12-Day Grand Morocco Tour from Fes

Overview

This 12-day grand tour is the ultimate Moroccan odyssey, meticulously designed for those who wish to experience the full spectrum of the country's wonders. Starting and ending in the spiritual capital of Fes, this journey takes you through ancient imperial cities, the enchanting blue streets of Chefchaouen, the modern metropolis of Casablanca, the vibrant energy of Marrakech, the breathtaking heights of the Atlas Mountains, and the profound silence of the Sahara Desert. This is Morocco in all its magnificent diversity.

Highlights

• Explore the medieval medinas of Fes and Marrakech, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Discover the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes.
• Get lost in the magical blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen.
• Visit Morocco's capital, Rabat, and the economic hub of Casablanca.
• Cross the spectacular High Atlas Mountains and visit Aït Benhaddou kasbah.
• Experience a sunset camel trek and a night in a luxury desert camp in Merzouga.
• Journey through the dramatic Todra and Dades Gorges.
• Travel through the scenic Ziz Valley and Middle Atlas cedar forests.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Fes

Upon your arrival at Fes-Saïss Airport, your driver will greet you and transfer you to your traditional riad in the heart of the medina. You'll have the rest of the day to relax and acclimate to the oldest of Morocco's imperial cities.

Day 2: Fes Guided Tour

After breakfast, you will meet your local guide for a full-day tour of Fes. You'll explore the labyrinthine streets of Fes el-Bali (the old medina), visit the famous tanneries, the Al-Attarine Madrasa, the Nejjarine Fountain, and the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University. The day also includes a visit to the Royal Palace gates and a panoramic view of the entire city.

Day 3: Fes → Meknes → Volubilis → Chefchaouen

We depart Fes for the Rif Mountains, first stopping at the imperial city of Meknes to see the grand Bab Mansour gate. Next, we explore the nearby ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO site. After lunch, we continue our scenic drive to the famous "Blue City" of Chefchaouen, where you'll spend the night.

Day 4: Chefchaouen Exploration

Enjoy a full day to explore the enchanting blue-washed town of Chefchaouen. Wander through its narrow, colorful streets, shop for local handicrafts, and relax in the main square, Plaza Uta el-Hammam. You can also take a short hike to the Spanish Mosque on the hill for a beautiful panoramic view of the city at sunset.

Day 5: Chefchaouen → Rabat → Marrakech

Today we journey south to Marrakech. We'll stop in Rabat, the capital of Morocco, to visit key sites like the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the historic Kasbah of the Udayas. After our visit, we continue on to the vibrant "Red City" of Marrakech, where you'll check into your riad.

Day 6: Marrakech Guided Tour

Discover the magic of Marrakech with a full-day guided tour. You'll visit the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the Koutoubia Mosque (from the outside). The afternoon will be spent exploring the bustling souks and the world-famous Djemaa el-Fna square, with its storytellers, musicians, and snake charmers.

Day 7: High Atlas Mountains Day Trip

Escape the city for a day and journey into the majestic High Atlas Mountains. We'll drive through stunning valleys, visit traditional Berber villages, and learn about the local way of life. Enjoy lunch with a breathtaking mountain view before returning to Marrakech in the evening.

Day 8: Marrakech → Tizi n'Tichka → Aït Benhaddou → Dades Valley

We leave Marrakech and begin our journey to the desert, crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi n'Tichka pass. We'll visit the iconic Aït Benhaddou kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continuing along the "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs," we'll pass through Ouarzazate and the Valley of Roses, arriving in the Dades Valley for the night.

Day 9: Dades Valley → Todra Gorges → Merzouga

After breakfast, we'll visit the impressive Todra Gorges for a walk through the canyon. We then travel through several Berber villages to reach Merzouga. In the afternoon, you'll embark on a camel trek into the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes to watch the sunset before arriving at your luxury desert camp.

Day 10: Merzouga Desert Exploration

Spend a full day exploring the Sahara. You can take an optional 4x4 tour to visit nomadic families, see the Gnawa musicians in Khamlia village, and discover the desert's unique landscapes. In the evening, enjoy another delicious dinner and a peaceful night at your camp or a hotel at the dune line.

Day 11: Merzouga → Ziz Valley → Midelt → Fes

After a desert sunrise and breakfast, we begin the long but beautiful drive back to Fes. We will travel through the vast Ziz Valley palm groves, cross the Middle Atlas mountains, and stop in the cedar forests near Azrou to see the Barbary macaque monkeys. We arrive back in Fes in the evening and transfer you to your hotel.

Day 12: Departure from Fes

After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, your driver will transfer you to Fes-Saïss Airport for your departure, concluding your grand Moroccan adventure.

What's Included

• Private, air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle or minivan for the entire tour
• Experienced English/French/Spanish-speaking driver/guide
• Airport transfers
• 11 nights' accommodation in quality hotels/riads
• 1 night in a luxury desert camp in Merzouga
• Sunset camel ride
• Dinners and breakfasts as specified in the itinerary
• Guided tours in Fes and Marrakech

What's Not Included

• Flights
• Lunches and drinks
• Entrance fees for monuments
• Personal expenses and tips

Why Choose This Tour?

• Comprehensive Itinerary: This tour is one of our most complete, covering all major regions and highlights of Morocco in a single, seamless journey.
• Variety of Landscapes: Experience the full spectrum of Moroccan scenery, from mountains and coasts to cities and the Sahara.
• Cultural Depth: With guided tours and ample time for exploration, you'll gain a deep understanding of Moroccan history and culture.
• Comfort and Leisure: Designed to be a grand tour, not a race, this itinerary balances travel with relaxation and in-depth exploration.

FAQ

Is this tour physically demanding? The tour is generally not physically demanding, but it does involve walking in cities and kasbahs. The camel trek is about one hour. Activities can be tailored to your fitness level.

What kind of accommodations are used? We use a selection of charming, high-quality riads and hotels known for their excellent service and Moroccan character. The desert camp is a luxury camp with private tents and ensuite bathrooms.

Can this tour be customized? Yes, all our tours are private and can be customized. We can adjust the itinerary, activities, and accommodation level to suit your interests and budget.