Explore Morocco! 9 NIGHTS/10 DAYS
Have you been dreaming of Morocco—the spice-scented souks, vibrant cities, ancient medinas, and endless desert skies? It's time to stop dreaming and start packing.
On this 9-night, 10-day epic adventure, you'll experience the most iconic highlights and hidden gems of this mesmerizing North African gem. From the breezy seaside capital of Rabat, to the breathtaking blue-washed alleyways of Chefchaouen, to the ancient labyrinth of Fez’s medina, and the electric energy of Marrakech’s souks, this journey blends culture, history, and adventure in perfect harmony.
But the true heart of the trip?
A once-in-a-lifetime stay in a luxurious Sahara desert camp near Merzouga, where you’ll ride camels over golden dunes at sunset, dine under the stars on traditional Berber cuisine, and dance around the fire to the hypnotic rhythms of Berber music echoing into the night.
This isn’t your average group tour. It’s a carefully curated, moderately paced itinerary designed by Never Lost Travel—crafted to balance immersive cultural experiences with time to soak it all in. Yes, Morocco is a large country (roughly the size of California!), and you'll cover a lot of ground—but we’ve thoughtfully planned each leg of the journey to keep drive times comfortable and scenic.
Morocco is calling. Will you answer?
💫 Please note: Morocco is a vast and diverse country—roughly the size of California—and there’s so much to explore. To truly experience the richness of its landscapes and culture, this itinerary does involve some long travel days by road. But don’t worry: we’ve carefully paced the journey to keep drive times manageable, with scenic stops and experiences along the way to break things up and keep the magic flowing.
ALL HOTEL STAYS 9 NIGHTS BASED ON ** DOUBLE OCCUPANCY **
Rabat - Riad Zyo or similar
Chefchaouen - 1 night RIAD HICHAM or similar
Fes - 2 Nights Riad Ahlam/Riad Fes Nass Zmane or similar
Efoud - 1 night Riad Azawad/Riad Chebbi or similar
Merzouga - 1 night MOONLIGHT DESERT LUXURY CAMP or similar
Dades Valley - 1 night Ksar Sultan Dades / Riad Dades Paradise or similar
Marrakech - 2 nights Riad Al Rimal / Riad Bahia Salam or similar
Meals:
- 9 breakfasts
- 8 lunches
- 5 dinners
Included services:
- Airfare to and from Morocco. *** This is a MULTI CITY AIRFARE TRIP. This means you fly into one place and fly out of another as follows:
You will need to fly INTO Casablanca airport ( CMN Mohammad V Intl Airport) and fly OUT of Marakkech (RAK - Marrakesh Menara Airport ). If you need help booking your flights, please reach out, I can help!
****PLEASE DO NOT BUY FLIGHTS UNTIL I CONFIRM THE TRIP HAS MET MINIMUM AMOUNT OF GUESTS, I WILL SEND AND EMAIL TO CONFIRM****
- Drinks other that water during our driving trips, any alcohol
- Tips to guide and driver (suggested $10-20/day )
- Entrances to museums and attractions (approx $85 USD)
- Trip insurance. Comprehensive travel insurance should be purchased. I usually use World Nomads, but there is also Safety Wing, Med Jet, and others. This should cover illness as well as any unexpected tour interruptions/cancellations as this is not covered on your trip with Never Lost Travel.
Your spot is held when we receive your NONREFUNDABLE deposit . Please note that this deposit is not transferable once received and trip is confirmed with minimum amount of guests.
Final payments are due 100 days prior to departure. For your convenience, a payment plan has been applied. You are able to pay partially or full amount by either credit card or bank account(Bank accounts do not incur credit card fees). Please let me know if you would like to not have the payment plan, but payments in FULL are due by December 15, 2026.
Never Lost Travel does not offer refunds for testing positive for COVID or any other illness, please acquire travel insurance for this purpose.
In the event that you need to cancel your trip, these fees will be applied:
● Within now-100 days of travel: Never Lost Travel retains only non refundable deposit once trip is confirmed.
● Within 99 and 60 days of travel: 50% of tour price.
● Within 59 and 31 days of travel: 75% of tour price.
● Within 30 and 1 days of travel: 100% of tour price.
FULL DEPOSIT DUE NO LATER THAN December 1, 2025.
TRIP MUST BE PAID IN FULL NO LATER THAN 100 DAYS PRIOR TO TRIP DATE MARCH 25, 2026.
Never Lost Travel reserves the right to hold payments according to the cancellation policy above to pay our vendors to make the trip.
What's the pace of this trip?
This is a moderately paced trip. Please keep in mind, there is a significant amount of driving on this tour. I have done my best to slow the pace down so as to not spend all our time in a bus! I want you to be able to enjoy your tour walking around the beautiful areas! But alas, driving is the best way to get around to see Morocco as well as keep prices more reasonable. We have listed the driving times in the day by day itinerary.
When should I get my flights?
I suggest getting flights anywhere from 3-6 months ahead of time. We have to have a minimum of 6 people to book the trip, so please CHECK WITH ME PRIOR TO BOOKING YOUR FLIGHT. I will send a reminder when we have a confirmed trip to go ahead and book your flights!
**Keep in mind this is a multi-city flight. You will need to fly INTO Casablanca Morocco (CMN Mohammad V Intl Airport) and fly OUT of Marakkech (RAK - Marrakesh Menara Airport ). If you need help booking your flights, please reach out, I can help! ***
What's should I wear?
Morocco is a Muslim country that is relatively relaxed, but you'll still draw lot of unpleasant and unwanted attention if you choose to go out in revealing clothing. Choose to wear something that covers your knees and shoulders and doesn't reveal too much bare chest when you are out in
public. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. It may get quite cold in some areas we visit, so if you tend to be cold, make sure you bring warm clothes.
Can I drink the water?
Do NOT drink the water/brush your teeth with the water in Morocco. Plan to drink bottled/filtered water for your trip. For these occasions, I suggest getting a prophylactic antibiotic from your doctor for "traveler's diarrhea".
What immunizations do I need to get?
Routine immunizations are recommended such as measles, mumps, flu, tetanus. Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B is also recommended if you have not had these prior. COVID of course is recommended as well. A more unusual one would be the typhoid vaccine. Please refer to the CDC website and your primary doctor's discretion.
What currency do they use?
Local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (Dirhams)
The dirham is a closed currency, and you can only obtain it once in Morocco, and it should not be taken out of the country. Changing it - or spending it - once you've gone through airport security is next to impossible, so be sure to spend your dirham before getting to the airport.
Credit cards can be used in hotels, major restaurants, and shops, but not in many other places. There are ATMs now in most of the major towns that will accept Cirrus debit cards and credit cards for cash advances, and money can be changed at the main bank branches.
ATMs are hard to find in the medinas.
CASH IS KING IN MOROCCO! Most places prefer cash and paying with credit or debit card may be difficult. Carry small change on hand to offer some small tips to local people as you wish.
Alcohol
While alcohol is available in Morocco, it’s not as widely accessible as in many Western countries. You won’t find bars on every corner, and in some towns—especially more conservative areas—it may be limited or frowned upon. That said, in larger cities and tourist-friendly areas, it is possible to purchase wine, beer, or spirits, and our guides can assist with finding appropriate locations when available.
Please note that drinking in public is not culturally acceptable and being visibly intoxicated in public spaces is strictly discouraged. We absolutely want you to enjoy your trip and unwind with a drink if you like—we can accommodate! Just be mindful and respectful of local customs along the way.
Landing in Casablanca Airport, escort to Riad in Rabat . ( Today no activities or Meals )
Drive: 1.5 - 2 hours from airport to Riad
Meals: None
Accommodation : Riad ZYO or similar
Breakfast at hotel:
This morning we visit the Imperial Town of Rabat. Morocco has four Imperial Cities (former capital cities) and we will visit 3 of them!
We will visit The Hassan Tower, a looming minaret which stands on the hill overlooking the Wadi Bou Regreg. It is nestled in a large mosque that dates back to the 12th century. Next door, we visit the beautiful Mausoleum of Mohammed V that holds the tombs of many Morocco's old kings. Decorated with stained glass windows, white marble and a wrought-iron entryway it is a sight to behold.
After our morning tour we will head to "The Blue Pearl" - Chefchouen, a beautiful city noted for its blue washed Medina center. To get to this charming city, is to dive into a labyrinth that is unlike any other Moroccan old city, and yet it has a perfect order and harmony. Here you will see its square"Outta Hammam" that is a center of all the inhabitants, holding the large mosque and a unique Kasbah.
The blue city of Chefchaouen is one of the most charming and emblematic cities in Morocco. With a calm medina nestled between the Rif mountains. Chefchaouen is extraordinarily picturesque, ideal for those who like to explore a city with freedom and to take photos, and for those who find delight in the details, in terms of culture or architecture. Enjoy the view over the city, with its soft and continuous shades bathed in light, from the top of a hill.
Overnight in Chefchaouen.
Drive: 165 miles (almost 4 hours to Chefchaouen)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Riad Hicham or simliar
Breakfast in the hotel.
Time to discover Chefchaouen!
We will walk around the town with its blue washed walls originally decorated in this style by the Jewish immigrants. The Medina is the focal point of interest for most visitors to Chefchaouen.
Lunch in a local restaurant
After lunch visit the spectacular waterfalls of Ras El Maa. To the east of the city center, it is a common meeting point for local residents who come to cool off, chat and do their laundry (including carpets on sunny Sundays).
Around 4:00 PM, we’ll begin the drive to Fes (approx. 3.5 hours), arriving in the evening for dinner and check-in at your hotel.
After we will drive to Fez to continue our tour. Fez is a 125 mile drive, or a little over 2 hour ride. Check in Fes Riadl, dinner at hotel.
Drive: 125 miles or a little over 2 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Riad Ahlam/Riad Fes Nass Zmane
After breakfast at your riad, you'll meet your local guide and begin your deep dive into the cultural and historical richness of Fes. Your day begins with a visit to the impressive Royal Palace, with its iconic golden doors and beautifully detailed architecture. From there, you’ll explore the Mellah, the old Jewish Quarter, known for its unique layout and centuries of layered history.
Next, you'll visit the University of al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 AD. Originally a mosque, it evolved into one of the world’s oldest and most influential centers of learning. From there, head to the Chouara Tannery—Fes’s most famous and oldest tannery—where you'll get a bird’s-eye view of the colorful dye pits from nearby terraces, watching artisans continue centuries-old leather-making traditions.
The journey continues as you wind through the narrow alleys of the Fes medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the largest pedestrian-only urban areas in the world. Browse the bustling souks filled with spices, textiles, and handcrafted treasures. Stop for a delicious traditional lunch tucked into one of the medina’s quieter corners, a true taste of Moroccan hospitality.
Later, you'll visit a local ceramics and tile workshop, where you’ll see skilled artisans shaping and painting Morocco’s famous zellige tiles—and even have the chance to try it yourself. After a full day of exploration, return to your riad for a relaxing evening in the heart of the old city.
Driving: NONE! :)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Riad Ahlam/Riad Fes Nass Zmane
- Breakfast at hotel
This is a significant driving day. BUT we are going to see some beautiful sights along the way!
After breakfast, we will leave Fes travelling towards Ifrane, a beautiful mountain village, referred to as “the Switzerland of Morocco” and then on to Midelt. During this journey you’ll experience glimpses of the Middle Atlas and Higher Atlas mountains. Stopping in the middle of the famous cedar forest – the largest in Morocco, where you may sight Barbary apes. After some time within the forest, your journey continues to Midelt and will be travelling through the fascinating TizNtalghamt pass and the Ziz Gorge, taking in views of the High Atlas Mountains. You’ll notice how the scenery changes to reveal hints of the desert as you approach the city of Errachidia, where you will have lunch and enjoy the Berber hospitality. Afterwards, you will travel along the Ziz Valley, stopping for panoramic views along the way to Erfoud and then on to Merzouga.
-Check in Riad Azawad/Riad Chebbi. Dinner At Riad
Drive: 250 miles or about 6 hours in total with a break in between for lunch
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Riad Azawad/Riad Chebbi
Breakfast at Riad.
Today, your Sahara journey begins in the Merzouga desert region. We’ll start with a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the golden dunes, followed by a visit to nomadic Berber families near the Moroccan-Algerian border. Enjoy traditional tea under their tents and learn how they live in this harsh yet beautiful landscape.
Next, we’ll explore the old M’ifis mines, then head to Khamlia village, home to the Gnawa people. Here, you’ll be treated to a live Gnawa music performance and taste the famous Berber pizza, a hearty local favorite.
In the late afternoon, mount your camel for a sunset trek across the dunes to your desert camp. After dinner under the stars, gather around the fire for music and storytelling before sleeping beneath one of the clearest night skies on earth.
Overnight in the Sahara.
Drive: We are not traveling long distances in the car, but more exploring around Merzouga desert region
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Moonlight Desert Camp or similar
After a leisurely breakfast, we depart the golden dunes of the Sahara around 10 a.m. and head toward Rissani, the nearest town to the Erg Chebbi desert. Once an important trading hub between the 14th and 18th centuries, Rissani is rich in history and home to the region’s largest traditional souk, where locals come to trade everything from dates to sheep and cattle. If the timing is right, you’ll get to experience the bustling energy of this authentic market in action.
From there, we continue to the breathtaking Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon carved by the Todra River. This natural wonder is a favorite among rock climbers from around the world—keep your eyes peeled and you just might catch them scaling the towering cliffs. Nearby, some nomadic families still live in the surrounding caves, offering a glimpse into a traditional way of life that continues today.
After a scenic walk along the gorge’s cool, freshwater stream, we journey onward to the peaceful town of Dades. Nestled in a lush valley dotted with fruit trees and surrounded by dramatic rock formations, Dades offers a perfect contrast to the desert. You’ll settle in for the night at a charming riad, tucked into this tranquil Berber town and have dinner.
Drive: 228 miles about 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Ksar Sultan Dades / Riad Dades Paradise
After breakfast at your riad, your Moroccan journey continues along the legendary "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs", winding through the striking Dades Valley en route to Ouarzazate. Along the way, you’ll pass through Kelaat M’Gouna, known for its fragrant rose fields and rosewater cooperatives, as well as the palm-filled oasis of Skoura.
Upon arriving in Ouarzazate—nicknamed the Hollywood of Africa—you’ll explore the famous Atlas Film Studios, where scenes from countless blockbusters were filmed. Channel your inner Russell Crowe, because this is where parts of Gladiator were brought to life (cue the dramatic stare into the distance...).
Next, you'll head to the stunning Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic ksars (fortified villages) in all of Morocco. Its dramatic earthen architecture has been featured in Game of Thrones, Lawrence of Arabia, and of course, Gladiator.
Enjoy lunch with a view of this cinematic landscape, soaking in the atmosphere that once set the stage for epic battles on screen.
After lunch, the adventure continues over the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains, through charming Berber villages and the winding roads of Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest mountain pass in Morocco. Along the way, you’ll stop at scenic viewpoints for unforgettable photo opportunities and moments to simply breathe in the beauty of the landscape.
You’ll arrive in Marrakech around sunset and check into your riad. Time permitting, you may enjoy a short evening stroll to get your first glimpse of the city’s energy before diving deeper with a local guide the following day.
Drive: 6 hours with break in between for lunch
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Riad Al Rimal / Riad Bahia Salam
This morning, around 9:00–10:00 AM, your local guide will meet you at your riad to begin a full day of exploring Marrakech, the vibrant “Red City” known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere.
Your tour begins in the heart of the city at Jemaa el-Fna Square, one of the most iconic and energetic public spaces in the world. Dating back to the 11th century, this UNESCO-recognized square is a buzzing hub of musicians, storytellers, food stalls, and local life.
Next, step back in time with a visit to the Saadian Tombs, beautifully preserved mausoleums from the Saadian dynasty (1578–1603), followed by the elegant Bahia Palace, built in the late 19th century and intended to be the most magnificent palace of its era—adorned with intricate tilework, painted ceilings, and peaceful courtyards.
You’ll also pass by the Koutoubia Mosque, a masterpiece of 12th-century Almohad architecture and the largest mosque in Marrakech. While non-Muslims are not permitted to enter, the exterior is an architectural highlight and a key landmark of the city.
Later, wander through the winding alleys of the old medina, discovering traditional souks bursting with color—spices, textiles, lanterns, and handcrafted treasures await around every corner.
After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant in the medina, you have the option to explore the more modern side of Marrakech. Visit the serene Majorelle Garden, a lush botanical escape painted in bold blues and once owned by Yves Saint Laurent. If you wish, you can also explore the nearby YSL Museum, dedicated to the designer’s life and work.
The late afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at your own pace. Relax, sip mint tea, or dive deeper into the magic of Marrakech on your own.
Overnight in Marrakech.
Drive: NONE! :)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Riad Al Rimal / Riad Bahia Salam
Breakfast at Riad in Marrakesh & then to Marrakesh Airport & fly home
Farewell to Morocco!!
Drive: None (except to airport)
Meals: Breakfast