Embark on an extraordinary 12-day adventure across Morocco, beginning in the bustling city of Marrakech. This journey will take you through the vibrant landscapes, ancient cities, breathtaking deserts, and rich cultural heritage of this North African gem. With meticulously planned itineraries, this tour offers an unforgettable experience blending history, adventure, and relaxation.
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech
Your journey begins in Marrakech, the “Red City”, where you will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your accommodation. After settling in, explore Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, a UNESCO-listed site brimming with street performers, snake charmers, and food stalls. Wander through the souks, famous for their traditional crafts, spices, and textiles.
Day 2: Exploring Marrakech
Delve into the city’s rich history with a visit to Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and the Koutoubia Mosque. The Majorelle Garden, designed by Yves Saint Laurent, offers a peaceful retreat with its vibrant blue buildings and exotic plants. End your day with a traditional Moroccan dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou & Ouarzazate
Depart for Ait Benhaddou, a stunning UNESCO-listed kasbah that has served as a backdrop for Hollywood movies. En route, cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains, offering spectacular views. Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” and visit the Atlas Film Studios and Taourirt Kasbah.
Day 4: Ouarzazate to Dades Valley and Todra Gorge
Journey through the scenic Dades Valley, also known as the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, with its striking rock formations and traditional Berber villages. Continue to Todra Gorge, where towering cliffs reach heights of 300 meters. Spend the night in a charming guesthouse nestled within the valley.
Day 5: Todra Gorge to Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
Head towards Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Arrive in the late afternoon and embark on a camel trek across the golden dunes to your luxurious desert camp. Enjoy a magical sunset, traditional Berber music, and a starlit sky over the Sahara.
Day 6: Exploring the Sahara Desert
Spend a full day in the Sahara Desert, visiting nomadic families and exploring the nearby Khamlia village, famous for its Gnawa music. Experience sandboarding, quad biking, or a 4×4 tour of the dunes. In the evening, witness another breathtaking sunset over the Sahara.
Day 7: Merzouga to Midelt via Ziz Valley
Bid farewell to the desert and travel through Ziz Valley, a lush oasis filled with date palm groves. Stop in Erfoud, renowned for its fossil workshops. Continue to Midelt, a picturesque town nestled between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas Mountains.
Day 8: Midelt to Fes via Cedar Forests
Journey through the Cedar Forests of Azrou, home to Barbary macaques, before arriving in Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco.” Reach Fes, Morocco’s cultural and spiritual capital, and settle into your riad.
Day 9: Exploring Fes
Spend the day discovering Fes el-Bali, the world’s largest car-free medina. Visit Al Quaraouiyine University, the oldest university in the world, as well as Chouara Tannery, Bou Inania Madrasa, and the stunning Royal Palace Gates. Explore the bustling souks and artisan workshops.
Day 10: Fes to Chefchaouen
Travel to Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl of Morocco, nestled in the Rif Mountains. Wander through its charming blue-painted streets, visit Plaza Uta el-Hammam, and hike to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views.
Day 11: Chefchaouen to Rabat & Casablanca
Depart for Rabat, Morocco’s capital, to visit Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and Kasbah des Oudayas. Continue to Casablanca and explore the Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques with stunning oceanfront views.
Day 12: Casablanca to Marrakech & Departure
Conclude your journey with a return to Marrakech for any last-minute shopping or sightseeing before your departure.
Why Choose This 12-Day Morocco Tour?
- Authentic experiences with local guides
- Luxury desert camp stay in the Sahara
- Diverse landscapes from mountains to deserts
- Historical and cultural immersion
- Comfortable accommodations and seamless transfers