This 10 day Morocco itinerary tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the country’s highlights, including Casablanca, the high Atlas, the Sahara Desert, Middle Atlas, Fes, Marrakech, and Chefchaouen. The itinerary starts from Casablanca and spans through Marrakech, but it can really be done in any order as a loop.
The itinerary includes experiences like exploring ancient Medinas, camel rides in sand dunes, luxury desert camping, and market shopping. The tour ensures an authentic cultural experience, including savoring renowned Moroccan dishes and traditional mint tea.
Each destination is carefully selected to showcase Morocco’s diverse landscapes, bustling cities, and rich cultural history. You won’t want to miss a thing; you truly need at least 10 days to experience a bit of everything this country has to offer.
DO I NEED A VISA FOR MOROCCO?
Fortunately, numerous countries, including Australia, New Zealand, the USA, the UK, the EU, and Canada, grant their citizens a visa-free stay of up to 90 days. To embark on this hassle-free journey, a passport with at least six months’ validity and a confirmed onward or return ticket (supported by relevant documents) is all that you need.
It’s important to note that while a visa isn’t necessary for citizens of these countries, some may be required to secure an Electronic Authorization (AEVM) for entry into Morocco.
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN CASABLANCA, TRANSFER TO RABAT (Driving: 2 hours)
This is actually a 10 Day Morocco Itinerary that can be done with Morocco Travel 4×4, the company I recommend using for any organized adventures in the country. If you decide it’s too much to do on your own, you can book the whole 10 days as an organized tour, or you can book certain trips in a group. Use my promo code ADVENTURESNSUNSETS for a discount.
Casablanca
Welcome to Morocco! As you touch down in Casablanca, the vibrant commercial hub of Morocco, it’s time to hit the ground running. If you arrive earlier, try to carve out some time for a Casablanca City tour to get a quick overview of the vibe of the city and its beautiful coastline. Try to arrive as early as possible.
No matter what, though, you must make sure to check out the iconic Hassan II Mosque. Nestled in a stunning oceanfront setting, this architectural marvel boasts the world’s tallest minaret, soaring to a height of 690 feet (210 meters). While the exterior and surrounding landscapes are awe-inspiring, what sets this mosque apart is its unique accessibility to non-Muslims.
Embark on a tour to explore the intricate interior adorned with masterful craftsmanship, including hand-carved stone and wood, elaborate marble floor detailing, and ceilings adorned with gilded splendor. It’s the perfect welcome to Morocco’s incredible architecture and culture. In the afternoon, it’s time to head to Rabat.
Rabat
Rabat is one of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities and the present-day capital of Morocco, located in the northern region of the country. Once you arrive in Rabat, continue to explore. Start with the Chellah Necropolis with its medieval fortifications, showcasing Roman and Islamic ruins.
Traverse the old city center through the grand Kasbah des Oudaias and unwind in the peaceful Andalusian Gardens. Delve into the mystique of the Hassan Tower, a towering minaret and vestige of the unfinished 12th-century mosque, and the Mausoleum of Mohamed V, surrounded by about 200 columns. Have dinner in the old Medina of Rabat tonight.
Where to Stay in Rabat
Luxury Options (Riad/hotel): Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses, Riad Dar El Kebira, or Riad Kalaa 2
Mid-range Options (Riad/hotel): Riad Dar Zouhour, Riad Dar Karima, or Riad A La Belle Etoile
Standard options (Riad/hotel): Riad Zyo, Riad Dar El Ghali, Hotel Belere Rabat
DAY 2: TRANSFER TO CHEFCHAOUEN, EXPLORE THE BLUE CITY (Driving: 4 HOURS)
Today, journey four hours north to Chefchaouen in the Rif mountains. Unwind in this charming, centuries-old blue city with a relaxed atmosphere. Explore the historic medina‘s narrow streets, visit Plaza Outa el-Hammam, and discover the Grand Mosque and Kasbah.
Enjoy a meal, shop for traditional items, and ascend to the abandoned Spanish Mosque for a stunning sunset view over Chefchaouen and the mountains. Overnight and dinner in traditional Riad in Chefchaouen.
Where to Stay in Chefchaoen
Luxury Accommodation (Riad/hotel): La Petite Chefchaouen for rooftop views, Lina Ryad & Spa, or El Vancii Hotel
Mid-range Accommodation (Riad/hotel): Casa Hassan or Riad Hicham
Standard accommodation (Riad/hotel): Riad Asilah Chaouen or Riad Baraka (hotels or private room)
DAY 3: TRANSFER TO FES VIA VOLUBILIS & MEKNES (DRIVING: 3-5 HOURS)
Time for a full adventure day today, stopping at some lesser-known points of interest on the way to Fes. This day is best done with a tour or driving yourself, as on public transport you will not be able to make the stops. If you take a public bus, make sure to sign up for the tour to Volubilis and Meknes from Fes.
Volubilis
Volubilis, an UNESCO World Heritage Site near Meknes in northern Morocco, is a remarkable ancient Roman city. Renowned for being one of the best-preserved Roman-era monuments in North Africa, the expansive ruins are set amidst picturesque green fields.
Marvel at the impressive administrative buildings, palaces, and baths adorned with stunning mosaics. Following this, the trip to Meknes, one of the imperial cities, for a brief city tour and lunch.
Meknes
Meknes is the smaller, less busy version of Fes. Visit Meknes for an introduction to your second historic imperial city so far of the 10 Day Morocco Itinerary. The two main points of interest are the Ville Impériale (imperial city) and the Medina. Be sure to visit the Bab al-Mansour gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Royal Stables. Afterward, continue the journey to Fes for an overnight stay.
Where to Stay in Fes
Luxury accommodation (Riad/hotel): Palais Faraj Suites & Spa (best view), Riad Fes – Relais & Châteaux, or Riad Salam
Mid-range accommodation (Riad/hotel): Palais Houyam, Riad Dari, or Riad Sara
Standard accommodation (Riad/hotel): Riad Tahra (affordable and amazing), Riad Fez Yamanda
DAY 4 MOROCCO ITINERARY: FES SIGHTSEEING
Discover Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city with a history spanning over a millennium. Spend the day exploring the sights below or hire a guide – I recommend the cultural and handicraft tour, which sees most of the city. Start by navigating the pristine medinas of Fes el Bali and Fes el Jdid, alongside the modern Ville Nouvelle.
Start at Bab Boujloud gate, traverse the vibrant Talâa Kebira, explore the Chouara Tannery, marvel at Al Attarine Madrasa’s intricate tilework, and delve into the Mellah (the Jewish quarter). Time permitting, witness the architectural shift in Ville Nouvelle.
Visit the Bu Inanya Mosque, see the madrassas (Muslim universities), Nejarin Square, and the fountain. Let your guide unveil the history and culture during this adventure through Fes’ captivating streets. You will stop for lunch along the way and return to your riad dazzled by the sights and sounds.
DAY 5: SAHARA DESERT: MERZOUGA & ERG CHEBBI, OVERNIGHT AT A DESERT CAMP (Driving: 7-8 HOURS)
As the best part of your 10 day Morocco itinerary, it’s time to ventue into the desert! It’s finally time to capture some of the most amazing Sahara desert scenes you may have seen online before – but now you will truly be there in person! This trip through the desert usually takes 3 days from Fes to Marrakech through some of the country’s best scenery.
Your first stops from Fes should be the Ziz Valley Gorge, Cedar Trees, Ifrane, Azrou, and the Middle Atlas on your way to the Erg Chebbi dunes. After stopping for lunch in Midelt, continue along a fascinating road through beautiful scenery that provides excellent picture opportunities.
The next stop is at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes, where you will have the opportunity to ride a camel for two hours while watching the sun set at 250 meters. You must spend the night in a luxurious desert camp, where you will have a freshly made meal served beneath the stars for one of the most truly special experiences during your 10 days in Morocco.
There are tons ofoptional activities in this area for the adventurous souls, such as quad biking, camel riding, and sandboarding. Gather around the fire to play drums is a great way to unwind after supper.
Where to Stay in Merzouga, Sahara Desert
For a peaceful night in the Sahara Desert, it is recommended to stay overnight in a luxury camp or any of a few hotels in the area too. All provide epic experiences! Here are my top recommendations: Dihya Desert Camp and Ideal desert Camp.
DAY 6: FULL DAY TO EXPLORE THE SAHARA DESERT
After having breakfast at the camp or hotel, embark on an excursion in the dunes or more optional adventures. Following that, engage in a cultural experience by sharing a cup of tea with Nomads in the desert and observing their unique way of life. Proceed to Khamilia to savor a performance by the Gnaoua.
Upon arriving in the quaint village of Merzouga, nestled at the base of the white sand dunes, spend the afternoon on camel rides to the desert camp. The camps provide comfortable beds, individual showers, and toilets. As night falls, indulge in a Moroccan dinner, participate in drumming sessions around the fire, and immerse yourself in Berber songs in the desert. Additionally, marvel at the stars in the clear night sky.
DAY 7: MERZOUGA- RISSANI- TODRA GORGES- DADES VALLEY (Driving: 7-8 HOURS)
Spend the morning seeing the sunrise from your desert tent, and then hit the dunes on a rented sandboard to see how good you are (you can sign up with your tour or accommodation). After there, its time to head towards your next desert destination: the Dades Valley/Dades Gorge in the Atlas Mountains.
Travel duration is around 6.5 hours, but you may take your time enjoying a pit break in the market town of Rissani to see the cattle auction “donkey parking lot.” Once you pass the arid village of Tinghir, you will come to the Todra Gorge, which is 984 feet (300 meters) deep. You may take it easy on the shallow Todra River and explore the gorge at your own pace.
Continue your journey through the captivating village of Dades for an overnight stay. Enjoy dinner in the. village or hotel.
Where to Stay in Dades Valley
Luxury accommodation (Riad/hotel): Kasbah Hôtel Xaluca, Riad Rihana Dades (my personal fave), Auberge Chez Pierre
Mid-range accommodation (Riad/hotel): Riad Dades Paradis (amazing for the price)
Standard accommodation (Riad/hotel): Riad Gabsi or Auberge Babylon Dades
DAY 8: TRANSFER TO MARRAKESH VIA AÏT BENHADDOU & THE TIZI N’TICHKA PASS (Driving: 7-8 HOURS)
As dawn breaks over the Dades Valley, you’ll savor a hearty breakfast, fueling up for a day filled with cinematic landscapes and unique historical wonders on our final day in the Moroccan Desert.
Today we visit some of the most epic kasbahs and sights that seem like they are right out of a movie…. but actually, many of them are! Your journey begins with a drive to Ouarzazate, often dubbed the “Hollywood of Africa”.
Ouarzazate
This city has been the backdrop for numerous iconic films and TV series. As you explore Ouarzazate, you’ll be captivated by its beautiful kasbahs. A highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the cinema studios, where you can get a behind-the-scenes look at movie magic in the making.
From the cinematic allure of Ouarzazate, drive to the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou.
Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is believed to date from the 11th century, during a time when it held an important position along the trans-Saharan trade route between Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, and the southern desert. This location is popular with tourists as it was the backdrop for many episodes of Game of Thrones.
Afterwards, move to Marrakech through the highest Atlas Mountains, Tizi n’Tichka, at an altitude of 2260 m (3.5-4 hours excluding stops). Make photo stops along the way. This is one of the most picturesque roads in Morocco, which offers views of the green river valleys with adobe villages and the ruins of ancient kasbahs. Afterward, finally, head toward Marrakech.
Marrakech And Jemaa El-Fna
Finally, we have nearly closed the loop of our 10 day Morocco itinerary by landing in Marrakech! It’s been a long day, so check into your accommodation and walk through the main square to grab some food.
The main plaza, Jemaa El-Fna, is a kaleidoscope of activity in the early evening, with snake charmers, musicians, entertainers, games, and food vendors. Choose one of the several cafes around the area, get some food and mint tea, and settle back for a distant view of the show. Overnight in Marrakech for the final destintion on this 10 day Morocco Itinerary.
Where to Stay in Marrakech
Luxury accommodation (Riad/hotel): Riad Ksar Kasbah (stunning and luxe yet more affordable), Riad Almaha, Riad Kasbah (highly recommemd), Hotel & Ryad Art Place Marrakech, or Riad Palais Sebban
Mid-range accommodation (Riad/hotel): Riad Dar Ten (amazing value), or Riad Alwane
Standard accommodation (Riad/hotel): Riad BB Marrakech, Riad Tassili Marrakech, Riad Bahia Salam
DAY 9 MOROCCO ITINERARY: EXPLORE MARRAKECH
The “Pearl of the South,” and its historical sites will be the focus of a full day of exploration after breakfast at the hotel. The city’s abundance of museums and historical landmarks is a result of its status as one of the Moroccan kingdom’s capitals during the rule of the three sultan dynasties. Every one of the city’s monuments is an artistic creation.
The Koutoubia Mosque, the Menara Pavilion with its olive groves, the graves of the Saadian sultans, the Bahia Palace—a magnificent example of palace architecture, El Badii palace, Majorelle Gardens, and the rest of the morning will be spent seeing these sites.
After lunch, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the vibrant Jemaa El Fna square again, the most vibrant market in Morocco. Come witness snake charmers, healers, sorcerers, fruit vendors, and exotic spice merchants at this open-air theater. Overnight in traditional Riad – because why not?
DAY 10: TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT (MARRAKECH OR CASABLANCA) (Driving: 1-3 HOURS)
While a departure from Marrakech would be ideal, you can certainly arrange a departure from Casablanca as well – the transfer back to the beginning of this 10 day Morocco Itinerary is only 3 hours.
Again, a tour just like this (or tours of varying lengths) is available with Morocco Travel 4×4 – check them out if you would like everything organized for you from top to bottom, and not have to worry about a thing from accommodation to transport. They are newer, but are a trustworthy local team with al the insider knowledge.
Check out their reviews on Tripadvisor and use my discount code ADVENTURESNSUNSETS for the best discount of the moment. Most of all, enjoy your 10 days in Morocco – we’re sure you’ll end up wanting to stay longer!
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Passionate, full-time travel blogger with over 230k on social media and 150kMPV blog. Extraordinary photographer with two DSLR's + a drone with a love for capturing candid moments, epic drone shots, and magical compositions. I'm a natural-born content creator originally from California, but I've been on the road for 9 years living, working, traveling, blogging, and photographing my way around the world. I recommend the most amazingly adventurous and unique + boutique travel experiences/stays and helpful products to my audience and write comprehensive guides on my website that have helped millions of travelers so far. I love to inspire people to plan their dream trips, and many readers have given feedback as such. The reach on my platforms continues to soar, especially when combining cutting-edge social content with optimized articles on my high-authority website.