10 Day Authentic Morocco Tour from Marrakech to the Desert

At 9:00 a.m., your journey will begin as you leave Marrakech behind, crossing the High Atlas Mountains. As you ascend the Tizi N'Tichka Pass, marvel at the striking landscape and the small Berber villages nestled in the mountain slopes. Your first major stop will be the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, a beautifully preserved kasbah famous for its earthen buildings, often featured in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. After a tour of the kasbah, you will continue to Ouarzazate, a city often referred to as the "Gateway to the Desert." Explore the Taourirt Kasbah, a historic building showcasing Moroccan architecture, and visit the Atlas Film Studios before spending the night in Ouarzazate.

On this day, you will leave Ouarzazate and drive to Skoura, a village famous for its palm groves and Amredhyle Kasbah.

From here, the road takes you through the Valley of the Roses, a picturesque region known for its rose gardens. You will then stop at Kella M'Gouna to see the roses being harvested.

Continue your journey to Tinghir, a village nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Todra Valley. Enjoy a local lunch before heading to the Todra Gorges, where towering limestone cliffs rise sharply on either side of the river.

Spend time exploring the gorge or simply relaxing by the river. Your night will be spent in a hotel in Tinghir.

Early in the morning, you will leave Tinghir and pass through Tinjdad and Jorf, where you will feel the transition from lush landscapes to the more arid Saharan oasis of Tafilalet.

Continue on to Erfoud, a gateway to the Sahara Desert.

From here, head towards Merzouga, where you will be greeted by the vast Erg Chebbi sand dunes. Take a short rest before embarking on a camel trek into the dunes. As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful camel ride to your desert camp, where you will spend the night under the stars, accompanied by traditional Berber music and a delicious dinner prepared by the local staff.

After a morning of relaxation, your day will begin with a visit to the nearby Khamlia Village, known for its Gnawa musicians who play soul-stirring rhythms on traditional instruments.

Then, explore the Nomad villages, where you will get a firsthand glimpse of the desert-dwelling Berber way of life.

You may have the opportunity to buy traditional handmade crafts, such as carpets and jewelry. In the afternoon, you will enjoy a camel ride through the Erg Chebbi dunes, followed by a night under the stars in a traditional Berber tent.

After breakfast, head towards Errachidia, driving through the desert landscapes of Erfoud and Aoufous, with a stop for panoramic views of the Ziz Valley, dotted with palm groves and ancient kasbahs.

Continue to Midelt, located between the Atlas Mountains and Sahara, known for its apple orchards.

After lunch, head toward Ifrane, often called "the Switzerland of Morocco" for its Alpine-style buildings and pine forests. You may even spot the Barbary apes along the way.

Continue to Fes, where you will check into your riad in the ancient Fes Medina.

Spend a full day discovering the wonders of Fes, one of Morocco’s most historic cities. Visit the University of Al Karaouine, the oldest existing educational institution in the world, and explore the Mellah, the old Jewish Quarter.

Wander the narrow, winding alleys of the Fes Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Bou Inania Madrasa and the Tanneries of Fes, where you can see the traditional process of leather-making. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch before continuing to explore the city's stunning architecture and bustling souks.

After breakfast, begin your journey back to Marrakech. Your drive takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains, with a stop in Beni Mellal, a charming town at the foot of Mount Tassemit, where you can enjoy views of the surrounding landscapes.

Continue south, with a brief stop in Marrakech's Palmeraie, before checking into your hotel in the vibrant Medina.

In the evening, head to the lively Jemaa El Fna, where the square transforms into a bustling hub of food vendors, entertainers, and storytellers.

Today, you will explore the highlights of Marrakech with a local guide. Visit the serene Majorelle Garden, designed by the French artist Jacques Majorelle, and the Koutoubia Mosque, one of Marrakech’s most iconic landmarks.

Wander the souks in the Medina, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and traditional Moroccan crafts. You will also visit the Saadian Tombs, a beautiful historical site, and experience the lively atmosphere of Jemaa El Fna once more before returning to your riad.

On the final day of your journey, you will be transferred to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure, concluding your incredible 10 day adventure across Morocco. If time allows, enjoy a last stroll through the Medina or indulge in a final cup of Moroccan mint tea before bidding farewell.