Morocco in Two Weeks: A Mosaic of Culture, Color, and Contrasts
Morocco in Two Weeks: A Comprehensive Itinerary
Morocco, a land of rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. With two weeks at your disposal, you can explore its diverse regions, from the bustling medinas and historical sites to the serene deserts and picturesque mountains. This comprehensive two-week itinerary will guide you through the best that Morocco has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca
Morning: Arrive in Casablanca
Begin your Moroccan adventure in Casablanca, the country's largest city and economic hub. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and freshen up.
Afternoon: Explore Casablanca
Hassan II Mosque
Start your exploration with a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world. It boasts stunning architecture, intricate mosaics, and a breathtaking location on the Atlantic Ocean.
Corniche
Stroll along the Corniche, a scenic coastal promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean views.
Evening: Dinner and Relaxation
Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Moroccan cuisine such as tagine or couscous. Afterward, return to your hotel to rest for the next day's journey.
Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat
Morning: Depart for Rabat
Take a short train ride from Casablanca to Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. The journey takes about an hour.
Afternoon: Explore Rabat
Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V
Visit the Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret of a grand mosque, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a beautiful royal tomb.
Kasbah of the Udayas
Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas, a picturesque fortress with narrow alleys, blue-and-white houses, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Evening: Dinner in Rabat
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Rabat, sampling more of Morocco's rich culinary offerings.
Day 3: Rabat to Chefchaouen
Morning: Depart for Chefchaouen
Travel to Chefchaouen, the famous "Blue City" nestled in the Rif Mountains. The drive takes about 4-5 hours, so leave early to make the most of your day.
Afternoon: Explore Chefchaouen
Blue Streets
Wander through the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen, taking in the serene and picturesque atmosphere. The town's blue-washed buildings create a unique and calming ambiance.
Plaza Uta el-Hammam
Visit Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the main square, where you can relax at a cafe and enjoy the view of the surrounding mountains.
Evening: Dinner and Relaxation
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying traditional dishes like kefta (spiced meatballs) or a vegetarian tagine. Spend the evening exploring more of Chefchaouen's charming streets.
Day 4: Chefchaouen
Morning: Hike to Akchour Waterfalls
Take a morning hike to the Akchour Waterfalls, located about 45 minutes from Chefchaouen. The hike offers beautiful scenery, and the waterfalls are a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.
Afternoon: Visit a Local Artisan Workshop
Return to Chefchaouen and visit a local artisan workshop. Learn about traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery, and leatherwork, and perhaps purchase a unique souvenir.
Evening: Dinner in Chefchaouen
Enjoy a leisurely dinner in one of Chefchaouen's many charming restaurants, soaking in the tranquil evening atmosphere.
Day 5: Chefchaouen to Fes
Morning: Depart for Fes
Travel to Fes, one of Morocco's oldest and most culturally rich cities. The drive takes about 4-5 hours.
Afternoon: Explore Fes
Bou Inania Madrasa
Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture with intricate tile work and a serene courtyard.
Fes el Bali
Explore Fes el Bali, the oldest part of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the narrow alleys and discover hidden gems around every corner.
Evening: Dinner in Fes
Enjoy dinner at a traditional riad, experiencing the hospitality and cuisine of Fes.
Day 6: Fes
Morning: Guided Tour of Fes
Join a guided tour to explore the highlights of Fes, including the Al-Qarawiyyin University, the oldest continuously operating university in the world.
Chouara Tannery
Visit the Chouara Tannery, where you can see the traditional leather dyeing process. The view from the nearby terraces is both fascinating and colorful.
Afternoon: Explore More of Fes
Royal Palace
Visit the Royal Palace, with its stunning golden doors and impressive architecture.
Jewish Quarter (Mellah)
Explore the Jewish Quarter, with its unique architecture and historical significance.
Evening: Dinner and Relaxation
Relax with dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying more of Fes's culinary delights.
Day 7: Fes to Merzouga
Morning: Depart for Merzouga
Begin the journey to Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. The drive takes about 7-8 hours, so leave early and enjoy the changing landscapes along the way.
Afternoon: Arrive in Merzouga
Arrive in Merzouga and check into your desert camp. After settling in, take a short rest before your evening adventure.
Evening: Camel Trek and Desert Camp
Join a camel trek into the dunes of the Sahara Desert. Watch the sunset over the dunes, and then enjoy a traditional Berber dinner at your desert camp. Spend the night under the stars or in a comfortable tent.
Day 8: Merzouga
Morning: Sunrise and Desert Activities
Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the Sahara, a truly magical experience. After breakfast, participate in desert activities such as sandboarding or a 4x4 tour of the dunes.
Afternoon: Visit a Nomad Village
Visit a nearby nomad village to learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Berber people. Enjoy tea and conversation with the locals.
Evening: Relax at the Desert Camp
Return to your desert camp for dinner and another night under the stars.
Day 9: Merzouga to Dades Valley
Morning: Depart for Dades Valley
Leave Merzouga and travel to the Dades Valley, known for its stunning rock formations and beautiful landscapes. The drive takes about 5-6 hours.
Afternoon: Explore the Dades Valley
Dades Gorges
Visit the Dades Gorges, a series of rugged canyons carved by the Dades River. The dramatic scenery and winding roads make it a popular spot for photography and exploration.
Evening: Dinner and Relaxation
Enjoy dinner at your hotel or a local guesthouse, taking in the peaceful ambiance of the valley.
Day 10: Dades Valley to Marrakech
Morning: Depart for Marrakech
Travel to Marrakech, the vibrant heart of Morocco. The drive takes about 5-6 hours, so leave early to make the most of your time in the city.
Afternoon: Explore Marrakech
Jemaa el-Fnaa
Start your exploration with a visit to Jemaa el-Fnaa, the bustling central square of Marrakech. In the afternoon, you'll find food stalls, street performers, and a lively atmosphere.
Koutoubia Mosque
Admire the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech. While non-Muslims cannot enter, the exterior and surrounding gardens are worth a visit.
Evening: Dinner in Marrakech
Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the medina. Marrakech offers a wide range of dining options, from street food to high-end cuisine.
Day 11: Marrakech
Morning: Historical Sites
Bahia Palace
Visit the Bahia Palace, a 19th-century palace with beautiful gardens, intricate tile work, and stunning architecture.
Saadian Tombs
Explore the Saadian Tombs, a historical site dating back to the Saadian dynasty. The tombs are known for their ornate decoration and historical significance.
Afternoon: Gardens and Museums
Jardin Majorelle
Head to Jardin Majorelle, a beautiful garden designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The garden's vibrant blue buildings and diverse plant life make it a peaceful retreat.
Musée Yves Saint Laurent
Next to the garden is the Musée Yves Saint Laurent, which showcases the designer's work and his connection to Morocco.
Evening: Dinner and Relaxation
Enjoy dinner at a traditional riad, savoring Moroccan cuisine such as lamb with prunes or chicken with preserved lemons and olives.
Day 12: Day Trip to Essaouira
Morning: Depart for Essaouira
Take a day trip to Essaouira, a charming coastal town about 2.5 hours from Marrakech.
Late Morning: Explore Essaouira
Medina
Explore the medina of Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow streets, artisan shops, and historical buildings.
Skala de la Ville
Visit Skala de la Ville, a fortress with impressive ramparts and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Afternoon: Beach and Seafood Lunch
Beach
Relax on Essaouira's beautiful beach, known for its strong winds and popular with windsurfers and kite surfers.
Seafood Lunch
Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a local restaurant, sampling the day's catch and local specialties.
Evening: Return to Marrakech
Return to Marrakech in the evening and relax at your hotel or riad.
Day 13: Marrakech to Ourika Valley
Morning: Depart for Ourika Valley
Take a day trip to the Ourika Valley, located about an hour from Marrakech. The valley is known for its beautiful scenery, including waterfalls, rivers, and traditional Berber villages.
Late Morning: Explore Setti Fatma
Visit Setti Fatma, a village in the Ourika Valley famous for its seven waterfalls. If you're up for it, take a hike to the waterfalls for a refreshing break and some great photo opportunities.
Afternoon: Lunch and Relaxation
Enjoy a traditional Berber lunch at a local guesthouse or restaurant in the valley. Spend the afternoon exploring more of the valley or relaxing by the river.
Evening: Return to Marrakech
Return to Marrakech in the evening. After a day of exploring the mountains, relax at your hotel or riad.
Day 14: Last Day in Marrakech
Morning: Shopping and Souvenirs
Spend your final day in Marrakech exploring the souks and shopping for souvenirs. The souks are a maze of narrow alleys filled with shops selling everything from spices and textiles to pottery and jewelry.
Afternoon: Cultural Experiences
Henna Cafe
Visit the Henna Cafe, where you can get a traditional henna tattoo and enjoy a cup of Moroccan tea. The cafe supports local women and offers a range of cultural activities and workshops.
Hammam Experience
For a relaxing end to your trip, visit a local hammam (traditional Moroccan bathhouse). Enjoy a scrub, massage, and soak in the steam rooms.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, savoring the flavors of Morocco one last time. Reflect on your two-week adventure and the memories you've made.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
Language
While Arabic and Berber are the official languages, French is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases in Arabic or French can enhance your experience.
Currency
The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the local currency. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, as not all vendors accept credit cards. ATMs are widely available in cities.
Dress Code
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts in more conservative settings.
Safety
Morocco is generally safe for tourists, but it's essential to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas and markets. Keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious when accepting offers from strangers.
Health
Drink bottled or filtered water, as tap water is not recommended for drinking. Enjoy street food from busy stalls to ensure freshness, and carry hand sanitizer for hygiene.
Bargaining
Bargaining is expected in Moroccan markets. Start by offering half the asking price and negotiate from there. Keep the process friendly and respectful.
Conclusion
A two-week trip to Morocco offers a comprehensive exploration of the country's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. By following this itinerary, you'll experience the highlights of Morocco's cities, mountains, deserts, and coastlines. Morocco's enchanting atmosphere and diverse experiences will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Safe travels and enjoy your Moroccan adventure!
