Embark on an extraordinary 2-week journey as we invite you to travel to Morocco – a land of breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage. Discover the hidden gems and iconic landmarks that make Morocco truly special. From Marrakech’s bustling souks to the majestic Sahara Desert and the captivating medinas of Fez and Chefchaouen, our self-drive itinerary ensures an unforgettable adventure.
In this blog post, we provide you with a 2-week itinerary covering the must-visit places in Morocco, along with valuable insights to enhance your travel experience. For additional travel tips, transportation options, and detailed guides, please refer to our linked blog posts.
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Day 1: Start your travel to Morocco with exploring the capital Rabat
1 night in Rabat
We only ended up staying in Rabat because our flight got rescheduled, but looking back now, we’re thrilled that we got the chance to explore this gem of a city while traveling to Morocco. Rabat is a true hidden treasure in Morocco, often overlooked by tourists who jump straight to other destinations. But let us tell you, it’s worth starting your journey right here. Nestled along the scenic banks of the river Bou-Regreg, Rabat offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. That’s why we highly recommend beginning your Moroccan adventure with a visit to Rabat.
We parked our car here and paid 40 MAD for one night. From there it was just a 5 to 10-minute walk into the Medina.
If you do not have a flight yet, you can choose a suitable one to Morocco here (*affiliate link):
Rabat, known for its tranquil ambiance, provides a more relaxed atmosphere compared to other bustling Moroccan cities. This makes it an ideal starting point for your journey, allowing you to ease into the Moroccan culture. Plus, there is a lot to see and do in Rabat. You can wander through the Andalusian Gardens and explore the lively souks. Don’t miss the ancient Kasbah des Oudayas.
Where to eat
Where to stay
Day 2 - 3: Visit Chefchaouen, the blue city of Morocco while traveling to Morocco
2 nights in Chefchaouen
4.5-hour drive from Rabat, 250 km (257 mi)
On your second day, you’ll embark on a journey from Rabat to Chefchaouen, a city that holds a special place in our hearts. Located in the beautiful Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is known for its stunning blue buildings and streets. As you wander through the narrow alleys, you’ll be captivated by the enchanting atmosphere of this unique city. Plus, if you love the outdoors, don’t miss the chance to go hiking in the Rif Mountains that surround Chefchaouen. Never ever would we have thought that Morocco has canyons and adventurous hiking trails like you find them near Chefchaouen.
Finding parking in Chefchaouen can be a bit of a challenge, but no worries! Just ask your Riad or hotel where to park and let them know when you’ll arrive. You might come across locals offering to help with your luggage, which can be a lifesaver if you have a long and steep path to your Riad. Just remember to agree on the price in advance (usually not more than 20 MAD).
Where to eat
Where to stay
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Day 4 - 5: Explore Fes and (don’t) get lost in the medina
2 nights in Fes
3.5-hour drive from Chefchaouen, 200 km (124 mi)
Finding the tanneries can be a bit tricky, so we’ve provided helpful information below to ensure you don’t miss out on this unique experience. And don’t forget to explore at least one of the historic Madrasas (Islamic schools) in Fes. The Moroccan architecture and design will leave you speechless.
We were advised by our Riad to park our car here. Before you arrive, simply check with your Riad for the closest parking option, and they’ll have you covered.
- Reisetipps Fes Link noch einfügen
Where to eat
Where to stay
Day 6 - 7: Your travel to Morocco is not complete without visiting the Sahara Desert
2 nights in the Desert
8-hour drive from Fes, 460 km (285 mi)
Get ready for an epic journey as you hit the road towards the dune field of Erg Chebbi, located near the town of Merzouga. Tonight, you will sleep in a desert camp in the middle of the Sahara Desert Trust us, it’s an absolute highlight of a trip to Morocco that will leave you in awe. Now, we’ll be honest—the genuine hospitality factor might be lacking in some places we encountered on our journey, and the desert was no exception. But the extraordinary surroundings make up for it.
Set your alarm clock early the next day, because witnessing the sunrise in the midst of towering sand dunes is pure magic. Picture yourself standing there, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet as the sun paints the sky with breathtaking hues—it’s an experience like no other. And don’t miss out on the array of activities offered at the desert camps, from sightseeing tours to sandboarding adventures and even camel riding.
Here’s an important tip for you: Start your journey as early as possible to avoid arriving in the desert after dark (we’ve learned from our own mistakes). Also, ensure you have enough cash on hand, as most accommodations, activities, and meals are typically paid for in cash.
- Read icon: What to expect when staying in the Moroccan desert
Where to stay
We recommend dining in your camp as it can be quite a journey to get there, and there are no other facilities nearby. Breakfast is usually included, and you can settle the payment for dinner during your checkout
Where to eat
Day 8 - 9: Dades Valley & Ouarzazate, the Gateway to the Sahara
2 nights in Ouarzazate
6-hour drive from Merzouga, 420 km (260 mi)
Your journey for today will take you to Ouarzazate. We had the pleasure of spending the night and the entire next day in a truly stunning and peaceful ecolodge*. It was like stepping into an oasis, where we could unwind by the pool and play with the adorable kittens. After the long drive and the scorching desert heat, it was the perfect retreat.
Before reaching Ouarzazate, we suggest making a stop in the beautiful Dades Valley. Take a hike amidst the stunning landscapes or relax at one of the charming Berber cafés, enjoying the panoramic view while sipping on a cup of refreshing mint tea, famously known as Berber ‘whiskey’.
If you’re eager to explore beyond the ecolodge, you can consider visiting the Atlas Film Studios and the Kasbah Taourirt, located in the heart of the city. For a truly unique experience, we highly recommend taking part in a cooking class with a local family. During our class, we had the opportunity to learn how to prepare traditional dishes such as a Tajine, flavorful Harira soup, and Baghrir, sweet and fluffy Moroccan pancakes served with honey.
Wohin to eat
Where to stay
Day 10: Discover the enchanting village of Ait Ben Haddou while traveling to Morocco
4 nights in Marrakech
4-hour drive from Ouarzazate, 220 km (137 mi)
Tonight, you will arrive in Marrakech, marking the end of your trip. But before you fully explore Marrakech, make a stop in Ait Ben Haddou. Convenient parking is available along the main road in front of the small businesses or at a nearby parking lot. A parking attendant will charge you a maximum of 10 to 20 MAD for the entire day. From there, it’s just a short walk to the main entrance of the ancient Kasbah.
Upon arrival, you’ll immediately notice why Ait Ben Haddou is such a unique place in Morocco. Its well-preserved mud-brick architecture and historical significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site make it truly special. Additionally, Ait Ben Haddou has served as a captivating backdrop for numerous famous movies, attracting history, culture, and film enthusiasts alike.
We spent a few hours strolling through the streets of Ait Ben Haddou, exploring the bustling souk, and savoring a cup of tea from one of the rooftop terraces. We also couldn’t resist purchasing some of the unique art. They are created with natural dyes and brought to life through a remarkable burning technique. The artists were incredibly kind and patient, allowing us to film and take photos without pushing us to buy anything.
Day 11 - 13: Marrakesh - the city that cannot be missed on any tour of Morocco
4 hour drive rom Ouarzazate, 220 km
No trip to Morocco is complete without a visit to Marrakech. This city has it all—fascinating history, bustling souks, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering Moroccan cuisine.
It’s the perfect place to wrap up your adventure. Marrakech offers endless opportunities for exploration, but if things get overwhelming, you can always take a break with a day trip to the Agafay desert or visit some breathtaking waterfalls. And for an unforgettable experience, why not go on a hot air balloon ride at sunrise?
Top Tip: If you’ve been traveling by car like us, it’s best to return it at the airport before heading to Marrakech. Trust us, navigating your car through the Medina of Marrakech can be a nightmare. Alternatively, you can park your car outside the Medina and explore on foot or take a taxi into the city.
Where to eat
Where to stay
Tag 14: Rabat – Your travel to Morocco comes to an end
Optional: 1 night in Rabat
4 hour drive from Marrakech, 220 km (137 miles)
If you have an extra two days to spare, we highly recommend considering two amazing destinations: Imlil, located in the Atlas Mountains or Essaouira, a charming coastal town.
In Imlil, you can embark on a memorable hiking adventure surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The trails offer a chance to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy beautiful mountain views.
On the other hand, Essaouira is a picturesque coastal town with a unique charm. You can stroll along the sandy beaches, explore the vibrant medina, and indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants.
We hope this blog post has provided you with valuable insights to plan your trip to Morocco. If you have any feedback or questions, we’d love to hear from you. Feel free to leave a comment, use our contact form, or send us a message on Instagram. Safe travels and enjoy your adventure in Morocco!
