7 Day Morocco Itinerary

Marrakech – High Atlas – Aït Ben Haddou – Sahara Desert – Fes – Chefchaouen

Tour Overview

This comprehensive 7-day Morocco itinerary takes you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Morocco, experiencing the country's most iconic destinations, rich history, and diverse landscapes. From the vibrant imperial cities to the breathtaking Sahara Desert, from the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen to the oldest university in the world in Fes, this journey combines culture, nature, history, and authentic local experiences guided by expert local professionals.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Morocco – Welcome to Marrakech

Your 7-day Morocco itinerary begins with your arrival at either Marrakech Menara Airport or Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, depending on your flight schedule.

If you land in Casablanca, Morocco's largest city and economic center, we will welcome you and provide a comfortable private transfer to Marrakech. The drive takes about 3 hours, offering a first glimpse of Morocco's changing landscapes. Casablanca itself has a modern history shaped by French influence, and it is home to the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, standing proudly over the Atlantic Ocean.

If you arrive directly in Marrakech, known as the "Red City," your transfer to your hotel or traditional riad will take around 15 minutes.

After check-in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at a relaxed pace. You may choose to rest after your journey or step out to explore the nearby Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 11th century, when Marrakech was founded by the Almoravid dynasty. As you walk through its narrow streets, you'll feel the energy of the city, with local shops, historic walls, and the sounds of daily life all around you.

This first day is designed to be easy and flexible, allowing you to settle in and begin experiencing the unique atmosphere that makes Marrakech one of Morocco's most fascinating cities.

Overnight: Comfortable Hotel/Riad

Day 2: Guided Tour of Marrakech – History, Culture & Local Life

On the second day of your week in Morocco, enjoy a guided tour of Marrakech, a city rich in history and traditions that date back nearly 1,000 years.

Your day begins with a visit to the beautiful Bahia Palace, a masterpiece from the late 19th century built for a powerful vizier. The palace is famous for its elegant courtyards, peaceful gardens, carved wood ceilings, and colorful tile work that reflect the finest Moroccan craftsmanship.

Next, you will explore the Saadian Tombs, hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1917. This historic site dates back to the 16th century and offers a fascinating look into Morocco's royal past, with finely decorated mausoleums honoring members of the Saadian dynasty.

Continue to the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, the largest and most famous mosque in Marrakech. Its impressive 12th-century minaret stands as a symbol of the city and can be seen from miles away. While non-Muslims cannot enter, your guide will explain its history and importance in Moroccan Islamic architecture.

From there, step into the energy of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the beating heart of the old city and a UNESCO-listed cultural space. During the day, you'll find snake charmers, storytellers, musicians, and local vendors, offering a true taste of everyday life in Marrakech.

After lunch, head to the peaceful Majorelle Garden, located in the modern Gueliz district. Created by French artist Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent, this garden is known for its bold blue colors, exotic plants, and calm atmosphere—a perfect break from the busy Medina.

At the end of the day, return to your hotel or riad to relax, or choose to head back out in the evening to explore Marrakech on your own, when the city comes alive with lights, music, and local flavors.

Overnight: Riad Bahia Salam or similar

Day 3: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Aït Ben Haddou – Dades Valley

After breakfast at your riad, we begin a beautiful drive through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the famous Tizi N'Tichka Pass at 2,260 meters (7,415 feet) above sea level. This mountain road connects Marrakech with southern Morocco and offers some of the most stunning scenery in the country.

Along the way, you'll see traditional Berber villages built into the hillsides, where local families have lived for generations, farming the land and herding livestock. We'll make stops for photos and a coffee break, giving you time to enjoy the fresh mountain air and wide-open views.

Around midday, we arrive at Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved kasbahs in Morocco. This ancient fortified village dates back to the 17th century and once served as an important stop on old caravan trade routes between the Sahara and Marrakech. Today, it's world-famous as a filming location for movies and TV shows such as Gladiator, Indiana Jones, and Game of Thrones. A guided walk through the village brings its history and stories to life.

We then continue to Ouarzazate, often called the "Hollywood of Africa." This desert city became a major film hub thanks to its dramatic landscapes and clear skies. You may choose to visit the Atlas Film Studios, where many international films were made, or continue directly on the journey.

In the afternoon, we travel through the scenic Valley of Roses and the town of Kalaat M'Gouna, famous for its rose harvest and annual Rose Festival held each spring. As the landscape changes, we arrive in the Dades Valley, known for its dramatic rock formations and green riverbanks.

You'll check in to your hotel, enjoy a relaxing evening, and end the day with dinner and an overnight stay in the peaceful surroundings of the Dades Valley.

Overnight: Riad Paradise Dades or similar
Meals: Dinner included

Day 4: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga Desert (Sahara)

After breakfast at your hotel, we continue our journey through the beautiful Dades Valley, a region shaped by time and nature. As we drive along the valley, you'll enjoy wide views of the dramatic Dades Gorges, carved by the river over thousands of years. You'll also see the famous "Monkey Fingers" rock formations, natural shapes formed by erosion that have become one of the area's most photographed sights.

Our next stop is the green Tinghir Oasis, a striking contrast to the surrounding desert landscapes. Here, you'll have time to take a relaxed walk through the impressive Todra Gorge, where sheer limestone cliffs rise to 1,000 feet on either side. For centuries, this canyon has been an important passage for local Berber communities, and today it remains a place of incredible natural beauty and calm.

In the afternoon, we continue south toward the Merzouga Desert, gateway to the Sahara. Upon arrival, a camel caravan will be waiting to take you across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes. The ride is perfectly timed for sunset, when the dunes glow in shades of gold and orange, creating a truly unforgettable moment.

Once you reach your luxury desert camp, you'll be welcomed with traditional Moroccan hospitality. Enjoy a delicious Berber-style dinner, followed by an evening of local music and drumming around the campfire. As the night settles in, take time to admire the clear desert sky, filled with stars.

You will spend the night in a luxury Sahara desert camp, surrounded by silence, dunes, and the timeless beauty of the desert—an experience that many travelers consider the highlight of their Morocco journey.

Overnight: Sahara Eden Camp or similar
Meals: Dinner included

Day 5: Merzouga Desert – Ziz Valley – Middle Atlas – Fes

Begin your day early by watching a peaceful sunrise over the Sahara Desert, as the soft morning light slowly spreads across the dunes. After breakfast at your desert camp, you'll return to Merzouga village either by camel for a final desert experience or by 4×4 vehicle, depending on your preference.

Once in Merzouga, your driver will meet you and begin the journey north toward Fes, one of Morocco's oldest and most historic cities. Along the way, you'll pass through the beautiful Ziz Valley, an important oasis region known for its endless palm groves and traditional villages. This valley has supported life for centuries and was once a key route for desert traders.

The drive continues through the Middle Atlas Mountains, offering a cooler climate and changing landscapes. We'll stop at a cedar forest, home to the famous Barbary macaques, where you may have the chance to see these wild monkeys in their natural habitat.

Next, enjoy a short stop in Ifrane, often called the "Switzerland of Morocco" because of its clean streets, alpine-style buildings, and mountain setting. Built during the French colonial period, Ifrane feels very different from the traditional Moroccan cities you've seen so far.

By late afternoon, you'll arrive in Fes and check into your riad located in the heart of the ancient Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 9th century. The rest of the evening is yours to relax, unwind, and enjoy the timeless atmosphere of this remarkable imperial city.

Overnight: Riad Mazar or similar
Meals: Breakfast included

Day 6: Guided Tour of Fes – Drive to Chefchaouen

Start your day with a tasty breakfast at your riad, getting ready for a full day of discovery. Your local guide and driver will meet you for a guided tour of Fes, Morocco's cultural and spiritual capital, founded in the 9th century and home to one of the world's oldest universities.

As you explore the Fes Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll walk through narrow, winding alleys filled with daily life. Along the way, you'll discover hidden courtyards, traditional souks, and impressive examples of Islamic architecture, including madrasas, fountains, and historic mosques. You'll also learn about Al Quaraouiyine University, established in 859 AD, known as the oldest continuously operating university in the world.

For lunch, enjoy an authentic Moroccan meal at a local restaurant inside the Medina, where you can relax and take in the lively atmosphere of this historic city.

In the afternoon, we depart for a scenic drive north to Chefchaouen, known as the "Blue Pearl of Morocco." Nestled in the Rif Mountains, this charming town is famous for its calm pace and blue-painted streets, a tradition influenced by history and local culture.

Upon arrival, you'll check into your riad in the heart of Chefchaouen. The evening is yours to unwind, stroll through the peaceful blue lanes, and enjoy the quiet beauty of this unique mountain town. Surrounded by soft blue tones and relaxed vibes, Chefchaouen is the perfect place to slow down and end the day in comfort.

Overnight: Dar Echchaouen or similar
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included

Day 7: Chefchaouen – Departure

Your final day begins with a relaxing breakfast at your riad before heading out to enjoy the charming blue streets of Chefchaouen. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, this peaceful town is known for its calm atmosphere, artistic details, and beautifully painted alleys. Take your time wandering through the Medina, browsing local markets filled with handmade crafts, woven textiles, and natural products unique to the region.

Chefchaouen has long been a place of rest and reflection, and its slow pace makes it perfect for a final, easy morning. Stop at a local café to enjoy a traditional Moroccan mint tea, soak in the scenery, and capture a few last photos of this unforgettable town.

In the afternoon, we begin the journey to Casablanca, depending on your departure plans. Whether you are catching a flight or staying an extra night, this marks the end of your unforgettable 7-day Morocco itinerary.

For added flexibility, your 1-week Morocco tour can also end in Tangier, Fes, or Marrakech, depending on your travel needs. As your journey comes to a close, you'll leave Morocco with lasting memories of its history, landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Meals: Breakfast included

What's Included

• Private airport transfer on your arrival day
• Private air-conditioned car with a driver/guide
• Local guide to explore Marrakech
• 6 nights of accommodation, including breakfast each day
• Dinner at your hotel in Dades Valley and at your desert camp
• Guided tour of the historic Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah
• Camel trek across the Sahara Desert
• Opportunity to try sandboarding on the dunes
• Local guide to explore Fes
• Drop-off at your hotel or the airport at the end of your journey

What's Not Included

• Lunches
• Dinners in Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen
• Beverages
• Optional entrance fee to Atlas Studios
• Admission fees to landmarks in Marrakech and Fes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the best time to visit Morocco?

A: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather and are ideal for traveling throughout the country.

Q2: Is this itinerary suitable for families?

A: Yes, this itinerary is family-friendly. Camel treks can be adjusted, and alternative activities are available upon request.

Q3: How much walking is involved?

A: The tour includes moderate walking, particularly in the medinas of Marrakech and Fes. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Q4: What is included in the accommodations?

A: All accommodations include breakfast daily. Dinners are included in the Dades Valley and Sahara Desert camp; other dinners are at your discretion.

Q5: Can I extend this tour?

A: Yes, this itinerary can be extended. Popular extensions include additional time in the Sahara, the coastal towns of Essaouira or Taghazout, or extra days in Marrakech.

Q6: What should I pack?

A: Pack comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and light layers for varying climates from mountains to desert to coastal areas.

Q7: Is personal travel insurance required?

A: While not included, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical expenses, cancellations, and unexpected events.

Q8: Can the itinerary be customized?

A: Yes. LGBTQ Morocco Tours can adjust routes, activities, and accommodations based on your preferences and interests.

Why Book with LGBTQ Morocco Tours

LGBTQ Morocco Tours specializes in creating authentic, personalized experiences that reveal the true essence of Morocco. Our 7-day itinerary expertly balances iconic landmarks with immersive cultural experiences, guided by experienced local professionals who are passionate about sharing their country's rich heritage. We prioritize your comfort, safety, and satisfaction while ensuring every moment is meaningful and memorable. From the bustling medinas to the serene desert nights, from mountain peaks to historic cities, LGBTQ Morocco Tours delivers an unforgettable journey through one of North Africa's most captivating destinations.