Summer in Morocco: Tangier, Chefchaouen, Fes, Marrakech, Essaouira, Fes – 12 Days

Here’s where your Morocco adventure starts! Your private driver will take you from Casablanca to Tangier. This is a four-hour drive. You might want to see the Hassan II Mosque before you travel to Tangier. It is the second-largest mosque in Morocco, and the largest worldwide. The complex also includes a museum and baths. A library and a prayer area that can hold 25,000 people. The mosque’s unusual status is because non-Muslims are allowed to enter. This is not common in Morocco.

After you arrive in Tangier, you can either relax at your accommodation and enjoy a quiet meal or go out to explore the city. Tangier is a fascinating blend of cultures, stretching along the Maghreb coastline at the western end of the Strait of Gibraltar. The city has been influenced by many influences over the centuries. This has attracted artists, spies and eccentric foreigners.

Begin by taking a walk through the Medina (old city), and exploring its maze of residential and commercial alleyways. Next, take a stroll around Petit Socco Square. This area is known for its bustling markets, crafts shops and cafes. You can grab a bite or watch the people go by. You can close your first day in Morroco by visiting the cannons at Faro Square. Here you will have views of the harbor as well as the Bay of Tangier.

Today you can see more of Tangier, and all that it has to offer. Although not always a tourist destination, Tangier has recently undergone a makeover. The city’s new marina (a great place to take a short walk) and the revitalized old quarter attract tourists from all over the world. There are many things to do and see here, depending on your preferences.

Start at the 15th century Portuguese Tangier Kasbah fortified castle. It is small enough to be self-guided. After passing Bab Hha, you’ll enter Place du Mechouar. Continue your stroll along the Rue de la Liberte shopping street to the Place de France where you will find the Grand Cafe de Paris as well as the Hotel El Minzah. Later, join locals for a Paseo (stroll), along the palm-lined beachfront promenade, Corniche de Tanger.

You can also visit Cap Spartel or the Caves of Hercules if you want to explore the area outside of the city. These caves are located 9 miles (11.4 km) away from the city centre in the region Tangier–Tetouan–Al Hoceima. They were believed to have been dug during the Neolithic period. Mythology says that Hercules retreated there after his exploits were completed and that he created Strait of Gibraltar by moving the mountains around. The main corridor leads to many rooms within the caves. You can see the ocean through the openings in the walls. One opening looks like a map of Africa.

Your driver will take you from Tangier to Chefchaouentoday. This 2.5-hour drive takes you through small towns, flatlands, green hills, and finally into the rugged landscapes of the Rif Mountains. It’s time for you to explore after you have checked in at your accommodation. Chefchaouen, also known as the « Blue City », was established in 1471 to protect the city from the Portuguese. After the arrival of refugees from Granada in 1471, the town grew. They built Spanish-style homes and architecture which give the city its distinctive Spanish flavor.

To learn more, take a guided tour. You’ll start in the old medina where you will see bright-blue buildings and red-tiled roofs. Then, follow the narrow lanes that lead to Plaza Uta el-Hammam. You can browse the souks or the Grand Mosque, and Kasbah. Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque but anyone can see the exterior. You can walk through the garden, museum and old Spanish prison cells. You can then see Chefchaoeun from up on the roof.

You’ll be walking through colorful and winding streets in the Quartier al Andalous. Your day will end at Ras el Ma Spring where many families still wash their clothes in its main water source. You can stop at a riverside café for a cup of tea and then continue on to the Hotel Atlas, which offers stunning views of the entire city. Continue on the path for 30 minutes more to see the sunset from the Spanish Mosque.

Explore the beautiful Akchour Wasserfall near Chefchaouen, just outside of the city. You’ll meet your guide after an early breakfast for a day of exploring the natural world. The trailhead is a 45-minute drive away. The hike lasts approximately four hours.

Follow a well-marked trail and follow your guide through dense forests of Rif Mountains. This area is home the Barbary macaque monkey species. Keep an eye out for them. You can take photos or relax in the pools after you arrive at the cascades. For a last evening, you can return to the city. For the final evening, you can return to the medina for more souvenir shopping or simply relax in your riad (traditional Moroccan house) for the night.

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After saying goodbye to the Blue City take a private transfer to Fles. You will drive for 4.5 hours along the Rif Mountains. Your first stop is Volubilis. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains some of Morocco’s most well-preserved Roman ruins. You can tour the complex to see large merchant houses with visible heating systems, temples and colorful mosaics. This was once a part of the Roman Empire. The Romans ruled for almost 200 years.

Then you’ll travel to Mesknes the imperial capital of Moulay Ismail. Meknes transformed from a small village to a capital under the rule of the sultan. You can stroll the medina and see the stunning 19th-century palace at Dar Jamai. Explore the Ville Imperiale region, which includes gardens and palaces as well as the gate of Bab Al-Mansour and the Mausoleum Of Moulay Ismail. The Royal Stables is also available. Fes is your final stop. For a beautiful view of the old city, drive up to the Marinid Tombs before you settle into your accommodation.

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Today’s tour begins in the lively Fes medina. Your private guide will meet with you at the beginning of the day and take you through the cobbled streets, passing shops, mosques, markets, and other attractions. As you soak in Fes’ charm, you’ll visit historic monuments, learn more about medieval Marinid architecture and explore the souks. You will pass through the Blue Gate, a Moorish gate that has three arches. Then, enter the old town and walk into the bustling bazaars. You’ll find unique, hand-crafted products here, such as bright rugs and jewelry, as well large towers of spice.

Visit Chouara Tannery for its wide selection of leather dyes, centuries-old techniques and beautiful architecture. Next, visit the ninth-century Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, University and the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Stop by Bou Inania Madrasa and Al Attarine Madrasa to see beautiful Marinid-and Moroccan architecture. You can visit the Mellah Jewish District and the Royal Palace of Fes. Or, you can check out a museum like the Borj nord with its incredible rooftop views and collection of weapons, armor, and other items from many eras.

You can stop by a local restaurant to try some Moroccan food before you return to your riad. Or, if you want to really immerse yourself into the local cuisine, join a family for dinner in the medina. This is a rare opportunity that few visitors have the chance to enjoy. As you meet and chat with the joyful Moroccan family, you’ll discover the history and recipes of many Moroccan cuisines. This is a great way to learn about Moroccan culture. The family’s generosity and hospitality will touch you.

Transfer from Fes to Marrakech this morning. It takes just over five hours. After you have settled into your riad, you can venture out to explore the city. Marrakech, Morocco’s second largest metropolis, is nicknamed « Red City » due to its natural red pigment. You will find a vibrant mix of sounds, sights and smells everywhere you go in this high-energy city.

You can wander through the main square Jemaa el-Fna where you will find food stalls and souvenirs. Or, walk another 10 minutes to see the historic ruins El Badi Palace. This was once the home of sultan Ahmed el-Mansour and is now inhabited mostly by wild storks. The beautiful Koutoubia Mosque is also available for you to stroll around. It is the biggest mosque in the city. You can then relax in your accommodation for the evening and prepare for tomorrow’s full day.

The guided tour starts with a visit at Bahia Palace. Next, we will walk through narrow alleyways looking for hidden souks and fondouks (historic inns that once housed travelers and merchants). You can see the famous spice towers at Souk el Attarine, and the traditional Moroccan slippers in Souk Smata. You should also visit the Souk des Teinturiers where you can see locals weaving cloth and yarn. You can also escape the hustle-bustle of the city by taking a tour at Majorelle Gardens. You’ll find more than 300 species of flowers from five continents, and enjoy a peaceful afternoon respite.

A private tour of the medina is a great option for foodies. You’ll enjoy traditional Moroccan delicacies and delicious tajine (stew made in a claypot) on this culinary tour to the city’s most popular spots. You will also learn about the country’s key ingredients, cooking techniques and culinary culture. These influences are a great inspiration for local chefs to create delicious dishes.

Relaxing in a Moroccan Hammam (bathhouse) is the perfect way to unwind if you want some downtime. A steam session is followed by a scrub that’s based on ancient Roman bathing practices. Hammams usually have three steam rooms, each with different temperatures. The hottest room will be your first, and you’ll work your way down. After that, you’ll get a scrub using traditional eucalyptus soap followed by a kessa gloves. After rinsing off with cool water, you can relax with an argan oil massage to soften and soothe your skin.

You can say goodbye to the Red City by traveling to Essaouira today. It is a 2.5-hour drive which takes you across vast rolling plains to reach a forest that produces the rare argan tree. Also, you might be able to see goats in trees. The argan fruit is a favorite treat for goats, and they will climb into the thickets to enjoy this delicious treat. Your driver will stop at a cooperative where women make argan oil. This oil is well-known for its beauty and health benefits. You can learn about the production process, and perhaps pick up a sample.

The rest of the day is completely free after you arrive in Essaouira. This is a refreshing contrast to the hectic Marrakech. You can explore Essaouira’s beautiful beaches and surf culture. The 18th-century seafront ramparts, the Skala can be walked. The walls are lined with old brass cannons that were designed by European engineers and provide views of the Atlantic. Before you return to Essaouira, take a look at the UNESCO-listed Medina. Enjoy a delicious meal of freshly-caught seafood.

Today, discover the charming city Essaouira by a local guide. Your three-hour tour will begin under the watch tower in the city’s medina. Here you’ll meet your private guide. You’ll discover the city’s long history and many influences as you stroll through it. It has been occupied since 1506 by Phoenicians and Romans, as well as Indigenous Berbers and Phoenicians.

You can take this chance to visit traditional shops and find great souvenirs. Stop at the Spice Souk for herbs, Berber lipstick, exotic spice, and Ghassoul (clay that is used in facial masks). Here you can also find amlou, which is a mix of honey, almonds and argan oil. After touring Essaouira’s historic neighborhoods and central plazas, your guide will take you to the long, sandy Essaouira beach. You can enjoy the beach, the sun and glimpses of the surfers at the wind while you walk along it.

Take a private lesson on kitesurfing if you’re interested in trying out some local water sports. You will be taken to Sidi Kaouki Beach by your guide. Once you have donned your wetsuit, and gone over the equipment, you can learn how to handle, maneuver and guide the kite. You can practice a bit with your instructor, and then you will be able test your skills on your own, while your instructor is still nearby. Enjoy a great day at the waves and then return to Essaouira’s center.

Today, if you feel adventurous, go out into the desert to learn how to surf or sandboard down desert dunes. You can choose how fast or slow you want to go, and enjoy beautiful views of the surroundings along the way. After you’re done, stay for an evening sunset over desert.

A guided horseback ride along the beach is a better option for a tranquil Essaouira adventure. You’ll meet your guide and learn some basic techniques. Then, get to know your horse. Enjoy the long stretch of sand that runs along Essaouira, and the ocean breeze. Your guide will take you to quieter spots along the beach, so that you can see more of the natural beauty and leave behind the tourist crowds. You can either walk or gallop along the beach. You can watch the sun sink into the ocean while you are on an afternoon excursion.

Today is the end of your Moroccan adventure. A private transfer takes you from Essaouira airport to Marrakech airport. This takes about three hours. Enjoy safe travels to your next destination or home!