The Morocco 10 Day Itinerary from Marrakech

Your Morocco 10 Day Itinerary from Marrakech begins with a guided tour of the city’s most fascinating historical and cultural landmarks. Your local guide will pick you up from your hotel or riad, leading you through the vibrant streets of Marrakech, known as the “Red City.”

The tour includes a visit to the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech, renowned for its majestic minaret and intricate architectural details. You’ll then explore the Saadian Tombs, an extraordinary historical site rediscovered in 1917, showcasing stunning Moroccan craftsmanship. Next, visit the Bahia Palace, an opulent 19th-century residence featuring ornate courtyards, intricate wood carvings, and vibrant mosaics, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s royal past.

If you have extra time in the afternoon or evening, take the opportunity to explore Jemaa el-Fna Square, the beating heart of Marrakech. This lively marketplace comes alive with storytellers, musicians, snake charmers, and food vendors, offering a truly immersive Moroccan experience. You can also opt for a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride around the city before returning to your riad or hotel for the night, preparing for the exciting journey ahead.

After a leisurely breakfast at your riad or hotel, your journey continues westward toward the charming coastal town of Essaouira, a highlight of your Morocco 10 Day Itinerary from Marrakech.

En route, witness a unique sight—goats perched in argan trees, a fascinating phenomenon in this region. A stop here allows for photos and an introduction to the local tradition of argan oil production, where you can learn about the process and its significance in Moroccan culture.

Upon arrival in Essaouira, begin your exploration at the historic Portuguese fortress, with its imposing cannons overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Stroll through the vibrant fishing port, where fishermen bring in their daily catch, and experience the unique opportunity to select fresh fish, shellfish, or seafood, which can be prepared on the spot for a truly authentic culinary experience.

Next, wander through Essaouira’s medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where blue-and-white alleyways lead to artisan shops, traditional markets, and lively squares. This relaxed town is known for its laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat from the bustling energy of Marrakech.

As the day winds down, return to your riad or hotel in Marrakech, preparing for the next leg of your adventure.

Your Morocco 10 Day Itinerary from Marrakech continues with a scenic drive toward Casablanca, Morocco’s bustling economic hub and largest city, home to nearly seven million inhabitants.

The journey offers a change of scenery as you transition from the historical charm of Marrakech to the modern metropolitan energy of Casablanca. Upon arrival in the afternoon (around 15:00), you’ll be transferred directly to your hotel, where you can relax and prepare for the next day’s exploration.

For those who wish to explore, Casablanca’s vibrant streets, oceanfront promenades, and contemporary cafes offer a mix of Moroccan culture and modern influences, making it an intriguing stop on your journey.

After breakfast at your hotel in Casablanca, your Morocco 10 Day Itinerary from Marrakech continues with a visit to one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—the Hassan II Mosque. Standing majestically on a headland overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this architectural masterpiece is the second-largest mosque in Africa, featuring intricate Moroccan craftsmanship and the tallest minaret in the world.

Next, journey to Rabat, Morocco’s capital and one of the four imperial cities. Here, explore the historic Hassan Tower, an unfinished 12th-century minaret, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a stunning example of modern Moroccan architecture that houses the tombs of the late king and his sons. A visit to the Kasbah of the Udayas, a charming fortress with white-and-blue painted streets, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Bou Regreg River, Morocco’s longest river.

In the afternoon, the journey continues north to Chefchaouen, often called the Blue Pearl of Morocco, nestled in the Rif Mountains. Arriving in the late afternoon or evening, you’ll be taken to your traditional riad, where you can unwind. If time allows, take a leisurely stroll through Chefchaouen’s medina, admiring its vibrant blue-washed streets, charming artisan shops, and colorful galleries. Overnight stay in a charming riad in Chefchaouen.

After breakfast at your riad in Chefchaouen, your Morocco 10 Day Itinerary from Marrakech continues as you head toward Fes, one of Morocco’s most historic and culturally rich cities.

On the way, stop at Volubilis, an ancient Roman settlement dating back to the 3rd century. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to remarkably preserved arches, basins, and detailed mosaics, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s Roman past.

Next, visit Meknes, often referred to as the Versailles of Morocco and one of the country’s four imperial cities. Take a stroll around the imposing fortress walls, serene gardens, and historical palaces, remnants of Sultan Moulay Ismail’s 17th-century rule. After a stop for lunch, explore the medina, where you’ll find well-preserved palaces, grand gates, and ancient military structures that survived the 1755 earthquake.

Arriving in Fes in the evening, you’ll be transferred to your traditional riad, where you can relax and prepare for an immersive exploration of Morocco’s spiritual and intellectual capital the next day.

After breakfast at your traditional riad, a local guide will take you on an immersive city tour of Fes, the spiritual and intellectual heart of Morocco. Known for its ancient medina, historic landmarks, and vibrant souks, Fes offers a fascinating journey through time.

Your tour begins with a visit to the Royal Palace, where you’ll admire its imposing golden gate and intricate architectural details. Continue to the famous Chouara Tanneries, one of the oldest leather tanneries in the world, where artisans have been perfecting their craft for centuries. Then, explore the Medersa Al Attarine, a stunning 14th-century Islamic school known for its detailed zellige tilework and wooden carvings.

A stop at the Nejjarine Fountain, an intricately designed public water source, provides insight into traditional Moroccan craftsmanship. The highlight of the tour is a visit to Al-Qarawiyyin University, considered by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records as the oldest continually operating university in the world, founded in 859 AD.

As you wander through the labyrinthine streets of the medina, you’ll discover spice markets, traditional Berber carpets, artisan workshops, and historic mosques, all contributing to the city’s rich cultural heritage.

After a traditional Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant, return to your riad, where you can relax and prepare for the next leg of your Morocco 10 Day Itinerary from Marrakech.

An early departure marks the beginning of one of the most exciting days on your Morocco 10 Day Itinerary from Marrakech as you journey toward the mesmerizing Sahara Desert. The landscape shifts dramatically along the way, passing through lush green valleys, cedar forests, and the alpine-style town of Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco.”

A highlight of the journey is a stop at Ifrane National Park, home to one of Morocco’s largest cedar forests. If you’re lucky, you’ll encounter Barbary macaques, which have migrated as far as Gibraltar. While feeding them is allowed, caution is advised.

Continuing through the Middle Atlas Mountains, enjoy panoramic viewpoints and scenic stops before descending toward Erfoud, known for its fossil-rich terrain. Here, you’ll visit a local workshop where artisans craft jewelry and decorative pieces from prehistoric fossils, a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s ancient geological history.

As you arrive in Merzouga, the first golden sand dunes of the Sahara Desert rise before you. A camel trek through the Erg Chebbi dunes awaits, taking you to a prime location for an unforgettable sunset experience. As the sun casts a golden glow over the dunes, take in the breathtaking views and capture this magical moment.

You’ll then settle into your desert camp (standard or luxury), where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, followed by live Berber music under a sky filled with stars—an experience that truly embodies the magic of the Sahara Desert.

Wake up to a breathtaking sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes and enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast, featuring freshly baked bread, olives, egg dishes in a tajine, and sweet mint tea. Today, your Sahara Desert adventure continues with a fascinating exploration of Merzouga’s unique landscapes and nomadic traditions.

The day begins with a scenic drive through the towering dunes of Merzouga, followed by a visit to the vast fossil-rich plains, where Morocco’s ancient past is revealed through its prehistoric remains and old eyeliner coal mines.

Next, immerse yourself in the rich musical heritage of the Gnawa people, an ethnic group known for their hypnotic spiritual drum rhythms and storytelling traditions. A visit to their cultural center allows you to experience their music, history, and way of life firsthand.

Continuing deeper into the Sahara, you’ll have the rare opportunity to visit real nomads, enjoying traditional Moroccan tea under a handwoven tent made of dark camel wool. This intimate experience provides insight into desert survival, nomadic hospitality, and Berber traditions that have been preserved for centuries.

For lunch, indulge in Madfouna, a Berber-style pizza baked on an open fire, prepared by locals in a traditional desert setting.

The afternoon is yours to relax—explore the majestic sand dunes on foot, take in the tranquil beauty of the Sahara, or try your hand at sandboarding, with equipment provided by your hotel.

After a fulfilling day, return to your desert camp or hotel, where a traditional Moroccan dinner awaits, followed by a peaceful night under the starlit sky.

After a leisurely Moroccan breakfast, your Sahara Desert adventure comes to an end as you begin your journey toward Boumalne Dades, passing through some of Morocco’s most stunning desert landscapes and ancient trade routes.

The route takes you through the legendary Road of 1000 Kasbahs, an area rich with historic fortresses, half-ruined kasbahs, and traditional Berber villages. This scenic drive gives insight into the region’s historical importance as a vital passage for merchants and traders along the river oases.

A highlight of today’s journey is a stop at Todra Gorge, located at 1,550 meters above sea level in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. This dramatic canyon, with its towering limestone walls and crystal-clear river, offers breathtaking scenery and an excellent opportunity for short walks, photography, and admiring the sheer scale of the gorge.

Continuing along the route, you’ll visit the Dades Gorge, another impressive natural wonder, known for its winding rock formations and panoramic mountain views. After soaking in the stunning landscapes, you’ll arrive at Boumalne Dades, where you’ll check into your traditional riad or hotel for an overnight stay, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Dades Valley.

Today marks the final leg of your Morocco 10 Day Itinerary from Marrakech, but there are still plenty of incredible sights to experience before returning to Marrakech.

Leaving Boumalne Dades, the journey takes you through the stunning Valley of the Roses, a region known for its fragrant rose fields and artisanal rose-infused products. If interested, you can visit a local cooperative to see how rose perfume, soap, body cream, and essential oils are traditionally made.

Next, you’ll arrive in Ouarzazate, Morocco’s Hollywood of Africa, home to famous film studios and iconic kasbahs. A short drive from here leads to the legendary Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s best-preserved kasbahs. This ancient fortress, made entirely of earthen clay, has been featured in many Hollywood films, including Game of Thrones and Gladiator.

The journey continues with a scenic ascent into the High Atlas Mountains, where you’ll cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass at an altitude of 2,260 meters. Here, you can stop for panoramic views of winding mountain roads, Berber villages, and rugged landscapes.

By late afternoon or evening, you’ll arrive in Marrakech, where your 10-day Moroccan adventure concludes. Depending on your flight schedule, we will transfer you directly to the airport or to your riad/hotel, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Want to spend an extra day exploring? Check out our Morocco itinerary 11 days from Marrakech for a more immersive route.