Morocco 10-day tour from Tangier to Casablanca

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tangier

Your adventure begins as you arrive in the dynamic city of Tangier, located at the crossroads of Africa and Europe. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, start exploring Tangier’s vibrant medina, characterized by its labyrinthine alleys, bustling souks, and the historic Kasbah. Visit the Kasbah Museum, which houses artifacts tracing Morocco’s rich history, and the American Legation Museum, the first U.S. diplomatic property outside of the United States. Stroll along the lively Corniche, where you’ll enjoy views of the Mediterranean and the Strait of Gibraltar. In the evening, savor a delicious Moroccan dinner at a local restaurant, immersing yourself in the unique culture of this port city before retiring to your hotel for the night.

Day 2: Tangier – Chefchaouen

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive through the Rif Mountains to the picturesque blue-washed town of Chefchaouen, a jewel of northern Morocco. The town’s blue hues and relaxed ambiance create a tranquil atmosphere. Spend the day wandering Chefchaouen’s narrow streets, where blue walls contrast with colorful textiles and local crafts on display. Explore Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the town’s central square, which is lined with cafés and offers the perfect spot to relax. Visit the Kasbah Museum and its beautiful gardens, where you’ll learn about the region’s Andalusian and Berber heritage. For those seeking stunning views, a short hike to the Spanish Mosque at sunset provides a breathtaking panorama of the city and surrounding mountains. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant before settling into your riad for a peaceful night.

Day 3: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

After a morning stroll in Chefchaouen, you will depart for the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning mosaics, grand arches, and temples. As you wander through the ruins, imagine the bustling Roman city that once thrived here, with its basilica, triumphal arch, and residential quarters. Afterward, continue to the imperial city of Meknes, renowned for its majestic gates and impressive architecture. Visit Bab Mansour, one of the grandest gates in Morocco, and explore the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the resting place of the sultan who made Meknes his capital. You’ll also see the impressive Royal Stables, built to house thousands of horses. In the late afternoon, head to Fes, the spiritual heart of Morocco, where you’ll check into your riad for the night, preparing for the next day’s exploration of this historic city.

Day 4: Fes – Explore the Medina

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Fes with a full-day guided tour of its ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s largest and most intact medieval cities. Begin at the iconic Al-Qarawiyyin University, founded in 859 AD and recognized as the oldest university in the world. Continue to the exquisite Bou Inania Madrasa, a masterpiece of Marinid architecture with its intricate tilework and carvings. A visit to the Chouara Tannery offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditional leather-dyeing process, where craftsmen work in centuries-old stone vats. Wander through the medina’s bustling souks, filled with spices, textiles, ceramics, and metalwork. In the afternoon, visit the Mellah (Jewish Quarter) and the gates of the Royal Palace before enjoying a panoramic view of the medina from the Merenid Tombs. Return to your riad for a relaxing evening after an enriching day.

Day 5: Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Merzouga

After an early breakfast, depart Fes and embark on a journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Your first stop is the charming town of Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its alpine architecture and European feel. Continue through cedar forests to the town of Azrou, where you may encounter Barbary macaque monkeys. Traveling further south, the landscape transforms as you cross the Ziz Valley, with its vast palm groves and towering cliffs. In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Here, you’ll trade your vehicle for a camel trek, venturing into the stunning dunes of Erg Chebbi. Watch the sunset over the rolling sand dunes before reaching your Berber camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner under a blanket of stars. Spend the night in a comfortable tent, experiencing the magic of the desert.

Day 6: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley

Wake up early to witness the spectacular sunrise over the Sahara, watching as the first light paints the dunes in shades of gold and orange. After breakfast, return to Merzouga by camel and depart for the Todra Gorge, passing through the town of Rissani, where you can visit the lively market and see the Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, the founder of the Alaouite dynasty. Arriving at Todra Gorge, take a walk along the towering canyon walls that rise over 300 meters high, creating a dramatic natural setting. Continue your journey through the Dades Valley, known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs” for its many fortified villages. Along the way, marvel at the unusual rock formations and lush greenery of the valley. You’ll spend the night in a local guest house nestled in the gorge, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner.

Day 7: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

After breakfast, continue your journey through the Dades Valley, heading toward Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco” due to its film studios and famous movie locations. Visit the impressive Kasbah Taourirt, a former palace of the Glaoui family, and explore the old fortified sections. From here, drive to the famous Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic ksars (fortified villages). Known for its striking mud-brick architecture, Ait Ben Haddou has been featured in films like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia. After exploring the ksar, cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka pass, with its panoramic views of valleys and villages. In the evening, arrive in the bustling city of Marrakech and check into your riad for the night.

Day 8: Marrakech – Guided Tour

Today, explore the vibrant city of Marrakech with a guided tour that showcases its rich history and lively atmosphere. Begin with a visit to the Koutoubia Mosque, whose towering minaret is a symbol of the city. Continue to the exquisite Bahia Palace, known for its stunning mosaics and tranquil courtyards. Visit the Saadian Tombs, an ancient royal necropolis hidden for centuries and rediscovered in the early 20th century. Wander through the bustling souks of the medina, where artisans sell everything from spices and textiles to lanterns and ceramics. End your day in the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where snake charmers, musicians, storytellers, and food stalls create a lively spectacle. After a full day of exploration, return to your riad to relax.

Day 9: Marrakech – Essaouira

After breakfast, take a day trip to the coastal town of Essaouira, known for its laid-back atmosphere, historic ramparts, and stunning ocean views. En route, stop at an Argan oil cooperative, where you’ll learn about the production of this prized oil. Upon arrival in Essaouira, explore the town’s charming medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its white-washed buildings and blue shutters. Walk along the Skala de la Kasbah, the city’s fortified sea wall, and enjoy the bustling fish market. You’ll have time to relax on the beach or explore the town’s art galleries and handicraft shops. In the evening, return to Marrakech for your last night in the city.

Day 10: Marrakech – Casablanca Departure

On your final day, take a leisurely breakfast before departing for Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and economic hub. Finally, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure, marking the end of an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.