Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with our 10 Days Desert Tour Essaouira, a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes. This meticulously designed itinerary is your gateway to exploring Morocco’s vibrant cities, serene desert landscapes, and centuries-old traditions. Get ready for an adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish forever.
- Duration: 10 days/9 nights
- Start: Essaouira
- End: Essaouira
- Tour Style: Private
Highlights of the 10 days desert tour Essaouira
- Explore Essaouira's vibrant medina and historic ramparts.
- Wander the labyrinth of Marrakech’s old medina.
- Visit iconic cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Fez.
- Experience the serene beauty of the Atlas Mountains.
- Ride camels and camp under the stars in the Sahara desert.
- Discover traditional Berber villages, Roman ruins, and UNESCO heritage sites.
- Relish authentic Moroccan cuisine throughout your journey.
Why private 10 days desert tour Essaouira
This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and cultural immersion. With a balanced itinerary, expert guides, and carefully selected highlights, you’ll enjoy the best of Morocco without missing any hidden gems. Whether it’s your first time in Morocco or a return visit, this tour offers a unique perspective on the country’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
itinerary
Our 10 Days Desert Tour Essaouira begins in the coastal city of Essaouira and takes you across Morocco’s most captivating destinations. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the golden dunes of Merzouga, you’ll discover the essence of Moroccan culture, history, and natural beauty. This tour promises an authentic Moroccan experience with expertly curated activities and comfortable accommodations.
Day 1: Essaouira ➔ Marrakech
Your journey begins in the coastal city of Essaouira, where you’ll explore the Skala du Port, the vibrant wood souks, and the historical ramparts that tell tales of its Portuguese past. After a delicious seafood lunch by the port, you’ll travel through the serene countryside towards Marrakech. Once in Marrakech, settle into your riad and enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner to end the day.
Travel distance: 175 KM
Places to see: Skala du Port, Medina of Essaouira, Chichaoua
Highlights: Essaouira Medina, ramparts, Thuya wood crafts
Day 2: Marrakech ➔ Casablanca
After breakfast, your journey continues to Casablanca, Morocco’s bustling economic hub. Upon arrival, visit the exterior of the stunning Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. You’ll have free time to explore Casablanca’s modern streets and vibrant markets. Relax in your comfortable riad in the evening.
Travel distance: 240 KM
Places to see: Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca Corniche
Highlights: Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca skyline, local markets
Day 3: Casablanca ➔ Rabat ➔ Meknes ➔ Volubilis ➔ Fez
Leaving Casablanca, head to Rabat to visit the Royal Palace and Hassan Tower. Continue to Meknes to explore the El Hedim Square and Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. The journey proceeds to Volubilis, where you’ll wander through well-preserved Roman ruins before reaching Fez for a restful evening.
Travel distance: 295 KM
Places to see: Hassan Tower, Volubilis, El Hedim Square
Highlights: Roman ruins, Imperial cities, Moroccan history
Day 4: Fez
Spend the day exploring the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco. Your guide will take you through the ancient Medina, where narrow streets are lined with vibrant souks, and the University of al-Karaouine, the oldest university in the world. Visit the Chouara Tannery and admire traditional craftsmanship at its best.
Travel distance: Minimal (city exploration)
Places to see: Medina of Fez, University of al-Karaouine, Chouara Tannery
Highlights: Fez Medina, ancient crafts, spiritual heritage
Day 5: Fez ➔ Ifrane ➔ Cedar Forest ➔ Midelt ➔ Merzouga
Journey through the picturesque Middle Atlas, stopping at Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its alpine charm. Continue to the Cedar Forest to encounter the Barbary apes before heading to Midelt for lunch. The day concludes with your arrival in Merzouga, where the Sahara Desert awaits.
Travel distance: 467 KM
Places to see: Ifrane, Cedar Forest, Ziz Valley
Highlights: Middle Atlas, Barbary apes, desert landscapes
Day 6: Merzouga ➔ Erg Chebbi
Spend the day exploring the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes. Visit the village of Khamlia to enjoy traditional Gnawa music and explore the nearby oases. As the sun sets, embark on a camel trek to your desert camp, where you’ll dine under the stars and immerse yourself in the serenity of the Sahara.
Travel distance: Minimal (desert exploration)
Places to see: Erg Chebbi dunes, Khamlia, desert camp
Highlights: Camel trek, stargazing, desert camp
Day 7: Merzouga ➔ Todgha Gorges ➔ Dades Valley
After a sunrise breakfast in the desert, travel to the dramatic Todgha Gorges, a paradise for nature lovers. Continue to the Dades Valley, famous for its striking rock formations and lush landscapes. Relax in your hotel and savor a traditional dinner to end the day.
Travel distance: 315 KM
Places to see: Todgha Gorges, Dades Valley, Rose Valley
Highlights: Todgha cliffs, scenic valleys, rose products
Day 8: Dades ➔ Ouarzazate ➔ Ait Ben Haddou ➔ Marrakech
The day begins with a visit to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Tour the Atlas Film Studios and the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Conclude the day’s journey by crossing the High Atlas Mountains back to Marrakech.
Travel distance: 326 KM
Places to see: Atlas Studios, Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, Tizi Ntichka
Highlights: Film studios, Ait Ben Haddou, mountain landscapes
Day 9: Marrakech
Spend the day exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech. Visit the Majorelle Garden, Saadian Tombs, and the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Discover the magic of Marrakech’s Medina and its rich history as the day unfolds.
Travel distance: Minimal (city exploration)
Places to see: Majorelle Garden, Saadian Tombs, Medina of Marrakech
Highlights: Majorelle Garden, Medina charm, historical sites
Day 10: Marrakech ➔ Essaouira
Bid farewell to Marrakech and journey back to Essaouira, stopping at a women’s cooperative producing Argan oil. Once in Essaouira, enjoy the relaxed coastal atmosphere before your tour concludes.
Travel distance: 175 KM
Places to see: Women’s Argan Cooperative, Essaouira Beach
Highlights: Coastal views, Argan oil, relaxing finale
Gallery
Inclusive and Exclusive of the tour
Inclusive
- Pick-up at your Hotel or Riad.
- Comfortable, air-conditioned 4x4, van/minibus.
- Driver/guide speaking English
- Exciting camel trekking
- Experience through the Erg Chebbi dunes
- 9 Dinners
- 9 Breakfasts
Exclusive
- Lunches
- Beverages
- Entrance fees, when needed
- Tips (optional)
- Anything not in inclusive
Price of 10 days desert tour Essaouira
Map of the tour
Book this tour now
Know Before You Go
When making your reservation, please be sure to communicate any dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free preferences. Rest assured, we are committed to accommodating your specific meal preferences during your trip to ensure an enjoyable dining experience.
Throughout the desert tour, your guide will recommend lunch stops at local restaurants offering fresh, healthy options. However, if you have a particular restaurant in mind, feel free to inform your guide, and they will gladly assist in making it part of your journey.
For those seeking an added thrill, consider exciting activities like quad biking or buggy driving in the stunning Erg Chebbi Dunes. If you’re interested in these exhilarating desert experiences, just let your guide know, and they’ll help arrange the perfect adventure to enhance your trip.
To make the most of your desert experience, consider upgrading to our 5-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga. This extended itinerary includes an extra night in Dades Gorges and another night in Ouarzazate, allowing you more time to explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Morocco. This tour breaks up the longer drive and offers a more relaxed pace, making it an ideal choice for those looking to fully experience the journey.
If you’re limited on time, a 4-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga might be a great option. This 4-day desert tour offers a perfect balance of exploration and adventure, giving you ample time to explore the Merzouga desert and its surroundings.
For those with only three days to spare, our 3-day desert tour from Marrakech provides a faster yet fulfilling experience. Please note, however, that this option includes just one night in the desert, ideal for travelers with limited time who want to experience Morocco’s desert landscapes without the extended driving.
If you have an even tighter schedule, the 2-day tour from Marrakech to Merzouga is an excellent choice. Although shorter, it still provides a glimpse into the magic of the desert, with the highlights of Merzouga and the Sahara dunes.
No matter your choice, our goal is to provide you with an unforgettable desert adventure tailored to your interests and schedule.
Food Alergies
Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions you may have. We provide helpful information for vegans and vegetarians and will do our utmost to accommodate your needs, ensuring this information is communicated to your driver and hotels.
However, please be aware of the following considerations: We cannot guarantee the absence of allergen traces in containers, bags, or kitchens, as Morocco’s food standards may differ from those in your country. If any member of your tour has severe allergies, it is advisable to bring appropriate food items. Additionally, we cannot control potential insect encounters.
We recommend exercising extra caution in any uncertain situations.
FaQ
What type of vehicles are used for the trip ?
What a great inquiry! “Private desert trips” require comfortable transportation. For groups bigger than 8, we employ Land Cruiser TXs, Ford 8-seater vans, Mercedes Bens Sprinter minibuses, and a variety of other comfortable vehicles.What a great inquiry! “Private desert trips” require comfortable transportation. For groups bigger than 8, we employ Land Cruiser TXs, Ford 8-seater vans, Mercedes Bens Sprinter minibuses, and a variety of other comfortable vehicles.
How far in advance should we book this tour ?
Making your vacation plans as soon as you can is encouraged because the early bird gets the worm.
How to pay for the tour ?
Initially, we ask that a small deposit be given to our account via PayPal during the booking procedure. Second, the balance must be paid in cash and should be handed to our driver/guide on the first day of the tour in euros, dollars, or the equivalent in dirhams.
How do i take my luggage to the camp?
At the start of your camel trek, a 4×4 vehicle will convey your luggage. As a result, your bags will be there when you arrive at the camp.
Is it possible to have vegetarian food or vegan food?
Serving vegan or vegetarian food is possible. On the first day of your trip, please email me or let your driver/guide know as soon as you can.
I don’t want to ride camels to the camp, how i do I reach the camp?
If you don’t want to ride a camel, we can transport you to the camp in a 4 × 4 vehicle.
