12 Day Morocco itinerary

Welcome to Morocco! Your 12 Day Morocco itinerary starts just after, clearing customs, you will be met by an experienced driver from Moroccan Trips who will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure for rest and relaxation. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to walk along the Corniche or visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques and an architectural masterpiece situated right on the coast. This is just a glimpse of the exciting journey ahead, filled with Morocco’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. Stay the for the night in a charming hotel near the impressive Mosque.

This morning, after breakfast, we depart for Rabat, the picturesque capital city of Morocco. Upon arrival, you’ll explore Rabat’s historical sites and visit iconic attractions including the Kasbah of the Udayas, Hassan Tower. Take a leisurely stroll through Rabat’s peaceful medina and along the scenic Bouregreg River. Afterward, enjoy a regional lunch before continuing on to the charming blue city of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains. In Chefchaouen wander at the famous, blue-washed streets, browsing artisan shops, sipping coffee in cozy cafes, or haggling for Berber silverware at one of the city’s local markets. End the day with a relaxed dinner and spend the night overlooking the stunning mountain views of Chefchaouen.

Enjoy a full day to explore the charm of Chefchaouen at your own pace. Wander through the blue-painted alleys of the medina, shop for local handicrafts such as woven textiles and pottery, or simply relax at a café overlooking the main square. For the more adventurous, guided hikes into the surrounding Rif Mountains offer panoramic views and hidden waterfalls. Whether you choose to take it easy and soak in the laid-back atmosphere, indulge in traditional Moroccan cuisine, or set out on an adventure, the day is yours to enjoy in this beautiful mountain town.

After breakfast, enjoy one last stroll through the blue alleys of Chefchaouen before continuing your Moroccan journey. Today’s first stop is Volubilis, Morocco’s best-preserved Roman ruins. Wander among the intact mosaics, towering arches, and the remains of Roman temples to imagine life in this ancient hub at the empire’s southern edge. Next, visit Meknes, where you can take a leisurely walk along its massive, fortified walls and see Bab Mansour, the most monumental of all Morocco’s imperial gateways, famously featured in countless travel vlogs. Visit also El Hedim Square, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, in addition to the Royal Stables. After lunch, head toward Fes, widely regarded as the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco. Stay the overnight in a lovely Riad.

First, visit the Royal Palace gates to admire their impressive architecture, followed by a stop at a traditional ceramic factory located just outside the city, where you can see skilled artisans at work. Then, enjoy a panoramic view of the ancient city from Borj Nord. Later, step into the UNESCO-recognized medina a vast labyrinth of narrow lanes filled with market stalls, religious schools (madrassas), and artisans’ workshops.

Visit the University of Al Quaraouiyine, which has been in continuous operation for over eight centuries, and witness the traditional leather tanning process at the colorful Chouara Tanneries. As you walk through the streets, rich in Islamic architecture, take a moment, to admire how this vibrant city was designed for living by pilgrims from around the world in medieval times. Remarkably, it remains just as alive to this day.

Today’s journey meanders through the beautiful Middle Atlas Mountains and offers a welcome visual change of pace. First, we pause in Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture and exceptional cleanliness it’s also home to Al al-Qarawiyyin University. Then we head to the Cedar Forest to see wild Barbary apes. The journey continues via the apple capital of Midelt and along the stunning peaks of the Middle Atlas Mountains. In the late afternoon, we arrive Merzouga, where you will ride camels and take a one-hour trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi before reaching your desert camp. Enjoy a breathtaking sunset over the endless sands and spend the night sleeping under the stars.

Start your day with a stunning sunrise over the golden Sahara dunes, a moment that truly captures the desert’s magic. After breakfast at the camp, your driver will take you on a 4-hour desert adventure. Visit a nomadic family living in traditional tents and share tea while learning about their simple, resilient lifestyle. Continue to the M’ifis mines, once rich in minerals, then on to Khamlia Village to enjoy the spiritual music of the Gnawa people. For lunch, enjoy a delicious homemade Berber pizza. End with a peaceful walk in a quiet desert oasis before heading to your hotel to relax and enjoy the fresh desert air.

Enjoy your breakfast in Merzouga, then leave the golden dunes. Today first point of interest will be Rissani, a busy market town that almost seems as though it was the gateway to desert and it used to serve as the ancient capital of Tafilalt region. Wander the crammed souk, a-bustle with colors and activity on market days, and historic centre of camel caravan trade. Afterwards you will ascend from the desert plains through fertile valleys planted with numerous palm trees to the stunningly beautiful Todgha Gorges, a series of limestone river canyons flanked by high cliffs that in places reach up to 300 meters.

Walk down into the gorge and admire its natural beauty, along with the rock climbers scaling its steep cliffs. From here, continue to the Dades Valley, driving along winding mountain roads while taking in some of the most dramatic views in Morocco. A striking contrast of red volcanic rock, lush oases, and Berber villages set against an ancient landscape. Spend the night at a guesthouse or hotel in the valley, located within a mountain wildlife area.

This morning, you’ll journey through the spectacular Dades Valley, also known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” where ancient mudbrick kasbahs dot the landscape. Descending into the Valley of Roses, you’ll pass through endless fields of fragrant roses. Especially vibrant in spring, when their petals are harvested for oils, soaps, and perfumes. Thereafter, we continue to Ouarzazate often called the “Hollywood of Africa.” This small town is famous for its film studios and desert-like landscapes featured in productions such as Gladiator, Game of Thrones and many others.

Nearby lies the ancient ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, one of the best-preserved fortified villages in Morocco and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its narrow alleys and mudbrick towers perched on a hill above a dry riverbed, it’s a cinematic marvel that seems frozen in time. After your visit, drive over the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass 2,200 meters high crossing the majestic High Atlas Mountains. In the afternoon, descend from your high-altitude retreat and make the way to Marrakech. Upon arrival, check in to your Riad and enjoy a leisurely evening to unwind after a day of discovery.

Spend the day exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech. With your local guide, begin at the iconic Koutoubia Mosque,then continue to the Bahia Palace, an elegant 19th-century residence known for its intricate carvings, lush gardens, and colorful tilework. Visit the Saadian Tombs. Next, dive into the heart of the medina. A maze of narrow alleys lined with souks bursting with spices, textiles, lanterns, leather goods, and more.

Your guide will help you uncover hidden corners and unique finds that most travelers miss. Finish the guided tour in Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the beating heart of Marrakech, where snake charmers, street performers, and food stalls create a lively atmosphere. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time: relax in a traditional hammam, sip mint tea at a rooftop café, or continue exploring the city’s vibrant streets at your own pace.

Today drive west to Essaouira on the coast. The journey will also involve passing through argan tree groves. Upon arrival get to explore Essaouira, a beautiful port town whose influence of the Portuguese, French and Berber are evident in the food and architecture. The fortified Medina with its white-washed walls and blue shutters are UNESCO World Heritage listed. In the afternoon there are artisan shops selling wood carvings, textiles, and jewelry or you can walk near the ramparts overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Explore the bustling fishing port, watch colorful boats unload their catch of the day, and maybe have lunch at one of the fresh seafood restaurants by the marina. Essaouira is the ideal counterpoint to Marrakech; fresh, salty air and artistic energic. Check in to your riad or hotel and enjoy the laid-back coastal spirit.

Relax over breakfast in Essaouira, then take one last stroll through the medina or along the wild Atlantic coast your chance to breathe in the fresh sea air and mingle with the locals. Afterward, drive back to Casablanca, enjoying the scenic landscapes dotted with mountains and charming small towns along this beautiful route. Once in Casablanca, you’ll have some free time to shop, visit a local café, or simply unwind before your departure. Your guide will assist you with your transfer to the airport or hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable 12 Day Morocco itinerary filled with lasting memories!

end of your 12 Day Morocco itinerary

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