9 Days Tour from Fes - Best Itinerary

Embark on a 9-day tour from Fes to the Sahara Desert with us and discover the wonders of Morocco through its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and exciting adventures. 

We’ll begin your 9 days desert tour in Fes, Morocco’s cultural capital. We’ll drive through stunning scenery to Chefchaouen, Morocco’s famous Blue Pearl, in the Rif Mountains. Before moving on to Tangier, we will explore its Medina here, where you can see the old Medina, visit the Kasbah, Dar el Makhzen (Sultan’s Palace), and relax at Café Hafa with sea views. Next, we’ll visit Rabat’s Oudayas Kasbah and Andalusian Gardens. 

Then, we will travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, where you’ll ride camels through the Erg Chebbi dunes before spending the night at a desert camp under the stars.

We will keep going through the amazing Todra and Dades Gorges, where the scenery changes all the time. From there, we will go to fortified kasbahs, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Aït Ben Haddou. The journey will end in Marrakech, where you can visit the bustling souks, historic palaces, and vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square.

9 Days Desert Tour from Fes Information:

  • Duration: 9 Days (morning/8 nights)
  • Departure time: 08:00 am
  • Pickoff: Fes
  • Dropoff: Fes or Marrakech (depending on your choice)
  • Languages: (English, Spanish and Italian).
  • Accommodation: Standard or luxury (depending on your choice)

Highlights of the 9 Days Fes

  • Drive through the beautiful Rif mountains.
  • Take some time to walk around the blue streets of Chefchaouen's Medina.
  • Visit the old Medina in Tangier.
  • Enjoy the view of the sea while you relax in a café.
  • Take in some sights in Rabat, like the Oudayas Kasbah, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, Hassan Tower, and more.
  • Walk around the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
  • Seeing the lively city of Marrakech.
  • Travel via Tizi n'Tichka Pass through the High Atlas Mountains.
  • Visit the historic Ksar in Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO site.
  • Go to the Todra Gorge, cedar forests, and beautiful villages.
  • Find green oases and old kasbahs in the Dades Valley.

9 Days Desert Tour Itinerary From Fes

Day 1: Fes - Meknes - Chefchaouen

As we begin our best 9-day Fes desert tour in Fes, we will pick you up from your hotel/riad and travel to Chefchaouen. Unlike more popular cities, Chefchaouen is known for its walls painted in various shades of blue. Along the way, we’ll stop in Meknes, and you won’t be able to miss Bab Mansour, a monumental gateway that connects the Medina to the Imperial City. It was once the main entrance to the sprawling imperial district, but now it houses an art gallery. 

After a delicious lunch, we will proceed to Place Hedim, which is packed with artists, merchants, and snack vendors, is the best place to experience Meknes’ vibrant atmosphere. There’s plenty to look forward to when visiting this bustling and picturesque square, from watching acrobats and fire eaters perform their tricks to haggling with street vendors for rugs, ceramics, and slippers. There are also many cafés with outdoor terraces where you can sit and enjoy tea or coffee. The evenings are especially lively, with music, various snack vendors and stalls selling freshly squeezed juices, carnival-style games and competitions like trying to hook a bottle on a fishing rod.

We will continue our 9-day Morocco tour through the Rif Mountains, which are covered with miles of trails that are super fun to explore. Some of these paths are easily accessible from the city, so you won’t get tired of wandering through the alleys of the old town. Then, we will continue to Chefchaouen’s blue streets at the Medina. This Medina lives up to its reputation as a stunning and picturesque place to visit. The gaps in the buildings provide glimpses of the valley below and the mountains beyond, creating perfect photo ops. And if you’re a pet fan, you’re lucky: Chefchaouen is home to thousands of cats.

So, what’s the deal with this place? Textiles, apparel, seasonings, metalwork, and, most importantly, leather products. Expert leather workers can be found in Chefchaouen, where you can find a wide selection of leather goods or even have something made to order. You can also sample some of the regional specialities, such as the world-renowned goat cheese made right here in the city.

Right after supper, we’ll take you to a top-notch hotel or riad for the night.

Day 2: Chefchaouen - Tangier

After an enjoyable breakfast, we’ll drive to Tangier and see some of the city’s best sights. We will start in the old Medina, which used to be the heart of the city like most of Morocco’s cities. There were only footpaths that led you to different souks, riads, museums, cafés, mosques, and hotels. The walls were old and strong. This is the place to be if you want to experience some culture, eat good food, and shop.

The Sultan’s Palace, also known as Dar el Makhzen, is a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture, and it will be our first stop in the Kasbah area after lunch. Lovely gardens surround it, and it is home to the Museum of Moroccan Arts and Archaeological Museum.

After that, we’ll go to Café Hafa, which is almost always full in the afternoons with locals and tourists playing cards, dancing to music, and lying on the tables. The mornings are the best time to go if you want it to be quieter. The main reason people come here is to see the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea. No matter what, it’s always the best place to relax with a traditional sweet Moroccan mint tea and take in one of the best views in the city. 

We will drive for 25 minutes to Cape Spartel and then go even further south to see the huge Caves of Hercules. This place has both man-made and natural caves, and it’s famous for its cute stalactites and stalagmites. Many Hollywood blockbusters, like Pirates of the Caribbean and Indiana Jones, have used the cave as a setting.

After all the fun, we’ll take you to your hotel so you can get some rest.

Day 3: Tangier – Rabat

We will begin today with an early morning visit to the Kasbah of the Oudayas, also known as the Kasbah of the Udayas or the Kasbah des Oudaias.  This settlement dates back to the 12th century and is fascinating to explore. If you walk down narrow alleyways lined with beautiful white and blue houses, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of flower-adorned windows. Another 12th-century Moorish Garden is a little hidden gem in the city’s heart, with a mix of Andalusian and Moroccan architecture that looks magical. It’s a lush, green area with trees and flowers. There will be elegant fountains, cats, and lovely orange trees. Keep in mind that food is not permitted inside the gardens.

Following that, we will present our respects at the magnificent marble Mausoleum of Mohammed V, which is the location where King Mohammed V and his son Hassan II are laid to rest. This grand tomb is known for its beautiful architecture that mixes modern and traditional Moroccan styles. It has walls made of white marble and a roof that is tiled in green. The entrance fee is free, but you must cover your shoulders and knees before entering.

Right next to the Mausoleum is a well-preserved 44-meter-high grand mosque with a distinctive architectural design. As you ascend the Hassan Tower, you can’t help but be captivated by the sight of the exquisite Islamic calligraphy and the breathtaking panoramas of the city below.

Before being taken to your hotel or riad, you can take a stroll along the 240-kilometer-long Bou Regreg River.

Day 4: Rabat - Casablanca - Essaouira

Today, our 9-day desert tour from Fes continues to the city of Casablanca, where we will visit the Royal Palace, which provides a unique glimpse into Morocco’s royal past and the cultural fusion that makes Casablanca an endlessly fascinating place to explore. Its allure is based on its architectural grandeur and the stories and history it represents. The only drawback is that this palace is not open to the public and is primarily used for special ceremonies and official events; however, you can admire the palace’s grand exterior from the outside.

 The Hassan II Mosque is nearby and one of the most impressive attractions, with gold leaf-decorated ceilings, beautiful marble flooring, and colourful ceramic tiles. You can enter the mosque during guided tours to learn about its unique architectural details and beautifully decorated interiors.

Later in the day, we will drive to Essaouira on the Atlantic Coast, where you can spend the night in a nice hotel or riad.

Day 5: Essaouira - Marrakech

A lovely old town with walls that date back to the late 1700s, the Medina will be our starting point for our morning stroll after breakfast. A fusion of European and Moroccan architectural styles defines this place. You can walk around this UNESCO-listed Medina with its narrow streets and charming alleyways filled with clothing stores, fruit carts, street food stalls, and merchants selling pottery, argan oil, leather shoes, wooden goods, and rugs.

We will end our walk in the afternoon at Port de Essaouira and Skala du Port, two of Essaouira’s most popular tourist spots. Port de Essaouira is a great place to walk around and take pictures. You can see fishermen bringing in their catch of the day right outside the port’s doors. You can also buy a wide range of seafood here, from sardines and pilchards to sole, crab, lobster, octopus, flatfish, and eels.

You must go through the big gate to get into Skala du Port. This famous building was shown on the popular TV show Game of Thrones. You can see the beautiful bronze cannons and climb the bastion stairs to get a great ocean view here. 

We will then go to the ramparts built in the 18th century to keep the port safe from attack. You can climb up and see a bunch of giant Portuguese cannons that are still in good shape. You can also walk along the ramparts in the late afternoon and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean at sunset.

Later, we’ll drive you through the Red City of Marrakech, where you’ll spend the night.

Day 6: Guided Tour of Marrakech

Beginning our exploration of Marrakech’s top attractions, we will visit the Bahia Palace, an impressive structure with 150 rooms constructed in the 19th century by the sultan’s grand vizier, who aspired to be the most magnificent palace ever. Traditional Moroccan architecture is on display in the beautiful tilework and stained-glass windows, and the courtyards are adorned with fountains and orange trees. Those with an interest in history, art, or architecture will enjoy a visit to this stunning palace, say those who have been there before. Remember that this property tends to get busy in the afternoons, so we might consider visiting first thing in the morning.

Then, we will visit the Madrasa Ben Youssef, Morocco’s biggest Islamic college known for its beautiful interior patio. Discover the history of the building, its students, and its cultural significance as you stroll through the ancient halls at your own pace with the help of a guide. In addition to learning about the madrasa’s long history as a school, you can also marvel at the unique fusion of Moorish and Andalusian architecture, making it a priceless piece of Moroccan history.

The Koutoubia Mosque is our next destination, though non-Muslims are not permitted inside the mosque or its minaret, you might be lucky enough to get a glimpse inside during Friday prayers. Under the archway to the left of the main entrance is the ideal location to capture a good photograph of this place. The Saadian Tombs, which are known for their beautiful woodwork, carved plaster, colourful zellij tiles, and complicated tilework, are not located nearby. 

You’ll find the souks North of Jemaa el Fna square, so we’ll be heading there next. There is an abundance of local street food, spices, herbal medicine and one-of-a-kind souvenirs to be found here. From that point on, you can choose to visit the Majorelle Garden, which is located northwest of the Medina and is the most stunning green space in all of Marrakech. 

There are groves of thick bamboo, palm trees, and cacti, as well as sheltered streams, water lily ponds, and a vibrant blue water fountain that complement the nearby Berber Museum. Afterward, you will be taken to your hotel for a good night rest.

Day 7: Marrakech - Boumalne Dades

Boumalne Dades, a region in Morocco known for its breathtaking landscapes, is one of the top attractions in the country, and we’ll be visiting it today. The Tizi n’Tichka Pass, in the High Atlas Mountains, will be our first pass on this journey. The next stop will be at Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fortified village in the country’s southeast. The Kasbah is a must-see, and as you wander through the labyrinthine alleys, you might meet some of the last inhabitants of the ksar. They will gladly show you their wares, play traditional Berber music, or even invite you for mint tea.

Kalaat M’Gouna, a town half an hour’s drive southwest of Boumalne Dades, is the epicentre of the Valley of the Roses, which we will visit later. Damascus roses, grown in this picturesque area and used for many purposes, bloom in the spring and bring the area to life. This valley is most scenic in April and May, and you can practically smell the sweet scent of roses before you even arrive. You can find vendors selling rose-shaped creations and locally distilled rose oil along the roadside.

Day 8: Boumalne Dades - Merzouga Desert

After a nice breakfast, we will continue our 9-day tour of Fes by visiting the Monkey Fingers Rock Formation which looks like two fingers sticking out of the valley. Then, we will make way to the Todra Gorge. In this geological wonder, cliffs as tall as 1,600 feet (500 m) and a kaleidoscope of colours have been sculpted over millions of years. An aerial view of Gorges’ Mountain Pass, a winding road among the terrain that is a popular photo-op for your Instagram pictures, is available when you visit this beautiful landscape. You will have the chance to ride a camel into the desert and witness the breathtaking sunset atop the Erg Chebbi dunes when we arrive in Merzouga, a small town in the Sahara Desert.

As you arrive at the camp, you’ll be greeted by the locals, who may even offer you mint tea to keep you warm. Following a brief introduction, we will show you to your tent so you can freshen up before we serve you a delicious dinner.

Day 9: Merzouga - Fes or Marrakech (Optional)

On this, the last day of your 9-day Morocco tour, we’ll get you up early so you can see the sunset over the dunes. As an alternative, you will be offered the option to travel to Merzouga by four-wheel drive vehicle or by riding a camel. The starting point is in Fes, but you also have the option of going to Marrakech.

Our next destination is the picturesque town of Midelt, which boasts spectacular views from its location at the intersection of the High and Middle Atlas Mountains. Beautiful rough mountains, green valleys, and fertile plains surround the town. But if you go to Marrakech, you must go through Alnif (known for its stunning scenery and rich cultural history) and Ouarzazate.

As we said before, you can end this 9-day tour of Morocco in either Fes or Marrakech, and we will help you make that choice.

Tour On The Map

Our Tour Price

The price for this 9-day Sahara Desert tour from Fes start from €980 per person, and it can be completely customized to suit your interests and schedule. Keep in mind that many factors, like the time of year you travel and the type of lodging you choose, also affect the price.

9 Days Desert Tour from Fes Included and Excluded:

Included

  • Private A/C Vans or 4×4 vehicles
  • Professional driver (English, Italian and Spanish)
  • Pick up & drop off at your accommodation
  • Overnight in a traditional nomad tent
  • Dinners (Boumalne Dades Merzouga Desert)
  • Breakfasts
  • Flexible stops
  • Camel ride for sunset and sunrise
  • Guided tour of Marrakech
  • 8 nights' accommodation
  • Celebrate any special occasions such as birthdays, job promotions and lots more.
  • Sandboarding

Excluded

  • Flight tickets
  • Lunches
  • Drinks
  • Entrance fees to all sites and monuments
  • Tipping
  • Personal expenses
  • Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

What You Should Know Before You Go?

  • Bring toiletries because this is a trip that lasts more than a week.
  • If you are sure of your plans, it is best to book ahead of time to avoid problems or disappointments.
  • Bring footwear that can be worn for long periods and layers that are easy to roll up or down.
  • This tour can be customized to meet your specific requirements and preferences.
  • PayPal and wire transfers are both acceptable methods of payment that we accept.
  • Don't forget to pack loose clothes and comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Do not attend this tour if you are not feeling well.

FQA (frequently questioned answers)

Of course, yes. As stated in the itinerary, you can end the tour in either Fes or Marrakech, the Red City.

Absolutely. The tour can be tailored to your preferences; tell us at the time of booking how you want the tour to be, and we will do our best to ensure you have the best experience possible.

Yes. If you need more time to see everything on the 9-day Morocco tour from Fes, you can always add an extra day. Just be aware that it might cost more but trust us when we say it will be well worth it.

Yes, kids can come on our tour as long as they are with a parent. There is no minimum age requirement, and we promised parents their kids would have a good time.

Yes. We know that some of us travel to celebrate special events, and we want to ensure that your trip is everything you want.

9 Days Tour from Fes Reviews

Olivia Martin – Canada
Olivia Martin – Canada
A TripAdvisor User
The 9 Days Tour from Fes was one of the most incredible experiences of my life! Every day was packed with culture, nature, and adventure. From the blue streets of Chefchaouen to the magic of the Sahara Desert and the vibrant souks of Marrakech, this tour showed us the real Morocco.
Samir Rahman – Australia
Samir Rahman – Australia
A TripAdvisor User
We booked the 9 Days Tour from Fes for our honeymoon, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. The itinerary was well-balanced, the hotels were charming, and our guide made us feel like family. I’ll never forget the sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes!
Anna Becker – Germany
Anna Becker – Germany
A TripAdvisor User
I just finished the 9 Days Tour from Fes and I’m still in awe. This tour covered everything: imperial cities, hidden villages, mountains, and the desert. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Everything was handled so professionally.

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