Discover a captivating 8-day itinerary, starting in Marrakech, that seamlessly blends culture, adventure, and relaxation. Meander through Marrakech’s souks and fondouks, explore intricate mosques and madrasas, and savor the liveliness of Jemaa el-Fna Square. Traverse the High Atlas mountains and dedicate a few days to unraveling the mysteries of Morocco’s desert, where fortified villages and ancient caravan routes lead to hidden oases. Finally, wrap up your journey in the picturesque seaside town of Essaouira.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1-2 | Exploring the Red City of Marrakech | Marrakech |
| Day 3 | Over the High Atlas to Ouarzazate | Ouarzazate |
| Day 4 | Zagora and camping in the Sahara | Zagora |
| Day 5 | Aït Benhaddou | Aït Benhaddou |
| Day 6 | Return to Marrakech | Marrakech |
| Day 7 | Marrakech to Essaouira | Essaouira |
| Day 8 | Return to Marrakech; Departure |
Welcome to the captivating city of Marrakech! Known as the “Red City” for its ancient red sandstone walls and buildings, Marrakech boasts a rich history as a prominent economic center. Rooted in Berber heritage rather than Arab origins, it once served as a vital trading hub for tribes residing in the Atlas Mountains. Begin your journey by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech’s bustling Jemaa el-Fna Square, with the markets sprawling to the north, the majestic Koutoubia Mosque and Gardens to the west, and the kasbah area housing remarkable sites such as the Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, and El Badi Palace to the south. In the Ville Nouvelle district, discover the enchanting Majorelle Gardens.
To embark on a unique exploration of the medina, the old quarter, hop aboard a calèche, a traditional horse-drawn carriage, and soak in the surroundings. Notice the fondouks, medieval inns that once offered shelter and supplies to merchants and travelers. Today, some of these fondouks have been transformed into residences, expansive shopping areas, and workshops that invite exploration. Make your way to the magnificent Koutoubia Mosque and find solace from the heat in its gardens adorned with fountains and palm trees. Although non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque itself, it’s worth admiring its 12th-century foundations and minaret.
As the evening unfolds, Jemaa el-Fna Square springs to life with the captivating sounds of musicians and storytellers, the mesmerizing performances of acrobats and dancers, and even the presence of snake charmers. Stroll through the rows of food stalls offering an array of delectable options, from satisfying meals to refreshing fruit drinks, dried dates, and delightful snacks. Indulge in a quick bite or, for a more relaxed experience, seek out one of the charming cafes perched above the square, where you can savor a delicious meal while delighting in the vibrant spectacle below.
Begin your day by immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Moroccan architecture and craftsmanship at the Ben Youssef Madrasa. Join your knowledgeable guide for a captivating half-day tour, where you’ll marvel at the intricate details of this 16th-century Islamic school. Admire the remarkable examples of traditional Moroccan artistry, from the delicately carved cedar and sculpted plaster to the captivating arabesques, Islamic calligraphy, and vibrant zellij mosaic tilework. Explore the former dormitories that once housed up to 800 students and step inside the prayer hall, absorbing the serene ambiance.
Next, venture into the enchanting world of the Dar Di Said Museum, also known as the Museum of Moroccan Arts. Delight in the captivating displays of clothing, antiques, jewelry, and the exquisitely carved Hispano-Moorish decorations. Let your senses come alive as you navigate the intricate labyrinth of Marrakech’s souks, hidden behind unassuming restaurants and shops. Explore Souk el Attarin, Souk Chouari, and Souk Smata, where you’ll encounter a plethora of aromatic spices, intricate woodwork, and traditional Moroccan slippers known as babouche. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the mesmerizing Souk des Teinturiers, where you can witness the fascinating process of dyeing leather hides and fabrics firsthand.
Leave the bustling city behind as you embark on an eastward adventure towards the desert, ascending the majestic High Atlas mountains. Keep an eye out for Mount Toubkal, the highest peak standing tall at 13,671 feet (4,167 m). As you traverse this scenic route, you’ll pass by numerous Berber villages, characterized by their charming traditional mud-brick buildings. Take a break in Taddert for a delightful lunch and seize the opportunity to visit the local Argan Oil Cooperative. Discover the fascinating process employed by local women as they extract the precious argan oil, which finds application in the realms of health, food, and cosmetics.
Continue your journey, following the winding road towards the renowned desert hub of Ouarzazate. Renowned for its flourishing movie industry, you’ll have the chance to explore one of the two movie studios and envision the remarkable landscapes of the nearby regions that have served as settings for numerous blockbuster films. From Gladiator and Black Hawk Down to Prometheus, American Sniper, and Game of Thrones, this cinematic haven has left its mark on the silver screen. To delve deeper into the history and art of filmmaking in the area, make sure to visit the Musée du Cinema, where you can gain insights into the fascinating world of cinema.
Begin your day by meeting your driver as you continue your journey eastward towards the captivating city of Zagora. Traverse the majestic Jebel Sarhro mountains, venturing through the Tizi n’Tiniffifft pass. Along the way, pass through the bustling service center of Agdz before entering the picturesque Draa River valley. This fertile valley, nurtured by the waters of the Draa River, provides rich soil for intensive farming. Take note of the abundant date palm groves that adorn the landscape and make a pit stop at one of the inviting stalls to savor a delightful road trip snack. Follow the course of the Draa River, journeying southward through dense clusters of palm trees until you reach Zagora.
Explore the charming city of Zagora, with its wide central avenue and impressive buildings that showcase the city’s prosperity, largely attributed to its successful date cultivation. Afterward, make your way to your accommodation located just outside the city. Here, you’ll have the exciting option to switch gears and embark on a personal camel ride, venturing into the vast desert towards your campsite. Traverse the ever-shifting sand dunes that run alongside towering rocky mountains, creating a mesmerizing contrast. As the sun begins to set, revel in its magical glow while enjoying your evening meal. Gather around the warm campfire to be serenaded by traditional drumming and singing, immersing yourself in the rich cultural experience. Retreat to your comfortable Bedouin-style tent and fall asleep under a blanket of twinkling stars, embracing the tranquility of the desert night.
Begin your day with an early rise to witness the breathtaking desert sunrise, followed by a camel ride back to meet your transfer. Take a moment to visit the nearby town of Tamegroute, a hidden gem on the desert’s edge, with its houses blending harmoniously with the sand-colored landscape. Explore the Islamic Library, an extraordinary repository of knowledge housing nearly 50,000 volumes gathered from various corners of the world. Once considered the wealthiest library in North Africa, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s intellectual heritage. Delve into the art of pottery by visiting one of the oldest family-run pottery workshops, where you’ll discover the secret behind Tamegroute’s signature green pottery.
Return to Ouarzazate and journey northward to the renowned Aït Benhaddou Kasbah, a protected UNESCO World Heritage site. As the most celebrated kasbah in Morocco, it held a significant position along the trans-Saharan trade route connecting Marrakech, Ouarzazate, and the southern desert. Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of the old town, spending the night within its ancient walls. Wander through the quiet alleys once the day-crowds have dispersed, relishing in the serenity. For a small fee, explore some of the kasbahs and ascend to the rooftops for picturesque views of the surrounding ksours, individual kasbahs, and the picturesque Ouarzazate Valley.
Embrace the tranquility of the early morning as you explore the narrow passageways and alleys of the ancient kasbah, Aït Benhaddou, before the bustling crowds arrive. Bid farewell to this remarkable 11th-century fortified city and embark on your return journey to Marrakech. Traverse once more across the magnificent High Atlas mountains, passing through the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass. As you descend the slopes of the High Atlas, you’ll witness a striking transformation in climate and landscape. After the serene beauty of the mountains and desert, you’ll soon find yourself immersed in the vibrant energy of lively Marrakech.
Upon arrival, you may choose to spend the afternoon at a leisurely pace. Indulge in a visit to Jemaa el-Fna, where you can savor delicious bites from the tempting array of food stalls. Take a leisurely evening stroll and make your way to admire the beautifully illuminated Koutoubia Mosque, a captivating sight. Finally, retreat to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest, reflecting on the incredible experiences of your journey so far.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast before embarking on a westward journey towards the enchanting coastal town of Essaouira. As you make your way, traverse vast rolling plains and pass through captivating argan forests, unique to this region. Keep an eye out for a delightful sight: goats perched in trees, skillfully grazing on the argan fruit, a fascinating phenomenon observed when grass pastures are scarce. Along the route, you’ll have the opportunity to visit an Argan Oil Cooperative and witness the meticulous process of extracting this precious and highly-valued oil from the nuts.
Upon arrival in Essaouira, a tranquil and laid-back port city that offers a pleasant contrast to the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech, the rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. Take a stroll along the Skala de la Kasbah, the historic seafront ramparts built in the 18th century. Admire the European-inspired design and discover the old brass cannons that adorn the walls, providing a captivating vantage point overlooking the vast Atlantic Ocean. Immerse yourself in the UNESCO-protected medina, with its charming maze of narrow streets and vibrant markets. Make your way to the windswept beach, where you can relish in the refreshing ocean breeze. For fans of music legend Jimi Hendrix, a short taxi ride to Diabat, located at the end of Essaouira’s beach, is a must-visit, as it is said to be a place where he once found inspiration. As the day comes to a close, treat yourself to a delectable meal of freshly caught seafood, savoring the flavors of the ocean in this coastal paradise.
Embrace the morning in Essaouira, also known as the “Windy City” due to its invigorating Alizée trade winds that grace its crescent beach, making it a sought-after destination for kiteboarding enthusiasts. Spend the morning admiring the impressive skills of windsurfers and kiteboarders, or for the adventurous souls, consider taking a lesson to experience the thrill firsthand. Bid farewell to the captivating coastal town and begin your journey back to Marrakech.
Upon returning to Marrakech, seize the opportunity to explore the fascinating kasbah area south of Jemaa el-Fna, depending on your flight schedule. Marvel at the Saadian Tombs, a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship of the past, dating back over 500 years. Wander through the sunken gardens of the El Badi Palace, a magnificent 17th-century structure. Traverse the historic Mellah, the Jewish quarter, and make your way to the splendid Bahia Palace, a stunning example of 19th-century architecture. Discover the Almoravid Koubba, the only remaining monument from the Almoravid dynasty, dating back to the 12th century. Conclude your exploration with a visit to the Marrakech Museum, housed within the magnificent Dar Mnebbi Palace from the 19th century, and immerse yourself in a collection of modern and traditional Berber and Moroccan art.
As your unforgettable journey nears its end, take a moment to reflect on the rich cultural experiences and memories you have gathered along the way. Enjoy the vibrant blend of modernity and tradition that Marrakech offers before bidding a fond farewell to this captivating city.
