Discovering Morocco in 9 Days

  • Day 1: Marrakech Medina
    Located in Marrakech

    The Marrakech Medina is a UNESCO world heritage site and the old town of Marrakech. This vibrant and colorful marketplace is well known for its intricate architecture, historical landmarks, and cultural significance.

  • Day 2: Jardin Majorelle and Bahia Palace
    10 minutes (2.5 km) from Marrakech Medina

    Visit two gems of Marrakech, Jardin Majorelle, a beautiful botanical garden and Bahia Palace, a magnificent palace featuring stunning architecture and courtyards.

  • Day 3: Hassan II Mosque and Rick's Cafe
    3 hours and 35 minutes flight (from Marrakech to Casablanca) + 20 minutes (4.4 km) by taxi from Mohammed V Airport to the mosque.

    Visit the largest mosque in Morocco, the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, with its breathtaking architecture and ocean views. End the day at Rick's Cafe, a famous restaurant that replicates the set of the movie Casablanca.

  • Day 4: Chefchaouen
    5 hours and 45 minutes drive (643 km) from Casablanca to Chefchaouen

    Explore the blue city of Chefchaouen, known for its charming blue-washed buildings, colorful markets, and beautiful mountain views.

  • Day 5: Volubilis and Meknes
    2 hours and 5 minutes drive (130 km) from Chefchaouen to Volubilis; 30 minutes (27 km) drive from Volubilis to Meknes

    Discover the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO world heritage site with breathtaking mosaics and architecture. Continue onto Meknes, known for its Imperial City and the impressive Bab al-Mansour gate.

  • Day 6: Fes Medina and Bou Inania Madrasa
    2 hours and 8 minutes drive (142 km) from Meknes to Fes.

    Explore the medieval medina of Fes, a UNESCO world heritage site, and wander around the traditional souks and narrow alleyways. Visit Bou Inania Madrasa, an Islamic school known for its beautiful architecture and tilework.

  • Day 7: Erfoud and Merzouga Desert
    8 hours and 35 minutes drive (484 km) from Fes to Merzouga

    Head out on a desert adventure and visit Erfoud, a gateway to the Sahara Desert. Take a camel ride into the beautiful Merzouga desert, famous for its beautiful sand dunes, and watch the sunset over the desert.

  • Day 8: Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate
    7 hours and 40 minutes drive (462 km) from Merzouga to Ait Ben Haddou; 30 minutes (33 km) drive from Ait Ben Haddou to Ouarzazate.

    Visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO world heritage site and famous film location for movies such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Continue onto Ouarzazate, known as the "Gateway to the Desert" and visit the Taourirt Kasbah and Atlas Studios.

  • Day 9: Marrakech Souks and Jemaa el-Fnaa
    3 hours and 12 minutes drive (203 km) from Ouarzazate to Marrakech

    End the trip with shopping and exploring the bustling markets of Marrakech's souks, where you can find everything from spices, textiles, and handwoven rugs. End the day with a visit to Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square of Marrakech, known for its street performers, food stalls, and vibrant nightlife.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Marrakech Medina (2 hours, Free)
  • Jardin Majorelle and Bahia Palace (4 hours, 70 MAD)
  • Hassan II Mosque and Rick's Cafe (5 hours, 150 MAD)
  • Chefchaouen (8 hours, Free)
  • Volubilis and Meknes (8 hours, 120 MAD)
  • Fes Medina and Bou Inania Madrasa (6 hours, Free)
  • Erfoud and Merzouga Desert (10 hours, 500 MAD)
  • Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate (7 hours, 50 MAD)
  • Marrakech Souks and Jemaa el-Fnaa (6 hours, Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 890 MAD

Transportation

Travelers can easily get around Marrakech and Fes by walking or using taxis, while renting a car is recommended for longer journeys. Domestic flights are often the best option for covering long distances, such as from Marrakech to Casablanca. Keep in mind that travel times and costs may vary based on the time of year and availability.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the coastal town of Essaouira or a hike in the Atlas Mountains. If you have less time, consider skipping Erfoud and Merzouga Desert and spend more time in Marrakech or Fes.

Airports

There are several airports in Morocco, but the two main ones are Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in Casablanca and Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) in Marrakech. Both airports are well-connected to major cities in Europe and Africa.

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