Ultimate 9 Days Morocco Itinerary from Fes

Your 9 Days Morocco Tour Itinerary from Fes begins with a warm welcome at the Fes airport, where your driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel or traditional riad. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to start exploring Fes today by bringing forward part of tomorrow’s itinerary, allowing for a smoother and more flexible journey ahead.

After breakfast at your riad, your local guide will meet you for a guided city tour of Fes, Morocco’s cultural and spiritual heart. The journey begins at the Royal Palace, where you’ll admire its imposing golden gate and vast walls before venturing into the UNESCO-listed medina, one of the world’s oldest and most well-preserved.

Explore the vibrant tanneries, the beautifully decorated Medersa Al Attarine, and the historic Nejjarine Fountain. A highlight of the tour is visiting Al-Qarawiyyin University, recognized as the oldest university in the world. As you stroll through the maze-like narrow streets, you’ll pass spice stalls, Berber carpet shops, and traditional artisan workshops, offering an authentic glimpse into Moroccan craftsmanship.

After lunch at a traditional local restaurant, return to your riad for a relaxing evening, reflecting on the rich history and vibrant energy of Fes.

Today, we leave early for an exciting journey to Merzouga, crossing diverse landscapes that transform from lush greenery to the golden sands of the Sahara. As we travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, you’ll notice a stark contrast in scenery—some areas resemble Europe more than Morocco, with alpine-style houses, rolling green hills, and even grazing cows instead of camels.

A highlight of the day is a drive through Ifrane National Park, home to one of Morocco’s largest cedar forests. Here, you may encounter the famous Barbary macaques, which have migrated as far as Gibraltar. Feeding them is allowed, but caution is advised. Continuing through the Atlas Mountains, we’ll stop at panoramic viewpoints to admire the breathtaking scenery before descending toward Erfoud and Merzouga.

In Erfoud, we visit a local fossil workshop, where skilled artisans craft jewelry and decorative pieces from fossils unique to the region. From here, we continue to your desert camp or hotel at the edge of the Sahara, where the first golden sand dunes rise in the distance.

As the sun begins to set, you’ll embark on an unforgettable camel ride across the dunes, capturing the breathtaking colors of the desert sunset. Be sure to bring your camera to preserve this magical experience before settling in for a night under the stars in the heart of the Sahara.

After enjoying a hearty Moroccan breakfast, featuring olives, fresh bread, egg tajine, and traditional sweets, we set off on a regional tour of the Merzouga desert, uncovering its hidden gems and cultural richness.

Your journey takes you deep into the dunes, where you’ll explore the vast fossil plains and abandoned kohl (eyeliner) mines, remnants of Morocco’s rich geological history. A visit to a traditional Gnawa music house offers a unique experience—listening to the hypnotic drum rhythms and spiritual melodies passed down through generations.

Next, you’ll share mint tea with real nomads, seated beneath their hand-woven wool tents, gaining insight into their timeless way of life. For lunch, indulge in Madfouna, the famous Berber pizza, traditionally baked over an open fire at a local restaurant.

The afternoon is yours to relax or explore the towering sand dunes at your own pace. If you’re feeling adventurous, your hotel can provide a sandboard for an exciting desert surfing experience. End the day with a delicious dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel, embracing the tranquility of the Sahara under a star-lit sky.

After a leisurely breakfast, we set off towards Boumalne Dades, traveling along the famous Road of 1000 Kasbahs. This historic route, once a vital part of the trans-Saharan trade, is lined with ancient kasbahs, fortified villages, and stunning oasis valleys, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich past.

Our first major stop is the Todgha Gorge, a breathtaking natural wonder located at 1,550 meters above sea level, at the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. The towering rock walls of this narrow canyon, shaped by the flowing crystal-clear river, create a dramatic landscape perfect for exploration and photography.

Continuing our journey, we make a short stop at the Dades Gorge, another stunning valley known for its bizarre rock formations and winding mountain roads. By late afternoon, we arrive in Boumalne Dades, where you’ll settle into your accommodation for the night, surrounded by the serene beauty of Morocco’s southern landscapes.

Today, we begin our journey back to Marrakech, but there’s still plenty to explore along the way. Our first stop is the Valley of the Roses, where the fragrant fields produce rose-infused products, including perfumes, soaps, body creams, and essential oils—perfect for those interested in natural beauty products.

Continuing onward, we reach Ouarzazate, Morocco’s cinematic capital, home to famous film studios where countless Hollywood blockbusters have been shot. From here, we visit the iconic Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar that has served as a backdrop for films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Wandering through its ancient mudbrick alleys and fortified dwellings, you’ll feel transported back in time.

The journey then takes us high into the Atlas Mountains, reaching the Tizi N’Tichka Pass (2,260m), where you’ll stop to admire the stunning panoramic views before descending toward the Marrakech plains. By evening, we arrive in the Red City, where you’ll be dropped off at your riad for an overnight stay, ready to explore Marrakech’s vibrant energy the next day.

tart your day with a traditional Moroccan breakfast, featuring freshly baked pita bread, a flavorful egg dish, and sweet green mint tea. After breakfast, your local guide will meet you at your hotel or riad for a fascinating guided tour of Marrakech, uncovering the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Your exploration begins at the Koutoubia Mosque, an iconic landmark with its towering minaret dominating the city skyline. Next, visit the Saadian Tombs, a hidden treasure rediscovered in 1917, showcasing intricate Moroccan craftsmanship. Continue to the Bahia Palace, one of Marrakech’s most stunning royal residences, adorned with ornate courtyards, colorful tiles, and intricate woodwork.

In the afternoon or evening, enjoy some free time to explore Jemaa el-Fna Square, where storytellers, musicians, snake charmers, and bustling market stalls create an unforgettable atmosphere. If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the city, consider a horse-drawn carriage ride before returning to your riad for the night.

After a leisurely breakfast, we set off westward toward the picturesque coastal town of Essaouira, known for its relaxed atmosphere, historic ramparts, and vibrant fishing port. Along the way, we stop for one of Morocco’s most unusual sights—goats perched on argan trees, feeding on the nuts. This fascinating scene is perfect for photos and a closer look at Morocco’s famous argan oil production.

Upon arrival in Essaouira, we begin our exploration at the old Portuguese fortress, where cannons still point out to sea, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich maritime history. The lively fishing port is a must-visit, where you can watch fishermen bring in the day’s catch and even choose your own fresh fish, shellfish, or seafood to be grilled on the spot. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a freshly caught oyster, a local delicacy.

After wandering through the charming medina, filled with artisan shops, whitewashed walls, and blue doors, we return to Marrakech, where you’ll spend the night in your riad or hotel, reflecting on the beauty of Morocco’s Atlantic coast.

After breakfast, we transfer you back to Marrakech, ensuring a smooth journey to the airport based on your departure time. As your 9 Days Morocco Tour Itinerary comes to an end, you leave with unforgettable memories of Morocco’s imperial cities, desert landscapes, and coastal charm. Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back for another Moroccan adventure!