How many days in Morocco do you really need? For a first trip that includes the Sahara, plan at least 7 days; 10 days lets you add Fes and Chefchaouen without rushing, and 12–14 days covers the country from the north to the Atlantic coast. Distances are bigger than many travellers expect: Merzouga is about 560 km from Marrakech, so the desert alone needs three days. Here are realistic itineraries based on the routes our drivers do every week.
3 days in Morocco
With three days, choose one region. Either stay in Marrakech and add a day trip such as Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate, or go straight to the dunes with the 3 day desert tour from Marrakech to Merzouga (long driving days).
5 days in Morocco
Five days is enough for Marrakech plus a relaxed desert loop: the 5 day desert tour from Marrakech gives you two nights near the dunes and shorter driving days. Arriving in Fes instead? Try the 5 days tour from Fes to Marrakech.
7 days in Morocco
A week is the sweet spot for a first visit. Popular options:
- Desert and imperial cities: the 7 days desert tour from Casablanca covers Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fes, the Sahara and Marrakech.
- From the north: the 7 days tour from Tangier is ideal if you arrive from Spain.
- Without the desert: the 7 days Morocco tour from Marrakech follows the imperial cities.
10 days in Morocco
Ten days lets you slow down: a free day in Chefchaouen, a guided visit of Fes and Marrakech and two nights in the Sahara. See the 10 day Morocco itinerary from Casablanca, the 10 days tour from Tangier or the 10 days desert tour from Marrakech.
12 to 14 days in Morocco
With two weeks you can add the Atlantic coast: the 12 days Morocco tour from Casablanca ends with two relaxed days in Essaouira, and the 12 days tour from Tangier loops back to the ferry.
Driving times to plan around
| Route | Approximate driving time |
|---|---|
| Marrakech – Ouarzazate (Tizi n’Tichka) | about 4 hours |
| Marrakech – Merzouga | 9–10 hours |
| Fes – Merzouga | 7–8 hours |
| Fes – Chefchaouen | about 4 hours |
| Marrakech – Essaouira | 2.5–3 hours |
Not sure which length suits you? Our tailor-made Morocco tours start from your dates, or browse all Morocco tours.
Frequently asked questions
Is one week enough for Morocco?
Yes for a first taste with the desert and two imperial cities. You will see the highlights but some days involve long drives.
Can I see the Sahara in 2 days?
Yes from Marrakech to Zagora with the 2 day desert tour, or from Fes to Merzouga with the 2 days tour from Fes.
Planning your Morocco trip?
Tell us your dates and we will suggest a private route with your own driver, riads and a night in the desert.
