Morocco 9 Days Tour From Marrakech

Overview:

This 9-day journey through Morocco offers an unforgettable blend of rich history, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant culture. Starting in Marrakech, the tour takes you across the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains to ancient kasbahs and lush valleys. Explore the iconic Sahara Desert, wander through the ancient streets of Fez, and uncover the charm of Chefchaouen’s blue-hued alleys. Ending in Casablanca, this tour promises a deep dive into Morocco’s diverse beauty and heritage.

Highlights: 

• Marrakech: Explore the vibrant medina, historic palaces, and bustling souks of the “Red City.”
• High Atlas Mountains: Cross the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass and enjoy breathtaking mountain landscapes.
• Ait Ben Haddou: Visit the UNESCO-listed fortified village, famous for its role in numerous films.
• Dades Valley: Discover the lush valley and marvel at the rock formations of the “Monkey Toes.”
• Todra Gorges: Walk through the towering red cliffs of this dramatic canyon.
• Merzouga and Erg Chebbi: Experience the Sahara Desert with camel rides, golden dunes, and a magical night under the stars in a desert camp.
• Fes: Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Morocco’s spiritual and scientific capital, featuring the ancient medina and Al-Qarawiyyin University.
• Volubilis: Wander through the well-preserved Roman ruins and admire intricate mosaics.
• Meknes: Visit the imperial city, including Bab Mansour and the historic granaries.
• Chefchaouen: Roam the blue-painted streets of this picturesque Rif Mountain town.
• Rabat: Discover the administrative capital’s landmarks, such as the Royal Palace, Oudaya Kasbah, and Hassan Tower.
• Casablanca: Conclude your journey with a visit to the iconic Hassan II Mosque and a stroll along the Corniche.

Quick Itinerary Overview:

• Day 1: Marrakech – Tizi N’Tichka Pass – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley

• Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga

• Day 3: Merzouga – Nomadic Experience – Erg Chebbi Dunes

• Day 4: Merzouga – Midelt – Azrou – Ifrane – Fez

• Day 5: Full-Day Exploration of Fez

• Day 6: Fez – Volubilis – Meknes – Chefchaouen

• Day 7: Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl

• Day 8: Chefchaouen – Rabat – Casablanca

• Day 9: Casablanca Departure

Morocco Tour 9 Days Full Itinerary:

Day 1: Marrakech – Tizi N’Tichka Pass – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley

Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Marrakech through the towering High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi N’Tichka Pass, admiring dramatic vistas and quaint Berber villages along the way. Stop at the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a magnificent fortress famous for its role in numerous films. After lunch, continue to Ouarzazate, the gateway to the desert, and explore the historic Kasbah Taourirt. Journey through the picturesque Skoura palm groves and the Valley of Roses before arriving at Dades Valley, where you’ll enjoy dinner and spend the night in a charming guesthouse.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Erfoud – Merzouga

After breakfast, travel through the winding road of Dades Gorge, known for its stunning rock formations, before heading to the awe-inspiring Todra Gorges. Take a leisurely walk along the crystal-clear river flanked by towering cliffs, a favorite spot for climbers and nature lovers. Continue to Erfoud, a town famous for its fossil workshops, and pass through the oasis-filled Ziz Valley. Arrive in Merzouga, where the vast golden dunes of the Sahara await. In the evening, embark on a camel trek to your desert camp, enjoying a magical sunset over the dunes before a traditional dinner and drumming under the starlit sky.

Day 3: Merzouga – Nomadic Experience – Erg Chebbi Dunes

I awake early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the dunes before returning to camp for breakfast. Spend the day exploring the desert’s hidden gems, including a visit to a nomadic family to learn about their traditional lifestyle. Discover the village of Khamlia, home to Gnawa musicians, and enjoy their captivating spiritual rhythms. Venture deeper into the desert to admire volcanic rocks and Yasmina Lake, a serene seasonal spot surrounded by dunes. Conclude the day back at your desert camp or hotel for a relaxing evening.

Day 4: Merzouga – Midelt – Azrou – Ifrane – Fez

Bid farewell to the desert as you travel through the Ziz Valley, passing through palm groves and dramatic landscapes. Stop in Midelt for lunch, a town nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains and known for its apple orchards. Continue through the cedar forests of Azrou, where you may spot Barbary macaques, and pass through the charming town of Ifrane, nicknamed “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture. Arrive in Fez in the evening, where you’ll settle in for the night.

Day 5: Full-Day Exploration of Fez

Dive into the cultural and historical wonders of Fez, starting with the labyrinthine streets of Fes El Bali, the oldest medina in the world. Visit the Al-Qarawiyyin University, Bou Inania Madrasa, and the Chouara Tannery. Explore the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts, then enjoy a rooftop lunch with panoramic views of the medina. In the afternoon, visit the Mellah, the Jewish Quarter, and the Royal Palace gates before heading to the Merenid Tombs for a stunning sunset view over the city.

Day 6: Fez – Volubilis – Meknes – Chefchaouen

Depart Fez for the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautifully preserved mosaics. Continue to Meknes, an imperial city rich in history, and visit Bab Mansour, the Sahrij Souani granaries, and El Hedim Square. After lunch, journey to Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains. Arrive in the evening to soak in the tranquil ambiance of the Blue City and spend the night in a charming riad.

Day 7: Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl

Spend the day exploring Chefchaouen’s enchanting blue-washed streets, vibrant marketplaces, and traditional craft shops. Visit the town’s central Kasbah, a historic fortress with a lovely garden and museum. Pause for lunch at a local café, sampling regional specialties like goat cheese. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon wandering the picturesque medina or hiking nearby trails for panoramic views of the town. Spend the night savoring the serene atmosphere of Chefchaouen.

Day 8: Chefchaouen – Rabat – Casablanca

Travel to Rabat, Morocco’s administrative capital, where you’ll visit the Hassan Tower, the Mohammed V Mausoleum, and the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Continue to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, and tour the iconic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most intricate in the world. Enjoy an evening walk along the Corniche before settling into your hotel for the night.

Day 9: Casablanca Departure

On your final day, enjoy breakfast at your hotel and a leisurely morning to explore Casablanca’s vibrant streets or shop for souvenirs. Depending on your flight schedule, your driver will ensure a smooth transfer to the airport, marking the end of your unforgettable Moroccan adventure.

Map of the 9-Day Moroccan Tour from Marrakech

Optional Activities:

1. Cooking Class:
• Learn to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes like tagines, pastilla, or couscous with a local chef in Marrakech or Fes.
2. Quad Biking or Dune Buggy Adventure:
• Ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes for an exhilarating experience in the Sahara Desert.
3. Hammam and Spa Experience:
• Relax in a traditional Moroccan hammam and indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment with argan oil.
4. Horseback Riding:
• Explore scenic trails in the Dades Valley or along desert landscapes on horseback.
5. Sandboarding:
• Slide down the golden dunes of Merzouga on a sandboard for a thrilling desert activity.
6. Artisan Workshops:
• Participate in pottery-making in Fes, learn carpet weaving in the High Atlas, or try leather crafting in Marrakech.
7. Henna Painting Session:
• Get intricate henna designs applied by local artists, a traditional Moroccan beauty practice.
8. Photography Tour:
• Join a guided session focusing on capturing the best angles and lighting in iconic locations like Chefchaouen or Ait Ben Haddou.
9. Astronomy Experience:
• Stargazing session in the Sahara with a local guide or expert, learning about constellations visible in the desert skies.