12 Days Morocco Travel Itinerary From Fes
Overview
Pack your bags and prepare for the extraordinary! Our Morocco travel 12 days tour will submerged you in a world of souks, towering sand dunes, and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. This unique adventure blends history, culture, and nature as you explore medinas like Chefchaouen and Fes, wander through the lively souks of Marrakech, and uncover ancient ruins and Kasbahs that tell tales of centuries gone by. Trek along forgotten caravan routes, ride camels across the towering dunes of the Sahara, and unwind in the serene oasis at the base of the Todra Gorges. From the timeless charm of historic cities to the breathtaking desert landscapes, this 12-day journey captures the essence of Morocco in a way you’ll never forget.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
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01
Arrival to Fes
Welcome to the magical land of Morocco! Upon your arrival at Fes airport, your driver will be there to greet you and whisk you away to your hotel. As you make your way to your destination, your driver will give you a sneak peek of the incredible journey ahead. Spend your first night in comfort, enjoying a delicious dinner in a charming Riad or hotel, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. This is just the beginning of your Morocco travel 12 days experience, where every moment promises new wonders!
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02
Full day in Fes
Start your day with a delicious breakfast, then meet your private guide for a captivating city tour through the heart of Fes, the first imperial city of Morocco. Founded in the 9th century and home to the world’s oldest university, Fes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of history and charm. Your adventure begins with a visit to the entrance of Morocco's largest royal palace, followed by breathtaking panoramic views of the medina from the southern tower. Discover the artistry of Moroccan pottery at a local co-operative, then wander through the tanneries where you’ll see skilled artisans working with animal hides. You’ll also visit the stunning Medrassa (Koranic school), the Nejjarine fountain, the Moulay Idriss mausoleum, and the historic Karaouine Mosque University. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch in the medina, then lose yourself in its labyrinth of narrow alleys, where hundreds of merchants and craftsmen offer everything from spices to copper urns. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace, with a restful overnight stay in a charming hotel or Riad.
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03
Fes → Meknes → Volubilis → Chefchaouen
Today, your Morocco travel adventure continues as we head from Fes to Meknes, where a guided tour awaits you. Begin your exploration at the magnificent Bab Mansour, the grand 18th-century gate that marks the entrance to the imperial city of Meknes, built by Sultan Moulay Ismail. Your journey through history takes you next to the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, a small but remarkable site, before passing the entrance of the Meknes Royal Palace. The tour culminates at the impressive Heri es Souani, the vast stable and granary that once housed 12,000 horses. After a delightful Moroccan lunch, we’ll make our way to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, one of the best-preserved Roman sites in Northern Africa. Your certified local guide will transport you back in time as you wander through the ancient bathhouses, marvel at the intricate mosaics, and gaze at the towering marble pillars. The day concludes with a scenic drive to Chefchaouen, the enchanting blue city, where you’ll enjoy an overnight stay in a cozy hotel or Riad, complete with a delicious dinner. This journey through Morocco’s rich history is just one of the many unforgettable experiences you’ll have on this 12-day adventure.
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04
Chefchaouen → Tangier
On your morocco travel 12 days journey, today you’ll explore the charming town of Chefchaouen, nestled in the stunning Rif Mountains. Start your day with a walking tour through the blue-painted streets of the medina, where every corner and door is bathed in shades of brilliant blue. The town's powerful charm is evident as you wander through the cobblestone streets, feeling the magic in the air. Stop at a café terrace to admire the grand mosque with its striking octagonal minaret, inspired by the Torre de Oro in Seville, and the Andalusian architecture of the Kasbah with its serene gardens. The Kasbah's walls and towers house a fascinating ethnographic museum, and the lively souks, bustling with people in traditional attire, add to the town’s colorful atmosphere. After lunch, we’ll head north to Tangier, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Strait of Gibraltar, offering breathtaking views perfect for a photo. Explore the narrow streets, lined with doors and a blend of ancient and modern architecture. Tangier has long been a haven for artists like Matisse, Paul Bowles, and the legendary Ibn Battouta. Your day ends with a cozy overnight stay in a hotel or Riad, complete with a traditional Moroccan dinner, marking another unforgettable chapter of your morocco travel 12 days adventure.
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05
Tangier → Rabat
After a delightful breakfast, your morocco travel 12 days adventure continues as we head to Rabat, the administrative capital of Morocco. Here, you’ll explore the unfinished Hassan Tower, a 12th-century monument that stands as a testament to Morocco’s rich history. You’ll also visit the Mausoleum of Mohamed V, an impressive structure built by King Hassan II in honor of his father, the beloved father of Moroccan independence. Our next stop is the Oudaya Kasbah, a 12th-century fortress that houses a peaceful neighborhood, its narrow streets adorned with the blue and white hues reminiscent of Andalusia, just across the Strait of Gibraltar. From here, you’ll have panoramic views of the calm waters below, and the fortress gate, framed by a Moorish arch and intricate geometric designs, is simply breathtaking. The Hassan Tower dominates the skyline, visible from nearly every corner of the city. After this historical journey, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax and unwind at your Riad, with a comforting dinner to end your day in the heart of Morocco. This is just another unforgettable experience in your morocco travel 12 days exploration.
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06
Rabat → Casablanca → Marrakech
Our morocco travel 12 days adventure takes you from Rabat to Casablanca, where a fascinating sightseeing tour awaits. First, you’ll visit the breathtaking Hassan II Mosque, an architectural marvel opened in 1993. As the second largest mosque in the world after Mecca, it can hold up to 25,000 worshippers and is one of the few religious sites in Morocco open to non-Muslims. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, it’s a place of serenity and beauty. After soaking in the mosque's grandeur, we’ll drive through Casablanca’s charming residential areas before heading to the city center to explore the bustling Mohamed V Square, the historic Habous quarter, and the impressive Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral. After a delicious lunch, we’ll continue our journey to Marrakech for the night, where you’ll enjoy dinner and rest at your Riad or hotel. This is just another enriching chapter in your unforgettable morocco travel 12 days journey.
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07
Full day in Marrakech
After a delightful breakfast, your morocco travel 12 days adventure continues with a guided exploration of the city of Marrakech. You’ll discover its rich history through iconic landmarks such as the stunning 19th-century Bahia Palace, the ancient Saadian Tombs, the Koranic School of Ben Youssef, and the majestic 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque. No trip to Marrakech is complete without a visit to the famous Souks, where you’ll find everything from traditional crafts to unique gifts for family, friends, or yourself. Then, escape the hustle and bustle with a peaceful stroll through the Majorelle Gardens, an oasis of exotic plants from all corners of the globe. Your day culminates at the lively Djemaa el-Fna square, where you'll be mesmerized by storytellers, snake charmers, musicians, and acrobats. Take a moment to unwind with a refreshing drink at one of the cafes, offering stunning panoramic views across the square. After an exciting day, enjoy free time and a restful overnight stay at your Riad or hotel, ready for the next chapter of your morocco travel 12 days journey.
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08
Marrakech → Ait benhaddou Kasbah → Rose valley → Dades Gorges
After a hearty breakfast, your morocco travel 12 days adventure takes you from the city of Marrakech into the breathtaking Atlas Mountains. As you journey through this stunning landscape, you'll be captivated by the beauty of the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see, leading you to Ouarzazate – also known as "The Hollywood of Africa," where blockbuster movies like Alexander the Great, The Mummy, The Jewel of the Nile, and Kingdom of Heaven were filmed. The scenery along the way is nothing short of spectacular. A visit to the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will transport you to another time, with its ancient fortress towering over the surrounding valley. After lunch in Ouarzazate, you'll continue your journey to the enchanting Valley of Roses, famous for its annual rose harvest festival in May. As the day draws to a close, you'll rest and enjoy a delicious dinner in the serene Dades Valley, where you can reflect on the day's incredible sights, ready for the next adventure of your morocco travel 12 days journey.
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09
Dades Gorges → Tinghir → Erfoud → Merzouga → Erg Chebbi
We set off on a journey that takes us to the stunning Todra Gorges, a haven for rock climbers who come from all over the world to tackle its towering cliffs. Continuing along the ancient Bedouin trading routes, we'll pass through fortified villages, each boasting remarkable architecture that tells stories of the past. The drive towards Erfoud is one of the most scenic, with landscapes that will captivate your senses. Erfoud, a desert town built by the French, is renowned for its rich black fossil marble, with fossils carved into everything from ashtrays to washbasins. As we approach the Merzouga dunes, the mighty Sahara Desert begins to unfold before us. Here, we leave our vehicle behind and go on a camel ride into the heart of the desert to a traditional Berber camp. For a truly unforgettable experience, why not try sandboarding on the dunes? After an unforgettable day, we'll gather around a fire under the stars, enjoing the tranquility of the desert while enjoying traditional Berber drumming. This is the magic of morocco travel 12 days, where every moment is an adventure to remember.
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10
Erg Chebbi → Ziz valley → Midelt
A fresh new day in the desert greets us with a stunning sunrise and a hearty breakfast at camp. With a mix of excitement and nostalgia, we mount our camels to begin the journey back to Merzouga, leaving the tranquil dunes behind.. From there, the journey heads north through the vast desert plains toward the lush Ziz Valley. As you approach Aoufous, the landscape transforms into a ribbon of green framed by dramatic cliffs. A scenic stop offers panoramic views of the valley and its thousands of palm trees stretching along the Ziz River, perfect for photos and a short break. The drive continues through Errachidia, passing the impressive Hassan Addakhil Dam that feeds the valley's oasis. From there, you’ll ascend into the Middle Atlas Mountains, where the air grows cooler and the scenery shifts to forests and rugged peaks. After about 6 to 7 hours on the road with scenic stops, you'll reach the quiet town of Midelt by late afternoon, ready to unwind and enjoy the fresh mountain atmosphere.
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11
Midelt → Azrou→ Ifrane → Fes
A fresh mountain morning in Midelt sets the tone for a scenic journey north toward Fes. After breakfast, we begin our drive through the breathtaking Middle Atlas Mountains, where the arid landscape gives way to cedar forests, winding passes, and traditional Berber villages. As we ascend, the air grows crisp and the scenery shifts—terraced farmlands, grazing sheep, and forested hills roll past the windows, offering a peaceful contrast to the desert behind us. Along the way, we pause in Azrou, known for its cedar wood handicrafts and playful Barbary macaques, then continue to Ifrane, a picturesque mountain town often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine architecture and tidy streets. In the afternoon, we descend into the Saiss plain, arriving in the Imperial city of Fes by early evening. After check-in at a traditional Riad or comfortable hotel, enjoy dinner and rest in preparation for the cultural wonders of Fes the next day.
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12
Fes → Back to the airport
As your Morocco travel 12 days adventure comes to a close, you’ll be transferred to Fes airport for your return flight, carrying with you a wealth of stories from the Charming Arabian and Berber days and nights. From the markets to the vast desert landscapes, you’ll leave with memories that will last a lifetime, eager to share your unforgettable journey through Morocco.
This is a sample itinerary
Every trip on this site is a flexible starting point, not a fixed package. If this route doesn't quite match what you have in mind (different pace, extra days, a stop you'd rather skip) just tell us and we'll adjust it before you commit to anything.
Contact Us About This TripHighlights
- Marvel at the grandeur of the Hassan II Mosque.
- Discover the charm and history of Morocco’s administrative capital, Rabat.
- Admire the stunning architectural beauty that defines Morocco.
- Indulge in mouthwatering traditional local cuisine.
- Go on a camel ride across the vast Sahara Desert.
- Explore the city of Marrakech and its captivating medina.
- Drive through the breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains.
- Private air-conditioned 4WD vehicle or mini-van
- Experienced local English speaking guide/driver
- Overnight in Hotels, Riads, or luxury Camp
- Daily breakfasts
- Dinners in Dades Gorges -Erg Chebbi - Midelt
- Vegetarian and vegan breakfast options
- Local Guide in Marrakech -Fes - Volubilis
- Camel ride and Sandboarding in Merzouga
- Request stops and breaks during the tour
- Free time for exploration
- Airport pick-up and final drop-off
- Pick-up and drop-off: Hotel/riad transfers
- Drinks and Lunches and non-mentioned dinners
- Tips for services staff
- Monument entrance fees
- Any extra not mentioned in the itinerary
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize my Morocco travel itinerary?
Absolutely. We offer full flexibility to tailor every aspect of your adventure to match your interests and schedule perfectly. Begin designing your ideal trip with our Custom Morocco Tour Planner.
Are the desert camps comfortable?
Definitely. Our camps prioritize quality and comfort. We only offer Luxury Desert Camp featuring fully equipped private, en-suite bathroom facilities.
Are desert camp tents private?
Yes, for your peace of mind and comfort, all sleeping accommodations are individual, private tents reserved exclusively for you and your travel party.
Can I start the tour in one city and finish in another?
Certainly. We frequently facilitate multi-city itineraries, such as the popular transfer tours between Marrakech and Fes, to provide seamless connections for your onward travel plans.
How far in advance should I book my tour?
To ensure availability for your preferred dates and accommodation types, especially during peak seasons, we advise securing your booking 3 to 6+ months in advance.
How many days do you need to explore the historic medina of Fes?
To fully appreciate the vast cultural and historical wealth of Fes el-Bali, we generally suggest dedicating 1 to 2 full days to explore the medina and its fascinating artisan quarters.
Are Fes travel itineraries family-friendly?
Absolutely. The ancient medina offers unique, sensory experiences perfect for young travelers. Find tours tailored for family engagement within our Morocco Family Travel Packages.
Are guided tours in Fes available in multiple languages?
Yes, multilingual guides (English, Spanish, French, and more) are available for all our Fes Tours & Travel Packages.
What is the best time of year to travel in Morocco?
Optimal travel occurs in Spring (March–May) and Autumn (Sept–Nov), providing mild temperatures that are perfect for comfortable sightseeing and pleasant desert nights. See our Best Time to Travel Guide for detailed seasonal insights.
Not quite the right fit?
Every itinerary here is a starting point. Tell us your travel dates and interests and we'll adjust the route, pace or accommodation level to match.