8-Day Grand Morocco tour from Marrakech

Tour Details

Day 1: Marrakech – Essaouira

Begin your journey with a morning departure from Marrakech, heading west toward the Atlantic coast. The route takes you through argan tree groves where you may spot goats climbing the branches, a unique sight particular to this region.

Arrive in Essaouira, the charming coastal city known for its relaxed atmosphere and artistic vibe. Explore the historic medina surrounded by 18th-century Portuguese fortifications. Wander through the bustling fishing harbor where blue boats bob in the harbor and fresh seafood is sold daily. Stroll along the breezy ramparts with panoramic ocean views, browse artisan workshops specializing in thuya wood crafts, and soak in the bohemian ambiance. Overnight in Essaouira.

Day 2: Essaouira – Casablanca

After breakfast, depart the coastal haven and journey north along the Atlantic route toward Casablanca, Morocco’s economic capital and largest city. The drive offers glimpses of coastal landscapes and agricultural plains.

Upon arrival in Casablanca, visit the breathtaking Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques, positioned majestically where the ocean meets the city. Marvel at its soaring 210-meter minaret, intricate tile work, and carved marble details. This architectural masterpiece is one of few mosques in Morocco welcoming non-Muslim visitors. Explore the Corniche waterfront area and experience the modern, cosmopolitan energy of this vibrant city. Overnight in Casablanca.

Day 3: Casablanca – Rabat – Chefchaouen

Start early for Rabat, Morocco’s elegant capital city blending contemporary governance with historic grandeur. Tour the iconic Hassan Tower, an incomplete 12th-century minaret that stands as a symbol of ambition. Visit the ornate Mausoleum of Mohammed V, showcasing exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship with its white marble and intricate zellige tilework.

Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas, a picturesque blue and white fortress perched above the Atlantic, with its Andalusian gardens and narrow streets. Stroll through the historic medina before continuing your journey into the Rif Mountains.

Arrive in Chefchaouen by evening, where the distinctive blue-washed buildings create an otherworldly atmosphere. Settle into your accommodation in this mountain sanctuary.

Day 4: Chefchaouen – Fes

Spend your morning exploring Chefchaouen’s enchanting blue alleys at leisure. Photograph the azure-painted walls, visit the central square of Uta el-Hammam, browse local handicraft shops selling woven textiles and mountain honey, and perhaps hike to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views over the blue city.

After lunch, depart for Fes, traveling through the rolling hills and agricultural lands of northern Morocco. Arrive in Fes by evening, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart. Overnight in Fes.

Day 5: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga

After breakfast in Fes, embark on a scenic journey toward the Sahara Desert. First, pass through Ifrane, nicknamed “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture, clean boulevards, and European ambiance, a surprising contrast in the heart of Morocco.

Continue to Azrou and explore the famous cedar forests of the Middle Atlas, home to wild Barbary macaque populations. Watch these playful monkeys in their natural habitat among ancient trees. Travel through Midelt, nestled between the Middle and High Atlas ranges, where you may pause for lunch.

The landscape transforms as you descend through the dramatic Ziz Valley, where endless date palm groves create ribbons of green against desert terrain. By late afternoon, arrive at the Sahara’s edge in Merzouga. Meet your camel guides and trek across the towering Erg Chebbi dunes as the setting sun paints the sands in gold and amber. Reach your desert camp where traditional Berber hospitality awaits, enjoy dinner, music around the campfire, and a night beneath countless stars.

Day 6: Merzouga Desert Exploration

Wake before dawn to witness the magical sunrise over the Sahara dunes, watching as the desert comes alive in shades of pink and gold. After breakfast, spend the day immersing yourself in desert life and landscapes.

Visit nomadic Berber families living in traditional desert dwellings, learning about their ancestral customs and resilient way of life. Explore nearby desert oases and seasonal lakes that provide vital resources for local communities. Journey to Khamlia village, founded by descendants of sub-Saharan migrants, where you’ll experience hypnotic Gnawa music, a spiritual musical tradition blending African rhythms with Berber influences, while sipping sweet mint tea.

In the afternoon, wander through Merzouga’s streets and local market, or simply relax and absorb the profound tranquility of desert surroundings. As evening approaches, enjoy another camel trek or 4×4 excursion to catch the sunset from a different vantage point. Return to your desert accommodation for dinner and another starlit night.

Day 7: Merzouga – Erfoud – Todra Gorge – Boumalne Dades

After breakfast and one final sunrise over the dunes, begin your westward journey through Morocco’s dramatic southeastern landscapes. Pass through Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops where ancient marine life preserved in stone tells stories of when this desert was an ocean.

Continue to the spectacular Todra Gorge, where massive limestone cliffs rise over 300 meters, creating a narrow canyon corridor. Walk along the cool, palm-shaded riverbed and marvel at the sheer rock faces that tower on both sides, a paradise for rock climbers and nature lovers alike.

Journey onward through scenic valleys dotted with Berber villages and traditional kasbahs. Arrive in Boumalne Dades, gateway to the equally stunning Dades Valley. Overnight surrounded by the valley’s dramatic rock formations and canyon landscapes.

Day 8: Boumalne Dades – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

Begin your final day traveling through the magnificent Dades Valley, known for its winding roads, kasbahs, and striking geological formations. Continue to Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Desert” and Morocco’s Hollywood due to its renowned film studios where countless international productions have been filmed.

Visit the legendary Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, the crown jewel of Moroccan earthen architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This fortified village, with its distinctive red clay towers and maze-like passages, has served as a backdrop for films like Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia. Explore its ancient alleys and climb to the top for sweeping desert views.

After lunch, begin the final leg of your journey, crossing the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi N’Tichka Pass at 2,260 meters elevation. Wind through Berber villages and mountain valleys as the landscape gradually shifts back toward Marrakech. Arrive in Marrakech by evening, completing your incredible 8-day circular journey through Morocco’s most diverse and captivating regions.