads create a breathtaking scene. The sheer cliffs and rugged terrain, shaped by centuries of erosion, make this valley one of the most impressive in Morocco.
Next, we continue to the Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon at 1,550 meters above sea level, located near the Berber town of Tinghir. The towering 300-meter-high rock walls, carved by the Todra River, provide a spectacular backdrop for travelers exploring this natural wonder.
As we journey toward the Sahara Desert, the landscape transforms once again, revealing bizarre rock formations, wide oasis valleys, and ancient Kasbahs. In Erfoud, we stop at a local fossil workshop, where artisans craft jewelry and home decor items from prehistoric marine fossils found in the region.
By late afternoon, we reach Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, your camel trek begins, leading you across the mesmerizing golden dunes as the sun sets over the Sahara. Arriving at your desert camp, you’ll enjoy a traditional Berber dinner, followed by an evening of music and storytelling under the starry desert sky. This magical night in the heart of the Sahara is sure to be an unforgettable highlight of your journey.
Start your day with a delicious Moroccan breakfast, featuring freshly baked bread, olives, egg dishes in a tajine, and sweet mint tea. Today’s journey offers a deep dive into the culture and landscapes of the Merzouga region, exploring the diverse ways of life in the Sahara Desert.
We begin with an off-road adventure through the dunes, passing through vast fossil plains and abandoned coal mines, remnants of Morocco’s ancient past. A visit to the Gnawa musicians in the village of Khamlia is a highlight, where you’ll experience soulful desert rhythms and traditional music passed down through generations.
Our cultural immersion continues with a tea ceremony in a nomadic tent, where you’ll learn about the desert lifestyle from real Berber nomads. Enjoy an authentic Berber lunch, featuring Madfouna (Berber pizza), a traditional dish baked in the sand.
The afternoon is yours to relax or explore. You can wander through the dunes, take a 4×4 excursion, or even try sandboarding for a thrilling desert experience. As the day winds down, enjoy another tranquil night in the desert, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the Sahara.
We set off early for our journey back to Fes, covering a scenic route through Morocco’s diverse landscapes. Our first stop offers a breathtaking view of the Ziz Valley, where thousands of palm trees stretch across the oasis, creating a striking contrast against the desert terrain.
Crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains, we take breaks at panoramic viewpoints, allowing time to soak in the beauty of Morocco’s ever-changing scenery. One of the highlights of the day is the drive through Ifrane National Park, home to one of Morocco’s largest cedar forests. If we’re lucky, we’ll encounter Barbary macaques, which have migrated as far as Gibraltar. While feeding them is permitted, we advise caution to ensure a respectful and safe interaction.
The journey continues through Ifrane, often called “Moroccan Switzerland” due to its alpine-style houses, crisp mountain air, and seasonal snowfall. With its European-influenced architecture and peaceful atmosphere, this town is a unique stop in Morocco.
As we descend the mountains and make our way back to Fes, we transfer you to your traditional riad, where your 8-day imperial cities Morocco tour comes to an end. Whether you choose to relax or explore the city one last time, this marks the conclusion of an unforgettable adventure through Morocco’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and cultural treasures.
During my recent trip to Morocco with the Morocco Itinerary Agency, I had the opportunity to explore some of the country’s most fascinating destinations. Our 8-day tour took us to a variety of places, including Fes, Chefchaouen, Casablanca, Marrakech, and the Sahara Desert. In Fes, we were able to immerse ourselves in the city’s rich history and culture. We visited the famous tanneries, where leather is still produced using traditional methods, and explored the winding streets of the medina.
Chefchaouen, known for its stunning blue buildings, was another highlight of the trip. We spent a day wandering through the picturesque streets, taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. In Casablanca, we visited the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. We also had the opportunity to explore the city’s bustling markets and sample some of its delicious street food. Our tour concluded in Marrakech, where we visited the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square and the stunning Bahia Palace. Finally, we embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the Sahara Desert, where we rode camels and spent a night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp. Overall, my 8 days in Morocco with the Morocco Itinerary Agency was an unforgettable experience. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to explore the best of what Morocco has to offer.
We recently took a 8-day tour from Fes to Sahara Desert. The tour was well-organized and included all the major attractions. Our guide was knowledgeable and made sure we were comfortable throughout the trip. The desert experience was unforgettable, and the night sky was breathtaking. Ait ben Haddou kasbah was a great Kasbah with a rich history and culture. thanks Morocco itinerary team for this amazing trip.
The 8-day Morocco tour from Fes to Merzouga Desert and Marrakech was an unforgettable experience. The itinerary was well-planned and allowed us to see the best of Morocco. We started in Fes and we visited the Royal Palace, the Jewish Quarter, and the famous tanneries. Overall, the tour was well-organized, the accommodations were comfortable, and the guides were knowledgeable. The highlight of the trip was the camel ride in the Merzouga Desert and watching the sunset over the sand dunes. We also visited the Todra Gorge and spent a night in a traditional Berber tent.
Next we visited Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
However to the Atlas Mountains and saw the stunning views from Tizi n’Tichka pass. Next, we explored the Marrakech and we saw the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Finally, we ended the tour in Marrakech, where we I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Morocco.
