Overview
Embark on a remarkable 14-day Moroccan adventure departing from Marrakech and tracing the legendary Kasbah Trail. Immerse yourself in the true essence of Moroccan culture as you connect with locals in remote villages. This comprehensive tour seamlessly blends breathtaking landscapes and a rich historical tapestry, allowing you to delve into the heart of Morocco.
Our 14-day journey begins in the vibrant city of Marrakech, then winds through the enchanting Dades Valley, across the awe-inspiring High Atlas Mountains adorned with Berber villages. Further south, you’ll reach the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most celebrated, filmed, and photographed Kasbahs.
Highlights of the 14-Day Morocco Tour from Marrakech
Program itinerary for the 14-Day Morocco Trip from Marrakech:
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech
Upon your arrival in Marrakech, we’ll warmly welcome you and arrange a smooth transfer to your chosen hotel or Riad. Take this opportunity to unwind and settle in for your upcoming adventure. Overnight stay in Marrakech.
Day 2: Marrakech Guided Tour
Embark on an enriching exploration of Marrakech, often referred to as the “Southern Pearl” of Morocco. This ancient imperial city has been a pivotal stop for traders and travelers throughout history. Your guided tour includes visits to Menara Gardens, the renowned Jardin Majorelle, Bahia Palace, and the historic Saadian tombs.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the grandeur of Koutoubia Mosque, with its towering 77-meter minaret. Continue your journey to Djemaa el-Fna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a cultural hub where you can relax at one of the charming cafes while taking in the vibrant surroundings. Explore the bustling and colorful souks of Marrakech. Another restful night awaits in Marrakech.
Day 3: Marrakech to Essaouira [202 km]
Leaving Marrakech behind, we’ll head towards the picturesque coastal town of Essaouira. Enjoy a scenic drive lined with argan oil cooperatives en route to this UNESCO World Heritage-listed gem.
Essaouira, a windswept fishing port with expansive beaches and a historic walled medina, has long been a popular destination. Explore the charming medina, stroll along the fortified ramparts, relax on the beach, or visit the bustling port to witness the daily catch. If your visit coincides with June, you might even catch the Gnaouas Music Festival. Overnight stay in a local Riad in Essaouira.
Day 4: Essaouira to Oualidia [205 km]
Today, we depart from Essaouira to Oualidia, making a stop in Safi, a town renowned for its pottery and once under Portuguese control. Safi is also famous for its sardine exports.
Arrive in Oualidia, a charming seaside village nestled between a protected lagoon and the wild Atlantic Ocean. Here, you’ll have an array of activities to choose from, including walking, birdwatching, fishing, swimming, kayaking, kite surfing, and surfing. Oualidia is a birdwatcher’s paradise, particularly in Spring and Autumn. Your overnight stay will be in Oualidia.
Day 5: Oualidia to Rabat [288 km]
Depart Oualidia for Rabat, continuing your journey along the beautiful Atlantic Coast. En route, you’ll pass through El Jadida, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history, and Casablanca, where you’ll visit Mohammed V Square and the impressive Hassan II Mosque.
In Rabat, explore the Imperial City’s highlights, including the Mechouar (the Royal Palace’s ramparts and walls), Mohammed V Mausoleum, Hassan Tower, and the scenic Oudaya Kasbah, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It’s also an opportunity to discover Moroccan artisan galleries. Your overnight stay is in Rabat.
Day 6: Rabat to Tangier [251 km]
Continuing our journey, we depart from Rabat for Tangier, following a breathtaking coastal route. Along the way, explore Asilah, a captivating coastal town known for its whitewashed houses, blue walls, and vibrant murals.
Tangier, often referred to as the gateway to Africa from Europe, has a long history as an international melting pot. Delve into the bustling medina, explore the city’s surroundings, and savor the mesmerizing views where the Mediterranean and Atlantic oceans converge. Spend the night in Tangier.
Day 7: Tangier to Chefchaouen [112 km]
From Tangier, we’ll journey to the enchanting mountain village of Chefchaouen, passing through the picturesque valleys of the Rif Mountains. Chefchaouen is famed for its blue-hued houses and is a popular destination, especially in the summer months.
Explore Chefchaouen’s winding lanes and narrow alleys, home to vibrant souks offering unique cuisine and artisanal goods, including woolen items, intricate embroidery, and locally produced goat’s cheese. You can relax in the town square, visit a local farm, or explore nearby parks. Spend the night in Chefchaouen.
Day 8: Chefchaouen to Fes via Volubilis and Meknes [202 km]
After enjoying breakfast at your Riad, embark on a scenic drive through the Moyen Atlas Mountains to reach Volubilis, an open-air museum showcasing Roman ruins. Although not as grand as some Mediterranean Roman sites, Volubilis provides a serene glimpse into Moroccan history.
Our journey continues to Meknes, the fourth of Morocco’s imperial cities. Take a break for lunch and explore the historical medina walls. Visit the impressive Bab el Mansour gate and Moulay Ismail’s mausoleum.
Afterward, we’ll drive directly to Fes, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 9: Guided Tour of Fes
Today, immerse yourself in the wonders of Fes with a guided city tour. Fes boasts the distinction of being the oldest and largest medieval city globally and offers a sensory-rich experience within its medina.
Explore the city’s many attractions, from mosques to palaces, and follow one of the themed tourist circuits to navigate the labyrinthine streets. While you can admire mosques and palaces from the outside, remember that only Muslims can enter the mosques.
Discover the vibrant dye-pits, tanneries, and diverse restaurants in the medina. After a day of exploration, return to your hotel, where you can choose to indulge in an optional Moroccan entertainment and dining experience at a local restaurant.
Day 10: Fes to Merzouga via Ifrane, Azrou, Ziz Gorges, and Erfoud [460 km]
After breakfast, embark on a picturesque journey through the Moyen Atlas Mountains towards Ifrane, passing through cork oak and cedar forests, home to Barbary apes.
Travel through serene mountain passes, offering stunning views of the High Atlas peaks. Lunch will be in Midelt, surrounded by a scrubland and desert plain.
Descending through the Ziz valley, we’ll venture south to Erfoud and Rissani, an oasis boasting over six million palm trees and numerous ksour (fortified villages). As we transition into the desert landscape, we’ll reach the edge of the golden sand dunes near Merzouga.
Relax by the swimming pool at your remarkable Kasbah hotel, and in the evening, enjoy a live desert blues band performance.
Day 11: Merzouga – Nomad Families and Erg Chebbi Exploration
Start your day with a mesmerizing desert sunrise, and then return to the hotel via a camel ride. Freshen up with a shower and savor a delicious breakfast.
Afterward, set out on a 4WD off-road tour, exploring the dunes, the oasis of Merzouga, and the village of Khamlia, home to the Gnawa people who share their spiritual music. Continue your adventure by visiting desert nomads in their traditional tents, offering you a unique glimpse into their way of life.
Nearby, discover the picturesque Merzouga Lake, known for its bird populations. We’ll then return to Rissani, once known as Sijilmassa, a hub for salt caravans from Timbuktu in Mali. Explore the bustling souk, where you can find spices, vegetables, and textiles. After enjoying pizza for lunch in Rissani, return to your Kasbah.
As the sun sets, venture into the Sahara’s pink sands and witness the captivating desert landscape. Enjoy dinner followed by traditional music, and spend the night in a nomad tent.
Day 12: Merzouga to Todra Gorges and Dades Valley [255 km]
Leave the enchanting desert behind as you journey to Todra Gorge, a stunning natural formation resembling Morocco’s very own Grand Canyon. Marvel at the limestone cliffs towering over 1000 feet, and explore the gorge’s depths and heights.
The charm of Todra lies in its changing colors throughout the day. Continue your adventure to the picturesque Dades Valley for a night’s stay.
Day 13: Dades Valley to Marrakech via Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou [326 km]
After breakfast, we’ll traverse charming villages surrounded by Berber women tending to fields against the backdrop of the High Atlas peaks.
Our route then takes us to Ouarzazate, leading off-road to visit Berber nomads in their cave homes and share a tea with them. We’ll journey through the Valley of the Roses, famous for its Rose Festival in May, and pass the kasbahs of Skoura.
In Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” visit the cinematographic museum before crossing the riverbed to explore Ait Benhaddou. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the ruined buildings, climb to the Agadir (grain store) for panoramic views, and engage with local residents over mint tea. In the afternoon, our route takes us north across the High Atlas mountains.
The journey offers breathtaking views as we cross the Tizi-n-Tichka pass (2260m) and descend past Berber villages into the Marrakech plain. Marrakech, a city dating back to the 11th century, offers an unforgettable blend of history and enchantment. The iconic Koutoubia Minaret will dominate your skyline. Enjoy a night’s stay in Marrakech.
Day 14: Leisure Day in Marrakech – Departure
On this final day, seize the opportunity to make the most of your time. Explore the bustling souks of Marrakech and shop for souvenirs for your loved ones. Later, we’ll arrange your transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of our 14-day Morocco journey departing from Marrakech.
1 Review
An unforgettable journey through the Sahara! Our guide, Zayd, was knowledgeable and truly made us feel the magic of the desert under the stars.