On your second day, a guide leads you through the architectural wonders of the Ben Youssef Madrasa, where centuries-old woodwork, calligraphy, and zellij tiles tell stories of the past. You then visit the Dar Di Said Museum to admire traditional Moroccan crafts, before losing yourself in the twisting souks. In the dyers’ quarter, you observe how leather and cloth are colored by local artisans using time-honored techniques.

You leave Marrakech behind, climbing into the High Atlas Mountains via the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, you pass traditional Berber villages and stop at an argan oil cooperative to learn how local women produce this precious oil. After lunch in Taddert, the road takes you over mountain peaks into the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” rich with mud-brick fortresses. Your journey continues toward the town of Boumalne Dades, where you spend the night against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and river valleys.

Today you venture deeper into the desert, stopping at the Todra Gorge to marvel at its towering canyon walls and at Erfoud, a town known for its fossils. You then arrive in Rissani, where a lively livestock market and traditional donkey parking area await. From here, you mount camels and trek into the orange dunes of Erg Chebbi. At your Bedouin-style camp, you watch the sunset from the crest of a dune, then dine under the sky with live Berber music by the fire.

You awake early to catch the desert sunrise — a golden sea of sand awakening in the soft light. After breakfast, you have optional activities such as sandboarding or exploring the dunes. Later, your driver takes you through the Draa Valley and acacia forests to the legendary Aït Benhaddou Kasbah, a fortress that once sat on caravan trade routes. In the evening, you roam its quiet alleys and ascend to rooftop viewpoints for sweeping views of the ksour (fortified villages).

You leave Aït Benhaddou in the morning, winding back over the High Atlas Mountains and through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. As you descend, the landscape shifts dramatically — from desert and mountain to the lush outskirts of Marrakech. Back in the city, you visit the Almoravid Koubba, the Marrakech Museum, and other historic sites. You finish the day in Jemaa el-Fna, perhaps grabbing dinner at one of the rooftop restaurants as the square pulses with evening energy.

Departing Marrakech, you travel to the foothills of the High Atlas to the village of Amizmiz. Here begins your hike through rural Berber territory over mule tracks and quiet roads. You meet local farmers, shepherds, and villagers going about their daily routines. At midday, you have lunch with a Berber family and learn about their traditional lifestyle. You then continue your trek and spend the night in a Berber home, sharing food, stories, and the simple rhythms of mountain life.

After breakfast with your hosts, you hike again through the hills, passing more small villages and agricultural terraces. In the afternoon, you return to Marrakech, where you can enjoy a more laid-back, self-guided exploration of the city. You might visit the Saadian Tombs, El Badi Palace, the Bahia Palace, or simply meander through the medina to absorb the atmosphere.

You leave the mountains behind and head west toward the Atlantic Ocean, traveling through argan forests and plains. If time permits, you stop at an argan oil cooperative to see how this oil is made. When you arrive in Essaouira, the contrast is immediate: breezy ramparts, whitewashed walls, and the sound of waves. You wander the seaside medina, climb up the old fortifications (Skala de la Kasbah), and later enjoy a seafood dinner fresh from the Atlantic.

On your final day, you have the morning to soak up Essaouira. You might stroll along the beach, watch the windsurfers and kitesurfers, or take one more walk on the ramparts. Then you head back to Marrakech. Depending on your flight schedule, you can squeeze in some last-minute shopping or a visit to the Majorelle Gardens, a serene botanical oasis, before bidding farewell to Morocco.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Q1: Is 10 days enough time to experience both the desert and the coast of Morocco? Yes. This itinerary is designed to give you a full taste of Morocco’s diversity: from Marrakech’s medina to the High Atlas Mountains, the Sahara desert, and finally the laid-back Atlantic coast. You’ll have a mix of adventure, culture, and downtime. Q2: How do I travel between all these places — do I need to arrange my own transport? The itinerary assumes you will use a private driver or organized transport. This provides flexibility, especially for mountain and desert legs where public transport is less convenient. Q3: Is it safe to hike in the Atlas Mountains with local Berber families? Absolutely. The trekking routes are relatively gentle and suitable for most travelers, and staying with Berber families offers a safe, intimate, and authentic experience. It’s always good to go with a local guide. Q4: What kind of accommodation can I expect in the desert camp and Berber home? In the desert, you’ll stay in a Bedouin-style tent under the stars, with traditional dinner and music. In the Atlas foothills, accommodation is in a Berber home, offering a simple but comfortable experience and genuine hospitality. Q5: When is the best time of year to do this 10-day itinerary? Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal. The weather is milder in both the desert and mountains, making hiking and camel treks more comfortable. Q6: Do I need any special gear for the tour? You should bring good walking shoes or hiking boots, a daypack, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a lightweight jacket for the desert nights, and a refillable water bottle. If you go in cooler months, bring a warm layer too. Q7: Is Essaouira a surf spot or just a relaxed seaside town? Essaouira is a popular seaside town known for its historic ramparts, seafood, and artistic vibe. It's also a wind- and kitesurfing hub, so you’ll see surfers, but you don’t have to surf to enjoy the town—it’s perfect just for relaxing, exploring, and taking in the coastal charm.