12 Days In Morocco Including the north

Day 1: Casblanca

Upon arrival in Casablanca, take some time to relax and get oriented after your flight. Later, visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque located on the Atlantic Ocean. This impressive mosque is open to tourists, regardless of their religion, and offers stunning views of the ocean.

Day 2: Chefchaouen

After breakfast, depart from Casablanca and head towards the north to the capital city of Rabat. Once you arrive, enjoy a few hours of sightseeing to discover some of the highlights including the Hassan II mausoleum and tower as well as the Kasbah Oudaya which overlooks the ocean and boasts a beautiful garden within its walls.

After the visit, sit back and relax as you travel through the scenic Rif Mountains towards Chefchaouen.

Day 3: Fes

Take a leisurely morning stroll through the picturesque medina of Chefchaouen, where local women are busy preparing to do the family wash at the nearby riverbed and shopkeepers are slowly opening their businesses for the day. Take a moment to enjoy a coffee in the charming square and contemplate the simple yet magnificent way of life in the mountains.

The day is yours to explore the countryside and make your way to the bustling and ancient city of Fes, with its labyrinthine and vibrant Medina.

Day 4: Fes

Meet your local city guide and embark on a full-day tour of Fes and its surroundings. Start by admiring the ornate brass gates of the Royal Palace and explore the Jewish quarter. Stroll through the bustling and labyrinthine medina, taking in the sights and sounds of the vibrant marketplace. Along the way, witness demonstrations of traditional crafts such as weaving, carpet-making, brass-hammering, and pottery. Visit the renowned tanneries, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about the centuries-old natural dyeing methods. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your riad, filled with awe and wonder from the day’s experiences.

Day 5: Sahara Desert

Embark on a new adventure as you bid farewell to Fes and set off on a camel ride through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Traverse through scenic cedar forests, spot playful Macaque monkeys and Berber horses, and visit the charming European-style village of Ifrane, affectionately dubbed the “Switzerland of Morocco”. Journey south to Midelt, taking in the picturesque Ziz Valley and its lush date palm oases, before passing by Berber villages and kasbahs en route to Merzouga. Upon arrival, swap your car for a camel and trek to your campsite, nestled amidst the tranquil dunes of the Sahara Desert. Alternatively, opt for a 4×4 ride instead. Enjoy a night under the stars, accompanied by the hearty meals prepared by the nomads who run the camp.

Day 6: Todgha Gorge

After returning to the car, you will travel through Erfoud, known as the date capital of Morocco, and drive along the Valley of 1,000 Kasbahs, featuring both old and new kasbahs. Then, head towards Todgha Gorge, where you can spend some time exploring the gorge basin and marveling at the impressive 350m rock face. Spend the night in the nearby valley at Chez Pierre or a similar accommodation, where you can experience the traditional Berber lifestyle of the south.

Day 7: Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah

This morning, explore Dades Gorge before driving through the scenic Roses Valley en route to Ouarzazate. Take a break along the way to see the ancient irrigation system known as « khetteras ». Once in Ait Ben Haddou, enjoy the stunning views of the riverbed and monument, and take a walk through the village up to the top of the kasbah. Spend the night at a traditional guesthouse with dinner included.

Day 8: Essaouira

Today, you’ll head west to Essaouira, a charming Portuguese fishing village. While bypassing Marrakech, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the quiet medina, where artists and musicians showcase their talents. Take a tour of the working fishing port and select your lunch straight off the boat to be prepared on a nearby grill. You can also enjoy a peaceful walk for miles along the beach. Don’t miss the sunset, which is a big draw for locals and visitors alike.

Day 9: Marrakech

Embark on a 3-hour drive in the morning towards the Red City, with a stop along the way at an argan cooperative to witness the production of the purest oil. Upon arrival, settle into your charming riad near the old Medina. As evening falls, head to Jemna el Fna square to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of snake charmers, street performers, and orange juice vendors. Indulge in some traditional Moroccan barbecue or perhaps take a bold step and try the snail soup.

Day 10: Marrakech

On this day, you will meet your guide at your riad for a half-day tour of Marrakech’s famous landmarks, including the Koutoubia Mosque, the Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and the Mellah, or old Jewish quarter. After lunch, you can explore the bustling souks for souvenirs and practice your haggling skills. Alternatively, you can visit a local hammam or relax in the serene Jardin Majorelle to escape the city’s chaos.

Day 11: Casablanca

You have the day to yourself to travel to Casablanca at your leisure. You may choose to arrive in the early afternoon or take this opportunity to visit other attractions in Marrakech that you didn’t have time to see during the tour. Your driver will be available to take you to Casablanca whenever you are ready.

Day 12: Departure