Begin your unforgettable journey on a nine-day Morocco tour that encompasses culture, history, adventure, and relaxation. Delve into the vibrant city of Marrakech before venturing into the vast desert, where you’ll uncover the hidden gems of kasbahs, ancient caravan routes, and the awe-inspiring Saharan dunes. Traverse the majestic High Atlas Mountains, trek amidst picturesque villages, and immerse yourself in the genuine hospitality of a local family during a memorable overnight stay. This captivating experience blends exploration and tranquility, ensuring lasting memories of Morocco’s enchanting wonders.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Marrakech - Explore the Red City | Marrakech |
| Day 2 | Over the High Atlas to Ouarzazate | Ouarzazate |
| Day 3 | Over the Middle Atlas to the Desert: Erfoud, Merzouga & the Sahara | Merzouga |
| Day 4 | Desert Adventures Around Merzouga, Rissani Market & Todra Gorge | Todra Gorge |
| Day 5 | Todra Gorge to Aït Benhaddou, via Dades Valley & Ouarzazate | Aït Benhaddou |
| Day 6 | Aït Benhaddou to Marrakech - Tizi n'Tichka Pass Over the High Atlas | Marrakech |
| Day 7 | Marrakech to Essaouira | Essaouira |
| Day 8 | Essaouira to Marrakech | Marrakech |
| Day 9 | Depart Morocco |
Welcome to Marrakech, the vibrant “Red City” of Morocco, renowned for its distinctive red ocher walls. Upon reaching your accommodation, get ready to immerse yourself in a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and aromas as you begin to explore this bustling metropolis. The extent of your explorations today will depend on your arrival time.
To navigate the city, familiarize yourself with Jemaa el-Fna Square as a central reference point. From here, you can find the souks to the north, the Koutoubia Mosque & Gardens to the west, and the Kasbah area to the south, which is home to the Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, and El Badi Palace.
Jemaa el-Fna Square is a highlight for many visitors, particularly in the late afternoon when it comes alive with musicians, storytellers, acrobats, dancers, henna artists, and snake charmers. As night falls, an array of food stalls emerges, offering a range of delectable options from complete meals to refreshing fruit drinks and snacks. For a more relaxed experience, seek out one of the cafes overlooking the square, where you can savor a meal or tea while observing the captivating spectacle below.
Before the square comes alive, you have the opportunity to explore various attractions in Marrakech, such as:
Let the magic of Marrakech enchant you as you embark on this unforgettable journey through its vibrant streets and historical landmarks.
Embark on a remarkable journey as you traverse the majestic High Atlas Mountains. Keep an eye out for Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in this impressive mountain range, standing tall at 13,671 feet (4,167 meters). These mountains are home to the Berbers, a resilient mountain-dwelling community whose villages and daily activities offer a captivating glimpse into their way of life. Marvel at the traditional mud-brick homes and more modern concrete structures that coexist in these settlements.
As you make your way, take a refreshing break in Taddert, an ideal spot for a quick rest and some refreshments. Continuing along the N9 road, you’ll wind your way up to the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, reaching an elevation of 7,414 feet (2,260 meters). From this vantage point, soak in breathtaking panoramic views of the mountain range you’ve traversed and the road you’ve recently traveled.
As you descend the south-facing slopes of the High Atlas Mountains, you’ll notice a significant change in climate, with the surroundings becoming progressively drier. This transition marks your approach to Ouarzazate, a destination awaiting your arrival.
Prepare to be captivated by the natural beauty and cultural wonders that lie ahead as you continue your journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes.
Rise and shine for an early start as you embark on an eventful day of exploration. Today’s scenic adventure will take you across vast distances, so be prepared for an exciting journey.
Begin your morning by passing through the charming town of Azrou, ascending the Col du Zad Pass, and venturing into the enchanting cedar forests of the Middle Atlas mountains. Keep an eye out for Barbary macaque monkeys frolicking amidst the trees and along the roadside. Take a moment to enjoy lunch and a brief stop in Midelt, affectionately known as “the apple city.” Don’t forget to marvel at the River Moulouya, whose presence in the desert enables flourishing orchards.
After lunch, continue your expedition by crossing the Tizi-n-Talremt Pass and entering the picturesque Ziz Valley, renowned for its hidden oases and clusters of palm trees. Along the route, you’ll encounter numerous fortified houses called “ksars,” once built by merchants to safeguard valuable commodities like gold, salt, and spices. Just before reaching Erfoud, catch glimpses of the ever-shifting sand dunes of the Sahara. These dynamic dunes have a remarkable ability to encroach upon farms, roads, and buildings as they move with the wind. Witness the ingenious technique of water “mining,” an ancient method employed to irrigate farmlands. You may also encounter nomadic shepherds and their settlements along the way. If time allows, seize the opportunity to visit a local nomadic Berber family and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.
Next, arrive in Erfoud, a bustling market town celebrated for its date festival, fossil mining, and artisan factories. Make a stop at a local artisan collective to learn about the region’s fossils and witness the mesmerizing transformation of fossil-rich rocks into exquisite objects. Soon, you’ll witness the captivating sand waves of the Erg Chebbi, an expansive sea of sand dunes. These majestic dunes display varying hues depending on the time of day, reaching their zenith of splendor during dusk.
Pause near Merzouga for a delightful camel ride through the dunes, creating cherished memories amidst the breathtaking scenery. Arrive at the camp just in time for sunset, where you can climb the nearest sand dune and witness a captivating display of colors as the sun descends in the west. Return to camp for a delectable dinner followed by an enchanting evening of traditional Berber music around the campfire. Before retiring to your traditional Bedouin tent, take a moment to gaze upon the expansive night sky, studded with countless stars.
Alternatively, if you prefer the comfort of modern amenities, you have the option to spend the night in a comfortable hotel or auberge in Merzouga, offering a cozy retreat in the desert landscape.
Begin your day by waking up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the desert. Take advantage of the morning to further immerse yourself in the wonders of the Sahara. Choose from a range of exciting activities such as renting a sandboard to glide down the dunes, embarking on an Erg Chebbi tour to explore the surrounding dunes, joining a thrilling quad ATV adventure, or simply relaxing by a refreshing pool. Indulge in the tranquility and beauty of the desert landscape.
Next, make your way to Khemliya, a traditional Saharan village whose residents originally hail from Mali. Experience the vibrant beats of traditional drumming music and enjoy captivating local dances. Take a leisurely stroll around the settlement, soaking in the authentic atmosphere and immersing yourself in the local culture.
As you bid farewell to the Merzouga region and the captivating dunes, make a stop in the market town of Rissani. Enter through its impressive gate and explore its lively streets. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the bustling livestock auction and take a walk through the traditional market, where you can soak up the vibrant atmosphere and observe the local way of life.
Continuing your journey, arrive at Tinerhir, a desert town offering stunning views of the neighboring towns nestled along the extensive river oasis. Marvel at the breathtaking sight of palm trees stretching for 30 miles (48 kilometers) along the oasis. The surrounding desert landscape boasts impressive buttes, mesas, and plateaus, adding to the picturesque charm of the area.
Finally, reach your destination for the day, the Todra Gorge. This natural wonder, carved by the Todra River through red limestone, towers almost 1,000 feet (305 meters) high. Take a leisurely walk in and around the gorge, appreciating its magnificent beauty and serenity. For a refreshing respite, dip your feet into the cool waters of the shallow river below.
The evening presents you with the freedom to explore and unwind at your own pace. Take the opportunity to discover more of the surroundings or simply relax and recharge, savoring the experiences of the day.
Embark on an enriching journey today as you travel west along the mesmerizing Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, with many of these fortified structures showcasing the rustic beauty of rammed earth construction. Along the way to Aït Benhaddou, you’ll pass through charming small towns, where you can witness traditional farming methods and catch glimpses of nomads tending to their animals. Traverse through Boumalne Dades, a significant town bridging the Dades River, and continue to Kela’a M’gouna, known as the “Valley of the Roses.” Here, delight in the sight of meticulously cultivated rose bushes and pay a visit to a rose collective to witness the process of transforming delicate rose petals into exquisite rose water and oil, highly valued in the cosmetic industry.
Next, venture into the thriving town of Ouarzazate, a popular stopover along the desert routes. This town has gained fame due to its growing movie industry, offering you the option to explore a movie studio, providing an up-close encounter with props and sets.
Continue your westward journey, making a quick stop at the el Mansour Reservoir, a vital water source for the local farming community, before reaching the desert hub and renowned filming location of Ouarzazate. For a deeper understanding of the film-making industry in the region, take some time to visit the Musée du Cinema.
Finally, arrive at the medieval marvel of Aït Benhaddou, the most famous kasbah in Morocco and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to the 11th century, this ancient ksar played a crucial role along the trans-Saharan trade route between Marrakech, Ouarzazate, and the southern desert. Settle into your accommodation nestled within the old town before embarking on an exploration of its deserted alleys and passages in the late afternoon, as the day crowds disperse.
Climb up to the old granary, offering a splendid vantage point to admire the kasbah and the surrounding area, including the historic camel caravan routes. There are a few well-preserved kasbahs where you can pay a nominal fee to enter and ascend, rewarding you with picturesque views. Fans of Game of Thrones may want to venture down to the river to witness the gates featured in the popular HBO series, recognizing iconic scenes from beloved movies such as Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and Jesus of Nazareth.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting history and cinematic allure of Aït Benhaddou, capturing the essence of its rich heritage against the stunning backdrop of the desert landscape.
Bid farewell to the captivating Aït Benhaddou as you embark on a picturesque journey over the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the renowned Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Make a stop in Taddert, the first town you encounter after descending from the pass. Here, visit the Argan Oil Cooperative and gain insights into the traditional process of extracting precious argan oil from the argan nut. Learn about its versatile uses in the health, food, and cosmetic industries, and appreciate the significance of this valuable local product.
As you continue your descent from the High Atlas, witness a magnificent transformation in the landscape. The towering rocks give way to gentle foothills, which gradually transition into vast plains. Marvel at the ever-changing scenery as you approach the vibrant city of Marrakech.
Upon reaching Marrakech, settle into your hotel and take some time to unwind from the day’s journey. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy as you please. In the early evening, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere surrounding Jemaa el-Fna Square. Choose one of the many charming cafés and indulge in a cup of refreshing mint tea while savoring a delightful meal. Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance and relish the enchanting energy of Marrakech.
Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique blend of flavors, aromas, and cultural delights that this captivating city has to offer.
Bid farewell to the vibrant Red City of Marrakech as you embark on a scenic journey towards Morocco’s serene west coast. Traverse vast rolling plains, witnessing the expansive beauty of the landscape. En route, pass through an argan tree forest, a distinctive feature of this region.
Arrive in the picturesque port city of Essaouira, offering a delightful contrast to the bustling energy of Marrakech. Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure, embracing the laid-back atmosphere and coastal allure. Begin by strolling along the Skala de la Kasbah, the 18th-century seafront ramparts. Admire the architectural marvels designed by European engineers, where old brass cannons line the walls, providing vantage points for breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Continue your exploration by immersing yourself in the UNESCO-listed medina of Essaouira. Wander through its charming narrow streets, discover hidden gems, and marvel at the vibrant colors and intricate craftsmanship of local artisans. Make your way towards the windswept beach, where you can enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze and the soothing sound of crashing waves. Take a leisurely walk back to the heart of Essaouira, and indulge in a delightful meal featuring the freshest seafood, sourced directly from the local fishermen.
Relish the tranquility and charm of Essaouira, as this captivating coastal town invites you to unwind, relax, and embrace its idyllic ambiance.
Savor a delightful morning in Essaouira, soaking up the coastal charm and tranquil atmosphere. As the day progresses, prepare to embark on your return journey to Marrakech.
As you make your way back through the scenic rolling plains, keep a lookout for an interesting sight: goats perched in the nearby argan trees. These nimble creatures naturally climb the trees to feast on the olives, showcasing their remarkable agility. Interestingly, many farmers have recognized the fascination these goats elicit from passing travelers and have “encouraged” them to stay up in the trees, turning this quirky sight into an additional source of income.
Continue your journey through the captivating landscapes, relishing the serene beauty of the rolling plains. As you approach Marrakech, reflect upon the unforgettable experiences and memories you have made throughout your exploration of Morocco.
Arriving back in Marrakech, you can once again immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the city. Take the opportunity to revisit your favorite spots, indulge in the culinary delights, and perhaps discover new hidden gems that Marrakech has to offer.
As the day draws to a close, reminisce about your incredible adventure, filled with cultural discoveries, natural wonders, and memorable encounters. Cherish the unique experiences and treasure the moments you have shared in the captivating country of Morocco.
As your journey in Morocco nears its end, seize the morning to indulge in some final explorations, depending on your flight schedule. Take advantage of any remaining time to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and captivating sights of Marrakech. Revisit your favorite spots, venture into the bustling souks, or simply savor a cup of mint tea in a charming café.
Ensure you allocate sufficient time to make your way to Marrakech Menara Airport, allowing for a smooth and timely departure. Bid a fond farewell to the enchanting country of Morocco, carrying with you cherished memories and the spirit of adventure that this remarkable journey has instilled.
Reflect upon the diverse landscapes, the rich cultural tapestry, and the warm hospitality that have made your time in Morocco truly unforgettable. Depart with a sense of fulfillment and gratitude, knowing that you have experienced the vibrant essence of this captivating destination.
May your journey home be safe and filled with pleasant reflections on the incredible experiences you have had during your time in Morocco. Until we meet again!
