10 Days Fes and Authentic Morocco Trip
🐪 10‑Day Authentic Morocco: Fès • Desert • Essaouira • Marrakech
Overview
This immersive 10‑day journey offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, historic landmarks, bustling medinas, and sweeping desert vistas. Begin in the fascinating labyrinth of Fès, trek dunes in Merzouga, relax in the Atlantic breeze of Essaouira, and unwind with shopping and heritage in vibrant Marrakech. Enjoy leisurely days to soak in Moroccan life and local crafts, all wrapped up with a seamless airport transfer on your final day.
Who it’s for: travelers craving authentic cultural immersion, relaxed shopping days, and the stark beauty of the Sahara.
Included: private 4×4 transport, hotels and desert camps, camel trek, daily breakfast and dinner, guided sightseeing.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Fès
Land at Fès–Saïss Airport and meet your guide for transfer to your centrally located riad in the Medina. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a short orientation walk. Overnight in Fès.
Day 2 – Full-Day Guided Fès
After breakfast, explore the historic Medina—home to University of Al Quaraouiyine, the world’s oldest functioning university. See the Nejjarine Fountain, tannery district, and the exterior of the Royal Palace. Tour the Jewish quarter (Mellah) and optional synagogue visit, finish with panoramic views over Fès. Overnight in riad
Day 3 – Fès → Mid‑Atlas → Merzouga Desert
Our journey heads southeast through cedar forests near Azrou (home to wild Barbary apes), then across Midelt and into Ziz Valley, with its lush palm groves. Arrive at Merzouga and enjoy mint tea upon arrival before settling in your riad
Day 4 – Merzouga Exploration & Camel Trek
Visit a Gnawa community to experience their music, stroll by the Merzouga lake (bird habitat), and explore the souk of Rissani—the historic caravan starting point. Return to Merzouga; in the afternoon embark on a camel trek into the dunes. Spend the night in a Berber-style camp under the stars with dinner included
Day 5 – Sunrise & Dades Valley via Todra Gorges
Wake early to catch a magical desert sunrise. Trek back to Merzouga by camel, then journey on to Tinghir and the dramatic Todra Gorges. After lunch, drive through the scenic Dades Valley—famous for its rock formations and “monkey toes.” Overnight in a quality hotel overlooking the valley
Day 6 – Dades Valley → Ouarzazate via Kasbahs
Breakfast and departure through the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” Stop at Kasbah Amridil in Skoura, and the rose‑producing town of Kalaat Mgouna. Arrive in Ouarzazate early evening. Overnight in Ouarzazate.
Day 7 – Aït Ben Haddou & Tizi n’Tichka Pass → Marrakech
Visit the UNESCO‐listed fortified village of Aït Ben Haddou, seen in films like Gladiator. Ascend the Tizi n’Tichka pass (~2,260 m) across the High Atlas, enjoying panoramic mountain vistas en route to Marrakech. Overnight in Jemaa El‑Fnaa Medina riad.
Day 8 – Essaouira Day Trip
Journey west to the coastal “City of Wind” Essaouira (approx. 2.5 h). Explore the medina’s blue‑washed alleys, traditional art stalls, and the port area. Visit a women’s Argan oil cooperative. Free‑time lunch in the medina, then return to Marrakech in the afternoon. Overnight in riad.
Day 9 – Free Day in Marrakech
After breakfast, enjoy your free day to delve into Marrakech’s iconic sights: Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, Ben Youssef Madrasa, and the vibrant souks. Relax in Majorelle Garden and explore Gueliz, the modern district. At night, experience the atmospheric energy of Jemaa El‑Fna Square. Overnight in riad.
Day 10 – Marrakech → Airport
A final riad breakfast before your driver transfers you to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departing flight. Tour concludes.
Why This Tour Stands Out
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Authentic Cultural Immersion: From local markets to Berber music in the desert.
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Balanced Pace: A mix of guided sightseeing and free days for independent exploration.
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Exceptional Landscapes: Mountains, desert dunes, palm oases, and coastal breezes.
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Convenience Perfected: All logistics—from transport to accommodations and meals—are handled.
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Designed for Shopkeepers and Culture Lovers: Ideal for those who wish to savor local crafts and take their time exploring.