Morocco in 8 days: Marrakech, the Sahara & Fes
Souks and riads in Marrakech, a road trip over the High Atlas, a night under the stars in the Sahara and the ancient medina of Fes. Most travelers do the desert stretch with a driver or a small-group tour.
When to go
March to May and September to November are the best months. The desert is very hot in summer and cold at night in winter.
Flights: into Marrakech
Recent round-trip fares Aviasales travellers found to Marrakech; tap a route for today's price.
Day-by-day plan
Marrakech 3 nights
Arrive at your riad and spend the evening in the Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
The souks, Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs.
Jardin Majorelle and the YSL Museum, then a hammam.
🚆 Road Marrakech → Merzouga: two days over the Atlas, via Aït Benhaddou and the Dades or Todra gorges.
Atlas & Sahara 2 nights
Cross the Tizi n'Tichka pass to Aït Benhaddou; overnight in the gorges.
Drive to Merzouga and ride a camel into the Erg Chebbi dunes for a night in a desert camp.
🚆 Road Merzouga → Fes: a long day, about 7 to 8 hours with stops.
Fes 2 nights
Sunrise on the dunes, then the drive north through the Middle Atlas cedar forests.
The Fes el-Bali medina with a local guide: the tanneries, madrasas and souks.
✈️ Day 8: fly home from Fes, or take the train to Casablanca for more flight options.
Tips for this trip
- A licensed guide makes the Fes medina far easier to navigate.
- Dress modestly, especially outside Marrakech; a light scarf is useful.
- Agree on taxi prices before you get in, and expect to bargain in the souks.
Prefer a guided tour?
The same route with hotels, transport and a guide arranged for you. Live prices and reviews; you book and pay on TourRadar.
More Morocco trips ›FAQ
Is 8 days enough for Morocco?
For Marrakech, the Sahara and Fes, yes. Add Chefchaouen or the coast with a few more days.
Should I drive myself to the Sahara?
You can, but most travelers use a private driver or a small-group tour for the long mountain roads.
Can I fly home from Fes?
Fes has a small international airport; Casablanca, about 3 hours away by train, has more long-haul flights.