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8 DAY ITINERARY MOROCCO

Map route of morocco itinerary 8 days including Tangier, Chefchaouen, Fes, Merzouga, Boumalne Dades, Marrakech, and Casablanca.
Map showing a complete morocco itinerary 8 days route through top destinations including Fes, Merzouga, Boumalne Dades, Marrakech, and Casablanca.

8 Day Itinerary Morocco

Tour Overview

Embark on a magical Morocco itinerary 8 days, a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure. This Morocco 8 day tour offers the best highlights from the bustling cities to the golden Sahara dunes, making it ideal for those wondering, is 8 days enough in Morocco? Yes, it is!

Your 8 day itinerary Morocco begins in the cosmopolitan city of Casablanca, where you visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque. Then head to the cultural capital, Fes, for a deep dive into Morocco’s rich history and maze-like medina. The journey continues through Ifrane and the cedar forests of Azrou before arriving in the majestic Sahara Desert.

Experience a camel trek in Merzouga and sleep under the stars in a desert camp one of the most unforgettable moments in your 8 days in Morocco. Then drive through the Todra Gorges and Dades Valley, capturing the beauty of Morocco’s varied landscapes. The tour leads to the cinematic town of Ouarzazate and the famous Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Your 8 day Morocco itinerary finishes in the vibrant city of Marrakech. Explore the colorful souks, historic palaces, and lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning explorer, this Morocco 8 days experience is well-rounded and full of authentic adventures.

In summary, this carefully crafted Morocco 8 day itinerary ensures you see the country’s top highlights without feeling rushed. If you’re planning to explore Morocco in 8 days, this route offers the ideal balance of cultural discovery and scenic wonder, making it one of the best 8 days Morocco itinerary options available.

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Start: Casablanca

End: Casablanca

Tour Style: Private Tour

morocco highlights 8 day

Casablanca – Home to the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco, perched dramatically over the Atlantic Ocean.

Rabat – The modern yet historic capital of Morocco, known for its Royal Palace, Hassan Tower, and palm-lined boulevards.

Meknes – A relaxed imperial city, famous for its monumental gates, royal granaries, and charming medina less crowded than Fes or Marrakech.

Volubilis – Impressive UNESCO-listed Roman ruins, showcasing mosaics and columns from the Roman Empire’s southernmost reach.

Fes – The spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco, with a labyrinthine medina, colorful tanneries, and the world’s oldest university.

Ifrane & Azrou – Pass through “Little Switzerland” of Morocco, and stroll cedar forests where wild Barbary macaques roam.

Merzouga & the Sahara Desert – Explore the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes, ride camels across golden sands, and sleep under the stars in an authentic Berber camp.

Todra Gorge – Known as Morocco’s Grand Canyon, with towering red rock cliffs and a picturesque riverbed perfect for short hikes and photography.

Dades Valley – Serpentine mountain roads, lush palm groves, and dramatic rock formations in the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.”

Ouarzazate – The Hollywood of Morocco, featuring Atlas Film Studios and historic kasbahs used in Game of Thrones and Gladiator.

Ait Benhaddou – An iconic, earthen clay UNESCO World Heritage Site, a fortified ksar that’s a must-stop en route to Marrakech.

Marrakech – A sensory overload in the UNESCO-listed medina, bustling Jemaa-el-Fna square, vibrant souks, Bahia Palace, and the serene Majorelle Garden.

why going private for your Morocco 8 day tour

Flexibility & Customization

A private 8 day Morocco itinerary is fully adaptable to your pace, interests, and schedule. Want more time at the Sahara dunes or a detour to a hidden gem? Your guide can adjust the plan without hassle.

Dedicated Driver & Local Guide

Enjoy the comfort of a private vehicle with an experienced driver-guide who knows Morocco intimately. Get local insights, cultural tips, and personalized recommendations along the journey.

Comfort & Convenience

Travel in a clean, air-conditioned 4×4 or van, with hotel pick-ups, door-to-door service, and luggage assistance. Perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking peace of mind.

Authentic Cultural Interaction

Without the rush of group schedules, you’ll have more time for authentic experiences like sharing tea with Berber nomads, chatting with artisans in Fes, or watching the stars in the Sahara desert camp.

Skip the Crowds

A private Morocco 8 days tour lets you avoid crowded tourist buses and choose off-the-beaten-path stops, giving you a deeper and more peaceful experience of Morocco.

8 Day Itinerary Morocco

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Your 8 Day Morocco Itinerary begins with a personalized pick-up from Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, the port, or directly from your accommodation. Casablanca, known as Morocco’s economic capital, is a vibrant mix of modern energy and cultural heritage.

Start your tour with a visit to the majestic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Its stunning location on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, with part of the structure built over the water, makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in the country. Non-Muslim visitors can also join a guided tour inside (based on prayer times and availability).

After some free time for lunch at a seaside restaurant on the Corniche, enjoy a relaxed drive through the city’s main avenues. Highlights include the United Nations Square, Royal Palace (exterior view), the Habous Quarter a charming mix of French and Moroccan architecture and the elegant Mohammed V Square.

In the late afternoon, take a scenic stroll along the Ain Diab Corniche, lined with cafes, beach clubs, and oceanfront views. It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset over the Atlantic before heading to your hotel.

Overnight in Casablanca

Driving Distance: Minimal local travel within the city
Driving Time: Approx. 1 to 1.5 hours of city transfers depending on traffic

Day 2: Casablanca – Rabat – Chefchaouen

After breakfast, begin your journey north along the scenic Atlantic coast toward Rabat, Morocco’s modern capital and one of its historic imperial cities. This city blends contemporary infrastructure with ancient landmarks and has a more relaxed atmosphere than other major Moroccan cities.

Upon arrival (approx. 1.5 hours from Casablanca), visit iconic sites such as:

  • Hassan Tower, the unfinished minaret of a 12th-century mosque
  • Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of modern Alaouite architecture
  • The picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas, a fortress offering sweeping views of the Bou Regreg River and the Atlantic Ocean

After some free time for lunch in Rabat, continue your journey inland through the Rif Mountains via the scenic town of Ouazzane. The drive offers beautiful mountain and countryside views as you approach the magical blue-washed town of Chefchaouen, nestled high in the Rif.

Chefchaouen is famous for its peaceful ambiance, artistic vibe, and blue-and-white medina, making it one of the most photographed places in Morocco. Upon arrival in the late afternoon, you’ll have time to relax or begin a gentle stroll through its tranquil alleyways.

Overnight in Chefchaouen

Driving Distance:

  • Casablanca to Rabat: approx. 90 km
  • Rabat to Chefchaouen (via Ouazzane): approx. 250 km
  • Total: ~340 km

Total Driving Time: Approx. 5.5 to 6 hours, including stops

Day 3: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

Begin your day with a relaxed morning walk through the blue-painted alleys of Chefchaouen, one of Morocco’s most charming towns. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen’s medina is a haven for photography, local crafts, and peaceful vibes. Don’t miss the Spanish Mosque viewpoint for a panoramic view of the town.

Mid-morning, depart southward toward the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its remarkably preserved mosaics, triumphal arches, columns, and houses dating back to the 3rd century BC. Volubilis offers a fascinating window into Morocco’s pre-Islamic history.

After exploring Volubilis, drive a short distance to Meknes, the third imperial city of your journey. Visit the massive Bab Mansour gate, the tranquil Sahrij Souani (Royal Granaries), the Royal Stables, and the Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail, the powerful 17th-century ruler who once made Meknes the capital of Morocco.

Later in the afternoon, continue eastward to Fes, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. On arrival, check into your traditional riad (Moroccan guesthouse) nestled in the ancient medina.

Overnight in Fes

Driving Distance:

  • Chefchaouen to Volubilis: approx. 150 km
  • Volubilis to Meknes: approx. 30 km
  • Meknes to Fes: approx. 65 km
  • Total: ~245 km

Total Driving Time: Approx. 5 to 5.5 hours, including sightseeing stops

Day 4: Full-Day Guided Tour of Fes – Cultural & Historical Exploration

After breakfast at your riad, set out on a full-day guided tour of Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city and a living museum of Islamic culture and tradition. Known for having the world’s largest car-free urban area, Fes offers a journey back in time through its narrow, winding alleyways.

Begin your day with a photo stop at the Royal Palace gates (Dar el-Makhzen), featuring ornate brass doors and intricate zellige tilework. Then enter the ancient UNESCO-listed Medina of Fes el-Bali, home to over 9,000 labyrinthine streets, bustling souks, and centuries-old craftsmanship.

Key highlights include:

  • Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate) – the iconic entrance to the old city
  • Bou Inania Madrasa – a beautifully restored theological college
  • Nejjarine Fountain and Carpenter’s Museum in the square of the same name
  • The vibrant Chouara Tannery, where leather is still dyed using traditional methods
  • The Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University – considered the oldest operating university in the world

In the afternoon, continue to the old Mellah (Jewish Quarter) and visit the Ibn Danan Synagogue (optional). Finally, drive up to the Merenid Tombs or Borj Nord, a hilltop fortress that offers stunning panoramic views over the medina especially at sunset.

Overnight in Fes

Local Travel Distance: Minimal – mostly on foot within the medina and short city transfers
Total Touring Time: Approx. 6–7 hours, including walking and short drives

Day 5: Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert & Camel Trek

After breakfast, begin your scenic journey south through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Your first stop is Ifrane, famously nicknamed “Morocco’s Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture, cool climate, and pristine cleanliness. This charming town is a stark contrast to Morocco’s desert regions and is often snow-covered in winter.

Continue to the nearby cedar forest of Azrou, home to the Barbary macaques. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful walk among towering cedar trees and even interact with the monkeys in their natural habitat.

From there, travel to Midelt, a town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, where you’ll stop for lunch. After your break, the route takes you through the breathtaking Tizi-n-Tilghmt Pass and along the lush Ziz Valley, dotted with palm groves, deep gorges, and fortified kasbahs. Several panoramic viewpoints offer perfect photo opportunities.

By late afternoon, arrive at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. Here, you’ll begin your camel trek across the golden sands, guided by a local camelman. Stop atop a high dune to watch the sunset over the desert a magical moment.

Then continue to your luxury or standard desert camp, where you’ll be welcomed with mint tea. Enjoy a traditional Berber dinner, followed by drumming, dancing, and storytelling around the campfire under the stars.

Overnight in a desert camp in Merzouga

Driving Distance:

  • Fes to Merzouga (via Ifrane, Midelt, Ziz Valley): approx. 470 km

Total Driving Time: Approx. 7 to 8 hours, with multiple scenic and rest stops

Day 6: Merzouga Desert – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

Start your day early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara Desert, a highlight of any 8 day Morocco itinerary. After breakfast at the desert camp, enjoy a camel ride back to Merzouga village, where your driver will be waiting to continue the journey.

Your first stop is Rissani, the former capital of the ancient kingdom of Tafilalet and a significant commercial center in the region. Visit the bustling Rissani Souk, especially vibrant on market days Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays where locals trade everything from livestock to spices and textiles.

Next, drive to Erfoud, a town famous for its fossil industry. Visit a workshop where ancient marine fossils are transformed into beautiful marble products, offering insight into Morocco’s prehistoric geology.

From Erfoud, travel west through the scenic palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad, arriving at the spectacular Todra Gorges. These dramatic red limestone canyons, carved by the Todra River, feature cliffs towering up to 300 meters high. Take a walk along the gorge floor, a favorite among hikers and climbers, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, continue your drive through the rugged terrain of the Dades Valley, passing through Boumalne Dades. Along the way, stop to admire the famous “Monkey Fingers” rock formations and enjoy a panoramic view of the valley, dotted with kasbahs, palm groves, and traditional Berber villages.

Overnight in a hotel in Dades Valley

Driving Distance:

  • Merzouga to Dades Valley (via Rissani, Todra Gorges): approx. 290 km

Total Driving Time: Approx. 5.5 to 6 hours, including stops and sightseeing

Day 7: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Skoura Palm Groves – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

After breakfast, set off for Kalaat M’Gouna, famous for the Rose Valley and its vibrant annual May Festival celebrating the region’s prized rose products such as perfumes, oils, and cosmetics. Explore the rose gardens and local shops offering handcrafted rose-infused goods.

Next, drive through the lush palm groves of Skoura, a scenic oasis dotted with ancient kasbahs and traditional Berber villages. This verdant area provides a striking contrast to the surrounding arid landscapes.

Continue onward to Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Sahara Desert” and known as the Hollywood of Morocco. Visit the famous Atlas Film Studios, where iconic films like Gladiator, The Mummy, and TV series such as Game of Thrones were filmed. This stop offers a fascinating peek behind the scenes of Moroccan cinema.

From Ouarzazate, drive to the spectacular UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, an ancient fortified village renowned for its striking red clay architecture. This iconic kasbah has been the backdrop for numerous blockbusters and is one of Morocco’s most visited cultural landmarks.

In the afternoon, begin the journey to Marrakech by crossing the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest mountain pass in the Atlas Mountains at over 2,260 meters (7,400 feet). Enjoy several stops for lunch and panoramic photo opportunities as you take in breathtaking views of the High Atlas peaks and valleys.

Arrive in Marrakech in the early evening and check into your traditional riad in the heart of the medina.

Overnight in Marrakech

Driving Distance:

  • Dades Valley to Kalaat M’Gouna: approx. 40 km
  • Kalaat M’Gouna to Skoura: approx. 50 km
  • Skoura to Ouarzazate: approx. 30 km
  • Ouarzazate to Ait Ben Haddou: approx. 30 km
  • Ait Ben Haddou to Marrakech (via Tizi n’Tichka Pass): approx. 200 km
  • Total: ~350 km

Total Driving Time: Approx. 6.5 to 7 hours, including stops

Day 8: Marrakech – Casablanca

On your final day, after breakfast, depart from Marrakech and head north toward Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport for your onward flight. The journey takes you through scenic landscapes, with opportunities to stop for photos and enjoy the changing vistas of Morocco’s countryside.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to make a brief stop in Settat or another charming town along the route to stretch your legs and soak up the local atmosphere.

This transfer marks the end of your unforgettable 8 Day Itinerary Morocco, filled with rich cultural experiences, historic sites, desert adventures, and mountain landscapes.

Driving Distance:

  • Marrakech to Casablanca Airport: approx. 240 km

Driving Time: Approx. 2.5 to 3 hours

8 Day Itinerary Morocco

 Price includes

✅Private 4×4 or minibus with air conditioning.
✅Fuel included.
✅English or Spanish-speaking driver.
✅Hotel or riad stays.
✅One night at a desert camp.
✅Camel ride experience.
✅Breakfasts provided.
✅Two dinners (based on accommodations).

Price Does Not Include

❎Lunches & Drinks

❎Fees to enter monuments.

 

8 Day Itinerary Morocco

Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca at sunrise, a must-visit destination during 8 Days in Morocco.
A panoramic view of the blue-painted town of Chefchaouen, an essential stop on a Morocco 8 Day Itinerary.
Main gate of the Royal Palace in Fes, a highlight of the Morocco in 8 Days tour
Camel caravan crossing the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga during the 8 day Morocco itinerary
Traditional Berber desert tent featured in the 8 days in Morocco itinerary
Berber tent in the Moroccan Sahara, part of the 8 days Morocco itinerary experience

Contact Us

Map of the tour 8 Day Itinerary Morocco

8 Day Itinerary Morocco Cost Breakdown

The price for your 8 day itinerary in Morocco depends on several factors, including hotel selections, group size, and travel dates. To get an accurate quote that fits your budget, contact us directly. Our team will customize a trip based on your preferences while keeping costs in check.

For exact pricing details, reach out today. We’ll help you plan an unforgettable 8 day Morocco journey at the right price.

Travel Notes

The 8 Day Itinerary Morocco outlined here serves as a flexible starting point for your journey from Casablanca. Adjust the schedule to match your travel style, whether that means adding extra days or focusing on specific destinations. Those who want more time in Morocco’s vibrant cities or prefer venturing beyond popular routes can tailor this plan for a trip that suits them best.

We also offer longer itineraries, including 10 DAY MOROCCO ITINERARY, and morocco 12 day itinerary options, as well as a morocco 2 week itinerary route. These extended trips allow for a slower pace, deeper cultural connections, and visits to lesser-known locations. History enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking authentic encounters will find these expanded journeys rewarding.

For travelers with limited time, we provide condensed versions of the Morocco itinerary, including morocco 5 day itinerary, and 7 days in morocco itinerary routes.

When booking, let us know about any dietary needs, such as vegetarian or vegan preferences. We’ll arrange meals that align with your requirements.

If you’re interested in adventure, consider adding quad biking or buggy driving in the Erg Chebbi Dunes. Your guide can organize this activity during the tour.

Prefer not to ride a camel to the desert camp? A 4×4 vehicle transfer is available at no additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an 8-day trip enough for Morocco?

An 8-day itinerary in Morocco provides a well-rounded experience, allowing you to visit major cities, cultural landmarks, and natural attractions.

What’s the ideal trip length for Morocco?

For a deeper exploration, plan for 8 to 14 days. This gives you enough time to experience Morocco’s diverse landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant culture without feeling rushed.

When is the best time to visit Morocco?

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer mild weather, making them the best seasons for travel. These months provide ideal conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

What vehicles are used during the tours?

We prioritize comfort with reliable transportation options. Depending on group size, we use vehicles like the Toyota Prado Land Cruiser TX, Ford Tourneo Custom, or Mercedes Benz Sprinter minibus for larger groups.

How far in advance should I book?

Booking early is recommended to secure your preferred dates and avoid last-minute availability issues.

What are the payment options?

A small deposit is required to confirm your booking, payable via PayPal, bank transfer, or Wise. The remaining balance is due in cash on the first day of your tour. You can pay in euros, US dollars, or the equivalent in Moroccan dirhams.