Travelers to Morocco typically plan a trip for 8 to 10 days when combining Fes, Chefchaouen, and Rabat with Marrakech, and the Moroccan Desert. If you’re only headed to Northern Morocco, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 5 to 6 days. Check out our favorite Fes, Chefchaouen, and Rabat trips below.
## Exploring the Charms of Fes, Chefchaouen, and Rabat: A Journey Through Northern Morocco
Planning a trip to Morocco and wondering how to best experience the cultural richness of Fes, the blue-washed beauty of Chefchaouen, and the modern elegance of Rabat? This guide provides insights into crafting the perfect itinerary, whether you have a few days or are planning an extended adventure.
**How many days do you need to truly immerse yourself in the magic of Morocco?**
Typically, travelers allocate between five and six days to explore Fes, Chefchaouen, and Rabat. This timeframe allows for a comfortable pace, enabling you to delve into the unique character of each city without feeling rushed. However, for those seeking a more comprehensive experience, a journey of seven days or more opens doors to additional captivating destinations.
Many travelers opt to extend their exploration to include the vibrant city of Marrakech, the coastal allure of Tangier, or the bustling metropolis of Casablanca, each offering a distinct facet of Moroccan culture and history. These extensions provide a richer, more diverse taste of what Morocco has to offer.
## Discovering the Ideal Itinerary for Fes, Chefchaouen, and Rabat
Below, you’ll find some recommended itineraries designed to help you make the most of your time in this captivating region of Morocco.
### A 5-Day Exploration of Northern Morocco
This itinerary is perfect for those with limited time, offering a delightful introduction to the historic and modern cities of northern Morocco. You’ll begin and end your journey in the contemporary city of Casablanca, before venturing to Rabat and the captivating “blue city” of Chefchaouen, nestled in the picturesque Rif Mountains. Your adventure continues south, taking you to the imperial city of Meknes, the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, and finally, the cultural heart of medieval Fes.
**Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Journey to Rabat**
Upon arrival in Casablanca, you’ll begin your Moroccan adventure with a transfer to the capital city, Rabat. Settle into your accommodation and spend the afternoon exploring the city’s highlights, perhaps visiting the Kasbah of the Udayas or the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. You’ll spend the night in Rabat, allowing you to soak in the city’s atmosphere.
**Day 2: Rabat to Chefchaouen: Embracing the Blue City**
Today, you’ll embark on a scenic journey to Chefchaouen, the renowned “Blue City.” Prepare to be mesmerized by the city’s unique charm as you wander through its narrow, winding streets, adorned with buildings painted in various shades of blue. Spend the evening exploring the local shops and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of Chefchaouen. Your overnight stay will be in the heart of the Blue City.
**Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fes: A Detour to Volubilis and Meknes**
Leaving Chefchaouen, your journey continues towards Fes. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a detour to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history. You’ll also visit Meknes, another of Morocco’s imperial cities, before arriving in Fes in the late afternoon. Prepare to be captivated by the grandeur and historical significance of Fes, where you’ll spend the night.
**Day 4: Fes: Unveiling the Imperial City and Medieval Medina**
Today is dedicated to exploring the wonders of Fes. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Fes el Bali, the city’s UNESCO-listed medieval medina, a labyrinthine network of narrow streets filled with bustling souks, traditional workshops, and historical monuments. You’ll spend the night in Fes, allowing you to fully appreciate the city’s unique character.
**Day 5: Fes to Casablanca: Departure**
After a final morning in Fes, you will transfer back to Casablanca for your departure, taking with you memories of the vibrant colors, rich history, and captivating culture of northern Morocco.
### A 6-Day Immersion in Northern Morocco
This 6-day itinerary expands upon the 5-day journey, providing more time to fully appreciate the wonders of Fes and offering a slightly more relaxed pace.
**Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Journey to Rabat**
Begin your adventure with a transfer from Casablanca to Rabat. Settle into your accommodation and begin exploring the city’s historic and cultural landmarks. Enjoy the evening in Rabat.
**Day 2: Rabat to Chefchaouen: Discovering the Blue City**
Travel to the captivating blue city of Chefchaouen. Spend the day exploring its unique streets and enjoying its tranquil atmosphere. Enjoy the evening and overnight stay in Chefchaouen.
**Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fes: Exploring Volubilis and Meknes**
Journey onwards to Fes, with a detour to explore the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes. Arrive in Fes and settle into your accommodation for the night.
**Days 4-5: Fes: Delving into the Imperial City and Medieval Medina**
Two full days are dedicated to exploring the wonders of Fes. Spend your time immersing yourself in the vibrant Fes el Bali, exploring the souks, and discovering the historical monuments. These two days allow for a more in-depth exploration of Fes and its surrounding areas.
**Day 6: Fes to Casablanca: Farewell to Morocco**
After a final morning in Fes, transfer back to Casablanca for your departure, carrying memories of your Moroccan adventure.
## Beyond the North: Extended Moroccan Adventures
For those with more time, extending your itinerary to include destinations beyond Fes, Chefchaouen, and Rabat offers an even richer and more diverse experience.
### An 8-Day Journey: From Casablanca to Marrakech via the Desert
This eight-day loop, starting in Casablanca and ending in Marrakech, combines the imperial cities with unforgettable desert adventures. You’ll experience Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, and Fes before venturing into the Sahara Desert for a camel ride and a night under the stars. You’ll also explore ancient caravan routes, lush oases, and fortified kasbahs before crossing the High Atlas Mountains into the vibrant city of Marrakech.
**Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Journey to Rabat**
**Day 2: Rabat to Chefchaouen: Embracing the Blue City**
**Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fes: A Detour to Volubilis and Meknes**
**Day 4: Fes: Unveiling the Imperial City and Medieval Medina**
**Day 5: Drive to Erfoud – Sunset Camel Ride**
Today, you’ll embark on a long but rewarding journey to Erfoud, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. In the afternoon, experience a magical sunset camel ride into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Spend the night in a traditional desert camp under the stars near Merzouga.
**Day 6: Erg Shibi & Dades Valley – Drive to Ouarzazate**
After sunrise over the dunes, return to Erfoud and begin your journey towards Ouarzazate, passing through the dramatic Dades Valley. Spend the night in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco.”
**Day 7: Aït Benhaddou – Drive to Marrakech**
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Benhaddou, a stunning fortified village that has been featured in numerous films. In the afternoon, cross the High Atlas Mountains to arrive in Marrakech.
**Day 8: Explore Marrakech – Departure**
Explore the bustling souks, historical sites, and vibrant Jemaa el-Fna square in Marrakech before departing from Morocco.
### An 11-Day Grand Tour: Imperial Cities and Desert Landscapes
This 11-day circuit, starting in Casablanca, offers a comprehensive exploration of Morocco’s imperial cities and desert landscapes. You’ll immerse yourself in the culture and history of Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakech, ride a camel in the Sahara, explore mud-brick cities, and cross the High Atlas Mountains. This extended itinerary allows for a deeper dive into the diverse regions and experiences that Morocco has to offer.
**Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca – Journey to Rabat**
**Day 2: Rabat to Chefchaouen: Discovering the Blue City**
**Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fes: Exploring Volubilis and Meknes**
**Days 4-5: Fes: Delving into the Imperial City and Medieval Medina**
**Day 6: Drive to Erfoud – Sunset Camel Ride**
**Day 7: Desert Adventures Around Merzouga, Rissani Market & Todra Gorge**
Explore the desert region around Merzouga, visit the Rissani Market, and marvel at the towering cliffs of the Todra Gorge. Spend the night in Todra Gorge.
**Day 8: Todra Gorge to Aït Benhaddou, via Dades Valley & Ouarzazate**
Journey from Todra Gorge to Aït Benhaddou, passing through the stunning Dades Valley and Ouarzazate. Stay overnight in Aït Benhaddou.
**Day 9: Aït Benhaddou to Marrakech – Tizi n’Tichka Pass Over the High Atlas**
Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass to reach Marrakech.
**Day 10: Arrive in Marrakesh – Explore the Red City**
Explore the vibrant city of Marrakech, including its souks, gardens, and historical landmarks.
**Day 11: Marrakech to Casablanca & Departure**
Transfer from Marrakech to Casablanca for your departure, concluding your grand Moroccan adventure.
## Navigating Between Fes, Chefchaouen, and Rabat
**Traveling to Chefchaouen:**
The enchanting city of Chefchaouen, with its blue-painted buildings, is a must-see destination in the Rif Mountains. While often combined with a visit to Tangier, Chefchaouen is easily accessible from other Moroccan cities, including Fes and Rabat.
**Getting from Rabat to Fes:**
The journey from Rabat to Fes, covering approximately 129 miles (207 km), can be accomplished in two to three hours, depending on your chosen mode of transportation. The most convenient option is a private transfer, which typically takes a little over two hours.
B-1613