8 days New Year morocco trip

Experience the Magic of Morocco in 8 Days: A Detailed Review of the New Year Tour

Traveling through Morocco in just over a week might seem ambitious, but this 8-day New Year Morocco trip offers a well-balanced mix of iconic sights, culture, and adventure. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the serenity of the Sahara Desert, this tour aims to give travelers a taste of the country’s diversity.

What really stands out are the thoughtfully curated stops—like the horse-drawn carriage ride through Marrakech by night, the stunning vistas of Roses Valley, and the unforgettable camel trek into the Sahara. Plus, the inclusion of local guides and cozy hotels makes this a comfortable yet authentic experience.

A possible consideration is that the tour’s pace can be quite full, especially with early mornings and long drives. But if you’re someone who loves to see as much as possible and doesn’t mind a busy schedule, this tour fits the bill.

Ideal for families, friends, or solo travelers eager for a comprehensive Moroccan adventure, this trip delivers a memorable way to ring in the New Year amidst stunning landscapes and vibrant cities.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major highlights including Marrakech, Sahara, Chefchaouen, and Casablanca.
• Authentic Experiences: Horse carriage rides, local guides, desert camp, and medina tours.
• Value for Money: At just over $1,290 per person, the tour offers a mix of cultural sights, activities, and comfortable accommodations.
• Group Focused: Private tour with a dedicated driver-guide ensures personalized service.
• Active Schedule: Expect early starts, long drives, and a busy timetable, perfect for energetic travelers.
• Inclusive Hospitality: Breakfast, dinners, desert camp, and local guides included boost the overall value.

Explore the Full Itinerary and What It Means for You

Day 1: Casablanca to Marrakech via Hassan II Mosque

Your Moroccan adventure begins in Casablanca, with a quick stop to admire the iconic Hassan II Mosque—a stunning architectural feat with its towering minaret and intricate details. It’s free to photograph, and you’ll get a chance to soak in the grandeur. After that, the journey heads south to Marrakech, the city famed for its vibrant souks and history.

Arriving in Marrakech, you’ll drop off your bags at the hotel and then experience the city by horse-drawn carriage at sunset. This is one of those magical moments where you see Marrakech’s lively streets, illuminated and bustling, from a more relaxed perspective. The carriage ride is a lovely way to start absorbing the city’s energy without the crowds.

Day 2: Guided Tour of Marrakech Medina and Fantasia Show

A guided tour of Marrakech’s medina ensures you get insider knowledge on the key sites—from the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square to the historic souks. Local guides help navigate the maze of narrow streets, pointing out hidden gems and explaining the significance of each spot.

In the evening, the tour includes a Fantasia Show, a traditional Moroccan display of horsemanship, music, and dance. It’s a lively and colorful spectacle that offers a glimpse into Moroccan culture and history.

Day 3: From Marrakech to Roses Valley via Ait Ben Haddou

The drive from Marrakech to Roses Valley takes you through the dramatic Atlas Mountains—expect sweeping vistas and a sense of adventure. Along the way, you’ll visit the famed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a favorite filming location (think Gladiator and Game of Thrones).

Roses Valley (Kelaa M’Gouna) is particularly stunning during the harvesting season, with fields of roses stretching as far as the eye can see. This lush, fragrant area offers a relaxing contrast to the mountain scenery and desert landscapes ahead.

Day 4: From Roses Valley through Dades Valley to Merzouga Desert

This day packs in a variety of landscapes—mountains, gorges, and the desert. You’ll stop at Todra Gorges, where the dramatic cliffs carve through the landscape, perfect for photos. Visiting Erfoud, known for fossils and minerals, adds a geological twist to the journey.

The highlight is the camel trek at sunset into the Sahara, leading to a luxury desert camp. Here, the experience is akin to stepping into a different world—silence, starry skies, and music around the campfire create unforgettable memories. The optional fire music adds a lively touch after a day of exploration.

Day 5 & 6: From Merzouga to Fes via Ifrane and Azrou

Waking up early for sunrise over the dunes is a must—nothing beats the quiet beauty of the desert at dawn. After breakfast, the drive to Fes takes you through Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its alpine feel, and Azrou, where wild monkeys roam freely.

In Fes, the medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site—labyrinthine streets, ancient tanneries, and artisan workshops make it a sensory overload. Local guides help you navigate and appreciate this living museum.

Day 7: Fes to Chefchaouen and then Casablanca

A quick visit to Chefchaouen, the famous blue city, offers a visual feast of blue-painted walls, hilltop plazas, and narrow alleys. It’s a perfect photo stop and a chance to experience a more relaxed, artistic side of Morocco. Then, the journey returns via Casablanca, where the tour concludes.

Day 8: Departure from Casablanca

The trip wraps up with a transfer back to Casablanca, giving you a chance to reflect on an action-packed week exploring Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Transportation and Logistics

The tour uses private transport—meaning no cramped buses or waiting for others. The driver-guide is part of the experience, often sharing local insights, and the schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing while balancing travel times. Expect early mornings and some long drives, but these are offset by the comfort of private vehicles and scenic routes.

Accommodation and Meals

Staying in hotels throughout ensures a good night’s sleep after busy days. The desert camp offers a more authentic overnight in the Sahara, with dinners and breakfasts provided. The inclusion of meals adds value, keeping costs predictable, though you’ll need to budget separately for lunches and drinks.

Local Guides and Authenticity

Guided tours in Fes, Marrakech, and Chefchaouen enrich your experience, giving insider info that you wouldn’t get exploring alone. The reviews highlight how guides like Nabil and Abdel make the trip more memorable with their friendly, knowledgeable service.

Price and Value

At $1,292.02 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package covering transportation, accommodations, some meals, and key excursions. For a 8-day trip covering so many highlights, the cost is reasonable—especially considering the inclusion of desert camp and guided experiences. The fact that it’s a private tour means personalized attention, making it even more worthwhile.

Final Thoughts: Is It for You?

This tour suits travelers looking for a well-organized, culturally rich Moroccan adventure with comfort and authenticity. It’s perfect for those who like a busy schedule and want to see as much as possible without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. Families, friends, or solo explorers will find it a great way to ring in the New Year surrounded by Morocco’s stunning scenery and vibrant cities.

If you’re eager to experience the iconic sights alongside local traditions and enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, this trip offers a lot of value in just eight days. Just be prepared for early mornings and busy days—if you like a slow pace, you might find the schedule a bit packed.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The itinerary is active, so consider your kids’ stamina for early mornings and long drives.

Does the price include all excursions and activities?
Most of the key highlights like guided medinas, Sahara camel trek, and desert camp are included. However, lunch, drinks, and monument tickets are not included.

What kind of accommodations can I expect?
Comfortable hotels are included throughout the trip, with a unique desert camp experience for one night. The hotels are generally well-rated and provide a good base after busy days.

Are local guides included?
Yes, local guides in Fes, Marrakech, and Chefchaouen are part of the package, offering local insights and helping you navigate the medinas.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there is some flexibility in the schedule, but it’s structured to maximize sightseeing. Early starts and long drives are part of the plan.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
While the tour is available for New Year, Morocco is generally best visited in spring or fall for mild weather. The tour’s schedule can be adjusted based on your preferred travel dates.

How do I book or cancel this tour?
Booking is straightforward, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start. Confirmations are received at the time of booking.

Whether you’re stopping in Marrakech’s lively medinas, marveling at the Sahara’s silence, or wandering the blue streets of Chefchaouen, this 8-day trip offers a balanced view of Morocco’s diversity. It’s a fantastic way to welcome the New Year with unforgettable sights and stories, all while enjoying the comfort of private transport and guided insights.