Morocco itinerary: 5, 7, 10, and 14 days useful travel plan with budget guide

Each of my visits in Morocco is around 30 days so in this article, I want to share with you some Morocco itinerary ideas for your preferred travel duration and travel type. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help in planning your trip!

📬 Hey Trisha! Your blog was referred to me by a friend who met you in South America. She told me you visit Morocco a lot and I am stoked to browse through your blog!! I am traveling there with three girlfriends this summer. Can you please suggest the most ideal itinerary if we only have 7 days? I saw you also drove the whole country! Our plan is to visit Tangier, Chefchaouen, and Fez. Can we also add the Sahara desert? Your help is very much appreciated. Keep inspiring girls like me to travel!

-Katrin Fassbinder, UK

Hi Katrin,

Thank you for following the blog! Your friend has informed me you might get in touch so here I am, coming up with your great Northern Morocco itinerary.

I have visited Morocco a bunch of times and stayed for longer periods. This Morocco itinerary involves renting a car and driving on your own in Morocco.

It highlights three different and popular Moroccan cities: Tangier, Chefchaouen, Marrakech, Sahara, Fez, and more! The days are very detailed and it includes a lot of information for your successful all-girls road trip in Morocco.

If you want more information or other options, you can check my Morocco Travel Guide. It covers the whole country!

Thanks for your support and I hope you and your girlfriends will have a great time in Morocco!

xx,
Trisha

📅 How many days do you need in Morocco?

I spent one month in Morocco on my second trip and three months on my first. Morocco can be done in 5, 7, 10, or 14 days depending on your travel time.

Personally, I would suggest 7-10 days as optimal and realistic because you also don’t want to hurry and be stressed about moving around for a short period of time.

In this Morocco itinerary, there are many different types of trips depending on the number of days of your preference so browse and see what works for you.

🇲🇦 Planning your trip to Morocco? I can help you with that! From itinerary planning to safety in traveling to Morocco, I can give you genuine tips on a 1-1 call. Let’s chat! [Book a call with Trisha]

🐪 5 days in Morocco itinerary

The highlights of this suggested 5 days in Morocco itinerary cover Marrakech, The Sahara Desert, the Atlas Mountains, and Ouarzazate.

It may be short but it is doable. Here’s a suggested itinerary on how to spend 5 days in Morocco:

Day 1: Marrakech

The airport that serves Marrakech is Menara Airport (RAK) which serves many International flights, especially from Europe.

As soon as you arrive, you can begin strolling around the Medina. In Morocco, and in many other parts of the Arab world, a “Medina” refers to the old, historic part of a city. The term itself means “city” or “town” in Arabic.

You also need to visit the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa square, a bustling hotspot where you can witness a confluence of cultures, cuisines, and crafts.

You can easily spend the whole afternoon and evening here. This area is big and you won’t get bored going around. There are so many things to see and do!

Where to stay in Marrakech:

• 5 star/all-inclusve: Kenzi Club Agdal Medina (from $181 USD)
• Budget riad: Riad Tamazouzt (from $38 USD)
• 3-star hotel: Hôtel Belleville Marrakech (from $41 USD)

Day 2: Tinghir City from Marrakech

Day 2 highlights of this 5-day Morocco itinerary are the High Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate and Tinghir City.

Start your day early and head towards the High Atlas Mountains (12-hour drive). Stretching across North Africa, the Atlas Mountains are a range of peaks offering breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped summits to verdant valleys.

After descending from the mountains, make your way to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou. Ait Ben Haddou is a striking earthen clay ksar (fortified village).

Its ancient kasbahs, layered against a hillside, showcase traditional Moroccan architecture and have set the scene for numerous films.

Often dubbed the “Doorway to the Desert,” Ouarzazate is a city known for its cinematic history, hosting film shoots for Hollywood blockbusters.

Visit the Atlas Film Studios or the Taourirt Kasbah. The town serves as a gateway to the Sahara Desert and offers an intriguing blend of modernity and tradition.

By sunset, proceed to Tinghir city. The journey will introduce you to the beginning of the Todra Gorge region. Spend the night in a riad in Tinghir City.

Day 3: Sahara Desert Overnight Camp

On day 3 of 5 days in Morocco, you will embark on a camel ride to the Sahara Desert camp where you will spend the night in the desert. But before that, you will pass through:

Tinghir Oasis: An emerald jewel amidst arid landscapes, the Tinghir Oasis flourishes with lush palm groves and fertile farmlands. Situated near Tinghir city, this verdant stretch is a testament to nature’s resilience, providing sustenance and a serene escape within the desert’s embrace.

Gargantas del Todra (Todra Gorge): Towering, narrow limestone canyons define the Todra Gorge. Set near Tinghir, these dramatic cliffs offer a playground for trekkers and climbers, their orange hues contrasting beautifully with the clear blue sky, crafting a surreal, natural artwork.

After visiting these two places, you will make your way to the Erg Chebbi, one of Morocco’s two Saharan ergs. These vast sand dunes, some rising over 150 meters, transform with the day’s light and offer a mesmerizing desert experience, from camel treks to starlit nights.

Most tour companies serve dinner at the desert camp.

Day 4: Sahara Desert to Marrakech

Wake up and explore the Sahara desert at sunrise. You need to wake up really early because after 7:00 AM, it is extremely hot in the desert.

After taking photos, you need to head back to the hotel in Tinghris where you will have your breakfast. At the hotel, you can also shower and freshen up. for the drive to Marrakech.

You will arrive Marrakech in the evening and along the way, you can stop at iconic places to take photos.

Day 5: Marrakech

In the morning, you can explore the architectural wonders of Marrakech. Start with the Bahia Palace, a sprawling 19th-century palace boasting intricate stucco work, beautiful tile mosaics, and expansive courtyards.

Continue to the Koutoubia Mosque, the city’s largest mosque, recognizable by its towering minaret. A hallmark of Almohad architecture, this 12th-century structure is an iconic symbol of Marrakech, adorned with decorative stone and ceramic patterns.

End in the Majorelle Garden, a botanical haven created by French painter Jacques Majorelle. The garden is also famously associated with fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, who found inspiration amidst its blue pathways and exotic plants.

After strolling Majorelle Garden, get brunch at Cafe Majorelle. It’s one of the best cafes in Marrakech and serves a fusion of Moroccan and international cuisines.

Can you do Morocco in 5 days?

Yes, you can definitely do Morocco in 5 days but this will be limited to must-visit destinations like Marrakech and the Sahara Desert.

An estimated trip budget for 5 days in Morocco is around $1,500 USD, if you are going on an all-inclusive tour. If you go on your own, you can even spend less!

However, if you have the time, 7 days is the ideal number of days to travel around Morocco. This way, you won’t get tired and rushed.

Rent a car and you will see more places. The drive is beautiful, easy, and safe!

🗺️ 7 days in Morocco itinerary

This 7 days in Morocco itinerary covers Tangier, Chefchaouen, Fez, and the Sahara Desert. Now many travelers are wondering, “is 7 days enough in Morocco?”

ABSOLUTELY! 7 days is actually the minimum amount of days you should spend in Morocco but I still recommend you to spend 10 days in Morocco if you can.

Given a week, you’d likely focus on a few key highlights rather than trying to see everything. Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of a 7-day trip:

Day 1: Tangier

Tangier is very close to the Strait of Gibraltar and Spain. It has been the gateway between Europe and Africa since the Phoenician times. I’ve visited this city three times already and I can say this is my favorite city in Morocco.

Here, they speak Spanish so better remember your Spanish skills as it will be useful for your visit. I feel they are even more Spanish than the Spanish!

I stayed at Kenzi Solazur, a 4-star hotel good for business people and also for families. A double room costs $80 USD for 2 pax, breakfast included. Their amenities are quite impressive too. They have a pool, a gym, over 4 different restaurants, a spa – you name it!

Before noon, walk around the medina. Tangier’s Medina is a top attraction in the city. Here, you will get to see narrow alleys that are both residential and commercial by the walls of a 15th-century Portuguese fortress.

By 12:00 PM, go grab lunch at Restaurant Populaire Saveur de Poisson. An iconic spot in Tangier, Saveur de Poisson offers a unique dining experience.

This quirky eatery, renowned for its fish-based dishes, serves a set menu of fresh seafood delights, accompanied by an array of local appetizers and desserts, all showcasing authentic Moroccan flavors.

After lunch, walk to the Tangier’s Kasbah, an ancient fortress with narrow winding alleys, historic palaces, and stunning views of the Mediterranean. Its rich history and preserved architecture make it a mesmerizing journey through time.

Don’t miss Cafe Baba, a legendary café in Tangier and a bohemian haven frequented by famous personalities like the Rolling Stones in the past.

With its rich blue tiles, traditional Moroccan décor, and laid-back ambiance, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a mint tea and getting to know how locals hang out in Tangier.

By sunset, make your way to Café Hafa, an iconic terrace café in Tangier. Famous for its mint tea, the café boasts an unpretentious atmosphere, drawing both locals and celebrities.

The panoramic views and the sense of history make it a must-visit. The cafe is overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar.

Day 2: Tangier and Chefchaouen

At 9:00 AM, after breakfast in your hotel, make your way to The Caves of Hercules, a 20-minute drive from Tangier. Legend claims Hercules rested here after his twelve labors.

The cave’s sea-facing entrance, shaped like an outline of Africa, offers a unique interplay of light and shadow on the walls, creating a magical ambiance amidst the crashing waves.

By 2:00 PM, you’ll be back in Tangier and can visit the Grand Mosque. Initially a Portuguese cathedral, it was converted into a mosque after the city’s reconquest, blending diverse cultural imprints in its design and essence.

After visiting the mosque, you need to go to Cafe Tingis in the Petit Socco for afternoon tea. Café Tingis is a historic gathering spot.

With its vintage charm, the café provides an authentic backdrop to watch daily life unfold in the bustling square. This is the best place to go people-watching in Tangier!

By 5:00 PM, get ready to drive from Tangier to Chefchaouen (2-hour drive). I drove at night because I figured there would be less traffic. It took me less than an hour to reach Chaouen just in time for dinner.

I didn’t have any particular restaurant in mind so I just went for whichever is full. Leaving Tangier in the evening is ideal if you want to have full days in Chefchaouen.

I stayed at Dar Sababa, a B&B located in the medina of Chefchaouen. A double room for 2 pax starts at $40 USD, breakfast included.

I booked this hotel because the word “sababa” called my attention. Sababa is one of several Hebrew slang words meaning “great” or “cool” and can express enthusiasm, satisfaction, or assent. Chefchaouen definitely has a bit of Jewish influence!

I went on a harvest-your-own weed tour offered by a random guy on the street! This may sound sketchy and it won’t be available for everyone.

I think this guy asked if I wanted to go on a hashish tour for $20 USD and I said yes. I don’t know if he normally would ask everyone upfront but before he asked me, he offered me a spliff.

When I took it, I think that’s the sign he was waiting for: I am definitely up for a hashish tour! I hope you come across this guy as I’ve learned a lot about the hashish culture of the country through him.

Day 3: Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is always a favorite when I visit Morocco. Those Instagram pics you see that are tagged “Morocco?” They’re definitely Chefchaouen!

There are several theories as to why the walls were painted blue. One popular theory is that the blue keeps mosquitos away, another is that Jews introduced the blue when they took refuge from Hitler in the 1930s.

The blue is said to symbolize the sky and heaven and serve as a reminder to lead a spiritual life.

Start your day by walking in the Medina of Chefchaouen. Nestled in Morocco’s Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen’s Medina is a dreamy labyrinth of blue.

Every alley and archway is painted in varying shades of azure, echoing the sky above. Its relaxed pace, historical architecture, and captivating charm make it a tranquil escape from Morocco’s busier destinations.

At 12:00 PM, go for a set lunch at Restaurant Casa Alladin. Perched with panoramic views, Alladin Restaurant in Chefchaouen offers a delightful blend of traditional Moroccan cuisine and captivating vistas.

The place is always full so it’s better to go before peak hours. I accidentally walked in here before 12 and got the best spot! After which, people started coming in for lunch.

After lunch, you can do your shopping or simply just go window shopping in the souks of Chefchaouen. Shopping in Chefchaouen is an enchanting experience.

Its souks burst with artisanal treasures—from handwoven textiles, unique pottery, to fragrant spices. The city’s distinctive blue hue inspires many local crafts, making it a haven for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and artisanal finds.

By 5:00 PM, prepare for a sunset hike to see the view of the blue city. This is a must! The most popular route takes one to the Bouzafer Mosque. You can also drive up if you don’t want to walk.

For dinner, I recommend Cafe Sofia, renowned for its lively atmosphere and eclectic mix of locals and travelers, it serves as a cultural melting pot.

The boasts an array of delicious Moroccan and international dishes but travelers come here for the ambiance, the captivating street views, and a cozy vantage point.

Day 4: Fez

I stayed at Riad La Maison Bleue, a luxury accommodation and spa in Fez. A standard double room for 2 starts at $388 USD per night, breakfast included.

The drive from Chefchaouen to Fes will take 3.5 hours. Fes is often referred to as Morocco’s cultural capital. The city is known for Fes El Bali walled medina with an old-world ambiance of Marinid architecture.

Upon arrival, stroll the Medina of Fez. As one of the world’s largest urban car-free zones, its alleys echo with history, bustling markets, and the rich heritage of Moroccan craftsmanship.

After walking around, get lunch at Cafe Clock, a restored traditional townhouse-turned-café with a diverse menu, encompassing Moroccan favorites and modern twists.

This is also a great place to meet people if you are traveling alone! It’s a hub for cultural exchange, hosting workshops, storytelling evenings, and music performances.

After lunch, make your way to the Fez Tanneries, a must-visit in Fez. Amidst a mosaic of dye pits, artisans process and color leather using centuries-old techniques.

The view from nearby terraces showcases this intricate choreography of craftsmanship, offering insight into the ancient art of leather-making.

By sunset, head to the Merenid Tombs (you need to drive or take a cab). Perched on Fez’s northern hills, the Merenid Tombs offer a panoramic view of Fez.

Though now in ruins, these 14th-century tombs reflect the grandeur of the Merenid dynasty and stand as silent witnesses to Fez’s illustrious past.

Spend your evening doing a hammam bath in Fez. These communal steam baths offer cleansing rituals with exfoliation and massages, providing a rejuvenating escape from the city’s hustle.

Day 5: Fez to Sahara Desert

You need to leave Fez around 7:00 AM to get to the Sahara Desert by sunset. You don’t have to drive straight as there are many interesting spots along the way.

The drive from Fez to Sahara Desert (Merzouga) is around 7.5 hours. You will pass by Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco.” It is a picturesque town nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains.

Its unique Alpine-style architecture, pristine parks, and crisp air make it a popular retreat, especially during snowfall, contrasting the country’s warmer regions.

Make your way to the Azrou Cedre Forest, an expansive cedar forest that is home to the famous Barbary macaques. The cool, tranquil environment, punctuated by ancient trees, offers a serene escape and captivating wildlife encounters.

Do a quick stop in Midelt, situated between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. Renowned for its apple orchards, the town also acts as a starting point for mountain treks, exploring nearby Berber villages and stunning landscapes.

The last stop will be Errachidia, an oasis town that is the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Its rich history, scenic palm groves, and vibrant Ziz River make it a strategic point for travelers venturing into the desert’s golden dunes.

By sunset, you will arrive at the departure point to get to your Sahara Desert camp to spend the night camping under the stars. The camel ride is about an hour and you should be at the meeting point by 5:00 PM.

Dinner will be served on the campgrounds.

Day 6: Sahara Desert to Marrakech

Depending on your tour group, the wake-up call for Sahara Desert varies. My group did a 4:00 AM early call and I also wanted to do it earlier so there’s better light for photos.

You will ride back to the hotel for breakfast but along the way, there will be many spots to take photos. This is the reason why guides do early wake-up calls so you can take your time in the dune stops.

By 6:30 AM, you should reach a high vantage point atop a dune. At approximately 7:30 AM, the guide will take you to the hotel/restaurant to freshen up and have breakfast.

By 10:00 AM, you should drive back to Marrakech, which is a 7-hour drive.

Day 7: Marrakech

For the last day of this 7-day Morocco itinerary, you will have at least 8 hours to spend in Marrakech. I stayed in Kenzi Club Agdal Medina for $181 USD per night (all-inclusive).

Here’s a quick itinerary for your last day in Morocco:

9:00 AM – Start your day in the blue oasis of Jardin Majorelle: Wander through its lush botanical gardens, fountains, and the striking blue Villa, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent.

10:30 AM – Medina and Souks: Head into the bustling heart of Marrakech—the Medina. Navigate its labyrinthine alleys, absorbing the colors, scents, and sounds. Dive into the souks, looking for local crafts, spices, and textiles.

12:00 PM – Koutoubia Mosque: Marvel at the grandeur of the Koutoubia Mosque from the outside, noting its beautiful minaret, a symbol of the city.

12:30 PM – Lunch at La Cantine des Gazelles: This trendy eatery combines the rich flavors of traditional Moroccan cuisine with contemporary twists. The chic décor, characterized by modern art pieces and plush seating, complements its innovative menu.

2:00 PM – Bahia Palace: Visit the splendid Bahia Palace with its stunning architecture, intricate tilework, and gorgeous gardens.

3:00 PM – Jemaa el-Fnaa: Here, you’ll find street performers, food stalls, and a unique Moroccan atmosphere. Enjoy some fresh orange juice or indulge in local snacks.

If you need more ideas on what to do in Marrakech for half day, go back to the 5-day Morocco itinerary where there were more details and suggestions.

🇲🇦 10 days in Morocco itinerary

This Morocco itinerary for 10 days covers Marrakech, Sahara, Essaouira, Fez, Ouarzazate, and Casablanca which are the most famous landmarks and destinations in Morocco.

For 10 days in Morocco, you can already actually do a lot although you may be moving a lot more on a daily basis to cover the must-visit destinations.

Here’s what you can do for 10 days in Morocco (day by day):

Day 1: Casablanca

I loved Casablanca and I was inspired to spend some time here because of the movie. I also visited that restaurant in the Casablanca movie, Rick’s Cafe.

However, if you don’t have time, honestly, one day in Casablanca can be enough, especially if you’re prioritizing other destinations in Morocco.

While Casablanca is the country’s economic hub and has its charms, it doesn’t have the same historical allure or dense concentration of attractions as cities like Marrakech or Fes.

For one day in Casablanca, you can:

• Visit the stunning Hassan II Mosque (the third-largest mosque in the world, and its minaret is the world’s tallest).
• Stroll along the Corniche, the beachfront district with its cafes and restaurants.
• Dive into the older parts of the city, including the Habous Quarter.

That said, if you’re into more modern Moroccan culture, art, and nightlife, you might appreciate spending an extra day exploring. But for a quick glimpse of Casablanca’s highlights, one day is manageable!

Day 2: Rabat

Rabat is the capital city of Morocco but is often skipped by travelers. One day is enough in Rabat and it’s only an hour’s drive from Casablanca so it won’t hurt to add it to your Morocco itinerary.

For one day in Rabat, you can:

• Start at the Kasbah of the Udayas, an ancient fortress with winding blue and white streets and gardens, offering a great view over the river and the neighboring city of Salé.
• Head to the Maqam of King Mohammed V, a modern architectural masterpiece and an important historical and religious site.
• Check out the Hassan Tower – an incomplete minaret of a mosque that was intended to be the largest in the world.
• Wander around the Medina, which is quieter than in other cities but still offers a good taste of Moroccan urban life.

Day 3: Chefchaouen

The drive from Rabat to Chefchaouen is around 4 hours so you can easily leave Rabat by sunset to make it to Chefchaouen in the evening.

Is one day enough in Chefchaouen? Yes, but I stayed here for almost a week! While you can see its main sights in a day, many travelers fall in love with the blue city and decide to stay for more than a day.

For one day in Chefchaouen, you can:

• Spend your day wandering the famous blue streets. It’s a picturesque maze!
• Visit the Kasbah Museum in the main square.
• Hike up to the Spanish Mosque for the best sunset and panoramic view of the town.
• Shop for some unique local crafts and enjoy local food in the medina.

Day 4-5: Fez

From Chefchaouen, Fez is a 3.5 hour drive. I suggest to aim to arrive in Fez by 7:00 PM for dinner. Now, for Fez, I don’t really think that one day is enough since this is a big city!

Fez’s Medina is the world’s largest urban car-free zone and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. While you can rush through the highlights in one day, two days allow a richer experience.

What to do in Fez in two days:

• Dive deep into the Fez Medina (Fez el-Bali). It’s a labyrinth and you can get lost so go on a tour. This alone is already 4 hours to do and will take up your whole afternoon.
• Visit the Tanneries, but be prepared for a strong smell.
• See the Al Quaraouiyine University, recognized as the world’s oldest continually-operating degree-granting university.
• Wander the Jewish Quarter (Mellah).

Days 6-7: Merzouga and Sahara Desert

The drive from Fez to Merzouga, where the Sahara Desert Camps are is long (about 8 hours) but worth it! Reach Merzouga and take an evening camel trek into the Sahara.

All camel treks from Merzouga to Sahara leave around 5:00 PM. The camel ride is about an hour and you will be able to see the sunset during the ride.

In the morning, you will wake up early to drive back and stop in high sand dunes to take photos. By 7:30 AM, you should be in the breakfast place where the tour guides will also allow you to shower.

Day 8: Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate is about a 5-hour drive from the Sahara Desert and is definitely worth the stop, especially if you are a Game of Thrones fan!

Often called the “Door of the Desert,” is primarily a stopping point for travelers heading to or coming from the Sahara to Marrakech.

For one day in Ouarzazate, you can visit:

• Taourirt Kasbah: This historical kasbah is right in the middle of the city and gives a good glimpse into traditional architecture and living conditions.
• Atlas Film Studios: Often referred to as the “Hollywood of Africa”, this studio has seen the production of many major films like Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and series like Game of Thrones. It’s a treat for movie buffs.
• Aït Benhaddou: Although it’s about 30km from Ouarzazate, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit. It’s an ancient fortified village and has also been the backdrop for many films and TV shows.

Days 9-10: Marrakech

For some, 2 days in Marrakech can feel just right, especially if you’re on a tight schedule and want to get a taste of the city. You can explore the main attractions, such as the Medina, Jemaa el-Fnaa, and some of the gardens, and even squeeze in a hammam experience.

But if you’re the kind of person who loves to truly soak in a place, then you might find 2 days a bit rushed.

Marrakech is filled with hidden gems, vibrant souks, historical sites, and amazing food experiences. Plus, it can be quite chaotic, so if you want to navigate it at a leisurely pace, give yourself an extra day or two.

If you’re planning day trips from Marrakech, like heading to the Atlas Mountains or Essaouira, then you’d definitely need more time.

But for a quick dive into Marrakech’s essence, 2 days can work!

Top things to do in Marrakech:

• Marrakech half-day city tour: from $36 USD (3 hours)
• Hot air balloon flight with traditional breakfast: from $187 USD (4-5 hours)
• Palmeraie Quad Bike Desert Adventure: from $46 USD (3 hours)
• Marrakech historical and cultural tour: from $30 USD (3 hours)
• Marrakech street food tour: from $43 USD (4 hours)

🪘 Thematic itineraries for Morocco travel

As I always want to suggest a Morocco itinerary according to the type of traveler that you are, here are some thematic trips to Morocco to choose from:

1. Classic Morroco (12-14 days)

A “classic” Morocco itinerary encompasses the most iconic, renowned, and representative sites and experiences of a destination.

It’s designed for travelers a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of a country’s highlights. Here are the must-visit places within 12-14 days:

• Marrakech: Visit the famous Jardin Majorelle, Koutoubia Mosque, and bustling souks.
• Atlas Mountains: Trekking or visiting traditional Berber villages.
• Ait Benhaddou: A UNESCO World Heritage site and a backdrop for many films.
• Sahara Desert: Camel trekking and camping under the stars in Merzouga.
• Fez: Explore the world’s oldest university and the maze-like Medina.
• Chefchaouen: Wander the blue streets of this beautiful mountain town.
• Casablanca: Visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world.

2. Morocco’s Beaches and Coast (7-10 days)

Morocco’s coastline, stretching along both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, is a haven for beach lovers.

Over 7-10 days, travelers can indulge in the golden sands of Agadir, explore the artistic lanes of Essaouira, and bask in the sun in Tangier.

• Casablanca: Start your journey.
• El Jadida: Historic coastal city with Portuguese influences.
• Essaouira: A seaside town known for its medina and fresh seafood.
• Taghazout: Popular surfing destination.
• Agadir: Beach resort city with a modern touch.

3. Historical and Cultural (10-14 days)

Morocco is a tapestry of history, woven with tales of ancient empires, Berber tribes, and colonial imprints.

Over 10-14 days, delve deep into the past by walking the ancient lanes of Marrakech and Fez, exploring UNESCO sites like Ait Benhaddou, and witnessing the rich tapestry of art and architecture in cities like Meknes and Rabat.

• Rabat: Visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and Kasbah of the Udayas.
• Meknes: Explore the ancient royal palaces and gates.
• Volubilis: Ruins of a Roman city.
• Fez: Delve deep into the history of the old medina.
• Marrakech: Explore the historical sites like Bahia Palace.
• Taroudant: Often called the ‘Grandmother of Marrakech’, with historic walls and souks.

4. Adventure and Nature (8-10 days)

Over 8-10 days, traverse the dramatic dunes of the Sahara Desert, hike the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains, and journey through the rugged canyons of the Todra and Dades Gorges.

This Morocco itinerary is for those who love the outdoors and are always up for physical activities.

• Atlas Mountains: Trekking, mountaineering, or visiting local villages.
• Sahara Desert: ATV rides, camel treks, and sandboarding.
• Todra Gorge: Rock climbing and hiking.
• Paradise Valley: A hidden oasis with natural swimming pools.

5. Culinary Exploration (7-9 days)

Moroccan cuisine is a symphony of flavors, reflecting its diverse cultural influences. Spend 7-9 days journeying through the country’s gastronomic delights.

Learn traditional recipes in Marrakech, savor fresh seafood in coastal towns, indulge in street food delicacies, and partake in mint tea ceremonies.

• Marrakech: Moroccan cooking class, tasting street food at Jemaa el-Fnaa.
• Fez: Explore the food market and taste traditional dishes like pastilla.
• Essaouira: Fresh seafood and argan oil tasting.
• Meknes: Wine tasting in the nearby vineyards.

6. Spiritual and Wellness Journey (7-10 days)

Over 7-10 days, you can sign up for yoga retreats taking place in the Atlas Mountains, learn about the therapeutic benefits of traditional hammams, and experience the tranquil settings of Morocco’s oases and gardens.

• Marrakech: Begin with a traditional hammam spa experience.
• Atlas Mountains: Yoga retreats and meditation in tranquil settings.
• Sahara Desert: Spiritual solitude under a canopy of stars.
• Chefchaouen: Calm and meditative walks through the blue streets.
• Taroudant: Visit traditional healing herbalists.

🚘 Renting a car in Morocco

I opted to rent a car in Morocco not because it’s cheaper but because the country’s terrain is easy to drive. Prior to landing, I already booked a car online where I had to pay a 25% reservation fee.

You can find various companies on the Internet that offer rental services but below are rough estimates so you’ll have an idea how much it will cost you on a daily basis:

• Mini ($960 USD per month): Aircondition, 4-door, 4 passengers max
• Standard ($760 USD per month): Aircondition, 4-door, 5 passengers max
• Premium ($1500 USD per month): Aircondition, 4-door, 6 passengers max

Daily car rental costs on average range from $30 USD – $45 USD. I drove to Morocco for a month so I am showing you the monthly costs. Of course, the more days you rent, the cheaper.

This is ideal for people traveling in groups as the bus/trains can cost the same (individually).

Car rental in Morocco includes Collision Damage Waiver with Excess (CDW) and Insurance for one (1) driver. Free cancellation, no credit card fees, toll, gas, and extra fees not included.

If you are traveling as a group and more than one person can drive, I strongly advice for you to get the additional driver insurance that costs $6 USD per day.

Other modes of transport when traveling in Morocco

Compared to my visit six years ago (visited in 2013 and stayed for 90 days), Morocco’s transport system has been better and more impressive.

I don’t know if I am saying this because it’s the second time I’ve been so things are more familiar but if you are not up for renting a car, you can go around Morocco by:

🚌 Bus: No, no, no… This is not the old school buses you are picturing in your head. Morocco’s busses are very efficient and comfortable.

There are three major bus companies in Morocco but most tourists use CTM. On their website, you can see the availability of each trip together with trip duration and ticket prices.

🚆 Train: Trains are also a favorite but let me tell you that bus and train ride durations (even the scenic views) are the same. In fact, going by train can delay you a few minutes then taking a bus.

Not all Moroccan cities have access to trains so I suggest you only do this if you are not in a hurry or didn’t make it to the bus schedule. ONCF is the most popular train website in Morocco where you can see all the timetables and prices of each trip.

🚕 Shared taxi: Shared taxi or grand taxi is famous in Morocco if you want to cut a little cost. For as low as 15 MAD, you can go from place to place sharing with other people.

Please take note that the taxi only leaves when it’s full. This mode of transport tends to be very crowded and uncomfortable so if you want a little comfort, feel free to pay extra.

⛔ Morocco safety travel tips

• When walking in the Medinas, sellers and merchants will always force you to come “take a look” in their stores. They will not force you to buy but they can physically drag you to see their stores. If you are not interested, say no.
• When saying no doesn’t work, avoid eye contact. Don’t even say hi. I got tired of the small talks with the sellers on the street so, in the next days, I treated them as non-existent. I totally ignored them even if they were saying hi and trying to be nice. I acted like I wasn’t hearing anything nor I understand English. It worked!
• If you want to meet locals in Morocco, only go to Couchsurfing to find people. Moroccans who are signed up on CS are real travelers. Most of my best friends in Morocco are guys and I met them through Couchsurfing even without staying in their homes!
• I wrote about funny ways to avoid hustlers in Morocco. You can read it here.
• Drinking inn Morocco is not common but some establishments serve alcohol. In most Moroccan cities I’ve been to, there are a few specialty shops that will sell you alcohol. However, you have to bring your passport for identification. They only sell to foreigners. As for the “non-Muslim” part, I have no idea how they determine that.
• I don’t mean to scare you or anything. This is just a precaution. In December 2018, Louisa Vesterager Jespersen (24, from Denmark) and Maren Ueland (28, from Norway) were found beheaded in the High Atlas mountains in Morocco. This is a horrible horrible story of female travel so be alert. Do not go to places where there are fewer people (like the High Atlas). Stay in crowded places and join tour groups.

⁉️ FAQ: Morocco Itinerary