A Magical Moroccan Journey

  • Day 1: Chefchaouen
    From Tangier: 2 hours (125 km)

    Chefchaouen, also known as the "blue city", is a charming town located in the Rif Mountains. Famous for its blue-washed buildings and narrow alleys, Chefchaouen offers a unique and peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for wandering and enjoying the traditional handicrafts sold in the markets.

  • Day 2-3: Fes
    From Chefchaouen: 4.5 hours (220 km)

    Fes is one of Morocco's most impressive imperial cities, known for its stunning architecture and cultural significance. The city's medina - the largest pedestrianized urban area in the world - is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site that is home to one of the oldest universities in the world, as well as several beautiful mosques and museums.

  • Day 4-5: Marrakech
    From Fes: 8.5 hours (540 km)

    Marrakech is a chaotic and vibrant city, filled with art, history, and commerce. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs or the remarkable Jardin Majorelle. By nightfall, the city comes alive with street performers, music, and food stalls filling the public squares.

  • Day 6-7: Essaouira
    From Marrakech: 3 hours (180 km)

    The tranquil coastal city of Essaouira is well known for the stunning blue skies, sunshine, and glittering sea. Stroll through the old medina, a Unesco World Heritage site, and explore the fishing port, stock up on colorful textiles, pottery, and handicrafts, and laze around the sandy beach.

  • Day 8: The Sahara Desert
    From Essaouira: 10 hours (570 km), or from Marrakech 8 hours (475 km)

    Experience the adventure of your lifetime by taking a guided tour into the Sahara Desert. Spend a day riding over the sand dunes on camelback, watch the sun go down before enjoying a traditional dinner and then enjoy an unforgettable night’s sleep in a Berber tent under a blanket of stars.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Blue-washed buildings of Chefchaouen (2 hours, 100 MAD)
  • Medina of Fes (2-3 hours, free)
  • Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech (1 hour, 15 MAD)
  • Essaouira's old medina (2-3 hours, free)
  • Sahara Desert excursion including camel ride and accommodation (1 day, 700 MAD)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 915 MAD (approx. $105 USD)

Transportation

Travelers may hire private taxis, ride in shared taxis (called grand taxis), or take buses for long-distances. Each option varies in price and time. For instance, a grand taxi ride from Chefchaouen to Fes is the most common form of shared transport and costs around 70-100 MAD per person. Alternatively, buses are a more cost-effective option but take longer, with fares ranging from 60-100 MAD for a one-way trip. Domestic flights between cities are an option for travelers who would rather save travel time, but cost significantly more.

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, visit Casablanca, the seaside city made famous by the classic 1942 film. If your itinerary is too tight, skip Essaouira and instead spend extra days exploring Fes, Marrakech, or the desert. For adventure seekers, explore Morocco's Atlas Mountains by off-road vehicle or hike. What to pack? Comfortable shoes, light travel clothes, sunscreen, and a hat. Morocco's weather may vary according to the season, so it's better to pack layers.

Airports

The primary international airport in Morocco is Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), which is located in Casablanca, approximately 30 kilometers south of the city; it is linked to the city by a motorway. Other international airports are located in Marrakech (Menara Airport - RAK), Tangier (Ibn Battouta Airport - TNG) and Fes (Fes-Saïs Airport - FEZ). All these airports have regular connections with Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

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