From the Atlas Mountains’ rugged peaks to the Sahara Desert’s vast expanse, Morocco’s fascinating landscapes unfold like a storybook. Ancient cities beckon with labyrinthine medinas, historic kasbahs and exotic souks. Think colourful Berber rugs, exquisite metalwork, aromatic tagines and soul-stirring music. It is a land of unfamiliar sights, sounds, and flavours. Imposing fortresses guard the secrets of the past. Riads entice with vibrant tiled courtyards and gurgling fountains. Berber villages cling to steep slopes, and camel caravans traverse the golden sands at sunrise and sunset. From trekking through mountain trails to tracing echoes of the past and relaxing in traditional hammams, Morocco offers a truly immersive experience. This meticulously crafted Morocco itinerary promises an unforgettable journey, where each moment is an opportunity to step back in time and embrace the vibrancy of the country’s culture over 11 days.
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Best time to visit Morocco
You can expect the most pleasant weather in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). With moderate temperatures and less rainfall, these two seasons are ideal for exploring cities like Marrakech and Fes and the great wide outdoors of the Atlas Mountains. Those keen on the Sahara Desert should plan a trip during the cooler months of October to April. Summers in the desert are unforgiving. Coastal areas like Essaouira are enjoyable all year round and tend to be crowded in the summer months. Plan the time to travel depending on your Morocco itinerary.
Morocco itinerary days 1-2: Tangier and Chefchaouen
Say hello to your mystical Moroccan adventure in Tangier, located on the Strait of Gibraltar in the country’s north. Step into a historic yet cosmopolitan port city where the Mediterranean and Atlantic waters converge. Explore the picturesque markets of the Medina, decked with colourful staircases, bougainvillea-draped walls and vibrant artisanal stores. Savour a leisurely Moroccan meal of tagine or couscous in a traditional restaurant. More wanderings later, swoon over the panorama from the Kasbah and end up at Corniche, the snazzy 5-kilometre beachfront promenade. One of the most epic experiences of your Morocco itinerary would be to sip mint tea at Café Hafa. Back in the day, this used to be a haunt for literary geniuses like Paul Bowles and legendary artists like Henri Matisse. Are you Inspired already?
On day 2, prepare to travel to Chefchaouen, Morocco’s “Blue Pearl”. Hours flit as you walk through the picturesque streets of the Medina with a backdrop of vibrant hues, interrupted by the urge to buy local handicrafts at charming shops. For those who seek a deeper dive into culture, the displays of the well-curated Kasbah Museum will be a satisfying distraction. How about a hike to the Spanish Mosque for the promise of 360-degree views of the town and surrounding mountains? Retire for the night at a traditional riad with stunning views of the Rif Mountains.
Days 3-4: Fes and Meknes
Arrive in Fes on day 3 of your Morocco itinerary. The best place to introduce yourself to the spiritual and cultural heart of the country is Fes el-Bali. This UNESCO World Heritage site has earned the distinction of being the world’s largest pedestrian urban area. An important landmark to pin to your Moroccan itinerary in Fes is the Bou Inania Madrasa, an architectural gem of intricate tile-work and carved wood. The Al Quaraouiyine University considered the world’s oldest existing, continually operating educational institution, is another must-visit spot. After lunch, look forward to seeing the process of traditional leather-making at the Chouara Tannery. Stoke your love for photography against the vibrant vats of tannery dye and fire up your Instagram feed. Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter, and the Ibn Danan Synagogue are great places to learn about the rich Jewish heritage of the region. Those with a culinary flair can enrol in a Moroccan cooking class to amp up their kitchen skills.
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Reserve day 4 of your Morocco itinerary for a trip to the imperial city of Meknes, known for striking sights like the Bab Mansour gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Royal Stables. Not far is the ancient city of Volubilis, set amidst rolling hills and olive groves. You will find yourself flashbacking to Berber-Roman times as you explore the ruins of grand residences, public hammams, triumphal arches, and parliament buildings.
Book your stay at Dar Seffarine via Booking.com
Book your stay at Dar Seffarine via Agoda.com
Morocco itinerary days 5-6: Middle Atlas and Merzouga
It is time for a much-awaited expedition to the Middle Atlas Mountains on day 5. Cross the Berber town of Azrou, known for its handicrafts and woodwork for a night halt in Midelt, a small town wedged between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. On day 6 of your Morocco itinerary, continue the journey towards the Sahara Desert, passing through the lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs of the Ziz Valley. Your next port of call is Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Channel your inner sheikh at the desert camp and prepare for a camel trek into the endless sea of dunes. Magical sunset over the Sahara, Berber dinner under the stars, a mesmerising belly dancing show and storytelling around the campfire. It is a Moroccan Night’s dream come true.
Days 7-8: Dades Valley, Ait Benhaddou, and Ouarzazate
The journey continues into the dramatic Dades Valley on day 7, studded with rugged wadi gorges, towering mountains, lush vegetation, and winding rivers. The afternoon will be well spent exploring the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs”. Look forward to seeing Todra Gorge, a canyon with a towering rock face. Adventure buffs can bump up the adrenaline factor in their Morocco itinerary with a three-and-a-half-hour trek along the Dades that ends at the Aït Oudinar village.
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On day 8, you will reach Ait Benhaddou, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its Moroccan earthen clay architecture. The quaint village along the Ounila River in the High Atlas Mountains has been featured in movies like Gladiator and the famous Game of Thrones series. Discover the six distinct fortresses connected by winding narrow streets and covered pathways. Ahead, at the caramel-coloured oasis of Ouarzazate, ponder over the time when caravans laden with spices, gold, and stories trudged along rugged paths. Let the harmonious blend of African, Jewish, Arabic, and European cultures make a home in your heart as you call it a day.
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Morocco itinerary days 9-11: Marrakesh
Drive through the High Atlas Mountains, staring at the raw beauty of the landscape to arrive in Marrakech on day 9 of your Morocco itinerary. The best place for an introduction to the “Red City” is the Koutoubia Mosque, an impressive 12th-century monument with a towering minaret. Be drawn into the Medina, the heart of Marrakech. Seek out the extravagance of intricate mosaics, carved stucco designs and colourful tiles at the 19th-century Bahia Palace. Veer off the beaten path at the Jardin Majorelle, a serene oasis of luxuriant plants and Cubist architecture. The evening is best reserved for street performances and an explosion of flavours at the Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
Plan a trip on day 10 to the coastal town of Essaouira, a three-hour drive from Marrakesh. As you pose against the Phoenician-purple fishing boats on the soft beach sands, remind yourself that the colour, harvested from the shells from the nearby Purple Islands, reflects a 3,000-year-old history of murex production. Give into the temptation of windsurfing over the warm Atlantic waters. Then, disappear into the alleys of the UNESCO World Heritage Medina, a canvas of whitewashed walls and blue-shuttered windows. Devour fresh seafood, sway to the rhythm of the local trance-like Gnawa music and buy the finest, cold-pressed argan oil for the ultimate skin indulgence. Add another bite of perfection to your Morocco itinerary.
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On your last day in Marrakesh, take a capsule course in history at the Maison de la Photographie before admiring the ancient buildings and synagogues of Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter. Slow down the pace with a Zellij tile-making workshop with artisans to understand this classic element of Moroccan design. Finally, soak it all in with a rejuvenating cleansing ritual at a traditional hammam. Brand new you.
Book your stay at Royal Mansour Marrakech via Booking.com
Book your stay at Royal Mansour Marrakech via Agoda.com
Things to remember when travelling to Morocco
- Respect the local culture and customs and dress modestly in places of worship.
- Bargaining is common in markets, so haggle politely.
- Carrying cash in local currency is good, as electronic transactions may only be accepted in some places.
- Tipping is a common practice in Morocco, so have small denominations on hand for service providers.
- Registered taxis are a reliable option for commuting in cities, but remember to agree on fares beforehand.
- Stay hydrated, as the climate can be hot and dry.
- Be cautious of scams and pickpocketing, particularly in tourist areas.
(Feature Image Credit: Juan Mercader/Flickr)
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The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
10-12 days are recommended for a comprehensive Morocco itinerary, including cities like Marrakech and Fes, the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert.
Popular day trips include the coastal town of Essaouira and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis.
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing for hot days, but add layers for cooler nights, especially in the desert. Sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes can also be handy.
Trains, buses, taxis, and rental cars are readily available. Domestic flights are available for quick travel between major cities.
Citizens of some countries can enter visa-free and stay for up to 90 days. Check the latest visa requirements before planning your Morocco itinerary.
Popular adventure activities to add to your Morocco itinerary include camel trekking in the Sahara Desert, hiking in the Atlas Mountains, surfing in Essaouira, and hiking in the Dades Valley.
Marrakech and Fes have thriving dining scenes with everything from traditional Moroccan street food to upscale restaurants.
Shop in local souks, take a Moroccan cooking class, relax in a hammam (bathhouse), and stay in a riad (traditional Moroccan house).
The best Moroccan souvenirs include leather goods, Argan oil, spices, ceramics, Berber rugs, and traditional lanterns.
Enhance your Morocco itinerary by staying at Royal Mansour in Marrakech and Dar Seffarine in Fes.
Try Sahbi Sahbi in Marrakech and Darori Resto in Fes.
Written By
Punita Malhotra
Punita shifted gears from a career in entrepreneurship and publishing to live her dream of travel and ..Read More
