9-Day Private Morocco Tour : Chefchaouen, Fes, Desert & Marrakech

Your adventure begins upon arrival, where you'll be warmly greeted by your professional MTS driver-guide. Your journey kicks off with visits to some of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks.

🕌 Casablanca – Hassan II Mosque

Your first stop is the stunning Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, its minaret rises 210 meters (689 feet), making it the tallest religious structure on Earth. Visitors are welcome inside to admire its intricate tilework, marble detailing, and ornate wooden carvings.

🏛️ Rabat – The Capital City

Continue to Rabat, Morocco’s administrative capital, for a sightseeing tour of its most important historical sites:

• Hassan Tower – A 12th-century minaret and symbol of Rabat, offering a commanding view of the city.
• Mausoleum of Mohammed V – Final resting place of the late king and his sons, beautifully decorated with white marble and traditional zellij tiles.
• Kasbah of the Udayas – A picturesque fortress with blue-and-white alleys overlooking the ocean.
• Royal Palace (Dar al-Makhzen) – While entry is not permitted, you can admire its grandeur from the gates and surrounding gardens.

🏞️ Chefchaouen – Arrival in the Blue City

In the late afternoon, travel through the scenic Rif Mountains to arrive in Chefchaouen, known for its distinctive blue-painted streets. Check into your charming riad or hotel in the heart of the medina for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, explore the peaceful and photogenic town of Chefchaouen, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide.

🔷 Highlights of Chefchaouen:

• The Blue Medina – Wander the maze-like blue streets filled with artisan shops, colorful doors, and flower-adorned windowsills.
• The Kasbah Museum – A 15th-century fortress with a small museum and stunning rooftop views of the town and mountains.
• Outa El Hammam Square – The lively heart of the medina, perfect for people-watching with mint tea in hand.
• Ras El Ma Spring – A peaceful natural spring at the edge of the medina, popular with locals.
• Spanish Mosque Hike – A short trail leads to panoramic views of the city, especially magical at sunset.
• The Rif Mountains – Optional hikes through the surrounding hills for fresh air and nature immersion.

🏛️ Volubilis – Roman Heritage Site

On the way to Fes, stop at Volubilis, Morocco’s most famous Roman archaeological site. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features remarkably preserved mosaics, temples, arches, and ancient villas that date back to the 3rd century BC. A must-see for history lovers.

🕌 Arrival in Fes

Arrive in the ancient city of Fes in the evening. Check into your accommodation and prepare for a deep dive into Moroccan history and culture the next day.

Today, explore Fes, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco, with a certified local guide.

🔹 Highlights of Fes:

• Fes el-Bali (Old Medina) – A UNESCO World Heritage site, the ancient medina is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, traditional souks, and hidden gems.
  • Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque & University – Founded in 859 AD, it's the world’s oldest existing educational institution.
  • Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate) – The iconic gateway to the medina, known for its ornate blue and green tiles.
  • Chouara Tannery – Watch the centuries-old leather dyeing process from rooftop viewpoints.
  • Bou Inania Madrasa & Attarine Madrasa – Stunning examples of Islamic architecture with exquisite tilework and carved cedar wood.
• Fes Jdid (New Fes) – Home to:
  • Royal Palace (Dar al-Makhzen) – Admire its golden gates and zellij tilework.
  • Mellah (Jewish Quarter) – A historic area with synagogues and distinct architecture.
• Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts – Discover Morocco's woodcraft heritage in a beautifully restored funduq.
• Fes Pottery Cooperative – Witness skilled artisans shaping and decorating traditional ceramics.

🛏 Overnight in Fes.

Today’s journey takes you through Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from alpine forests to desert dunes.

🚗 En Route Highlights:

• Ifrane – Known as the "Switzerland of Morocco" for its European-style architecture, clean streets, and cedar forests.
• Azrou Cedar Forest – Home to Barbary macaques and ancient cedar trees.
• Ziz Valley – A lush palm oasis framed by red rock cliffs, perfect for scenic photo stops.

Continue through Errachidia and Erfoud, gateways to the Sahara, known for fossils and date production.

🐪 Camel Ride & Desert Camp:

At sunset, embark on a camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, arriving at your luxury desert camp.

• Watch the sunset from the top of the dunes.
• Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars.
• Listen to live Berber music around a campfire.

🛏 Overnight in a luxury tented camp, fully equipped for comfort and authentic ambiance.

Begin your day with sandboarding or a sunrise walk over the dunes.

🚙 4x4 Sahara Excursion:

• Khamlia Village – Home of Gnaoua musicians; enjoy a live performance of spiritual African rhythms.
• Nomadic Berber Families – Visit real desert nomads living in traditional tents. Learn about their lifestyle, culture, and resilience.
• Black Desert & Fossil Sites – Explore dramatic volcanic landscapes and ancient fossils.

🛏 Return to your luxury desert camp for a second night under the stars.

Depart the Sahara and head toward the High Atlas Mountains.

🌄 Route Highlights:

• Todra Gorge – Towering canyon walls rising up to 300 meters, ideal for walking or climbing along the riverbed.
• Tinghir Oasis – A lush valley of date palms and mud-brick kasbahs.
• Monkey Fingers Rock Formation – Unique cliffs shaped like fingers, a perfect photo stop in Dades Valley.

🛏 Overnight in a charming guesthouse or kasbah in Boumalne Dades.

Travel through one of Morocco’s most scenic regions.

🌸 Rose Valley:

• Stop in Kalaa M’Gouna, famous for its Damask roses.
• Visit local cooperatives producing rosewater, oils, and cosmetics.
• If traveling in May, experience the annual Rose Festival.

🎬 Ouarzazate & Aït Ben Haddou:

• Ouarzazate – Known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” home to Atlas Studios and famous kasbahs.
• Aït Ben Haddou – A stunning, UNESCO-listed ksar that has appeared in films like Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia.

🏞️ Tizi n’Tichka Pass:

• Cross the highest road pass in North Africa (2,260 m), offering panoramic views of the High Atlas Mountains.

🛏 Arrive in Marrakech in the evening. Overnight in a traditional riad or hotel.

Discover the rich history and vibrant energy of the Red City with a local guide.

🌟 Highlights of Marrakech:

• Koutoubia Mosque – Iconic minaret and city landmark.
• Bahia Palace – A 19th-century masterpiece with colorful zellij and lush gardens.
• Ben Youssef Madrasa – One of the most beautiful Islamic schools in North Africa (check if open).
• Saadian Tombs – Royal tombs rediscovered in the 20th century.
• Jemaa el-Fnaa – The famous square filled with snake charmers, storytellers, and food vendors.
• Souks of Marrakech – Discover artisan stalls selling leather goods, spices, carpets, and lanterns.

🌿 Optional Visit:

• Majorelle Garden & Berber Museum – A peaceful oasis created by painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent.

🛏 Enjoy your last night in Marrakech.

Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred from Marrakech to Casablanca Airport. Take in the final glimpses of Morocco as your journey comes to a close.

Thank you for traveling with MTS. Safe flight and see you again in Morocco!