Morocco Travel Itinerary for 1 Week – Explore the Best of Morocco in 7 Days
If you are planning a 1-week trip to Morocco, and you want to make the most of your time and explore the country’s history, beautiful landscapes, and strong culture. This 7-day Morocco travel itinerary takes you from the famous city of Marrakech to the Sahara Desert, the historic city of Fez, and the blue town of Chefchaouen. Whether you are after adventure, culture, or relaxation, this plan covers it all.
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech
Your journey begins in the ‘Red City’ of Marrakech. After arriving at your hotel or riad, explore the Jemaa el-Fna square and the surrounding souks in the afternoon. Walk through the streets of the Medina, where you’ll find everything from spices to handcrafted goods.
- Activities: Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, enjoy some mint tea at a local café, and have a walk in Jemaa el-Fna.
- Dinner: Try local dishes like tajine and couscous at a traditional Moroccan restaurant.
Day 2: Explore Marrakech’s Highlights
Spend your second day in the cultural and historical landmarks of Marrakech.
- Morning: Start with a visit to the Majorelle Garden and the YSL Museum. The garden has a peaceful atmosphere, while the museum provides a snapshot into the life of Yves Saint Laurent.
- Afternoon: Visit the Bahia Palace, which is known for its intricate mosaics and beautiful courtyards. Then, visit the Saadian Tombs, a historical site.
- Evening: Head back to Jemaa el-Fna for an evening filled with street performances and delicious street food.
Day 3: From Marrakech to the Dades Valley
After breakfast, hit the road towards the Dades Valley through the High Atlas Mountains. You will stop at Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its big kasbahs.
- Drive Time: Approximately 5 hours with several stops along the way.
- Activities: Visit Aït Benhaddou and learn about its significance in Moroccan history. Continue your trip to the Dades Valley, where impressively interesting rock formations will surround you.
- Overnight: Spend your night at a local guesthouse in the Dades Valley.
Day 4: Sahara Desert Adventure
On Day 4, you will travel towards the Sahara Desert, specifically the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga town.
- Morning: Depart from the Dades Valley and pass through the Todra Gorge. Take a short walk through the gorge, surrounded by towering cliffs.
- Afternoon: Continue to Merzouga, where you will begin your camel trek into the desert. Enjoy the beauty of the Sahara as you ride across the golden dunes during the sunset.
- Evening: Arrive at a Berber desert camp and enjoy a traditional local dinner under the stars. The evening finishes with music and storytelling around a campfire and maybe a Berber dancing show.
Day 5: From the Sahara to Fez
Wake up early to see the sunrise over the Sahara Desert before returning to Merzouga. After breakfast, depart for Fez, driving through several small Berber villages and the scenic Ziz Valley.
- Drive Time: Approximately 7 hours.
- Activities: Stop at the Midelt and relax for a lunch break. Then, continue the drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains before arriving in Fez in the evening.
- Overnight: Stay at a riad in Fez.
Day 6: Explore the Ancient City of Fez
Fez is one of Morocco’s oldest cities and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its labyrinth-like Medina, it’s a city that has an old history dating back to the 8th century and an influential culture.
- Morning: Start your day by visiting the Old Medina of Fez; make sure to visit Al-Qarawiyyin University, one of the oldest operating universities in the world (Still operating today). Then, explore the Bou Inania Madrasa, an architectural masterpiece.
- Afternoon: Visit the Chouara Tannery (over 1000 years old) to see the traditional leather-making process. The sight and smell of the tannery are strong and memorable.
- Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant in the Medina of Fez.
Day 7: Day Trip to Chefchaouen
On your final day of this 7-day journey in Morocco, drive to the blue town of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains. It is known for its peaceful vibe. Chefchaouen is perfect for a relaxing end to your trip.
- Activities: walk through the blue streets of its Medina, visit the Kasbah Museum, and take plenty of photos.
- Lunch: Have a traditional meal at one of the local restaurants.
- Return to Fez: After spending the afternoon in Chefchaouen, return to Fez for your final night in Morocco.
Conclusion: Morocco Travel Itinerary For 1 Week
This 7-day itinerary allows you to explore Morocco’s culture, history, and nature. From Marrakech to the Sahara, Fez, and Chefchaouen, you’ll experience the country’s highlights.
If you have an extra day, consider visiting the Akchour Waterfalls before returning to Fez for a peaceful nature escape.
Are you interested in a visiting Morocco? Check out our 7-day private tour of Morocco for a personalized experience. And remember to explore our blogs for tips on the best places to visit, how to travel safely in Morocco, and best month to visit Morocco!
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