8 Day Morocco Itinerary

On the first day of your Morocco 8 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 8 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 8 day Morocco itinerary, 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.

Continue to the imperial city of Meknes. Here, you will visit the magnificent 18th-century Bab Mansour Gate, considered one of the finest monumental gates in North Africa. Discover Lahdim Square, the Royal Stables, and the impressive Bassin Souani.

You will also visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the Sultan of Morocco from 1672 to 1727, and gain insight into the life and achievements of one of the country’s most influential rulers.

After lunch, travel to Volubilis, an ancient city founded in the 3rd century BC that flourished under Roman rule between the 1st and 3rd centuries AD. Enjoy a guided walking tour as you explore its mosaics, public squares, and temples, discovering one of North Africa’s best-preserved Roman settlements. Today, Volubilis is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s rich Roman history.

In the late afternoon, continue 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 Morocco itinerary 8 days, 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 journey 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.
• 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.
• 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 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.

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 full day city tour of Fes is without doubt one of the highlights of this 8 days Morocco itinerary. A truly unique experience that allows you to step back in time and witness the living history of Morocco’s most fascinating city.

(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 Morocco 8 days 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 8 day tour from Casablanca.

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 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 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.

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 8 day Morocco trip 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 6 of our Morocco 8 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, 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 8 days in Morocco tour, 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 world-famous Argan Oil on your way to the magical city of Marrakech.

(Overnight in Marrakech)

Day 7 of this 8 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.

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

(Overnight in Marrakech)

On the last day of your 8 day Morocco tour, 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 8 days in Morocco itinerary 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.