10-Day Morocco Tour from Tangier to Casablanca via Sahara

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Arrival in Tangier – Transfer to Chefchaouen⌄

   Enjoy the scenic journey from Tangier toward Chefchaouen as the landscape changes from open plains to the green hills and mountains of the Rif region. This drive offers panoramic views and a first introduction to northern Morocco.

   Explore Chefchaouen’s famous blue-washed medina, narrow streets, local shops, and relaxed atmosphere. Walk through the old town and discover the distinctive architecture and daily life of one of Morocco’s most photogenic destinations.

   Visit the central square of Chefchaouen, surrounded by cafés, restaurants, traditional buildings, and the historic kasbah. Enjoy free time to relax, take photos, or have a meal nearby.

   Take a short uphill walk to the Spanish Mosque, located on a hill overlooking Chefchaouen. The viewpoint offers panoramic views of the blue city and the Rif Mountains and is especially attractive near sunset.

   Overnight: Overnight in a local riad or hotel in Chefchaouen

2. 2Chefchaouen – Rabat⌄

   Explore the historic Chellah complex, a fortified archaeological site combining Roman remains with later Islamic architecture. Walk through the ruins and gardens while learning about Rabat’s long history.

   Discover one of Rabat’s most historic neighborhoods, known for its white-and-blue streets, traditional architecture, and peaceful atmosphere overlooking the Bou Regreg River.

   Walk through the tranquil Andalusian Gardens inside the Kasbah of the Udayas. The landscaped gardens provide a quiet break surrounded by traditional Moroccan design and greenery.

   Visit Hassan Tower, the unfinished minaret of a 12th-century mosque and one of Rabat’s most recognizable monuments. Learn about its history and importance to Morocco’s imperial heritage.

   See the impressive Mausoleum of Mohammed V, known for its white marble exterior, traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, and historical significance.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight in a hotel in Rabat

3. 3Rabat – Fes (via Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, Meknes)⌄

   Explore the UNESCO-listed Roman ruins of Volubilis, including ancient columns, arches, merchant houses, and detailed mosaics that reflect Morocco’s Roman past.

   Visit the historic hill town of Moulay Idriss, an important spiritual destination in Morocco. Admire its traditional streets, surrounding hills, and distinctive architecture.

   Stop at Bab Mansour, one of Morocco’s most impressive imperial gates, known for its monumental design, colorful tilework, and historic importance.

   Explore part of the imperial city of Meknes and learn about the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Depending on access, see historic areas, monumental architecture, and important city landmarks.

   Arrive in Fes and transfer to your riad in the historic city. Check in and enjoy free time before the next day’s guided exploration.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight in a luxury riad in Fes

4. 4Guided Tour and Exploring Fes⌄

   Explore the UNESCO-listed old medina of Fes with a local guide. Walk through narrow streets filled with traditional markets, workshops, bakeries, and historic buildings while learning about the city’s culture and daily life.

   Visit one of Fes’ most important historic religious schools and admire its traditional Moroccan architecture, carved wood, plaster decoration, and detailed tilework.

   See the famous Chouara Tanneries from a panoramic terrace and learn how leather has been traditionally prepared and dyed in Fes for generations.

   Visit a local workshop to see how traditional Moroccan pottery and zellij mosaics are produced by skilled artisans using techniques passed down through generations.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight in a luxury riad in Fes

5. 5Fes – Merzouga (Sahara Desert via Middle Atlas Mountains)⌄

   Stop in the Middle Atlas region and enjoy the mountain scenery and alpine-style architecture of Ifrane before continuing toward the Sahara.

   Visit the cedar forest near Azrou, known for its natural scenery and Barbary macaques. Enjoy a short walk and time for photos.

   Stop in Midelt for a rest and lunch break before continuing through the changing landscapes of eastern Morocco toward the desert.

   Stop at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Ziz Valley, where palm groves, traditional villages, and desert cliffs create one of the region’s most impressive landscapes.

   Ride a camel across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi as you travel deeper into the Sahara. Travelers who prefer not to ride a camel may take the available 4x4 alternative.

   Arrive at the desert camp and enjoy dinner, local music, and the peaceful atmosphere of the Sahara. Spend the evening under the stars before staying overnight in the camp.

   Meals: Breakfast · Dinner

   Overnight: Overnight in a luxury desert camp in Erg Chebbi

6. 6Merzouga – Todra Gorge – Dades Gorges⌄

   Begin the morning with views of sunrise over the Sahara dunes before returning from the camp by camel or 4x4 and continuing toward the Dades region.

   Stop in Tinghir and explore the palm-filled oasis and traditional surroundings. Learn about local agriculture, village life, and the region’s historic communities.

   Walk through Todra Gorge, where towering limestone cliffs rise dramatically on both sides. Enjoy time for photos and a short walk through one of Morocco’s most impressive natural landscapes.

   Meals: Breakfast · Dinner

   Overnight: Overnight in a hotel or riad in Dades Gorges

7. 7Dades – Ouarzazate – Aït Benhaddou – Marrakech⌄

   Stop in Ouarzazate, often called the gateway to the Sahara and an important center for Morocco’s film industry. Enjoy time to explore the city and learn about its connection to international cinema.

   Explore the UNESCO-listed ksar of Aït Benhaddou, one of Morocco’s best-known fortified villages. Walk through the traditional earthen buildings and enjoy panoramic views from the upper areas.

   Cross the High Atlas Mountains and enjoy dramatic scenery, mountain villages, and panoramic viewpoints along the route toward Marrakech.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight in a hotel or riad in Marrakech

8. 8Full Day Exploring Marrakech⌄

   See Marrakech’s iconic Koutoubia Mosque and its famous minaret. Learn about its history and architectural importance while exploring the surrounding exterior and gardens.

   Visit the historic Ben Youssef Madrasa and admire its carved cedar, plasterwork, traditional tile decoration, and elegant courtyard.

   Explore Bahia Palace, known for its decorated courtyards, gardens, mosaics, and traditional Moroccan architecture.

   Finish the guided exploration at Marrakech’s famous central square and experience its lively atmosphere, food stalls, street performances, and local culture.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight in a hotel or riad in Marrakech

9. 9Marrakech – Safi – El Jadida⌄

   Visit Safi, a coastal city famous for its pottery and ceramic traditions. See local workshops and learn how colorful Moroccan pottery is produced using traditional methods.

   Explore the historic Portuguese City of El Jadida, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its fortified walls, old streets, and Atlantic views.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight in a hotel or riad in El Jadida

10. 10El Jadida – Casablanca (End of Tour)⌄

    Arrive in Casablanca and enjoy a brief introduction to Morocco’s largest city. Depending on the departure schedule, there may be time for a short panoramic stop or city view.

    Continue to Mohammed V International Airport or the agreed Casablanca drop-off point, where the 10-day Morocco journey concludes.

    Meals: Breakfast