10-Day Morocco Itinerary: Cities, Desert and Coast❤️
Designing the perfect 10 day Morocco itinerary is about balance. Morocco is not a country you simply pass through; it is a place you feel, listen to, and slowly understand. Over the years, I have guided travelers on this exact route — watching first-time visitors arrive curious, sometimes hesitant, and leave deeply moved.
This itinerary is crafted for travelers who want to see the best places to visit in Morocco without rushing or burning out. It blends imperial cities, desert silence, mountain roads, and Atlantic breezes into a realistic, human-paced journey.
Is This Itinerary Right for You?
This Morocco itinerary for first timers is ideal if you want variety without chaos. You will travel by train, private transport, and short road trips. Expect long but beautiful drives, early mornings, and unforgettable evenings.
If you prefer slow travel, you can adjust nights easily. If you love photography, storytelling, and cultural immersion, this route delivers.
Best Time to Follow This Morocco Travel Route
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Temperatures are comfortable, the desert is accessible, and roads are safe.
Summer is possible but challenging inland. Winter is quieter and beautiful, but nights in the desert and mountains are cold.
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca
Most international flights land in Casablanca. While often skipped, it offers a gentle introduction to modern Morocco.
Visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, beautifully positioned above the Atlantic. Walk the Corniche in the evening and rest. Tomorrow begins the real journey.
Local Tip
Casablanca taxis often use meters, but always confirm before entering.
Day 2: Casablanca to Fes (Train)
Take the morning train to Fes. The journey takes around 4 hours and is comfortable and scenic.
Arriving in Fes feels like stepping into another century. Check into a riad inside the medina and let yourself slow down.
What to Expect
The medina is intense at first — narrow alleys, sounds, and movement everywhere. This is normal. It becomes magical once you stop fighting it.
Day 3: Fes Medina – History and Living Culture
Fes is the spiritual heart of Morocco. With a local guide, explore tanneries, madrasas, artisan workshops, and hidden courtyards.
This is not a museum city. People live and work here. Respectful curiosity is welcomed.
Cultural Tip
Always ask before photographing people. A smile and greeting go a long way.
Day 4: Fes to Merzouga – Into the Sahara
This is a long but unforgettable day of your Morocco road trip. You will cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, cedar forests, and desert plateaus.
Arrive in Merzouga by late afternoon, swap cars for camels, and ride into the dunes as the sun sets.
Night in the Desert
Silence here is powerful. Stars feel close. Dress warmly — desert nights are cold year-round.
Day 5: Sahara Sunrise and Dades Valley
Wake early for sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, continue through Rissani and dramatic desert landscapes toward the Dades Valley.
The scenery slowly transforms — red rock canyons, palm oases, and kasbahs appear like mirages.
Local Insight
Distances here look short but take time. Trust your driver’s pacing more than Google Maps.
Day 6: Dades Valley to Marrakech via Ait Ben Haddou
Visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar and film location. Continue over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass.
Arriving in Marrakech feels like stepping back into energy after days of silence.
Day 7: Marrakech – Color, Chaos, and Calm
Marrakech is overwhelming and addictive. Explore the souks, Bahia Palace, and Jemaa el-Fna square.
In the afternoon, retreat to a garden or hammam. Balance is essential here.
Do and Don’t
Do: Dress modestly, especially in the medina.
Don’t: Engage aggressively with street sellers — polite firmness works best.
Day 8: Marrakech to Essaouira – Atlantic Escape
Drive west to Essaouira, a relaxed coastal town. The air cools, the pace slows, and seafood replaces tajine.
Walk the ramparts, watch fishermen return, and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Local Tip
Essaouira evenings are chilly even in summer. Bring a light jacket.
Day 9: Essaouira – Rest and Reflection
This day is intentionally slow. Enjoy the beach, art galleries, or simply sit with coffee and watch daily life.
Many travelers say this is where Morocco finally settles into them.
Day 10: Return to Marrakech or Casablanca
Depending on your flight, return to Marrakech or continue north to Casablanca.
This final drive is a moment to reflect on how much you’ve experienced in just ten days.
Practical Travel Advice for First Timers
Money
Cash is essential. ATMs are common in cities, rare in remote areas.
Language
French is widely spoken. English is growing, especially in tourism.
Food Safety
Eat where locals eat. Avoid empty restaurants in tourist zones.
Do’s and Don’ts in Morocco
Do
- Greet people politely
- Accept tea when offered
- Be patient
Don’t
- Rush conversations
- Assume hostility where there is cultural difference
- Expect rigid schedules
Final Thoughts on This 10 Day Morocco Itinerary
This 10 day Morocco itinerary is not about ticking landmarks. It is about flow — from city to silence, from chaos to coast.
Morocco changes how you travel. If you allow it, it teaches patience, presence, and appreciation for moments you never planned.
Follow this route with an open heart, and Morocco will meet you with stories you carry for life.
