Morocco is a country of dazzling diversity, where imperial cities, vast deserts, rugged mountains, and charming coastlines vie for your attention. Planning the perfect Morocco trip itinerary can feel overwhelming. How many days do you need? What are the must-see destinations? This guide provides sample itineraries for different trip lengths—from a quick 5 days in Morocco to an immersive two-week adventure—to help you craft your ideal Morocco vacation package.
The 5-Day Morocco Itinerary: A Taste of the Magic
Perfect for a short break, this fast-paced itinerary focuses on Marrakech and its stunning surroundings. It gives you a taste of the city's energy and a glimpse into the natural beauty that lies just beyond.
Highlights of a 5-Day Trip:
- Days 1-2: Marrakech. Dive into the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square, get lost in the souks, visit the Bahia Palace and Jardin Majorelle, and relax in a traditional riad.
- Day 3: Atlas Mountains Day Trip. Escape the city for a day of breathtaking scenery. Visit Berber villages in the Ourika Valley or Imlil, enjoy a hike, and have lunch with a view of the snow-capped peaks.
- Day 4: Agafay Desert. Experience the desert without the long drive to the Sahara. Enjoy a sunset camel ride, a traditional dinner under the stars, and an overnight stay in a desert camp in the rocky Agafay Desert, just outside Marrakech.
- Day 5: Departure. Enjoy a final Moroccan breakfast before heading to the airport.
The 7-Day (One Week) Morocco Itinerary: The Classic Loop
One week in Morocco is the ideal amount of time for a classic tour that covers the highlights of the imperial cities and the Sahara Desert. This is one of the most popular Morocco tour packages for first-time visitors.
Highlights of a 7-Day Trip:
- Day 1: Arrive in Marrakech. Settle into your riad and get a first taste of Jemaa el-Fnaa at night.
- Day 2: Marrakech Exploration. A full day dedicated to the wonders of the Red City.
- Day 3: Marrakech to Dades Valley. Cross the High Atlas Mountains, visit the UNESCO site of Ait Ben Haddou, and travel through Ouarzazate and the Valley of Roses to the stunning Dades Gorge.
- Day 4: Dades Valley to Merzouga. See the Todra Gorge before continuing to the Sahara. Arrive in Merzouga for your sunset camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes and a night in a desert camp.
- Day 5: Merzouga to Fes. Wake for a desert sunrise, then begin the long but scenic journey north towards Fes, passing through the Ziz Valley and cedar forests.
- Day 6: Exploring Fes. Discover the ancient Fes el-Bali medina, see the famous tanneries, and admire the architectural beauty of the spiritual capital.
- Day 7: Departure from Fes. Enjoy a final Moroccan breakfast before your flight home.
The 10-Day Morocco Itinerary: The Grand Tour
With 10 days in Morocco, you can expand on the classic loop to include more imperial cities and the magical blue city of Chefchaouen. This itinerary offers a deeper dive into the country's diverse culture and landscapes.
Highlights of a 10-Day Trip:
- Days 1-2: Start in Casablanca (visit Hassan II Mosque) and travel to Rabat (the capital).
- Day 3: Journey to the blue city of Chefchaouen for an overnight stay.
- Day 4: Explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis on your way to Fes.
- Day 5: Full day exploring the wonders of Fes.
- Days 6-7: The classic 2-day journey to the Sahara Desert in Merzouga, including a camel trek and desert camp experience.
- Day 8: Travel from the desert to Marrakech via the Todra Gorge and Dades Valley.
- Day 9: Full day to explore the vibrant city of Marrakech.
- Day 10: Departure from Marrakech.
"The 10-day tour was perfectly planned. We felt like we saw everything! From the blue streets of Chefchaouen to the incredible night in the Sahara and the buzz of Marrakech, it was the trip of a lifetime. Having a private driver made it so easy and stress-free."
The 14-Day (Two Weeks) Morocco Itinerary: The Ultimate Discovery
A 14-day Morocco itinerary allows you to experience everything this incredible country has to offer, from the imperial north to the desert south and the relaxing Atlantic coast, all at a more comfortable pace.
Highlights of a 14-Day Trip:
Follow the 10-day itinerary, and add the following:
- Day 10: An extra day in Marrakech for a cooking class, a relaxing hammam experience, or exploring the modern Gueliz neighborhood.
- Day 11: Travel from Marrakech to the coastal town of Essaouira.
- Day 12: Full day in Essaouira to explore the ramparts, art galleries, and enjoy fresh seafood at the port.
- Day 13: Travel back to Marrakech or Casablanca along the coast.
- Day 14: Departure from Marrakech or Casablanca.
FAQ: Planning Your Morocco Itinerary
What is the best way to travel between cities in Morocco?
For maximum flexibility and comfort, hiring a private driver or joining a guided tour is the best option. This allows you to stop at scenic spots along the way. For budget travelers, the train network is excellent between major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech. High-quality buses (CTM and Supratours) connect the rest of the country.
How many days do you really need for a good Morocco trip?
While you can get a taste in 5 days, we find that a 7 to 10-day itinerary offers the best balance. It allows you to experience the imperial cities and the Sahara desert without feeling too rushed, which is key to enjoying the Moroccan pace of life.