9 Day Itinerary
Fes to Chefchaouen & Sahara Desert.
9-Day Morocco Discovery Tour: From Fes to the Sahara and Beyond
Embark on an enriching 9-day adventure through Morocco, exploring ancient medinas, vibrant markets, breathtaking landscapes, and the vast Sahara Desert. This journey will take you from the cultural heart of Fes to the enchanting blue streets of Chefchaouen, the historical Roman ruins of Volubilis, and the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Immerse yourself in authentic Moroccan experiences, from Berber traditions to the rich flavors of local cuisine.
Is This Itinerary For Me?
Travel Style: Classic
Immerse yourself in Morocco's culture and history with all the must-see highlights. Experience moments that will make you say, "I can't believe we did that," as you explore ancient cities and stunning landscapes.
Physical Rating: 2 - Light
This itinerary involves light walking and hiking, suitable for most fitness levels. Activities are designed to be accessible, with optional add-ons available for those seeking more adventure.
Trip Type: Private Tour
Experience Morocco on your terms with a private tour tailored to your preferences. Enjoy personalized attention and flexibility as you explore the country's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage at your own pace.
Arrive in Fes
DAY 1
Photo: Doors of the Royal Palace in Fes
Day 1: Arrive in Fes
Upon arrival in Fes, you'll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your accommodations. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the chance to experience a Moroccan cooking class with souk tour to get acquainted with the city. Wander through the nearby streets, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and catch your first glimpses of the ancient medina.
Spend the evening at leisure, relaxing at your Riad or exploring the local surroundings to prepare for the adventures ahead.
Today's Transportation:
Private Transportation in 4x4 or minibus
Driving Time: Minimal
Today's Included Activities:
Private Transport from Airport to Accommodations
Today's Included Meals:
None
Today's Optional Add-ons:
Cooking Class with Souk Tour
Today's Highlights:
Example Included Accommodations:
Explore Fes
DAY 2
Photo: The Tanneries in Fes
Day 2: Fes
Today, immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Morocco with a guided day tour of Fes. Discover the bustling medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with labyrinthine alleys, vibrant souks, and historical landmarks like Al-Qarawiyyin University and Bou Inania Madrasa.
Enhance your experience with optional activities such as a pottery workshop, where you'll learn traditional ceramic techniques, or a cooking class that begins with an exciting souk food shopping experience, allowing you to create authentic Moroccan dishes.
Today's Transportation:
Private Transportation in 4x4 or minibus
Driving Time: Minimal
Today's Included Activities:
Day Tour of Fes
Today's Included Meals:
Breakfast at Accommodations
Today's Optional Add-ons:
Pottery Work Shop
Various Cooking Classes
Hammam Experience
Today's Highlights:
Example Included Accommodations:
Destination: The Blue City
DAY 3
Photo: Blue Streets of the Medina in Chefchaouen
Day 3: Fes – Chefchaouen
Depart Fes for the scenic drive to Chefchaouen, known for its striking blue-washed buildings nestled in the Rif Mountains. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of this enchanting city, exploring its narrow streets, charming plazas, and vibrant markets.
Take time to admire the unique architecture and capture stunning photos of the city’s picturesque corners. The relaxed atmosphere makes Chefchaouen a perfect place to unwind after your travels.
Today's Transportation:
Private Transportation in 4x4 or minibus
Driving Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Today's Included Activities:
Guided Tour of Chefchaouen
Today's Included Meals:
Breakfast at Accommodations
Today's Optional Add-ons:
No Add-Ons
Today's Highlights:
Example Included Accommodations:
Roman Ruins and the Switzerland of Morocco
DAY 4
Photo: Roman Ruins in the Village of Volubils
Day 4: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Ifrane
In the morning, start with an optional private photoshoot in the Blue City before you depart Chefchaouen and head towards the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. A guided tour will reveal the site’s remarkable mosaics, temples, and triumphal arches, offering a glimpse into Morocco's Roman past.
Afterward, continue to Ifrane, often referred to as the "Switzerland of Morocco" for its alpine-style architecture and clean, crisp environment.
Today's Transportation:
Private Transportation in 4x4 or minibus
Driving Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Today's Included Activities:
Guided Tour of Volubilis
Today's Included Meals:
Breakfast at Accommodations
Today's Optional Add-ons:
Private Photoshoot in Chefchaouen
Today's Highlights:
Example Included Accommodations:
Journey to the Sahara
DAY 5
Photo: Barbary Ape in the Cedar Forest near Azrou
Day 5: Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Merzouga
Journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Azrou's cedar forests, home to the playful Barbary macaques. Continue through Midelt, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, before descending towards the Sahara Desert.
Upon reaching Merzouga, embark on a mesmerizing sunset camel ride across the dunes of Erg Chebbi. The day concludes with a traditional Berber dinner and live music around a campfire at your desert camp, under the starry Sahara sky.
Today's Transportation:
Private Transportation in 4x4 or minibus
Driving Time: 6 hours
Today's Included Activities:
Meet the Cedar Forest Monkeys in Azrou
Sunset Camel Ride in the Sahara
Traditional Berber Music Around Campfire
Today's Included Meals:
Breakfast at Accommodations
Dinner in the Desert Camp
Today's Optional Add-ons:
None
Today's Highlights:
Example Included Accommodations:
Discover the Sahara
DAY 6
Photo: The Dunes of Erg Chebbi in the Sahara
Day 6: Desert Excursion to Nomads
Delve deeper into the Sahara with a full-day desert excursion. Visit a Berber family to learn about traditional desert life, explore the abandoned kohl mine and ghost town of M'fis, and experience the soulful Gnaoua music in Khamlia village.
For adventure seekers, try sandboarding down the golden dunes or opt for an exhilarating quad bike ride. Conclude the day with another magical evening around the campfire, immersed in Berber hospitality.
Today's Transportation:
Private Transportation in 4x4 or minibus
Driving Time: Minimal
Today's Included Activities:
4x4 Excursion through the Desert
Traditional Berber Music Around Campfire
Today's Included Meals:
Breakfast in the Desert Camp
Dinner in the Desert Camp
Today's Optional Add-ons:
Quad Bike Ride in the Dunes
Today's Highlights:
Example Included Accommodations:
Ancient Fossils & Desert Markets
DAY 7
Photo: Fossils from the Jurassic Period found near Erfoud, Morocco
Day 7: Merzouga – Erfoud – Rissani – Midelt
After breakfast, leave the desert behind and travel to Erfoud, known for its fascinating fossil workshops where you can learn about the region’s prehistoric treasures. Continue to Rissani, famous for its bustling desert markets offering a vibrant array of local goods.
Your journey continues through diverse landscapes to Midelt, where you'll enjoy a relaxing evening in preparation for the next day's exploration.
Today's Transportation:
Private Transportation in 4x4 or minibus
Driving Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
Today's Included Activities:
Ancient Fossils of the Sahara
Explore Markets of Desert Market
Today's Included Meals:
Breakfast in the Desert Camp
Dinner at Accommodations
Today's Optional Add-ons:
None
Today's Highlights:
Example Included Accommodations:
Meet the Imperial City of Meknes
DAY 8
Photo: Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail in Meknes
Day 8: Midelt – Meknes
Head towards Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, rich in history and architectural wonders. A guided tour will take you through the city's highlights, including Bab Mansour, the grand gate to the medina, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.
Consider an optional traditional cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare authentic Moroccan dishes under the guidance of local chefs, offering a flavorful end to your cultural journey.
Today's Transportation:
Private Transportation in 4x4 or minibus
Driving Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Today's Included Activities:
Guided Tour of Meknes
Today's Included Meals:
Breakfast in the Desert Camp
Today's Optional Add-ons:
Traditional Cooking Class
Today's Highlights:
Example Included Accommodations:
Depart Morocco
DAY 9
Photo: Bab Bou Jeloud, the Blue Gate, in Fes
Day 9: Midelt – Meknes
Conclude your Moroccan adventure with a private transfer to the airport for your departure. Reflect on the unforgettable memories and experiences gathered during your journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Today's Transportation:
Private Transportation in 4x4 or minibus
Driving Time: 1 hour
Today's Included Activities:
Private Transfer to Airport in Fes
Today's Included Meals:
Breakfast at Accommodations
Today's Optional Add-ons:
Extend Your Stay - Optional Extensions
Today's Highlights:
Make this Itinerary yours
Options & Extensions
Discover Marrakech
2 -3 Day Extension Suggested
Adding two or three extra days to your itinerary to visit Marrakech will give you time to fully explore the vibrant heart of Morocco. Marrakech is a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern luxuries. Spend a day wandering through the bustling souks of the medina, discovering artisans’ workshops, and finding unique handcrafted treasures. Visit the majestic Bahia Palace, the Koutoubia Mosque, and the serene Majorelle Garden, an oasis of greenery and vibrant blue buildings that offer a peaceful escape. Experience the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square in the evening, where storytellers, musicians, and food vendors create an unforgettable atmosphere. For those seeking a unique perspective, a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Palmeraie is a stunning way to see the city from above, adding a touch of adventure and unforgettable memories to your Moroccan journey.
Explore the Coast
1-2 Day Extension Suggested
Adding one or two days to explore Essaouira on the Moroccan coast introduces a refreshing seaside experience to your journey. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, historic medina, and sweeping Atlantic views, Essaouira is a haven for those looking to unwind amid its picturesque surroundings. Wander through the charming medina’s narrow streets, where blue-and-white facades and vibrant shops create a tranquil yet lively ambiance. Savor freshly caught seafood at the bustling port, and take a stroll along the beach, where the refreshing ocean breeze complements the city’s laid-back vibe. For those with an adventurous spirit, Essaouira’s breezy coastline is ideal for kite surfing or horseback riding along the shore. An overnight stay in this coastal gem allows you to immerse yourself in a different side of Morocco, blending culture, history, and relaxation.
Slow Down Your Pace
1-2 Day Extension Suggested
Choosing to add one or two extra days in any of the destinations on this itinerary allows for well-deserved downtime, offering a deeper connection to Morocco’s diverse landscapes and culture at a relaxed pace. Whether you spend an extra day in Fes to leisurely explore its maze-like medina and soak in the vibrant local life or extend your stay in the Blue City of Chefchaouen, these pauses add a restorative layer to your journey. Imagine lingering in the Sahara Desert for another night, basking in the quiet beauty of the star-filled sky and the serene surroundings. Taking a break to enjoy each location fully will add a sense of relaxation and balance, allowing you to recharge and savor every moment of Morocco’s diverse beauty.
