12 Day Morocco Itinerary

On the first day of your Morocco 12 day itinerary, you will meet your Guide / driver at Mohammed V international airport in Casablanca and get to know the cultural, historic and the economic center of Morocco.

Casablanca is a captivating city in which to begin your wonderful 12 day Morocco tour. Today, Casablanca is a modern city with boulevards, modern infrastructure and rich history. You will receive insight into the city’s history and heritage from your guide/driver.

Depending on your arrival time, you will see the most important sights of this city. Visit the Mohammed V Square, the famous Rick’s Café and the elegant Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral in the residential area of Anfa.

You will also visit the famous Hassan II Mosque, the fifth-largest mosque in the world, marvel at its Minaret, the second tallest in the world, and take a leisurely stroll along the seaside promenade of La Corniche in Ain Diab.

You will then be transported to your Hotel for your first night.

(Overnight in Casablanca)

After breakfast, on the second day of your 12 day tour from Casablanca, you will travel to Rabat, Morocco’s political capital and one of its four imperial cities. Home to grand royal palaces, historic monuments, government institutions, and elegant boulevards, Rabat offers a fascinating introduction to the country’s rich history and royal heritage.

During your sightseeing tour, visit the impressive Royal Palace, home to the King of Morocco, before exploring the iconic Hassan Tower, the magnificent Mohammed V Mausoleum, and the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Bou Regreg River.

After lunch, your Morocco itinerary 12 days takes you into the scenic Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen, Morocco’s famous Blue City.

This charming mountain town is renowned for its famous blue painted streets, blue houses, whitewashed buildings and artistic atmosphere. Founded in the 15th century, Chefchaouen became home to Jewish and Muslim refugees fleeing the Spanish Inquisition and is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in the world.

Chefchaouen presents glorious photo opportunities, and walking through its charming streets feels like wandering through a dreamland.

(Overnight in Chefchaouen)

On day 3 of your 12 day Morocco itinerary, and after breakfast, enjoy a private guided tour of Chefchaouen, Morocco’s famous Blue City. Wander through its narrow blue-painted streets with your Grand Morocco expert local guide as you discover the rich history, culture, and unique charm of this enchanting mountain town.

Visit Ras El Maa, the Kasbah Museum, the Spanish Mosque, Plaza Uta el-Hammam, and many other hidden gems. The town’s blue-painted buildings and whitewashed houses create a magical atmosphere, making every stroll feel like walking through a living work of art.

Leaving the beautiful Chefchaouen after lunch, your 12 day Morocco tour continues through the spectacular Rif Mountains towards the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, where you will enjoy a guided walking tour of one of Morocco’s most remarkable archaeological treasures.

Morocco has one of the richest historical and cultural heritages in the world, shaped by centuries of diverse civilizations, including the Romans. Founded in the 3rd century BC, Volubilis flourished under Roman rule as an important administrative centre and is home to some of the finest Roman ruins in North Africa.

Among its most remarkable remains are luxurious Roman villas with beautifully preserved mosaics, spacious courtyards, the impressive Basilica, the Triumphal Arch built between AD 216 and 217, temples, and many other fascinating archaeological treasures. Thanks to its exceptional historical significance, Volubilis was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Continue to Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city and one of the country’s greatest cultural treasures. Often referred to as the “Mecca of the West” and the “Athens of Africa,” Fes is renowned for its ancient medina, vibrant souks, magnificent architecture, and rich intellectual and spiritual heritage. With its timeless atmosphere and remarkable history, this fascinating city offers an unforgettable glimpse into Morocco’s past.

Get ready to discover its wonders in depth during your full-day guided sightseeing tour tomorrow.

(Overnight in Fes)

After a delicious Moroccan breakfast in your charming riad, you will begin a full-day guided sightseeing tour of Fes with your expert local guide. This experience is one of the highlights of your Morocco 12 day itinerary, offering a fascinating journey through the city’s rich history, culture, and traditions. As you explore, you will quickly discover why Fes is regarded as the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco.

As you adventure through this UNESCO listed imperial city, every stop along the way reveals another fascinating chapter in the history, culture, and architectural heritage of Fes.

• Bab Boujloud (The Blue Gate): Begin your journey at this 12th-century gateway, a masterpiece of Andalusian and Moroccan craftsmanship, adorned with blue tiles on one side and green tiles on the other, symbolizing the city’s religious and cultural significance.
• Mellah (Jewish Quarter): Stroll through the historic Mellah, Morocco’s oldest Jewish quarter, built near the Royal Palace in 1438 to provide protection for the Jewish community. The area is known for its distinctive balconies, wooden architecture, and centuries-old synagogues.
• Dar el Makhzen (Royal Palace of Fes): Marvel at the largest royal palace in Morocco, famous for its seven magnificent golden gates, beautifully decorated with marble, brass, carved cedarwood, and intricate zellij mosaics. Although the palace is not open to visitors, its spectacular façade is one of the most iconic landmarks in Fes.
• Chouara Tannery: Step back in time at the 11th-century Chouara Tannery, the oldest leather tannery in the world. Witness the traditional leather-dyeing process, where skilled artisans use natural dyes and centuries-old techniques to produce Morocco’s finest leather goods.
• Borj Sud: Enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Fes from this ancient fortress, offering a spectacular vantage point over the labyrinth-like Medina. This viewpoint provides a stunning perspective of the UNESCO-listed city.
• Fes Pottery Cooperative: Visit a traditional pottery cooperative, where skilled artisans create the intricate ceramics and colourful zellij mosaics that decorate palaces, riads, mosques, and homes throughout Morocco. Observe the delicate craftsmanship of Fassi pottery, a legacy passed down for generations.
• University of Al-Qarawiyyin: Discover the world’s oldest continuously operating university, founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri. Recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records, this historic educational institution has played a crucial role in shaping Morocco’s intellectual and spiritual landscape.
• Bou Inania Madrasa (14th-Century Religious School): Admire one of Morocco’s finest examples of Marinid architecture, renowned for its intricate cedarwood carvings, elegant marble floors, and exquisite geometric tilework.
• Lunch in the Medina: Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at an authentic local restaurant, where you can savor classic Fassi dishes, known for their rich flavors and aromatic spices.
• Moulay Idriss Mausoleum: Visit the final resting place of Moulay Idriss II, founder of Fes and one of Morocco’s most revered historical figures. This sacred site holds great cultural and spiritual significance.
• Madrasa Al-Attarine: A magnificent 14th-century school adorned with ornate tilework, zellij patterns, and beautifully carved cedar wood.

As you wander through the narrow alleyways of the ancient medina, your expert local guide will share fascinating insights into Moroccan history, Berber traditions, and the rich cultural heritage of Fes. This unforgettable guided tour is undoubtedly one of the highlights of your 12 days in Morocco, offering a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness the living history of one of Morocco’s most fascinating cities.

(Overnight in Fes)

Today marks the beginning of one of the most memorable chapters of your Morocco itinerary 12 days as you travel towards the magnificent Sahara Desert, home to towering golden dunes and unforgettable desert landscapes.

Your first stop will be Ifrane, often referred to as the “Little Switzerland of Morocco,” where you can take time to enjoy its stunning natural scenery. This enchanting mountain town is renowned for its alpine-style architecture, crisp mountain air, and peaceful surroundings, offering a refreshing contrast to Morocco’s desert landscapes and historic imperial cities.

Nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains at an altitude of approximately 1,664 meters, Ifrane is known for its mountainous terrain and cold winter climate. In 1935, the town recorded Africa’s lowest temperature, reaching −24°C, highlighting its unique alpine conditions.

A winter paradise, Ifrane is a popular destination for skiing and snow lovers. Beyond winter, its charm continues year-round, with tranquil lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush green valleys creating a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and travelers seeking tranquillity.

From here, you will travel through the green Middle Atlas Mountains, home to the largest cedar forests in Morocco, where you may spot playful Barbary apes among the trees. This species is found only in Morocco, Algeria, and Gibraltar.

You will stop for lunch in the town of Midelt, set between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, where you can enjoy a traditional Moroccan tajine. The drive then continues through the striking Ziz Valley, often called the Moroccan Grand Canyon, home to one of the largest palm groves in Morocco, where a sea of palms stretches between dramatic ancient cliffs.

Marvel at a dense canopy of palms nestled between ancient, striated cliffs dating back to the Jurassic period, a magical landscape that feels almost timeless. Pause along the way to take in the breathtaking vistas, capture memorable photos, and enjoy the serene beauty of this majestic valley.

By late afternoon, you will arrive at the magnificent dunes of Erg Chebbi, the gateway to the great Sahara desert and home to some of the tallest dunes in North Africa. Here you will meet your camel and guide and set off on an unforgettable ride across the golden sands, deep into the desert as the evening light begins to fall.

You will reach your Berber Sahara desert camp just in time to watch the sun set over the dunes. Spend the evening around the campfire enjoying a delicious dinner and traditional Berber music, while the Milky Way and millions of stars light up the desert sky above you.

(Overnight in a Berber Sahara desert camp)

On day 6 of this 12 day Morocco itinerary, you may climb the dunes to watch a spectacular sunrise over the Sahara Desert, followed by a traditional Berber breakfast.

Begin your day with an optional ATV quad biking excursion through the Sahara Desert. Enjoy the thrill of driving across the golden dunes and vast open landscapes, stopping along the way to take in the silence and beauty of the desert. A professional guide will accompany you throughout the experience to ensure your safety.

Explore the Berber farms and fields of the desert town of Merzouga and marvel at the ingenious underground irrigation system that provides water for family agriculture and the region’s spectacular date palms.

Visit Dayet Srij, also known as Flamingo Lake. During spring, this seasonal lake attracts a variety of bird species, including Greater Flamingos, Desert Warblers, Egyptian Nightjars, Falcons, and Desert Sparrows. Other wildlife that may be spotted in the area includes hedgehogs, lizards, and desert foxes.

Enjoy a delicious lunch of Berber Pizza, which is a food specialty of the desert town of Merzouga.

Visit the Black Village of Khamlia, a small village with a big story. Located at the foothills of the Merzouga dunes, at the gateway to the great Sahara Desert, Khamlia is home to Black African and Berber families who have preserved a unique cultural heritage for generations.

For centuries, people from Sub-Saharan Africa, including regions that are now Sudan, Senegal, Mali and Niger, were brought across the Sahara to Morocco as part of the trans-Saharan slave trade. During these difficult journeys, music and rhythmic chanting became important sources of comfort and resilience.

Today, many of Khamlia’s residents are descendants of these communities. During your visit to a local Gnawa music association, you will enjoy a cup of tea and listen to a live performance of traditional Gnawa music. Performed with rhythmic chants and traditional instruments, this captivating musical heritage has been passed down through generations and remains an important part of Khamlia’s cultural identity.

You will also visit a nomadic Berber family, where you can share a cup of tea and gain insight into their traditional way of life. Learn about their customs, daily routines, and how they have adapted to life in the harsh yet beautiful Sahara environment.

Head to your riad or hotel in front of the sand sea for a rest or a swim at your leisure.

This authentic day in the Sahara is one of the highlights of our 12 days Morocco itinerary, offering a deeper connection with the people, culture, and landscapes of the desert.

(Overnight in the Sahara Desert)

After having experienced two memorable nights in the spectacular sand sea dunes of Sahara, we depart for the city of Erfoud, known for its marble, dates and as a global hub for fossil stones. It is famous for its incredible fossil beds, including fascinating marine fossils (coiled goniatites, orthoceras, trilobites, etc.) which date back as far as 521 million years. An intriguing visit to a fossil museum is possible, where you can witness some of these ancient specimens.

After leaving Erfoud, you will drive towards the famous Todgha Gorge, near the town of Tinghir. On the way, enjoy scenic panoramic views of the old Jewish and Berber mud villages overlooking the Todgha Valley.

The Todgha Gorge is one of the most beautiful canyons in Morocco. Tall red cliffs rise up to 400 metres on both sides of a narrow river, which slowly carved the rock over thousands of years. Today the gorge is famous around the world and a favourite spot for rock climbers and photographers. You will have some free time to walk along the river, enjoy the cool air, and take in the views.

In this area lives a large community of Berber nomads. Sometimes you may see Berber nomad women with traditional tattoos on their faces, herding their goats to drink at the river’s edge or collecting water that their mules carry back to the caves where they live.

After lunch, continue your 12 day tour from Casablanca towards one of the most beautiful valleys in the Kingdom and enjoy the colourful Berber mud villages overlooking the amazing Dades Valley. Drive along the spectacular valley to discover the remarkable rock formations known as “monkey toes” or “monkey fingers.” These extraordinary shapes are sandstone formations that have been slowly eroded over thousands of years by rain, water, and wind.

The Dades Valley prides itself on its production of roses, walnuts, and groves of palm and almond trees. Once the site of ancient nomad crossings, the valley is dotted with oases and mud brick palaces known as kasbahs, which give the area its famous name, the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs.

Arrive at your riad or hotel in the late afternoon and spend the night in one of Morocco’s most beautiful valleys.

(Overnight in the Dades Valley)

On day 8 of this Morocco 12 day itinerary, after breakfast and spending the night in the heart of the beautiful Dades Valley, journey through the captivating Valley of Roses in Kelaat M’gouna, a town celebrated as the Rose Capital of Morocco. Known for its lush fields of Damask roses, the valley blooms with vibrant colors, creating a stunning landscape that is both fragrant and picturesque. Each May, the town comes alive with the annual rose harvest festival, where the crowning of Miss Rose of Morocco adds a festive flair to this already magical destination.

Continue through the Road of the thousand Kasbahs, the iconic Berber mud brick villages and earth castles to the city of Ouarzazate known as the “Hollywood of Africa” and the gateway to the Sahara Desert. It was a former caravan town on the silk and salt route in the eastern foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. There may be an opportunity for photo stops and to visit one of the many cinema studios, for which the city is well known.

Next, you will visit the spectacular UNESCO listed Ksar Aït Benhaddou, one of the most eye-catching filming locations in Africa.

Stop for a walking visit to explore the 11th-century World Heritage site, listed by UNESCO in 1987. This Ksar, or fortified village, is one of the most intriguing of the red earth castles lining the ancient road of the camel caravans, standing as one of the oldest and best-preserved mud villages in Morocco.

It was once a commercial hub for Trans Saharan caravan traders and has been the backdrop for many international movies, such as Gladiator, The Odyssey, The Mummy, Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones, Prince of Persia, Indiana Jones, Kingdom of Heaven and many more. This iconic destination is a must-see for anyone booking this 12 days Morocco itinerary, offering a blend of cinematic allure and history.

In the afternoon, continue your Morocco itinerary from Casablanca across the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters), one of the most breathtaking mountain routes in Morocco, before arriving in the magical city of Marrakech.

(Overnight in Marrakech)

Day 9 of your 12 day Morocco itinerary is dedicated entirely to exploring the magnificent city of Marrakech, where you will embark on a full-day city tour discovering the rich cultural heritage and antiquity of this enchanting city.

Your Grand Morocco expert local guide will lead you through the UNESCO World Heritage listed, ancient-walled Medina, founded in 1070 AD by the Almoravid dynasty. Marrakech has been home to the Berbers, the indigenous people of North Africa, whose presence in the region dates back to more than 1700 BC.

• Explore the world famous UNESCO-listed Jemaa el Fna plaza, listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, in the heart of Marrakech, a destination of pure magic and a symbol of the ochre tinged city where you will find a truly unique atmosphere of snake charmers, storytellers, traditional musicians and Marrakech’s legendary souks, to mention just a few.
• Visit the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque, the largest in Marrakech, and its 77 metre high minaret. It was completed during the reign of the Berber Almohad caliph Yaqub al-Mansour (1184-1199), and inspired other buildings such as the Giralda of Seville and the Hassan Tower of Rabat. Local laws restrict any new building projects from exceeding the height of the minaret, providing a focal point for all to enjoy.
• Visit Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan and Andalusian architecture and a major monument of Morocco’s heritage. This 19th-century palace was built by Ba Ahmed, the grand vizier of Marrakech, and named after his favourite wife Bahia. Craftsmen worked on this palace for fourteen years.
• Visit Ben Youssef Madrasa, a 14th-century school founded by the Moroccan Monarch Abu el Hassan, another beautiful example of Moroccan and Andalusian architecture. The Saadian dynasty enlarged and redecorated the building in 1570 and it became the largest Islamic college in North Africa.
• Explore the historic Mellah, Marrakech’s old Jewish quarter. This charming neighborhood reflects the long history of the Jewish community in the city and the peaceful coexistence that existed for centuries between Jewish and Muslim residents. Its narrow streets and traditional homes offer a unique glimpse into this shared cultural heritage.
• Visit the Saadian Tombs, a major attraction for visitors of Marrakech and one of the few remaining vestiges of the Saadian dynasty, who reigned over the golden age of Marrakech between 1524 and 1659. Remarkably, these tombs were rediscovered in 1917 after being sealed for centuries by Sultan Moulay Ismail, making them one of the most fascinating historical discoveries in Morocco.
• Visit the Majorelle Garden, designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle in 1923 and later restored by the iconic designer Yves Saint Laurent, a haven of tranquillity amidst the vibrant city of Marrakech. You will also explore the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, where you will discover the life, artistic work, and lasting legacy of this legendary fashion icon, whose love for Morocco and Marrakech inspired some of his most iconic creations.

After a full day discovering the highlights of Marrakech, enjoy a free evening in the city at your own pace as another memorable day of your 12 days in Morocco comes to an end.

(Overnight in Marrakech)

On day 10 of this Morocco itinerary 12 days, leave the energy of Marrakech behind and travel west towards the Atlantic coast and the charming port city of Essaouira, known for its beautiful beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and UNESCO-listed medina.

On the way, drive through the largest Argan forest in Morocco, the only region in the world where the Argan tree grows naturally. Stop to visit a women’s cooperative, where you will see the traditional process of extracting the famous Argan oil, known as Morocco’s liquid gold. Keep your eyes open along the way for the famous tree-climbing goats, one of Morocco’s most unusual sights.

Explore Essaouira’s most important landmarks, including the old fish market and seaport. Watch silver craftsmen and wood carvers at work in the old medina, where the labyrinth of streets is lined with heavy wooden doors and whitewashed houses. Discover the historic 18th-century ramparts, from where you will enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean stretching endlessly before you.

Wander through the souks, traditional workshops, and art galleries of the ancient medina, enjoying every moment of this charming coastal city.

Visit Orson Welles Square and enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood straight from the Atlantic.

End the day with a walk along one of Morocco’s most beautiful beaches, dipping your toes into the Atlantic Ocean and enjoying the fresh sea breeze. Optional activities along the beach include surfing and kitesurfing, horse riding, ATV quad biking, and camel riding.

(Overnight in Essaouira)

After a wonderful night in Essaouira, take some time this morning to enjoy one final stroll along the beach or through the charming medina before bidding farewell to this beautiful coastal city. Essaouira is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave, a perfect ending to your Morocco 12 day tour from Casablanca.

Essaouira is a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, majestic sunsets, and Argan trees. Enjoy fresh seafood, explore local markets, and relax on the town’s charming beach. Despite its small size, Essaouira has a thriving tourism and fishing economy and remains a popular destination for visitors from around the world. The town’s laid-back atmosphere and pristine coastline make it one of the most relaxing stops on your journey through Morocco.

After lunch, enjoy a scenic drive along the Atlantic coastline back to Casablanca, watching the ocean shimmer beside you as you reflect on the unforgettable experiences, landscapes, and cultural encounters that have made your 12 days in Morocco so special.

(Overnight in Casablanca)

Your 12 day Morocco tour comes to an end today. After a final Moroccan breakfast, our driver will transfer you to Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca for your departure.

As you head home, you will carry with you memories of a wonderful journey through one of the most beautiful and fascinating countries in the world. From the imperial cities of the north to the golden dunes of the Sahara and the windswept shores of the Atlantic coast, this 12 day Morocco itinerary covers the very best this incredible country has to offer, and we are confident you will love every moment of it.