On this captivating 13-day trip, discover all aspects of Morocco, including the coastal city of Essaouira, the imperial city of Fez, and the Merzouga area of the Sahara Desert. Starting and ending in Marrakesh, explore the bustling square of Jemma El Fna and visit the impressive Hassan Mosque II in Casablanca, known for its towering structure. Take scenic hikes in the picturesque Rif Mountains and lose yourself in the enchanting blue-hued city of Chefchaouen. Along the way, savor the delectable cuisine and immerse yourself in the rich Moroccan culture.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Marrakesh | Marrakesh |
| Day 2 | Travel to Essaouira | Essaouira |
| Day 3 | Travel to Casablanca | Casablanca |
| Day 4 | Tour Casablanca and Travel to Rabat | Rabat |
| Day 5 | Travel to Tangier | Tangier |
| Day 6 | Travel to Chefchaouen | Chefchaouen |
| Day 7 | Tour Chefchaouen - Hiking in the Rif Mountains | Chefchaouen |
| Day 8 | Travel to Fes | Fes |
| Day 9 | Guided Tour of Fes | Fes |
| Day 10 | Travel to Merzouga in the Sahara Desert | Merzouga |
| Day 11 | Travel to Ouarzazate | Ouarzazate |
| Day 12 | Return to Marrakesh | Marrakesh |
| Day 13 | Depart Marrakesh |
Today’s itinerary begins with your arrival at Menara International Airport, where a private driver will warmly welcome you. You’ll be whisked away to your accommodations in Marrakesh. Once you settle in, take the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate, especially if you’ve had a long journey.
If you feel up to exploring, here are a few notable places to consider:
Bahia Palace: Step into the enchanting world of this 19th-century palace, adorned with exquisite gardens that exude tranquility and beauty.
Saadian Tombs: Marvel at the stunning architecture of these tombs, crafted with Italian Carrara marble and intricate honeycomb plasterwork, accented with touches of pure gold.
Koutoubia Mosque (from outside): Behold the grandeur of the largest mosque in town, dating back to the 12th century, and appreciate its impressive architectural features from the outside.
As night falls, head to the lively Jemaa El Fna square, where the vibrant pulse of Marrakesh comes alive. Immerse yourself in the captivating performances, music, and local culture that fill the evening air. Indulge in a delightful dinner while enjoying the welcoming ambiance and entertaining atmosphere of this vibrant hub.
Today’s adventure takes you to the charming town of Essaouira, renowned for its fantastic surfing beaches. The scenic route, spanning approximately three hours, guides you across vast rolling plains. As you approach the western coast of Morocco, a unique forest awaits you—the sole ecosystem where argan trees thrive, their fruits serving a multitude of purposes. A slight detour will bring you to a local women’s association that produces argan oil, celebrated for its exceptional health and beauty benefits. Keep an eye out for an extraordinary sight—a sight of goats nimbly perched on the branches of argan trees, contentedly grazing on the tree’s fruits.
Upon reaching Essaouira, take a leisurely stroll along the impressive seawalls, soaking in the coastal ambiance. Explore the captivating alleys and treasures of the Old Medina, or venture down to the bustling fishing harbor, where the lively atmosphere is ever-present. Essaouira proudly showcases its Jewish heritage, boasting one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Morocco. This district stands as a testament to coexistence and offers a captivating exploration opportunity.
Lunch and dinner are your chance to savor the local cuisine, with your driver happy to provide recommendations. Don’t miss out on the delectable seafood options, which come highly recommended! For tonight’s accommodation, you will be staying in a hotel or a traditional riad, immersing yourself in the authentic Moroccan hospitality.
Today, an early start awaits as you embark on your journey to Casablanca, following the picturesque coastal route and making brief stops at captivating seaside cities along the way. Your first destination is Safi, renowned for its incredible surfing beaches and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Continuing your coastal exploration, you will reach El Jadida. Here, you can immerse yourself in the haunting beauty of the Portuguese cistern—a remarkable underground structure. Take a leisurely walk along the ramparts, visit the Church of the Assumption, and indulge in a delightful lunch.
Next on the itinerary is Azemour, a town that has long been an inspiration for Moroccan artists. Despite its proximity to the cosmopolitan art market of Casablanca, Azemour maintains a traditional way of life. The 16th-century medina, nestled between the Oud Er-Rbia (Mother of Spring River) and the ocean, offers a glimpse into the past and provides abundant artistic inspiration.
Upon arrival in Casablanca, settle into your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure. Dinner can be savored at a restaurant of your choosing, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culinary scene and soak up the lively atmosphere of Casablanca.
Kickstart your day with a captivating tour of the Hassan II Mosque, an architectural masterpiece that will leave you in awe. This splendid mosque boasts one of the world’s tallest minarets, showcasing the finest examples of Moroccan architectural brilliance. Step inside to discover a lavishly adorned interior, featuring intricate woodwork, majestic marble elements, and beautifully carved stone details, including breathtaking guided ceilings. Notably, this mosque is open to the public for tours, offering a unique and memorable experience. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a place of your choosing.
In the afternoon, set off for Rabat, the capital city of Morocco and the residence of the Royal Family. Your first stop will be the remarkable Hassan Tower monument, a testament to the grandeur of the Almohad Dynasty. This iconic tower is part of an unfinished mosque and mausoleum complex dedicated to Mohamed V. Admire the towering red sandstone structure that stands at a height of 145 feet, surrounded by approximately 200 columns, remnants of a 12th-century project. The Hassan Tower stands as a fascinating historical site, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich architectural heritage.
For dinner, you have the freedom to explore the culinary delights of Rabat with recommendations from your driver. Indulge in the flavors of the city, savoring the diverse Moroccan cuisine.
After a satisfying breakfast, your day begins with a delightful journey along the Atlantic Coast towards Tangier. Along the way, you’ll make a stop in the picturesque coastal town of Asilah. This former Portuguese colony attracts numerous Moroccans during the summer season, drawn by its pristine beaches and charming ambiance. Take a moment to admire the Spanish-influenced architecture that adds a unique character to the town.
Continuing your adventure, you’ll visit the mesmerizing Hercules Caves. This extraordinary site is believed to have been partially shaped by the ancient Phoenicians and is steeped in myth, with legends suggesting that Hercules himself rested here. If you desire, you can opt for a guide who can provide additional insights and information about this intriguing location.
Finally, you’ll arrive in Tangier, the northernmost city of Morocco and a significant gateway to Europe, with ferries connecting to Spain. Tangier boasts a diverse cultural tapestry, influenced by the multitude of travelers passing through its gates. As night falls, you have the opportunity to explore the city at your own pace, immersing yourself in its vibrant atmosphere. Your driver will gladly recommend excellent dining options for you to experience the flavors of Tangier firsthand. Enjoy the evening, embracing the city’s unique charm and allure.
After a delightful breakfast, set off on your journey towards the captivating town of Chefchaouen. Along the way, you will pass through Tetouan, a true gem nestled at the foot of the majestic Rif Mountains, just a stone’s throw away from the sea. Tetouan’s ancient medina, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into the past, appearing untouched by time for several centuries. Take your time to explore this remarkable town at your own pace, with recommendations from your driver guiding your path. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a place of your choice.
Continuing your adventure, you will arrive in Chefchaouen, a visual delight adorned with mesmerizing blue walls, doors, windows, stairways, alleyways, and archways. Every corner of this town is a fusion of serene pastel sky blue and vibrant, captivating hues. Once you check in at your riad, you are free to explore the town at your leisure or simply unwind and relax. The heart of Chefchaouen is Outa el Hammam, the main square, where you can sit back and observe the world passing by. As you venture into the enchanting labyrinth of narrow, winding alleys, away from the more tourist-oriented areas, you will witness the authentic daily life of the town unfolding before your eyes.
Should you desire any recommendations or guidance, feel free to consult your driver. Dinner offers an opportunity to explore the local culinary scene, allowing you to choose a dining experience that suits your preferences. Enjoy the evening, immersing yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Chefchaouen.
Good morning! As the sun rises, marvel at the enchanting glow of Chefchaouen’s blue buildings, beautifully illuminated by the morning light. Consider waking up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the nearby Spanish mosque, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Since many shops don’t open until later in the morning, this is an ideal time to leisurely wander through the peaceful streets of this serene town.
Afterward, embark on a guided hike in the magnificent Rif Mountains. Immerse yourself in the wild beauty of nature as you traverse through cedar forests, surrounded by the lush greenery. Your journey will lead you to the awe-inspiring Cascades d’Akchour, a stunning waterfall that will leave you captivated. Along the way, you’ll encounter smaller waterfalls, and if weather permits, you can even take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. On the other side of the river, a steep path awaits, leading to God’s Bridge, a natural rock formation offering a mesmerizing sight. Alternatively, you can follow the canyon to admire the bridge from a different perspective, gazing up at its majestic presence.
Upon returning to Chefchaouen, venture into the medina, immersing yourself in the town’s remarkable beauty. Explore the vibrant market, where you can purchase fresh fruits to savor along your journey. Take a moment to people-watch, observing the locals adorned in brightly colored traditional attire as they go about their daily lives. Dinner offers a chance to indulge at your own pace, allowing you to choose from the town’s varied culinary offerings. Relax and unwind in the evening, preparing for the next exciting leg of your journey that awaits tomorrow.
Today marks the beginning of your journey from Chefchaouen to the captivating city of Fes. Before bidding farewell to Chefchaouen, take some time to further explore its mesmerizing medina. Rise early to witness the spectacular sunrise from the Spanish mosque, or enjoy a relaxed morning at a café in the vibrant Place Outa el-Hammam, observing the city come to life.
En route to Fes, a visit to Volubilis awaits—a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Morocco’s remarkably preserved Roman ruins. Take a refreshing break from the drive and delve into the vast complex, exploring grand merchant homes with intricate heating systems, temples, and beautifully preserved mosaics. If desired, local guides are usually available for hire to provide in-depth insights into this historical site. Your driver can assist you with arranging a guide, if you wish.
Next, continue your journey to Moulay Idriss, a town resembling a sitting camel when viewed from a distance. Founded in 789 CE by Moulay Idriss after seeking refuge from religious and tribal conflicts in Mecca, Moulay Idriss holds significant cultural importance as the birthplace of the Idrisid dynasty. It became Morocco’s first Islamic capital and is home to the country’s only round minaret. Enjoy lunch in this charming town or choose to dine at the next stop along the way.
The final stop before reaching Fes is the prosperous city of Meknes. With a smaller medina than Fes, you can leisurely explore without the hustle and bustle of aggressive shopkeepers. Your driver will guide you through the Ville Impériale area, where you can admire enchanting gardens, palaces, the impressive Bab al-Mansour gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Royal Stables. Keep an eye out for Roman columns, as many of the palaces were constructed using materials from Volubilis, lending an unexpected touch of ancient history.
As the day draws to a close, arrive in Fes, one of Morocco’s renowned imperial cities. Founded by Moulay Idriss I and designated as the capital of the Idrisid dynasty by his successor, Moulay Idriss II, Fes holds a rich historical and cultural heritage. Your accommodation in the Fes medina, or old city, awaits at a riad. Take the late afternoon and evening to immerse yourself in the ancient charm of the medina, a labyrinth of winding alleys cascading up both sides of a steep river valley. While exploring the Fes medina independently may lead to moments of getting lost, it can also be an exhilarating experience. Remember that paying attention to the direction of your ascent or descent can guide you toward the medina’s edge, where you can easily catch a taxi or gain a better sense of your destination.
Following breakfast, your knowledgeable tour guide will join you to embark on a captivating day of discovery within the enchanting Fes medina. As a UNESCO-protected site, this ancient medina boasts narrow alleys that can only be navigated by foot or donkey. Your guide, a Fes native, will unveil hidden tales and lead you to secluded corners, providing unique insights into daily life and showcasing the splendor of Fes’s madrasas (Islamic schools) and palaces. Allow your guide to introduce you to the wonders of Fes in a way that only a true local can. Don’t hesitate to seek recommendations from your guide for a delightful lunch experience.
Fes serves as a hub for Moroccan crafts and arts, and your journey will include encounters with skilled artisans who will share the history and significance of their trades. Explore tanneries where leather is meticulously crafted and witness the intricate techniques employed at mosaic workshops, showcasing traditional craftsmanship that continues to thrive.
In the afternoon, return to your riad to relax and unwind. Later, partake in a guided visit to a local hammam, a traditional public bath. Indulge in this serene and rejuvenating experience, a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration. Following your hammam session, the evening is yours to enjoy some personal leisure time, allowing for further relaxation and reflection.
Today calls for an early start as you embark on a remarkable adventure to reach the mesmerizing Sahara Desert!
Your journey begins by traversing the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through the town of Azrou and its magnificent cedar forests. Consider taking a short detour to the scenic Cèdre Gouraud Forest, where ancient cedar trees provide a sanctuary for troops of Barbary Macaque monkeys.
A stop for lunch awaits in Midelt, a city situated on a cold, high desert plateau. Despite the rugged terrain, Midelt is renowned as Morocco’s “Apple City” due to its thriving orchards. The continuous flow of the Moulouya River, the country’s third-longest river, ensures year-round water supply as it winds its way toward the Mediterranean Sea.
Continuing your journey, you’ll traverse a landscape characterized by steep mountain ranges, expansive valleys, and narrow canyon passes. Following the path of the Ziz Valley, a vital branch of the ancient Saharan Trade Route, you’ll encounter fortified houses, known as ksars, constructed by merchants to safeguard precious commodities such as gold, salt, and spices.
As you venture through the awe-inspiring Ziz Gorge, you’ll begin to witness early glimpses of Saharan sand dunes. These wind-sculpted dunes are in constant motion, sometimes encroaching upon farms, roads, and buildings. Along the way, observe nomadic shepherds and tents dotting the area, immersing yourself in the unique culture.
The bustling market town of Erfoud awaits, renowned for its date fruits and fossil discoveries. Take a moment to appreciate hillside mines where large fossil rocks are unearthed. At a local artisan collective, you can gain insights into the variety of fossils found in the region and witness the fascinating process of transforming fossil-rich rock into exquisite products, both large and small. As you approach Merzouga, the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi will come into view. Stretching across approximately 22 miles, these vast sand dunes soar to heights of over 650 feet.
In the vicinity of Merzouga, enjoy a short break before embarking on your desert camp excursion. If you choose to ride a camel, you’ll arrive at the camp just before sunset. Ascend the dunes and witness the breathtaking spectacle of the sun casting its warm hues upon the sand, creating a truly magical sunset.
Return to the camp for a delightful dinner accompanied by traditional Berber music, and gather around the comforting fire. In this remote region with minimal light pollution, take a moment to marvel at the celestial wonders of the star-studded night sky before retiring to your accommodations for a restful night’s sleep.
If you rise early, you’ll have the opportunity to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the sand dunes. Enjoy breakfast at your desert camp before making your way back to Merzouga. Once there, meet your driver and embark on the long drive to Ouarzazate. Consider stopping in Rissani before venturing across the desert plains. Rissani is a fantastic place to explore a traditional market, particularly on market days when you can witness the bustling activity of animal trading. Don’t forget to check out the intriguing “donkey parking lot” while you’re in the area.
Today’s journey promises awe-inspiring landscapes as you traverse a remote and vast land bordering the Sahara. Prepare to be captivated by the panoramic views of desert plains, towering mountains, and expansive plateaus. This route offers a genuine sense of wilderness, evoking a profound sense of grandeur. Keep an eye out for the unique Acacia forests, their umbrella-shaped silhouettes adapted to thrive in this harsh environment. Along the way, take the opportunity to visit the local fossil workshops in the town of Alnif.
Continuing your journey, you’ll arrive at the Dadès Gorge, where nature’s artistry is showcased through rusty red and mauve-striped mountains. Below lies a lush oasis, irrigated and adorned with fig, almond, and olive orchards, interspersed with ancient kasbahs and Berber villages. Consult your driver for lunch options in the nearby town of Boumalne Dadès.
Your day concludes in Ouarzazate, a town renowned for its significant role in the Moroccan film industry. However, Ouarzazate offers more than just cinematic connections. Consider taking a guided tour of Aït Benhaddou, the most famous Kasbah in Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Believed to date back to the 11th century, this ancient ksar held a strategic position along the trans-Saharan trade route connecting Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, and the southern desert. If you arrive in Ouarzazate late in the day, you can proceed directly to your accommodations and visit Aït Benhaddou the following morning.
Today, you’ll traverse the magnificent High Atlas Mountains that separate Ouarzazate from Marrakesh. If you didn’t have the opportunity to visit Aït Benhaddou yesterday or would like to experience it in the morning light, you can explore the historic ksar before departing from Ouarzazate.
As you ascend the arid desert slopes of the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas. Take a moment to admire the panoramic views of the mountain range and the vast plains of Marrakesh stretching below. Keep an eye out for Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, which stands proudly to the west. As you descend the north-facing slopes of the High Atlas, you’ll witness a remarkable transformation in climate and landscape. Cross deep river valleys adorned with abundant almond and walnut orchards. Soon, the serenity of the desert and mountains will give way to the vibrant energy of Marrakesh.
Upon reaching Marrakesh, you can spend the rest of the afternoon at a leisurely pace. If you haven’t yet visited the medina’s main square, Jemaa el Fna, be sure to make time for it on your last night. The square comes alive with musicians, performers, snake charmers, games, and enticing food stalls. Surrounding the square, you’ll find numerous cafés where you can savor a farewell meal while immersing yourself in the captivating entertainment. Take in the lively atmosphere as you bid farewell to Marrakesh in style.
Today marks the end of your Moroccan adventure as you prepare to depart from Marrakesh Menara International Airport. Depending on your flight schedule, you may need to head to the airport directly after breakfast, or you may have some time to further explore the city. Take this opportunity to soak in the last moments of the vibrant Moroccan culture, reminisce about your desert experiences, and appreciate the skilled artisans you encountered along the way.
As you bid farewell to Morocco, carry with you the treasured memories and experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime. The lively atmosphere, the warmth of the people, and the captivating landscapes will forever hold a special place in your heart. Until your next adventure, safe travels and may your journey home be filled with joy and reflection.
