Grand Morocco Tour – 13 Days

Welcome to Morocco! Casablanca, a modern and commercial capital of Morocco with fewer sights than the imperial cities Marrakech and Fes, is now open. For a quick tour, a morning might be enough.

The Hassan II Mosque is a beautiful spot on the coast that you should visit if you only have one choice in Casablanca. It was inaugurated in 1993 and is 656 feet tall. The courtyard is capable of holding 80,000 worshippers, and there are enough rooms to accommodate 25,000 people inside. The mosque’s exterior and surroundings are stunning, but what makes it unique is the fact that anyone can enter. Guided tours last for an hour and are offered on mornings from 9 to 2 pm. They also include a visit of the basement hammam. It is filled with marble, wood, and carved stones and has guided ceilings.

You can also bookmark these sites if you have a little more time in Casablanca:

• The « Old Medina, » is just 200 years old (newer than those of Fes or Marrakech).
• The Habous and Casablanca’s New Medina are two examples of art deco architecture. You can find many crafts here, including an olive, vegetable and spice market.
• Enjoy a leisurely stroll on the Boulevard de la Corniche. This is the Beach Promenade, also known as Morocco’s « Miami ». There are many other places of interest.
• Rick’s Cafe If your primary reason for visiting Casablanca, it’s to follow the footsteps of Ingrid Bergman or Humphrey Bogart. This recreates the iconic scene from the film’s legendary film.

Next, head north to Rabat, the capital and imperial city. This bustling city has many sights and a rich past. You can explore the medieval fortification of Chellah Neopolis in the heart of Rabat, and also wander through the Roman and Islamic ruins. Enter Rabat’s historic city center through the grand entrance of the Kasbah des Oudaias. Today, this area is mainly residential. You can peacefully wander the streets. You can visit the Andalusian Gardens, a peaceful space far from the bustle, and take a stroll through the area. The Hassan Tower is a minaret from the incomplete mosque. Also, visit the Mausoleum Mohamed V. This was a 12th-century effort that was abandoned. Today, all that is left is the red sandstone tower at 145 feet with about 200 columns.

After an exciting first day, get some sleep.

You can now travel to Tanger, which is a major gateway from Europe to Morocco. There are many new additions that will improve the city’s status as a tourist destination. These include a marina (a great place to take a short walk) and the Medina area.

Zoco Chico can be found in a trendy square that is surrounded by many cafes. It’s a great place to relax or people-watch. Tangerians can also take a stroll on the promenade at sunset, when the sun is setting.

The Tanger Kazbah fortified castle is small enough that it can be easily walked by yourself. You can enter Bab Hha, and then go to Place du Mechouar.

You can also visit Cap Spartel or the Cave of Hercules within a 15-20 minute drive from the city. This takes approximately 1 hour. When viewed against the Atlantic skyline the cave’s outline is believed to be similar to that of the African continent.

Enjoy dinner and an evening at your own pace.

Spend the morning exploring Tanger, the port city. You can also skip Tanger if you want to spend more time at your next destination, Chefchaouen. Take a scenic drive to Chefchaouen, and enjoy the transformation of the landscape as you approach the Rif Mountains.

Visit the Cascades d’Akchou waterfall located about 17 miles from Chefchaouen. This hidden gem is lush with verdant, dense vegetation. It also contains numerous cascades and pools. It takes a few hours to reach the waterfalls, but it is worth the effort.

Chefchaouen or « Chaoeun », as it is known by locals, means « two horns ». This name refers to the two peaks that rise above the hillside village. It is most well-known as The Blue City, which offers a maze of charming homes and streets. You’ll find a more relaxed atmosphere at the medina and the most friendly people you’ll meet in the country. The population grew in the 15th century when many Jews and Muslims fled southern Spain. It remained untouched and isolated up to the end of the 20th century.

The Medina, located on the northern slope of the hillside, will be your mainstay. Allow yourself to wander the narrow streets and alleyways; remember that many local residents still live there.

The Plaza Outa el Hammam is located at the bottom. This square was named after the number of hammams that used to surround it. You will find several cafes and restaurants here, as well as shops. These shops are a great place to spend time than Marrakech or Fes, because the prices are usually a little lower and shopkeepers might not pushy.

Visit the Grand Mosque or Kasbah. The Mosque was constructed by Moulay Mohammed in 1560. It is not accessible to non-Muslims, but the view from the outside can still be beautiful. The Kasbah (old fortification), can be visited in between 30-60 minutes. Here you will find a garden, museum and some old prison cells. For a better view of the city, climb up to the roof.

Continue walking up until you reach the city walls. There are a few gates. You will find a magnificent view, often all to your self, as you continue up the path towards the Hotel Atlas. There are switchbacks that lead up to the mountainside for a more strenuous hike.

Follow the streets east as the day ends. You will cross the Ras el Ma Spring, where the Oued el Kebir River flows below the town. There are a few cafes nearby that can serve late-night mint tea. Continue up the hill for between 20-30 minutes and you’ll reach the white Spanish Mosque. You can take a last look at the town from here as the sun sets behind mountains.

You may get a half hour of peace while you walk the streets in the morning if you rise early. Some travelers travel in the morning while others arrive in the afternoon. This is a great time to take unobstructed photos. Last-minute shopping is possible, but many shops are closed by 10 a.m.

You can make a quick detour as you travel towards Fes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains the best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco. The Romans ruled this town for 200 years. They left in 285CE when the empire became too big to manage and moved on to other parts. They exported and grew a lot of wheat, and many wild animals were sent to the capital to celebrate feasts, celebrations and sacrifices. This quickly decimated a large portion of the population.

You can also choose to stop at Meknes on the way, which is the imperial city Moulay Ismail. Most travelers just pass through the city, but those who have more time can find many places of interest. Although the city is large, there are two main areas of interest: the Ville Imperiale and the Medina.

Continue on to Fes with its enormous, ancient medina that runs down the hill. Stop at the Merenid tombs ruins above the city to enjoy the beautiful view of the old city before you continue your journey. You may be able to see leather drying in sunlight on the hillside below.

Enjoy your evening in a charming riad. If you wish, you can also dine in the riad.
Create your tour

Fes is one of the most fascinating and interesting imperial cities in Morocco. Fes is home to the largest Medina in all of the Arab worlds and it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was not colonized by the French, so it is hard to believe that much has changed over hundreds of years.

The three main areas are Fes el Bali, which is the old Fes and Medina and where you’ll spend most of your time, Fes el Magid (« New Fes ») and the Ville Nouvelle, which were both created by the French during their protectorate period (1912-1956).

If you are interested in history or culture, you can spend several days exploring the Medina, visiting Medersas and spending time outside the Medina walls. A full day spent exploring the medina with a few highlights from outside might be sufficient for a shorter trip.

For those who want to know more about the history and culture of Medina, a half-day guided tour will be available.

Most likely, you will want to spend most of your time in Fes and the Medina region. It is almost impossible to not get lost at least once. The roads are narrower, windier and steeper than those of Marrakech. You will find souks selling everything: vegetables, spices, leather goods and ceramics as well as shoes, scarves and medicines. You will find artisans working in small shops, as many are concentrated in certain areas. Fes is often associated to its tanneries. They still use many of the same techniques that they used for hundreds of centuries. For a great view from the top, visit a local leather shop. You can visit a ceramics cooperative just outside the Medina. Here you can also see tile masters at work, putting together intricate puzzles and creating impressive mosaics.

Next, stop by the Karaouine Mosque. It was built in 859, and can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers inside. Although it is closed to Muslims, there are some places you can look inside and admire its beautifully decorated interior. The Islamic University is located adjacent. It is considered the scientific capital of Morocco, and the oldest university in the world.

Visit the Madrasas to see student houses that were built for students who went to university. They are very detailed and intricately decorated. The Medersa Bou Inania, currently under renovation, and the Al Attarine Madrasa are two of the most popular. They were built in 1325. The main courtyard features a common design: intricate stucco carvings, detailed tile work and dark cedar woodwork. You can also find old student dorms upstairs and enjoy a great view from the windows.

Bab Boujeloud welcomes you to Fes el Bali’s west side. It is perhaps the most well-known of all the gates. The exterior is blue, which is the traditional color of Fes, while the inside is green. This is Islam’s preferred color. You will continue on the main street of Talaa Kebira as you pass through the gate. There are many shops along either side.

The Fes el Jedid is located southwest of the old city. It was built in 13th century by the Merenid Dynasty and conquered Fes in 1248. The Royal Palace is the main attraction, but visitors can still view the magnificently decorated gates.

After two long days spent touring Fes, you can enjoy dinner and the evening at your own leisure.

Fes is one of the most fascinating and interesting imperial cities in Morocco. Fes is home to the largest Medina in all of the Arab worlds and it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was not colonized by the French, so it is hard to believe that much has changed over hundreds of years.

The three main areas are Fes el Bali, which is the old Fes and Medina and where you’ll spend most of your time, Fes el Magid (« New Fes ») and the Ville Nouvelle, which were both created by the French during their protectorate period (1912-1956).

If you are interested in history or culture, you can spend several days exploring the Medina, visiting Medersas and spending time outside the Medina walls. A full day spent exploring the medina with a few highlights from outside might be sufficient for a shorter trip.

For those who want to know more about the history and culture of Medina, a half-day guided tour will be available.

Most likely, you will want to spend most of your time in Fes and the Medina region. It is almost impossible to not get lost at least once. The roads are narrower, windier and steeper than those of Marrakech. You will find souks selling everything: vegetables, spices, leather goods and ceramics as well as shoes, scarves and medicines. You will find artisans working in small shops, as many are concentrated in certain areas. Fes is often associated to its tanneries. They still use many of the same techniques that they used for hundreds of centuries. For a great view from the top, visit a local leather shop. You can visit a ceramics cooperative just outside the Medina. Here you can also see tile masters at work, putting together intricate puzzles and creating impressive mosaics.

Next, stop by the Karaouine Mosque. It was built in 859, and can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers inside. Although it is closed to Muslims, there are some places you can look inside and admire its beautifully decorated interior. The Islamic University is located adjacent. It is considered the scientific capital of Morocco, and the oldest university in the world.

Visit the Madrasas to see student houses that were built for students who went to university. They are very detailed and intricately decorated. The Medersa Bou Inania, currently under renovation, and the Al Attarine Madrasa are two of the most popular. They were built in 1325. The main courtyard features a common design: intricate stucco carvings, detailed tile work and dark cedar woodwork. You can also find old student dorms upstairs and enjoy a great view from the windows.

Bab Boujeloud welcomes you to Fes el Bali’s west side. It is perhaps the most well-known of all the gates. The exterior is blue, which is the traditional color of Fes, while the inside is green. This is Islam’s preferred color. You will continue on the main street of Talaa Kebira as you pass through the gate. There are many shops along either side.

The Fes el Jedid is located southwest of the old city. It was built in 13th century by the Merenid Dynasty and conquered Fes in 1248. The Royal Palace is the main attraction, but visitors can still view the magnificently decorated gates.

After two long days spent touring Fes, you can enjoy dinner and the evening at your own leisure.

Get started today. As you travel over the Middle Atlas Mountains and through a cedar wood forest, you’ll cover a lot of ground before reaching the desert area. You’ll pass several towns on your way to the Sahara Desert, near Merzouga.

Azrou is your first stop. Here you will climb over and under the Col du Zad Pass (7.146 feet) and through the cedar forests in the Middle Atlas Mountains. You will see Barbary Macaque Monkeys families in the trees along the roadside.

Next, take a break in Midelt to visit the  » Apple City« , where you can have lunch. You will also notice the River Moulouya nearby, which allows the orchard fruits in the desert to grow.

Continue onwards over the Tizin-Talremt Pass to the Ziz Val. This area is known for its hidden oases, clusters of palm trees, and other natural wonders. You will pass many fortified houses, known as « ksars », built by merchants to protect valuable products such as gold, salt and spices.

You will see the first signs of the Sahara desert sand dunes just before you reach Erfoud. The wind direction and speed of the dunes determine how they move. This area also features an ancient method for water mining, which is a clever way to move water to farms before modern pumps. You’ll see tents and nomadic shepherds along the route. It is possible to visit the area and enjoy tea with one of the nomadic Berber families.

Erfoud, a lively market town, is famous for its date festival. It’s also known for its fossil mining operations and artisan factories. You may have seen fossils at the markets. You will pass hillside mines that extract large rocks from the earth. Stop by a local artisan group to learn more about the different fossils in the area, and see how they are transformed into beautiful, small-sized objects.

Soon you’ll be able to see the Erg Chebbi sand waves in the distance. The Erg Chebbi, a large sand sea with dunes, is especially enriching before sunset.

You can stop near Merzouga to take a break while you prepare for your camel ride through dunes. Arrive at your camp before sunset. You can climb up to the highest sand dunes to see the sunset on the sand sea. After that, you will return to your camp to enjoy dinner and Berber music by the campfire. Take a moment to admire the night sky before you go to bed.

You can also choose to stay in a Merzouga hotel/auberge if you don’t want to spend the night in a Bedouin tent.

You’ll enjoy a sunrise view of the sand dunes if you wake up early. Spend the morning exploring the Sahara. You can rent a board, test your skills on dunes, join an ATV quad tour, or just relax by the pool.

Nearby Khamleya you will find a traditional Saharan village with its inhabitants originally from Mali. Enjoy traditional music, dancing, and drumming before you take a stroll around the village’s plots of sand.

Stop in Rissani as you leave the Merzouga area. This is another market town that has an impressive gate at its entrance. This is a great place to walk around traditional markets, especially during the day when animals are being sold and bought. While you are there, make sure to stop at the « donkey parking area ».

Continue on through the desert until you reach Tinerhir. Here, you will have a fantastic view of nearby towns. These towns cling to the banks of the green river oasis and are filled with green palms trees. Amazing buttes, mesas and plateaus surround the desert landscape.

Next, visit the Todra Canyon. This 984 foot high canyon was formed by the Todra river, which cut through red stained limestones. You can take a stroll through the gorge or simply relax in the river’s cool waters. You can explore the rest of the evening or just relax.

Today’s journey takes you along the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs. a Kasbah is a fortified « fort », where landowners and chiefs once lived. Many of the kasbahs have fallen into disrepair. You will find many farming activities in this region, some still using traditional methods. Nomads are common here, tending to their sheep, goats and camels.

You’ll then pass through Boumalne Dades which is a major town, and bridging point above the Dades River , until reaching El Kelaa Mcgouna. These rose bushes are used in cosmetics to make rose oil and rose water. A Rose Festival is held in May to celebrate the year’s production. A rose collective is a great place to stop by and see how the petals are transformed into oil and water, and even sample some of their products. You might see some boys selling crafts made with roses along the side of the road.

You’ll next enter the growing town Ouarzazate. This is a popular stop along the desert roads as it provides a little more accessibility than other nearby towns like Ait Benhaddou. You can visit one of the two movie studios Atlas Corporation Studios, or CLA Studios to get a close look at props and sets.

Many movies have featured the region, which includes scenes from the Middle East, Africa, and desert. The Last Temptation of Christ and Lawrence of Arabia are some of the most well-known films.

Ait Benhaddou, the most well-known Kasbah in Morocco, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old ksar is believed to date back to the 11th century when it was an important point along the trans-Saharan route that connected Marrakech, Ouarzazate and the southern desert. Spend a night there and explore the abandoned alleyways late at night and before the crowds arrive. For great views over the area and to see the remains of old camel train routes, climb up the Granary high up the hill. You can climb up to a few old kasbahs by paying a small fee.

After your day of exploration is done, you can enjoy dinner and take some time to rest.

You can see the highest peak, Mount Toubkal at 13,671 feet, as you climb the High Atlas Mountains today. You can see the entire mountain range from the top. The road that runs down the mountainside is also visible.

Taddert is the first town after the pass. Here you can visit an Argan Oil Cooperative and learn about the process of the crop’s various uses. As you ascend the high-altitude slopes of High Atlas Mountains to the north, you’ll notice a drastic change in the climate and landscape. River valleys are carved into the hillsides. You will soon find yourself in the bustle and excitement of Marrakech, after all the peace and tranquility of the desert.

You may prefer to spend the rest the afternoon in Marrakech at a slower pace once you arrive. The main square Jemaa El Fna Square comes alive in the evening with performers, snake charmers and games. You can also enjoy the show from afar at the many cafes around the square.

Marrakech is a lively city that has been filled with foreign sounds, sights, and smells for centuries. It can be quite a shock for some. « The Red City » was named after the natural reddish pigment found in the walls. It is Morocco’s second largest city.

A guide can be hired for half-day tours to help you learn about the Medina’s history, culture, or hidden treasures. The main attraction to Marrakech is Jemaa el Fna Square. This square fills up in the afternoon with storytellers and acrobats as well as dancers, henna artists and snake charmers. Many food stalls will start to open as it gets darker. They offer everything from full meals to fruit drinks to small snacks.

You will find lines of Caliche Horse Carriages at the southwest corner. These are that you can use to explore the surrounding area. The square is less active during the day. You have a few other options to pass your time. These are listed below.

You’ll find the striking minaret at the Koutoubia Mosque to the west of Jemaa el Fna. This minaret was built during the Almohad Dynasty. Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque. The foundations of the original mosque can be seen on the north side of the mosque. They had to rebuilt in order to align properly with Mecca. The beautiful Koutoubia Gardens are located at the back of the mosque. They are filled with flowers, fountains, palm trees, palm trees, and pools. This is a great place to take a stroll in the afternoon, as the sun sets behind the minaret.

You can easily spend a few days wandering the small streets and markets of Medina. As you walk, take in all the sights, sounds and smells. You can find shade in many areas, which can provide a welcome relief from the heat. You might want to visit the following souks:

• Souk el Attarin (spices).
• Souk Haddadine (blacksmiths).
• Souk Smata (slippers).
• Souk des Teinturiers is the dyers’ market.

You’ll find large open spaces and courtyards along many of the alleyways. These Fondouks used to be inns that were used by merchants and traders who slept on the top floors, while their animals stayed at the ground floor. Some have been converted to residential areas, while others can be explored as large shopping areas or workshops.

The beautifully renovated Medersa Ben Youssef, a Koranic School, was built in 16 century. It once housed students from the nearby mosque of Ben Youssef. You can admire the stucco plaster, carved cedar and zellij tiles of the central courtyard. Also, you can wander through the old dormitories where up to 800 students used to live.

The Almoravid Koubba is another site in the vicinity. It’s the only Almoravid structure that remains.

The Kasbah is located south of Jemaa el Fna and offers many worthwhile sights including:

• Saadian Tombs The oldest tomb in this area dates back to 1557. It was kept secret for many years, and was only discovered by inquisitive French Authorities. Through a narrow passage, you’ll find a small garden with graves and three main pavilions. You will be amazed at the beauty and craftsmanship as you look inside.
• El Badi Palace is currently under renovation. It was built in the 17th century and fell into disuse after the death El Badi, « The Incomparable. » You can enjoy the large courtyard and sunken gardens.
• Bahia Palace This palace was built in 19th century and was the largest and most expensive in its time. You can still explore the gardens and the courtyard today, as well as the intricate woodwork, painted ceilings, and enjoy the beautiful architecture.
• Majorelle Gardens – These lush, sprawling gardens are just a short walk from the medina. They’re home to sub-tropical plants like bamboo, lilies and palms. This is a great place to escape the heat and noise of the afternoon for a more peaceful experience.

After two days of exploration, you can enjoy dinner and the evenings at your own leisure.

Marrakech is a lively city that has been filled with foreign sounds, sights, and smells for centuries. It can be quite a shock for some. « The Red City » was named after the natural reddish pigment found in the walls. It is Morocco’s second largest city.

A guide can be hired for half-day tours to help you learn about the Medina’s history, culture, or hidden treasures. The main attraction to Marrakech is Jemaa el Fna Square. This square fills up in the afternoon with storytellers and acrobats as well as dancers, henna artists and snake charmers. Many food stalls will start to open as it gets darker. They offer everything from full meals to fruit drinks to small snacks.

You will find lines of Caliche Horse Carriages at the southwest corner. These are that you can use to explore the surrounding area. The square is less active during the day. You have a few other options to pass your time. These are listed below.

You’ll find the striking minaret at the Koutoubia Mosque to the west of Jemaa el Fna. This minaret was built during the Almohad Dynasty. Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque. The foundations of the original mosque can be seen on the north side of the mosque. They had to rebuilt in order to align properly with Mecca. The beautiful Koutoubia Gardens are located at the back of the mosque. They are filled with flowers, fountains, palm trees, palm trees, and pools. This is a great place to take a stroll in the afternoon, as the sun sets behind the minaret.

You can easily spend a few days wandering the small streets and markets of Medina. As you walk, take in all the sights, sounds and smells. You can find shade in many areas, which can provide a welcome relief from the heat. You might want to visit the following souks:

• Souk el Attarin (spices).
• Souk Haddadine (blacksmiths).
• Souk Smata (slippers).
• Souk des Teinturiers is the dyers’ market.

You’ll find large open spaces and courtyards along many of the alleyways. These Fondouks used to be inns that were used by merchants and traders who slept on the top floors, while their animals stayed at the ground floor. Some have been converted to residential areas, while others can be explored as large shopping areas or workshops.

The beautifully renovated Medersa Ben Youssef, a Koranic School, was built in 16 century. It once housed students from the nearby mosque of Ben Youssef. You can admire the stucco plaster, carved cedar and zellij tiles of the central courtyard. Also, you can wander through the old dormitories where up to 800 students used to live.

The Almoravid Koubba is another site in the vicinity. It’s the only Almoravid structure that remains.

The Kasbah is located south of Jemaa el Fna and offers many worthwhile sights including:

• Saadian Tombs The oldest tomb in this area dates back to 1557. It was kept secret for many years, and was only discovered by inquisitive French Authorities. Through a narrow passage, you’ll find a small garden with graves and three main pavilions. You will be amazed at the beauty and craftsmanship as you look inside.
• El Badi Palace is currently under renovation. It was built in the 17th century and fell into disuse after the death El Badi, « The Incomparable. » You can enjoy the large courtyard and sunken gardens.
• Bahia Palace This palace was built in 19th century and was the largest and most expensive in its time. You can still explore the gardens and the courtyard today, as well as the intricate woodwork, painted ceilings, and enjoy the beautiful architecture.
• Majorelle Gardens – These lush, sprawling gardens are just a short walk from the medina. They’re home to sub-tropical plants like bamboo, lilies and palms. This is a great place to escape the heat and noise of the afternoon for a more peaceful experience.

After two days of exploration, you can enjoy dinner and the evenings at your own leisure.

Today you will be saying goodbye to Morocco. You will fly home from Marrakech after you have traveled 3.5 hours to Casablanca. All the memories, trinkets and connections that you made in Morocco will be with you.