Moroccan Discovery Tour: Cities, Desert & Mountains - 7 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Fes, Explore the City

Welcome to Morocco! Once you disembark your plane at Fes Sais International Airport, meet your driver for a 30-minute transfer into Fes. Located in the north of Morocco and often referred to as the country's cultural capital, this walled city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a medina that has remained almost intact since its creation at the end of the eighth century.

After settling into your riad (traditional courtyard house), descend into the bustling Old Medina of Fes, exploring the labyrinthine streets and markets. End your day watching the sunset from the Marinid Tombs, where you'll find fantastic views of this dynamic city.

Day 2: Old Medina of Fes Tour, Traditional Dinner at Local Home

Meet your guide this morning for an immersive, in-depth tour of the UNESCO-listed Old Medina. As the city never experienced much colonial influence, entering the medina feels like stepping back in time. Wander the twisting cobbled streets and stop to peruse the souks (markets) for various spices, leather goods, ceramics, shoes, scarves, medicines, and more.

Visit the famous Chouara Tannery to see colorful leather dyes and traditional techniques from centuries ago. Next, head to the ninth-century Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University, the world's oldest continuously operating university, and stop at Al-Attarine Madrasa, a 14th-century school featuring beautiful architecture and zellij tiles. Then, wander to some of the other sites of Fes, such as the mellah (Jewish district and cemetery) and the Royal Palace of Fes (Dar el Makhzen). 

Meet a local family for dinner in the medina to experience Moroccan food at its finest in their home. Witness a tea ceremony and taste the famous mint tea, try a local version of Morocco's national dish, tajine (braised meat stew), and enjoy that famous Moroccan hospitality and generosity. 

Day 3: Transfer to Merzouga via Erfoud & Camel Ride, Erg Chebbi Sandboarding

Wake up early and meet your driver for the long, eight-hour transfer from Fes to a Bedouin-style tent accommodation in Merzouga. Enjoy the scenery as you twist through the cedar forests of the High Atlas mountains, and keep your eyes peeled for local Barbary monkeys.

Your first stop will be Midelt, "the Apple City," alongside the River Moulouya. Continue through the Ziz Valley, famous for its hidden oases and palm tree clusters, before reaching the market town of Erfoud, where you'll catch your first glimpse of the Saharan dunes. Stop to watch an ancient method of water mining, chat with nomadic shepherds, and join a Berber family for a cup of tea.

You'll soon see the ever-changing sand waves of Erg Chebbi in the distance, an extensive set of dunes covering 14 square miles (35 sq km). Switch from car to camel for a ride through the dunes to your luxury camp in Merzouga. After settling into your tent, grab a sandboard and test your skills on the dunes. Glide down the golden slopes and enjoy the soft, warm sand beneath your feet. In the evening, climb up dunes to watch the colorful display as the sun sets, then head back to camp for dinner around the campfire.

Day 4: Valleys, Kasbahs & Roses: A Scenic Transfer to Aït Benhaddou

Enjoy a spectacular desert sunrise and breakfast at your camp in Merzouga before hitting the road to Aït Benhaddou, which takes about 5.5 hours. The dunes of the Sahara will slowly give way to the rugged beauty of the scenic Dadès Valley, known for its terraced fields, cliffs, and palm groves. 

Your driver will first stop at the Todra Gorge, which is 984 feet (300 m) high and features impressive red-stained limestones. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the gorge or relax in the cool, shallow water. Next you'll pass through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, also known as the "Valley of the Roses." The traditional mud kasbahs (fortified citadels encircled by walls and towers) and red rocks stand out against this lush stretch following the Dadès River. Finally, you'll arrive at the UNESCO-listed Aït Benhaddou.

After you settle in, head out to explore the spectacular Ksar of Aït Benhaddou, which dates back to the 11th century and is one of the most incredible human-made sites in the region. While you walk through the center, explore the ancient alleys and passageways, ducking into shops and grabbing a bite to eat. Then, hike up to the old granary for incredible views. Most other tourists will depart in the afternoon, giving you the place to yourself, which is ideal for exploring at your leisure.

Day 5: Transfer to Marrakesh via Tizi n'Tichka Pass & the High Atlas Mountains

Say farewell to Aït Benhaddou and hop aboard your transfer to Marrakesh, which takes about 3.5 hours. Get ready for a change of scenery as you head up and over the High Atlas mountains. Marvel at Mount Toubkal, which stands at 13,671 feet (4,167 m), and enjoy a panorama of the mountain range at the top of the Tizi n'Tichka Pass as the road snakes down. Continue toward Taddert and stop at an oil cooperative to learn how olives are processed for various uses. Taste some of the olive oil made on-site, and then descend the mountains heading northwest into the plains.

After a scenic and tranquil drive, you'll reach the vibrant Marrakesh. Settle into your riad and spend the rest of the afternoon as you like. Enjoy a relaxing stroll in the gardens near the picturesque Koutoubia Mosque, then head to the lively Jemaa el-Fna Square. Stick around after sunset to watch it come alive with musicians, snake charmers, and food stalls.

Day 6: Unveiling Marrakesh, Gastronomy Tour, Traditional Hammam Experience

Embark on a half-day tour of Marrakesh, Morocco's "Red City" (named after the rusty pigment in the walls), with a local expert. Begin in the city's center at Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakesh's vibrant central square. Venture into the Old Medina of Marrakesh, with its maze of narrow alleyways lined with traditional riads, souks, and artisan workshops. Your guide will share the history and stories of the medina, the souk, and the mellah sections, all within the city's rose-pink walls. See the Bahia Palace, a sprawling complex dating to the late 19th century, and explore the ruins of El Badi Palace, built in 1578. 

Later in the day, explore the flavors of Marrakesh on a food tour through the city's medina. Follow your guide on a culinary journey to some of Marrakesh's beloved local hotspots. Taste various traditional delicacies, ranging from sweets like chebakia (sesame cookies) to msemen (Moroccan pancakes) and pastilla (sweet-and-savory pie). Along the way, learn about the country's essential ingredients, cooking techniques, and culinary culture. 

After your tour, head to the ultimate pampering escape in a hammam (bathhouse). Begin with an ancient Moroccan bathing ritual that combines heat, steam, and meticulous body cleansing. Then, enjoy a relaxing and refreshing massage, a nourishing body mask (made of locally sourced argan oil), and a cup of soothing herbal tea. 

Day 7: Depart Marrakesh

It's time to wave goodbye to the beautiful land of Morocco. If you have time before your flight today, venture into the souks to shop for last-minute spices, slippers, and souvenirs. At the designated time, a private driver will be waiting at your hotel to escort you to the airport, a 20-minute drive from the center. Sit back and relax as you reflect on the past week in Morocco and savor a final view of the city. Safe travels home or to your next destination!