Marrakesh in 9 Days for Couples - Aït Ben Haddou (UNESCO ksar)
In Collaboration with Morocco Travel Shara. Updated on February 14, 2026.
Morocco 9 Days Tour from Marrakech is the best tour to discover wonderful parts of Morocco. By joining Morocco 9 days tour from Marrakech you will discover kasbahs like Aït Ben Haddou, nature like the High Atlas and Dades gorges, the Sahara Desert of Merzouga, imperial cities such as Fes, Rabat and Casablanca, and the blue city Chefchaouen.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Morocco Travel Shara, inspired by the tour Morocco 9 Days Tour From Marrakech. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Aït Ben Haddou (UNESCO ksar)
- Tizi n'Tichka High Atlas pass
- Dades Valley & Gorges
- Todra (Tinghir) Gorges
- Erg Chebbi dunes - Merzouga (camel ride & bivouac night under stars )
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival to Marrakech. Private airport pick-up and transfer to your riad in the Medina. Settle in and enjoy an included breakfast.
Arrival to Marrakech
Meet-and-greet on arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport. Driver will meet you at the arrivals exit with a name sign.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: Ask driver for a quick photo stop near the palm groves when leaving the airport for a relaxed arrival shot.
- Have local currency (Moroccan dirham) ready for small purchases and tips; ATMs are available at the airport if you need cash.
- Keep your passport and flight details handy for check-in with the driver and hotel staff.
Transfer to Riad in Marrakech Medina
Private transfer from the airport to your riad in the Medina (driver will drop you close to riad entrance; some gates in the old medina are pedestrian-only).
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm with your riad in advance whether they can meet the driver at the nearest drivable gate — many medina riads have small alleys that require a short walk.
- Carry a small daypack with essentials for the first few hours (water, sunscreen, camera) as riad rooms may not be ready immediately on early arrivals.
- If you prefer a quieter riad room for privacy, request this in advance; many riads have rooftop terraces ideal for evening tea.
Breakfast and check-in at your Riad
Included breakfast at your riad; relax after travel and enjoy the calm of a traditional riad courtyard.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: Reserve a table on the riad’s rooftop (if available) for a private breakfast with views of the medina at golden hour.
- Let the riad know any food preferences or allergies before breakfast so they can accommodate.
- Take a short walk after breakfast to Jemaa el-Fna square to orient yourself — it’s lively in the late morning and close to many riads.
Overnight at riad (arrival night)
Overnight stay in a centrally located riad in the Marrakech medina (example riads listed on booking).
Tips from local experts:
- Request a room with a private terrace if you want a quiet romantic evening; many riads offer intimate rooftops.
- Keep valuables in the riad safe and use a lamp or light to navigate narrow medina alleys at night.
- Plan an early rest after arrival to recover from travel; riads are typically quiet after 22:00.
Day 2
Drive from Marrakech across the High Atlas via the Tizi n'Tichka pass to Aït Ben Haddou, then continue to Ouarzazate and the Dades Valley. Overnight in Dades gorges.
Depart Marrakech via Tizi n'Tichka pass
Departure from your riad in Marrakech. Drive across the High Atlas mountains via Tizi n'Tichka (2,260 m) with short scenic stops and a pause at Ait Barka village for photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: Sit on the right-hand side of the vehicle for best midday views descending into the valley after the pass.
- Wear layered clothing—mountain temperatures can be several degrees cooler than Marrakech, especially in the morning.
- Bring motion-sickness remedies if you are prone to car sickness; the road has many switchbacks.
Visit Aït Ben Haddou (guided)
Guided visit of the UNESCO-listed ksar of Aït Ben Haddou to learn about its history and architecture.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow 45–60 minutes for a guided walk up through the ksar; the route has uneven steps and narrow lanes.
- Special moment: Plan to be at the viewpoint above the ksar around late afternoon light for dramatic photos.
- Wear comfortable closed shoes — the cobbled paths and stairways are uneven.
Lunch break (free time)
Free time for lunch near Aït Ben Haddou (approximately one hour).
Tips from local experts:
- Try local tagine or a simple salad; if you have dietary needs, ask staff before ordering.
- Carry small change for market refreshments; some small cafes may be cash-only.
- Pace your meal — roads after lunch include further driving through palm groves and valleys.
Drive through Skoura and Rose Valley to Dades Valley
Continue the journey via the Rose Valley and Skoura palm grove, arriving into the Dades Valley and gorges. Check in to a typical Moroccan hotel in the heart of the gorges.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: Request a table facing the valley at hotel dinner time for a quiet, intimate meal with valley views.
- Carry a light jacket—gorges can cool quickly after sunset.
- If you enjoy local crafts, Skoura has artisan stalls; bring reusable bags and small cash for purchases.
Dinner at hotel (included)
Included dinner at your Dades gorge hotel featuring Moroccan cuisine.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the hotel of any allergies or dietary restrictions before dinner service.
- Enjoy a mint tea after dinner — a local custom and pleasant way to end the evening.
- Reserve a quiet corner if you prefer a private dining setting; hotels are used to accommodating couples.
Overnight in Dades gorges (Auberge Atlas or similar)
Overnight at a Moroccan-style auberge/hotel located in the heart of the Dades gorges.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a room with valley views when possible — sunset and early morning light are especially pretty.
- Carry earplugs if you are a light sleeper; mountain settlement sounds at night can be noticeable.
- Confirm wake-up or breakfast time with reception if you have early plans the next morning.
Day 3
From Dades Valley to Todra (Todra) Gorges, then on to the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga. Evening camel ride into a desert bivouac for sleep under the stars.
Depart Dades gorges (after breakfast)
Leave your hotel at around 08:00 after a typical Moroccan breakfast and drive along the road of 1000 Kasbahs toward Tinghir and Todra Gorges.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: Sit on the left side of the vehicle for morning light on the valley as you drive east.
- Carry some snacks and water for the road — services are limited between small towns.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen — sunlight intensifies when you descend to lower-altitude deserts.
Walk and photos at Todra (Todra) Gorges
Arrive at Todra Gorge. Free time for a short walk and photography along the canyon base with its dramatic vertical cliffs.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy shoes for the short canyon walk — some sections have loose gravel.
- Special moment: Late morning provides good light between the canyon walls for dramatic couple portraits.
- Respect climbers and local guides working in the gorge; avoid blocking narrow trail sections.
Drive toward Merzouga (Erg Chebbi) with lunch en route
Continue east toward Erfoud and Merzouga. Lunch break on the way before reaching the dunes.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan for a longer driving segment — use the time to enjoy the changing landscape from canyons to desert.
- Bring layers: desert nights cool dramatically after sunset even when daytime is hot.
- Keep bottled water accessible; hydration is important while traveling in arid regions.
Camel ride to desert bivouac at Erg Chebbi (1h30 at sunset)
Transfer to the base of the dunes and take a 1h30 camel ride at sunset to your desert bivouac. Enjoy drums and dinner in the camp and sleep in a Berber tent under the stars.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: Time your camel ride to arrive at the dune crest at sunset for an unforgettable view.
- Bring a small overnight bag with essentials (toothbrush, warm layer) — larger luggage stays with the vehicle.
- If you prefer, ask for a softer-saddle camel or a short lead camel for added comfort during the ride.
Dinner and overnight in Berber desert camp (included)
Traditional dinner and overnight in a desert bivouac (nomadic tents or sleeping under the stars depending on the group and weather).
Tips from local experts:
- Bring layers and a warm hat — desert nights can be cold, especially October onward.
- If you are prone to back issues or pregnancy, inform staff in advance — camel riding and tent sleeping can be physically demanding.
- Charge devices before leaving the vehicle; many camps have limited or no charging options.
Day 4
Sunrise in the dunes, return by camel to the village, then drive via the Ziz Valley, Errachidia and Midelt to the Cedar Forest area before continuing to Fes in the evening.
Sunrise in the Merzouga dunes
Early wake-up to watch and photograph the sunrise from the dunes — a highlight of a desert visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: Sunrise is best viewed from a dune crest; arrive 10–15 minutes early to choose a spot.
- Carry a small thermos of hot tea for warmth while watching the sunrise.
- Protect your camera gear from sand with sealed bags; wind can pick up fine sand quickly.
Return to the guesthouse by camel and freshen up
Ride camels back to the nearby guesthouse/hostel, shower, and have breakfast before departing toward Midelt and Fes.
Tips from local experts:
- Pack a small towel and toiletries accessible the night before to make use of morning showers at the guesthouse.
- Allow time for camel transfer and washing — timings depend on camp proximity to the guesthouse.
- Confirm departure time with your driver the evening before to coordinate drop-off and luggage.
Drive via Ziz Valley, Errachidia, and Midelt
Long scenic drive through the Ziz Valley and up into the Middle Atlas with stops en route; brief stop in Midelt for refreshment.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring motion-sickness relief if needed; the route between valleys can be long with winding sections.
- Stop at roadside viewpoints for photos of palm groves and the Ziz river; these stops are short but worthwhile.
- Carry some snacks and water as dining options between towns are limited and scheduled stops are brief.
Visit Cedar Forest (wild monkeys) and short stop
Stop at the cedar forest area (near Azrou/Ifrane) to observe Barbary macaques in their habitat and enjoy a short walk.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: A short shaded walk in the cedar forest makes for a restful mid-afternoon break with photo opportunities.
- Do not feed or touch the monkeys; keep a safe distance and secure loose items (hats, cameras).
- Wear comfortable shoes — paths can be uneven and sometimes muddy after rain.
Arrive to Fes (evening) and overnight in riad
Continue through the Middle Atlas and arrive in Fes in the evening. Overnight at a riad in Fes.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your riad’s check-in procedure for late arrivals; many riads provide individual arrival instructions.
- Special moment: A rooftop tea at dusk in Fes el Bali can be a peaceful end to a long travel day.
- If you need local currency, there are ATMs in Fes city centre; keep small bills for tips.
Day 5
Full-day guided exploration of Fes el Bali: Medersa el-Attarine, Chouara tannery, Fondouk Nejjarine, and the medina’s winding souks. Overnight in riad.
Guided Fes el Bali medina walking tour
Full day discovering the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco with a local guide: Medersa el-Attarine, Chouara Tannery, Fondouk Nejjarine (Nejjarine Museum) and souk sections.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: Ask your guide for a quiet rooftop viewpoint near the tanneries at mid-morning for unobstructed photos.
- Dress respectfully for old city visits (shoulders and knees covered) and wear comfortable shoes for uneven cobblestones.
- Carry small change for purchases, tips, and to sample street food; bottled water is advisable in the medina.
Breakfast in the riad (included)
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your riad before the guided city exploration.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a packed snack if you prefer to carry something for mid-morning energy during the medina walk.
- Try local msemen or fresh orange juice as a light, refreshing start to the day.
- Notify the riad of any food restrictions the night before to ensure breakfast is prepared appropriately.
Return to riad and overnight in Fes
Late afternoon return to your riad to rest; overnight in the riad in Fes el Bali.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a riad room with a private bathroom if you prefer extra privacy after a busy walking day.
- Special moment: Enjoy a quiet rooftop moment after the medina tour — evening lights create a different atmosphere.
- If you plan on shopping, agree prices before purchase and use small denominations to avoid needing change.
Day 6
Drive early to Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains. Spend the day in the blue-painted medina and overnight in Chefchaouen.
Depart Fes to Chefchaouen (early morning)
Early departure from Fes heading north through the Rif Mountains toward Chefchaouen, known for its blue-painted medina.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: If timing allows, stop at a viewpoint on approach to Chefchaouen for panoramic photos of the blue town.
- The drive is several hours — bring light snacks and water for the road.
- Carry Euros or dirhams for small purchases in Chefchaouen; some small shops prefer cash.
Exploration of Chefchaouen medina (Spanish-influenced style)
Arrive and explore the medina’s blue streets, small craft shops, and relaxed cafés. Enjoy free time for wandering and photography.
Tips from local experts:
- Blue paint can rub off on fabrics when wet; avoid leaning textiles against painted walls and be careful with light-colored clothes.
- Special moment: Late afternoon light softens the blue tones — head to the main square (Plaza Uta el-Hammam) for sunset tea.
- Wear comfortable shoes; many streets are stepped or cobbled and some alleys are narrow.
Overnight in Chefchaouen (Hotel Molino Garden / Ras El Ma area)
Overnight stay in Chefchaouen area hotels (examples: Molino Garden area or Ras El Ma).
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a room facing the medina or a quiet garden for a romantic setting.
- Reserve dinner early during high season; many small restaurants fill quickly in the medina.
- Confirm walking distance from hotel to the medina if you prefer minimal walking with luggage.
Day 7
Drive from Chefchaouen to Rabat for a short visit to Hassan Tower / Tour Hassan, then continue to Casablanca to visit the Hassan II Mosque. Overnight in Casablanca.
Depart Chefchaouen to Rabat (morning)
After breakfast in Chefchaouen, depart toward Rabat (the capital), with scenic driving across the Rif and Atlantic plains.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: Morning light across the plains offers good photo stops if you prefer a short break en route.
- Plan for restroom stops in larger towns along the route; services can be limited on some stretches.
- Keep passports handy for hotel check-ins later in Rabat or Casablanca if required.
Visit Hassan Tower (Tour Hassan) in Rabat
Short visit to the Hassan Tower complex and its surrounding archaeological site in Rabat.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: The esplanade offers broad views — a good quiet spot for a couple’s photo.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the monument and gardens.
- Respect signage; some areas near religious sites may have limited access for tourists.
Drive to Casablanca and visit Hassan II Mosque
Continue to Casablanca and visit the Hassan II Mosque — one of the largest and most prominent mosques in Morocco (visit times depend on prayer schedule and access hours).
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: The mosque’s oceanfront setting is particularly scenic near sunset if timing allows.
- Dress respectfully when visiting the mosque (cover shoulders and knees); guided tours are the usual way to enter interiors.
- Allow time to park and walk from drop-off points; the mosque complex is extensive.
Overnight in Casablanca (Hotel Campanile or similar)
Overnight stay in Casablanca at centrally located hotel accommodation.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a quieter room away from the main road if you prefer a restful night.
- Try an early evening stroll along the Corniche for a seaside walk before dinner.
- Confirm breakfast time with reception if you have an early departure planned the next day.
Day 8
Drive from Casablanca back to Marrakech. Free time in Marrakech to revisit favorite spots in the city. Overnight in Marrakech riad.
Drive Casablanca to Marrakech
Morning departure from Casablanca and return drive to Marrakech (approximately 2.5–3 hours, depending on traffic).
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: If time allows, stop at a roadside viewpoint for panoramic shots of the plains between the cities.
- Expect some traffic near Casablanca; allow extra time if you have evening plans in Marrakech.
- Keep a copy of your riad address and directions for easier drop-off in the medina.
Free time in Marrakech (afternoon)
Free time to explore Marrakech independently — suggestions include Jemaa el-Fna, Majorelle Garden (if pre-booked), or relaxing at your riad.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: Plan a rooftop dinner or sunset tea overlooking Jemaa el-Fna for a romantic evening.
- If visiting Majorelle Garden, pre-book tickets as it can be busy and queues form.
- Use reputable taxis or ask your riad to arrange a short transfer if you prefer not to walk with luggage or late in the day.
Overnight in Marrakech riad (included)
Overnight stay in the same or similar riad as at the start of the itinerary.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a late check-in if you expect to arrive after a busy day of exploring.
- Special moment: Book a private rooftop table for a relaxed final evening in Marrakech’s old city.
- Confirm pick-up details for airport transfer on day 9 with reception.
Day 9
Free time in Marrakech before private transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for departure.
Free time in Marrakech (final morning)
Breakfast at the riad and free time to stroll the medina, shop, or relax at your riad before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: Enjoy a final rooftop breakfast overlooking the medina to conclude your trip.
- Pack luggage the night before and verify any transport arrangements with reception early in the morning.
- Bring small notes for last-minute tips for riad staff and guides; keeping small denominations helps.
Private transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport
Private transfer from your riad to Marrakech Menara Airport for your onward flight. Driver will assist with luggage to the agreed meeting point at the airport.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your flight check-in time and allow at least 2–3 hours for international flights when scheduling your transfer.
- Driver will meet you at the riad at the pre-arranged time—ensure your phone is reachable for any last-minute coordination.
- Keep boarding passes and passports together for a smooth airport check-in process.
Breakfast at riad (included)
Included breakfast at the riad before transfer; finalize any outstanding items with riad staff.
Tips from local experts:
- Have breakfast earlier than transfer if you prefer extra time at the airport to relax.
- Settle any pending bills or tips directly with riad reception before departure.
- Ask the riad to call a taxi for any last-minute needs if required after the driver departs.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 9 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 12 |
| Restaurants | 5 |
| Total Activities | 24 |
| Total Places | 24 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Meal, Hotel, Culture, Outdoor, Experience, Attraction, Neighborhood, Break |
