Experience the exhilarating essence of Morocco on a thrilling 6-day journey, where you’ll uncover the gems of Fes, the enchanting desert landscapes, and the vibrant city of Marrakech. Embark on an adventure commencing in the medieval city of Fes, gradually venturing southward. Trek through the captivating Middle Atlas mountain range, immersing yourself in the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert, before traversing the majestic High Atlas mountains and concluding your expedition in the bustling metropolis of Marrakech.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive; Fes: Exploring the Imperial City and medieval Medina | Fes |
| Day 2 | Middle Atlas: Erfoud, Merzouga and the Sahara | Merzouga |
| Day 3 | Desert adventures around Merzouga: Rissani market and Todra Gorge | Tinghir |
| Day 4 | Dades Valley, Ouarzazate, and Aït Benhaddou Kasbah | Aït Benhaddou |
| Day 5 | Tizi n'Tichka Pass over the High Atlas mountains to Marrakech | Marrakech |
| Day 6 | Marrakech: Exploring the Red City; Depart |
Welcome to Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city, boasting a magnificent medina that stands as one of the Arab world’s most intact and largest pedestrian zones. Step back in time as you explore its centuries-old architecture. With three distinct areas to discover – Fes el Bali, Fes el Jdid, and Ville Nouvelle with its French influence – embark on a guided half-day adventure through the labyrinthine alleyways.
Begin your journey at Bab Boujeloud gate, marveling at its grandeur. Step into a shop near the Chouara Tannery, where you can admire exquisite leather goods and witness the ancient dyeing process that has endured for centuries. Pay a visit to Al-Qarawiyyin University, the world’s oldest operating university, and catch a glimpse of the stunning interior of its mosque (non-Muslims may not enter). Delight in the intricate zellij (mosaic tilework) at Al Attarine Madrasa. Take a detour to Fes el Jdid, exploring the Mellah (Jewish quarter) and its cemetery. If time permits, end the day by witnessing a breathtaking sunset from the Merenid Tombs’ vantage point.
Embark on an early morning adventure as you head south towards Merzouga. Ascend to an impressive altitude of 7,146 feet (2,178 m) through the enchanting Col du Zad pass, meandering through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas mountains. Keep an eye out for the charming Barbary macaque monkeys along the way. Pause for a delightful lunch in Midelt, known as the ‘apple city,’ where you can savor the beauty of the nearby Moulouya River. Traverse the captivating Tizi n’Talremt pass, immersing yourself in the breathtaking scenery of the Ziz Valley, renowned for its hidden oases and clusters of palm trees. As you journey, catch glimpses of the fortified ksars, protecting valuable treasures such as gold, salt, and spices.
Continue your expedition to Erfoud, famous for its date festival and fossil mining. Explore a local collective, gaining insights into the fascinating process and connecting with talented artisans. Proceed to Erg Chebbi, an expansive expanse of sand dunes stretching across 13.5 square miles (35 square km). These majestic dunes are in constant motion, shifting and traveling with the whims of the wind. Upon reaching Merzouga, switch gears and embark on a camel ride through the dunes, leading you to a meticulously prepared camp. Scale a nearby sand dune to witness a breathtaking sunset before returning to the camp, where you’ll indulge in a delectable dinner and unwind by the comforting glow of a campfire.
Rise with the sun and witness a mesmerizing desert sunrise before embarking on exhilarating sandboarding activities. Choose between an exploration of Erg Chebbi (sand dunes) or an ATV tour, immersing yourself in the captivating desert landscape. Venture to the nearby Saharan village of Khemliya, where you’ll be enchanted by traditional drumming music and dance performances. Take a leisurely stroll through the village, soaking in its authentic atmosphere.
Bid farewell to the dunes as you make your way to Rissani, a bustling market town, and enter through its magnificent gate. Delight in the vibrant livestock auction and be sure to seek out the intriguing “donkey parking lot” to engage your senses. Journey onwards to Tinerhir, a desert town offering breathtaking views of neighboring towns nestled along a vast 30-mile (48 km) river oasis adorned with palm trees. Finally, arrive at your ultimate destination for the day: Todra Gorge. Towering nearly 1,000 feet (305 m) high, this awe-inspiring gorge, carved by the Todra River in red limestone, invites you to take a leisurely stroll through its enchanting surroundings. Unwind and refresh yourself in the cool waters of the shallow river below.
Embark on a scenic journey along the captivating Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, leading you to the renowned Aït Benhaddou kasbah. Traverse the picturesque Dades Valley and Boumalne Dades, immersing yourself in their natural beauty. Pause in Kela’a M’gouna to admire the enchanting rose bushes that dot the landscape. Visit a rose collective, where you can witness the fascinating process of transforming rose petals into fragrant rose water and oil. Continue westward to Ouarzazate, a city known for its connection to the film industry, with its surrounding regions serving as backdrops for iconic movies like Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and Black Hawk Down. Delve into the world of cinema with a guided tour of a movie studio and a visit to the Musée du Cinema, where you can gain insights into the filmmaking process and the area’s cinematic history.
Next, venture to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Benhaddou. This ancient ksar, dating back to the 11th century, once played a vital role along the trans-Saharan trade route. Settle into your accommodation within the old town and immerse yourself in the charm of its narrow alleys and passageways during the late afternoon. Climb up to the old Granary, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the kasbah and its surroundings. For fans of Game of Thrones, a trek to the river will reveal the gates featured in the popular HBO series. Enjoy a tranquil dinner overlooking the valley, savoring the peaceful ambiance long after the day’s crowds have departed.
Bid farewell to Aït Benhaddou as you embark on a remarkable journey over the majestic High Atlas mountains. Marvel at the sight of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in the range, soaring at an impressive 13,671 feet (4,167 m). Pause near the summit to stretch your legs and take in a panoramic view of the breathtaking mountainscape. Make a stop in Taddert to visit an Argan Oil Cooperative, where you can learn about the processing of argan nuts and fruits and even sample the various products derived from them. As you descend the High Atlas, you’ll witness a striking transition in climate and landscape, ultimately immersing yourself in the vibrant ambiance of Marrakech.
After a day of traversing the roads, settle into your hotel and enjoy the freedom to spend the afternoon as you please. As evening approaches, prepare for the bustling energy of Jemaa el-Fna, the main square and one of Africa’s liveliest squares. Here, a captivating array of musicians, performers, snake charmers, games, and food stalls create a vibrant tapestry of entertainment. You can choose to admire this spectacular scene from one of the many cafés surrounding the square while savoring a cup of refreshing mint tea and a delicious meal.
Marrakech, once a pivotal trading hub for the Berber tribes of the Atlas mountains and the sub-Saharan trading routes through Ouarzazate, holds deep Berber roots intertwined with its history. Join your knowledgeable guide as you embark on an exploration of the vibrant heart of Marrakech’s medina, a maze of bustling souks (markets). Immerse yourself in a sensory feast as you peruse an array of treasures, from aromatic spices and exquisite jewelry to vibrant kaftans, captivating lanterns, and luxurious carpets. Take note of the expansive open spaces found amidst the narrow alleyways, once bustling fondouks or caravanserais that provided accommodation for travelers and merchants.
Delve into the intricate craftsmanship of the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a stunning 16th-century Islamic school adorned with intricately carved cedar, sculpted plaster, and dazzling zellij tilework. Visit the Marrakech Museum, housed within the enchanting 19th-century Dar Mnebbi Palace, and admire a collection of both modern and traditional Moroccan art and artifacts. Explore the captivating Kasbah area, paying a visit to the historic Saadian Tombs, dating back five centuries, before immersing yourself in the beauty of the Bahia Palace and the remnants of the El Badi Palace. If time permits, seek solace from the bustling streets and escape to the serene Majorelle Gardens in the Ville Nouvelle, allowing yourself a moment of tranquility before bidding farewell to Marrakech and embarking on your return journey home.
