Want to see the best of Morocco? This 9-day tour from Ouarzazate to the Imperial Cities is perfect for you!
This article will tell you everything you need to know about our amazing Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days. We’ll take you on a journey through stunning landscapes, historical cities, and the breathtaking Sahara Desert. This guide will show you what to expect each day, what’s included, and how to make the most of your Moroccan adventure. Prepare to discover the magic of Morocco with this unforgettable Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days!
Highlights of Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days
- Explore the famous Kasbahs of Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou.
- Ride a camel in the Sahara Desert and sleep under the stars in a desert camp.
- Discover the vibrant souks (markets) of Marrakech.
- Visit the historical cities of Fes, Meknes, and Rabat.
- Experience the rich culture and traditions of Morocco.
- Enjoy delicious Moroccan food, from tagine to couscous.
- Travel comfortably in a private or shared vehicle with an English-speaking driver.
- Make memories that will last a lifetime!
Why This Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days is Special
This Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days is more than just a trip; it’s an experience. We’ve carefully planned every detail to make sure your journey is unforgettable. From the stunning desert landscapes to the bustling city streets, you’ll be amazed by the beauty and diversity of Morocco.
What makes this tour truly special is the chance to connect with the local culture. You’ll meet friendly people, taste authentic Moroccan cuisine, and learn about the country’s rich history. We want you to feel comfortable and relaxed throughout your journey, so we provide comfortable transportation and hand-picked accommodations. With this Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.
Itinerary of Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days
Day 1: Ouarzazate – Ait Benhaddou – Dades Valley
Our journey begins in Ouarzazate, often called the "Door to the Desert." We’ll pick you up from your hotel and head towards Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient fortified village is famous for its stunning architecture and has been featured in many movies, like "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones." You’ll have time to explore the Kasbah, wander through its narrow streets, and take amazing photos.
After lunch in Ait Benhaddou, we continue to the Dades Valley. The drive is scenic, taking us through the Valley of Roses, known for its beautiful rose plantations. We will arrive at our hotel in the Dades Valley in the late afternoon. Here you’ll enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner and a comfortable night’s sleep, ready for the adventures that await you.
Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga
After breakfast in the Dades Valley, we will drive towards the Todra Gorge. This is a spectacular canyon with towering cliffs that reach up to 300 meters high. You’ll have time to walk through the gorge, admire the incredible rock formations, and perhaps even try some rock climbing if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s a truly breathtaking sight.
In the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey to Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. As we approach Merzouga, you’ll start to see the vast sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. Tonight, you’ll stay in a hotel near the dunes, where you can relax and prepare for your desert adventure tomorrow.
Day 3: Merzouga – Camel Trek – Desert Camp
Today is all about the Sahara Desert! After breakfast, we’ll prepare for our camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Riding a camel is a classic Moroccan experience, and it’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert. The camel trek will take about an hour and a half, and you’ll be amazed by the stunning scenery as you ride.
As the sun begins to set, we’ll arrive at our desert camp. The camp is a traditional Berber camp, with comfortable tents and a cozy atmosphere. You’ll enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner under the stars, accompanied by traditional music and storytelling around a campfire. It’s an unforgettable experience.
Day 4: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Midelt
Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the Sahara Desert. It’s a magical sight that you won’t want to miss. After breakfast at the desert camp, we’ll ride our camels back to Merzouga. From there, we’ll begin our journey north towards Fes.
We will drive through the Ziz Valley, a beautiful oasis with palm trees and stunning views. We’ll stop for lunch in Midelt, a town located in the Middle Atlas Mountains. In the late afternoon, we’ll arrive at our hotel in Midelt, where you can relax and enjoy a peaceful evening.
Day 5: Midelt – Ifrane – Fes
After breakfast in Midelt, we’ll continue our drive to Fes. Along the way, we’ll stop in Ifrane, a charming town known as "Little Switzerland" because of its European-style architecture and cool climate. You can take a walk through the town and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
We’ll arrive in Fes in the afternoon. Fes is the oldest of Morocco’s Imperial Cities and is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Tonight, you’ll stay in a traditional riad (a Moroccan house with an interior garden) in the heart of the Fes medina (old city).
Day 6: Fes – Guided City Tour
Today, you’ll have a full day to explore Fes with a local guide. You’ll visit the famous Al-Attarine Madrasa, a beautiful Islamic school with intricate tilework and carvings. You’ll also visit the Chouara Tanneries, where leather is processed using traditional methods.
You’ll wander through the narrow streets of the Fes medina, discovering hidden courtyards, bustling souks, and ancient mosques. You can sample local delicacies like pastilla (a sweet and savory pie) and mint tea. In the evening, you’ll have free time to explore Fes on your own or relax at your riad.
Day 7: Fes – Meknes – Volubilis – Rabat
After breakfast in Fes, we’ll drive to Meknes, another of Morocco’s Imperial Cities. You’ll visit Bab Mansour, the grand gateway to the city, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, a beautifully decorated tomb.
Next, we’ll visit Volubilis, an ancient Roman city with well-preserved ruins. You can explore the ruins and imagine what life was like in Roman times. In the afternoon, we’ll continue to Rabat, the capital of Morocco. You’ll stay in a hotel in Rabat tonight.
Day 8: Rabat – Casablanca – Marrakech
Today, we’ll explore Rabat, visiting the Hassan Tower, an unfinished mosque, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a beautiful tomb. We’ll then drive to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city. You’ll visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world.
In the afternoon, we’ll drive to Marrakech, the final stop on our Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days. You’ll stay in a riad in the heart of the Marrakech medina.
Day 9: Marrakech – Guided City Tour – Departure
Today, you’ll have a full day to explore Marrakech with a local guide. You’ll visit the Bahia Palace, a stunning palace with beautiful gardens, and the Saadian Tombs, a hidden gem with intricate carvings.
You’ll also visit the Djemaa el-Fna square, a bustling marketplace with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls. In the evening, you’ll be transferred to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure flight. This marks the end of your incredible Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days.
What’s Included in Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days
- You’ll travel in a comfortable car or van, either just for you or with a small group.
- You’ll have a place to stay each night in nice hotels or a cool desert camp.
- You’ll get breakfast and dinner every day to keep you fueled up.
- You’ll get to ride a camel or have another fun desert adventure.
- You’ll have a friendly guide or driver who speaks English to help you along the way.
- We’ll pick you up and drop you off where you need to go.
What’s Not Included Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days
- You’ll need to book your own plane tickets to and from Morocco.
- You’ll need to pay for your own lunch and any drinks you want.
- Make sure you have travel insurance in case anything goes wrong.
- You’ll need to pay for entrance fees to any historical sites you want to visit.
- Remember to bring some money for tips and souvenirs!
Optional Add-Ons
- You can upgrade your desert camp to a fancy one with more comforts.
- You can hire a private guide to show you around the cities.
- You can go quad biking or sandboarding in the desert.
- You can stay extra nights in Marrakech, Fes, or Casablanca to explore more on your own.
Helpful Travel Tips for Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days
The best time to take this trip is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). The weather is mild and comfortable during these months.
When packing, bring comfortable clothing that you can layer. The weather can change quickly, especially in the desert. Also, pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases and tips. ATMs are widely available in the cities.
You can buy a local SIM card for your phone to stay connected. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and riads. Remember to bring a portable charger for your phone.
Be prepared for temperature differences between day and night, especially in the desert. It can be hot during the day and very cold at night.
Stay safe by being aware of your surroundings and avoiding walking alone at night. Keep your valuables secure.
Respect local customs and traditions by dressing modestly and asking permission before taking photos of people. Learn a few basic Arabic phrases like "Shukran" (thank you) and "Salam" (hello).
FAQs About Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days
Is Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days good for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s great for solo travelers! You’ll meet other people on the tour, and the guide will help you feel safe and comfortable. It’s a fantastic way to experience Morocco on your own.
What kind of meals are included in Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days?
We include breakfast and dinner each day. The meals are usually traditional Moroccan food, like tagine, couscous, and salads. We can also accommodate dietary restrictions if you let us know in advance.
Can I customize Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days with extra stops?
Yes, we can often customize the tour to include extra stops or activities. Just let us know what you’re interested in, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your requests. It may depend on logistics and availability.
What clothes should I pack for Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days?
Pack comfortable clothes that you can layer. Bring lightweight clothing for the day and warmer clothes for the evening, especially in the desert. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Is it safe to ride camels during Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days?
Yes, it’s safe to ride camels. Our camel guides are experienced and will ensure your safety. They’ll help you mount and dismount the camel, and they’ll make sure you’re comfortable throughout the ride.
Do I need to speak Arabic or French?
No, you don’t need to speak Arabic or French. Our guides speak English, and many people in the tourist areas also speak English. However, learning a few basic Arabic phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
Will my phone work during Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days?
Yes, your phone will work in most cities and towns. However, coverage may be limited in the desert. You can buy a local SIM card for better coverage and cheaper rates.
Our Dear Cutomers Reviews
Sarah M. – United States
I loved the Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days! The desert camp was amazing, and the camel ride was so much fun. Our guide, Hassan, was very knowledgeable and made the trip even better.
David L. – United Kingdom
My family and I had a fantastic time on this tour. The food was delicious, and the cities were so interesting to explore. The Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days gave us a great overview of Morocco.
Marie S. – France
As a solo traveler, I felt very safe and welcome on this tour. The desert was a magical experience. The Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days was well-organized and allowed me to discover the beauty and culture of Morocco.
Conclusion
The Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days is your gateway to experiencing the magic of Morocco. This meticulously planned itinerary offers a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation, ensuring an unforgettable journey through historical cities and breathtaking landscapes. From the ancient kasbahs to the vast Sahara Desert, every moment is designed to immerse you in the beauty and authenticity of Morocco.
If you’re looking for a way to see the best of Morocco in a short amount of time, this tour is the perfect choice. You’ll get to experience the vibrant culture, taste delicious food, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Ouarzazate To Imperial Cities Tour 9 Days gives you a complete Moroccan experience in just a few days. If you’re ready to explore, this tour is the perfect way to begin your journey.