Wondering where to go for your first visit to Morocco? This 10-day Morocco itinerary takes you from the Mediterranean port city of Tangier to the Blue City of Chefchaouen, the Medina of Fes and all the way to the fabulous dunes of the Sahara Desert and the famously vibrant city of Marrakech.
Morocco is an incredible destination for travel. From bustling historic cities filled with vibrant markets, to the fabulous Rif Mountains and the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert stretching as far as the eye can see. It seems to have it all!
The north of Morocco is a fantastic introduction to North Africa.
Here is everything you need to know to plan an epic first 10-day Morocco itinerary.
- About this 10 Day Morocco Itinerary
- Summary
- Highlights
- Best time to visit?
- Transport
- 10 DAY MOROCCO ITINERARY
Day 1 – Tangier
Day 2-3 – Chefchaouen
Day 4-5 – Fes
Day 6-7 – Merzouga
Day 8 – Ait Benhaddou
Day 9-10 – Marrakech - Have longer than 10 days in Morocco?
- Where to stay in Marrakech
- More about Morocco
About this 10-day Morocco itinerary
With 10 days in Morocco, you can experience a great range of the cultural, historic and natural diversity of the country.
This 10-day Morocco itinerary is designed as a one-way plan starting in Tangier and ending in Marrakech. In that way it maximises the main highlights of North Morocco and the Sahara Desert while starting and ending in cities with international flights.
Summary – 10-day Morocco itinerary from Tangier to Marrakech
See your complete adventure below.
- Day 1 – Tangier – Arrival
- Day 2 – Chefchaouen
- Day 3 – Chefchaouen
- Day 4 – Fes
- Day 5 – Fes
- Day 6 – Merzouga
- Day 7 – Merzouga – Desert Safari
- Day 8 – Ouarzazate (Ait Ben Haddou)
- Day 9 – Marrakech
- Day 10 – Marrakech
Highlights – 10 Day Morocco Itinerary – Tangier to Marrakech
There is so much of Morocco to choose from! Highlights of this 10-day Morocco itinerary include:
- Café Hafa Tangier
- Tetouan Medina
- Self-guided Chefchaouen walking tour
- Chefchaouen Kasbah
- Spanish Mosque (Chefchaouen)
- Chaouwara Tanneries (Fes)
- Bou Inania Madrasa (Fes)
- Al-Attarine Madrasa
- Erg Chebbi Sand Dunes (Merzouga)
- Camel Safari in the Sahara Desert
- Ait Ben Haddou (Ouarzazate)
- Jardin Majorelle YSL Garden
- Jmaa El-Fnaa Square
- Marrakech Medina
You can see a more detailed list in our articles about each Morocco destination.
What is the best time of year for this Morocco itinerary?
Generally the best time to visit Morocco is during the early spring (March-April) or autumn (September-November). This is when the climate is pleasant and summery throughout the country without being too hot for day-time exploration.
But Morocco really is a year-round destination.
In our experience we would also recommend the wintertime (December, January and February) as a perfect escape from the Northern-hemisphere to make the most of the sunshine and pleasant day-time temperature.
Winter is also a good time to explore the south and the Sahara fringes and further inland without overwhelming heat. Though do remember that even in the desert it can get bitterly cold during the night.
- Read about travel in Morocco during Ramadan.
What is the best way to get around Morocco on this itinerary?
For this particular 10-day Morocco itinerary, there are two main options for transportation:
- Rental car
- Public transport (bus)
Renting a car in Morocco is a great way to see the country. If you are confident driving (Morocco drives on the same side as Europe) this way gives you the most flexibility for independent travel.
Most rental car companies in Morocco offer a one-way rental option from Tangier and ending in Marrakech.
Otherwise, travel in Morocco is doable by bus.
CTM and SupraTours are two of the main bus companies in Morocco. Both cover the journeys between Tangier, Chefchaouen, Fes, Merzouga and Marrakech.
It is possible to book the buses online ahead of time. Or you can book through your accommodation as you travel.
- Read about driving in Morocco.
THE COMPLETE ADVENTURE – 10 DAYS IN MOROCCO
Read on for the full details of each day’s itinerary.
Day 1 – Tangier – Arrival
Welcome to Morocco! Tangier is a great city in Morocco to arrive to.
Depending on the time of your arrival today, drop your bags and set out to spend the afternoon exploring Tangier.
Tangier has a rich history due to both its geographical location and the historical presences of many civilizations laying claim to the region.
Consequently, modern day Tangier is full of the influence of history from all directions.
Every day ferries cross the Strait of Gibraltar within the hour connecting Tangier and North Africa with Europe and securing it’s claim as arguably North Africa’s most cosmopolitan city.
Head into the centre of the city first.
The main produce market is right off the Bab al Fahs where you enter the medina from the Grand Socco.
The souks of Morocco are hard to describe on paper but in person they are the heart and soul of the city. A walk through the markets of Tangier is the closest and best way to get a first insight into daily life in North Morocco.
Walk up towards the Kasbah and admire the view from the Phoenician Tombs.
Continue uphill for a first taste of Moroccan mint tea at one of the oldest cafes in Tangier. Café Hafa has existed since 1921 (as it proudly announces on entrance) and is a cliffside café with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Strait of Gibraltar.
- Read more about things to do in Tangier.
- Stay overnight in a hotel in Tangier.
Day 2 – Chefchaouen – Drive from Tangier to Chefchaouen
Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation in Tangier.
Set off around mid-morning for the drive from Tangier to Chefchaouen.
The road between the two cities is good. You should expect a drive of about three hours. (It takes a little less by taxi or car than by bus).
If you are travelling by rental car this makes for an ideal stop to visit the beautiful old city and Medina of Tetouan. There is plenty of parking in walking distance to the Medina.
Take a wander through the historic Mellah (Jewish Quarter), see the Catholic Church, try some Sfenj (Moroccan donuts) and check out the panoramic view towards the Rif Mountains.
After lunch in Tetouan, continue onwards towards Chefchaouen for dinner on yoru guesthouse rooftop.
- Read more about things to see in Tetouan.
- Stay overnight in Chefchaouen (1 of 2 nights)
Day 3 – Chefchaouen – Self-guided walking tour of Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen is Morocco’s famously BLUE city in the Rif Mountains of the north. It is a stunning, small city (by Moroccan standards). But the small size means it is perfect for exploring on foot.
See our detailed 1-day Chefchaouen itinerary for a self-guided walking tour of the city.
With one day in Chefchaouen you can see the famous blue medina, visit the communal bakery and public laundries in the cascades. Pop in and see the city’s oldest Hammam. Or just relax and enjoy lunch in the busy Plaza Uta El Hammam.
But whatever you do today, we recommend finishing the day watching sunset from the iconic Spanish Mosque overlooking Chefchaouen.
- Read more about things to do in Chefchaouen.
- Stay overnight in Chefchaouen (2 of 2 nights)
Day 4 – Fes – Drive from Chefchaouen to Fes
Today you are heading from Chefchaouen to the famous imperial city of Fes. But first enjoy breakfast on the rooftop for one last glimpse of the iconic blue city.
Set off in the mid-morning in the direction of Volubilis (and Fes).
Drive for about three hours.
Volubilis is a historic Roman city in Morocco. It has claim to fame as the furthest Roman outpost from Rome at the time of its prime.
It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997 and is arguably the best-preserved archaeological site in Morocco.
The historic city’s most amazing features are the many beautiful mosaics preserved in situ.
Drive for a further 1.5 hours to continue from Volubilis to Fes.
- Read all about visiting Volubilis and whether it is worth a stop.
- Stay overnight in Fes (1 of 2 nights).
Day 5 – Fes – 10 Day Morocco Itinerary
Fez is famous for its artisanal traditions, including leather work, ceramics and textiles. The city’s tanneries, dating back to the medieval period, are a unique sight and a testament to the city’s historical importance in the leather trade.
Depending on what you want to see in Fes, you could book a day tour or half-day tour of Fes.
Though we loved the bustle and vibrance of just wandering around the old city and Mellah of Fes. It is one of Morocco’s oldest cities and has many historic and cultural sites.
- Read more about things to do in Fes.
- Book tickets online for a half or full-day tour of Fes.
- Stay overnight in Fes (2 of 2 nights).
Day 6 – Merzouga – Drive from Fes to Merzouga
Merzouga is the last city before the Erg Chebbi Sand Dunes and Sahara begins. It is located in the southeast of Morocco.
You will notice instantly that your surroundings give the impression that you are already in the desert!
Once you arrive at your accommodation, go for a wander into the small town of Merzouga.
There are a few select restaurants for a traditional Moroccan dinner.
- Tip: If you feel like it tonight you can go for a walk out into the sand dunes to catch a first sunset in the Saharan Desert.
Day 7 – Merzouga – Camel Safari in the Sahara Desert and Erg Chebbi Sand Dunes
Today is the much-awaited desert adventure for your 10-day Morocco itinerary! A camel ride and an overnight stay in the Sahara Desert is spectacular, and something you will never forget.
The overnight desert experience starts in the mid-afternoon. So, you have the morning free to wander into town.
Merzouga is just a small desert town. But it is the main township for the Erg Chebbi sand dunes.
There are three or four small shops selling brightly coloured scarves for the desert and Moroccan Djeleba (hooded cloaks). Having a proper desert outfit makes the photos more fun when you go on your camel ride – which is next on the itinerary!
Pack your bags and transfers those to the tour company vehicle. Then depart – by camel – from your accommodation in Merzouga.
It’s time for a camel ride into the desert!
If this is your first time riding a camel, it can be a bit intimidating, but it gets easier as you go. Once you are up and riding you will feel more comfortable. We were even able to take photos and videos while we rode.
The ride into the desert is around one hour in duration.
Once you arrive at your camp for the night you will have free time to explore the dunes or go sand boarding near the camp.
Eat dinner cooked traditionally at the camp. Then after dark, enjoy a bonfire, some songs and dancing.
- Tip: Before you go to sleep, don’t forget to venture out of the camp and climb a dune to look at the stars!
- Stay overnight at a desert camp in the Sahara.
Day 8 – Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou – Drive from Merzouga to Ouarzazate
On the last morning in Merzouga, you’ll wake up early for another camel ride at sunrise. This is optional, and you can go back in a car if you prefer.
From Merzouga you depart around 9:00am this morning. Today again, we have a long day of driving ahead, but we take it easy because we have time enough.
The destination today is the iconic Moroccan village of Ait Benhaddou and the film-famous town of Ouarzazate.
Ait Benhaddou is a historic Ighrem or Ksar (fortified village) along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh in Morocco. It is considered a great example of Moroccan earthen clay architecture and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.
The site has also been used as a background set for a lot of famous movies, including Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, and Game of Thrones.
On arrival in Ait Benhaddou, take a wander down to the river.
The view across the river is magical. Plus, it’s great for photos. It is easy to see why this place has been featured in so many Hollywood movies.
The late afternoon is the best time for a wander up through the historic village to the viewpoint at the top.
Enjoy dinner at one of the many beautifully designed restaurants overlooking the village from across the river.
- Tip: If you leave early from Merzouga you can stopover at the impressive Todra Gorge en route.
- Stay overnight in Ait Benhaddou (1 night).
Day 9 – Marrakech – Drive from Ouarzazate to Marrakech
Today is another driving day back from Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate to Marrakech.
The journey is a long one. But it includes the incredible mountain pass of Tizi n’Tichka, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the High Atlas Mountains. This is the highest mountain pass in North Africa, with an elevation of 2,205 meters (7,234 feet).
Arrive in Marrakech and check into your accommodation.
Then head straight out for dinner in the famous Jmaa El-Fnaa Square.
- Stay overnight in Marrakech (1 of 2 nights).
Day 10 – Marrakech – Tour of Marrakech
Today is the last day of this 10-day Morocco itinerary. But perhaps you have saved the best for last!
Marrakech is one of the largest cities of the country and is filled with incredible history.
Most of the main highlights are centred around the busy Jmaa El-Fnaa Square.
- Marrakech Medina: A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Jardin Majorelle: Exotic gardens and the famous House of Yves Saint Laurent.
- Bahia Palace: 19th century palace with a photogenic courtyard and fountains.
- Saadian Tombs: Royal necropolis from the 16th century with marble columns and detailed mosaics.
- Koutoubia Mosque: Largest mosque in Marrakesh, built in the 12th century.
- Chez Lamine: Have lunch at one of the most famous restaurants (and dine where Gordon Ramsay did!).
- Hammam Mouassine: Try the oldest Hammam in Marrakech (in operation since 1562!).
Or take a day trip out to the beautiful Ourika Valley from Marrakech.
- Read more about things to do in Marrakech.
- Stay overnight in Marrakech (2 of 2 nights).
Have longer than 10 days in Morocco?
This is a great 10-day Morocco itinerary option for your first trip.
But what if you would like to take in more of Morocco?
Here are some other itinerary ideas and city guides for more of Morocco.
- Read more about the things to do in Chefcahouen, Casablanca, Tangier, Tetouan, Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght, Fes and Rabat.
Or if you are considering staying longer in Morocco or crossing south to Mauritania, see our travel guides for border crossings with Morocco.
- Read about crossing the Morocco Mauritania border from Dakhla.
- Read about crossing the border from F’nideq (Morocco) to Ceuta (Spain).
Where to stay in Marrakech
We highly recommend staying in a traditional Moroccan riad in the heart of the Medina in Marrakech. There are a range of options to suit all budgets.
Obviously, there are lot more destinations and accommodation options in Morocco to consider.
But here are some of the best rated riads in Marrakech to start with.
Budget riads in Marrakech:
Mid-range riads in Marrakech:
Luxury riads in Marrakech:
Overnight motorhome parking in Marrakech
There are a few campsites on the outskirts of Marrakech with motorhome parking and services.
But the best place to park with a motorhome close to all the things to do in Marrakech (walking distance) is in the guarded carpark near Koutoubia Mosque.
Parking Et Lavage La Koutoubia
- Location: Avenue Hommane Al Fatouaki
- Type: Paying Motorhome Area
- Park4Night: #29651
- Cost: 150 MAD 24hr
- Facilities: Toilets, Rubbish.
About: A private guarded parking lot in the heart of Marrakech. Campers are parked at the end of the car parking area with 24-hour security.
There are basic (very) toilets in the carpark. But the best thing about it is the proximity to all the things to do in Marrakech.
More about planning for travel in Morocco and beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It is easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere online.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have insurance before embarking on the above 10-day Morocco itinerary!
