Morocco has been on my bucket list ever since I watched Leonardo Dalessandri’s Watchtower of Morocco on YouTube. The video sparked a sense of curiosity in me that when I saw a seat sale from Oman Air, I immediately booked round-trip tickets! Fortunately, my friends were just as adventurous as I was and didn’t hesitate to join me on this trip. If you’re also dreaming of exploring this beautiful country, check out my Morocco itinerary for first time visitors!
PS. This Morocco itinerary is quite long so please have patience as it loads. I hope you’ll agree it’s worth it. If you don’t have time to go through it all, consider pinning this post on Pinterest for later! 🙂
Table of Contents
Planning your Morocco Trip
Do I need a visa to enter Morocco?
Morocco is a visa-free destination for citizens of many countries, allowing stays of up to 90 days for tourism purposes. This includes travelers from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and most European Union nations. However, if you’re planning your Morocco itinerary and your nationality isn’t on the visa-exempt list, you may need to apply for a visa before your trip. Be sure to check the specific visa requirements for your country to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Philippine passport holders can stay in Morocco for a total of 90 days, visa-free. You just have to present a current Philippine passport, valid for at least 6 months beyond the expected date of departure from Morocco. That’s it!
How to get to Morocco
From the US
There are several major airlines offering direct and connecting flights to Morocco. Royal Air Maroc, the national carrier, provides direct flights from cities like New York (JFK) and Washington D.C. (IAD) to Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport (CMN). The direct flight from New York typically takes around 7-8 hours.
For those not near a city with direct flights, you can opt for a connecting flight through major European hubs such as Paris, London, or Madrid. Airlines like Air France, British Airways, and Iberia offer flights from various U.S. cities with one-stop connections to Moroccan cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, and Fes.
From Europe
Many budget airlines, including Ryanair and EasyJet, offer direct flights from cities across Europe to various destinations in Morocco. Popular routes include flights from London, Paris, Madrid, and Barcelona to Moroccan cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, Fes, and Agadir.
From The Philippines
While there are no direct flights, travelers planning their Morocco itinerary can easily reach the country through major hubs like Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, Doha in Qatar, and Istanbul in Turkey. Airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Saudia provide convenient connections to Morocco. The journey typically takes between 19 to 25 hours, with round-trip tickets costing approximately 500-800 USD (25,000-45,000 pesos).
Where to Stay in Morocco?
In Morocco, accommodation options extend well beyond the standard hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. You’ll find a variety of unique stays, including dars, riads, kasbahs, Berber tents, and eco-lodges. These are quintessential Moroccan experiences that you won’t find anywhere else, so I highly recommend staying in these types of accommodation.
Note: If you will follow this Morocco itinerary, you’ll need to book accommodations in Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakech. The accommodations in the Sahara Desert and Atlas Mountains were included in the package we booked, so you can look for similar options that offer an all-inclusive experience in those areas.
Odyssee Center Hotel Casablanca
Odyssee Center Hotel is the perfect place to recharge, especially after flying halfway across the world and battling jetlag. Just a 5-minute walk from Casa Port Station and about 45 minutes by train from Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), it offers easy access to the Old Medina, Hassan II Mosque, and the Corniche.
Dar Hlimi Fes
Even though it’s nestled in the heart of Fes Medina, the street where it’s located is surprisingly quiet. This is a budget accommodation, but it didn’t feel budget at all. The complimentary breakfast was delicious and consistently served on time. The rooftop terrace was a highlight, offering stunning views of the mountains and the walled city.
Riad Melhoun & Spa
Riad Melhoun & Spa was the riad of my dreams. Located in the historical Medina, the riad is just 10 minutes from Jemaa El Fnaa square and 5 minute walk from Bahia Palace. The riad is stunning with meticulous details, and breakfast on the rooftop terrace was absolutely delicious. Our suite on the ground floor next to the indoor pool was outstanding and so Instagrammable.
Boho 27 Hostel Marrakech
Another place we stayed in Marrakech was Boho 27 Hostel Marrakech. Located in the heart of the city, it has a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for meeting fellow travelers. For around $10 per night, you get a comfortable dorm bed, free Moroccan tea, and friendly staff—two of whom I still keep in touch with today!
How to Book Private Tours from Casablanca, Marrakech & Fes
I’m usually the first to recommend DIY travel for its flexibility, but sometimes booking private tours is a great option. Aside from third-party providers like GetYourGuide and Viator, you can also book directly with local companies such as Sahara Holiday Tours (WhatsApp +212666955165). Local operators often offer more personalized experiences and flexible itineraries.
Travel Insurance for Morocco
While travel insurance isn’t mandatory for your Morocco itinerary, it’s highly recommended in case of unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost belongings. It’s especially helpful for food-related issues, like food poisoning, as it ensures you receive proper care without added stress. Before our 2-week adventure in Morocco, I purchased my travel insurance from AXA Insurance (not sponsored!). Thankfully, I didn’t need to use it, but knowing I was covered made the trip worry-free.
How to get around Morocco
By Trains
Morocco’s trains are both inexpensive and generally reliable, making them a popular choice for getting around. Operated by the national railway company ONCF, trains conveniently connect major cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, and Fes. For ease of planning, you can check prices and timetables on the ONCF website before your trip.
By Bus
Buses are another budget-friendly and reliable way to travel across Morocco. Numerous local bus companies operate throughout the country, especially on popular routes like Casablanca to Marrakech. However, comfort levels can vary widely.
For a more comfortable ride, I recommend opting for reputable companies like CTM and Nejme Chamal. Known for their reliable service and higher standards of comfort, these buses make long-distance travel much more enjoyable.
By Private Transfers
If you’re looking for a more personalized and hassle-free experience, private transfers are also available. They offer the convenience of door-to-door service and the flexibility to travel at your own pace. You can book private transfers through platforms like GetYourGuide.
What to Eat and Drink in Morocco
Moroccan cuisine is a vibrant mix of rich flavors and aromatic spices, many of which were completely new to me. Influenced by Berber, Jewish, Arab, and French cultures, the food in Morocco is as diverse as its history. When my friends and I visited, I was a total newbie! I didn’t even know what a tagine was! But after two weeks of traveling across the country, I got to try most of its iconic dishes. If you’re visiting Morocco for the first time, here are some must-try dishes to add to your Morocco itinerary!
- Tagine: A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, cooked in a conical clay pot.
- Couscous: Steamed semolina wheat topped with vegetables, meat, and a fragrant broth.
- Pastilla: A savory-sweet pie filled with pigeon or chicken, almonds, and spices.
- Harira: A traditional soup with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and lamb.
- Kefta: Spiced meatballs made from ground beef or lamb.
- Zaalouk: A salad made with cooked eggplant, tomatoes, and spices.
- Briouats: Flaky pastries filled with minced meat, cheese, or seafood.
- Mechoui: Whole roasted lamb seasoned with cumin and salt.
- Moroccan Mint Tea: Sweet green tea with fresh mint.
- Moroccan Sweets: Including Chebakia (enormously popular during the month of Ramadan), M’hancha, and Ghriba.
- Tangia: A Marrakech specialty, super-slow-cooked lamb or beef with garlic and preserved lemons.
- Harcha: A semolina griddle cake served with honey and butter.
How much does food in Morocco cost?
Just like the cost of transportation and accommodation, food is relatively cheap in Morocco. To give you an idea, the average price of a meal (breakfast, lunch, or dinner) is 50-150 dirhams (5-15 USD or 270-800 pesos). Check out the expense summary at the end of this Morocco itinerary, and you’ll see that I only spent 158 USD (9,008 pesos) for the entire trip! Of course, this amount can vary depending on your food preferences and appetite.
Explore Morocco: 1 or 2 Weeks
2-Week Morocco Itinerary: The Exact Route We Took
My Morocco itinerary follows a circular route, covering the most popular destinations in central and northern Morocco. We started and ended our journey in Casablanca, traveling through Fes, Chefchaouen, and the stunning Sahara Desert. From there, we ventured into the Atlas Mountains before arriving in Marrakech, with a day trip to the charming coastal town of Essaouira.
To use the interactive Google Maps version of this itinerary, click the arrow button below (next to the “2-Week Morocco Itinerary for First-Time Visitors” label).
Casablanca (Day 1)
After 30 hours of travel (2 plane rides, 1 long layover in Muscat, Oman and 1 train ride), we finally made it to Casablanca. My friends and I initially planned to explore the city as soon as we checked in to our hotel in Casablanca, but jet lag kicked in. Traveling from the Philippines to Africa messed up our biological clock so instead of seeing Casablanca’s best attractions, we ended up sleeping in our comfortable hotel beds.
My friends and I woke up at sunset, not realizing it was Ramadan in Morocco. We were worried that most restaurants would already be closed, but we decided to take a chance and try NKOA, a fusion restaurant in Casablanca. To our relief, they were open and welcomed us even without reservations. Since it was Ramadan, the restaurant offered a unique menu that combined Eurasian, Afro-Latin, and Moroccan flavors. The meal was a perfect introduction to Moroccan cuisine and a great way to start our trip.
Casablanca (Day 2)
On day 2 of our Morocco itinerary, my friends and I woke up early to explore Casablanca. While many travelers tend to skip this city, I highly recommend spending at least a day in Morocco’s bustling economic capital. To make the most of your visit, consider joining a guided walking tour in Casablanca. This 4-hour tour takes you through the city’s most famous attractions, offering a deeper insight into its rich history and vibrant culture.
Highlights:
- Hassan II Mosque
- Casablanca Medina
- Place Mohamed V
- Corniche
- Rick’s Cafe
Casablanca to Fes (Day 3)
On day 3, my friends and I headed to Casa Voyageurs train station for our trip to Fes. It was straightforward, and upon arriving at the Fes train station, we grabbed a taxi from the stand. The drive to the gates of the medina took about 10 minutes. Since the old Fes medina is car-free, we had to navigate its intricate labyrinth of alleyways on foot. It was our first taste of the medina’s complexity, and we quickly got lost trying to find our accommodation. By asking around, we found a local man who guided us right to the door of Dar Hlimi. To be honest, we were a bit nervous, knowing that scams can happen in Fes, but thankfully, everything turned out fine.
Travel Tip: When visiting Fes, it’s wise to arrange a transfer from the airport or train station directly with your accommodation, especially if it’s located in the old medina. The medina is a literal maze, and finding your way can be quite challenging, even for seasoned travelers.
Fes (Day 4)
I woke up early at our accommodation to catch the sunrise. Fes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, is perhaps the most authentic city we visited on this trip. While there were other tourists around, the vibrant local culture was unmistakable. Experiencing Ramadan here gave us a unique glimpse into Moroccan traditions and became one of the highlights of our adventure.
Highlights:
- The Royal Palace (Dar el Makhzen)
- The Blue Gate (Bab Bou Jeloud)
- Chouara Tannery
- Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts Crafts
- Al Quaraouiyine Mosque – the oldest university in the world est. 857 AD
- Merenid Tombs
Fes Medina Guided Tour
If you’re a first time visitor in Morocco, I highly recommend joining a guided tour in Fes. I guarantee that you will get lost if you do this on your own. With an expert guide, you can wander through the narrow streets and shop for local products, without the worry of getting lost or ripped off.
Chefchaouen Day Trip from Fes (Day 5)
On day 5 of our Morocco itinerary, my friends and I visited Chefchaouen, also known as the Blue City. You’ve probably seen it on social media – the city is famous for its beautiful blue-washed buildings. We initially planned to take a local bus, but unfortunately, all tickets were sold out days before our trip. We didn’t want to miss out on this beautiful destination, so we decided to avail a private transfer to Chefchaouen. Since there were five of us, the cost was not that expensive, and we split it equally. If you are solo traveling, you can join a group tour to Chefchaouen from Fes instead.
Fes (Day 6)
On day 6, about halfway through our trip, my friends and I availed a traditional hammam in Fes. A hammam is Morocco’s version of the Turkish bath. In Morocco, you can choose between private and public hammams. We opted for a private session, which included a traditional Moroccan beauty treatment and a body massage using specialized local oils. This was a much-needed break from our travels and a perfect preparation for our upcoming Sahara Desert adventure.
Fes to Merzouga (Day 7)
On day 7, our driver and tour guide picked us up from our accommodation in Fes. We chose a private Sahara Desert tour with Mouhou Tours because we wanted more control over our Morocco itinerary and the flexibility to stop at places not typically included in standard desert tour routes. The private tour cost 2,200 Moroccan Dirhams (200 euros or 12,000 pesos) per person. Was it worth it? Absolutely!
Read about our 3-day Fes to Marrakech Sahara Desert Tour here!
Highlights:
- Ifrane City – the Moroccan Switzerland
- Wild Monkeys in Cedar Forest
- Midelt Town
- Middle Atlas Mountains
- Ziz Valley
- Camel trekking in Merzouga
- Overnight in Sahara Desert
Merzouga to Dades Valley (Day 8)
On day 8, I woke up to witness one of the most stunning sunrises of my life, right in the heart of the Sahara Desert. Watching the golden hues spread across the endless dunes was truly one of life’s greatest moments. A surreal experience that reminded me I was standing in a place I had once only dreamed of visiting.
Later that day, our group explored some of Morocco’s top destinations before checking into the beautiful Riad Dades in the late afternoon. I was mesmerized by its breathtaking views of the Dades Valley. Words simply cannot do justice to the beauty of this place.
Highlights:
- Sunrise in Sahara Desert
- Camel trekking back to Merzouga
- Fossil Gallery in Rissani
- Todra Valley
- Todra Gorge
- Dades Valley
- Overnight in Dades Valley
Dades Valley to Marrakech (Day 9)
After breakfast, we drove along the Rose Valley to Ouarzazate (pronounced Wa-za-zat) past Skoura Oasis, which is famed for its date palm trees. Then we visited the Atlas Film Studios, which is considered to be the largest film studio in the world. The main star of this day was Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the Slave City of Yunkai in the Game of Thrones. Seriously. My heart could not contain the excitement when I saw its iconic gate where some of the scenes of Daenaerys Targeryen were shot.
Highlights:
- Sunrise in Dades Valley
- Rose Valley
- Atlas Film Studios at Ouarzazate
- The Game of Thrones filming location Ait Benhaddou
- Tizi n’Tichka Pass
- Marrakech
Our driver/tour guide Ali drove us to Marrakech before the day ended. My friends and I really had a great time with him and it felt like saying good bye to a friend. If you guys are planning to do a 3-day Sahara Desert Tour, you should definitely go with Mouhou Tours and specifically ask for Ali!
On our first night in Marrakech, after checking in at Riad Melhoun & Spa, we decided to check out Jemaa el-Fna Square. This historic square has been a significant cultural hub since the city’s establishment in the 11th century. This square showcases a concentration of cultural practices and Moroccan cuisine. It was a bit of a culture shock at first, but I soon got comfortable after exploring the whole square.
Marrakech (Day 10)
Marrakech is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Morocco, and it’s easy to see why. This vibrant city is brimming with fascinating sights and unique experiences, making it easy to get lost in its charm. To truly explore Marrakech, I recommend spending at least three days here to fully take in the attractions and immerse yourself in the local culture. Starting with a guided tour of Marrakech on your first day in the city, just like what we did. After that, you can spend the next couple of days exploring on your own, discovering the city’s hidden gems at your own pace.
Highlights:
- Jardin Majorelle and YSL Museum
- Koutoubia Mosque
- Bahia Palace
- Argan Oil Factory
- Saadian Tombs
- Jemaa el Fnaa
- Medina of Marrakech
- Ben Youssef Madrasa
Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech (Day 11)
My friends and I joined a day-trip tour to Essaouira from Marrakech with iGoMorocco on day 11. The travel company offers daily trips out of Marrakech to various destinations in Morocco. Although I initially planned an overnight trip to Essaouira, time constraints and heavy luggage made me decide against it. Nonetheless, Essaouira is a charming and laid-back city that quickly became one of my favorites on the trip. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize its ramparts, as it was where Daenerys Targaryen bought the unsullied.
Highlights:
- Essaouira ramparts
- Fishing Port and Fishing Market (order some sardines, take them to the barbecue station and this will be served to you with bread and salad!)
- Medina of Essaouira (lots of cats to pet here!)
- Essaouira Beach (my first time to ever set foot in a beach along the Atlantic Ocean)
- Le Souk
Marrakech (Day 12)
On Day 12 of our trip, we explored the Mellah of Marrakech, the city’s historic Jewish Quarter. Our first stop was the Lazama Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in Morocco. We then wandered through the Mellah Market, where we bought some leather goods. They were both affordable and stylish, making perfect gifts for friends and family back home. At the market’s entrance, we also visited the spice souk. The Mellah is conveniently located near El Badi Palace, so we took a short walk over. We ended the day back at Jemaa el-Fnaa, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and sampling new foods.
Marakkech (Day 13)
On day 13, we were up before sunrise, buzzing with excitement for our hot air balloon ride in Marrakech. The package included hotel transfers, welcome drinks, and fresh pastries to start the morning right. The hot air balloon ride itself, which lasted about an hour, offered breathtaking views of Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains. We wrapped up the experience with a traditional breakfast served in a cozy tent.
In the afternoon, we went shopping for some authentic Moroccan products and came across Sidi Yassine, which is known for its high-quality Argan Oil. We couldn’t resist buying some bottles of this precious oil, which is a staple in Moroccan beauty and skincare routines. It was, for me, the best thing anyone can buy in Morocco!
Casablanca to Muscat (Day 14)
On the final day of our Moroccan adventure, we had to catch an early morning flight to Muscat, Oman. We opted to spend our last night in Marrakech instead of traveling back to Casablanca. To make the most of our remaining time, we decided to let loose and have some fun at Boho 27 Hostel.
Since there were no public transportation options available in the early hours of the morning, we arranged for a private airport transfer from Marrakech to Casablanca Airport.
How much did I spend on this trip?
For my two-week trip to Morocco, I spent a total of 109,241.04 pesos (1,947.20 USD), covering airfare, food, accommodation, tours, local transportation, shopping, and more. If you’re planning to follow this Morocco itinerary, you can expect to spend a similar amount, or even less, depending on your choice of accommodation and the number of paid activities you include. Airfare can also be a major expense, but we were lucky to score an affordable flight from Manila to Casablanca via Oman Air.
| Expense | Amount |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 23,670.91 pesos |
| Airfare (incl. Philippine Travel Tax) | 25,500.00 pesos |
| Food | 9,008.18 pesos |
| Tours | 38,582.85 pesos |
| Transportation | 4,069.12 pesos |
| Shopping | 5,671.58 pesos |
| Holafly eSIM | 2,738.40 pesos |
| Total | 109,241.04 pesos |
| Total in USD | 1,947.20 USD |
1-Week Morocco Itinerary for First Time Visitors
If you don’t have two weeks to spare, this 1-week Morocco itinerary is designed to pack in as much as possible. While a week is short for fully experiencing Morocco, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time. But if you have some flexibility, I highly recommend adding an extra day to explore Chefchaouen (the Blue City) or Essaouira. Both are absolutely worth it!
Arrival in Casablanca (Day 1)
- Check in hotel
- Hassan II Mosque Guided Tour
- Explore the Corniche
- Shopping at Casablanca Medina
- Place Mohammed V
Casablanca to Fes (Day 2)
- Check out hotel
- Train from Casa Voyageurs to Fes
- Check in hotel
- Afternoon tour of Fes
3-day Sahara Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech (Day 3 to 5)
I really recommend taking this tour from Fes to Marrakech to maximize your time in Morocco. Lots of amazing places await you on this journey. Trust me.
Marrakech (Day 6)
- Jardin Majorelle
- Yves Saint Laurent Museum
- Koutoubia Mosque
- Ben Youssef Madrasa
- Jemaa el-Fnaa
Marrakech (Day 7)
- Bahia Palace
- El Badi
- Saadian Tombs
- Flight back to Casablanca or land travel the next morning
Morocco Travel Packing List
When preparing for your Morocco trip, it’s essential to pack thoughtfully. Ensure you bring items suited for varied climates, including warm clothing for cooler evenings and lightweight layers for hot days. Here are some of the stuff I brought during our trip:
- Pashmina Shawl for warmth during cooler evenings and for modesty when visiting religious sites
- International Power Adapter Plug (220V, 50Hz)
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses
- Insect Repellent
- Day Pack for carrying essentials during our overnight desert stay and day trips
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water Bottle
- Basic First Aid Kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and over-the-counter medication)
- Lightweight layers
- Travel-Sized Toiletries – not all accommodations provide toiletries, so having a travel-sized set of shampoo, conditioner, and soap is handy
- Toilet Paper or Tissues
- Powerbank
- Headlamp just in case of power outages in the desert
Staying connected in Morocco
Mobile phone coverage in Morocco is generally excellent in cities and metropolitan areas, though it can be spotty in remote desert or mountainous regions. During our 2-week trip, we only lost mobile data in Merzouga, while staying overnight in the Sahara Desert camp. Some parts of the Atlas Mountains also had weak coverage, but overall, our Holafly Morocco eSIM provided reliable connectivity throughout the trip.
Pin this for future reference!
So, there you have it! I spent a lot of time researching and planning for the perfect 2-week Morocco itinerary for first time visitors. I hope this post helps you save some time when creating your own trip. Do you have any questions? Suggestions? Let’s chat down below!
17 replies on “2-Week Morocco Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (2025)”
Could I get a downloadable or PDF version of your guide please? Thanks!
Thank you so much for this! Super helpful. It helped us decide on our itinerary. So glad to hear that you did not have a bad experience at all!
By the way, were you able to use Philippine-issued credit / debit cards in Morocco?
I’m glad you found this post helpful! Yes, I was able to use Philippine-issued credit cards in Morocco, and they are widely accepted, especially in tourist-friendly areas. However, cash remains the most common payment method in Morocco. I recommend carrying some cash for smaller transactions, and you can easily withdraw money using a debit card at ATMs throughout the country.
[…] case you missed it, I created a Morocco itinerary for first time visitors. Check it out if you’re planning a trip to […]
Thank you so much. I wish I had known about this useful and valuable information before my trip to Morocco last year. I’m sure that a lot of tourists heading to Morocco will follow your advice and the best trip possible. I can’t wait to return to Morocco next year.
How much is your roundtrip airfare?
Hello Remy! I got my round trip tickets for only 25,500 pesos.
hello i just want to ask what did the moroccan immigration requires you to show upon entering morocco?
and what if i will show just 2 weeks IT and roundtrip ticket but then i will stay there for 60days is there any problem when i depart? thank you
Hello Justine. The Immigration officer in Morocco just asked me to show my passport. I wasn’t required to show anything. As Filipinos, we can stay Visa-free for 90 days. I think there won’t be any issue as long as you can support yourself. When exiting the country, you can tell them that you have made some changes in your travel plans and decided to stay longer.
You have great photos! What camera do you use?
Thank you! I was using GoPro Hero 7 and iPhone 8 plus.
Perfect! Love it!
Hi planning a trip to morocco sometime july 2023 with my family… thinking of following ur IT, however having some reservations about scammers et al, encountered any during ur trip?tia
Hello Michael. My friends and I did not encounter any scammers in Morocco. Just do some research about the common scams in Morocco and how to avoid them. Don’t forget to have fun. 🙂
Hi!
Mouhou Tours is aaking for a downpayment and the rest will be payable in cash or credit card with 5% surcharge.
Is this safe?
Thank you for the reply.
Bernard
Hey Bernard. We made a down payment with Mouhou Tours prior to our trip in Morocco. They’re a reliable tour operator in Morocco so I would say it’s safe. 🙂
Best view I have ever seen!