7 Days Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

Embark on a memorable 7-day journey from Marrakech to Merzouga, Fes, and Casablanca that offers an immersive experience into Morocco’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and historic cities. This tour takes you from the lively souks of Marrakech to the serene Sahara Desert dunes, charming Fes medina, and vibrant Casablanca coastline, creating a tapestry of Morocco’s most iconic sights and hidden gems.

Overview of the 7-Day Tour Itinerary starting from Marrakech

This 7-day tour provides an in-depth journey, covering historic landmarks, desert adventures, and authentic cultural encounters. Starting from Marrakech, you’ll travel across the High Atlas Mountains, visit the ancient ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, explore Todra Gorge, and finally reach the vast Sahara Desert before continuing to Fes and Casablanca.

Detailed Itinerary for the 7-Day Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga, Fes, and Casablanca

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate

Marrakech Departure and Tizi n’Tichka Pass

The adventure begins with a departure from Marrakech in the morning, where you’ll head toward the High Atlas Mountains. Travel along the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, a winding mountain road offering stunning views of traditional Berber villages and terraced farms.

Ait Ben Haddou

Your first major stop is the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, a historic kasbah famous for its mud-brick buildings and picturesque setting. This ancient fortified village has served as the backdrop for numerous films and TV series, such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Enjoy a guided tour and learn about the fascinating history and unique architecture of Ait Ben Haddou.

Ouarzazate

Arrive in Ouarzazate, also known as the “Gateway to the Desert.” Visit the famous Taourirt Kasbah and explore the local film studios, where many famous movies have been shot. Overnight stay in Ouarzazate, with a traditional Moroccan dinner to end the day.

Day 2: Ouarzazate – Skoura Oasis – Rose Valley – Dades Valley

Skoura Oasis

After breakfast, continue to Skoura Oasis, known for its lush palm groves and the iconic Kasbah Amridil. The Skoura region is dotted with several historic kasbahs, making it a beautiful and culturally rich landscape to explore.

Rose Valley

Pass through the Rose Valley, particularly vibrant during spring when rose fields bloom and locals harvest petals for rosewater products. You may even stop at local cooperatives where you can buy these artisanal goods.

Dades Valley

Travel onward to the Dades Valley, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and rock formations. Known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” Dades Valley offers striking red canyons and picturesque Berber villages. Overnight at a local guesthouse in the Dades Gorge area.

Day 3: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Erfoud – Merzouga

Todra Gorge

Following breakfast, head to Todra Gorge, a popular destination with towering rock walls reaching up to 300 meters. Here, you can explore the canyon, enjoy a scenic walk, or simply admire the beauty of this natural wonder.

Erfoud and Fossil Quarries

Travel toward Erfoud, known as the gateway to the Sahara Desert and famous for its rich fossil deposits. Explore local shops that offer unique fossil souvenirs, and learn about the area’s prehistoric history.

Merzouga and Camel Trek

In the evening, arrive in Merzouga, where you’ll embark on a camel trek through the Erg Chebbi dunes. Enjoy a sunset ride across the golden sands, making your way to the desert camp.

Desert Camp Overnight

Spend the night in a traditional Berber camp in the Sahara, where you’ll enjoy dinner under a starlit sky and have the chance to listen to live Berber music by the campfire.

Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani – Ziz Valley – Midelt

Sunrise in the Dunes

Start the day with a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, take a camel ride back to Merzouga, where you’ll meet your driver.

Rissani Souk

Explore the Rissani souk, a lively traditional market where locals trade everything from spices to livestock. This souk provides a window into daily life in southern Morocco and offers the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs.

Ziz Valley

As you drive through the Ziz Valley, you’ll pass an impressive landscape filled with date palms and ancient kasbahs. The Ziz River winds through this valley, creating an oasis that stretches for miles.

Midelt

Arrive in Midelt, a charming town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. Known as the “apple capital of Morocco,” Midelt offers a peaceful stopover and a chance to rest. Overnight stay in Midelt.

Day 5: Midelt – Cedar Forests – Ifrane – Fes

Cedar Forests and Barbary Apes

Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, where you’ll visit the Cedar Forests near Azrou, home to the indigenous Barbary macaques. The forest is a scenic spot where you can take a leisurely walk and see these friendly monkeys up close.

Ifrane: The “Switzerland of Morocco”

Next, stop in Ifrane, known for its alpine architecture and clean streets, earning it the nickname “Switzerland of Morocco.” Enjoy a brief stroll through the town and take in the European-inspired scenery.

Arrival in Fes

Arrive in Fes by late afternoon, where you’ll check in to your accommodation. Spend the evening at leisure or take a preliminary walk around this ancient city. Overnight in Fes.

Day 6: Full Day to Explore Fes

Guided Tour of Fes

Spend the day exploring Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Begin with a guided tour through the Fes el Bali (Old Medina), renowned for its labyrinthine alleys, bustling souks, and impressive architecture.

Al-Qarawiyyin University: Founded in 859 AD, this is the oldest continuously operating university in the world.
Chouara Tanneries: Watch artisans at work at one of the city’s famous leather tanneries.
Bou Inania Madrasa: Admire the intricate Islamic architecture of this historic theological college.

Experience Local Crafts

As you explore Fes, you’ll encounter workshops producing textiles, pottery, and other traditional crafts. The medina is a paradise for shoppers, offering everything from spices to handwoven carpets. Overnight in Fes.

Day 7: Fes – Meknes – Rabat – Casablanca

Meknes

On your final day, travel from Fes to Meknes, a lesser-known imperial city with a wealth of historical landmarks. Explore sites like the Bab Mansour gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Royal Stables.

Rabat

Continue to Rabat, Morocco’s capital city. Take a guided tour of the main attractions, including the Hassan Tower, Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Kasbah of the Udayas with its Andalusian gardens.

Casablanca

Arrive in Casablanca in the evening, where you’ll visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, known for its remarkable oceanfront setting and intricate design. End the day with a relaxing evening at your hotel in Casablanca.

Highlights of the 7-Day Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga, Fes, and Casablanca

Atlas Mountains: Traverse the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass with panoramic views.
Ait Ben Haddou: Explore the historic ksar and its unique architecture.
Sahara Desert Camel Trek: Enjoy a magical camel ride and an overnight stay in a desert camp.
Fes Medina: Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Morocco’s oldest medina.
Hassan II Mosque: Marvel at Casablanca’s iconic mosque, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Why Choose This 7-Day Tour?

This 7-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Morocco’s most iconic destinations and landscapes, combining cultural heritage with natural wonders. Perfect for travelers seeking an immersive Moroccan experience, this journey from Marrakech to Merzouga, Fes, and Casablanca covers all the essentials, making it a memorable adventure through the heart of Morocco.