Ultimate Morocco Travel Itinerary: Discover the Magic of the Sahara and Beyond

Morocco is a land of contrasts—where bustling souks are just a stone’s throw from serene mountains and vast deserts. If you’re planning a trip to this fascinating country, you’ll need a well-crafted itinerary to fully appreciate the diverse experiences it offers. In this article, I’ll share my personal travel experiences in Morocco, along with a comprehensive travel itinerary that spans 10 unforgettable days, detailed travel tips, destination highlights, and even a few pros and cons to help you plan your perfect getaway!

Table of Contents

• Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca
• Day 2: Rabat and the Blue City, Chefchaouen
• Day 3: Exploring Chefchaouen
• Day 4: Fes – The Cultural Capital
• Day 5: Meknes and Volubilis
• Day 6: Merzouga and the Sahara Desert
• Day 7: Desert Adventures
• Day 8: Marrakech – The Red City
• Day 9: Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains
• Day 10: Departure
• Travel Tips for Morocco
• Destination Highlights
• Pros and Cons of Traveling in Morocco
• FAQs

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Welcome to Morocco! Your journey begins in Casablanca, the country’s largest city and a vibrant hub of modern life. After arriving at Mohammed V International Airport, I hopped into a taxi and headed to my hotel.

Things to Do in Casablanca

• Visit the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco.
• Stroll along the Corniche and enjoy the Atlantic views.
• Explore the Royal Palace and the Old Medina.

Evening in Casablanca

In the evening, I dined at a local restaurant where the delicious tagine blew me away. Don’t miss trying the seafood tagine—it’s a local specialty!

Day 2: Rabat and the Blue City, Chefchaouen

After breakfast, I set off to Rabat, Morocco’s capital. It took about 1.5 hours by car. Rabat is home to stunning architecture and rich history.

Exploring Rabat

• Visit the Kasbah of the Udayas.
• Explore the Royal Palace and the Hassan Tower.
• Check out the Chellah Necropolis.

In the afternoon, I continued my journey to Chefchaouen, known for its blue-washed buildings. The drive offered breathtaking views of the Rif Mountains.

Day 3: Exploring Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is a photographer’s paradise! Early in the morning, I wandered through the charming streets, soaking in the local culture.

Must-visit Spots in Chefchaouen

• The Plaza Uta el-Hammam for local cuisine.
• The Kasbah Museum.
• Hiking up to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views.

Day 4: Fes – The Cultural Capital

Next, I traveled to Fes, known for its medieval architecture and vibrant souks. The journey took around 4 hours by car.

Discovering Fes

• Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa.
• Explore the Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Check out the tanneries and learn about traditional leather-making.

Day 5: Meknes and Volubilis

On this day, I took a day trip to Meknes and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Meknes is a UNESCO site famous for its well-preserved gates and grand palaces.

Highlights of Meknes and Volubilis

• Visit Bab Mansour, a magnificent gate.
• Explore the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.
• Wander through the ruins of Volubilis and admire the mosaics.

Day 6: Merzouga and the Sahara Desert

Today, I took the scenic drive towards Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. The landscape transformed dramatically as we approached the dunes.

Activities in Merzouga

• Ride camels into the desert as the sun sets.
• Spend a night in a Berber camp under the stars.

Day 7: Desert Adventures

Waking up in the desert was surreal. I suggest an early morning hike to witness the sunrise over the dunes. My guide took me on a thrilling 4×4 tour of the area, where we visited nearby oases and the nomadic Berber lifestyle.

Day 8: Marrakech – The Red City

Leaving the desert behind, I headed to Marrakech—a vibrant city bursting with colors, sounds, and flavors. The drive took about 6 hours, but it was well worth it!

Top Attractions in Marrakech

• Jemaa el-Fnaa Square.
• Visit the stunning Bahia Palace.
• Explore the Majorelle Garden.

Day 9: Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains

On my second day in Marrakech, I opted for a day trip to the Atlas Mountains. The contrast between the city and the mountains was breathtaking!

Activities in the Atlas Mountains

• Trek to the waterfalls of Ourika Valley.
• Visit traditional Berber villages.
• Taste local cuisine at a mountain restaurant.

Day 10: Departure

As my amazing journey came to an end, I reflected on the rich experiences that Morocco offered—from the bustling markets to the serene dunes. After a final breakfast in Marrakech, I packed my bags and prepared for my flight home.

Travel Tips for Morocco

• Dress modestly: Respect local customs and dress appropriately.
• Learn basic Arabic phrases: It helps in communicating with locals.
• Stay hydrated: Especially in the desert.
• Bargain in markets: It’s part of the experience!

Destination Highlights

Comparison Table of Must-See Cities

Pros and Cons of Traveling in Morocco

Pros

• Rich cultural experiences and history.
• Diverse landscapes from mountains to deserts.
• Delicious and varied cuisine.

Cons

• Can be crowded in tourist hotspots.
• Intense bargaining in markets may be exhausting.
• Limited public transportation options in rural areas.

FAQs About Traveling in Morocco

What is the best time to visit Morocco?

The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are moderate.

Is it safe to travel in Morocco?

Yes, Morocco is generally safe for tourists. Just exercise common sense as you would in any other country.

Do I need a visa to visit Morocco?

Many countries, including the US and EU member states, do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

What currency is used in Morocco?

The currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but cash is preferred at markets.

How do I get around Morocco?

Consider hiring a car, taking buses, or using trains between major cities for ease of travel.