8 days tour from Fes to Marrakech via imperial cities and desert
Tour from
Fes
Duration
8 days
Min people
1 person
Destination
Marrakech
Experience the magic of Morocco in 8 unforgettable days, journeying from the imperial city of Fes to the golden dunes of the Sahara and the vibrant streets of Marrakech. This immersive tour combines history, culture, stunning landscapes, and authentic Moroccan experiences. Wander through ancient medinas, explore Roman ruins, traverse the High Atlas Mountains, and ride camels across the Sahara Desert. Perfect for travelers seeking a blend of adventure, heritage, and local encounters.
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Fes Medina, including its Royal Palace, leather tanneries, and traditional pottery workshops.
- Discover the blue streets of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains.
- Visit Volubilis, the remarkable Roman ruins, and experience Berber history along the way.
- Explore Morocco’s capital, Rabat, with its majestic Hassan Tower, Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the historic Udaya Kasbah.
- Discover Casablanca, including the iconic Hassan II Mosque and lively Mohammed V Square.
- Travel through the High Atlas Mountains and witness the cinematic beauty of Ait Ben Haddou.
- Journey into the Dades Valley and Todra Gorge, marveling at dramatic desert landscapes.
- Experience a Sahara Desert adventure in Merzouga with camel trekking, Berber music, and overnight in a desert camp under the stars.
- Return to Fes through scenic landscapes, completing a full Moroccan cultural and natural journey.
Tour Details
DAY 1: ARRIVAL AT FES AIRPORT – TRANSFER TO HOTEL/RIAD
Upon your arrival at Fes airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our team. You will be transferred to your riad or hotel in the heart of the ancient Medina. Take some time to settle in and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the old city.
Overnight in Fes.
DAY 2: FES SIGHTSEEING WITH A LOCAL GUIDE
After breakfast, meet your local guide and explore the historic city of Fes. Start with the Royal Palace, a remarkable example of Moroccan architecture. Continue to the Mellah, the Jewish quarter, and visit its 17th-century synagogue.
Next, experience the spiritual and intellectual legacy of University of al-Qarawiyyin, once a mosque and now a leading center of learning in the Muslim world. Visit the Chouara Tannery, where you can observe the traditional leather dyeing process from terraces overlooking the colorful pits.
Stroll through the bustling souks of the old Medina, enjoying a traditional lunch in one of its charming alleyways. Later, head to the highest viewpoint in Fes for panoramic views of the city, and visit a local pottery and ceramics workshop to see artisans at work.
Return to your riad for the night.
Overnight in Fes.
DAY 3: FES – VOLUBILIS – CHEFCHAOUEN
Depart Fes in the morning for the northern blue city, Chefchaouen. Along the way, stop at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Volubilis, an ancient Roman city showcasing grand mosaics, temples, and arches. Learn about the Berber civilization that took over this city around AD 270.
Continue through the Rif Mountains, stopping in Ouazzane for lunch. Arrive in Chefchaouen in the afternoon. Enjoy free time to explore its iconic blue-painted streets, vibrant markets, and peaceful squares.
Overnight in Chefchaouen.
DAY 4: CHEFCHAOUEN – RABAT – CASABLANCA
After breakfast, depart Chefchaouen and head south to the capital, Rabat. Visit the impressive Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret from the 12th century, and the nearby Mausoleum of Mohammed V, containing the tombs of the Moroccan king and his family.
Explore the Udaya Kasbah, a charming walled neighborhood overlooking the Atlantic, with its iconic blue-and-white walls. Enjoy lunch in Rabat before continuing your journey to Casablanca, Morocco’s bustling commercial capital.
Overnight in Casablanca.
DAY 5: CASABLANCA – MARRAKECH
Begin the day with a visit to Hassan II Mosque, the second largest mosque in Africa and one of the few open to non-Muslims. Take a stroll along the Corniche, enjoy the view of the Atlantic waves, and visit Mohammed V Square with its lively pigeons. Stop at the famous Rick’s Cafe for a memorable photo or coffee break.
In the afternoon, travel to Marrakech, the Red City, and check into your riad in the heart of the old Medina.
Overnight in Marrakech.
DAY 6: MARRAKECH – AIT BEN HADDOU – BOUMALNE DADES
Depart Marrakech early and drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass. Stop for photos and to admire the breathtaking scenery of winding mountain roads, valleys, and Berber villages.
Visit the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage ksar (fortified village) famous for its earthen architecture, used as a backdrop in many films. Continue the journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Valley.
Arrive in Boumalne Dades and check into your hotel or kasbah.
Overnight in Boumalne Dades.
DAY 7: BOUMALNE DADES – MERZOUGA (SAHARA DESERT)
After breakfast, drive through the Todra Gorge, marveling at its towering canyon walls. Continue the scenic journey across the desert plains toward Merzouga.
Arrive in the Sahara Desert and prepare for a camel trek through the golden dunes at sunset. Reach your desert camp, enjoy traditional Berber music around the campfire, and savor a delicious dinner under the star-filled sky.
Overnight in a Berber desert camp in Merzouga.
DAY 8: MERZOUGA – FES
Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara dunes. After breakfast, depart Merzouga and begin the return journey to Fes, passing through desert landscapes, palm groves, and small Berber villages. Stop for lunch along the way.
Arrive in Fes in the late evening for your departure or extended stay.