Totally Morocco – 8 nights 9 days tour from marrakesh

Traveling through Morocco offers an intoxicating mix of vibrant cities, ancient kasbahs, stunning landscapes, and desert adventures. This Totally Morocco tour from Marrakech promises an immersive experience led by expert local guides, allowing you to see the best of the country over nearly a week. We’ve gathered all the essential details and authentic traveler insights to help you decide if this tour fits your travel style.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it combines the highlights of Morocco—from the bustling medinas of Marrakech and Fes to the cinematic kasbahs of Ait Benhaddou. Second, it offers a balanced mix of guided sightseeing and free time, which is perfect for those who want structure but also room to explore. Third, the inclusion of a camel trek into the Sahara and nights in locally owned hotels and a desert camp delivers real, memorable moments.

However, one potential consideration is the long driving days—some travelers mentioned that the schedule can feel packed, with limited time to truly relax or savor each location. This tour is best suited for energetic travelers craving an authentic overview rather than a slow-paced, leisure-focused trip.

Overall, if you’re someone eager to see Morocco’s must-see sights while enjoying knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations, this tour is a solid option. It provides excellent value for those interested in culture and stunning landscapes wrapped into one package.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major cities, desert, and scenic highlights.
• Expert Guides: Led by professional, knowledgeable Moroccan guides enriching your experience.
• Balanced Schedule: Mix of guided tours and free time for personal exploration.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Stays in 4-star hotels and a desert camp.
• Included Experiences: Camel trekking into the Sahara, breakfast daily, most dinners, and entry to key sites.
• Potential for Busy Days: Some reviews mention a packed schedule with limited downtime.

Exploring Morocco in Depth: What to Expect

The Starting Point: Marrakech

The tour kicks off in the vibrant city of Marrakech, a whirlwind of colors, sounds, and aromas. The first evening allows you to wander Djemaa el Fna, the lively square filled with storytellers, snake charmers, food stalls, and musicians. It’s an ideal way to soak up the city’s energetic vibe.

The next day features a visit to the Jardin Majorelle, a botanical oasis designed in the 1920s by French painter Jacques Majorelle. The gardens are a peaceful retreat, with vibrant blue accents and lush foliage. A highlight here is the Berber Museum, showcasing over 600 artifacts from Morocco’s indigenous tribes, and offering insight into local culture.

Following the gardens, a guided tour of Marrakech takes you through the maze of medina streets, complete with bustling souks and historical sites. Travelers have appreciated the guides’ in-depth knowledge, with one reviewer praising Omar as “simply fantastic,” highlighting the importance of a good guide in navigating the medina’s labyrinthine alleys.

Crossing the High Atlas: From Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou

Next, the journey heads into the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the famous Tizi n Tichka pass. The drive offers breathtaking views of valleys and mountain peaks. After a lunch break en route, you’ll visit Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and film set for movies like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia. This well-preserved fortified city is a photographer’s dream, with its earthen walls and dramatic setting atop a hill.

Traveling south to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of North Africa,” sets the scene for the next leg of the trip. The movie industry’s influence is palpable, and many visitors find this a fascinating stop, especially if they’re film buffs.

Into the Sahara: Merzouga and Camel Trekking

One of the trip’s highlights is the transition into the Sahara Desert, beginning with a drive through scenic gorges and palm groves. The Todra Gorge impresses with towering limestone cliffs, often called Morocco’s version of the Grand Canyon. Here, travelers can wander amid the natural beauty and snap some memorable photos.

Reaching Merzouga, your base for desert adventures, you’ll have the chance to relax before the iconic camel trek. The guide usually arranges the ride at sunset or sunrise, making for breathtaking views over the dunes. One traveler described it as “an incredible experience,” emphasizing the magic of crossing the sands on a camel’s back. The night in a desert camp, enjoying traditional Berber meals and starry skies, completes this authentic Sahara experience.

From Desert to Imperial Cities: Fes, Meknes, and Rabat

The journey from Merzouga to Fes is long but filled with sights. Early morning camel rides often lead to stunning sunrises, as one reviewer noted. The drive includes scenic cedar forests, home to Barbary Macaque monkeys, and the town of Ifrane, often called “Morocco’s Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture.

In Fes, you’ll explore the world’s largest medieval medina. The guided tour covers Fes el Bali, the ancient dye pits, and the famous tanneries, where the aroma alone is unforgettable. Travelers have appreciated their guides’ deep knowledge, making sense of the maze of streets and intricate crafts.

Later, the tour takes in Volubilis, the Roman ruins dating back to AD40, and Meknes, known for its imperial grandeur. These stops are perfect for history buffs or anyone interested in Morocco’s diverse past.

The Final Leg: Rabat, Casablanca, and Return to Marrakech

Rabat, Morocco’s capital, offers a mix of ancient ruins like Chellah, royal palaces, and modern government buildings. The guided city tour provides a solid overview before heading to Casablanca. Here, the Hassan II Mosque steals the show with its towering minaret and stunning oceanfront setting—an architectural marvel.

The tour wraps up with a drive back to Marrakech, where your journey concludes with a final night in the city’s lively streets.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides—one reviewer called Omar “fantastic,” praising his insights into Moroccan culture. Another mentioned Soufian’s excellent communication and personalized service, which made their trip especially memorable.

Many appreciated the scenic views—from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara dunes—and the chance to witness Morocco’s varied landscapes firsthand. Travelers also noted the quality of accommodations, with stays in comfortable, locally owned 4-star hotels and the desert camp providing a cozy, authentic atmosphere.

The long drives—sometimes over 12 hours—are a common point of feedback. While the scenery is rewarding, some found the packed schedule a bit tiring and wished for more free time to relax or explore independently.

Unique Experiences You’ll Remember

• Watching the sunset over the Sahara dunes after a camel ride.
• Exploring the ancient alleys and vibrant markets of Fes.
• Standing amid filming locations in Ait Benhaddou, feeling like a movie star.
• Tasting traditional Moroccan dishes, often included in dinners at the hotels or desert camp.

Practical Details & Value

At around $2,180 per person, this tour offers a great value considering the inclusions: all transportation, guiding, entrance fees, most meals, and a mix of comfortable lodging. The price reflects a comprehensive experience with expert guides, authentic accommodations, and memorable activities like camel trekking in the Sahara.

Transport is via air-conditioned vehicles with onboard WiFi, making long drives more comfortable. The group size is likely small to medium, ensuring a more personalized experience—though it remains a group tour, which appeals to those who enjoy shared experiences.

Considerations

The days are full, with some travelers mentioning that the itinerary feels quite busy. If you prefer a slow, leisure-focused trip, this might not be the best fit. Also, expect long hours on the road, especially between cities, so packing some entertainment or patience is advisable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This is ideal for cultural explorers eager to see Morocco’s historical sites, scenic landscapes, and desert beauty within a structured timeframe. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided insights and are comfortable with some long travel days. It’s less suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed pace or those with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

This Morocco tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the country’s most iconic sights, bustling cities, and majestic Sahara sands. The combination of expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and authentic experiences makes it a valuable choice for travelers wanting a rundown.

While the packed schedule may not suit everyone, the memories created—such as camel rides at sunset, exploring ancient medinas, and marveling at film-famous kasbahs—are worth the effort. The tour’s focus on authenticity, culture, and scenic beauty ensures you’ll come away with a true taste of Morocco.

If you’re ready for an adventure that combines history, landscapes, and local life, this tour packs a punch. Just keep your camera charged and your energy levels high!

FAQ

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes airport arrival and departure transfers on days 1 and 9, making your start and end seamless.

How many nights are spent in hotels?
You’ll stay in 4-star hotels and riads for 7 nights, with one night camping at a desert camp in the Sahara.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included daily, along with six dinners—many of which feature traditional Berber and Moroccan dishes, adding to the authentic feel.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private group tour, you might have some flexibility, but most of the itinerary is fixed. It’s designed for a comprehensive experience.

What are the main transportation modes?
All travel between sites is by air-conditioned private vehicles, ensuring comfort during long drives.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the long days and physical activity like camel riding may be less suitable for very young children or those with mobility concerns.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with a full refund available if canceled in time.

Embark on this adventure if you’re looking to see Morocco’s diverse landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant culture, all wrapped into a manageable, well-organized package.