🐪10-Days Morocco Highlights: Cities, Sahara & Atlantic Coast

Meals: Breakfast | Guided walking tour

Step back in time as you explore the cultural capital of Morocco. Accompanied by a local expert guide, discover Fes el-Bali, the largest and oldest medina in the world, a labyrinth of over 9,000 narrow streets and alleys.

Highlights include:

• The Royal Palace Gate and the old Jewish quarter (Mellah)

• The Bou Inania Madrasa, a stunning example of Marinid architecture

• The University of Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest continuously operating university in the world, founded by Fatima al-Fihri

• The colorful tanneries, where leather is dyed in giant stone vats

• The Najjarine Fountain and the woodworkers’ souk

After a traditional Moroccan lunch inside the medina, enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the old fortress and visit a pottery cooperative. Evening free to rest or explore the lively streets of Fes at your own pace. Overnight in riad.

Transport: 7 hrs | Driving Distance: 480 km | Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

A scenic adventure awaits! Depart Fes and head south through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping at Ifrane, often nicknamed the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture. Continue to the cedar forests of Azrou, home to playful Barbary macaques.

Your journey then winds through mountain passes, Berber villages, and the Ziz Valley, famous for its palm groves and dramatic landscapes. After crossing into the desert region, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, gateway to the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes. Overnight in a desert riad or kasbah with dinner.

Transport: 2 hrs | Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, explore the desert region and learn about its unique culture. Visit the Gnawa people in Khamlia village and enjoy their traditional music. Depending on the season, you may also see the seasonal Merzouga lake, home to migratory birds such as flamingos.

In the afternoon, prepare for a camel trek into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Your camel caravan will carry you through the rolling sands just in time to witness a magical desert sunset. Arrive at your luxury desert camp, where a traditional Moroccan dinner is served under the starry Saharan sky. Spend the night in a Bedouin-style tent surrounded by silence and starlight.

Transport: 6 hrs | Driving Distance: 390 km | Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Wake up early to watch the breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, then ride camels back to the village where your driver awaits. Today’s route takes you through spectacular landscapes, beginning with the Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon carved by the Todra River with cliffs towering over 300 meters.

Continue along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, through fertile valleys and fortified villages. Stop at Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa” due to its famous film studios. Finally, arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco’s most iconic ksar (fortified village), used as a backdrop for movies such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Overnight in a traditional kasbah hotel.

Transport: 6 hrs | Driving Distance: 371 km | Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, depart Ait Ben Haddou and cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka pass (2260m). Along the way, stop at a women’s cooperative to see how argan oil is traditionally produced.

By late afternoon, arrive in Essaouira, Morocco’s most charming coastal city. With its whitewashed medina, Portuguese fortifications, and relaxed seaside atmosphere, Essaouira is a refreshing contrast to the desert and mountains. Stroll along the ramparts at sunset and soak up the Atlantic breeze. Overnight in a boutique riad.

Transport: 3 hrs | Driving Distance: 177 km | Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Essaouira. Visit the vibrant fishing port, explore the medina’s artisan workshops, or simply relax on the beach. Later, drive inland towards the “Red City” of Marrakech, arriving by the afternoon. The rest of the day is free for you to rest or explore the bustling square of Jemaa el-Fnaa, where snake charmers, storytellers, and food stalls bring the city to life. Overnight in a traditional riad.

Meals: Breakfast | Guided walking tour

Today, discover the vibrant sights and sounds of Marrakech, Morocco’s most famous city. Your private guide will lead you through the medina’s labyrinth of souks, filled with colorful spices, textiles, and handicrafts.

Highlights include:

• The Koutoubia Mosque with its iconic minaret

• The Saadian Tombs, resting place of the Saadian dynasty

• The Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture

• The lush Majorelle Gardens, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent

• The lively square of Jemaa el-Fnaa, with its street performers and food stalls

In the evening, you may choose to enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner with live music and dance. Overnight in riad.

Meals: Breakfast | Airport transfer

Your Moroccan adventure comes to an end today. After breakfast, enjoy free time until your airport transfer. Depending on your flight, you may depart from Marrakech airport or drive back to Casablanca airport (additional cost).

We wish you a safe journey home and hope Morocco has left you with unforgettable memories of its warm people, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes.