Morocco Itinerary 11 Days

Every morning is a reminder to let go the past and embrace the present! Rise early to feed your eyes with the charming views as the sun shines over the blue pearl while feeding your stomach with a delicious breakfast. 

When was the last time you got lost? Lost in fun. Lost in culture. Lost in the beauty of nature. You certainly will get lost (in the best way) when you step out of your hotel and through the small narrow streets of Chefchaouen.

Chefchaouen is a very small city that never anyone thought of. Make sure you bring your camera with you or a cell phone for numerous fabulous photos. As you wander from street to street exploring extravagant customs. Every step you take or turn you make will truly let you be in awe.

Visit the Kasbah besides the square in the button of the city that would be activated in the late afternoon, and the flavor of Moroccan cuisine is pleasant. Sip a cup of warm mint tea before you venture back towards your hotel to refresh.

After a therapeutic bath, venture on an invigorating hike up to the Spanish Mosque to ponder the beauty of the city lying on the Rif Mountains. Back to the heart of the medina, a gorgeous retreat where you can take some time to reflect on your trip so far.

An early meal at the dining room of  your hotel, then commence your affordable  journey towards Fes, making stops along the way to visit Volubilis, which was once a Roman city, and walk through the spectacular ancient small medina of Meknes.

Grab your ticket and lose yourself embracing the Roman ruins of Volubilis, once a center of the olive oil trade and now home to impressive mosaics and a well-preserved triumphal arch.

After having a feast in a traditional restaurant, we will continue to the heart’s Meknes medina. The 3rd imperial city after Fes and Marrakech and before Rabat, where you’ll see the intricate Bab el Mansour gateway and venture into a maze of archways at the 18th-century imperial stables. Also, the underground prison of Qara and the mausoleum of Moulay Ismail involve a glimpse that will amaze you.

Later on, we recommence our drive to our final destination of today Fes. On our way, and if time permits you’ll have the option to stop in a vineyard in the countryside of Meknes. Here you can end your day with a wine tasting tour before settling in your riad in Fes medina.

Arrive in Fes city in the late afternoon and check into your decorated room for a restful night’s stay. Relax in the serene atmosphere of your riad, reminiscing about the day’s unforgettable moments and anticipating the marvels still to come.

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

Today’s driving time: Approximately 3 hr 36 min

This morning, after a relaxed night and breakfast. Knowledgeable local guide invites you to be familiar with the city while exploring its must see sights and hidden gems. Prepare to be amazed by the intricate architectural details and the stories they hold.

The first attraction will be the Royal Palace, featuring stunning intricately designed gates, with the most famous being the golden gate of the palace. Also considered a magnificent example of Moroccan architecture in Fes.

Continuing our exploration, we’ll escort you through the narrow alleyways of a UNESCO World Heritage Medina. As you step into the medina, the sights, sounds, and smells immediately envelop you. Stop at Chouara Tannery, one of the oldest in the world that’s still alive for now. Learn about the ancient process of leather tanning, passed down through generations.

After lunch, we will head to the Attarine Madrasa and the majestic Al-Qarawiyyin University,often considered the oldest continuously operating university in the world. From there, you’ll have a pick up choice by your driver or walk back to your hotel through the alleyways surrounded by local shops.

The luxurious simplicity of the Riad, offers the perfect way to unwind after an exciting day of guided discovery. the riad is a place to recharge both body and mind.

Embarking on a road trip from Fes to Merzouga takes you through Morocco’s ever-changing landscapes, offering a journey rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. Your adventure begins with an early departure from Fes, heading toward the Middle Atlas Mountains. As you leave the city behind, the terrain quickly shifts to rolling hills and lush forests.

The first notable stop is the picturesque town of Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its Alpine-style architecture and fresh climate. Nearby, we reach the Cedar Forest, where you can take a short walk and marvel at the towering cedar trees. These ancient trees are home to Barbary apes, and you may spot a few as you stroll through the tranquil forest. 

After soaking in the serene atmosphere, the journey continues through the picturesque Midelt region, known for its charming Berber villages. a small town nestled between the Middle Atlas and the High Atlas mountains. Here, you’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor hearty Moroccan dishes like a flavorful tagine or couscous, replenishing your energy for the next leg of the journey.

Driving onward, you pass through the beautiful Tizi n’Talremt pass before arriving in Ziz Valley, an oasis of green date palm glove. Here, you’ll stop for a photo break. The landscape begins to shift as you move closer to the desert, passing through Erfoud, a town known for its fossils, before reaching the stunning sand dunes of Erg Chebbi.

Upon arrival in Merzouga desert, you’ll leave the vehicle behind and embark on a camel trek into the desert as the sun begins to set. Riding atop your camel, you’ll traverse the vast golden dunes, feeling the tranquility of the Sahara all around you. The evening light casts a warm glow on the dunes, creating an unforgettable moment of serenity. After your phone’s gallery is full with some sunset photos, you arrive at a traditional desert camp nestled in the heart of the dunes. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, followed by some traditional songs around an openfire played by locals under the star-filled sky.

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

Today’s driving time: Approximately 7 h 10 minutes

Each sunrise brings a promise of new joy’’ After having a fantastic time and breakfast at the camp, we’ll Embark on a scenic trip from Merzouga Desert to Boumalne Dades. Experience the beauty and contrasts of Morocco’s landscapes, from the vast Sahara dunes to the dramatic mountain valleys.

After a short drive we will reach Rissani, an ancient town known for its lively market and tons of Ksour and kasbahs. Take a brief stop here to explore the local souks, where you can find traditional crafts, spices, and freshly baked Berber Pizza, and perhaps visit one of those fortified ksour with a rich history.

Next, head westward towards Tinghir. The road begins to wind as you approach Todra Gorge, the impressive cliffs that soar to over 300 meters high (984ft), creating a narrow, awe-inspiring passage. Later, we will drive back along. The surrounding Todra Valley is equally beautiful, with lush palm groves and small rammed clay Berber villages scattered along the route.

Continuing from Tinghir, you’ll drive towards Boumalne Dades, a picturesque town nestled in Dades Valley. The journey becomes even more scenic as we drive along the valley, with stunning views of the river, green pastures, and towering mountains in the distance. Here, you’ll be amazed by its impressive natural rock formation, often referred to as the Monkey paws.

After all, check into your cozy hotel overlooking the valley. Here you’ll take your time to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, perhaps take a short stroll downward the valley to witness traditional Berber life.

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

Today’s driving time: Approximately 3 h 44 minutes

As the sun shines brightly over the valley, we’ll have breakfast then set off on a lifetime journey towards the vibrant city of Marrakech. The drive spans 6 hours and takes us through some of Morocco’s most captivating landscapes, with a blend of historical landmarks, picturesque villages, and dramatic capped snow mountain scenery.

Our first will be in Rose Valley in Kalaat M’Gouna known as the Rose Town, and famous for its vibrant rose products, particularly during the annual rose festival. As we drive along the valley, take a moment to appreciate the blooming roses in the fields surrounding the area, which fill the air with a sweet fragrance. You can stop by local cooperatives to shop for rosewater, essential oils, and soaps. Somehow, you’ll be smelling the roses the whole trip.

Continuing through the road of thousand kasbahs to reach Ouarzazate known as the “Hollywood of Africa” for its role in hosting many film productions. The town is home to the famous Atlas Studios, one of the largest movie studios in the world,where films like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia were filmed. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Atlas Studio.

Next, head toward the dramatic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a picturesque UNESCO-listed kasbah that stands as a testament to the region’s ancient architecture. This fortified village, with its towering mud-brick walls, has appeared in countless films and TV shows. Such as Game of thrones, indiana jones, kingdom of heaven and much more.

After lunch, the route leads us through the winding roads of the High Atlas Mountains. The landscape here is breathtaking, with dramatic, rugged peaks and deep valleys. The mountain roads offer stunning views, so take your time to stop and admire the scenery.

In the late afternoon we will arrive at our Riad in Marrakech, where you can unwind after a day of exploration. The Riad offers a peaceful retreat, with traditional Moroccan decor, a courtyard garden, and a delicious home-cooked meal to end your adventure in one of Morocco’s most fascinating cities.

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

Today’s driving time: Approximately 5 hrs