On this extraordinary adventure through Morocco, discover the kingdom of blueberry skies and peach-hued dunes, lush oases, and the rugged Atlas Mountains. Catch the buzz of Marrakech's ancient medina and follow coastal roads to Essaouira. Explore age-old casbahs and UNESCO-listed wonders, including the Roman ruins at Volubilis, historic Rabat, and the 9th-century Medina of Fes. Spend the next four days on a scenic camel trek through the legendary Sahara, crossing majestic sand dunes, and sleeping in desert camps under star-kissed skies. Sip mint tea in traditional Berber villages and delight in warm Moroccan hospitality every step of the way.
On this extraordinary adventure through Morocco, discover the kingdom of blueberry skies and peach-hued dunes, lush oases, and the rugged Atlas Mountains. Catch the buzz of Marrakech's ancient medina and follow coastal roads to Essaouira. Explore age-old casbahs and UNESCO-listed wonders, including the Roman ruins at Volubilis, historic Rabat, and the 9th-century Medina of Fes. Spend the next four days on a scenic camel trek through the legendary Sahara, crossing majestic sand dunes, and sleeping in desert camps under star-kissed skies. Sip mint tea in traditional Berber villages and delight in warm Moroccan hospitality every step of the way.
Marvel at the mesmerizing old medinas of Marrakech and Fes, with their bustling ancient souks
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Trek the spectacular sand dunes of the Sahara on camelback, camping under star-strewn desert skies
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Hike through Berber villages to lush oases and follow trails past ancient kasbahs in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains
Welcome to Morocco! Arrive in Marrakech this morning and meet your MT Sobek representative at the airport. After transferring to the hotel, join your guide and group for a trip briefing and lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to the pretty Majorelle Garden and time to rest or explore the spellbinding city of Marrakech on your own. Tonight, savor a welcome dinner with your trip leader at a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Es Saadi Hotel
Transportation: 30-minute private van transfer
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Discover Mesmerizing Marrakech
Day 2
Head out and explore the "pearl of the south." Founded in the 11th century, Marrakech is one of Morocco's oldest cities, replete with gorgeous gardens and pink Moorish-style buildings. Wander the walled maze of its medina and enjoy the famed buzz of Djemma El Fna square, with its snake-charmers and fire-eaters. Have lunch in the medina and return to the hotel mid-afternoon, to either rest or explore on your own. In the evening, enjoy dinner paired with a musical performance at a traditional restaurant inside a 19th-century family home.
Accommodation: Es Saadi Hotel
Activity: 5.5 hours guided city touring
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey to Essaouira
Day 3
Rise for a drive to the lively port city of Essaouira with its beautiful 18th-century ramparts and traditional character. After lunch, take a tour of the "Windy City of Africa" and explore its atmospheric UNESCO-listed Medina of Essaouira (formerly Mogador). Wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with quaint artisan shops and check out the sweeping harbor views as you stroll the fortifications. Overnight in a charming hotel reminiscent of a grand Moroccan riad.
Accommodation: Hotel Le Medina
Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Follow the Coast Road to Rabat
Day 4
Head north on the coastal road to Safi, then continue on a cliffside stretch with beautiful sea views to Oualidia — the "oyster capital of Morocco." Enjoy lunch at a restaurant with views over the pretty lagoon. Next, enjoy a pleasant drive to Rabat. This afternoon, explore Rabat's iconic Hassan Tower with its picturesque stone pillars. Enjoy a night at a delightful family-run guest house in town.
Accommodation: Villa Mandarine Accommodation: Sofitel Rabat
Transportation: 6.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit Meknes & Travel to Fes
Day 5
After breakfast, set off on your journey to Meknes, an enchanting imperial city built by Sultan Moulay Ismaïl in the late 17th century. Marvel at the grand historic gateway of Bab Mansour and enjoy lunch before continuing to the UNESCO-listed Roman ruins at Volubilis. Arrive at your hotel in Fes by sunset.
Accommodation: Hotel Les Merinides
Transportation: 4-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore the Wonders of Fes
Day 6
Dive right into the medieval walled city of Fes, where thousands of craftsmen ply their trades. Observe the magnificent UNESCO-listed medina from scenic viewpoints and then visit the King's Palace, Fes el-Jedid with its old Jewish quarter, and Fes el-Bali (the oldest section). Here wander through some of the best souks in the world, including the henna, brass, and leather tanners' souks. Marvel at the fabulous architecture, taking in the great Kairaouine Mosque, the largest in Morocco. Break up the day with a hearty lunch right in the center of the action.
Accommodation: Hotel Les Merinides
Activity: Full day city touring
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey to Erfoud
Day 7
Rise early for a gorgeous drive to the oasis town of Erfoud. The journey takes you through cedar forests in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains up to the mountain town of Ifrane at 5,463 feet. Travel onward to your lunch stop in Midelt, situated between the Middle and High Atlas mountains, before ending the day in Erfoud - your gateway to the Sahara Desert.
Accommodation: Hotel Xaluca
Transportation: 7-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camel Trek to Erg Chebbi
Day 8
Start the day with a visit to a traditional village and then transfer by minibus to Derkaoua and Yasmine Auberge. From here, absorb the wonders of the desert as you travel on foot and by camel to the remote eastern side of Erg Chebbi — home to the largest and most spectacular dunes in Morocco. Along the way, you may occasionally pass nomads tending to their herds amidst the pumpkin-colored sea of sand. Return to camp for dinner and a night under the stars.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp – Morocco Camel Trek
Activity: 3-hours camel trek and walking
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ride Camels & Hike the Dunes of Bou Yerd
Day 9
Rise today for an exciting camel ride to Bou Yerd, where you'll climb an incredible 500-foot high dune for epic desert views! Enjoy a picnic lunch in a tent on the dunes before setting off on a dune walk, giving you a real sense of space amidst the vast ocean of sand. Camp on the dunes near Znigui tonight.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp – Morocco Camel Trek
Activity: 5.5-hours camel trek and walking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camel Trek to Erg Znigui
Day 10
Today's camel trek ventures south along the massive dunes of Erg Chebbi. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the dunes near Merdanit before continuing across a black plateau dotted with red dunes to Znigui. Return to the camp in the afternoon.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp – Morocco Camel Trek
Activity: 6-hours camel trek and walking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Last Camel Trek & Drive to Boumalne Dades
Day 11
Bid farewell to the desert early this morning and enjoy your last camel trek back to the road. Meet the minibus and journey on to Boumalne Dades, passing Rissani, Tineidad, and Tinerhir on the way. Stop for lunch in the old fortified Berber village of Khorbat and overnight at a comfortable hotel surrounded by mountains in Boumalne Dades.
Accommodation: Hotel Xaluca Dades
Activity: 1.5 hours camel trek and walking
Transportation: 5.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Skoura & Ait Benhaddou
Day 12
This morning, return to the Dades Valley for a delightful hike on the bank of the wadi, visiting an old Kasbah. After a picnic lunch, drive to the palm grove of Skoura, visit the old ksar (fortified village) of Amerhidil and then drive to Ait Ben Haddou and visit the village. Check into your riad-style hotel.
Accommodation: Riad Ksar Ighnda Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco
Activity: 2 hours hiking
Transportation: 3.5 hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return to Marrakech
Day 13
Rise today for your return drive to Marrakech, crossing the rugged Tichka Pass at 7,300 feet and then descending to the plain of Marrakech. Check into your luxury hotel and enjoy an afternoon at your leisure, either exploring the city or enjoy the hotel's amenities. Gather for a festive farewell dinner in the medina.
Accommodation: Es Saadi Hotel
Transportation: 4-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart Home
Day 14
Catch an early breakfast at the hotel, before driving to Marrakech Airport for your departure flight.
MT Sobek has been exploring Morocco since 1975 so you're in perfect hands on this unique journey.
Discover Morocco's ancient cities, cultural hubs and desert dunes with our knowledgeable and longtime guides who offer rich insights into the local culture and way of life.
Our camel trek traverses some of Morocco's most secluded and breathtaking desert scenery, complete with comfortable tents and impeccable service from our Saharan team.
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Abdellah A.
Abdellah was born in the Central High Atlas Mountains in the Amazigh (Berber) village of Ait Bougumez. Mountain adventure has always been Abdellah's true passion and he has over 20 years of experience in travel and tourism-formally earning his mountain guide degree certification in 2005. Abdellah is fluent in English, French, Amazigh, and Arabic, and enjoys sharing his wondrous country, including the local culture in the Atlas. He loves to organize meetings with local families and nomads for MT Sobek travelers.
Welcome to Morocco! Arrive in Marrakech this morning and meet your MT Sobek representative at the airport. After transferring to the hotel, join your guide and group for a trip briefing and lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to the pretty Majorelle Garden and time to rest or explore the spellbinding city of Marrakech on your own. Tonight, savor a welcome dinner with your trip leader at a local restaurant.
Head out and explore the "pearl of the south." Founded in the 11th century, Marrakech is one of Morocco\'s oldest cities, replete with gorgeous gardens and pink Moorish-style buildings. Wander the walled maze of its medina and enjoy the famed buzz of Djemma El Fna square, with its snake-charmers and fire-eaters. Have lunch in the medina and return to the hotel mid-afternoon, to either rest or explore on your own. In the evening, enjoy dinner paired with a musical performance at a traditional restaurant inside a 19th-century family home.
Rise for a drive to the lively port city of Essaouira with its beautiful 18th-century ramparts and traditional character. After lunch, take a tour of the "Windy City of Africa" and explore its atmospheric UNESCO-listed Medina of Essaouira (formerly Mogador). Wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with quaint artisan shops and check out the sweeping harbor views as you stroll the fortifications. Overnight in a charming hotel reminiscent of a grand Moroccan riad.
Head north on the coastal road to Safi, then continue on a cliffside stretch with beautiful sea views to Oualidia — the \"oyster capital of Morocco.\" Enjoy lunch at a restaurant with views over the pretty lagoon. Next, enjoy a pleasant drive to Rabat. This afternoon, explore Rabat\'s iconic Hassan Tower with its picturesque stone pillars. Enjoy a night at a delightful family-run guest house in town.
After breakfast, set off on your journey to Meknes, an enchanting imperial city built by Sultan Moulay Ismaïl in the late 17th century. Marvel at the grand historic gateway of Bab Mansour and enjoy lunch before continuing to the UNESCO-listed Roman ruins at Volubilis. Arrive at your hotel in Fes by sunset.
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Dive right into the medieval walled city of Fes, where thousands of craftsmen ply their trades. Observe the magnificent UNESCO-listed medina from scenic viewpoints and then visit the King\'s Palace, Fes el-Jedid with its old Jewish quarter, and Fes el-Bali (the oldest section). Here wander through some of the best souks in the world, including the henna, brass, and leather tanners\' souks. Marvel at the fabulous architecture, taking in the great Kairaouine Mosque, the largest in Morocco. Break up the day with a hearty lunch right in the center of the action.
Rise early for a gorgeous drive to the oasis town of Erfoud. The journey takes you through cedar forests in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains up to the mountain town of Ifrane at 5,463 feet. Travel onward to your lunch stop in Midelt, situated between the Middle and High Atlas mountains, before ending the day in Erfoud - your gateway to the Sahara Desert.
Start the day with a visit to a traditional village and then transfer by minibus to Derkaoua and Yasmine Auberge. From here, absorb the wonders of the desert as you travel on foot and by camel to the remote eastern side of Erg Chebbi — home to the largest and most spectacular dunes in Morocco. Along the way, you may occasionally pass nomads tending to their herds amidst the pumpkin-colored sea of sand. Return to camp for dinner and a night under the stars.
Rise today for an exciting camel ride to Bou Yerd, where you\'ll climb an incredible 500-foot high dune for epic desert views! Enjoy a picnic lunch in a tent on the dunes before setting off on a dune walk, giving you a real sense of space amidst the vast ocean of sand. Camp on the dunes near Znigui tonight.
Today\'s camel trek ventures south along the massive dunes of Erg Chebbi. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the dunes near Merdanit before continuing across a black plateau dotted with red dunes to Znigui. Return to the camp in the afternoon.
Bid farewell to the desert early this morning and enjoy your last camel trek back to the road. Meet the minibus and journey on to Boumalne Dades, passing Rissani, Tineidad, and Tinerhir on the way. Stop for lunch in the old fortified Berber village of Khorbat and overnight at a comfortable hotel surrounded by mountains in Boumalne Dades.
Rise today for your return drive to Marrakech, crossing the rugged Tichka Pass at 7,300 feet and then descending to the plain of Marrakech. Check into your luxury hotel and enjoy an afternoon at your leisure, either exploring the city or enjoy the hotel\'s amenities. Gather for a festive farewell dinner in the medina.
This morning, return to the Dades Valley for a delightful hike on the bank of the wadi, visiting an old Kasbah. After a picnic lunch, drive to the palm grove of Skoura, visit the old ksar (fortified village) of Amerhidil and then drive to Ait Ben Haddou and visit the village. Check into your riad-style hotel.
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[ActivityHighlight] => Touring cities and ancient sights includes walking up to 2-3 hours on uneven cobblestone streets and some dirt trails. In the Sahara, you may be riding a camel for up to five hours through sand dunes and on somewhat hilly terrain. No previous experience is required.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. Touring cities and ancient sights includes walking up to 2-3 hours on uneven cobblestone streets and some dirt trails. In the Sahara, you may be riding a camel for up to five hours through sand dunes and on somewhat hilly terrain. No previous experience is required. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
5.5 hours guided city touring
Day 6
Full day city touring
Day 8
3-hours camel trek and walking
Day 9
5.5-hours camel trek and walking
Day 10
6-hours camel trek and walking
Day 11
1.5 hours camel trek and walking
Day 12
2 hours hiking
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
Upscale city hotels, enchanting riad retreats, charming guesthouses, and MT Sobek mobile camps in the desert.
Overlooking the Atlas Mountains and the edge of the desert, this luxury hotel sits surrounded by gorgeous private gardens and striking views. Traditional rooms come equipped with a full array of modern comforts, including a minibar. The outdoor swimming pool is a great spot to refresh on a hot desert day, while the hammam and spa offer black soap scrubs and massages.
With a prime location in the verdant neighborhood of Hivernage, this luxury compound features a five-star hotel, palace accommodations and private villas. Steps from the walled old city and the Menara gardens, the dreamy hideaway offers no less than eight restaurants and bars, two swimming pools and the largest spa in Marrakech - all that paired with spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains.
Your Morocco Camel Trek experience includes three nights of traditional desert camping in canvas expedition-style safari tents with comfortable bedding (including real beds with sheets, comforters and pillows). Meals will be served in a Berber-style dining tent and refreshing bucket showers will be available most evenings, plus basins of warm water for the mornings.
Built with adobe bricks, this distinctive hotel is situated among palms and dunes at the door to the desert in Erfoud. Spacious en-suite rooms blend traditional decor with modern comforts, including air-conditioning and Wi-Fi. Guests sample Moroccan cuisine at the two in-house restaurants, unwind in the two pools, a spa and hammam, and play a round at a mini-golf course.
Perched atop a hillside overlooking the city, this 4-star hotel boasts a dramatic lobby and a rooftop restaurant that serves up traditional Moroccan fare. Guestrooms are beautifully designed with decorative carpets and contemporary furniture. What steals the show at this property are breathtaking views of the city, particularly during sunset.
Relax in comfort at this sumptuous beachside hotel, a stone's throw from the age-old citadel. With touches of a traditional Moroccan riad, 117 relaxing rooms and suites, and a luxury spa, this is a perfect place to unwind. Its comfortable, mosaic-adorned rooms are well-appointed with modern amenities and entirely furnished by Souiris craftsmen.
Villa Mandarine is a special find in the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage city of Rabat. With gorgeous lush gardens and a palm-fringed courtyard, this family -run hotel has an oasis feel — matched by the comfort of its spacious rooms. Enjoy an array of modern amenities during your stay and don't miss taking a dip in the hotel's beautiful pool.
With a beautiful location in the midst of the Atlas Mountains, the Hotel Xaluca Dades is a restful stop on your Moroccan adventure. Its 106 rooms are opulently designed with African materials and come well-appointed with modern amenities. Soothe your post-camel-trek body at the hammam or sunbathe on the natural stone solarium.
Experience the comforts of the Sofitel Rabat Hotel, a 5-star luxury hotel located in the heart of the capital city, Rabat. This palace-like property features a contemporary design with the best of Moroccan architecture in each of the guest rooms. Sofitel Rabat provides a spectacular guest experience, with a fitness center, mini golf, pool, and on-site restaurants. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, A/C, a coffee/tea station, and satellite TV with cable.
Weather
The climate is moderate and subtropical, cooled by breezes off the Atlantic and Mediterranean. In the interior the temperatures are more extreme, with cold winters and hot summers.
Feb
Mar
Oct
Nov
Dec
Casablanca
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Casablanca
65
50
67
53
76
62
70
55
66
51
Erg Chebbi
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Erg Chebbi
68
40
75
46
84
59
72
47
64
40
Marrakech
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Marrakech
70
46
75
51
83
59
74
51
68
45
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
An MT Sobek representative will meet you at Marrakech Menara Airport on the morning of Day 1 and transfer you to your hotel.
What's the best time of year for this adventure?
Because the desert can get quite warm in summer, the best time for a camel trek is from October to November and March. The weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.
What is the food like in Morocco?
Moroccan cuisines is often a fusion of berber, Arabic, Mediterranean, and French influences. You can expect a variety of dishes including both meat and vegetarian options like nicoise salad, squash, root vegetables, beef or lamb with prunes, chicken with preserved lemon and olives, paprika with french fries, and more.
What is the camel trek like?
The walking is fairly easy from 1 to 6 miles on a mixture of sandy terrain and hard-packed desert floor with vehicle support. The camels will walk very slowly and will be tied together. The seats will be padded with blankets and you will have have the chance to hop off to stretch your legs
Can I extend my trip?
Yes! We offer pre-set extensions in Marrakesh, Fes, Casablanca, and Essaouira. We can also help you book extra pre-post hotel nights.
Do I need a visa for Morocco?
Visas are not required for US citizens for visits lasting less than 90 days. You must have a valid passport with at least one blank page.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
What clothing is appropriate in Morocco?
Plan to dress conservatively. We suggest covering shoulders, knees, and wearing loose fitting clothing.
"Our wonderful guide made our adventure in Morocco unforgettable. In seeing his country through his eyes, we all got a glimpse of a beautiful, hospitable, fascinating country."
Janet R. MT Sobek Guest, Morocco Camels & Casbahs Hiking
"Phenomenal experience-a real adventure!"
Sharon S. MT Sobek Guest, Morocco Camels & Casbahs Hiking