13 Days From Marrakesh fairytale The trek to the desert and its history

Welcome to Morocco! Begin your tour in Marrakech and check into a traditional riad in the heart of the old city. These Moroccan homes are built around an interior courtyard, with all windows facing the garden, complete with a fountain, tables, and benches. Enjoy breakfast or a refreshing Moroccan mint tea here, away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

After a short rest, visit the city’s main landmark, Al-Koutoubia Mosque. Its name, meaning “Mosque of the Booksellers,” reflects the historic district where books were made and sold. Built in the 12th century, the mosque is renowned for its 77-meter minaret, which towers over the old city.

Next, explore the Saadian Tombs, the final resting place of members of the Saadian dynasty that ruled Morocco in the 16th–17th centuries. The tombs are masterpieces of Italian marble and intricately carved woodwork.

In the evening, discover the vibrant Jemaa el-Fna square, the main trading hub of Africa. By day, it is full of shops and stalls, but at night it comes alive with traditional musicians, acrobats, storytellers, and performers, offering a truly unforgettable cultural experience.

Day 2 : The Highest Pass In North Africa

After breakfast, set off toward the Sahara, the hottest desert on Earth. Along the way, stop at the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest pass in North Africa at 2,260 meters above sea level, where panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains await.

Continue to the ancient fortified city of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and backdrop for countless Hollywood films, including The Mummy, Gladiator, Prince of Persia, and Alexander. Once a bustling caravan hub, today only a few families remain. Explore its red clay houses and winding alleys, feeling as though you’ve stepped into the pages of an Arabian tale.

Next, travel through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, famous for its centuries-old Berber fortresses, before checking into a traditional riad for the night.

Day 3: Todgha Gorges , Berber Camp, Erg Chebbi Dunes

Continue your journey toward the Sahara Desert. In the morning, drive through the Todra Gorges, marveling at the towering cliffs, striking red canyons, and mountain rivers that nourish lush palm groves producing some of Morocco’s finest dates.

Arrive in Merzouga and settle into an authentic Berber camp in the heart of the desert, surrounded by the towering Erg Chebbi dunes, which rise over 150 meters. Take a walk along the dunes and witness a breathtaking sunset over the Sahara.

For dinner, enjoy a traditional tajine, a hearty Moroccan stew of meat and vegetables. Spend the evening around the campfire, listening to the desert’s sounds and gazing at the infinite starry sky—an unforgettable night in the heart of the Sahara.

Day 4 : Sunrise In The Desert – Camel Ride

Wake up early to climb one of the dunes and witness an unforgettable sunrise in the desert, as the soft orange light slowly transforms the sea of sand—a truly magical sight. After breakfast, embark on a camel ride across the dunes, experiencing the journey as desert inhabitants have for centuries.

For those seeking adventure, try sandboarding down the slopes of the dunes. After some rest, begin the journey back to Marrakech, stopping for lunch along the way. In the evening, arrive in the city and check into a traditional riad hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Day 5 : Marrakesh – Majorelle Garden – Bahia Palace

After breakfast, take a leisurely walk through the famous Majorelle Garden, a stunning botanical collection gathered by French artist Jacques Majorelle after he acquired the property in 1923. Today, the garden belongs to the renowned designer Yves Saint Laurent and features several small museums showcasing art and culture.

Next, visit the Bahia Palace to admire its exquisite mosaics and ceramics. Built in 1867 for the Sultan’s grand vizier, the palace was abandoned after his death in 1900 and later restored by the French colonial governor as his residence.

In the evening, enjoy a stroll through the lively Jemaa el-Fna Square, soaking in the sights, sounds, and vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech’s heart.

Day 6 : Casablanca – The Biggest Mosque In Africa

The next day, depart for Casablanca, a scenic 3-hour drive. This city gained worldwide fame thanks to the classic 1942 film Casablanca. Upon arrival, check into your hotel before visiting the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Africa, which can accommodate over 100,000 worshippers.

Day 7 : Old Capital Meknes – Roman Ruins Of Volubilis

In the morning, take a train to Meknes (approximately 3 hours). Often called the “Moroccan Versailles,” Meknes is renowned for its elegant buildings preserved from the 17th–18th centuries, when it served as the country’s capital. Explore the charming old district before continuing to Volubilis (about 1.5 hours away), the southwesternmost point of the Roman Empire. Here, discover magnificent ruins, including ancient temples, the Arch of Triumph, the forum, and aqueducts.

In the afternoon, travel to Fes (approximately 2 hours), check into your hotel, and enjoy a stroll through the old city center. Don’t miss the famous Chouara Tanneries, where craftsmen have been softening and dyeing animal skins in huge clay vats since the 11th century—a fascinating glimpse into traditional Moroccan craftsmanship.