Is Morocco on YOUR Bucket List?

A trip to Morocco is like visiting a dozen different countries!

From the gorgeous red dunes of the Sahara Desert and the maze-like souqs of Fez, to the dazzling blue city of Chefchaeoen and the Alps-like High Atlas mountains, and the exotic romance of the kasbah of Casablanca and spice bazaars of Marrakesh - you will be overcome with the sights, sounds and aromas of Morocco!

Bucket List Travel is excited to offer this amazing 10-day, 9-night grand tour of Morocco that reveals the cultural diversity, history, and beauty of Morocco—and so much more.

Stop dreaming; start packing!!

MINIMUM OF 2 GUESTS REQUIRED TO RUN THIS TRIP, OR THERE WILL BE A SURCHARGE.

One of the best times to visit Morocco is in October. The country experiences a Mediterranean climate, so in October the weather is ideal for travel: warm and comfortable - not too hot, and not too cold.

Inland cities like Marrakech see lows near 60 degrees F and highs around 82 degrees F.

Coastal Casablanca is milder, averaging around 66–77 degrees F.

Traveling during this off-season in Morocco also offers the benefit of fewer tourists, lower prices, and a more authentic experience of the local culture.

This moderately-paced, escorted tour covers  912 miles in 10 days - which means a lot of time on a bus. We will have free water, snacks and wifi on the tour bus every day, and will stop frequently for rest stops and tours. The longest day spent on the bus is between Fez and Erfoud, which is approximately 7 hours. 

The tour includes a reasonable amount of walking and requires an average level of physical fitness. Most of the sightseeing stops are between one to three hours.

We find our guests are happiest when they can roll with delays and last-minute changes that may happen in the unpredictable world of north African travel. 

The best things you can bring with you are flexibility, patience, and a sense of humor!

Please plan to fly into Rabat (Rabat–Salé Airport), and depart out of Marrakech (Marrakech Menara International Airport.)

You need to be in Rabat on Friday, October 16, 2026, which means you will probably need to depart the USA on Thursday, October 15, 2026. It is best if you select a flight which arrives in Rabat no later than 3 PM. If your flight would arrive after that time, you should fly in a day earlier (arriving Thursday, October 15, 2026) and we will arrange a hotel for you that night at an additional cost.

Plan to depart from Marrakech in the evening on Sunday, October 25, 2026.

Please ASK US if you have any questions before you purchase your airfare!

Morocco has fantastic cuisine and the food will doubtless be a real highlight of your trip. 

There are two dishes for which Morocco is especially well-known: tagine and couscous. 

Tagine is a stew cooked in a conical earthenware pot, and often involves some contrast of sweet and sour: so whilst being essentially meat-based, you will find raisins, dates or almonds in there as well. 

Couscous, steamed semolina grains, is a real staple of Moroccan food. Served on a huge communal plate it is topped with a variety of things — chicken, lamb and steamed vegetables are the most common. Meat, other than in the forms above, is normally roast chicken or lamb, which is often served as brochettes — barbecued skewers.

Green mint tea is a ceremonial beverage deep-rooted in the Moroccan traditions. Mint tea is often used to welcome guests in a friendly atmosphere. This thirst-quenching tea is served in a small, colourful glass. Whether it’s served in the city or in the countryside, green mint tea is traditionally poured from three feet high. 

The best Moroccan pastries are msemen (square-shaped pancakes), batbout (similar to pitta), harcha (pan-fried semolina bread) and baghrir (Moroccan pancakes), among others. You won’t be able to get these anywhere else in the world - or at least nothing nearly as good as the ones made by Moroccan women. 

We will have guided tours each day led by professional licensed tour guides from Morocco.

Here is what we will see: 

Rabat  - 1 night 

• The Hassan Tower, which stands on the hill overlooking the Wadi Bou Regreg

• The white marble Mausoleum of Mohammed V decorated with stained glass windows 

• Ville Nouvelle. The new town has wide boulevards, open green spaces and avenues

• Walk into the former ex-pirate citadels and fortress of Salé Kasbah des Oudayas

Chefchaouen - 1 night

• Beautiful scenic views through the Rif Mountains during the drive to Chefchaouen

• The old Medina and souk with its narrow winding alleys

• The central square Place Uta El‑Hammam and the lovely fortress known as the Kasbah

Fez - 2 nights 

• Visiting the Romain ruins of Volubilis

• The old Jewish Quarter 

• The 14th Century Palace Gates of the King 

• The Karaouine Mosque, Attarine Madrasa 

• Panoramic visit of New Fez

Merzouga - 2 nights 

• A full-day desert excursion.

• Ride a 4x4 vehicle for a tour of nearby Berber villages and a visit to nomadic families.

• Uncover traditional Gnaoua music in the village of Khamlia, played by Sub-Saharan African tribe descendants.

• A sunset camel rides into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.

• Have a traditional Berber dinner, stargaze, campfire storytelling, and sandboarding.

Ouarzazate - 1 night

• Visit Atlas Film Studios, where movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were filmed.

• Explore the iconic clay fortress of Ait Ben Haddou: a UNESCO-listed Ksar and the backdrop for many famous films.

• Cross the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass.

• Arrive in the vibrant city of Marrakech by evening.

• Optional Cooking class upon arrival in Marrakesh ( $55 USD PP )

Marrakesh - 2 nights

• Majorelle Garden 

• The Koutoubia Mosque - one of Marrakesh’s iconic minarets 

• The Bahia Palace—a richly decorated 19th‑century palace with gardens and stunning craftsmanship

• The vibrant souks (markets) of the medina  

• Jemaa El‑Fnaa square: street performers, food stalls, and lively local atmosphere

• Cooking class of Moroccan cuisine 

Please take a look at the detailed Itinerary below for more information about each location.

International travel is often challenging, and sometimes changes in the itinerary or accommodation are unavoidable. 

If changes are needed, Bucket List Travel will always make our best efforts to provide alternatives that are equal to or better than what was originally planned.

Morocco is a relatively relaxed Muslim country, but you'll still draw lot of unpleasant and unwanted attention if you wear revealing clothing. When you are out in public, you should wear something that covers your knees and shoulders, and doesn't reveal too much cleavage.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating bustling markets and uneven terrain in rural areas.

A versatile scarf can serve multiple purposes—providing warmth during chilly nights or protection from sun exposure during daytime excursions.

Bring a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket.  It may get cold in some areas, so if you tend to be cold, make sure you bring warm clothes.

This 10-day, 9-night adventure is priced $3,985 per person double occupancy (not including airfare to and from Morocco). Single supplement is $850.

The entire cost of the trip must be paid by two months before departure (August 16, 2026.)

Please note: if you choose to pay using a credit card, there will be a 3% fee added.

You can avoid this fee by paying directly from your bank account.

In the event that you need to cancel your trip, these fees will be applied:

• Between 150-101 days before your arrival date, amount of deposit.

• Between 100-61 days before your arrival date, 25% of the entire tour price.

• Between 60 and 46 days before your arrival date, 50% of the entire tour price.

• Between 45 and 31 days before your arrival date, 75% of the entire tour price.

• Between 30 and 1 days before your arrival date, 100% of the entire tour price.

Local currency is the Moroccan Dirham  (DEE-rahm). 

As of April 24, 2026, the exchange rate was 9.28 dirhams to $1 USD.

The dirham is a closed currency and you can only obtain it once in Morocco, and it cannot 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.

There are no vaccines required to enter Morocco.

All international travelers should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination.  These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

CDC recommends these vaccines for travelers to Morocco:

• Hepatitis A and B

• Typhoid

Please make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel. 

9 Nights in 5-star and 4-Star hotels with breakfasts and dinners included:

1 Night Rabat - Onomo Rabat Terminus Hotel or similar

1 Night Chefchaouen - Riad Hisham Hotel or similar

2 Nights Fez -Royal Mirage Fez Hotel or similar

2 Nights Merzouga - Luxury Camp or similar

1 Night Ouarzazate - Karam Ouarzazate Hotel or similar

2 Nights Marrakesh = Kenzi Rose Garden Hotel or similar

When you’re walking through the markets, be careful when taking photos of people and shops. People may get angry at you and even demand money for the photos.

When taking photos of the snake charmers, you will be expected to pay 20 DH (about $3 USD). Some may even hassle you for more, so it’s good to first establish a price before taking a photo.

Can I drink the water?

NO. Make sure you always drink bottled water. Use bottled water to brush your teeth; don't open your mouth in the shower; and don't get ice cubes in your drinks.

Should I haggle for prices in the souqs?

YES! There will be no marked prices, so ask the cost of something you like - and expect a ridiculous price. Quickly decide how much you'd like to pay, and offer a little less than that amount. This will allow you to increase your price when the real negotiations begin. Always have a firm final price in mind, and don't go over it. If you don't come to an agreed price, politely say no thank you and walk away. Many times you'll find your final offer will be accepted. Don't trouble yourself wondering if you could have gotten a lower price.. If you paid a price you were happy with, that's all that matters.

Are pickpockets a problem?

As in big cities anywhere in the world, pickpockets will be working in crowded areas. Be very aware if anyone gets unusually close to you, or if several people surround you closely. Just be smart, and you'll be fine.

What language is spoken in Morocco?

Moroccans speak Arabic, Berber, andd French. English is spoken in most areas, but French is more common. English is not used as widely so if you don’t speak French, you may be challenged at times to communicate.

What can I buy in the souk?

Moroccan souks are frenetic, noisy and crowded, and sell a wide variety of crafts and souvenirs. Most popular purchases are ceramics, leather goods, carpets, textiles, spices, jewellery, lamps, shoes and everything in between.

What should I pack?

Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).

What is the government of Morocco?

Politics of Morocco take place in a framework of a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, whereby the Prime Minister of Morocco is the head of government, and of a multi-party system. Executive power is exercised by the government. Mohammed VI is the King of Morocco. He belongs to the 'Alawi dynasty and ascended to the throne on July 23, 1999, upon the death of his father, King Hassan II.

Moroccan leather

The leather in Morocco is highly unique and tanned in a way that hasn’t changed in centuries.  You can get leather slippers, bags, jackets, wallets, belts and much more.

Argan oil

Argan trees grow in the south of Morocco, so it is a great place to buy Argan oil that is as natural as possible, made in the traditional Berber way. It is used for culinary and cosmetic reasons, and although it is widely famous for its benefits on all kinds of hair, it is also extremely efficient on acne and skin in general.

Lanterns

Lanterns make for great souvenirs, as their detailed features instantly remind you of the beauty of Morocco. They can be found in most markets and come in different sizes, shapes and materials. Beware of the aluminium ones, as they bend easily and might be a hassle to transport. The heaviest ones might be more expensive.

Rugs and carpets

Beautiful rugs are handmade in Morocco. Rug shops usually have a wide range of carpets on display and can even customise them and ship them to your home.

Babouche (also called  belgha)

Babouche means slipper in French and is widely known as such in the Kingdom.. Slippers are traditional Moroccan shoes, worn for centuries by men, women and children. They come in all colors, materials, patterns and shapes. The prettiest ones are vibrant and can be worn everywhere.

What is a souk?

Being a popular place of trade, the Souk means Market in Arabic. It's the traditional supermarket of all Moroccans. You can go there find everything in a welcoming atmosphere ! In the urban environment, the souk usually nestles in the old medinas.

What is a Medina?

Medina means city in Arabic, and refers to the old towns as part of several Moroccan cities. Often walled and characterized by its intertwined alleyways, the medinas are home to traditions and culture, architecture and crafts. Those of Fez and Marrakech are the most famous ones.

What is a kasbah?

The Kasbah, which is built out of mud and straw, is a fortified building defined as several structures behind a defensive wall widely seen in the south of Morocco. Being home to lords, this fortified castle is an important heritage of Moroccan architecture and the villages. 

What is a Hammam?

Inherited from the Romans, the traditional Hammam plays an important part in Moroccans' everyday life, and represents a convivial space. The Hammam ritual includes: steam bath similar to sauna, skin exfoliation and showering.

What is a Riad?

The Riad, which means garden in Arabic, is an old house typical of the great Moroccan families. Composed of several rooms overlooking a patio with a fountain and a picture perfect garden, the Riad has wonderful craftsmanship and architectural work.

What is Zellige?

Zellige is the name given to the ornate and colourful tilework that can be found in many elegant buildings around Morocco. Small pieces of colourful tile are shaped by hand, using a fine chisel, and then set into white plaster to create intricate designs. In keeping with Islamic principles, designs are generally of geometric formations or flower-like patterns.

When you arrive at the airport in Rabat,  you will be met by a representative from Bucket List Travel holding a sign with your name on it.

He will escort you to your hotel (about 30 minutes).

You will have free time at the hotel until dinner, served right at the hotel.

Accommodations: Onomo Rabat Terminus Hotel or similar

This morning we'll tour Rabat, Morocco's seaside capital which rests along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and the Bouregreg River.

Rabat has a real European feel, with cafés lining the streets, a selection of fine restaurants, and landmarks that speak to its Islamic and French-colonial heritage. 

We'll see the Royal Palace exterior, and the iconic Hassan Tower, which stands on the hill overlooking the Wadi Bou Regreg providing an imposing spectacle visible for miles around. The tower, along with the remains of the mosque and the white marble Mausoleum of Mohammed V, forms an important historical and tourist complex in Rabat. The mausoleum contains the tombs of the Moroccan king Mohammed V and his two sons, the late King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. Step in to see intricate zellij, carved cedar, and Qur’anic calligraphy, plus views across to Hassan Tower.

We'll explore the ancient Kasbah of the Udayas - a small, fortified city within Rabat which dates to the 1100s. It’s now a charming little neighborhood with colorful streets and bustling cafes. Walking through a remarkable masterpiece of Almohad architecture, built between 1121 and 1269, this historical fortress once served as the city’s primary line of defense.

From there, we'll take a panoramic drive through Ville Nouvelle, the modern, European-style district built during the French colonial era (early 20th century). Unlike the traditional, dense, and walled medinas, it features wide boulevards, Art Deco architecture, modern commercial hubs, and green spaces, offering a stark contrast to the historic centers. 

We'll have lunch at Marina Sale (also known as Bouregreg Marina), a modern, upscale waterfront development located on the Bouregreg River in Salé. It acts as a vibrant hub for boating, dining, and luxury living while offering direct views of the historic Hassan Tower and the city of Rabat.

This afternoon, we'll drive into the Rif Mountains on our way to Chefchaouen, where we'll wander its tranquil, blue-washed lanes.

Arrive at your Riad , and enjoy dinner at our hotel.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Accommodations: Riad Hisham Hotel or similar

Rabat to Chefchaouen: 155 miles

After breakfast at your hotel, we'll explore Chefchaouen, the exquisite Blue Pearl of Morocco. Chefchaouen lies nestled in the Rif Mountains at an altitude of 1,840 feet. The city is painted in various shades of blue, a custom that dates back to the 15th

century, when an influx of Jews escaping the Spanish Inquisition settled there. They brought the tradition of painting buildings blue to mirror the sky and remind them of God.

You will start with the old Medina to wander through its narrow winding alleys, and soak in the distinctive blue-washed buildings which give the town its nickname. The narrow blue pedestrian streets give way to wide squares and breathtaking views

over the lush valley below. Chefchaouen boasts one of the most hassle-free medinas in all of Morocco, with boutique shops selling beautiful crafts made right in the city.

You will visit the central square, the Place Uta El-Hammam, and the lovely fortress known as the Kasbah. The Kasbah houses a small ethnographic museum and has a tower with a spectacular view over the beautiful blue town.

We'll have a walking tour of the Medina, and visit Ras El Maa waterfall.

Then you have some free time to take beautiful photos of the blue houses and alleys, and do some shopping.

This afternoon, we'll drive south through the Rif Mountains to Fez.

On the way, we'll visit the impressive Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO site. Dating back to the third century BC, the city marked the western edge of the Roman Empire. We’ll wander through the streets admiring the buildings, olive presses, and

beautifully preserved mosaics. 

Continue to the imperial city of Meknes to admire the imposing Bab El Mansour Gate and royal stables, then arrive in Fez by evening.

You'll enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Meals: breakfast, dinner

Accommodations: Royal Mirage Fez Hotel or similar

Chefchaouen to Fez: 122 miles

Today you will have a full day tour in the beguiling medieval city of Fez, the country’s cultural capital. Once a world center of influence, Fez is a heritage site, and for centuries life there has largely gone on unchanged. It is primarily known for its Fez El Bali walled Medina, with medieval Marinid architecture, vibrant souks, and old-world atmosphere.

You will visit the Mellah, or Jewish Quarter, established in Fez in 1438. A walk through the Mellah provides a throwback to an earlier epoch. You will see the restored 17th century Ibn Danan Synagogue and an arresting Jewish Cemetery with 400-year-old tombstones.

When you stroll beneath the famous blue gate of Bab Boujeloud, the iconic, ornate western entrance to the Fez Medina, you are transported 1,000 years back in time. The gate features stunning blue mosaic tiles (representing Fez pottery) on the outside, and green tiles (representing Islam) on the inside. It serves as the primary entrance for tourists exploring the dense maze of the old city.

You will see the Karaouine Mosque, founded in 859. It has expanded over successive dynasties until it became the largest mosque in North Africa. There are tiles, plasterwork, woodcarvings, paintings, and courtyards, which all add to the overall allure of this prestigious building. The building has undergone roughly 1,000 years of development, so you will see unusual differences in architectural and decorative style in this now massive building.

The UNESCO World Heritage Medina of Fez is the oldest and largest in North Africa. The Medina is home to religious schools such as the 14th-century Bou Inania and Al Attarine, both decorated with elaborate cedar carvings and ornate tile work.

There are well over 60 public fountains inside the Medina, and one of the finest is the Nejjarine Fountain. Built in the 18th century, it features zellige (colorful geometric mosaic tile work) and stucco that form patterns as delicate as lacework.

Relax at the end of the day with dinner at your hotel.

Meals: breakfast, dinner

Accommodations: Royal Mirage Fez Hotel or similar

After breakfast at your hotel, we will leave Fez and and head for the south of Morocco, crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains.

You'll pass through the charming town of Ifrane (“Switzerland of Morocco”), cedar forests in Azrou, and the dramatic Ziz Valley till you reach Erfoud .

You'll stop for an authentic lunch on the way.

Then, driving the road from Erfoud to Merzouga is a fascinating transition from oases to the Sahara Desert.

Soon you'll arrive at your luxury dessert camp in Merzouga.

Enjoy your dinner in the desert at the camp..

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Accommodations: Luxury Desert Camp or similar

Fez to Merzouga: 287 miles

Today after breakfast, you'll start an exciting full-day desert excursion.

You'll safari in a 4x4 vehicle for a tour of the nearby Berber villages, and visit nomadic families.

We'll uncover traditional Gnaoua music played by Sub-Saharan African tribe descendants in the village of Khamlia.

We'll end our beautiful day in the Sahara with camel rides into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, a stunning, 17-mile-long sea of majestic, fire-orange sand dunes in southeastern Morocco

The best way to end a day in the desert is to partake in a traditional Berber dinner, a rustic, communal feast centered around hospitality. It typically features three main courses: steaming couscous, slow-cooked meat and vegetables in a clay tagine, and Madfouna (Berber pizza)—a spiced meat pie traditionally buried and baked directly in the hot desert. While waiting for dinner, we'll stargaze at the spectacular desert sky, and tell stories around a campfire.

After a full day, you'll sleep soundly in your luxurious tent at Merzouga Luxury Camp.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Accommodations: Luxury Desert Camp or similar

This morning, we'll leave our Sahara desert adventure and continue to explore southern Morocco.

We'll head west through desert landscapes toward the dramatic Todra Gorges, a spectacular set of limestone river canyons in Morocco's High Atlas Mountains. They are famous for their dramatic, towering cliffs that reach up to 1,000 feet high and narrow to just 33 feet wide in places. You’ll take a short walk along the river beneath the towering rock walls.

On our way, we stop to visit a unique underground irrigation system.

After enjoying an authentic Moroccan lunch on the road, we'll continue along the "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs," an iconic route in southern Morocco that traces ancient caravan trails between Marrakesh and the Sahara Desert. It winds through the Atlas Mountains and river valleys, famous for striking mud-brick fortresses (kasbahs) and vibrant oasis towns.

By evening, we'll reach Ouarzazate, the gateway to the High Atlas Mountains.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Accommodations: Karam Ouarzazate Hotel or similar

Merzouga to Ouarzazate: 229 miles

This morning, you'll step into the scenes of epic Hollywood movies at Atlas Film Studios in Ouarzazate.

We'll explore the iconic clay fortress of Ait BenHaddou, a stunning, centuries-old fortified village. It sits 112 miles southeast of Marrakech, and is famous for its towering mud-brick clay castles. It has appeared as the backdrop for major films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

We'll explore this historical site before crossing the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, which connects the vibrant city of Marrakech with the desert gateway of Ouarzazote. The 34-mile route features steep grades and thrilling, tight turns.

By evening, we'll arrive in the vibrant city of Marrakech.

This evening, we'll relax with a nice dinner at the hotel.

Optional cooking class upon arrival in Marrakesh ($55 USD PP. )

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Accommodations: Kenzi Rose Garden Hotel or similar

Ourzazate to Marrakech: 120 miles

Today is dedicated to an up-close look at the spellbinding city of Marrakesh. The city has it all: Colorful souks selling handmade crafts and hand-woven Berber rugs, stunning gardens draped in flowers, and restaurants serving up delicious Moroccan cuisine.

You will start the morning with a visit to the spectacular Majorelle Garden with its abundance of giant bamboo, yucca, papyrus, palm, cypress and banana trees, philodendrons and bougainvillea and amazing cacti with natural colors. They contrast vividly with the bright blue facade of the villa, which was lovingly restored by the late Yves Saint Laurent and where he spent much of his leisure time. Have a tour of the gardens and wander in the fabulous boutiques by the garden.

Later, you'll visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakesh. Founded in 1147, the mosque has the most iconic minaret in the city, considered an important landmark and symbol of Marrakesh.

Then you'll visit the giant Bahia Palace, a 19th-century residence in the old city, where we’ll admire the painted wood ceilings, stained glass windows, and intricately carved doors.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we'll head for the vibrant souks (markets) within the high red walls of the Medina. We'll soak up the atmosphere here in this

colorful hubbub that echoes Morocco's vibrant soul.

Finally, you will tour the iconic souks of Jemaa El-Fna Square ("assembly place of the nobodies"), a vibrant hub of vendors, musicians, fortune-tellers, and snake charmers that springs to life every afternoon and parties on until midnight.

We'll enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, before turning in for our last night in Morocco.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Accommodations: Kenzi Rose Garden Hotel or similar

After breakfast, we'll transfer to the airport, and bid farewell to enchanting, amazing Morocco.

Meals: breakfast