Day 1: Arrival in Fes – Guided City Tour
Your 12-day Morocco tour begins upon arrival in Fes, where your driver-guide will warmly welcome you at the airport or your accommodation. Founded more than 12 centuries ago by Moulay Idriss II, Fes is considered one of Morocco’s oldest imperial cities and a spiritual and cultural capital of the country.
The day starts with a guided exploration of the ancient medina of Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its narrow alleys, traditional souks, and authentic Moroccan atmosphere. During the visit, you will discover some of the city’s most important historical landmarks, including University of al-Qarawiyyin, founded by Fatima al-Fihri and recognized as one of the oldest universities in the world. You will also admire the impressive Royal Palace gates and visit the beautiful Bou Inania Madrasa, known for its remarkable Islamic architecture.
After enjoying a traditional Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant, continue discovering the cultural treasures of the city before returning to your riad or hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2: Fes – Volubilis – Moulay Idriss – Meknes – Fes
After breakfast, depart from Fes for a fascinating day trip to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, one of Morocco’s best-preserved archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the impressive mosaics, columns, and ruins that reflect the southernmost reach of the Roman Empire in North Africa.
Continue to the sacred town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, home to the mausoleum of Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the first Islamic dynasty in Morocco. This peaceful hilltop town offers panoramic views and a rich spiritual atmosphere.
Later, travel to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities founded by Sultan Moulay Ismail. Enjoy lunch near the famous Bab Mansour, considered one of the most beautiful gates in Morocco. The tour also includes a visit to Heri es-Souani, the historic granaries and royal stables built during the reign of Moulay Ismail.
In the afternoon, stroll through the old medina and local markets of Meknes before returning to Fes for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3: Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, begin your journey toward Merzouga, gateway to the spectacular Sahara Desert. Along the way, pass through the charming town of Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” thanks to its European-style architecture and clean mountain surroundings.
Continue through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains, where you may encounter the famous Barbary macaques. Afterward, travel to Midelt, known for its apple orchards and mountain landscapes, where you will stop for lunch.
The journey continues through the scenic Tizi Ntalghamt pass and the Ziz Valley before reaching Erfoud, famous for its fossils and desert gateway atmosphere. Upon arrival in Merzouga, leave your luggage at the hotel and embark on a memorable camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Enjoy a magical desert sunset before arriving at your luxury desert camp, where a traditional Moroccan dinner will be served under the stars. The evening continues with Berber music, drumming, and campfire entertainment in the heart of the Sahara.
Day 4: Merzouga Desert Excursion – Erg Chebbi Discovery
Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. After breakfast and a refreshing shower at the hotel, begin an exciting desert exploration around the Merzouga region.
Visit nearby villages such as Hassi Labied, Merdani, Khamlia, and M’Fis, where you will experience authentic desert culture and traditions. In Khamlia, enjoy traditional Gnawa music performed by descendants of Sub-Saharan African communities who settled in the region centuries ago.
Continue toward the desert plains near the Algerian border for panoramic views of the dunes and a relaxing picnic lunch under the shade of desert trees. During the excursion, you will also meet nomadic Berber families living in traditional tents and discover their unique lifestyle.
On the return journey to Merzouga, stop at volcanic rock formations and visit the seasonal Yasmina Lake, offering stunning reflections of the surrounding dunes during springtime. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Merzouga.
Day 5: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
After enjoying another unforgettable desert sunrise, return by camel to the hotel for breakfast and a shower before continuing your journey toward Todra Gorge.
Pass through Rissani, the former capital of Tafilalt and an important trading center in southern Morocco. Continue to the spectacular Todra Gorges, where towering limestone cliffs carved by the river create one of Morocco’s most impressive natural landscapes.
Following lunch, drive along the famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs and through the lush palm groves of Skoura before reaching Dades Valley. Admire the dramatic rock formations and scenic valley views before dinner and an overnight stay in a traditional hotel or riad.
Day 6: Dades Valley – Boutaghrar – Skoura – Ouarzazate
After breakfast in Dades Valley, continue your adventure toward Ouarzazate, widely known as the Hollywood of Morocco.
Travel through the scenic Boutaghrar region and the palm oasis of Skoura, famous for its kasbahs and rose cultivation. Along the way, enjoy beautiful desert landscapes and traditional Berber villages before stopping for lunch.
Upon arrival in Ouarzazate, visit some of the city’s famous film studios and cinematic attractions that have hosted international productions such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 7: Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech
After breakfast, depart toward the legendary fortified village of Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient earthen architecture and famous movie locations.
Following lunch near the kasbah, continue your journey across the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka pass, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the High Atlas Mountains.
By evening, arrive in Marrakech, one of Morocco’s most vibrant and iconic imperial cities. Overnight stay at a riad or hotel.
Day 8: Guided Tour of Marrakech
Today is dedicated to discovering the cultural treasures of Marrakech. Begin with a visit to the beautiful Menara Gardens before exploring the city’s famous landmarks.
Visit the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, admire the colorful beauty of Majorelle Garden, and discover the elegance of Bahia Palace. You will also explore the historic Dar Si Said Museum and wander through the lively souks of the old medina.
In the evening, enjoy panoramic views over Jemaa el-Fnaa square from a rooftop café before returning to your accommodation for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 9: Marrakech – Essaouira
After breakfast, travel west toward the charming coastal city of Essaouira, known for its relaxed atmosphere, Atlantic beaches, and artistic spirit.
Often referred to as the “Wind City of Africa,” Essaouira is a popular destination for surfers and travelers seeking tranquility by the sea. Explore the ancient medina, the historic ramparts, and the bustling fishing port where fresh seafood is prepared daily.
Enjoy free time to walk through the narrow streets, shop for local handicrafts, and admire the ocean views before dinner and an overnight stay in Essaouira.
Day 10: Essaouira – Casablanca
Following breakfast, continue your tour toward Casablanca, Morocco’s economic capital and largest city.
Upon arrival, enjoy lunch before visiting the impressive Hassan II Mosque, home to one of the tallest minarets in the world and beautifully situated along the Atlantic coastline.
Later, take a relaxing walk along the Corniche and explore some of the city’s modern districts before checking into your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 11: Casablanca – Rabat – Meknes
After breakfast, depart for Rabat, the capital city of Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During the visit, discover the historic Hassan Tower and the beautiful Mausoleum of Mohammed V before exploring the medina and enjoying lunch.
Continue toward Meknes, where you will visit historical attractions including Bab Mansour and Heri es-Souani. Dinner and overnight stay in Meknes.
Day 12: Meknes – Volubilis – Fes Airport
On the final day of your 12-day Morocco tour from Fes, enjoy breakfast before heading to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis for one last cultural visit and photo stop.
After exploring the archaeological site, continue back to Fes, where your driver will transfer you to the airport or your preferred location, marking the end of an unforgettable Moroccan adventure filled with culture, history, desert landscapes, and imperial cities.
