9 Days Morocco Itinerary From Casablanca

After a restful night and a flavorful breakfast at your hotel, Traverse Morocco team picks you and sits off on a 4 hours journey through the enchanting Rif villages again, proceeding towards Volubilis, once a roman city. 

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate hopping out of bed early to take photos of empty and picturesque streets before enjoying their private transfer in a comfortable vehicle toward Fes.

Roman ruins of Volubilis, one of the best-preserved Roman archaeological sites in North Africa, that was once the administrative center of the Roman Empire in the region.The site is renowned for its well-preserved ruins, including Roman roads, grand columns, and stunning mosaics. Here you have a chance to explore this ancient roman city that dates back to the 3rd century before we continue our path to the imperial city of Meknes.

After a delightful lunch, you’ll delve into the heart’s Meknes ancient medina. It was once the capital of Morocco under the rule of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century. Pause at the ancient Bab Mansour, one of the most beautiful and grand gates in Morocco, known for its intricate tilework and impressive size. This truly masterpiece faces Place El Hedim, a lively square that is often compared to the famous Jemaa el-Fna in Marrakech, offering a bustling atmosphere with street vendors, musicians, and performers. The journey also takes us to the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, The resting place of the famous Sultan Moulay Ismail, who transformed Meknes into a powerful imperial city.

After a day filled with exploration and historical immersion at Meknes and Volubilis, the drive then takes us to Fes medina where a charming Riad ‘guest house’ welcomes you for a peaceful night’s rest. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere, reminiscing about the day’s enchanting moments and anticipating the marvels yet to come.

Today’s driving distance: Approximately 196 Km / 121 miles

Today’s driving time: Approximately 3 hr 36 min

Today, get ready for a remarkable day as you take a guided tour of Fes el-Bali (Old Medina), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. where every corner tells a story and holds you in awe. After breaking your fast, our official local guide takes us to explore the imperial city of Fes, which is the oldest city in Morocco that only a Moroccan guide will know. Fes is divided into 3 sections, Royal Palace, New ville, and Fes El Bali.

The impressive journey starts at the Royal Place also known as Dar al-Makhzen,  is one of the most significant and stunning landmarks in Fes that dates back to the 13th century and was expanded and renovated during the reign of Sultan Mohammed V in the 1950s. It has been the seat of Moroccan royalty for centuries and symbolizes the historical significance and grandeur of Morocco’s monarchy. 

Later on, pass by the Mallah, the old Jewish quarter of Fes and is one of the city’s most important historical sites. On your way to the entrance of the medina break off in a panoramic view overlooking the vibrant city of Fes and in a pottery factory, witnessing the entire process of ceramic production, from shaping the clay to glazing and painting the pieces.These ceramics, characterized by their geometric patterns and bright colors, which adorn palaces, mosques, and fountains across the country.

Next step up into the medieval city of Fes, following your expert guide’s paths to the Chouara Tannery, offering a glimpse into an ancient craft that has been practiced for centuries and producing high-quality leather ever since.  From there venture through the narrow labyrinthine streets towards the iconic landmarks while observing the artisans around. Discover Al-Qarawiyyin University, considered as the oldest school in the world. The Al-Attarine Madrasa and Nejjarine Fountain are also sights to behold.

Finally, you will be picked by your driver and drive you either to your hotel directly or pass by the new Fes prior to. End your day relaxing in your Riad terrance sipping a cup of mint, as the day draws to a close and the city comes alive. Prepare to be dazzled by the breathtaking views over the vibrant Medina.

After an early breakfast, we set off on an extraordinary road trip as we travel from Fes to the wild Sahara Desert of Merzouga. Admire the scenic drive while we traverse the Mid Atlas Mountains to approach the alpine town of Ifrane , known locally as the ‘Switzerland of Morocco’ because of alpine–style architecture and ski resort slopes. Your driver will stop to take a peaceful walk in the national park where a well–known landmark, a stone statue of a lion is nearby.

Next, drive further through the mystical Cedar Forest nestled amidst the Mountains. Here, you’ll have a chance to observe the barbary apes in their native habitat and people enjoying their preferred sport, skiing around during the snow season (February).

Afterwards, we recommence our journey, traversing the High Atlas Mountains towards Errachidia city. You’ll notice how the scenery changes to reveal hints of the desert as you approach the charming Ziz Valley. Momentarily, we stop at the lush date palm tree oasis, appreciating the natural landscape. Lunch will be served at your leisure.

Finally, arrive at the sensational Merzouga desert in the afternoon, an extensive sea of sand dunes covering the area and surrounded by hamadas. Never stationary, the massive dunes shift and travel depending on the changing wind! As the sun cools off, switch gears to an authentic caravan lead by a well experienced Berber man. Across the majestic golden sand Erg Chebbi dunes, Your friendly camel leader will stop in a quiet high dunes, ensuring that it’s a remarkable place to enjoy the sunset.

As the twilight falls, you’ll be accompanied to your luxury camp surrounded by the sand dunes. Enjoy the hospitality of the Berber nomads welcoming you by a cup of fresh mint tea. Check into your ensuite tent equipped with a private bathroom. After dinner at the camp, gather around the bonfire to entertain yourself by some live music under the blanket stars where the desert vibes come alive.

Today’s driving distance: Approximately 460 Km / 285 Miles

Today’s driving time: Approximately 7 h 10 minutes

Be an early bird again today for a horizon, witnessing the sunrise over the dunes and enjoy a tasty Berber breakfast at the camp. Then, choose between a camel ride or a 4WD vehicle to get back to the Merzouga village. If you have enough camel ride experience a 4×4 would be the best fun choice.

Enjoy a private transfer to Boumalne Dades. Along the way, you’ll stop to explore Rissani, which was a home to the first Alaouite ruler, Moulay Rachid. The current ruling Alaouite dynasty of Morocco. This town is known for its traditional caravan market. The market comes alive on busy days, Tuesday, thursday and sunday. Wander its lively souk and  visit a 17th century ksar.

Continue making our way to the oasis of Tinghir for lunch. The real attraction here is the Todra Gorge,  a deep ravine carved by the Todra valley over millennia. Leisurely, walk beneath the 300 meters cliff where climbers come to enjoy their preferred sport. Every step you take reveals breathtaking sights that will leave you in awe.

Afterwards, head to Boumalne Dades, venturing along the mesmerizing valley to reach Dades Gorge. A natural rust-red and mauve mountains stripped back to zigzagging layers of strata and knobbly rock formations. Monkey paws, as the locals call it.

Later, as you check–in to your hotel besides the Dades Valley. Provides guests an ultimate relaxing stay in nature. Followed by a mouthwatering dinner, savoring the flavors of Moroccan cuisine.

Today’s driving distance: Approximately 246 Km / 152 Miles

Today’s driving time: Approximately 3 h 44 minutes

Journey along the edge of the High Atlas range today, heading to the fertile  Ait Ben Haddou village while we make stops along the fabled “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” an ancient caravan route that weaves between oasis towns and adobe fortresses.

 Stop at Kalaat M’Gouna in the fertile Valley of the Roses, where thousands of roses bloom in the spring ‘Damask roses’. Every year, this rose town celebrates the Festival of Roses, usually held in May. This festival marks the harvest of the roses and attracts thousands of visitors, including tourists and locals alike.

From the rose valley in Kalaat M’Gouna to the bustling city of Marrakech, there is something for everyone as usual. The diversity of this southeast part of Morocco is evident when traveling through country areas, the sprawling oasis and laneways city of Ouarzazate. Known as the Hollywood Of Africa, where numerous blockbuster movies, such as Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator were filmed.

Arriving at the World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou for lunch, most of the restaurants serve only simple Moroccan food but it can be served elsewhere based on your preferences. Onila river offers a spectacular view overlooking the rammed clay Kasbah. Wander through 12th century walls before we leave for Marrakech. A plenty of famed movies were filmed at this Kasbah as well, such as Game Of Thrones, Indiana Jones, Gladiator and much more.

Cross the High Atlas Mountains towards your charming Riad in Medina’s heart, enjoying dramatic mountain scenery and views of typical Amazigh, or Berber, villages. Arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon, enjoy time to relax before dinner at the hotel or at a restaurant in the vibrant square.

Today’s driving distance: Approximately 313 Km / 194 Miles

Today’s driving time: Approximately 5 hrs

After a full stomach with a delectable breakfast, your local guide meets you and takes you on a guided tour to visit the city’s historic sites this morning, viewing the Koutoubia Mosque and its distinctive 282-foot minaret, the Jemaa El Fna which includes collection of food stalls, snake charmers that would turn alive later.

Continue your walking tour through the narrow alleyways of the medina and souks. Stop at the Koranic school Ben Youssef Madrasa, Dar el Bacha, Bahia Palace and El Badi Palace which include a collection of artifacts and pieces surrounding Moroccan crafts and heritage, and where the Andalusian and Arab architecture embrace a treasure.

Optionally, in the afternoon you’ll have a chance to visit the instagrammable Majorelle Garden, which consists of a Berber Museum and corners with colorful spots for fabulous photos. Later, we will accompany you back to your Riad or spend the rest of your day chilling out at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the lively Jemaa El Fna Square.