Mystical Morocco: Chefchaouen, Fes, Marrakech, Essaouira, and the desert in 8 days

  • Day 1: Chefchaouen's Blue City
    Assilah to Chefchaouen: 1h10min (62.4 km)

    Experience the mesmerizing shades of blue in Morocco’s Blue City. This mountain village’s iconic blue and white painted walls are a photographer's dream, perfect for a morning stroll. Enjoy a cup of mint tea and shop for local handicrafts in the small alleys before heading to the Kasbah for an incredible view over the city.

  • Day 2: Discover Fes
    Chefchaouen to Fes: 4h (206 km)

    Explore the heart of medieval Morocco at Fes, the country's oldest city. Stroll through the labyrinthine streets of the Medina, see the tanneries and the Al Quaraouiyine University, and take a moment to marvel at the stunning Mosaic tiles of the Bou Inania Madrasa.

  • Day 3: The Magic of Marrakech
    Fes to Marrakech: 7h (534 km)

    Discover the bustling city of Marrakech, famous for its stimulating souks, Arabian nights atmosphere and landmarks such as the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and the Saadian Tombs. Visit the vibrant Djemaa El Fna square at night and let yourself be mesmerized by the storytellers, snake charmers and enchanting music.

  • Day 4: From Marrakech to Essaouira
    Marrakech to Essaouira: 2.5h (175 km)

    Travel to Essaouira, an ancient trading port known for its distinctive Portuguese, African and Arab influences. Explore the impressive ramparts and the UNESCO-listed Medina with its serene alleyways and cobblestone streets. Relax on the beach and enjoy the fresh seafood specialties, including grilled sardines.

  • Day 5: Free day in Essaouira
    No distance traveled.

    Spend the day at leisure, relaxing on the beach or shopping for gifts and souvenirs in the souks. If you are an art enthusiast, don't miss the Galerie d'Art Frederic Damgaard, showcasing vintage Moroccan travel posters, photographs and paintings.

  • Day 6: The Sahara Desert Adventure
    Essaouira to Merzouga: 10h (729 km)

    Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience and join a 4x4 guided tour to the Sahara Dunes. Ride a camel and camp under the stars in a traditional Berber camp after admiring the sunset over Erg Chebbi's seas of sand.

  • Day 7: Back to Civilization
    Merzouga to Ouarzazate: 5h20min (378 km)

    Return to Ouarzazate with a stop at the Toudgha Gorges, an impressive natural canyon of orange rock surrounded by the High Atlas Mountains. Visit the movie studios where movies such as Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, and Game of Thrones were filmed.

  • Day 8: End of the Journey
    Ouarzazate to Marrakech: 4h (199 km)

    Before departing for Marrakech, visit the Aït Ben Haddou kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has featured in many famous movies including Lawrence of Arabia and The Mummy. It's one of Morocco's most iconic locations, with intricate architecture emerging from the arid landscape.

Time and Costs Estimates:

  • Chefchaouen Kasbah (1-2 hours) - free
  • Fes Medina Tour (4 hours) - 180 MAD ($20)
  • Bahia Palace Marrakech (1-2 hours) - 70 MAD ($8)
  • Essaouira Beach (1-2 hours) - free
  • Sahara Desert Tour (3-4 days) - 3000-5000 MAD ($330-$550)
  • Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah (2-3 hours) - 30 MAD ($3)
  • Total estimated costs: 3480-5480 MAD ($380-$600)

Transportation:

Trains and buses are reliable and affordable options for domestic travel. Private taxis and shared minibusses are also available. The Sahara Desert tour includes transportation. Costs may vary depending on the season and the mode of transportation. The estimated cost for this itinerary is around 3500-5000 MAD ($380-$550).

Useful Tips:

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Blue Pearl of Morocco, the city of Chefchaouen for a day or two. If you have less time, it's best to fly into Marrakech or Casablanca and take a desert tour from there. Keep in mind that Friday is a rest day in Morocco, and many sites close during prayer times.

Airports:

The busiest airport in Morocco is Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in Casablanca. Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) and Fes-Saïss Airport (FEZ) are other accessible airports connecting with the major European cities. Casablanca airport is 30km south of the city center while Marrakech airport is 6km from the city center.

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