Cross high Atlas passes, wander blue alleys and sleep in a private tent under Sahara stars. This 8-day loop from Casablanca pairs imperial cities with a camel-led desert night at Erg Chebbi.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the road as the city noise gives way to high desert wind—Casablanca’s modern boulevards shrink behind you while ochre kasbah walls and the Atlas Mountains march eastward. Over eight days the route stitches together imperial medinas, a 2,260 m mountain pass and the orange sweep of Erg Chebbi, where camels and stars share a silent horizon.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in reasonable health able to handle multiple full travel days, short walks, and a 1–1.5 hour camel trek.
Wildlife
History
The imperial cities—Marrakech, Fes, Meknes and Rabat—were centers of dynastic rule and scholarship; Fes hosts the Qarawiyyin, one of the oldest continuous universities in the world.
Conservation
The desert ecosystem is fragile—stick to marked camel paths and camps, avoid littering, and support local guides and cooperatives to help sustain traditional livelihoods.
Reserve your spot on the 8 Day Morocco Imperial Cities Tour from Casablanca today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Hydrate for long drives
Carry a 1–2 liter water bottle for daily driving and transfers; refill at hotels and restaurants along the route.
Layer for temperature swings
Days can be hot in the desert and cool in the mountains—bring a light insulating layer and a windbreaker.
Footwear for medinas and dunes
Sturdy walking shoes for cobbled medina lanes and closed-toe shoes for the camel ride and sandy dune walks.
Cash and small bills
ATMs are common in cities but limited in remote towns; carry Moroccan dirhams for tips, markets and small restaurants.
Daypack (20–30L)
Holds water, sun protection, camera and layers for medina walks and dune excursions.
Closed-toe walking shoes
Protects feet on cobbles, rocky viewpoints and during camel-mounted transfers.
Sun hat & sunscreen
Essential for exposed desert days and high-altitude sun at the Tizi n’Tichka pass.
summer
Light insulating layer
Useful for cold desert nights and chilly mornings in the Atlas Mountains.
winter