8 days Morocco tour from Marrakech to Fes and Chefchaouen

Your journey begins with your arrival in Marrakech, a city that bursts with color, sound, and life. After being greeted at the airport, you will be transferred to your riad, located within the historic Medina. Depending on your arrival time, you may take your first stroll through the winding streets, where every corner reveals a new surprise — from spice shops filled with vibrant colors to artisans working in small workshops. In the evening, head to the iconic Jemaa el-Fna square, where the atmosphere is electrifying. Storytellers, musicians, snake charmers, and food stalls fill the square with energy, offering a true taste of Morocco’s cultural soul. Overnight in a charming riad where you can relax and prepare for the days ahead.

After breakfast, you will enjoy a full-day guided exploration of Marrakech, known as the “Red City” for its terracotta-colored walls. With your local guide, start by visiting the peaceful Majorelle Garden, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, where exotic plants and vibrant blue walls create an oasis in the city. Continue to the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest in Marrakech, with its elegant minaret dominating the skyline. Step inside the Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture with ornate ceilings, tiled courtyards, and lush gardens, before visiting the historic Saadian Tombs, where members of the Saadian dynasty rest. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the souks, where the scent of spices, the glow of lanterns, and the variety of handwoven carpets and leather goods create an unforgettable sensory experience. End the day back at Jemaa el-Fna, watching the square come alive as night falls. Overnight in Marrakech.

Your desert adventure begins with an early departure from Marrakech as you cross the High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka pass, which reaches 2,260 meters above sea level. The winding road offers stunning views of terraced farms, Berber villages clinging to the hillsides, and snow-capped peaks in the distance during winter. Along the way, you will stop at the famous Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a true jewel of Moroccan architecture. This ancient ksar, made of clay and stone, has been the backdrop for countless films such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After exploring the labyrinthine passageways, you continue to Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Hollywood of Africa” due to its film studios and dramatic scenery. In the afternoon, your journey leads through the Valley of Roses, known for its fragrant fields and local rosewater production, before finally reaching the majestic Dades Gorges. Here, winding roads, red cliffs, and the famous “Monkey Fingers” rock formations create a dramatic landscape. You will spend the evening in a traditional guesthouse, enjoying dinner and the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

This morning, after breakfast in your guesthouse, you will set off towards one of Morocco’s most stunning natural wonders, the Todra Gorge. Towering cliffs rise almost 300 meters on either side of a narrow valley, and a gentle river runs through the base, making it a paradise for climbers, photographers, and nature lovers alike. After a leisurely walk through the gorge, you will continue your journey southward, passing through palm groves and traditional Berber towns until reaching Erfoud, a town known for its fascinating fossil workshops. By late afternoon, you will arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Here, your camel caravan will be waiting to take you across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. As you ride into the desert, the shifting sands glow under the setting sun, offering one of the most magical experiences of your journey. At your luxury desert camp, you will be welcomed with mint tea before enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars. The night continues with Berber music by the fire, as you fall asleep in the quiet serenity of the desert.

Wake early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, a truly unforgettable moment. After breakfast at the camp, ride camels or return by 4x4 to the village of Merzouga. From here, begin your long but scenic journey north towards Fes. The route passes through the lush Ziz Valley, a ribbon of green dotted with countless palm trees and fortified kasbahs. Stop for photos before crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains, where the scenery shifts dramatically to cedar forests and alpine-style landscapes. You will pause in Midelt for lunch, then continue towards Azrou, where you may encounter Barbary apes in the cedar forests. A stop in Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its clean streets and European-style houses, provides a refreshing change of scenery. By evening, you will arrive in Fes, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco, and settle into your riad.

After breakfast, spend the day exploring Fes el-Bali, the oldest and most authentic Medina in Morocco, with the help of a knowledgeable local guide. Entering its gates feels like stepping back in time, as the narrow alleys are filled with traditional workshops, ancient madrasas, and vibrant souks. Visit the Al Quaraouiyine University, considered the oldest operating university in the world, along with the stunning Bou Inania Madrasa and the Nejjarine Fountain. A highlight of the day will be the Chouara Tanneries, where colorful vats are used to dye leather by hand, a technique unchanged for centuries. Wander through different artisan quarters where craftsmen create pottery, brassware, and intricate textiles. In the afternoon, climb to a viewpoint overlooking the Medina for a panoramic view of the sprawling city. Return to your riad for dinner and overnight in Fes.

After breakfast, leave the bustling Medina of Fes behind and head north through the scenic Rif Mountains. The winding roads and green hills eventually bring you to Chefchaouen, Morocco’s famous “Blue Pearl.” This enchanting town, nestled at the foot of the Rif Mountains, is known for its blue-washed streets and houses, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Spend the afternoon wandering through its peaceful alleys, where every corner is a picture-perfect moment. Visit the Kasbah in the main square, enjoy a coffee or mint tea while watching local life, and simply soak in the relaxed pace of this unique town. Overnight in a charming riad in Chefchaouen.

On your final day, depart from Chefchaouen and journey south towards Rabat, the political capital of Morocco. Here, you will visit landmarks such as the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Continue your journey to Casablanca, where a stop at the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, allows you to admire its oceanfront location and remarkable craftsmanship. In the evening, you will arrive back in Marrakech, where your 8-day Moroccan adventure concludes, leaving you with lasting memories of deserts, mountains, cities, and the charm of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and culture.