8 Days Morocco Tour itinerary from Marrakech

The 8 days Morocco tour begins with an early pick-up from Marrakech, either from the airport or your accommodation. You will start your journey by crossing the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka Pass, which winds through the majestic High Atlas Mountains.

Along the way, there will be several stops for panoramic views of the serpentine road and traditional Amazigh (Berber)villages nestled along the mountainsides—ideal for photography and cultural immersion. Your next destination is the Telouet Kasbah, a lesser-known but historically rich fortress.

Continuing the adventure, you’ll visit the iconic Aït Benhaddou, a fortified village and UNESCO World Heritage Sitesince 1987. Built during the Almoravid dynasty in the 11th century, this kasbah has served as the backdrop for numerous films and TV shows, including Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, The Living Daylights, Son of God, and Game of Thrones.

Afterward, the journey continues to Ouarzazate, often referred to as “The Gateway to the Desert.” The name originates from the Tamazight language, meaning “without noise” or “without confusion.” Most of the locals are Tamazight (Berber) speakers known for their exceptional hospitality and the construction of many renowned kasbahs in the region.

You will spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Ouarzazate, resting and preparing for the next leg of your Moroccan desert adventure.

On the second day of your 8 days Morocco tour, after enjoying a delicious Moroccan breakfast, you will explore the top attractions of Ouarzazate, a city known as the Hollywood of Africa.

First, visit the world-renowned Atlas Studios, where numerous international films were shot, including Kingdom of Heaven (2005), Kundun (1997), Salmon Fishing in the Yemen (2011), and Hanna (2011). Next, explore the historical Kasbah of Taourirt, a 17th-century fortress built by the Amazigh (Berber) people. Constructed using traditional materials like mud bricks and rammed earth, the kasbah is an architectural masterpiece and even featured in the film Prince of Persia.

From there, your journey continues east to the iconic Kasbah Amridil, a fortified village originally established in the 17th century. This kasbah also made a notable appearance in the classic film Lawrence of Arabia (1962).

The next stop is Kalaat M’Gouna, a small town famous for its annual Festival of Roses, celebrated every first week of May. This week-long event attracts over 300,000 visitors from around the world and offers the chance to explore local handicrafts and agricultural products, including rose water, essential oils, perfumes, and cosmetics.

Finally, you head toward Boumalne Dades, where you’ll spend the night in a charming hotel. On the way, a stop will be made at the fascinating rock formation known as “Monkey Fingers”, located high in the Dades Mountains. This natural wonder provides a breathtaking panoramic view and is perfect for photography lovers.

Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel in Boumalne Dades.

Day 3: Boumalne Dades – Todgha Gorges – Melaab – Sahara Desert (Erg Chebbi Camel Trek)

After enjoying a traditional and hearty Moroccan breakfast, your adventure continues toward one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in southern Morocco: the Todgha Gorges. These dramatic limestone canyons rise up to 400 meters (1,312 ft) and are a paradise for rock climbers and nature lovers alike. The Todgha River has carved these cliff-sided gorges over centuries, creating a narrow passage surrounded by towering walls. A stop will be made to walk around, take photos, and soak in the raw beauty of this geological marvel.

Your journey then continues through the palm-lined oases of Melaab and Touroug, offering a glimpse into the rural life of southern Morocco. Afterward, you’ll have free time for lunch in a local restaurant along the route.

In the afternoon, the real desert experience begins. You’ll drive toward the gateway of the majestic Sahara Desert, specifically to the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga. Here, your camel guide and caravan of camels will be waiting for you.

You will begin your camel trekking journey, riding into the golden dunes and feeling the silence of the vast desert. A stop will be made at a high dune to witness one of the tour’s most magical moments: the sunset over the Sahara—a breathtaking panoramic view perfect for photos and reflection.

As night falls, you’ll continue your camel ride to your traditional desert camp, where a warm welcome awaits. You’ll be served fresh mint tea and cold water, and your hosts will show you to your private tent equipped with all the comforts needed.

Later in the evening, enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner prepared on-site. Afterward, gather around the campfire under the star-filled sky, where local nomads will perform their traditional Berber music with drums and songs about desert life and nomadism.

Overnight stay in the desert camp – a true highlight of the Morocco desert tour.

Waking up early is highly recommended to witness a magnificent sunrise over the Sahara Desert, an unforgettable sight as the golden light gradually illuminates the vast dunes of Erg Chebbi. After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the desert camp, you’ll ride camels back to Merzouga, where your driver will be waiting to begin an exciting day of desert exploration.

Your off-road Sahara Desert excursion begins with a visit to a nomadic Amazigh (Berber) family, known for their legendary hospitality. These humble desert dwellers will welcome you into their handmade woven tent, offering a glimpse into their simple, traditional lifestyle. You’ll be greeted with a warm smile and a glass of Berber tea—often called “Berber whiskey”—as they share stories about their daily life in the desert.

Next, you’ll head to the Mifis mines, historically famous for extracting kohl, a natural eyeliner used since ancient times by both men and women for cosmetic and protective purposes. Kohl was believed to shield the eyes from sunlight and desert dust, making it essential in traditional desert cultures.

Your journey continues to the culturally rich Khamlia village, situated on the edge of the sand dunes. Most of its residents are descendants of people from Sub-Saharan Africa—particularly Sudan, Mali, and Niger. Here, you’ll be treated to a live performance of Gnawa music, a hypnotic blend of African rhythms, spiritual chants, and traditional dancing—a unique cultural highlight of the region.

Free time will be provided for lunch in a local restaurant, where you’ll taste the famous Berber pizza, a delicious meat-filled bread baked in a traditional clay oven.

In the afternoon, visit the Hassi Labied Oasis, a green strip of fertile land lined with date palms and small irrigation canals, showcasing traditional Saharan agriculture.

To conclude this enriching desert day, drive a few kilometers to visit the wild flamingo lake, a seasonal wetland where migratory birds, including flamingos, can often be seen depending on the time of year. Finally, you’ll be transferred to your desert hotel for rest and overnight stay.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your desert hotel, your fifth day begins with a scenic drive toward Rissani, the nearest town to Merzouga and once the ancient capital of the Tafilalt region. Known for its historical significance and vibrant atmosphere, Rissani remains an important commercial hub, especially on market days—Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday—when its traditional souk becomes a bustling center of trade and culture. Enjoy a stroll through the market, where locals sell everything from spices to handicrafts.

Next, continue to Erfoud, a town famous for its fossil-rich terrain. Built atop an ancient seabed, Erfoud has become a center for the fossil marble industry, where you can see fascinating discoveries such as trilobites, ammonites, and even dinosaur fossils.

From there, drive along the beautiful Ziz Valley, following the course of the Ziz River. A stop will be made to admire a panoramic view over a vast expanse of thousands of date palm trees. Besides palms, the fertile valley also produces fruit trees, grains, cumin, and vegetables.

The journey continues over the Tizi n’Talghomt Pass, leading you to Midelt—a town known as the apple capital of Morocco. Here, you’ll enjoy free time for lunch in a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the majestic Cedar Forest near Azrou, home to the famous Barbary macaques (wild monkeys). Take a break to feed them and capture memorable photos amid the towering cedar trees.

Before reaching your final destination, stop in the picturesque town of Ifrane, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its alpine-style architecture, clean streets, and cool climate. It has even been ranked as the second cleanest city in the world by MBC Times. Ifrane is also home to the famous stone lion statue, a favorite photo spot for visitors.

Finally, arrive in the historic imperial city of Fes, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation for a well-deserved rest.

After breakfast at your accommodation, your local driver will pick you up for a full-day tour of Fes—the second-largest city in Morocco and one of the country’s most significant imperial cities, alongside Marrakech, Meknes, and Rabat.

This guided sightseeing tour will be led by a professional local guide who will take you deep into the historic heart of the city, unveiling its rich heritage and vibrant culture.

The tour begins with a visit to the majestic Royal Palace Gate, known for its massive brass doors, intricate mosaics, and finely carved cedar wood. Though the interior is not open to the public, the exterior is an architectural marvel worthy of photos.

Next, enter the old medina through the iconic Bab Boujloud—also known as the Blue Gate. This ornate entryway, built in the 12th century, is a symbol of Fes and a historical landmark that opens the path to one of the oldest continuously inhabited medinas in the world.

Inside the medina, you will explore key cultural and historical sites, including:

• The University of Al Quaraouiyine – founded in 859 AD, recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records as the oldest existing and continually operating university in the world.

• The Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque – a spiritual and educational center.

• The beautifully carved Najjarine Fountain – located next to a historic funduq (inn).

• The Tanneries of Fes – especially the famous Chouara Tannery, where traditional leather-making methods are still used.

• The Bou Inania Madrasa – a stunning theological college built in the 14th century, showcasing intricate zellige tilework and cedar carvings.

To conclude your tour, your guide will lead you to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the entire old medina—a fantastic opportunity for breathtaking photographs and reflection on the city’s historical depth.

Finally, you will be transferred back to your accommodation in Fes for a restful evening.

After breakfast, we begin the day with a scenic drive to the historic city of Meknes, founded in the 11th century by the Almoravids. As one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, Meknes is rich in architectural heritage and imperial history.

Your guided visit in Meknes includes several notable landmarks:

• Bab Mansour – one of the most impressive gates in Morocco, known for its stunning mosaic tilework and grand arches.

• The Sahrij Souani – a massive water reservoir used to irrigate royal gardens and supply the city.

• The Royal Stables and Granaries – built under Sultan Moulay Ismail to shelter thousands of horses and store provisions for the city.

• The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail – one of the few religious sites in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors.

After exploring these historic sites, you’ll enjoy free time for lunch in one of Meknes’ local restaurants.

Next, we drive about 30 kilometers to reach the remarkable archaeological site of Volubilis. These Amazigh-Roman ruins are among the best-preserved Roman sites in North Africa. The name “Volubilis” comes from the Amazigh word “Walili”, meaning oleander, a plant that grows abundantly in the area.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Volubilis features:

• Expansive Roman pillars and arches

• Lavishly detailed mosaics depicting Roman mythology

• Remains of temples, villas, baths, and administrative buildings

After a peaceful stroll through the ancient ruins, we continue our journey north toward the enchanting Chefchaouen, nestled in the heart of the Rif Mountains.

Known as the Blue Pearl of Morocco, Chefchaouen is famous for its striking blue-washed walls and alleys, creating a magical, photogenic atmosphere unlike any other city in the country. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to wander through its peaceful streets or relax in a local café.

Overnight stay in a charming hotel in ChefcHaouen

After breakfast, you can make a stroll in the medina, taking some pictures and enjoying the stunning landscapes. Then, travel over the Rif Mountains to Tangier and transfer to the airport. End of the 8 Days Morocco Tour 2026 itinerary.