10 Days in Morocco, Desert to Mountains

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Welcome to Morocco, a land of contrasts, where golden deserts meet snow-capped mountains and vibrant souks lead to tranquil riads. 🇲🇦

In this 10-day Morocco itinerary, Ease The Travel takes you from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the vast Sahara Desert, the blue alleys of Chefchaouen, and the majestic Atlas Mountains.

This trip is perfect for travelers who crave culture, adventure, and a touch of magic. 🌍✨

Day 1–2: Marrakech – The Red City

Start your Moroccan adventure in Marrakech, a whirlwind of colors, scents, and sounds.

✨ Top Things to Do:

  • Wander the Jemaa el-Fnaa Square — snake charmers, storytellers & street food

  • Visit Bahia Palace and El Badi Palace

  • Explore Jardin Majorelle (Yves Saint Laurent’s blue garden)

  • Enjoy a rooftop sunset dinner in the Medina

💡 Budget Tip: Stay in a traditional riad for an authentic and affordable experience.

🏜️ Day 3: Aït Ben Haddou – Gateway to the Desert

Journey through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass to reach Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This ancient clay village has appeared in movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

💡 Don’t Miss: Climb to the top of the kasbah for panoramic views of the valley.

Stay: Ouarzazate or nearby guesthouse.

🐫 Day 4–5: Merzouga & The Sahara Desert

Travel deeper into the desert toward Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes.

🏜️ Experiences:

  • Ride a camel at sunset over the golden dunes

  • Spend a night in a luxury desert camp

  • Enjoy Berber music by the campfire

  • Wake up early for sunrise over the sands

💡 Pro Tip: Bring a scarf or turban — it’s great for photos and sand protection.

🏞️ Day 6–7: Todra Gorge & Dades Valley

After the desert, head to the Todra Gorge, a stunning canyon popular for rock climbing and hiking.

Continue to the Dades Valley, known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.”
Drive along the winding “Monkey Fingers” road for incredible views.

Stay: Dades Valley guesthouse or local homestay.

🕌 Day 8: Fes – The Spiritual Capital

Arrive in Fes, Morocco’s most ancient imperial city. Its medina is a maze of narrow lanes filled with artisans, markets, and mosques.

✨ Top Sights:

  • Al-Qarawiyyin University – world’s oldest university

  • Chouara Tannery – watch traditional leather dyeing

  • Bou Inania Madrasa – stunning architecture

💡 Budget Tip: Hire a local guide for a few hours — the medina is easy to get lost in!

💙 Day 9: Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl

Head north to Chefchaouen, one of the most photogenic towns in the world. Every alley is painted in dreamy shades of blue.

✨ Things to Do:

  • Stroll through the blue streets & small artisan shops

  • Hike to the Spanish Mosque for a panoramic sunset view

  • Relax at a café overlooking the medina

💡 Stay: In a riad with a rooftop terrace for morning views.

🕌 Day 10: Casablanca – Modern Morocco

End your Moroccan adventure in Casablanca, a city blending tradition and modernity.

✨ Highlights:

  • Visit the Hassan II Mosque – one of the largest in the world

  • Walk along the Corniche seaside promenade

  • Enjoy Moroccan mint tea before your flight home

💡 Pro Tip: Casablanca’s airport has direct connections to major international cities.

🍲 Moroccan Food to Try

  • Tagine – slow-cooked stew (chicken, lamb, or veggie)

  • Couscous – Friday traditional meal

  • Harira – tomato & lentil soup

  • Pastilla – sweet-salty pie with chicken and almonds

  • Mint Tea – the “Moroccan whiskey”

💡 Eat at local restaurants for authentic and budget-friendly meals.

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