Morocco itinerary 8 Days

After breakfast, on the second day of your Morocco itinerary 8 days, you will travel to Rabat, the political and administrative capital. This city is home to grand royal palaces, government institutions, and embassies, showcasing Morocco’s refined history and heritage.

In Rabat, you will visit the UNESCO-listed Hassan Tower and the majestic Mohammed V Mausoleum. Explore the historic Kasbah of the Udayas and the official residence of the King of Morocco, where you will gain insight into Morocco’s royal history and traditional craftsmanship.

Next, your Morocco trip 8 days takes you to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. Discover the stunning Bab Mansour gate, stroll through El Hedim Square, and explore the Royal Stables and the impressive Sahrij Souani basin. You will also visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the powerful sultan who ruled Morocco from 1672 to 1727, and learn about his remarkable life and lasting legacy.

After lunch, travel to Volubilis, an ancient Roman city that once served as an important administrative center. Walk among its mosaics, public squares, and temples, discovering a city that thrived over 2,000 years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s rich Roman history.

Finally, you will travel to Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city. The city is famous for its 9th-century medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world. Fes is known for its rich history, traditional crafts, and vibrant culture. A highlight of your 8 days in Morocco itinerary, Fes promises many amazing sights that you will explore on your full-day guided tour tomorrow.

(Overnight in Fes).

After a delicious Moroccan breakfast in your charming Riad, you will begin a full day heritage city tour of Fes with your expert local guide. This experience is a highlight of your 8 day Morocco itinerary, offering a deep dive into the city’s rich history, culture, and traditions. As you explore, you will discover why Fes is often called the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco.

As you explore this UNESCO-listed imperial city, each stop along the way will enrich your 8 days tour from Casablanca with history, culture, and breathtaking sights.

• 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 offer protection to the Jewish community. The area is known for its unique 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 grand golden doors, intricately designed with marble, copper, and mesmerizing mosaics. Though the interior is closed to visitors, its stunning façade is a must-see.

• 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.

• 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 artisans use natural dyes and age-old techniques to produce Morocco’s finest leather goods. Exploring this tannery will be one of the standout experiences of your 8 days in Morocco.

• Fes Pottery Cooperative: Visit a traditional pottery factory, where artisans craft intricate ceramics and mosaics that adorn half of 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 this architectural masterpiece of the Marinid Dynasty, with its intricate cedarwood carvings, marble floors, and 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.

• Nejjarine Museum: Explore this fascinating museum dedicated to Moroccan woodworking and traditional crafts, housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century caravanserai.

While navigating the narrow alleyways, your expert local guide will provide in-depth insights into Moroccan history, Berber traditions, and the cultural significance of Fes. This immersive experience allows you to step back in time and witness the living history of Morocco’s most treasured city. An enchanting day of discovery you will enjoy while on your 8 day Morocco trip.

(Overnight in Fes).

Today, you will begin your spectacular journey towards the magical and legendary Sahara Desert, the largest hot desert in the world and where the undulating golden dunes glisten like gold in the sunlight. Travel dreams do come true and this visit to the Sahara may be one of the highlights of your 8 days Morocco itinerary.

Visit Ifrane, often referred to as the “Little Switzerland of Morocco,” and take time to enjoy its stunning natural landscapes. This enchanting mountain town is renowned for its alpine-style architecture, crisp mountain air, and captivating alpine landscapes, offering a refreshing and serene atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with Morocco’s desert and imperial cities and adds a peaceful pause to your Morocco 8 days itinerary.

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 tranquility.

Navigate the green and superb Middle Atlas Mountains, marvel at the largest Cedar plantations in Africa and be captivated by the antics of the Barbary Apes. This species of Apes is found only in Morocco, Gibraltar and Algeria.

Stop in Midelt town for lunch and savor a traditional Moroccan tajine or freshly grilled barbecue. Then, continue your journey through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains and into the dramatic Ziz Valley, also known as the “Moroccan Grand Canyon,” home to Morocco’s largest palm grove oasis.

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.

Continue travel to the eminent dunes of Erg Chebbi and experience the glory of the Sahara Desert. Erg Chebbi is regarded as the gateway to the Grand African Sahara and has some dunes considered the highest sand dunes in North Africa at 350 M elevation.

Meet your camel caravan and the experienced camel man, who will guide your trek to explore the mysterious Sahara sand sea, an alluring and a unique trek that will make your Morocco tour 8 days a memorable experience.

Enjoy a charming sunset over the Erg Chebbi dunes and spend the night in a Sahara desert camp. Enjoy a traditional dinner and relax by the campfire while listening to Berber drum music under the Milky Way stars. Experience the quiet beauty of the Sahara desert and a night you’ll always remember.

(Overnight in a Sahara desert camp).

Before sunrise, you may climb the sand dunes for a fantastic view of the amazing sunrise in the Sahara Desert, followed by a typical traditional Berber breakfast.

Begin your day with an optional 1-hour ATV Quad excursion through the Sahara Desert. Enjoy the exhilaration of speeding through the sands and up the dunes, where you will stop to enjoy a peaceful moment with just sky and sand dunes for as far as you can see. You will have a professional guide to ensure your safety.

After having experienced a memorable night 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.

Leaving Erfoud and continuing your Morocco itinerary 8 days, we depart towards Tinghir, where we will deviate to a minor road following the river of Todgha Gorge. Contemplate the scenic panoramic views of the old Jewish and Berber mud villages, overlooking the valley. Some time at leisure to enjoy the immensity of the huge red cliffs, 400M elevation, where many international rock climbers come to enjoy their preferred sport.

The Todgha Gorge is recognised worldwide for being one of the most spectacular rocky canyons. No wonder this place has been used for filming many movies due to its magnificent natural setting, one of the most famous movies being the “Mummy”.

In this area, lives a large community of Berber nomads. Sometimes, you can sight Berber nomad women, who have Berber tattoos on their faces. They may be seen herding their goats to drink water at the river’s edge and collecting their own water, which is carried by their mules back to the caves where they live.

After lunch, continue your 8 days in Morocco itinerary toward one of the most beautiful valleys in the Kingdom and enjoy colourful Berber mud villages overlooking the amazing Dades Valley. Drive along the spectacular Dades Valley to discover the amazing rock formations known as “monkey toes” or “monkey fingers”. These extraordinary formations are metamorphic rocks that have been severely eroded over thousands of years by rain, water (which has caused a chemical breakdown of the rock), wind, and possibly sandstorms.

The Dades Valley prides itself for the extensive production of roses, wall nuts, groves of palm and almond trees. It was the site of ancient nomad crossings and the valley is dotted with oases and mud brick palaces known as Kasbahs, which gives the region its fairy tale nickname. Then it is time to arrive at your Riad / Hotel for a peaceful night in the Dades Valley.

(Overnight in Dades valley).

After breakfast and spending the night in the heart of the beautiful Dades valley, journey through the captivating Valley of Roses in Kelaat Mgouna, a town celebrated as the Rose Capital of Morocco. Known for its lush fields of Damaskina 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 Ait Benhaddou, one of the most eye-catching filming locations in Africa.

Stop for a walking visit to explore the 14th century World Heritage site, listed in 1987. This Ksar or village is one of the most intriguing of the red earth castles lining the ancient road of the camel caravans and it is the oldest mud village 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, Game of Thrones, Prince of Persia, Indiana Jones, Kingdom of Heaven and many more. This iconic destination is a must-see for anyone booking our Morocco trip 8 days, offering a blend of cinematic allure and history.

In the afternoon, cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters) and witness the production of the world famous Argan Oil on the way to the magic city of Marrakech.

(Overnight in Marrakech).

On this day, you will embark on a full day city tour of exotic and vibrant Marrakech, exploring in-depth, the rich cultural heritage and antiquity of this enchanting city.

Your expert local guide will lead you through the UNESCO World Heritage listed, ancient-walled Medina, which dates back to the ancient Berber inhabitants and which extends back to more than 1700 BC. This experience is a highlight of your 8 day Morocco trip and offers a deep dive into the city’s history and culture.

• Explore the world famous UNESCO site of Jemaa el Fna plaza in the heart of Marrakech, a destination of all magic and a symbol of the ochre tinged city where you will find a different and a unique atmosphere like snake charmers, storytellers, traditional musicians and Marrakech’s legendary souks to mention just a few.

• Visit the 12th century and largest mosque in Marrakech, Koutoubia Mosque and its 77 meter 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 Saadian tombs, a major attraction for the 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.

• Visit the Majorelle Garden, a haven of tranquillity amidst the vibrant city of Marrakech, and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum to explore the life, work, and legacy of the iconic designer.

Spend a free evening in Marrakech, enjoying the city at your own pace before the final day of your 8 days in Morocco itinerary.

(Overnight in Marrakech).

On the last day of your Morocco tour 8 days, you will have a free morning to explore Marrakech at your own pace. You may choose to visit a traditional Moroccan hammam or spa to relax before your journey home.

At the agreed time, we will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Marrakech Menara International Airport or Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport for your onward flight.

Your Morocco trip 8 days with Grand Morocco Tours comes to an end, a journey designed to show you the best of Morocco, and one we are sure you will truly enjoy.