9 Day Morocco Sahara Desert Itinerary

From Casablanca – LGBTQ Morocco Tours

Overview: 9-Day Morocco Sahara Desert Tour

Experience the best of Morocco on this 9-day journey from Casablanca with LGBTQ Morocco Tours. Explore Morocco's rich culture, history, and natural beauty, from the imperial cities of Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech, to the stunning Sahara Desert dunes in Merzouga. Discover the blue streets of Chefchaouen, visit ancient Roman ruins at Volubilis, and wander through the bustling souks of Fes. Enjoy camel trekking and a night under the stars in the Sahara, drive through the dramatic Todra Gorges and Dades Valley, and marvel at the iconic Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah. Cross the High Atlas Mountains to reach Marrakech and explore its famous medina, palaces, and gardens.

This tour combines culture, adventure, and relaxation, offering an unforgettable Moroccan experience.

Tour Highlights

• Visit Morocco's major cities: Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fes, and Marrakech
• Experience the Sahara Desert with camel trekking and overnight in a desert camp
• Explore historic sites like Volubilis Roman Ruins, Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah
• Enjoy scenic drives through the Rif Mountains, Middle Atlas, Todra Gorges, and Dades Valley
• Discover Morocco's vibrant souks, medinas, and traditional Moroccan architecture
• Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n'Tichka Pass for breathtaking views
• Relax and take in Morocco's natural beauty and culture in Chefchaouen and Merzouga

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Rabat City Discovery

The first day of your Morocco journey begins with your arrival in Casablanca, Morocco's largest city and economic center. Casablanca is a modern city with deep historical roots, originally founded by the Berbers as Anfa and later shaped by Arab, Portuguese, and French influences. Upon arrival, you will visit the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques and a masterpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship. Completed in 1993 during the reign of King Hassan II, the mosque stands partially over the Atlantic Ocean and features the world's tallest minaret, at 210 meters.

After the visit, we continue with a scenic drive along the coast to Rabat, the capital of Morocco and one of its four imperial cities. In Rabat, you will explore the historic Kasbah of the Oudayas, a 12th-century fortress built during the Almohad dynasty, offering beautiful views over the Bou Regreg River and the ocean. The tour continues to Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret from the 12th century, and the nearby Mausoleum of Mohammed V, which honors the former king and symbolizes Morocco's independence. You will end the day with free time in Rabat's medina to stroll through traditional streets, enjoy local shops, or relax at a café.

Overnight stay in Riad Zyo or similar

Day 2: Rabat – Rif Mountains – Chefchaouen

After breakfast, we depart Rabat and head north toward the blue city of Chefchaouen. Along the way, the journey takes us through the fertile plains near Souk Larbaa El Gharb, an important agricultural region, before climbing into the beautiful Rif Mountains. This scenic drive offers green landscapes, rolling hills, and charming rural villages.

Upon arrival in Chefchaouen, a town founded in 1471 as a fortress to protect against Portuguese invasions, you will have free time to explore at your own pace. Chefchaouen later became a refuge for Muslims and Jews fleeing Andalusia, which deeply influenced its culture and architecture. The town is famous for its blue-painted streets, symbolizing peace, spirituality, and harmony.

Enjoy a relaxed walk through the narrow blue alleys, perfect for photography and quiet moments. In the late afternoon, you will walk up to the Spanish Mosque viewpoint, built during the Spanish era, to enjoy a breathtaking sunset overlooking the entire blue city surrounded by the Rif Mountains.

Overnight stay in Dar Echchaouen or similar

Day 3: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

On the third day of our 9-day Morocco itinerary, we leave Chefchaouen and travel south toward the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. This well-preserved archaeological site dates back to the 1st century and was once a major Roman settlement and administrative center of the region. During your visit, you will explore impressive ruins, including mosaics, temples, Roman baths, and triumphal arches that reflect daily life during Roman times in North Africa.

Afterward, we continue to Meknes, another imperial city that reached its peak in the 17th century under Sultan Moulay Ismail. Known as the "Versailles of Morocco," Meknes features massive city walls, grand gates, and strong military architecture that reflect its former power.

Following a short visit, we continue our drive to Fes, the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco, founded in the 9th century and home to one of the world's oldest universities and the largest living medieval medina. Arrival in Fes is expected in the late afternoon.

Overnight stay in Riad Salam Fes or similar

Day 4: Fes City Sightseeing with an Expert Local Guide

The fourth day of the 9-day Morocco itinerary is a cultural exploration with a local guide dedicated to visiting the old city of Fes, the cultural capital, which is one of the most complete medieval Islamic cities in the world, the oldest imperial city founded in the 9th century by Moulay Idriss II.

The Fes guided tour will start by driving to the second-oldest part of Fes called Fes Al-Jdid, which leads back to the 13th century from the Marinid dynasty's period, to see the famous golden gate of the royal palace, its architectural details, and walk through the ancient Jewish quarter.

Thereafter, we will drive to Borj for a panoramic view of the medina. Next, we will explore the pottery and ceramics department. Then it will be time to enter Bab Al-Fotoh into the Medina, explore the Andalusian district, enjoy the architecture of the mosques and madrasas (Quran schools), and make your way to the tanning, dyeing, and copper working communities.

Later, visit Nejjarine Fountain, Al-Qarawiyyine University (the oldest university in the world, built by a woman called Fatima Al-Fihriya on November 30, 859), Al-Bou Inania Madrasa, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II. End of the tour and return to your riad.

Overnight stay at Riad Salam Fes or similar

Day 5: Fes – Ifrane – Medilt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Sahara Desert

Today, we start early, heading towards Merzouga and the Sahara Desert. Along the journey, we will pass through Imozar town and Ifrane city, which is completely different from popular Moroccan architecture and recognized worldwide as the "Little Switzerland of Morocco" for its alpine style and European houses with sloping roofs. Elevated 1,630 meters above sea level, it is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, particularly the national park, which is worth a visit to meet the Barbary macaque monkeys that reside in Cedar Woods.

After lunch break in Medilt (the apple city), we make our way across the Tizi-Ntalghamt pass, which is 1,880 meters high above sea level, into the Ziz Valley, noted for its hidden oasis and palm groves.

Our Morocco desert trip continues to Erfoud, a city known for its fossil sites and factories. Upon arrival in Merzouga, you will go on a camel trek over the Erg Chebbi dunes to our Sahara Desert camp. The camel ride takes around 2 hours, including a pause at the top of a dune to watch the sunset, try sandboarding if desired, and take photos.

Overnight stay at Sahara Eden Camp or similar

Day 6: Merzouga Sahara Desert Adventure

The sixth day of our 9-day Morocco tour takes us throughout the desert's beauties. This adventurous trip begins with a visit to Morocco's native Berber nomads, who live simply in tents while raising goats and sheep. Next, we visit the well-known coal mines in the M'ifiss area, which were once operated under French influence.

As we go, we see the desert's most stunning scenic views, allowing you to take pleasure in the endless beauty. Our trip brings us to the Gnawa tribe, who are originally from Mali and Gabon and have subsequently settled in parts of Morocco, including Khamlia village (7 kilometers away from Merzouga town). We will be greeted by these people with a cup of tea and enjoy their music.

Before finishing our day and driving to your accommodation, we visit one of the renowned desert oases, which provide a welcome respite from the dry terrain.

Overnight stay at Sahara Eden Camp or similar

Day 7: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley

An incredible sunrise over Erg Chebbi dunes will greet you on the following day of our 9-day Morocco itinerary. You can return to Merzouga Village by camel rides or 4WD after breakfast and a shower in the desert camp. We will drive to Rissani, wander around the traditional market, and visit the fossil museum.

Our tour continues through many Berber and Arabic villages, including Mellab, Tinjdad, and Jourf, which is known for the wells of an old irrigation system called Khatarat. We will stop at the attraction to see it. Optional lunch will be in Tinjdad.

The next stop will be at Todra Valley and gorges, which are about 300 meters high. The power of water could make its own way across the rocks. This Gorge is known for climbing and hiking. Then continue to Dades Valley where you will have an overnight stay.

Overnight stay at Riad Paradise Dades or similar

Day 8: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Aït Ben Haddou – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

Today, our 9-day Morocco itinerary takes an easy drive to Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, passing through the beautiful Rose Valley and Ouarzazate. This journey takes you through several gorgeous Berber communities.

In Ouarzazate, you can visit the Atlas Studios. These studios maintain film sets and decorations from an array of films. You might also choose to snap a few memorable shots outside before continuing.

The legendary Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, located just 27 kilometers from Ouarzazate, is well-known for its role as Yunkai in Game of Thrones and its parts in countless other great films, such as Gladiator, Prince of Persia, Lawrence of Arabia, and Kingdom of Heaven.

Following a visit to the Kasbah and a delicious lunch, you travel to Marrakech via a journey across the magnificent High Atlas Mountains and the Tizi n'Tichka pass, which rises 2,260 meters above sea level. Take in the breathtaking views that open before you as you travel this lovely road. Your day comes to an end with your arrival in Marrakech, which is expected in the late afternoon.

Overnight stay at Riad Bahia Salam or similar

Day 9: Marrakech City Sightseeing with an Expert Local Guide – Departure

Take a guided tour around the charming city of Marrakech, exploring its fascinating sites with a local guide. Uncover hidden gems and famous monuments as you explore Marrakech's rich history and attractive culture. From the crowded souks of the Medina to the elegance of the Bahia Palace, which dates back to the 19th century. Feel the tranquility of Majorelle Garden, admire the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque, explore the Badai Palace, and experience Jemaa el-Fna Square.

Your local guide will bring the stories and traditions of Marrakech to life with their personal knowledge and customized insights, making an amazing experience that will leave you with unforgettable recollections of this wonderful place.

After a delightful traditional Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant, transfer to the airport. End of our 9-day Morocco itinerary.

What's Included

• Comfortable minivan/4WD with A/C
• Multilingual professional driver
• Expert local guide in Fes
• Expert local guide in Marrakech
• Guided tour of Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah
• 6 nights accommodation in comfortable riads/hotels
• 2 nights in a premium camp in the desert
• Daily breakfast
• 3 dinners (2 in the camp & 1 in Dades Valley)
• Camel trek across the Sahara Desert (one camel per person)
• 4x4 dune bashing in the Sahara Desert
• Sandboarding (self-use)
• All transportation and flexibility

What's Not Included

• Lunches
• Dinners in Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fes, and Marrakech
• Beverages
• Optional landmark entrance fees
• Tips and personal expenses
• Travel insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

What's included in the tour? Private transport, local guides, riads/hotels, breakfast, entrance fees, and camel trekking in the Sahara.

Best time to travel? March–May or September–November for comfortable temperatures and clear skies.

Is the tour family-friendly? Yes, it's suitable for families, children, and small groups.

Can I customize the tour? Yes! You can add extra days, skip destinations, or include optional activities like cooking classes or desert adventures.

How long are the drives?

• Casablanca → Chefchaouen: ~5 hours
• Fes → Merzouga: ~7 hours
• Dades → Marrakech: ~6–7 hours

Drives include scenic stops for photos.

Is Morocco safe for tourists? Yes. Traveling with LGBTQ Morocco Tours ensures safe transportation, guides, and accommodations.

What should I pack? Comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, layers for cool evenings, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and swimwear for hotels.

Do I need a visa? Most countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, and EU nations, do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. Check with your local Moroccan consulate.

Why Book with LGBTQ Morocco Tours?

LGBTQ Morocco Tours is a local travel company specializing in authentic 9-day Morocco tours and comprehensive Moroccan experiences. We offer:

• Local expertise with knowledgeable guides
• Carefully curated accommodations and authentic experiences
• Fair pricing with transparency
• Small group and private tour options
• 24/7 support throughout your journey
• Commitment to sustainable and ethical tourism
• Personalized service tailored to your interests

When you travel with LGBTQ Morocco Tours, you're supported by locals who know Morocco intimately and are passionate about sharing its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality with visitors.