Marrakech Itinerary 10 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech

Your Marrakech itinerary 10 days begins with a warm welcome at Marrakech Menara Airport. Your private driver will transfer you to your traditional riad in the heart of the medina, just 15 minutes away. These riads, with their quiet courtyards and intricate tilework, offer an authentic Moroccan atmosphere from the moment you arrive.

If your flight arrives earlier in the day, you might take a gentle walk through the nearby souks, where the scent of spices and the sound of craftsmen at work set the tone for your Moroccan adventure. Alternatively, relax at your riad with a cup of mint tea before the days ahead.

Day 2: Guided Tour of Marrakech

After breakfast, your local guide will meet you for a full day dedicated to discovering Marrakech’s rich heritage. Begin at the 19th-century Bahia Palace, known for its carved ceilings, colorful zellige tiles, and peaceful gardens. Continue to the Saadian Tombs, resting place of sultans and members of the Saadian dynasty, hidden for centuries before being rediscovered in 1917.

A short walk takes you to the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest in Marrakech, whose minaret dominates the skyline. From there, step into the vibrant Jemaa el-Fna square, alive with storytellers, musicians, juice vendors, and market stalls. After lunch, you may choose to visit the Majorelle Gardens, designed by the French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent, or simply enjoy exploring the souks at your own pace. Return to your riad for the night.

Day 3: Marrakech → High Atlas Mountains → Ait Ben Haddou → Dades Valley (320 km / 6.5 hrs)

Enjoy breakfast before setting out on a scenic drive into the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m). Along the way, pause at panoramic viewpoints overlooking Berber villages clinging to the hillsides, and perhaps stop for coffee in a mountain café.

By midday, arrive at Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most famous ksars. Its earthen architecture has appeared in films such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After exploring the narrow alleys and ancient towers, continue to Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa” for its film studios. Passing through the Valley of Roses and the small town of Kalaat Mgouna, you’ll reach the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic gorges and rock formations. Dinner and overnight in a comfortable hotel with valley views.

Day 4: Dades Valley → Todra Gorge → Merzouga Desert (Camel Trek & Camp) (270 km / 4.5 hrs)

This morning, follow the road deeper into the Dades Valley, where you’ll stop at viewpoints to see the unique “Monkey Fingers” rock formations. Continue to the Tinghir Oasis, where palm groves and small farms lead into the Todra Gorge. A short walk here lets you appreciate the sheer cliffs rising 300 meters above you.

By afternoon, arrive in Merzouga at the edge of the Sahara Desert. Switch to camels for a trek across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes, timing your ride to witness the sunset from the sand. At your desert camp, enjoy a traditional Berber dinner by the campfire, accompanied by drumming and songs beneath a sky full of stars. Overnight in a private, well-equipped tent.

Day 5: Merzouga → Ziz Valley → Midelt → Fes (470 km / 7 hrs)

Wake early to watch the sunrise painting the dunes in shades of gold. Return to Merzouga village by camel or 4×4, then have breakfast and a quick refresh. Begin the drive north through the Ziz Valley, famous for its date palms and kasbahs.

After lunch in Midelt, continue into the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in the Cedar Forest near Azrou to look for Barbary macaques. Pass through Ifrane, known as “the Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine architecture and clean streets, before arriving in Fes. Check into your riad in the medina for the night.

Day 6: Full-Day Guided Tour of Fes

Spend today discovering Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and intellectual heart. Your local guide will lead you through the UNESCO-listed medina, visiting the Al Quaraouiyine University (founded in 859), the Nejjarine Fountain, and the Chouara Tanneries, where leather is still dyed in traditional pits.

You’ll wander through artisan quarters, spice markets, and narrow lanes that have changed little over the centuries. Learn about the city’s religious schools (madrasas) and their beautiful architecture before returning to your riad for the evening.

Day 7: Fes → Chefchaouen (210 km / 4.5 hrs)

Depart Fes in the morning for the Rif Mountains, reaching Chefchaouen around midday. Known as the “Blue Pearl” of Morocco, the town’s blue-washed walls and quiet charm make it a favorite for travelers seeking a slower pace.

Spend the afternoon wandering through its photogenic streets, visiting the main square of Outa el Hammam, and perhaps hiking to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views over the town at sunset. Overnight in a boutique riad.

Day 8: Chefchaouen → Casablanca (340 km / 5.5 hrs)

After breakfast, depart for Casablanca, Morocco’s commercial capital. In the afternoon, visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest, with its 210-meter minaret standing beside the Atlantic Ocean. Check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening in the city.

Day 9: Casablanca → Marrakech (240 km / 3.5 hrs)

Travel back to Marrakech along the highway. Upon arrival, the rest of the afternoon is free—revisit the souks for last-minute shopping, book a traditional hammam spa, or unwind in your riad’s courtyard. An optional farewell dinner can be arranged to celebrate your Morocco tour.

Day 10: Departure from Marrakech

Depending on your flight time, enjoy breakfast and perhaps a final stroll in the medina before your airport transfer. Your Marrakech itinerary 10 days concludes with a richer understanding of Morocco’s landscapes, cities, and traditions.