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The Best 14-Day Itinerary for Exploring Morocco

Embark on an unforgettable journey as you explore the enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture of Morocco. This meticulously crafted 14-day itinerary takes you through the heart of Morocco’s most captivating destinations, from the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene sands of the Sahara Desert. Discover the rich history of ancient cities like Fes, marvel at the stunning architecture of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, and wander through the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen. Whether you’re riding a camel across the golden dunes or savouring traditional Moroccan cuisine, this itinerary promises the adventure of a lifetime. Join us as we unveil our ultimate guide to experiencing the best 14 day itinerary for exploring Morocco.

We spent two weeks exploring Morocco combining a 12-day Moroccan Dream Tour by Travel Talk with 2 days exploring Marrakesh prior to the start of the tour.

Sahara Desert Camel Ride
Sahara Desert Camel Ride

You can use this itinerary to plan your own self tour of Marrakech – I will give you options for tours available or you can also book a Travel Talk Tour.

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Check out the highlights of our 12 days in Morocco here:

12 days Morocco with Travel Talk Tours video

Our 14-day Morocco Itinerary

Day One – arrival in Marrakesh – accommodation at the Marrakesh Riad Angsana Collection

Read our review here

Day Two – Souks and Fondouks Walking Tour in Marrakesh’s Medina (read our review here)

Day Three – In the morning a visit to a Hamman.  The start of the Moroccan Dream Tour in the evening

Day Four – Marrakesh to Essaouira

Day Five – Essaouira to Casablanca

Day Six – Casablanca to Rabat, Chefchaouen and overnight at Tetouan

Day Seven – Depart Tetouan to Chefchaouen, Meknes, Volubilis, Moulay Driss to Fes

Day Eight – Fes

Day Nine – Fes to Merzouga

Day Ten – Merzouga

Day Eleven – Merzouga to Todra and Dades Valley

Day Twelve – Dades Valley to Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Hadou

Day Thirteen – Marrakesh

Day Fourteen – depart Marrakesh

Day One – Arrival in Marrakesh

We flew British Airways from London Heathrow to Marrakesh – a short flight of under 3 hours. There are many flights available to Marrakesh from Europe and the Middle East.

We had read so many stories about the long delays arriving and departing Marrakesh up to 3 or 4 hours. Our flight arrived around 2 pm and there was only one other flight that had arrived around that time which meant that we had no delays at immigration or at the baggage carousel.

Travel tip: when departing Marrakesh arrive at least 3 hours before departure – there are quite a few checkpoints to go through.

Good to know:  If you are purchasing a physical sim card you must pay cash.  I trialled an e-sim from e-simatic which had great coverage throughout Morocco and I could hot spot to my laptop for banking and emails.

As the Medinas are a maze we booked a private transfer from the airport to our Riad. There is a small general car park about a 2 minute walk from the Riad where your transport drops you off. Our driver called the Riad and we were escorted to Reception.

Our Riad accommodation
Bedroom at our Riad

Our two-night accommodation was in Riad Zaouia from the Marrakesh Riads Angsana Heritage Collection in the Marrakesh Medina.  The Riad Zaouia was originally a religious and educational establishment that housed students and travellers.

The Riad was large spread over two floors.  The lounge room had a very comfortable lounge, open fireplace, TV and coffee and tea-making facilities. Water was provided in the Riad but available from a water fountain on the 2nd level. The king-size bed was comfortable with luxury linen provided. The bathroom had a Moroccan tiled bath and shower with luxury toiletries provided. Our riad looked over the courtyard where a delicious Moroccan breakfast was served daily. There is a rooftop area where you can enjoy the view over the Medina sit and read a book or just relax. Stunning accommodation! Just what we imagined our Riad to look and feel.

You check in at the Riad Si Said and then taken to your Riad. Riad Zaouia was located about 1 minute’s walk away.

At check-in, we were served mint tea and sweet treats in one of their beautifully Moroccan-decorated small rooms off the restaurant.

Restaurant Si Said
Restaurant Si Said

Riad Si Said has the group’s restaurant and we can highly recommend it. Make sure you book in advance. Moroccan cuisine is a mix of Arabic and Amazigh flavours and textures.  The restaurant uses all local produce and only imports tea, coffee and chocolate. The crockery used in the Restaurant is made by master craftsmen from the region of Marrakesh, Fez and Tamegrut and the glassware is recycled in Marrakesh.

There is a small pool at Riad Si Said that is available for swimming. We sat around the pool and enjoyed an evening cocktail before dinner.

Click here to book a Riad from the Angsana Heritage Collection

 

Travel tip for wandering through the Medina: The laneways are too small for cars to manoeuvre but as you will soon see they are fine for many motorbikes and small tractors with trailers.  Make sure you always walk on the right-hand side of the alleyway in the direction you are going.

Getting lost? Prepare to get lost on your first and even 2nd outing from your Riad.  Ask Reception to show you on a map the easiest way to get back to your accommodation as Google Maps does not work very well.  The Riad gave us a local mobile phone to contact them if we were lost.

After resting for a while we had drinks beside the pool at the Riad Si Said and had one of the best meals in Morocco at their Restaurant.

Day Two – Souks and Fondouks Walking Tour

When we arrive in a new location we always book a walking tour or a hop on hop off bus to get our bearings.

The Souks and Fondouks Tour would enable us to enjoy the maze of the medina with an experienced guide.  The tour guide met us outside Cafe de France in the main square – Jamaa-el-Fnna. Imagine many other tours meeting at the same place at the same time.  It was rather chaotic! Eventually, we found our guide and our small group of  8 ventured off into the main square heading towards the iconic Koutoubia Mosque. (You can read our tour review here)

Medina at Marrakesh
Marrakesh Medina

The word ‘medina’ means old walled city.  Marrakesh’s Medina was inscribed in 1985 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It dates back to the 11th century. For the next three hours, we wandered through the medina tasting olives and learning about the history of the medina and its artisans. One of the many highlights of the tour was visiting Herbalism – an Argan Oil and Spice shop, learning about the making of Argan Oil and other oils as well as spices including the rather expensive Saffron. If you want to purchase a tagine have a guide with you to take you to one of the artisans who can explain the difference between a terracotta tagine and a colourful ceramic one for cooking and decoration before you spend your money. Our guide showed us one of the best places to buy a terracotta tagine for cooking.

A fondouk (aka caravanserai) is a medieval hostel for travellers and merchants.  It would be several storeys high built around a central courtyard.  Animals would be housed on the ground floor where there would be water fountains and weighing machines for the purchasing of goods.  The upper levels were used for storage and accommodation. There are 140 fondouks in the medina of Marrakesh.

Book your Souks and Foundouks Marrakech Tour here

Evening: Dine out at one of the many rooftop restaurants in Marrakesh such as Nomad.

All the reviews I had read about Nomad lived up to the hype. Excellent views, great service and great food.

Day Three – A 1.5-hour visit to the Angsana Riad’s Hamman and the start of the Morrocan Dream Tour in the evening

A visit to the Hamman
A visit to the Hamman

A morning spent at the Hamman is like no other morning.  Have you experienced a Hamman? The Angsana group have several  Riad’s in Marrakesh one of which housed the Hamman.

The first part of our private Hamman experience was to choose one of their fragrant oils for the 1-hour massage after the body scrub. You are ushered into a changing room given disposable underpants, slippers and a gown and shown to the Hamman room. There is a stone bench that is heated to lay on. Within minutes my body was being scrubbed with their traditional soap known as savon noir. You are left alone for a while and on the return you are washed with hot and then cold water. The cold water was quite a shock but my body had never felt so clean and tingly.

The 1 hour massage that followed was heavenly and you drift in and out of sleep.  At the end of the experience, you are served herbal tea and a cake-like biscuit.  The Hamman experience should not be missed when in Morocco. You can have a private one or a public one – my preference always would be the private experience.

Another alternative Hamman Experience can be booked here

Be welcomed into a warm and calm atmosphere, imbued with the captivating scent of mint. Treat yourself to traditional hammam treatments, such as a black soap scrub or an argan oil massage. Allow experienced therapists to meet your individual needs. After your hammam session, relax in an oasis of calm, where you can sip mint tea and savour sweet Moroccan cuisine (not included in the price). Let time pass slowly while enjoying the ambience. End the day having had an unforgettable experience steeped in authentic traditions and warm hospitality.

Our Moroccan Dream Tour with Travel Talk

We don’t normally do group tours, our style is slow travel spending at least 4 nights in each location.  Morocco was different.  We only had just under 2 weeks before we headed to San Sebastian in Spain for TBEX a travel conference.

Travel Talk’s Moroccan Dream Tour of 12 days was close to the itinerary that we had planned for Morocco.  We thought why not let someone else organise the transport, accommodation, activities etc whilst we sat back and enjoyed the country and its beautiful people. Although they say a 12-day tour it is in essence only 10 days. The first day is a meet and greet in the evening and the last day is the day of departure after breakfast in the hotel.

Day one of the tour is the evening meet and greet at 7 pm in the lobby of the Blue Sea Le Printemps – a 4-star hotel (the first night’s accommodation) which is popular with groups. It has a pool and restaurant.

Abdul our guide explained more about the tour and the expectations of the group.  There were about 29 of us in total. A group dinner was available that evening (at your own cost) or you can explore around the hotel.  The hotel was located in the outer Marrakesh suburb of Gueliz. We decided to explore around the hotel and found a local restaurant for dinner. Many of the group enjoyed a dinner in the Medina.

Accommodation Blue Sea Le Printemps

A comfortable 4-star hotel with a pool and restaurant. The breakfast buffet was good.  It is a busy hotel with many groups using it as their base in Marrakesh.

You can book a room at the Blue Sea Le Printemps here

If you are organising your own adventures through Morocco there is a large range of accommodation in Marrakech available.

Book your Marrakech accommodation here. Our recommendation is to book accommodation close to the Medina or inside it to experience the vibrancy of it.

Day Four (Day 2 of the Moroccan Dream Tour)

Our team of three from Travel Talk consisted of our guide Abdul, Mohammad our driver and the bus attendant.  Abdul was highly praised as a guide in the many reviews of Travel Talk tours in Morocco, we knew we were in good hands.  Also, one of the group had previously enjoyed the same tour and brought her Mother along this time but had insisted that she wanted to book the tour only if Abdul was the guide.

Menara Gardens Marrakesh
Menara Gardens Marrakesh

Our morning started with a visit to the 12th-century Menara Gardens which were constructed by the Almohad Dynasty. In the 16th century, a large pool and a pavilion were added.  The grounds contain hundreds of olive trees some between 400 – 500 years old and a small number of orangefruit trees. Oranges are grown to preserve the olives, for dry skin lotions and for perfumes.

Water was channelled underground from the Atlas Mountains to irrigate the gardens.

A visit to Koutoubia Mosque should be on everyone’s itinerary. The 12th-century mosque was constructed in the Andalusian and Islamic style and built over a previous mosque that was destroyed by an earthquake.  Koutoubia is the Arabic word for bookseller, the mosque was built close to a book market. The Minaret stands 77m tall and is your point of reference when wandering through and getting lost in the Medina.

A visit to the Koutoubia Mosque and other monuments in Marrakech can be taken on this tour – for more details click here

  • Explore the medieval streets of Marrakech through its ornate palaces and courtyards
  • Discover one of the largest mosques of the western Muslim world
  • Marvel at the ornate mausoleums of the Saadi Dynasty
  • Visit Djamaa El Fna Square
  • Explore the different souks of the Old Medina Market
Bahia Palace Marrakesh
Bahia Palace Marakesh

The Bahia Palace was built for Si Moussa, the Grand Vizir of the Sultan during 1866-1867.  The Palace is spread over 2 acres and consists of 150 rooms. Lush gardens are made up of fruit trees e.g. figs, oranges, rosemary and evergreen trees and a garden grown with medicinal plants. Rooms are rectangular and are made with cedar wood that does not expand with the heat. Ceramic tiles are used on the floors as they can resist heat up to 800 degrees.

Option: Book your own guided tour of the Bahia Palace here


Trivia Fact

If you hit a palm tree in Morocco with your car and the tree falls you are fined.

Our next destination and where we spent the first night is Essaouira 187 km from Marrakesh taking us approximately 3 hours. On the way we stop at the Argan Womens Cooperative (Arganomade) where we learnt about the making of Argan Oil, Morocco’s wonder oil which is used in skin care and cooking.  Argan trees are found in the south-west region of Morocco.  The oil is produced by Amazigh-speaking Berber women. Argan trees look similar to olive trees producing a small green fruit.  The process for making this expensive oil starts with the drying of the argan fruit in the sun, and then the women peel and mash the fruit before crushing and grinding it.

Essaouira
Essaouira harbour

Essaouira is known as the ‘windy city’ and it certainly is that.  Apparently, the wind blows 300 days each year but it does not deter the 75 – 80k population from making Essaouira their home.  The city was once known as Mogador, the small island of the same name protects the bay from the strong winds. The area is popular for windsurfing.

Essaouira Medina
Essaouira Medina

The best time to visit Essaouira is at sunset where you can dine in one of the several restaurants with stunning views over the coast and town.  We enjoyed one of the best fish dishes at dinner at il Mare whilst enjoying the sunset. The restaurant was full with groups enjoying the sunset and the food. The service was excellent. We would definitely recommend a visit.

Our accommodation: the 4-star Hotel Des Iles. (only a 6.6 rating on booking.com)

In times gone by this hotel would have been the star of Essaouira.  Our room by the pool was not of a 4-star standard. The swimming pool looked like a bird bath for the seagulls and not for guests. The breakfast was ok. Our room did not have air-conditioning or a small fridge.  The location was good for exploring the Medina.

Day Trip from Marrakesh to Essaouira

You can book a day tour – full details here:

Explore the charming coastal city of Essaouira on a day trip from Marrakesh.

Enjoy some free time to explore, where you can see the bustling port of Essaouira, stroll through the lively medina of the city, and wander through the vibrant markets.

Start your morning with a pickup from your accommodation in Marrakesh. Travel in comfort in an air-conditioned car to Essaouira. Arrive in Essaouira and make your way through the straight streets. Enjoy free time visiting historic ports and bustling seafood markets. Feel free to ask your driver for suggestions on the perfect place for lunch.

Visit a co-operative of Berber women who produce Argan oil, and learn about this popular local product. See the old bronze cannons facing the Atlantic Ocean and wander through the colourful markets and cedar woodworking shops.  After your day in Essaouira, enjoy a seamless transfer back to Marrakesh in the evening.

For bookings click here: 

Day 5 (Day 3 of the Mororrocan Dream Tour)

Today our journey took us from Essaouira to Casablanca a distance of 340 km and approximately 5 hours of driving time. Casablanca is the economic capital of Morocco with a population of 6 million.  You can tell this as you drive through the city, a very different city to Marrakesh and Essaouira.  It is also very expensive to live there. Casablanca has the 2nd largest harbour and the 2nd largest airport.  The name Casablanca means ‘white house’.

Hassan II Mosque
Hassan II Mosque

Our first stop was the Hassan II Mosque, the largest in all of Africa. Before entering the Mosque we were taken to a photographic spot where the best photos of the Mosque can be taken from across the bay. The Mosque was constructed between 1987 and 1993 and cost between 700 – 800 million USD. The tower stands at 210 m. Our visit to the Mosque included a guided tour. 80,000 pray outside and 25,000 pray inside (20,000 men and 5,000 women who pray in the upstairs balcony). Prayers are carried out 5 times a day – before sunrise, noon, afternoon after 5, after sunset and 1.40 hours after sunset.  The Muhadin calls the prayer and the Iman is the head of the Mosque.

Casablanca Medina
Casablanca Medina

We checked into our 4-star Diwan Hotel before heading out for a walk through the medina that was rebuilt by Mohammaed 3rd in 1778.  Casablanca was founded in the 10th century and was originally known as Anfar.

Accommodation: Diwan Hotel 4-star

The hotel is more like a business 3-star hotel. The location was good for exploring the Medina.  The room could have been cleaner. We had a problem with our electronic key and had to wait a few hours before IT could hack into our room to open the door. Breakfast was disappointing.

For alternative accommodation in Casablanca click here

You can book a day tour from Marrakesh to Casablanca.  Your tour includes:

Welcome to Casablanca, a vibrant city with rich history and cultural landmarks. After picking you up from your hotel or a meeting point in the city centre of Marrakech start your day trip to Casablanca.

The first stop will be to have a break and to have your breakfast before going to the impressive Cathedral Sacred Heart, a magnificent architectural marvel that showcases the city’s colonial past. Afterwards, you will head towards Place Mohamed 5, which is conveniently located near the United Nations Square. Here, you’ll have approximately 20 minutes to explore the area appreciate its historical significance and take photos.

Next on the itinerary is the highlight of your trip, the renowned Mosque Hassan 2 which is not only a religious site but also an architectural masterpiece that symbolizes the modernity and grandeur of Morocco. Named after King Hassan II, the mosque is a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and Islamic traditions. Constructed in the late 20th century, the mosque took over six years to complete and involved the skills of thousands of craftsmen and artisans. The interior is adorned with beautiful mosaics, intricate woodwork, and exquisite marble floors, creating a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The prayer hall boasts a retractable roof, allowing natural light to flood in and creating a sense of harmony between the spiritual and natural elements. (fee of 12€ PP).

Following the visit to the mosque, you will have a well-deserved lunch to savour some delicious Moroccan cuisine, immersing yourself in the flavours of the local culture.

Afterwards, have a relaxation time at one of Casablanca’s stunning beaches as a last point before leaving this historical city. As the day ends, you will embark on your return journey to Marrakech, cherishing the memories of an unforgettable day filled with exploration, cultural immersion, and the allure of Casablanca’s unique charm.

To book your day trip click here

Day 6 (Day 4 of the Moroccan Dream Tour)

A long day of travelling visiting Rabat, Chefchaouen and then overnighting at the town of Tetouan.

Rabat is located 1.05 hours from Casablanca and has been the capital of Morocco since 1912.  What a surprise Rabat was, we definitely could have stayed longer here. It is such a clean and modern city and also a ‘green’ city. It is the 2nd largest city in Morocco with a population of 2 million.

Royal Palace Rabat
Royal Palace Rabat

We started our tour of Rabat by visiting the Royal Palace. It was built in the 18th century and is the office of King Mohammed the 6th.  It is spread over 5 acres and has accommodation for its 500 + staff, a royal school, a cookery school and a library. It is not open to the public, but you can stroll through the gardens. King Mohammed does not live here with his family but uses this for important meetings and engagements.

Mohammed V Mausoleum
Mohammed V Mausoleum

The next stop is the very impressive Mohammed V Mausoleum built between 1962 and 1971.  The Mausoleum is dedicated to the late Mohammed V – his tomb is the largest of the 3, the other 2 belonging to his sons Hassan 2 and Prince Abdullah. The Mausoleum is guarded by several guards.  If you would like to take a photo just ask them. The main entrances to the complex are guarded by soldiers on horseback.

The Hassan Tower within the grounds of the Mausoleum had the same architect as the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh.  It stands at 44m high.

Opposite the grounds in the distance, you can see the Mohammed VI Tower that stands at 250m high, and 55 storeys. It will house a hotel, offices, residential and retail.

Kasbah Rabat
Kasbah Rabat

A guided walking tour finishes our time in Rabat visiting the Kasbah that overlooks the Bouregreg River. It was constructed during the 12th century as a military base it is now a residential area.

You can book a day tour from Casablanca to Rabat here

Travel from Casablanca on a full-day trip to Rabat, the capital of Morocco. The city tour begins at Dar El Makhzen, the Royal Palace, with a stop to admire the exterior. The palace houses the prime minister’s office, the Imperial College, the Ahl Fas mosque, a small racetrack and the barracks of the Black Guard.

See the Mohamed V University and walk past the Hassan Tower. Visit the Mohamed V Mausoleum and marvel at the tiles decorating the walls of the burial chamber. Continue on to the Kasbah. Walk along the Rue des Consuls, the architecturally most interesting street. Browse the shops lining Souika Street, the busiest shopping street in Rabat’s medina.

For bookings click here


On our way to Chefchaouen, we stopped off for a delicious lunch at the Restaurant Le Pergola where the group enjoyed a variety of tagines in the garden overlooking the pool at Motel Rif.

Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen was founded in 1471 by Moulay Ali Ben Rachid, a descendant of the Idrisid dynasty, along with exiles from Spain. The town served as a fortress to protect against Portuguese invasions and to control the Berber tribes in the region. Its strategic location in the Rif Mountains made it an ideal stronghold.

Why is Chefchaouen’s buildings painted blue?

There are a few theories.

  1. Following the Spanish Reconquista and the expulsion of Jews from Spain in 1492, many Jewish families fled to Morocco. They are believed to have painted the buildings blue to symbolize the sky and heaven, reminding them of God. This practice helped to keep their faith and cultural identity alive in their new home.
  2. Another practical theory suggests that blue paint helps repel mosquitoes. The blue colour is thought to mimic the appearance of flowing water, which mosquitoes tend to avoid.
  3. The blue colour may also help keep the buildings cooler during the hot summer months. The color blue is known to absorb less heat than darker colours, which can help maintain a cooler indoor temperature in the region’s warm climate.

Whichever theory you believe the blue colours of Chefchouen make it a photographer’s delight.

Our time spent in Chefchouen that afternoon was on a walking tour and then we had a few hours to ourselves before boarding the bus for our overnight stay in Tetouan – 1.5 hours away. As there is no suitable accommodation for groups in Chefchouen, spending the night at Tetouan is the alternative.

Chefchouen is stunning and should not be missed.

There is only one bar in Chefchouen – Oum Rabie at Bd Hassan 2.

For restaurants head to the main square – Uta el-Hamman.  Some of the rooftop bars are quite expensive and they may say they sell beer for those wanting to enjoy the sunsets.  Beware they don’t sell beer!

Accommodation: Hotel La Paloma – 4 star Tetouan.

We arrived late at Hotel La Paloma and left early so could not comment on the location as we were not spending any time in Tetouan. The room was ok and breakfast acceptable.

For accommodation alternatives in Chefchaouen click here

For accommodation alternatives in Tetouan click here

You can book a 4 day tour from Marrakesh:

Travel on an exhilarating 4-day journey from Marrakech to Chefchaouen, via Fez, Rabat, and Casablanca. travel in the comfort of a private vehicle, and spend 3 nights in a comfortable hotel.

Day 1 : Marrakech – Atlas Mountains – Ifrane – Fes Begin your journey from Marrakech, travelling through the majestic Atlas Mountains. Along the way, soak in the breathtaking scenery and stop at Beni Mellal, where you can admire the lush landscapes and visit the picturesque dam. Continue your drive, passing through Azrou, known for its captivating cedar forests inhabited by Barbary macaques. Pause in Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” to marvel at its European-style architecture. Finally, arrive in Fez, one of Morocco’s oldest and most fascinating cities, where you’ll spend the first night.

Day 2: Exploring Fes Medina Your entire day will be devoted to visiting Fez, the oldest imperial city and religious capital of Morocco. You will visit the medieval medina, the Bou Anania and Attarine Medersas, and the entrance to the Qarawiyyin Mosque, one of the oldest universities in the world (9th century). Then you will see the superb Nejjarine fountain, as well as the most beautiful souks in Morocco, after visiting. Return to your Riad in Fez, dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3 : Fez – Chefchaouen After breakfast, Travel through the mountains of Rif to the beautiful Berber city of Chefchaouen. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide spend your time exploring the whitewashed streets of Chaouen, Spend the afternoon wandering through its narrow streets adorned with vibrant hues, immersing yourself in its unique charm. Overnight in Chefchaouen.

Day 4 : Chefchaouen – Rabat – Casablanca – Marrakech Depart Chefchaouen and head towards Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. Explore Rabat’s rich history and cultural heritage as you visit iconic landmarks such as the Kasbah of the Udayas and Hassan Tower. Continue your journey to Casablanca, where you’ll visit the majestic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. depart Casablanca and make your way back to Marrakech, where you’ll conclude your unforgettable journey. Reflect on the experiences and memories you’ve made as you journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, leaving with a newfound appreciation for this enchanting country.

For bookings click here: 

Day 7 (Day 5 of our Moroccan Dream Tour) Tetouan, Chefchaouen, Volubilis, Fes

After breakfast, we headed back to Chefchouen to spend a few more hours.  Some of the artisan shops had not opened as we arrived so many of the group enjoyed coffee at one of the many restaurants.

The city of Meknes (one of the four Royal cities of Morocco) was originally part of the tour but as the city is undergoing major renovations and all the major sites affected we headed to the ancient Berber ruins of Volubilis.

Volubilis
Volubilis

32km from Meknes is Volubilis which was founded in the 3rd century BCE as a Phoenician and later a Carthaginian settlement.

The Romans annexed the city in approximately 42 CE, under Emperor Claudius. 20,000 people lived here during this time and it became a major agricultural site for the growing of olives, wheat etc. The city saw a decline during the 3rd century and saw a brief resurgence during the 8th century. When Fes became the capital of Morocco Volubilis fell into decline once more until the 18th century. Excavations began in the 20th century and the 42-hectare site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.

Visitors can enjoy visiting the site with a guided tour of the Basilica, the Capitoline Temple, the Triumphal Arch, houses, mosaics and more.

94 km driving distance from Volubilis to Fes.

You can book a day tour from Fes to Volubilis:

Be picked up from your accommodation in Fes and travel aboard a spacious air-conditioned vehicle. Make stops along the way to capture photos at Ain Lah, Zagotta, a dam, and at Rif Mountain.

Arrive in Volubilis and have free time to purchase a ticket to explore the remains of the 2,000-year-old Berber-Roman complex. See the ruins of the Arch of Caracalla, a Basilica, and a Capitoline Temple. Continue to Moulay Idriss, an Islamic town stretched across two scenic hills.

Spend some free time taking panoramic views from the hill top, uncovering squares, and seeing the the green-tiled pyramids of the Zaouia. Purchase a tasty local lunch before heading to Meknes. Soak up the Medina in Meknes at your leisure with free time to see the 17-century city gates, the Royal Palace, and the city’s Spanish and Moorish architecture.

Have the option to see the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, founder of the Alaouite dynasty and sultan when Meknes was the capital city. Stop at the El Hedim Square, the Heri es-Souani granaries, and the Museum of Moroccan Art. Return to your accommodation in Fes with unforgettable memories of Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes.

Book here


Accommodation Fes: next two nights at the 4-star Royal Mirage

The location of the Royal Mirage was good for Fes. The pool was a welcome relief after a day of travelling. We had a meal and a few drinks in the Bar, the meal was average.  Breakfast was the standard fare that we were coming to expect throughout Morocco.

For more accommodation in Fes click here

Day 8 (Day 6 of the Moroccan Dream Tour – Fes)

A full day was planned to visit the oldest of the four Royal cities – Fes. First off our local guide proudly showed off the Royal Palace and its stunning golden gates.  The Palace was originally constructed during the 13th century in the Fes el Jadid sector of Fes.

Golden Gates Fes
Golden Gates Fes

The golden gates were constructed recently between 1969 and 1971 in the Place des Alaouites, the grand square.  There are 7 doors in total. The doors are made from brass with brass handles.  The doors are surrounded by stunning blue geometric ceramic tiles and carved cedarwood. To keep the brass doors shiny lemon juice is used.

Want that Instagram shot in Fes – this is the location! It is a busy location especially mid-morning.

We continue our tour through the Jewish Streets of Fes (the Mellah of Fes) where the houses are built with shops below and accommodation above. We wandered past the many wedding shops with their colourful displays of wedding products.

Fes Medina
Fes Medina

Before exploring the maze of the Fes Medina we stopped for a panoramic view of Fes and a visit to a local pottery – Mosaique et Poterie de Fes. For colourful Moroccan ceramics, this is the place to purchase from. A guided tour helps you to understand their process using the grey clay that is found in Fes and the dyes and pigments which they use.  If you purchase goods that are too bulky to carry home they use DHL for shipping.

Fes Medina is said to be one of the largest in the world. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.  The medina is built in a basin so it is cool in summer. Every medina must have 5 things – a mosque, a kindergarten, a communal bakery, a hamman and a fountain.

Our guide was brought up in the medina and knows every alleyway. When I asked him did he ever got lost he said no. As a young boy, his mother would send him on errands to their very large family who lived throughout the medina.  At first, it would take him hours to locate them and to return home but as time went on he became familiar with the layout and knew the alleyways like the back of his hand. You do need a guide to get you through this maze.

During our wanderings we visited a kindergarten, wandered past the local produce section, pastries and bakeries, rugs, jewellery, ceramics, spices, flowers, food, clothing, sweets, live animals, weavers and silversmiths and more exciting products.  A visit to the Fes Medina is not complete until you visit the Chouwara Tannery. They offer bunches of mint to hold up to your nose to help with the smell, but to be honest it was not that bad, better than I thought! Fes is known for its leather goods and the Chouwara Tannery has an extensive range from shoes to jackets, belts, hats and more.

Restaurant Ryad Nejjarine
Restaurant Ryad Nejjarine

Lunch was included inside the medina at Restaurant Ryad Nejjarine.  To be honest I don’t think I would be able to find the location again, but it would be worth it. The food was excellent, it is famous for its chicken pastilla, and definitely worth a try. I had the vegetarian version and it was so good!  The Ryad is beautifully decorated with Moroccan ceramics, lights and classical furnishings.

Book A Guided Walking Tour of Fes Medina – 

After a pick-up at your hotel or riad in Fez, head out on a guided tour of the Medina, one of the world’s largest walled-in cities. Explore the narrow streets lined with shops selling fresh fruits, spices, intricately woven Berber carpets and numerous other art and craft items from Morocco.

Visit the Quaraouiyine Mosque, founded in 859 by Fatima el Fihri and the Andalusian Mosque dating back to 860 (note that non-Muslims are not permitted to enter). Take in other sites including the Nejjarine Fountain, the Bouaanania Medersa, dating from the 13th century and the Batha Palace, which is now a museum of arts and traditions.

Book here 

Day 9 (Day 7 Moroccan Dream Tour From Fes To Merzouga)

An early start as we had at least 7 hours driving to reach our highly anticipated destination for the next two nights – the Sahara Desert location of Merzouga.

On the way we passed through the alpine village of Efran City in the Middle Atlas Mountains famous for its ski slopes and a popular place for Moroccans to stay during the height of summer. The landscape changes from lush green mountains to the arid desert – from the High Atlas mountain at 1907m high to the Small Atlas mountain and through the Ziz Canyon home of the largest palm groves in the whole of Morocco.

We lunch at what seems to be a small oasis in the middle of nowhere – Maison Valle du Ziz.

Late afternoon we arrived at the Auberge Yasmina Desert Camp where we were staying for the next two nights.

Yasmina Luxury Tents
Yasmina Luxury Tents

Accommodation for the group has been booked in their basic tent accommodation in a courtyard style with a shared bathroom and toilet adjacent. There are other accommodations available, poolside hotel rooms or luxury tents with a private shower and toilet and air-conditioning.  We did upgrade to the luxury tents as we wanted that unique Sahara desert experience where we woke up with views of the sand dunes and not a courtyard with basic tents.  The plus side also was the private bathroom and shower and air-conditioning.

Whilst the group went off for their sunset camel ride we relaxed and chatted with other group tours of their experiences. We could not buy alcohol at the camp but our guide warned us so we purchased our supplies in Fes before we left. The changing colours of the Sahara desert at sunset were amazing and a photographer’s delight.  During the middle of summer when temperatures can reach up to 50 deg centigrade travellers can sleep on the rooftop of the main buildings. After dinner the fire pit was lit and local performers sang and danced for us all.

Book your desert camp experience here

Day 10 (Day 8 Moroccan Dream Tour – Merzouga)

Sand dunes of Merzouga
Sand dunes of Merzouga

A half day on a 4 x 4 jeep safari over the sand dunes, visiting a nomadic village, learning about watercourses in the desert and a photographic opportunity of panoramic views over the desert before returning back to camp for lunch and relaxation by the pool.

Trusty Toyota Landcruisers were our mode of transport for the half day. Due to their large engines and transmission, they are the most popular vehicles for driving in the deserts. Thank goodness our young driver was well-experienced as at times it was a little scary.

The first stop was to one of the largest sand dunes and a climb to the top.  Not an easy feat by all means. It was hard traipsing in bare feet to the top of the dune, the sand getting hotter as the minutes passed.  The view was spectacular but what was the easiest way to return to the vehicles? Some gingerly made their return the way they came, others took the plunge and ran for their life down, some managing to stay upright others not so.

Nomad home
Nomad home

On arrival at the nomadic village, we were allowed to explore their traditional Berber huts and then we gathered in one of the larger ones to learn about their nomadic life.  The number of nomadic families has decreased over the years but those that remain keep their generations of traditions alive.  The lure of city life is too much for some of the younger ones and they head forth looking for greener pastures.  We visited in May and the families in this village were weeks ago from packing up and heading to cooler climes to wait out the intense heat of the summer.

Back at the desert camp you had the opportunity to sandboard or to take a guided quad bike excursion.

You can book a 3-day tour from Marrakesh to Merzouga: more details here

Discover the edge of the Sahara Desert on a three-day budget tour from Marrakech, and explore the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Valley and Kasbah of Ouarzazate. Ride across the dunes of Erg Chebbi by camel and sleep at a desert camp under the stars.

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Dades Begin your journey by crossing the High Atlas Mountains past one Berber village after another to the UNESCO world heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou. This village is famous for its kasbah and fortified village and has been used as a set for some famous Hollywood epics and magazine photo shoots. After some leisure time, enjoy lunch in a local restaurant and continue your drive through Ouarzazate, known as the Gate of the Sahara. Continue to Boumalne Dades, admiring the scenic drive along the Dades Valley, where you can enjoy dinner and rest for the night at Kasbah Amazigh or Hotel Chems.

Day 2: Dades – Todgha Gorges – Merzouga Following breakfast, depart your hotel and drive to Tinghir and its dramatic Todgha Gorges, pausing for some free time to explore the canyons. Enjoy lunch at a local cafe and continue to Merzouga to meet your camel caravan. Experience the Erg Chebbi dunes on camelback and watch the sunset set. Reach your desert camp before nightfall and enjoy an authentic Moroccan dinner under the stars. Local nomads will provide entertainment and show you how to play the traditional Tam Tam drums. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stop.

Day 3: Merzouga Ouarzazate – Marrakech Following an early wake-up to watch the sunrise before breakfast (optional), a driver will be waiting to pick you up for the transfer back to Marrakech. Stop halfway for lunch at a local restaurant. Get dropped off at your original departure point or Djemaa El Fna around 8 PM. You can also book upgrades for the night in the Bedouin camp such as the deluxe desert camp with a luxury private tent complete with an ensuite shower, bathroom facilities, and 5-star amenities. These upgrades need to be booked per person.

Book here

Day 11 (Day 9 of the Moroccan Dream Tour from Merzouga to Todra Gorge and the Dades Valley)

Todra Gorge
Todra Gorge

A visit to the Todra Gorge is a must if you are in the area.  The gorge is one of the popular tourist attractions in Morocco.  As it was a Sunday it was busy with locals and visitors enjoying picnics in the coolness of the gorge and playing games in the shallow river that runs through the gorge.

Lunch was at the very scenic location of the Maison d’hote Anissa in Tinehir on the outside terrace.

Dades Valley
Dades Valley

A hike through Dades Valley was an adventure for all. An hour’s hike through the orchards and wheat fields in the valley crossing streams and small suspension bridges was worth the views. Farmers and their donkeys were working the agriculture fields as we passed by.

Back on the bus we drove past the ‘monkey fingers‘ rock formations at Tamlalt.

Accommodation: Auberge Tissadrine

A beautiful location in the Gorge by a running stream. A lovely welcome from the staff on arrival with snacks and a drink out on the balcony. Most of the rooms were large with balconies overlooking the stream.  Breakfast was of a good standard with hot options available. There is no door to the bathroom and only a curtain separating the shower from the toilet.

For more accommodation options in the area click here

Day 12 (Day 10 Moroccan Dream Tour Dades Valley and Ouarzazate)

A morning walk through Dades Valley enjoying more scenery and the agricultural fields before heading to Ouarzazate 2 hours drive away.

Lunch: The Full Sun No.706 Avenue Moulay Rachid Ouarzazate. We can recommend The Full Sun for its location, menu and service.

Ouarzazate is known as the home of “Ouallywood” studios.  Movies such as Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, Games of Thrones and a Star Wars film plus many more have been filmed here.

Ait Ben Haddou
Ait Ben Haddou

We made a brief stop at the entrance of the Atlas Film Studios before heading to Ait Ben Hadou.  The site houses the famous impressive Kasbah with its six fortresses and narrow alleyways where local traders ply their trade.  It is a bit of a climb to the top but well worth it for the view. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and many films have used it for their locations.

Accommodation: Kenzi Azghor Hotel

The location and the swimming pool, view and terrace is what makes this hotel. The rooms are average and the breakfast basic.

Book here

For alternative accommodation in Ouarzazate click here

You can book a day trip from Marrakesh to Ouarzazate

Discover local village, natural landscapes, and Kasbah Ait Benhaddou fortress on this day trip from Marrakech. Travel in an airconditioned van or car and stay connected with wi-fi access as you drive. Uncover movie-magic with a stop at the Atlas Film Studios in Ouarzazate.

Start your day trip with pickup from your Marrakech accommodation from 7-8 AM. Hop inside a spacious and comfortable vehicle and soak up the scenery as you travel into the Atlas Mountains. Immerse yourself in local culture with a stop at the small village ofAit Ben Barka near the hilly countryside of Toufliht. Explore the area with your driver and learn about the schedule sights for your trip. Have some free time for a break before crossing the the Tizi n’Tichka pass. Stop to capture pictures of mountain peaks on the pass from 7,415 feet above sea level (2,260 meters).

Continue on to the Atlas Film Studios at Ouarzazate, the largest film studio in the world which famously featured in the TV series Game of Thrones. Spend some free time to visit the studios or to explore on your own. Take some pictures of the unique rugged local landscapes in the area. After the studio, you purchase lunch at one of the best restaurants in the area, with excellent prices and stunning panoramic views.

Finally, head to the famous Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, which is recognized as a UNESCO site and one of the most extraordinary kasbahs (fortresses) in Morocco. End your day of scenic views and memories by relaxing in your comfortable air-conditioned vehicle on your drive back to your hotel in Marrakech.

Book here

Day 13 (Day 11 Moroccan Dream Tour Marrakech)

Last full day of travels as we headed from Ouarzazate to Marrakesh a 3.5 hour drive.

There were options for the group to visit the Medina of Marrakesh for more shopping, lunch or a visit to the Hamman.

After lunch, the bus returned to the Blue Sea Le Printemps for the last night’s accommodation.

There was an option to enjoy a final group dinner back in the Medina.

We opted to return to our Riad for our last night’s stay in the Medina and enjoy dinner at the rooftop restaurant and bar – Kabana. Well worth a visit, you do need to book in advance for an outdoor table.

Riad Firdaus
Riad Firdaus

Accommodation: Riad Firdaus Studio King

There is not much available information about the history of Riad Firdaus. The Hamman that we visited was here in the Riad.  We loved the Moroccan decor in this Riad giving the feeling of richness.  The bathroom looked and felt exotic with its bright orange paintwork and toiletries.

Book here

You can read our review here

Day 14 (Day 12 Moroccan Dream Tour Marrakech)

Departure day for the group. Travel Talk arranges transfers to the Airport depending on your flight time.

Our Ryanair flight was departing for Madrid at 7 am and our check-in time at Marrakech airport was at 4 am.

The Riad organised a private transfer at 3.30 am. You do need to allow 3 hours, we sped through all the security points, check in and customs in good time.

Click here to book your Riad from Angsana Heritage Collections

Book here for transport to Marrakesh Airport


Our Final Thoughts on the Moroccan Dream Tour

We enjoyed our first group tour with Travel Talk.  Abdul our guide was a very special person and we were fortunate to have him as our guide on this tour. Most of the hotels were average and did let the overall experience down but we were also aware of the effects of covid on tourism to Morocco. The tour was the right length and we enjoyed the activities and sights we visited.

The restaurants chosen throughout the tour were good. They were chosen for their cleanliness and their menus that catered for all dietary requirements. If the evening meal was not included Abdul gave recommendations of the best places to eat, as he said ‘the last thing he needs is the group to come down with a stomach bug or virus’.

Our driver was a very safe and responsible driver and we felt in good hands throughout the tour.

For the price we paid, which was a two for one deal, we had value for money and would consider taking another Travel Talk tour in the future.

How To Travel Around Morocco

Transport from Marrakesh Airport to Marrakesh

Book your private transfer here

Travel from Marrakesh to Essaouira

Marrakech to Essaouria
Marrakech to Essaouria

Travel time 2 hours and 35 minutes (176.9 km) travelling via N8 and R207.

Travel time from Essaouira to Casablanca

Essaouira Casablanca
Essaouira Casablanca

4 hours 16 minutes  (377.5 km) via N1 and A1

Travel time from Casablanca to Rabat

Casablanca to Rabat
Casablanca to Rabat

1 hour 2 minutes (87.1 km) via A1

Travel time from Rabat to Chefchaouen

Rabat to Chefchaouen
Rabat to Chefchaouen

3 hour 56 minutes (250.4 km) via N1

Travel time from Chefchaouen to Tetouan

Chefchaouen to Tetouan
Chefchaouen to Tetouan

1 hour 25 minutes (64.9 km) via N13

Travel time from Tetouan to Fes

Tetouan to Fes
Tetouan to Fes

4 hour 38 minutes (256.5 km) via N13

Travel time from Fes to Merzouga

Fes to Merzouga
Fes to Merzouga

6 hours 54 minutes (462.2 km) via N13

Travel time from Merzouga to Dades Valley

Merzouga to Dades Valley
Merzouga to Dades Valley

4 hour (263.9 km) via R702 and N10

Travel time from Dades Valley to Ouarzazate

Dades Valley to Ouarzazate
Dades Valley to Ouarzazate

2 hour 4 minutes (140.5 km) via N10

Travel time from Ouarzazate to Marrakesh

Ouarzazate to Marrakesh
Ouarzazate to Marrakesh

 

3 hour 16 minutes (193.1 km) via N9

Bus Travel Around Morocco

For the latest bus schedules click here

Train Travel Around Morocco

For train travel around Morocco – click here for bookings with Omio

Flights To and Around Morocco

We use Skyscanner for our flight bookings – click here for details

Travel Insurance

World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while travelling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

Do you need a visa for Morocco?

To Travel Too Travel Shop

Travel smarter and safer with products from our To Travel Too Travel Shop.  If you are looking for the latest luggage, guidebooks or travel accessories we have you covered with over 800 travel products to choose from.

 

E-Sims

We use e-simatic for our phones throughout Morocco. We had great coverage and were able to hotspot to our laptop. For details click here

Pinterest

Are you on Pinterest? We are at To Travel Too and we have many travel-related boards check us out at Pinterest.  If you enjoyed our article why not pin it to your board and read it later?

14 day itinerary Morocco

 

 

14 day itinerary Morocco

 

14 day itinerary Morocco

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

totraveltoo

Thanks for stopping by and welcome to To Travel Too – Australia’s top Baby Boomer lifestyle and travel blog, with an international worldwide audience in mind, run by the married couple, freelance writers and full-time travellers Jane and Duncan Dempster-Smith. Come with us as we explore the world. Our two mantras that we live by are 'chase time not money' and 'age is no barrier when it comes to travel'.

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