How to Spend Ten Days in Morocco: A Complete Itinerary
How to Spend Ten Days in Morocco: A Complete Itinerary
Morocco is a country rich in culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Starting from the vibrant city of Casablanca, this ten-day itinerary will take you through some of Morocco’s most captivating destinations, including Chefchaouen, Fes, the Sahara Desert, the Dades Valley, and Marrakech. Let’s dive into the details of your journey!
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca
Evening in Casablanca
Arrive at Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca. After checking into your hotel, take a leisurely evening stroll along the **Corniche** or visit the **Hassan II Mosque**, one of the largest mosques in the world. If time permits, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like tagine or seafood.
Day 2: Casablanca to Chefchaouen
Morning: Travel to Chefchaouen
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to **Chefchaouen**, the famous blue city nestled in the Rif Mountains. The journey takes about 5-6 hours, so enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way.
Afternoon: Explore Chefchaouen
Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and spend the afternoon wandering the charming streets. Don’t miss the **Kasbah** and the **Outa el-Hammam square**, where you can relax with a cup of mint tea.
Evening: Local Cuisine
For dinner, try local specialties such as **kefta** or **harira** in one of the many restaurants. The relaxed atmosphere of Chefchaouen is perfect for unwinding after your journey.
Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fes
Morning: Depart for Fes
After breakfast, depart for **Fes**, Morocco’s cultural capital. The drive takes about 4-5 hours. Check into your hotel upon arrival.
Afternoon: Fes Medina
Spend the afternoon exploring the **Fes el-Bali**, the old medina. Visit historical sites like the **Bou Inania Madrasa** and the **Al-Qarawiyyin University**, one of the oldest universities in the world. The intricate architecture and bustling souks will captivate you.
Evening: Dinner in Fes
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try a classic Moroccan tagine or couscous while soaking in the atmosphere of this vibrant city.
Day 4: Full Day in Fes
Morning: Guided Tour of Fes
Today, take a guided tour of Fes to dive deeper into its history and culture. Visit the **Tanneries** to see the traditional leather-making process, and explore the **Medersa el-Attarine**, known for its stunning tile work.
Afternoon: More Sightseeing
Continue your exploration with a visit to the **Merenid Tombs** for panoramic views of the medina. You may also visit artisan workshops to see the craftsmanship of local artisans.
Evening: Evening at Leisure
Spend your evening at leisure, perhaps shopping for souvenirs or enjoying a leisurely meal in the medina.
Day 5: Fes to Merzouga
Morning: Journey to Merzouga
Leave Fes early in the morning for **Merzouga**, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours, so prepare for a day of travel. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel through the Middle Atlas region.
Afternoon: Arrival in Merzouga
Upon arrival in Merzouga, check into your accommodation. After a quick refresh, prepare for your camel trek.
Evening: Camel Trek and Desert Camp
Embark on a camel ride into the **Sahara Desert**, experiencing the golden dunes firsthand. Arrive at your desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars, complete with Berber music and storytelling.
Day 6: Exploring the Sahara
Morning: Sunrise and Dune Exploration
Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, take some time to explore the area on foot or try sandboarding.
Afternoon: Relax and Discover
Spend your afternoon at leisure. You can visit a nearby oasis or engage with local Berber families to learn about their lifestyle and traditions.
Evening: Second Night in the Desert
Enjoy another magical night in the desert camp, with a delicious dinner and more stargazing.
Day 7: Merzouga to Dades Valley
Morning: Depart for Dades Valley
After breakfast, leave Merzouga and head toward the **Dades Valley**, a stunning region known for its dramatic landscapes and rock formations. The drive takes approximately 3-4 hours.
Afternoon: Explore Dades Valley
Upon arrival, explore the valley and its scenic routes, including the famous **Dades Gorge**. Take in the breathtaking views and capture memorable photographs.
Evening: Overnight in Dades Valley
Check into a local guesthouse and enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner. Take the evening to relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
Day 8: Dades Valley to Marrakech via Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou
Morning: Travel to Marrakech
After breakfast, depart for Marrakech, stopping at **Ouarzazate** along the way. Visit the **Taourirt Kasbah** and perhaps one of the film studios that make Ouarzazate the “Hollywood of Morocco.”
Afternoon: Aït Benhaddou
Continue your journey to **Aït Benhaddou**, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient fortified village, famous for its mud-brick architecture and scenic views. After lunch, take time to wander through the narrow alleys and soak in the atmosphere.
Evening: Arrive in Marrakech
Continue your drive to Marrakech, arriving in the evening. Check into your hotel and relax after a long day of travel.
Day 9: Full Day in Marrakech
Morning: Guided City Tour
Spend your final full day in Morocco exploring Marrakech with a local guide. Visit the **Koutoubia Mosque**, the **Saadian Tombs**, and the **Bahia Palace**.
Afternoon: Majorelle Garden and Souks
In the afternoon, head to the **Majorelle Garden**, a tranquil oasis filled with exotic plants and vibrant colors. Then, venture into the **souks** to shop for traditional Moroccan crafts, spices, and textiles.
Evening: Final Dinner in Marrakech
Enjoy your last dinner in Morocco at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the lively **Jemaa el-Fnaa** square. Indulge in delicious Moroccan cuisine while taking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Day 10: Departure from Marrakech
Morning: Transfer to Airport
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before preparing for your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Moroccan adventure.
Conclusion
This ten-day itinerary offers a well-rounded experience of Morocco, showcasing its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the bustling streets of Casablanca to the serene dunes of the Sahara, every stop on this journey reveals a new facet of this captivating country. Whether you’re exploring ancient medinas, trekking through mountains, or savoring local cuisine, Morocco promises to be an adventure you will cherish for years to come. book your 10 days morocco tour from Casablanca now .
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