PRIVATE TOUR — 10 Days Morocco Grand Tour from Marrakech
OVERVIEW
Morocco 10 day grand tour from Marrakech and Essaouira to Fes and Chefchaouen through the Sahara desert. In these 10 days / 9 nights you’ll visit so many amazing sites, including the highlights of Marrakech and Essaouira, the High Atlas Mountains, and the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, as well as the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah and Ouarzazate city, in addition to the Amridil Kasbah, the Dades Valley, and the Todra Gorges. You also visit the Merzouga Sahara desert, where you ride camels, witness a magical sunset and sunrise, and spend the night in a desert camp, and explore the Sahara Desert of Merzouga in a 4×4.
Furthermore, you visit the Rissani traditional market and Erfoud the fossils town, then the Switzerland of Morocco, Ifrane, and the cedar forest where the Barbary macaques live. You explore Fes and Meknes, two of the imperial cities of Morocco, and visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the blue city of Chefchaouen. Finally, the tour ends in Tangier.
Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
Start: Marrakech
End: Tangier
Tour style: Private
HIGHLIGHTS
– Crossing the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass
– Visiting the historic Telouet Kasbah and the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
– Exploring Ouarzazate, Morocco’s famous “Gateway to the Desert”
– Visiting the renowned Atlas Studios and the impressive Taourirt Kasbah
– Discovering the beautiful Skoura palm groves and the historic Amridil Kasbah
– Exploring the fragrant Rose Valley and its traditional rose products
– Discovering the dramatic Dades Valley and the famous “Monkey Fingers” rock formations
– Exploring the spectacular Todra Gorges and the scenic Touroug and Tinjdad palm groves
– Riding camels through the golden dunes of the Merzouga Sahara Desert
– Watching a breathtaking sunset and sunrise over the Sahara
– Spending the night in a luxury desert camp beneath a vast sky filled with stars
– Enjoying traditional Moroccan dinner and Berber drum music around the campfire
– Exploring the Merzouga region, including the Erg Chebbi dunes, desert oasis, palm grove, and wild Merzouga Lake
– Visiting Berber nomads in their traditional handmade tents and sharing Berber tea
– Experiencing authentic Gnawa music and dancing in Khamlia village
– Exploring the traditional Rissani souk and visiting Erfoud’s famous fossilised-marble workshops
– Admiring panoramic views of the Ziz Valley and meeting Barbary macaques in the cedar forest
– Visiting Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco”
– Discovering Fes, Morocco’s cultural and spiritual heart, with a guided tour of its historic Medina
– Exploring the Royal Palace Gate, Mellah, Borj Sud, Ceramic Village, Al Attarine Madrasa, Al Quaraouiyine, and Chouara Tanneries
– Discovering the imperial city of Meknes and its historic monuments, including Bab Al-Mansour and the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum
– Exploring the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
– Wandering through the enchanting blue-painted streets and alleys of Chefchaouen
– Experiencing an unforgettable 8-day Moroccan journey from Marrakech through the Sahara, Fes, Meknes, Volubilis, and Chefchaouen to Tangier
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN MARRAKECH (15 min drive)
The 10 day Morocco trip begins with a pick-up from Marrakech airport, followed by a brief drive through the city of Marrakech. Afterward, you’re transferred to your accommodation for an overnight stay in a traditional riad.
DAY 2: MARRAKECH – ESSAOUIRA (3 hours drive)
After breakfast, you head west toward the coastal city of Essaouira. Along the way, you stop to visit an argan tree plantation and a local cooperative; if you’re lucky, you might even spot goats climbing the trees. You also pause for panoramic views before arriving in Essaouira — formerly known as Mogador — one of Morocco’s most charming coastal towns. Enjoy free time to explore the fishing port, stroll along the ancient ramparts lined with cannons, and wander through the atmospheric old Medina. Overnight stay in Essaouira.
DAY 3: ESSAOUIRA – GUIDED TOUR SIGHTSEEING MARRAKECH (3 hours drive + 3 hours walking tour)
You return to Marrakech to discover the city’s most iconic landmarks with a local guide. As one of Morocco’s historic imperial cities, Marrakech is rich in culture and architectural beauty. The tour includes a visit to the stunning 19th-century Bahia Palace, followed by the beautifully preserved Ben Youssef Madrasa, a former Islamic school showcasing traditional Moroccan design. You also explore the lively Medina and its souks, filled with colourful stalls and skilled artisans, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jamaa El-Fna Square, and admire the grandeur of the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest in the city.
DAY 4: MARRAKECH – HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS – AIT BEN HADDOU KASBAH – ROSE VALLEY – DADES VALLEY (6 hours drive)
You drive through the fascinating High Atlas Mountains and the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, with stops for panoramic views of the breathtaking landscapes and Berber villages.
Your next stop is the renowned Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This iconic site has served as the backdrop for numerous films, including Gladiator, Alexander, and The Mummy, and popular TV series like Game of Thrones. A 40-minute hike lets you explore the kasbah on foot and enjoy panoramic views from the top.
Then you head to “the Gate of the Desert,” Ouarzazate. Free time for lunch, then you continue to visit the Rose Valley, passing through the large palm grove of Skoura. Finally, you drive to Boumalne Dades, where you spend the night (dinner included).
DAY 5: DADES VALLEY – TODRA GORGES – MERZOUGA DUNES – CAMEL TREKKING – OVERNIGHT IN A LUXURY CAMP (5 hours drive)
After breakfast, you drive through the scenic Dades Valley, making a stop at a panoramic viewpoint. You then continue to the spectacular Todra Gorges, where the Todra River has carved a dramatic canyon with towering red cliffs. You’ll have free time to walk through the gorge and enjoy the natural beauty of this unique setting.
The journey then takes you through the lush palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad, with free time for lunch along the way.
In the afternoon you arrive in the golden dunes of the Merzouga Sahara desert, where your camels await. You embark on a peaceful camel trek across the dunes, with a stop atop a high dune to witness the magical desert sunset. You then continue to a luxury desert camp, where you’re welcomed with traditional Berber hospitality. Enjoy dinner, accompanied by Berber drumming and dancing around the campfire. Overnight stay in the camp.
DAY 6: EXPLORE THE MERZOUGA REGION – NOMADS – KHAMLIA – MERZOUGA LAKE – ERG CHEBBI – PALM GROVE (2 hours drive)
Waking early is a must, to contemplate the beautiful sunrise in the middle of the desert. Free time for breakfast. You then return on camels or by 4×4 to Merzouga, where the driver awaits. You dedicate the day to exploring the region of Merzouga, which has so many incredible sites — from sand dunes, a wild lake, mines, and fossil areas to fabulous oases — ideal places for many outdoor activities.
Firstly, you start your journey in Merzouga by driving off-road to visit an ancient eyeliner (kohl) mine. Then you pay the nomads a visit in their handmade woven tent, learning how they live over a Berber tea. Your next destination is the Khamlia village, where you enjoy Gnawa music and dancing performances; its inhabitants originate from sub-Saharan countries such as Mali, Sudan, and Niger. Free time for lunch in a restaurant. After that, you take a stroll in a palm-tree grove, then drive a few kilometres to see the wild lake of Merzouga, also called the flamingos lake. Dinner and overnight in a riad next to the dunes.
DAY 7: MERZOUGA DUNES – ERFOUD – MIDELT – CEDAR FOREST – IFRANE – FES (7 hours drive)
After breakfast, you leave the desert to visit Rissani, the ancient capital of Tafilalet and still a major trading centre in the region, with a large souk that’s lively on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. After a stroll through the Rissani souk, you continue to Erfoud, where you visit one of the fossilised-marble workshops.
After that, you drive along the Ziz River and stop for a panoramic view of the Ziz Valley. Free time for lunch in Midelt or on the way. Then you continue to the cedar forest, home to the Barbary macaques; feel free to feed them as you wander among the trees. After that, you visit Ifrane, famous for its low temperatures, snow, and alpine-style houses — no wonder it’s called the Switzerland of Morocco. Finally, night in Fes, with a free evening in the Medina.
DAY 8: GUIDED TOUR SIGHTSEEING FES (30 min / 3–4 hours walking tour)
We pick you up from your accommodation in Fes after breakfast to begin your immersive exploration of one of Morocco’s most iconic imperial cities — Fes, the country’s cultural and spiritual heart.
Your journey starts with a driving tour. First, you stop at the magnificent Royal Palace Gate, followed by a visit to “The Mellah,” the historic Jewish Quarter. Then you enjoy breathtaking views from the Borj Sud fortress, a stunning overlook of the ancient Medina. The final stop of this portion is the Ceramic Village & School, where you witness traditional craftsmanship in action.
Next comes a walking tour. You step back in time as you enter the medieval Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved historic towns in the Arab world. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you explore highlights such as the Al Attarine Madrasa, the University and Mosque of Al Quaraouiyine — considered the oldest existing university in the world — and the colourful Chouara Tanneries, where leather is dyed using centuries-old methods.
After this unforgettable journey through history, you’re returned to your riad to relax.
DAY 9: FES – MEKNES – VOLUBILIS RUINS – CHEFCHAOUEN (4 hours drive)
After breakfast, you depart to visit Meknes, the Ismaili capital and one of the imperial cities, where you see Bab Al-Mansour, the Sahrij Souani basin, the Royal Stables, the granary, and the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum. Free time for lunch. Next, you drive 30 km from Meknes to visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Remarkably well preserved, it’s recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with beautiful mosaics scattered here and there alongside ancient pillars and archways.
After exploring the ancient ruins, you continue your journey north through Ouazzane, making your way to Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains. Often referred to as the blue city, Chefchaouen is renowned for its charming streets and buildings painted in various shades of blue. You’ll have the evening to relax and soak in the town’s unique atmosphere. Overnight stay in a local riad.
DAY 10: TRANSFER TO TANGIER AIRPORT (2 hours drive)
After breakfast, you drive through the scenic Rif Mountains en route to Tangier airport, marking the end of your unforgettable 10 day trip from Marrakech. Depending on your flight time, you may enjoy some free time to wander through the charming blue-painted alleyways of Chefchaouen, or even take a short city tour in Tangier.
IMPORTANT! Bear in mind that the 10 Day Trip is just a suggested tour itinerary. If it doesn’t match what you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll organise a different itinerary based on your preferences and the length of your stay. We offer customised and tailor-made tours and trips all around Morocco.
THE PRICE varies according to the number of people: the more people joining the tour, the lower the price becomes. Since the transportation cost is fixed, the price is divided according to the number of people. The price also depends on the quality of the accommodation. Contact us for an exact price.
You can consider a longer tour:
– Morocco Itinerary 12 Days
– 14 Days In Morocco
More 10 day tours:
– 10 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca
– 10 Days Tour From Fes
– 10 Days From Tangier
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: 10 DAY MOROCCO TRIP
Is the 10 day tour private or shared?
The ten-day tour is a private experience, so only the travellers making the enquiry take part. No additional people join the tour. Our focus is on high-quality, personalised experiences, which is why we mainly offer private tours.
Is the tent private? Does it have a private shower?
The tent at the luxury camp is private and has private bathrooms with hot running water.
How long is the camel ride?
The camel ride lasts from 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on which camp you’re staying in.
What is the alternative to camels?
If you’d rather not ride, the camp has a 4×4 that takes people and luggage in and out, which you’re welcome to use. Alternatively, ATVs can be arranged at an additional cost.
What happens to your luggage when you do the camel ride?
During the camel ride you take only what you need for the ride itself. The rest of your luggage is transported in the camp’s 4×4, and you’ll find it waiting for you at the camp.
What is the best time to visit Morocco?
The best times are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is mild and pleasant across most regions. Winter is great too, especially in the southern desert part.
What type of vehicles are used?
The vehicle will be either an SUV (4×4) or a minivan, both with A/C.
Vehicle details:
– 4×4: Land Cruiser Prado (up to 4 pax)
– Minivans: Mercedes Vito Tourer, Ford Tourneo Van, or similar (up to 8 pax)
For groups larger than 8, a minibus seating up to 18 pax can be provided.
Dietary preferences
Please share any dietary preferences you have, and we’ll make sure your needs are met. Kindly let us know in advance so we can arrange lunch stops accordingly and notify the riad/camp, as some dinners are included in the package.
Tour age suitability
This tour is suitable for all ages.
Expenses
Currency exchange: Euros or USD can be exchanged for Moroccan dirham (MAD) at many locations across Morocco, including banks and exchange bureaus, and ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals. While credit cards and foreign currencies (euros/USD) are generally accepted, it’s wise to carry local currency (MAD) for convenience.
Meal costs: Meals typically range from €5 to €20 per person, though prices vary by establishment.
Haggling / price negotiation: Haggling is an accepted and expected practice in Morocco; even locals take part in it.
BOOKING PROCESS:
1. Get in touch with us through the contact forms, email, WhatsApp, or our social networks, and tell us the number of travellers, the type of accommodation (excellent, luxury, etc.), your tour date (if available), and your chosen tour or some details so we can plan a new itinerary for you.
2. Booking: We ask for a small deposit to confirm the booking (preferably via our PayPal account). The rest is paid in cash to your driver/guide once you arrive, or through PayPal, which carries a 5% transaction fee. If you don’t have PayPal, we can send an online invoice you can pay by card. A bank/wire transfer is another option; it takes up to 12 days to appear in our system, and we can confirm the tour with a transaction receipt until the payment arrives.
WHY PRIVATE MOROCCO TOURS?
A private tour is an itinerary run exclusively according to your preferences. On a private trip you travel only with the people you choose. Private tours are more flexible when it comes to group size, travel dates, and what your trip includes. On top of that, you’ll have your own tour guide and driver at your disposal.
1. Booking, Pricing & Payment
Q: How does the pricing work for Morocco tours?
A: Pricing is dynamic and depends on two main factors:
Group Size: Because private vehicle and driver costs are fixed, per-person rates decrease significantly as your group size increases.
Accommodation Tier: Tours can be quoted with standard, mid-range, or 5-star luxury Riads and desert camps.
Q: What is the booking and payment process?
A: Select an itinerary or request a custom route via WhatsApp, email, or contact form.
Pay a small confirmation deposit via PayPal, credit card online invoice, or international bank transfer.
Pay the remaining balance upon arrival in cash (EUR, USD, or MAD) directly to your driver/guide, or via PayPal (which carries a standard 5% processing fee).
2. Tour Types & Customization
Q: What is the difference between small shared group tours and private tours?
A: Small Shared Group Tours: Limited to a maximum of 10 travelers (featured on Morocco Fabulous Travel), offering a cost-effective, social experience on fixed routes (e.g., 3-day Marrakech to Fes).
Private Tours: Fully customizable itineraries where only your party travels in a dedicated 4WD or minivan with your personal driver/guide, allowing you to choose stops, pace, and departure dates.
Q: Can we customize our itinerary or start from any city?
A: Yes. Both agencies allow full customization. Tours can depart from and end in any major Moroccan gateway, including Casablanca (CMN airport), Marrakech, Fes, Tangier, Ouarzazate, or Errachidia.
3. Desert Experience & Camp Life
Q: What does a Sahara Desert tour include?
A: Most standard 3- to 5-day desert packages include:
Private air-conditioned transportation with fuel.
Professional multilingual local Berber driver/guide.
Scenic mountain crossings (Tizi n’Tichka / High Atlas) and stops (Aït Benhaddou, Dades/Todra Gorges).
Sunset camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga.
Overnight stay at a Berber desert camp (Standard or Luxury) with private tent, dinner, breakfast, and traditional campfire music.
Q: What is the difference between a Standard and a Luxury Desert Camp?
A: Standard Camps: Comfortable Berber nomad tents with shared or basic bathroom facilities outside the tent.
Luxury Camps: Spacious private tent suites featuring proper beds, private en-suite bathrooms with hot-water showers, electricity, and premium bedding.
4. Practical Logistics & On-Trip Details
Q: Are meals and entrance fees included?
A: Included: Daily breakfast and dinners in the desert and mountain gorges (Dades/Todra).
Excluded: Lunches, drinks/beverages, personal expenses, tips, and entry fees to historical monuments (unless bundled into a luxury custom quote).
Q: Which languages do the drivers and local guides speak?
A: The dedicated local drivers/guides speak English, French, Spanish, and Arabic/Berber. For deep-dive historical city tours (such as the medinas of Fes or Marrakech), licensed local city guides are hired.
