How to Plan Your 12 Days Private Tour in Morocco: Cities, Atlas and Desert

If you want to have an unforgettable adventure in Morocco, a 12-day private tour is the best way to see all the country’s historical, natural, and cultural highlights. From the colorful coastline to the majestic mountains and golden sands of the Sahara, this tour will take you on a journey through Moroccan history, culture, and landscapes. Here’s how to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Morocco.

Day 1: Marrakech

Your tour starts in Marrakech, the vibrant red city that will capture your heart with its lively atmosphere and stunning architecture. You’ll meet your driver-guide at your hotel or the airport and start your adventure right away. If you arrive early, you can explore Marrakech’s famous souks, gardens, and palaces, such as the Bahia Palace or the Koutoubia Mosque. In the evening, you’ll have dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant and enjoy a night in a riad, a typical Moroccan house with a central courtyard.

Day 2: Casablanca and Rabat

On your second day, you’ll head to Casablanca, the economic capital of Morocco, and visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. You’ll then drive to Rabat, the political capital, and visit the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Hassan Tower, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. In the late afternoon, you’ll return to your hotel in Rabat and have dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Chefchaouen

On day three, you’ll drive to Chefchaouen, the blue city, nestled in the Rif Mountains. You’ll have lunch in the medina and then explore the charming blue alleys, surrounded by white-washed buildings adorned with colorful flowers. You’ll have dinner and spend the night in a riad in Chefchaouen, where you’ll experience the laid-back atmosphere of this hidden gem.

Day 4: Volubilis and Meknes

On your fourth day, you’ll leave Chefchaouen and drive to Volubilis, the Roman ruins that will transport you back to ancient times. You’ll explore the site with a local guide and learn about the history and legacy of the Romans in Morocco. You’ll then head to Meknes, the imperial city that will awe you with its grandeur and architecture. You’ll visit the Bab Mansour gate, the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, and the royal palace. You’ll have dinner and spend the night in a traditional riad in Meknes.

Day 5: Fes

On day five, you’ll drive to Fes, the cultural and spiritual capital of Morocco, where you’ll spend two nights. You’ll have a guided tour of the Medina of Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its winding alleys, vibrant souks, and ancient madrasas. You’ll learn about the history, architecture, and traditions of this fascinating city. You’ll also have free time to explore the city and try some local specialties, such as pastilla, couscous, or mint tea.

Day 6: Fes

On your sixth day, you’ll have a free day in Fes to explore the city at your own pace. You can visit the tanneries, the Borj Nord museum, or take a cooking class to learn how to prepare Moroccan dishes. You’ll have dinner and spend the night in your riad in Fes.

Day 7: Ifrane and Azrou

On day seven, you’ll leave Fes and drive to Ifrane, the Swiss-like town, famous for its architecture and Alpine-style houses. You’ll then head to Azrou, the Cedar Forest, where you’ll see the famous Barbary apes and enjoy the stunning views of the Atlas Mountains. You’ll have lunch in a local restaurant and drive to Midelt, where you’ll spend the night in a hotel.

Day 8: Merzouga and the Sahara

On day eight, you’ll drive to Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara desert. You’ll have lunch in Erfoud, the fossil city, and then take a 4×4 tour of the Erg Chebbi dunes, the highest dunes in Morocco. You’ll then ride a camel to your desert camp, where you’ll have dinner under the stars, listen to traditional music and spend the night in a comfortable tent.

Day 9: Merzouga and the Sahara

On your ninth day, you’ll wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes and enjoy a traditional breakfast. You’ll then ride your camel back to Merzouga and drive to Rissani, the ancient capital of the Alaouite dynasty, where you’ll visit the Moulay Ali Cherif Mausoleum and the local souk. You’ll have lunch in a local restaurant and return to your hotel in Merzouga, where you can relax or take a swim in the pool.

Day 10: Todra and Dades Gorges

On day ten, you’ll leave Merzouga and drive to the Todra Gorge, a spectacular canyon, popular for hiking and rock climbing. You’ll have lunch in a local restaurant and then drive to the Dades Gorge, famous for its stunning landscapes and red cliffs. You’ll spend the night in a hotel in the Dades Valley, where you can enjoy the peaceful scenery and traditional hospitality.

Day 11: Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate

On your eleventh day, you’ll drive to Ouarzazate, the Hollywood of Morocco, and visit the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular filming location for movies and TV shows, such as Game of Thrones, Gladiator or Lawrence of Arabia. You’ll have lunch in a local restaurant and then visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a stunning palace that will amaze you with its intricate details and colorful tiles. You’ll spend the night in a hotel in Ouarzazate, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Day 12: Atlas Mountains and Marrakech

On your last day, you’ll drive through the Atlas Mountains and visit the traditional Berber villages, where you’ll see how the locals live and work. You’ll stop at the Tizi n’Tichka pass, the highest point in the Atlas Mountains, and enjoy the panoramic views of the valleys and peaks. You’ll then drive back to Marrakech, where your tour ends. You can book an extra night in Marrakech or extend your stay in Morocco.

To book your 12-days private tour in Morocco, visit the Viator website and reserve your spot. The tour includes transport, driver-guide, accommodation, and some entry fees and activities, such as the camel ride, the guided tour in Fes, and the 4×4 desert tour. You’ll need to arrange your flights, lunches, drinks, and dinners in some cities, such as Essaouira, Casablanca, or Fes.

In summary, a 12-day private tour in Morocco is a fantastic way to see all the country’s highlights and hidden treasures, from the imperial cities and the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert and the charming medinas. By following this itinerary, you’ll have a full and fulfilling experience of Morocco’s rich culture, history, and nature. Book your tour today and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Book your Private 12-Days Tour from Marrakech, Imperial Cities, Atlas and Sahara Desert here