The Complete Morocco Experience: A 7-Day Grand Tour from Fes
For the traveler who wants to see it all, our 7-day Morocco tour from Fes is the definitive journey. This grand itinerary is the most comprehensive trip we offer, weaving together the distinct charms of Northern Morocco, the timeless allure of the Imperial Cities, and the epic, life-changing adventure of the Sahara Desert. This is more than a tour; it’s a complete immersion into the diverse tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and histories that make Morocco so enchanting.
This meticulously planned 7-day Morocco itinerary begins by taking you north to the breathtaking blue alleys of Chefchaouen before exploring the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial grandeur of Meknes. From there, you will pivot south to embark on the classic Fes to Marrakech desert tour, crossing the Atlas Mountains, riding camels into the sunset over the Erg Chebbi dunes, and exploring kasbahs straight out of a movie set. The adventure culminates in the vibrant "Red City" of Marrakech, with a guided tour to uncover its secrets. If you have a week to spare, this is the ultimate way to capture the soul of Morocco.
Highlights of Your 7-Day Moroccan Grand Tour
This expansive journey is packed with Morocco's most iconic sights and exclusive experiences. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits on your 7-day Fes tour:
- Explore the magical blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen.
- Step back in time at the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis.
- Discover the imperial history of Meknes, the "Versailles of Morocco".
- Journey through the Atlas Mountains and see Barbary apes.
- Ride a camel to a desert camp for a night under the stars in Erg Chebbi.
- Witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the Sahara dunes.
- Walk through the colossal Todra and Dades Gorges.
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou.
- Enjoy a guided city tour of the vibrant Marrakech medina.
Detailed 7-Day Fes to Marrakech Itinerary
Day 1: Fes → Chefchaouen (The Blue Pearl)
Our grand tour begins with a journey north from Fes, driving through the fertile plains towards the stunning Rif Mountains. The landscape becomes more dramatic as we ascend towards our destination: the enchanting blue city of Chefchaouen. Upon arrival, you'll check into your riad and then have the rest of the afternoon to explore one of Morocco's most picturesque towns. Get lost in its maze-like medina, where every corner reveals a new shade of blue. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, browse the unique local handicrafts, and relax in a café at the main square, Plaza Uta el-Hammam. You'll spend the night in a traditional riad in Chefchaouen.
Day 2: Chefchaouen → Volubilis → Meknes → Fes
After breakfast, you'll have the morning for some final exploration of Chefchaouen before we depart. Our journey today takes us back in time. We first drive to the impressive UNESCO World Heritage site of Volubilis, the best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco. You'll have time to explore the ancient city, with its stunning mosaics, temples, and triumphal arch. Next, we continue to the nearby Imperial City of Meknes. We'll discover its historical highlights, including the grand Bab Mansour gate, the Heri es-Souani granaries, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. In the late afternoon, we complete our loop and drive back to Fes, where you'll spend the night, ready for the southern adventure to begin.
Day 3: Fes → Ifrane → Azrou Forest → Merzouga (Sahara Desert)
An early start from Fes takes us south, climbing into the Middle Atlas Mountains. We'll pass through Ifrane, the "Switzerland of Morocco," and stop in the cedar forests of Azrou to see the wild Barbary macaque monkeys. After lunch in Midelt, we cross the Tizi n'Talrhemt pass and descend along the magnificent Ziz Valley, a vast oasis of palm groves. Arriving at the edge of the Sahara in Merzouga in the late afternoon, you will trade your vehicle for a camel. You’ll embark on a mesmerizing trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes to witness a spectacular sunset. Your night is spent in a traditional Berber desert camp, complete with a delicious Moroccan dinner and local music under a vast canopy of stars.
Day 4: Merzouga → Rissani → Todra Gorge → Dades Valley
Wake up early to witness a magical Sahara sunrise. After breakfast at the camp, you'll ride your camel back to the dune line to meet your driver. Our journey west begins, with a possible stop in Rissani to visit its authentic local souk. We then head towards the stunning Todra Gorge, a 300-meter-high canyon. You'll have ample time to walk along the riverbed and admire the towering cliffs. From there, we travel along the famous "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs," a scenic route lined with ancient fortified villages, finally arriving in the beautiful Dades Valley for the night.
Day 5: Dades Valley → Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou → High Atlas Mountains
After breakfast, we leave the Dades Valley, passing through the Skoura palm oasis towards Ouarzazate, the "Hollywood of Africa." The day's main highlight is an extended visit to the magnificent Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a breathtaking example of southern Moroccan architecture. After exploring this famous film location, we begin our scenic drive towards the High Atlas Mountains. Instead of pushing all the way to Marrakech, we will spend the night in a charming guesthouse in the mountains, allowing for a more relaxed pace.
Day 6: High Atlas → Marrakech (Guided City Tour)
Enjoy a leisurely mountain breakfast before we complete our journey to Marrakech. We'll cross the spectacular Tizi n'Tichka pass, enjoying the stunning panoramic views. We arrive in Marrakech around lunchtime and check you into your riad. In the afternoon, a professional local guide will meet you for a walking tour of the Medina. You’ll discover the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa square with its storytellers, snake charmers, and food stalls. The evening is yours to enjoy the magical atmosphere of Marrakech.
Day 7: Marrakech Exploration & Departure
Your grand 7-day Morocco tour concludes after breakfast at your riad in Marrakech. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have free time for some last-minute souvenir shopping in the souks or to explore more of the city on your own. We will provide your transfer to Marrakech-Menara Airport, filled with a week's worth of unforgettable memories from your Moroccan adventure.
What's Included in Your 7-Day Tour
- Pick-up in Fes & drop-off in Marrakech.
- Private, modern A/C vehicle and professional driver/guide.
- 6 Nights' accommodation in quality riads/hotels.
- Breakfast (6 days) and Dinner (4 days).
- Sunset camel trekking experience in Erg Chebbi.
- Half-day guided walking tour of Marrakech.
- All fuel and transport costs.
What's Not Included
- Lunches and all drinks.
- Dinners in Fes and Marrakech.
- Entrance fees for monuments and museums.
- Personal expenses and gratuities.
Your Grand Tour Questions Answered
Yes, our 7-day Morocco itinerary from Fes is expertly designed to cover the country's most iconic highlights in a comprehensive yet comfortable way. It allows you to experience the northern beauty of Chefchaouen, the imperial history of Meknes and Volubilis, the classic Sahara desert adventure from Merzouga, and the vibrant energy of Marrakech. It's the perfect duration for a grand tour of Morocco's diverse landscapes and cultures.
This tour is far more than just a desert crossing. It incorporates a dedicated 2-day exploration of Northern Morocco, including an overnight stay in the famous 'Blue Pearl,' Chefchaouen, and visits to the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes. This provides a much richer cultural and historical context before you even begin the journey south to the Sahara desert.
This grand tour includes a half-day guided tour of Marrakech on Day 6. A professional local guide will meet you at your riad to show you the main highlights of the Medina, such as the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, the Koutoubia Mosque, and the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square. This ensures you get an expert's insight into the city's rich history.
The pace is designed to be comprehensive but not overly rushed. While there are some long driving days, particularly the journey to and from the Sahara, the 7-day timeframe allows for more relaxed exploration. The itinerary includes overnight stays that break up the longest drives and dedicated time to explore key sites like Chefchaouen and Ait Ben Haddou.