This 10-day journey through Morocco’s imperial cities, Sahara Desert, and coastal towns offers a complete immersion into the country’s rich heritage and diverse landscapes. Begin in the spiritual capital of Fes, sleep among the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, and explore the red city of Marrakech. Wander the blue streets of Chefchaouen, discover Roman ruins, and conclude in cosmopolitan Tangier. This is Morocco in all its splendor.
Your 10-day Morocco adventure begins with a pickup from Fes Airport. A private transfer brings you to your Riad in the heart of the medina. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax, settle in, and begin absorbing the unique atmosphere of this ancient city. Overnight in Fes.
After breakfast, enjoy a guided city tour of Fes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities and a cultural and spiritual hub. The exploration begins at the Royal Palace gate, a masterpiece of modern Moroccan craftsmanship. We then drive through the Jewish quarter, known as “the Mellah.” A stop at an ancient fortress offers a panoramic view of the Medina and the city beyond.
Next, step inside the well-preserved medieval Fes Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visits include Bab Boujloud (the Blue Gate), Medrasa Bou Inania, the Nejjarine Fountain, the famous Tanneries, and the historic Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University—the oldest university in the world. In the afternoon, return to your Riad for free time to rest or explore further on your own. Overnight in Fes.
After breakfast, we drive south through Imouzzer to Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style houses and cool climate. The journey continues to the Cedar Forest, home to troops of wild Barbary macaques. A stop allows time to observe these playful primates before we continue to Midelt for lunch.
The afternoon route travels through the Tizi-n-Tilghmt Pass and along the Ziz Valley, with scenic stops offering panoramic views of palm groves and dramatic landscapes. By late afternoon, we reach Merzouga at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Here begins the quintessential desert experience: a camel trek across the golden dunes. The caravan pauses to admire a stunning desert sunset before continuing to your luxury desert camp. The evening unfolds with Berber music, dancing around the campfire, a delicious dinner, and an overnight stay under the starry Sahara sky.
After breakfast at the camp, we visit Rissani, once the capital of the Tafilalet region. Its lively traditional market offers a vibrant glimpse into local life. We continue to Erfoud to explore a fossil workshop, where ancient marine life preserved in stone reveals the region’s prehistoric past.
The route winds through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad before arriving at the spectacular Todra Gorges. Towering red cliffs create a dramatic canyon that draws visitors from around the world. Free time allows for lunch and a walk along the river beneath the towering walls.
We continue through Boumalne Dades to the Dades Valley. Stops at viewpoints along the way reveal the famous “Monkey Fingers” rock formations. Dinner and overnight in a traditional Riad.
After breakfast, we travel to Kalaat M’gouna to explore the Rose Valley, famous for its May Rose Festival and local cosmetic products. The journey continues through the palm groves of Skoura to Ouarzazate, known as the “gateway to the desert.” A visit to the film studios reveals where many international movies were shot.
We proceed to the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a stunning fortified village featured in films such as Gladiator and series like Game of Thrones. Time is allotted to explore its winding alleys and admire the architecture.
The route then crosses the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Scenic stops along the way offer breathtaking views of the mountain landscape. By evening, we arrive in Marrakech for an overnight stay in a Riad.
After breakfast, explore Marrakech with a local guide. The morning includes visits to the 19th-century Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, and the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a historic Islamic college. We wander through the lively Medina with its bustling souks, where vibrant textiles and crafts fill the alleyways.
We admire the Koutoubia Mosque from outside before experiencing the energy of Jamaa El Fna Square. This UNESCO-listed cultural space comes alive with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls.
In the afternoon, visit the famous Majorelle Garden (advance booking recommended). A drive through Gueliz, the modern district, offers a contrast to the ancient medina before returning to your Riad. Overnight in Marrakech.
After breakfast, we travel west toward the Atlantic coast. Along the way, stops at argan tree cooperatives offer insight into the production of Morocco’s famous oil. With luck, you might spot goats climbing the argan trees in search of fruit.
We arrive in Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador, a historic coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere. Explore its working fishing port, ancient ramparts, historic cannons, and charming blue-and-white Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town’s unique blend of Moroccan and European influences creates a distinctive character. Overnight in Essaouira.
After breakfast, we drive along the highway to Casablanca, Morocco’s economic hub and largest city. The main visit is to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Its towering minaret and oceanfront location create an unforgettable sight.
We also explore the Casablanca Corniche, a lively seaside promenade, Mohammed V Square, with its beautiful colonial architecture, and the iconic Rick’s Café, a recreation of the famous bar from the classic film. Overnight in Casablanca.
After breakfast, we head to Rabat, the capital of Morocco. Visits include the incomplete Hassan Tower, a 12th-century minaret, the nearby Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the historic Kasbah of the Oudayas, a fortress overlooking the Atlantic.
After lunch, we continue north via Ouazzane to reach Chefchaouen, the famous “Blue City” nestled in the Rif Mountains. Its blue-washed streets and relaxed atmosphere have made it one of Morocco’s most photographed destinations. Overnight in a hotel in Chefchaouen.
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy free time to stroll through Chefchaouen’s blue-painted streets one last time. The morning light offers perfect conditions for photographs of this enchanting town.
We then transfer to Tangier. The tour ends with drop-off at Tangier Airport or your chosen location in the city. Alternatively, the tour can conclude in Fes if preferred. This marks the end of your 10-day Moroccan journey.
