8 Days Morocco Tour from Marrakech

Discover the Best of Morocco on an 8-Day Journey

Embark on a comprehensive 8-day tour of Morocco, starting in the vibrant city of Marrakech and exploring the country’s most iconic destinations. From the bustling souks and palaces of Marrakech to the towering dunes of the Sahara Desert, this itinerary offers an immersive experience in Moroccan culture, history, and natural beauty. This Essential Morocco Tour takes you to the heart of the country, highlighting the diverse landscapes and rich heritage that make Morocco an unforgettable travel destination.

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech – Exploring the Red City

Your Moroccan adventure begins in the dynamic city of Marrakech, known as the Red City due to the hue of its walls and buildings. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel or riad.

Jemaa el-Fnaa Square and the Medina

Spend your first evening exploring Jemaa el-Fnaa, the lively square at the heart of Marrakech. Here, you’ll find snake charmers, musicians, storytellers, and food stalls offering everything from freshly squeezed orange juice to grilled meats. The nearby medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with souks selling traditional Moroccan goods, including carpets, spices, and leather products.

Overnight in Marrakech

Day 2: Marrakech City Tour – Palaces, Gardens, and Mosques

On your second day, dive deep into Marrakech’s rich history and culture with a guided city tour.

The Koutoubia Mosque and Bahia Palace

Start your day with a visit to the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech and an iconic symbol of the city. Although non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, its towering minaret can be admired from afar. Next, head to the stunning Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture with its intricately designed courtyards and rooms.

Majorelle Garden and Saadian Tombs

In the afternoon, visit the Majorelle Garden, a tranquil oasis created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The vibrant blue buildings and lush greenery make it a popular spot for visitors. End your day with a visit to the Saadian Tombs, the final resting place of members of the Saadian dynasty, known for their elaborate decoration.

Overnight in Marrakech

Day 3: Marrakech to Dades Valley – Crossing the High Atlas Mountains

After breakfast, you’ll leave Marrakech and begin your journey through the High Atlas Mountains.

Tizi n’Tichka Pass and Ait Benhaddou

The drive takes you through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, Morocco’s highest mountain pass, offering stunning views of valleys and peaks. Along the way, you’ll stop at the famous Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar known for its traditional earthen architecture and its role as a backdrop in numerous films, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

Ouarzazate and Skoura Oasis

Continue to Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Desert,” where you can visit the Kasbah Taourirt and the Atlas Film Studios. Further along the road, you’ll pass through the Skoura Oasis, known for its palm groves and historic kasbahs, before arriving at the Dades Valley, where you’ll spend the night.

Overnight in Dades Valley

Day 4: Dades Valley to Merzouga – Into the Sahara Desert

After a hearty breakfast, the tour continues towards the Sahara Desert, with a stop at the impressive Todra Gorges.

Todra Gorges: A Geological Marvel

The Todra Gorges are one of Morocco’s most spectacular natural wonders, with towering cliffs reaching up to 300 meters high. Take a walk along the river that runs through the gorge and enjoy the serene atmosphere before continuing your journey towards the desert.

Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi Dunes

In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, you’ll embark on a camel trek into the Sahara Desert, riding through the vast dunes as the sun sets. The experience of riding camels through the golden sand dunes, surrounded by the peacefulness of the desert, is a highlight of any trip to Morocco.

Overnight in a Berber Desert Camp

You’ll spend the night in a traditional Berber camp, where you’ll enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner under the stars. The evening often includes Berber music and storytelling around the campfire, providing a deep connection to the desert culture.

Day 5: Merzouga to Fes – Crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains

Rise early to witness the magnificent sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast in the camp.

Rissani and Ziz Valley

On your way to Fes, you’ll pass through the ancient town of Rissani, known for its vibrant market and historical significance as a former caravan center. The journey continues through the lush Ziz Valley, an oasis lined with date palms and traditional villages, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding desert.

Midelt and the Middle Atlas Mountains

The tour continues through the Middle Atlas Mountains, with a stop in Midelt, a town famous for its apple orchards and cool mountain climate. The scenery here is a mix of rugged mountains, cedar forests, and rolling hills, providing a refreshing change from the arid desert landscape.

Overnight in Fes

Day 6: Fes City Tour – Exploring Morocco’s Cultural Capital

Fes is one of the oldest and most culturally significant cities in Morocco. A full-day guided tour will introduce you to its rich history, architecture, and vibrant culture.

Fes el-Bali and Al Quaraouiyine University

Start your day by exploring the medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest car-free urban area in the world. The narrow alleyways are filled with bustling souks, mosques, and madrasas. Don’t miss a visit to Al Quaraouiyine University, the oldest continuously operating university in the world, founded in 859 AD.

The Royal Palace and Mellah

In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Royal Palace with its stunning golden gates, followed by a tour of the Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter of Fes.

Overnight in Fes

Day 7: Fes to Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl of Morocco

After breakfast, you’ll leave Fes and head north to the picturesque town of Chefchaouen, located in the Rif Mountains.

Chefchaouen: A Photographer’s Paradise

Chefchaouen is known for its blue-washed buildings, which create a stunning visual contrast against the surrounding mountains. Spend the afternoon wandering through the town’s narrow streets, visiting local craft shops, and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. Chefchaouen is a favorite destination for photographers, with every corner offering a new and beautiful perspective.

Overnight in Chefchaouen

Day 8: Chefchaouen to Marrakech – The Return Journey

On the final day of your tour, you’ll make your way back to Marrakech, with stops along the way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Moroccan countryside. You’ll arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon, bringing your 8-day Essential Morocco Tour to a close.