Discover the Best of Morocco in 7 Days
A 7-day tour from Fes is the perfect way to experience the rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture of Morocco. This one-week itinerary will take you through the heart of Morocco, from the cultural treasures of Fes and Marrakech to the majestic Sahara Desert and the scenic Atlas Mountains. This adventure offers a mix of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and authentic Moroccan experiences.
Your journey begins in Fes, one of Morocco’s oldest imperial cities and a hub of culture and history. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel or riad, where you can relax before exploring the city.
Spend the afternoon exploring the medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world. The medina is a maze of narrow streets filled with bustling souks, mosques, and madrasas. Don’t miss the famous tanneries, where leather goods are made using traditional methods.
Visit Al Quaraouiyine University, founded in 859 AD and considered the oldest continuously operating university in the world. The architecture and historical significance of this site make it one of the must-see landmarks in Fes.
Overnight in Fes
After breakfast, you’ll leave Fes and begin the journey to Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. This scenic drive takes you through the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains.
Your first stop is in Ifrane, a charming town known for its alpine architecture and cool climate. Often called the “Switzerland of Morocco,” Ifrane is a popular place to relax and enjoy the fresh mountain air. You’ll then pass through the Cedar Forests near Azrou, where you may spot Barbary macaque monkeys.
The journey continues through the town of Midelt, where you’ll stop for lunch. Midelt is known for its apple orchards and stunning mountain scenery. After lunch, you’ll drive through the Ziz Valley, a lush oasis filled with date palms and ancient kasbahs, before arriving in Merzouga.
In the late afternoon, you’ll reach Merzouga, where you’ll begin a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Riding camels through the golden dunes as the sun sets is a magical experience. You’ll spend the night in a traditional Berber camp, enjoying a delicious dinner under the stars and sleeping in a Berber tent.
Day 3 is dedicated to exploring the Sahara Desert and its surrounding areas.
Start your day with a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes. The early wake-up is worth it to witness the desert bathed in golden light. After breakfast at the camp, you’ll return to Merzouga by camel.
You’ll have the option to explore more of the desert by 4×4, visiting nearby Berber villages and the Gnawa village of Khamlia, known for its traditional music. You’ll also visit fossil sites near Erfoud, where ancient marine life remains have been preserved in the rocks.
After your day of exploration, you’ll return to the camp for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation. The peacefulness of the desert offers a perfect opportunity to unwind and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
Overnight in the Berber camp
After breakfast, you’ll begin your journey toward the scenic Dades Gorges, passing through several fascinating regions along the way.
You’ll stop in the town of Rissani, known for its lively souks and historical significance as a former caravan hub. The journey then takes you through Erfoud, famous for its fossil quarries and date palms.
The next stop is the Todra Gorges, one of Morocco’s most impressive natural wonders. These towering cliffs rise up to 300 meters and create a dramatic canyon that is popular with rock climbers and hikers. You’ll have time to walk along the river and admire the beauty of this incredible gorge.
By evening, you’ll arrive in the Dades Gorges, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable guesthouse or hotel. This area is known for its unique rock formations and lush valley, offering a peaceful and scenic place to rest after a day of adventure.
On Day 5, you’ll continue your journey through the Dades Valley, also known as the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, as you head toward Ouarzazate.
One of the first stops is the Skoura Oasis, home to the famous Kasbah Amridil, a well-preserved kasbah that offers a glimpse into traditional Moroccan architecture and life in the desert.
Next, you’ll arrive in Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Desert” and the home of Atlas Film Studios, where many Hollywood films have been shot. You can visit the famous Kasbah Taourirt, a stunning historical site that once belonged to the powerful Glaoui family.
Overnight in Ouarzazate
On the sixth day, you’ll leave Ouarzazate and head toward Marrakech, crossing the dramatic High Atlas Mountains.
Before leaving the Ouarzazate region, you’ll visit the famous Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient fortified village is one of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks and has been used as a backdrop for many films and TV shows, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. You’ll have time to explore the ksar and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area.
The drive back to Marrakech takes you through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest road pass in Morocco. The winding roads offer breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains, with their rugged peaks, green valleys, and scattered Berber villages.
Overnight in Marrakech
Your final day is dedicated to exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech, also known as the Red City for its red sandstone buildings.
Start your day with a visit to the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech and a symbol of the city. You’ll then visit the Bahia Palace, a stunning example of Moroccan architecture, with its intricate tile work and lush gardens.
In the afternoon, explore the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the heart of Marrakech. The square is alive with street performers, musicians, snake charmers, and food vendors. From here, you can wander through the narrow streets of the medina, filled with souks selling everything from spices to handmade crafts.
End your day with a visit to the Majorelle Garden, a peaceful oasis created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The vibrant blue buildings and exotic plants make this one of the most popular attractions in Marrakech.
Overnight in Marrakech
This 7-day tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, adventure, and relaxation. From the ancient streets of Fes to the breathtaking landscapes of the Sahara Desert and the bustling souks of Marrakech, this itinerary allows you to experience the best that Morocco has to offer in just one week. Whether you’re riding camels through the dunes or exploring the historic kasbahs, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through one of the most fascinating countries in the world.