8 Days Tour From Fes To Marrakesh

Overview

8 days tour from Casablanca To Marrakesh, ensuring an immersive experience of the country’s iconic terrains and landmarks. Commence your adventure in Casablanca, paying homage to the classic film that bears its name. From there, venture to Meknes, exploring Roman ruins before settling in the captivating Chefchaouen. Lose yourself in the bustling medinas of Fes, and traverse the Atlas mountains en route to the Sahara. Engage with the nomadic communities, savor meals by the fire accompanied by local performances, and spend a night in a traditional Bedouin tent. Conclude your remarkable journey amidst the vibrant energy of Marrakesh.

8 Days Tour From Fes To Marrakesh Highlights

Day 1: Casablanca and Meknes

Explore Casablanca.
Visit Meknes.

Day 2: Volubilis and Chefchaouen

Explore the Roman ruins at Volubilis.
Visit the “Blue City” of Chefchaouen.

Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fes

Travel from Chefchaouen to Fes.

Day 4: Fes Sightseeing

Explore the Imperial City and Medieval Medina in Fes.

Day 5: Middle Atlas to the Desert: Erfoud, Merzouga & the Sahara

Travel over the Middle Atlas Mountains.
Visit Erfoud, Merzouga, and the Sahara Desert.

Day 6: Erg Chebbi, Dades Valley, and Ouarzazate

Explore Erg Chebbi.
Journey through Dades Valley to Ouarzazate.

Day 7: Aït Benhaddou to Marrakesh

Visit Aït Benhaddou.
Arrive in Marrakesh.

Day 8: Marrakesh Departure

Explore Marrakesh.
Depart from Marrakesh.

Day 1: Casablanca and Meknes

Casablanca stands as the contemporary commercial hub of Morocco, offering fewer tourist attractions compared to the imperial cities of Fes and Marrakesh. A concise morning visit may suffice to explore the city’s highlights before venturing further afield.

The Hassan II Mosque, nestled in a picturesque seaside location, is the standout destination in Casablanca. Inaugurated in 1993, its 656-foot (200 m) minaret claims the title of the tallest structure in Morocco and the world’s tallest minaret. The mosque’s courtyard can host 80,000 worshipers, with an additional 25,000 accommodated inside. Beyond its impressive exterior and surroundings, the mosque’s opulent interior boasts wood, marble, carved stone, and gilded ceilings. What adds to its uniqueness is that it is among the few mosques in the country open to non-Muslim visitors. Guided one-hour tours are available in the mornings from 9 am to 2 pm, incorporating a visit to the Hammam in the basement.

Meknes, a prosperous city, serves as a delightful introduction to your time in Fes. Its medina is smaller, less bustling, and the shopkeepers are less assertive. While many travelers pass through, those with additional time can discover several points of interest in this historical Imperial city.

In the Ville Impériale (Imperial City) area, explore gardens, palaces, the remarkable gate of Bab al-Mansour, The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Royal Stables. The medina, smaller and more navigable than those in Fes and Marrakesh, offers a pleasant experience. In addition to the scattered souks, consider visiting the 14th-century Medersa Bou Inania, providing picturesque views from the roof, and the Dar Jamaï, a beautiful palace constructed in 1882.

Day 2: Roman Ruins at Volubilis, the "Blue City" of Chefchaouen

Following breakfast, embark on a 30-minute drive to the ancient Roman settlement of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for Morocco’s best-preserved Roman ruins. This town, once situated on the fringes of the Roman Empire, flourished for 200 years before the Romans redirected their focus. Volubilis played a pivotal role in supplying wheat and exotic animals, such as lions, bears, and elephants, for feasts, celebrations, and sacrifices in the empire’s capital.

A visit to Volubilis provides a refreshing break from the vibrant energy of Meknes. Explore the expansive complex, meandering through substantial merchant homes, temples, and vibrant mosaics in their original locations. Post-exploration, embark on a scenic 3-hour drive to Chefchaouen, observing the transformation from flat plains to the mountainous terrain of the Rif mountains. Pass through charming small towns along the way.

Chefchaouen, locally known as “chaoeun” or the “Blue City,” derives its name from the two peaks overlooking the town. Famed for its maze of picturesque blue homes and streets, Chefchaouen offers a distinct contrast to the bustling medinas of Fes and Marrakesh, boasting a more relaxed atmosphere and exceptionally friendly locals.

Navigate the compact medina perched on the northern hillside, meandering through narrow alleys, being mindful of the local residents in their beautiful homes. Head to Plaza Outa el-Hammam, the main square surrounded by restaurants and cafes, providing a more affordable and welcoming experience compared to Fes or Marrakesh.

Explore the Grand Mosque, built in 1560, and the Kasbah, an ancient fortification housing a garden, museum, and old prison cells. Climb to the roof of the Kasbah for a breathtaking view of the town. For an even more panoramic perspective, ascend the city walls, passing through gates towards Hotel Atlas, where a vast panorama of the Blue City awaits. Alternatively, take switchback trails leading to the mountainside for a more challenging hike (seek guidance if needed).

As the day concludes, follow the streets east, crossing the Ras el Ma spring, and indulge in an afternoon mint tea at a café. Ascend the hill for 20-30 minutes until reaching the white Spanish Mosque, offering a stunning sunset view of the town against the mountain backdrop.

For enthusiasts of bigger hikes, explore local trailheads just a short drive away. Allocate at least half a day for either hiking along the river to the Cascades d’Akchou waterfall or heading to the rock arch known as the “Bridge of God.” With a full day, you can even attempt both routes.

Total driving time: 3.5-4 hours

Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fes

Commence your day early, and relish in the tranquility of the morning streets, capturing unobstructed photos during this peaceful hour. However, be mindful that if you plan on some last-minute shopping, numerous stores may not open until around 10 am.

Embark on a journey southward, approximately 3.5 hours to Fes, renowned for its expansive and intricate old medina cascading down the hill. Prior to immersing yourself in the bustling labyrinth, pause above the town at the Merenid tombs’ ruins, offering a picturesque panorama of the old city. Below on the hillside, you might catch a glimpse of leather drying in the sun. Following lunch, navigate the medina’s intricate streets, notably larger and more complex than those of Chefchaouen.

Unwind in the evening at a charming riad, where you can also opt for a delightful dinner.

Total driving time: 3.5-4 hours

Day 4: Fes: Exploring the Imperial City & Medieval Medina

Explore Fes, the oldest Imperial City in Morocco, boasting a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the most complete medina in the Arab world. Steeped in history and culture, Fes allows for various exploration options. Spend a couple of days wandering the medina, visiting Madrasas, and venturing beyond the walls. For a shorter trip, a full day exploring the medina and select highlights may suffice, enhanced by a half-day guided tour.

Fes el Bali (“Old Fes”) is the starting point, founded in the 8th century and shaped by refugees from Cordoba and Kairouan. The charming medina with narrow, winding streets houses iconic souks offering a variety of goods. Don’t miss the Tanneries Chouara, where traditional leather techniques unfold, and explore the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque’s exterior, with glimpses of the beautifully decorated interior. Visit old Madrasas like Medersa Bou Inania and Al Attarine, showcasing intricate tilework, cedar woodwork, and carved stucco patterns.

Pass through the famed Bab Boujeloud gate into Talâa Kebira, a bustling thoroughfare filled with shops. Enjoy retail therapy or visit the Musée Batha for Moroccan arts. Venture southwest to Fes el Jedid (“New Fes”), constructed in the 13th century, featuring the Royal Palace and Mellah. Explore a ceramics and tilework collective beyond the medina, witnessing the entire process.

Regardless of your Fes exploration, catch the sunset from the Merenid Tombs or Borj Sud for panoramic views of this timeless city rooted in history.

Day 5: Over the Middle Atlas to the Desert: Erfoud, Merzouga & the Sahara

Embark on an early adventure today, covering diverse landscapes. Traverse the Middle Atlas, passing through a cedar forest, exploring towns, and reaching Merzouga near the iconic Sahara Desert dunes. Experience a camel ride, relish a traditional dinner, and spend the night in a Bedouin tent. Your morning journey unveils Azrou, the Col du Zad Pass with Barbary macaque monkeys, and the apple city of Midelt by the River Moulouya.

Continue through the Tizi-n-Talremt pass, discovering the Ziz Valley’s hidden oases and ksars. Catch glimpses of the ever-shifting Saharan sand dunes before reaching Erfoud, known for its date festival and fossils. Visit an artisan collective, learn about fossils, and witness the mesmerizing Erg Chebbi sand dunes. Take a camel ride near Merzouga, enjoying the sunset on a sand dune. Return to camp for dinner, Berber music, and a night under the expansive desert sky in a traditional Bedouin tent. Opt for a comfortable hotel/auberge in Merzouga if preferred.

Total driving time: Approximately 7-7.5 hours

Day 6: Erg Shibi, Dades Valley, and Ouarzazate

Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara’s sand dunes. After breakfast, delve into more Sahara adventures: try sandboarding, explore Erg Shibi, join a quad ATV tour, or unwind by a pool. Visit Khamleya, a traditional Saharan village with roots in Mali. Immerse yourself in local music, drumming, and dancing, followed by a leisurely village stroll. Departing Merzouga, stop in Rissani for market vibes and a unique “donkey parking lot.” Continue through the desert to Tinerhir, admiring the green river oasis with palm trees and the Todra Gorge’s towering red-stained limestones. Explore the gorge or cool off in the shallow river.

Travel along the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, witnessing traditional farms and Nomads herding animals. Pass through the Dades Valley, known for rose cultivation and the annual Rose Festival. Visit a rose collective to observe the distillation process. Make a stop in Ouarzazate, a renowned filming location, with an option to tour movie studios and the Musée du Cinema, providing insights into local film history. Recognize landscapes featured in Hollywood productions like Lawrence of Arabia and Game of Thrones.

Total driving time: 5-5.5 hours

Day 7: Aït Benhaddou to Marrakesh

Begin your day exploring Aït Benhaddou, the renowned UNESCO World Heritage site and Morocco’s most famous Kasbah, dating back to the 11th century. As you traverse the High Atlas, catch sight of Mount Toubkal, standing at 13,671 feet (4,167 m). Near the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass’s summit, relish panoramic views of the mountain range and the winding road ahead.

Pause in Taddert after the pass to visit an oil cooperative, gaining insights into olive processing. Sample various products before continuing your descent, experiencing a climate and landscape shift with carved river valleys. Transition from the mountain and desert tranquility to the lively ambiance of Marrakesh.

Check into your hotel, unwind, and venture out in the early evening to witness Jemaa el Fna, the vibrant main square, teeming with musicians, performers, snake charmers, games, and food stalls. Navigate the bustling stalls or savor the spectacle from a café, enjoying a delightful meal.

Total driving time: 4 hours

Day 8: Marrakesh and Departure

your final day in Marrakesh, exploring the city’s rich cultural tapestry and vibrant attractions. Visit iconic landmarks like the Koutoubia Mosque and Gardens, marveling at its 12th-century foundations and towering minaret. Immerse yourself in the labyrinthine souks, including Souk el Attarin, Souk Chouari, and Souk Smata, to discover an array of spices, woodwork, and traditional Moroccan slippers.

Delve into the architectural wonders of the Ben Youssef Madrasa, a 16th-century Quranic school adorned with intricate zellij tilework. Admire the craftsmanship at the dyers’ souk, Souk des Teinturiers, and witness traditional cloth and yarn dyeing techniques. Explore the 16th-century Al-Qarawiyyin University and Mosque, open to Muslims, with glimpses of its decorated interior available to non-Muslims.

For a culinary adventure, join a cooking class to master the art of preparing a typical Moroccan meal. Conclude your day at the Jemaa el-Fna Square, Africa’s busiest square, alive with musicians, performers, and enticing food stalls. Opt for a relaxing evening at one of the surrounding cafés, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

As your unforgettable journey draws to a close, bid farewell to Marrakesh and head to the airport for your departure flight. Depart with cherished memories of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, historical wonders, and warm hospitality. Safe travels!

Includes:

Excludes: