Overview:
Explore the captivating beauty and cultural richness of Morocco with this 8-day tour itinerary from Marrakech. From the vibrant streets of the Red City to the serene sands of the Sahara, this journey is designed to offer an immersive experience, blending history, culture, and nature. Whether you’re drawn to ancient architecture, dramatic landscapes, or the warmth of Moroccan hospitality, this tour has it all.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech
Welcome to Marrakech
Your 8-day tour itinerary from Marrakech adventure begins in the bustling city of Marrakech. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel or riad to settle in. Spend your first evening exploring Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s famous square filled with street performers, musicians, and food stalls.
Optional Evening Tour
Take a short walk through the Medina to experience the magical atmosphere of Marrakech by night. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner to kick off your journey.
Day 2: Marrakech City Tour
Discover the Red City
Spend the day uncovering the historic and cultural highlights of Marrakech. A guided tour will take you to:
- Koutoubia Mosque: The largest mosque in Marrakech with its iconic minaret.
- Bahia Palace: A masterpiece of Moroccan architecture and design.
- Saadian Tombs: A stunning royal necropolis.
- Majorelle Garden: A peaceful retreat with lush greenery and vibrant blue structures.
Evening at Leisure
Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the bustling souks or take a carriage ride around the city.
Day 3: Marrakech to Dades Valley via Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate
Atlas Mountains and Beyond
Depart Marrakech and cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Ait Ben Haddou
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, a historic ksar famous for its earthen architecture and its appearance in several Hollywood films.
Ouarzazate
Stop in Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” to explore the Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Film Studios.
Dades Valley
Arrive in the scenic Dades Valley, also known as the Valley of Roses. Check into your hotel or guesthouse and enjoy dinner amidst the stunning backdrop of red rock formations.
Day 4: Dades Valley to Merzouga Desert via Todra Gorges
Todra Gorges
After breakfast, head to the dramatic Todra Gorges, where towering cliffs create a striking natural wonder. Take a walk along the river and capture some memorable photos.
Arrival in Merzouga
In the afternoon, reach the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga. Switch to camels for a trek through the golden sands as the sun sets over the horizon.
Overnight in a Desert Camp
Experience the magic of the Sahara with an overnight stay in a luxury desert camp. Savor a traditional Moroccan dinner, enjoy live music, and stargaze in the serene desert night.
Day 5: Merzouga to Midelt via Ziz Valley
Morning in the Desert
Start your day with a spectacular sunrise over the dunes, followed by a hearty breakfast at the camp.
Journey to Midelt
Travel through the lush Ziz Valley, with its endless palm groves and kasbahs. Stop for photos at scenic viewpoints before continuing to Midelt, a town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains.
Overnight in Midelt
Spend the night in a charming guesthouse or hotel, enjoying the fresh mountain air and a quiet evening.
Day 6: Midelt to Fes via Ifrane and Cedar Forest
Ifrane – The Switzerland of Morocco
Drive through the picturesque Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane, a quaint alpine-style town known for its clean streets and European architecture.
Cedar Forest of Azrou
Visit the Cedar Forest, home to Barbary macaques. Take a walk among the towering trees and enjoy the playful antics of the monkeys.
Arrival in Fes
Arrive in Fes, one of Morocco’s oldest imperial cities. Check into your riad and enjoy dinner in the heart of the Medina.
Day 7: Fes Guided City Tour
Explore the Historic Medina
Spend the day exploring Fes el-Bali, the oldest walled Medina in Morocco. A guided tour will take you to:
- Al-Qarawiyyin University: The world’s oldest continually operating university.
- Bou Inania Madrasa: An architectural gem of Islamic design.
- Chouara Tanneries: Witness the ancient art of leather production.
- Royal Palace of Fes: Admire the magnificent golden gates.
Cultural Immersion
Visit artisan workshops and souks to learn about traditional crafts, including pottery, weaving, and metalwork.
Day 8: Fes to Marrakech (Optional Departure)
Return to Marrakech
For those ending the tour in Marrakech, travel back via a scenic route, enjoying the landscapes of the Atlas Mountains one last time.
Departure from Fes
Alternatively, transfer to the airport in Fes for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of Morocco.
Tour Highlights
- Historic Sites: Discover Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, and the Medinas of Marrakech and Fes.
- Sahara Experience: Ride camels, witness desert sunrises, and stay in a luxury desert camp.
- Natural Wonders: Explore Todra Gorges, Ziz Valley, and the Cedar Forest.
- Cultural Immersion: Learn about Moroccan traditions, crafts, and local life.