12 Days Grand Morocco Tour from Marrakech
Tour Type
- Private tour for any group size
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Overview
The 12 Days Grand Morocco Tour starting in the colorful Red City is the ultimate plan that can be used to visit Morocco. In fact, this is the path that provides the ultimate experience by linking the High Atlas Mountains, silent Sahara, old Imperial Cities of Fes and Meknes, and the peaceful Atlantic Coast. As a Moroccan leader in the industry with respect to tours, we are confident that this guide will be carefully designed and with the Knowledge and personal experience that guarantees your search ends with us.
Meet the Expert
This is an article by Said Ait Elkaid of the Morocco Desert Tours, the Moroccan Travel Agency. With more than 20 years of Experience in personally designing and leading each detail of the 12 Days Grand Morocco Tour route of Marrakech, Said has the necessary informed knowledge about this subject. The fact that he is also well aware of the coast, Imperial Cities, and the Sahara also guarantee that this guide is the source of the authoritative, inside information that must be considered when making the Trips In Morocco of a lifetime.
The Critical Highlights of the 12 Days Grand Morocco Tour from Marrakech
- Experience the authentic, vibrant souks of deep Marrakech.
- Ride a camel deep into the golden Erg Chebbi massive dunes.
- Spend a magical night under infinite Sahara Desert stars.
- Cross the magnificent, soaring High Atlas Mountains passes.
- Immerse yourself in the ancient, intense Fes el-Bali Medina.
- Discover the charming, blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen.
- See the stunning, serene coastal ramparts of Essaouira.
- Walk the ancient, UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou.
The Grand Itinerary: Your 12 Days Grand Morocco Tour from Marrakech
This itinerary is the final Morocco 12 day itinerary, which will provide an unprecedented mix of culture and adventure, resulting in a uniquely different experience.
Discover the magic of this kingdom with our best tours:6-days-tour-from-marrakech , 10-days-tour-from-casablanca and 12-days-in-morocco.
Day 1: Welcome to Marrakech and Red City Tour
Your 12 Days Grand Morocco Marrakech desert tours is starting as soon as you arrive. To start with, our private driver greets you and drives you comfortably to your traditional and comfortable riad in the proximity of the historic Medina.
Then you are free in the afternoon to relax or go sightseeing in your immediate environment but you simply cannot fail to go to Djemaa el-Fna at sunset. The result is that, this mythical square is turned into an outdoor buffet, music, and show, having a vibrant feel on your adventure.
Day 2: Marrakech Guided Cultural Exploration
Today is dedicated to exploring the Red City’s historical and cultural treasures. To begin with, an expert local guide leads you through the winding alleys on customized Marrakech desert tour.
We visit the majestic Bahia Palace and the serene Saadian Tombs. Afterwards, we seek the tranquility of the Majorelle Garden and the nearby Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Finally, this essential day of Marrakech Tours provides you with a rich understanding of the city before you head into the wilderness.
Day 3: Marrakech to Dades Valley—Crossing the Tizi n’Tichka
You embark on your great trip to the desert and Imperial Cities to-day. We first part with Marrakech and climb the magnificent High Atlas Mountains on an intensive Atlas Mountains Tour.
We pass and cross the most popular Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass, which has a height of 2,260 meters. Travel: I will not forget how much colder and colder it was in up there, with the great sweeps of the deep gorges and valleys below us.
We have an Atlas Mountains Day Trip From Marrakech where we would visit the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah. Remarkably, this fortified village of UNESCO world heritage is very attractive with breathtaking views and rich history. At last we are staying in the dramatic Dades Valley, and this is the end of the third day of your 12 Days Grand Morocco Tour of Marrakech.
Day 4: Dades Valley to Merzouga Desert (Erg Chebbi)
We are today immersed in the geology of Morocco, then to the gorgeous desert. We then venture out to the vast Todra Gorges and, first of all, we walk between the towering canyon walls on a powerful footing.
Then we proceed on the old caravan roads, through Erfoud. That is why the expectations are growing all day long before this moment of the Morocco Desert Tour.
Later on in the afternoon, we reach Merzouga and our group of camel train. As such, the picturesque journey into the magnificent Dunes of Erg Chebbi starts and we get to your place of luxury Berber camp, which is awaiting the night of your 12 Days Grand Morocco Tour of Marrakech.
Day 5: Trip to the Oases and Saharan Culture
The day begins with a non-compulsory, yet vital, sunrise hike over a dune, a real highlight of any a Moroccan Desert Trips adventure. Then we have breakfast in the camp.
We discover the surroundings of the dunes later on with a 4×4. Importantly, we also visit the village of Khamlia where one can listen to the amazing spiritual music, Gnawa, and this way, links you to the unique culture of the desert.
Alternatively, one can sandboard or just rest in the camp. During this special desert day, you get to encounter the silence of Saharas in great depth which is part of your 12 Days Grand Tour of Morocco starting at Marrakech.
Day 6: Merzouga to Fes—Across the Middle Atlas
Today is a long beautiful transition day, which transports you out of the desert and the old Imperial City of Fes. First we commence our scenic drive north.
We pass through the dramatic Valley of the Ziz that is characterized by giant palm groves and up to the cooler climate of the Middle Atlas Mountains. This is followed by a drive through cedar trees around Ifrane.
During our stay, we pay a visit to the wild Barbary Macaques which dwell among the trees and provide a nice wildlife experience. And at last we reach Fes and you get into your real Riad, where the first part of your 12 Days Grand Morocco tour of Marrakech ends.
Day 7: Full Day Guided Exploration of Fes
The center of Moroccan culture and intelligentia is Fes el-Bali. As such, a professional local guide picks you up to negotiate the highly medieval and mazy medina.
We also visit the Chouara Tannery which is a well-known place, and the magnificent Al Quaraouiyine University which is believed to be the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Moreover, your guide also tells about the historical significance of the quarters of the artisans and their artisanal skills.
This exploratory trip of Fes will attest to the fact that the 12 Days Grand Morocco Tour of Marrakech would be a complete adventure with only a meticulous process of the Morocco Custom Tours.
Day 8: Fes to Chefchaouen -The Blue Pearl
Today we are driving northwards towards the silent blue beauty of the Rif Mountains. We begin, first, at the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO site that demonstrates the rich history of Morocco.
We then hasten to the Imperial City of Meknes, a key landmark in the city being the Bab Mansour gate. Then we proceed with the journey via the beautiful Rif Mountains, and in the afternoon we reach the beautiful blue city of Chefchaouen.
This last Imperial city visit is the peaceful and serene contrast to the bustle of Fes and Marrakech, the best possible conclusion to the historical aspect of your 12 Days Grand Morocco Tour of Marrakech.
Day 9: Chefchaouen to Rabat & Casablanca
Today we go to the seashore and the new capital. First, spend one more morning in the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen and perhaps have one last picture taken at the Spanish Mosque perspective.
We then proceed southwards to the administrative capital of Rabat. During our visit, we tour the great Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the ancient Kasbah of the Udayas.
Then we take the motor trip to Casablanca, get off at your hotel. This is an effective travel day that makes you visit both the northern capitals on your ultimate 12 Days Grand Morocco Tour around Marrakech.
Day 10: Casablanca to Essaouira- Atlantica Coastal Getaway
Grand Morocco Tour 12 Days Tour Marrakech to the west. First, we go to the blazing Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca and marvel at its gigantic size and location on the sea.
We would then proceed Southwards along the Atlantic Coast to the lovely white and blue seaside town of Essaouira. As soon as you get there you will taste the powerful and invigorating breeze of the sea.
We pass over the old ramparts, the old fishing port and the bustling Skala du Port. This is a wonderful and peaceful diversion between the bustle of the cities and the desert.
Day 11: Essaouira Relaxation & Coastal Drive
Spend a free relaxing morning in Essaouira. You may prefer walking along the beach, visiting the art galleries around, or savor the fresh seafood in the port.
During the afternoon, we slowly drive back to Marrakech. During our visit we pay a visit to the famous landmark of goats climbing the Argan trees where we take a unique photo opportunity.
It is late afternoon when we get back to Marrakech. As such, you get to have a final celebratory dinner in the city, as you contemplate over your awesome 12 Days Grand Morocco Tour of Marrakech.
Day 12: Marrakech Departure
This is the end of your 12 Days Grand Morocco Tour of Marrakech. Have a farewell breakfast at your Riad.
Then, your personal car will give you a comfortable ride to the Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) to take off to an international destination. At the end, you come out of Morocco with the most amazing memories of its culture, its history and its scenery in the most memorable Luxury Trip To Morocco.
Customization & Luxury Trip To Morocco Options
This extensive itinerary is the optimal foundation for a comprehensive adventure, but we easily tailor every detail.
- Luxury Trip To Morocco: We can upgrade all accommodations to the finest Relais & Châteaux properties, consequently ensuring a premium experience throughout your Morocco 12 day itinerary.
- Morocco Custom Tours: Travelers often extend their stay in Essaouira or add a dedicated Atlas Mountains Day Trip From Marrakech for more intense trekking before departing.
- Morocco All Inclusive Packages: Choose to upgrade to a package that covers all meals and site entrance fees, therefore allowing you to travel without worrying about daily budgeting.
Included and Excluded (Strict 5-Word Limit)
Your Tour Price Includes:
- Private A/C transport
- Expert driver/guide
- 11 nights accommodation
- Daily half-board meals
- Camel trek experience
Your Tour Price Excludes:
- Flights and insurance
- Lunches and drinks
- Site entrance fees
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal purchases
Creative FAQs About the 12 Days Grand Morocco Tour from Marrakech
Does this Desert Tour Morocco visit famous film studios?
O, yes, the road goes over Ouarzazate, with its film studios, so you see the outside.
Would older travelers like this Luxury Trip To Morocco?
Yes, it is a comfortable tour as the speed of the tour is well controlled hence, appropriate to all ages.
Is this grand tour day outsourced to Marrakech Day Trips hiking?
Yes, it is possible to fit Marrakech Day Trips hiking in the itinerary due to the flexibility of the last days, which is why it will fit an Imlil hike.
How comfortable is the accommodation in this Best Morocco Tours adventure?
The quality of accommodation is high as we make use of Riads and luxury camps of high rating hence making it the Best Morocco Tours experience.
What is the duration of time we spend in the blue streets of Chefchaouen?
You will have sufficient time in Chefchaouen since we spend one entire afternoon and morning, hence, giving you enough time to explore fully.
Would it be possible to skip a visit of the city in Casablanca?
Yes, we may afford not to visit the city of Casablanca since we are the experts in Morocco Custom Tours, and we always adapt the schedule.
Tour Plan
Day 1: Pick up from Airport / Casablanca
Your 10 days tour from Casablanca will start as you arrive at Casablanca Airport, our driver/guide will meet you and picks you up from Airport to the hotel to start enjoying Moroccan tour detecting the energy of Casablanca. If your arrival is in the morning, the tour starts with a visit of the Hassan II Mosque, which is a piece of art of Moroccan architecture and stands on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean.
In the later part of the afternoon, a walk through the Ain Diab Beach is very relaxing, allowing the visitor to be embracing the seaside perspective of Casablanca. As for the visitors who are going to arrive in the afternoon, the visit of the mosque and the beach are set for the next day for you not to lose on those sightseeing before continuing the trip to Rabat. Spend some of your time in Casablanca for a comfortable night’s stay before proceeding to the next part of the Moroccan tour.
Day 2: Casablanca → Rabat → Chefchaouen
For the second day of your Morocco itinerary 10 days, After taking the breakfast, organize for a road trip from Rabat to Chefchaouen passing through different terrains and other places of interest. Start with a brief tour of Rabat; tour starts from the royal palace which gives a sneak view of the Moroccan Palace Arrest and the importance of the Moroccan King. Precede with your discovery to the wonderful Kasbah des Oudayas, which majestically overlooks the Atlantic Ocean giving you a view of the ocean and a taste of Morocco historical and cultural past. Next is a stop at the Hassan Tower –a minaret with the uncompleted towering glory of the 12th century. Starting from Rabat travel through the farming land of Knitra and El Ghareb with beautiful mountainaneous views of cedar, oak and almond trees. Take a break in Ouazzane to wonder the numerous and significant features of the country’s countryside before getting to Chefchaouen, a city visitors know as the “Blue City“.
Furthermore, take a fascinating stroll in the medina where out of Hammam square local craftsmen offer souvenirs, woven mats, and some piquant sweets. Savour the goat’s cheese that is produced by shepherds from the surrounding area and is famous all over Chefchaouen. The Kasbah is a cultural institution which contains an ethnographic display, and is also possible seating for a tasty dinner viewing the picturesque district of this peaceful city. The night stay in Chefchaouen is guaranteed to be peaceful due to the warm reception by the people and stunning views.
Day 3: Chefchaouen → Volubilis → Meknes → Fes
After breakfast, Descend from the hills and travel south through the centre of the peninsula towards
the World Heritage site of Volubilis. The remains of this Roman city make an undeniably impressive
sight as they come into view on the edge of a long, high plateau. Take a tour around the arches,
basilicas, and superb mosaics along the Documents Maximums, many of which remain intact The
reward for walking in the sun lies .your next stop at Meknes city visit the massive ramparts and king
mouly ismael mosque and stables built to accommodate 12 000 horses and bab mansour (very old gate
) , continue to fes for overnight .
Note : Meknes is not sure you will visit it because all attractions are close at the moment for
constrictions ,but it depend on the date you take the tour if its open again or not yet.
Day 4: Guided Tour of Fes
With our professional guide you’ll have a wonderful day , he will take you to the most tourist places in
Fes city , there is many historical sites to explore ; such as “Karaouine university” (the acient one in
the wolrd) and “Medrassa bouanania”, souk , panoramic view on “ Idriss 2 corner” , bab boujloud ; the
UNESCO site of world culture , acient Fes fences ,Attarin school , Norte tower ,Annajarin, dar bathaa,
leather tanners , and ceramic factory, in addition to visit the royal palace ,and the Jewish quarter (el
mellah) , during the visit of the city you’ll have a lunch time in local restaurant , with our guide you’ll
never forget this tour , then after you finish your tour, return to the hotel /riad.
Day 5: Fes → Ifrane → Midelt → Ziz Valley → Erfoud → Merzouga
This day we will meet different colors of the kingdom by leaving the old Moroccan city of Fes. We
will pass through the most modern and clean city in the country Ifran. This Berber name of Ifran
means caves and it is nicknamed in Morocco as a little Switzerland since it is a very green town and is
a ski resort in the Middle Atlas region of Morocco because of its high altitude at 1665 meters. Ifran is
very known as well by The Brotherhood private university, established in 1997 by the king of
Morocco Hassan II and the king of Saudi Arabia Fahd. Where all classes are taught in English, it is an
international university. Lunch will be scheduled in a Berber village called Zaida ,then to Midelt
which is situated on the foothills of the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains. From vast plateau
we start crossing up those tough mountains which are still settled by a big Berber community. The
landscapes here includes palm tree oases at Jbel Ayachi (at 3747 m) before driving down the curves
and join the pre-Saharan zone passing first by Errachidia and Erfoud, which is famous for its pottery
and the interesting fossil quarries. Fossils are a major industry in Erfoud, some 350 million years ago
the region around Erfoud was a part of the huge ocean. Heading up to the red colored sand sea dunes
of Erg Chebbi , From a vast plateau you will get impressed by the huge sand dune of Merzouga
appearing from the horizon. Camel ride enjoy a special dinner and a lifetime Night in a very nice
Desert Camp
Day 6: Sahara Desert → Rissani → Todra Valley → Todra Gorges → Dades Valley → Skoura Palm Oasis
Our first Visit today is Errisani town; where the Mausoleum of the founder of the Alaouite Dynasty of
Morocco, Moulay Ali Chrif in the 17th century. This silent town was the ancient capital of Tafilalet
and its location as a crossroads between north and south brought the city to an important status of a
former major caravan centre. Up to now Rissani remains a major commercial centre in the region, 127
km from Errisani the great canyons of Morocco Todgha Gorges are situated beyond the central high
Atlas Mountains. Here, the contrasting landscapes remind visitors of the Colorado, with its high
plateau, its gorges and great canyons, and its peaks sometimes splintered by erosion. Several peaks in
this area exceed 4000 m, with Jbel Saghro 2500 m and Jbel Mgoun at 4068 m being the highest peak
in this part of the High Atlas. The area is populated by Berbers. Here you can enjoy a hike or a walk
among those fabulous canyons,then From the great canyons of Todgha we go to reach Dades Valley
with the green colours of its Alfalfa plants, olive trees, fig trees and grapes. Continue to Skoura Palm
Oasis for avernight .
Day 7: Skoura Palm Oasis → Ouarzazate → Ait Benhaddou → High Atlas Mountains → Marrakech
We leave Skoura in the morning Getting to Ouarzazate (Hollywood of Africa, Noiselessly town, The
door of the desert), is a city situated in the middle of a bare plateau, south of the High Atlas
Mountains. It is mainly inhabited by Berbers, who constructed many of the prominent kasbahs and
building for which the area is known. One of those building is Taourirt Kasbah diverted in 17th
century (stop for pictures from outside the Kasbah ) .
Why this town is nicknamed as Hollywood of Africa? Simply because it has been noted as a film-
making location, with Morocco’s biggest studios inviting many international film companies to shoot
their movies like: Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Living Daylights (1987), The Last Temptation of
Christ (1988), The Mummy (1999), Gladiator (2000), Kingdom of Heaven (2005), Martin Scorsese’s
Kundun (1997) and Babel (2005) ,after Ouarzazate City we will drive about 30 km to reach the
fortified city of Aït Benhaddou, built in the 11th century. Once up on a time this Kasbah was the
former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh. It is situated on a hill along the Ounila River
and has some beautiful examples of Kasbahs, which unfortunately sustain damage during each
rainstorm and windstorms. Most of the town’s inhabitants now live in a more modern village at the
other side of the river; however, around five families are still living within this Kasbah.
Aït Benhaddou Kasbah has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 and several films have
been shot there, including Lawrence of Arabia (1962), Time Bandits (1981), The Jewel of the Nile
(1985), Kundun (1997), Gladiator (2000) and Alexander (2004). From this beautiful fortified house we
head west to the city of Marrakech. It is called the “Homeland of God in Berber». Some stops at Atlas
Mountains before you arrive to Marrakesh if still time and you are not tired you go for a little walk at
Jama el Fnaa squire before you arrive to your accommodation, or you check in first then go out. Night
Day 8: Marrakech City Tour
At 10 am in your Hotel/Riad the local guide set off on a morning tour of the old medina, through the
bustling souks that are the lifeblood flowing through the city. Explore tranquil courtyards filled with
the scent of orange blossom, and the many salons and chambers that make up Bahia Palace; This
splendid mansion was built in 1866 for a former slave who rose to power within the government.
Continue to the Marrakech Museum, itself a former palace, which houses a fine collection of
Moroccan art and sculpture. Stop by the Koutoubia Mosque; its famous minaret is the prototype for
others of its kind around the world, including La Giralda in Seville. Also visit Majorel garden or
secret garden and Dar Bacha Misaim Then walk back through the streets of the old medina to the
Jemaa el Fna. Have a break for one hour ,then you start the street food tour .
Day 9: Marrakech → Essaouira → Marrakech
After breakfast at 8:30 am you start the drive from Marrakech to Essaouira ,Essaouira It is a
small seaside town with fortified walls about two and a half hours from Marrakech with a
stop of 30 min for a break and to visit a local Berber ladies cooperative of Argan Oil ,to see
how they make it and have an idea about this magical tree ,and what they can make from it It,
Essaouira is a fascinating town lying on the crossroads between 2 tribes, absolutely
Moroccan, but adding its own cultural mix from further into the south of Africa, as well as
hosting a large Jewish population. is a favourite among visitors and locals alike. There are
constant sea breezes that cool it in summer and keep it temperate it in the winter. It also offers
some of the best kite-surfing in the world.
It’s beautiful beaches, fishing harbour, sea views and amazing mix of architecture, as well as a special
quality of light have given it a flourishing art scene. Any time, a stroll through the exciting medina
and souks to explore See especially the skilful wood-workers dedicated to Argan and juniper
sculpture. You can also enjoy a local specialty of delicious fresh seafood for lunch. then drive back to
Marrakech (overnight in Marrakech
Day 10: Transfer from Marrakech to Casablanca Airport
This marks the end of the 10 days Morocco itinerary where you will be transferred from Marrakech back to Casablanca Airport. This last stage is designed to help you have a trouble-free start, after saying goodbye to the beautiful scenery, active, and culturally diverse Morocco.
Check our extended Morocco Desert tour: 12 Days in Morocco Tour or this 6 Days Tour from Marrakesh to Merzouga Desert
Included
- All kind of transfers and transports according to the given itinerary, airport transfers (arrival and departure). In a modern and private vehicle.
- Accommodation for 9 Nights (standard type of hotels, very nice traditional Riad and conventional Berber tent at the camp in the desert) but we always have option to upgrade to the very luxury accommodation.
- Residential taxes for 9 Nights
- Breakfast x 9
- Dinner x 3 (1 in Fes and others in the south and desert region)
- Camel riding through one of the most magnificent deserts of Africa, the Sahara, and non- cruciform tents accommodation at the Bedouin settlements.
- Official Local guides (fluent in your luggage) for city tours in Fes and Marrakech ,also volibilis .
- Local guides for a walk and Kasbahs and attractions (desrt treeking ,Ait Benhadou Kasba ,Amridel Kasbah.
- Sightseeing by car through breathtaking terrains of mountainous regions, valleys and desert.
Excluded
- Lunches and some dinners in the cities.
- Additional leisure activities, the services and products beyond the package, and personal costs.
- Drinks accept welcoming tea everywhere and water on dinner time
- Tips for the driver and other staff
- Any other services that are not in the above-said itinerary.
