12 Days Morocco Tour from Marrakech: an unforgettable adventure

📌 Overview of the 12-day trip to Morocco from Marrakech

Morocco Tour from Marrakech: Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 12-day journey that will immerse you in the breathtaking beauty, deep-rooted traditions, and rich cultural mosaic of Morocco. Designed for travelers seeking authenticity, discovery, and diversity, this carefully curated tour starts in the vibrant city of Marrakech, the beating heart of Moroccan life, and unfolds like a living tapestry through landscapes as varied as they are stunning.

From the moment you set foot in Marrakech’s lively medina—with its bustling souks, intricate palaces, and mesmerizing street performers—you’ll feel the pulse of centuries-old heritage. But this Morocco Tour from Marrakech goes far beyond the city walls. You’ll soon ascend the awe-inspiring High Atlas Mountains, where winding roads offer sweeping views of terraced fields, red-earth valleys, and remote Berber villages clinging to the cliffs.

Continue your adventure into the arid and mystical world of the Sahara Desert, where the golden dunes of Merzouga await. There, you’ll experience the magic of the desert like never before—riding camels across rolling sands, dining under starlit skies in a luxury camp, and awakening to sunrises that seem to paint the horizon in fire.

The tour also weaves through Morocco’s storied imperial cities—Fez with its labyrinthine medina and timeless traditions; Meknès with its grand gates and historic stables; and Rabat, the elegant seaside capital. Along the way, discover architectural gems such as ancient mosques, madrasas, and majestic kasbahs like the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou, a fortress frozen in time.

You’ll also travel north to Chefchaouen, the famed blue city nestled in the Rif Mountains, where each alley feels like stepping into a painting. Finally, relax in the coastal charm of Essaouira, where whitewashed buildings meet the Atlantic breeze, and the rhythm of the ocean blends with Gnawa music echoing from the medina.

This Morocco Tour from Marrakech is more than a holiday—it’s a sensory journey across history, geography, and culture. Whether you’re savoring mint tea in a tranquil riad courtyard, observing skilled artisans at work, or staring out over the boundless desert, each moment draws you closer to the authentic soul of Morocco.

📌 Cities crossed:

1. Casablanca
2. Rabat
3. Chefchaouen
4. Fès
5. Merzouga Desert
6. Ouarzazate (Ait Ben Haddou)
7. Marrakech
8. Essaouira

📌 Highlights of your adventure:

• Discover the hidden treasures of Marrakech.
• An unforgettable journey across the majestic High Atlas, winding through the legendary Tizi n’Tichka pass.
• Exploring the unforgettable kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed site.
• Adventure in the majestic Dades and Todra gorges.
• Embrace the enchantment of a camel trek and enjoy an overnight stay in a traditional Berber tent under the Merzouga stars.
• Dive into the heart of Sahara’s nomadic traditions and experience a timeless way of life.
• A walk in the heart of the verdant Ziz valley.
• In-depth cultural tour of Fez and Volubilis.
• A stroll through the lush landscapes of the enchanting Ziz Valley.
• Relaxing on the Atlantic coast in Essaouira.

📌 Detailed program of your 12-day itinerary in Morocco departing from Marrakech

► Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech

Morocco Tour from Marrakech: Welcome to the beginning of your unforgettable journey through the heart of Morocco! As soon as you arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by our friendly team who will ensure a smooth transfer to your traditional riad, nestled deep within the vibrant medina. This beautifully restored accommodation, full of Moroccan charm and elegance, will serve as your peaceful haven after your travels.

Your Moroccan adventure begins right away with your first taste of Marrakech’s legendary energy. Only moments from your riad, the legendary Jemaa el-Fna Square awaits—a UNESCO-listed cultural landmark that bursts into life as the sun begins to set. The square transforms into a fascinating open-air spectacle where snake charmers, henna artists, fire performers, musicians, and storytellers all compete for your attention in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and scents. The air is rich with the aroma of sizzling street food, freshly squeezed orange juice, and sweet pastries.

As night falls and the city glows under lantern light, you’ll have time to explore at your own pace—perhaps sip mint tea on a rooftop terrace overlooking the action or take a short stroll through the nearby souks, where artisans offer handmade treasures and spices fill the air with exotic fragrance.

After soaking in this captivating introduction to Moroccan life, return to your riad for a restful night. Your Morocco Tour from Marrakech has only just begun, and already the colors, culture, and hospitality of Morocco are sure to leave a lasting impression.

► Day 2: Guided tour of Marrakech

Morocco Tour from Marrakech: After enjoying a traditional Moroccan breakfast in the serene courtyard of your riad, your day unfolds with a deep dive into the historical and cultural wonders of Marrakech, accompanied by an experienced and passionate local guide. This immersive city tour begins with a visit to the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, an architectural marvel and spiritual symbol of the city, whose 77-meter minaret dominates the skyline.

You’ll then step into the peaceful atmosphere of the Saadian Tombs, where delicate carvings, mosaics, and centuries of royal history converge in a quiet garden sanctuary. Next, wander through the opulent rooms and intricate courtyards of the Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship that reflects the lavish lifestyle of former viziers and sultans.

As the tour continues, prepare to lose yourself in the mesmerizing labyrinth of the medina, where narrow alleyways overflow with vibrant colors, the scent of spices, the sound of craftsmen at work, and countless treasures waiting to be discovered—from handwoven carpets to ornate lanterns and traditional leather goods.

Later in the day, return to the beating heart of the city: Jemaa el-Fna square. As dusk settles over Marrakech, the square transforms into a dazzling stage of Moroccan life. Street performers light up the evening with music and stories, food stalls sizzle with delicacies, and lanterns cast a golden glow on the joyful chaos.

Dinner will be a flavorful experience, either on a rooftop terrace with a view of the square or in a cozy local restaurant tucked away in the medina. You’ll then return to your charming riad for a well-deserved night’s rest, filled with memories of a vibrant day. This is only the beginning of your Morocco Tour from Marrakech, but already, the magic is undeniable.

► Day 3: Marrakech – High Atlas – Aït Ben Haddou – Dades Valley

Morocco Tour from Marrakech: Your unforgettable journey kicks off with an awe-inspiring drive across the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the renowned Tizi n’Tichka Pass, which rises to over 2,260 meters. As you wind through scenic roads dotted with traditional Berber villages, terraced fields, and ever-changing landscapes of red earth and snow-capped peaks, the raw beauty of Morocco unfolds before your eyes.

A standout moment of the day is your visit to the legendary Ksar of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its striking earthen architecture and timeless charm. This fortified village of earthen clay architecture is one of the finest examples of pre-Saharan construction and has captivated audiences worldwide as a backdrop for major films like Gladiator, The Mummy, and even Game of Thrones. Strolling through its narrow alleys, you’ll be transported to another time, where history echoes softly from every sunbaked mudbrick wall.

The next stop takes you to Ouarzazate, affectionately known as the « Hollywood of Africa ». Here, you’ll visit the famed Atlas Studios, the largest film studio on the continent, where epic productions were brought to life against the striking desert landscape. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how this cinematic oasis has played host to dozens of international films.

From Ouarzazate, the road winds deeper into southern Morocco, taking you through the breathtaking Valley of Roses and into the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Gorge. Here, immense rock formations rise from the valley floor like ancient sculptures shaped by wind and time. You’ll spend the night in a charming hotel nestled in the heart of the gorge, where traditional Berber hospitality and spectacular natural surroundings set the tone for the next chapter of your Morocco Tour from Marrakech.

► Day 4: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert

After breakfast, your Morocco Tour from Marrakech continues toward one of the country’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders: the Todra Gorges. Carved by the Todra River, these towering canyons, with walls reaching up to 300 meters high, offer a dramatic landscape beloved by rock climbers and photographers alike. Journeying across arid plateaus and verdant oases, you’ll pass through Erfoud—often called the gateway to the desert—renowned for its ancient fossil beds, bustling date markets, and striking Saharan landscapes. The journey then takes you deeper into the desert, until the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi rise before you in Merzouga—an iconic scene of the Moroccan Sahara. At the edge of these golden dunes, settle into your desert hotel, where silence reigns and the horizon glows with shades of amber. As evening falls, find yourself captivated by one of the most magical moments of your journey: the sun setting slowly over the vast sea of sand, painting the landscape in brilliant colors.

► Day 5: Complete exploration of the Merzouga desert

Morocco Tour from Marrakech: This day promises to be one of the most memorable highlights of your entire journey, plunging you into the heart of the desert’s soul. Begin your adventure with a thrilling 4×4 safari across the vast tracks once used during the legendary Dakar Rally. The adrenaline rush of traversing such rugged terrain is matched only by the awe-inspiring views of endless dunes and rocky plateaus that stretch to the horizon.

As the morning unfolds, you’ll experience a truly authentic encounter—a warm visit with a nomadic Berber family who have preserved their traditional lifestyle in the middle of the Sahara. Sitting in a humble tent, sipping freshly brewed mint tea, you’ll gain insight into their daily life, ancestral customs, and the quiet strength it takes to live in harmony with such an unforgiving yet beautiful environment.

Next, your Morocco Tour from Marrakech leads you to the soulful village of Khamlia, a place known not for its size, but for its rhythm. This small desert hamlet is home to the Gnawa, descendants of Sub-Saharan Africans who have preserved a rich musical heritage. Let yourself be carried away by the hypnotic beats of their traditional instruments and spiritual chants during an intimate performance—a moment of pure cultural immersion.

The journey continues to Lake Srij, a surprising body of water in the middle of the desert that often welcomes migratory birds, including the elegant pink flamingos. If conditions allow, you’ll witness this natural spectacle that contrasts beautifully with the dry dunes surrounding it.

As the sun begins its descent, you’ll mount your camel for a magical ride across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, the most iconic sand sea in Morocco. This peaceful procession leads you to your Berber camp, where the silence of the desert gives way to warmth and camaraderie. As night falls, gather under a sky ablaze with stars for a traditional Moroccan dinner, followed by a mesmerizing Saharan music performance around the campfire. Tonight, under the vast celestial dome, you’ll fall asleep in your comfortable tent with the sand whispering ancient tales—an experience that defines the soul of a true Morocco desert adventure.

► Day 6: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Ifrane – Fès

Wake up early to admire a magical sunrise over the desert. After breakfast, a panoramic drive through the Ziz Valley, the Middle Atlas Mountains and the Azrou cedar forest, home to the magot monkey. Stop in Ifrane, nicknamed « The little Switzerland of Morocco », before arriving in Fez, the cultural and spiritual capital of the kingdom. Check-in at your accommodation.

► Day 7: Full-day visit to Fès

Morocco Tour from Marrakech continues today with a deep dive into the spiritual and cultural heart of the country—Fès, a city of astonishing heritage and timeless charm. Prepare for an immersive exploration of its medina, a true masterpiece of urban history and one of the largest and best-preserved medieval cities in the world, proudly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Step into this fascinating maze of narrow alleys, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old buildings, where every turn reveals a new marvel. Begin with a visit to Al Quaraouiyine University, founded in 859, and recognized as the oldest existing and continually operating educational institution in the world. Its sacred ambiance and historical importance resonate deeply, especially for those seeking authentic cultural insight.

Next, discover the architectural splendor of the Bou Inania and Attarine madrasas—religious schools adorned with detailed zellige mosaics, cedarwood carvings, and serene courtyards that reflect the artistic zenith of Marinid architecture. As you stroll along, you’ll pass ornate Andalusian fountains, where the sound of trickling water echoes through the winding streets like a timeless song.

Dive into the souks of Fès, bustling with life and color. Observe the masterful tanners in action at the renowned Chouara Tannery—one of the world’s oldest—where leather is still dyed by hand using traditional, all-natural techniques in vibrant stone vats. Then move on to the artisans’ quarters, where copper, wood, ceramics, and textiles are crafted with techniques passed down through generations.

Your Morocco Tour from Marrakech wouldn’t be complete without a walk through the Jewish Quarter (Mellah), a quieter and more spacious part of the medina that offers a glimpse into the city’s multicultural past. Admire the grandeur of the Royal Palace of Fès, with its impressive golden gates and intricate tilework, a visual testament to Moroccan craftsmanship and royal heritage.

Enjoy a delicious lunch in a traditional Moroccan restaurant, where you can savor local specialties like pastilla or a rich tagine, before having the afternoon free to explore at your own pace. Whether you choose to visit a museum, sip mint tea on a rooftop overlooking the medina, or simply wander through the vibrant streets, this day in Fès promises to be an enriching journey through Morocco’s living history.

► Day 8: Fès – Volubilis – Meknes – Chefchaouen

Your Morocco tour from Marrakech unfolds with a day steeped in history, culture, and breathtaking scenery as you travel north through the vibrant heart of the country. After enjoying a traditional Moroccan breakfast, depart for the archaeological site of Volubilis, one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you walk among the towering columns, intricate mosaics, and triumphal arches, you’ll step back in time to an era when this city served as a bustling Roman outpost on the fringes of the empire.

From there, travel to Meknès, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. Often overlooked in favor of its more renowned neighbors, Meknès stands as a hidden treasure of Moroccan heritage, rich in history and charm. Discover the grandeur of Bab Mansour, considered the most beautiful gate in the country, adorned with exquisite zellige tilework and Quranic inscriptions. Nearby lies the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the resting place of the powerful Alaouite sultan who made Meknès his capital in the 17th century. The city’s wide avenues, monumental gates, and historical medina provide a peaceful yet regal atmosphere—perfect for those seeking to trace Morocco’s imperial legacy.

After soaking in the charm of Meknès, continue your Morocco Tour from Marrakech to one of the most iconic and photogenic places in the country: Chefchaouen. Nestled in the foothills of the Rif Mountains, this legendary town enchants visitors with its cool mountain air, laid-back vibe, and narrow alleyways painted in endless shades of blue. As you arrive, check into your hotel and take some time to relax.

In the evening, you’re free to wander the blue streets at your leisure. From the quiet steps of the kasbah to the artisan shops selling woven rugs, handmade soaps, and colorful pottery, every corner of Chefchaouen feels like a page from a fairytale. Be sure to catch the breathtaking sunset from the Spanish Mosque or unwind with a glass of mint tea at a rooftop café, gazing out over the sea of blue rooftops. This serene stop offers a welcome contrast to the bustle of the imperial cities, and will surely be one of the highlights of your journey.

► Day 9: Chefchaouen – Rabat – Casablanca

Morocco Tour from Marrakech leads you into the final chapters of your incredible journey, beginning with a free morning in the enchanting town of Chefchaouen. Take this peaceful time to soak in the charm of its labyrinthine streets, where every doorway and staircase is painted in calming hues of blue. Enjoy the morning light that bathes the town in a dreamlike glow, sip a final mint tea in a shaded café, or shop for artisanal crafts, wool garments, and handmade souvenirs in the quiet, friendly souks.

As the day progresses, your tour continues toward Rabat, Morocco’s serene and sophisticated capital. Located along the Atlantic coast, Rabat offers a striking contrast with its clean boulevards, historic monuments, and relaxed pace. Upon arrival, explore the Kasbah of the Oudayas, a fortified quarter perched above the Bou Regreg River, where whitewashed houses and cobalt-blue accents echo the style of Chefchaouen. Wander through its serene Andalusian gardens and soak in the sweeping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.

Next, admire the unfinished yet monumental Hassan Tower, a 12th-century minaret that stands as a symbol of Rabat’s imperial heritage. A brief walk from here brings you to the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a stunning example of modern Alaouite architecture. Beneath its magnificent green-tiled dome lie the tombs of Morocco’s esteemed kings, solemnly guarded by royal sentinels.
In the late afternoon, your Morocco Tour from Marrakech takes you to Casablanca, the country’s economic heart and largest city. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and enjoy a final evening at your leisure. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to take a short stroll along the Corniche, the oceanfront promenade lined with cafés and restaurants, or simply relax in the comfort of your hotel, reflecting on the incredible variety of landscapes, cultures, and emotions experienced during your journey through Morocco. Overnight stay in Casablanca.

► Day 10: Casablanca – Marrakech

Morocco Tour from Marrakech : After breakfast, embark on a visit to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, an architectural masterpiece renowned as one of the largest and most breathtaking mosques globally. Marvel at its intricate craftsmanship, soaring minaret, and stunning oceanfront setting that blends tradition with modernity. Following this inspiring experience, you will travel comfortably back to Marrakech via the modern highway, enjoying scenic views along the way. Upon arrival, settle into your charming riad nestled within the historic medina. Spend the afternoon unwinding in the tranquil ambiance or take the opportunity for some free exploration of Marrakech’s vibrant streets at your own pace.

► Day 11: Marrakech – Essaouira

Enjoy a captivating day trip to the stunning coastal town of Essaouira, proudly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the bustling harbor filled with colorful fishing boats, and meander along the narrow, winding streets adorned with charming whitewashed houses accented by striking blue shutters. Explore the ancient city ramparts that offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and soak up the lively atmosphere of the vibrant fish market, where the day’s fresh catch is brought ashore. Bask in the gentle sea breeze and the town’s uniquely relaxed charm, known locally as Essaouira la Mogador. As the day comes to a close, retire to an authentic riad, where traditional Moroccan hospitality and comfort await you for a restful overnight stay.

► Day 12: Essaouira – Marrakech Airport

Morocco Tour from Marrakech: After savoring a final breakfast by the sea in the peaceful ambiance of Essaouira, your journey comes full circle with a comfortable transfer to Marrakech airport. As you make your way back, you’ll carry with you the vivid impressions of your unforgettable 12-day Morocco Tour from Marrakech — from the maze-like medinas and sun-drenched kasbahs to the golden dunes of the Sahara and the cool Atlantic breeze of Essaouira. With your heart full of stories and your camera filled with moments, you leave Morocco not just as a visitor, but as someone who has truly lived its magic.

📌 What’s included in your package with Morocco Tour from Marrakech

✅ Private transport in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle
✅ Professional driver who speaks French, English or Spanish
✅ 11 nights in authentic, charming hotels/riads
✅ Daily breakfast
✅ 3 traditional dinners (in the desert and valleys)
✅ Camel ride in the Merzouga desert
✅ Night in the Sahara in nomadic tents
✅ Official guides for visits to Marrakech, Fez and Volubilis

📌 What’s not included in your package with Morocco Tour from Marrakech

❌ International air tickets
❌ Lunches and drinks
❌ Gratuities and personal expenses
❌ Entrance tickets to monuments

Book your 12 Days Morocco Tour from Marrakech now!
Explore, feel, vibrate to the rhythm of authentic Morocco.