Unforgettable Morocco Itinerary 12 Days – Explore Imperial Cities, Sahara & Marrakech

Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Arrive in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, and transfer to your hotel. Begin your 12-day Morocco itinerary with a visit to the iconic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, beautifully perched on the Atlantic coast. Stroll along the Corniche of Ain Diab, enjoy views of the ocean, and savor your first Moroccan dinner. Overnight stay in Casablanca.

Day 2: Casablanca – Rabat

After breakfast, drive to Rabat, Morocco’s royal capital. Visit the Hassan Tower, the Mohammed V Mausoleum, and the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas. Walk along the Bou Regreg River and explore the city’s historic streets. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel and enjoy Moroccan cuisine as part of your Morocco Itinerary 12 Days.

Day 3: Rabat – Chefchaouen

Journey north to Chefchaouen, the enchanting Blue City nestled in the Rif Mountains. Explore the blue-painted streets, traditional artisan shops, and local cafés. Take time for photography and experience the calm mountain atmosphere. Overnight stay in a charming riad.

Day 4: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fès

Depart Chefchaouen and stop at Volubilis, Morocco’s ancient Roman ruins, with impressive mosaics and archaeological sites. Continue to Meknes, an imperial city, to see the monumental Bab Mansour gate and lively souks. Arrive in Fès, check into your riad, and prepare for cultural exploration.

Day 5: Full Day in Fès

Spend a full day in Fès, exploring the UNESCO-listed medina. Walk through winding alleys, visit traditional tanneries, the Bou Inania Madrasa, Al Quaraouiyine Mosque, and vibrant souks. Learn about Moroccan handicrafts and enjoy local dishes, fully immersing yourself in this city’s rich history.

Day 6: Fès – Ifrane – Midelt – Merzouga

Drive through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland,” with clean streets and alpine-style houses. Visit Azrou to see wild Barbary macaques in cedar forests. Continue to Midelt for a short break, then head to Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert, for your overnight stay in a traditional Berber desert camp.

Day 7: Merzouga – Sahara Desert Adventure

Wake early for a sunrise camel trek over the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Experience desert life, visit Berber villages, and enjoy local music and cuisine in your camp. Spend the evening under the stars, capturing stunning desert photography — a highlight of your Morocco Itinerary 12 Days.

Day 8: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

Leave the desert behind and travel to Gargantas del Todra, marveling at its towering cliffs and winding river. Continue to Valle del Dades, known for its striking rock formations and palm groves. Stop at scenic viewpoints for photographs and enjoy a peaceful overnight in a valley guesthouse.

Day 9: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Aït Ben Haddou – Marrakech

Drive through the Valley of Roses, stopping at local villages and rose fields. Explore Ouarzazate, Morocco’s film-making hub, and the UNESCO-listed Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah. Cruza la Montañas del Alto Atlas via Tizi n’Tichka Pass and descend into the vibrant city of Marrakech. Overnight in a riad in the Medina.

Day 10: Marrakech – Optional Essaouira Day Trip

Optional day trip to the coastal city of Essaouira, exploring its historic medina, colorful port, and fresh seafood market. Return to Marrakech for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 11: Full Day in Marrakech

Spend the day visiting Marrakech’s highlights: Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombsy Majorelle Gardens. Stroll through the bustling souks of the Medina, experience Moroccan street food, and enjoy local artisan crafts. Evening free to relax or explore.

Day 12: Marrakech – Departure

Depending on your flight, enjoy a leisurely morning in Marrakech with optional shopping or sightseeing. Transfer to the airport, concluding your immersive Morocco Itinerary 12 Days, filled with imperial cities, desert landscapes, and unforgettable Moroccan culture.