Customized 9 days Morocco tour itinerary Between Tangier and Marrakesh

Brief descriptions of the nine places we visited:

Tangier:

Our 9-day trip in Morocco will begin in the city of Tangier. Between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Oceans in northern Morocco, Sophax “Sufax,” a Berber hero or deity, constructed it around 1320. Distance from Spain has a major cultural effect on Tangier; it is just around 14 kilometers from the port to Gibraltar.

Hercules settled in Tangier, and around 14 kilometers to the southwest, he dug a cave in the cliffs. Opening to the public in 1920, it has been there ever since. As a result, it’s a popular destination for sightseers that come to Tangier. The form of the caverns that lead to the ocean resembles a map of Africa.

One of the United States’ governmental buildings is located in Tangier; it’s the country’s first overseas structure since 1821. Tangier presently has a library and museum dedicated to the study of Arabic. In addition, the US National Register of Historic Places included it among its entries in 1981.

Chefchaouen:

In Amazigh, also known as Berber, it is known as Chefchaouen, Chaouen, or Iskaouen. During the Portuguese conquest of Morocco in 1471, Sherif Moulay Ali Ben Rachid constructed the Kasbah that would become known as the “blue city.” The settlement is between two horn-shaped mountains in the Rif. That’s why the Berbers called it Iskaouen at first, until the Spanish renamed it Chaouen and Chefchaouen.

Numerous accounts date back to 1492 and the rumored blue painting of the city’s walls. Many first-hand accounts attribute the hue to mosquito protection measures employed by the Ghomara, Jewish, and Spanish settlers. Some people think only Jews dyed it because blue represents freedom in their culture. When we visit there, people also tell us that the sky was formerly tinted blue.

Besides exploring the city on foot and gawking at its azure buildings. To learn more about the city, there are numerous places to see.

The first place you should go in the city is the Kasbah museum, where you can learn everything about the city’s history after the invasion. You may also find numerous photos of Chaouen there. This Kasbah also has about eleven towers.

Second, if you want to relax with a drink of tea in a pleasant atmosphere, go to the plaza of Wetat Lhmam, which is not on the other side of the Kasbah. In addition, there are musicians who play for visitors.

Third, a trip to the Ras El Ma waterfalls is well worth it so that you may put on some of the native clothing and get your photo taken with a local. Hike up to the Spanish Church for a bird’s-eye perspective of the city.

Fes, city of culture:

Cities of all economic, historical, and cultural significance are well-known in Morocco. On the list of cultural capitals of Morocco, Fes comes in at number one. There are three distinct sections to Marrakech: the contemporary city, the Jewish quarter, and Fes El Bali. Fes El Bali is the oldest and, hence, the most popular with tourists. The Idrisid dynasty established it in 789. Here is a list of some of the finest attractions in Fes:

Dar El Makhzen, also known as the King’s Palace, is another name for the royal residence in Morocco. There are a total of twelve palaces throughout Morocco, two of which are located right here in Fes. It’s the one in Fes that sees the greatest foot traffic because to its 7 golden gates and impressive design. Also, construction began in 1960.

The Madrasas (schools) in Bou Inania and Attarine are two of the finest surviving examples of Moorish design and construction. In reference to the plaza now known as Attarine, the term “Attar” refers to a merchant who deals in spices. Faris ibn Ali Abu Inan al-Mutawakkil, the Marinid ruler of Morocco, is where the name Bou Inania originates.

This institution, first constructed as a mosque by Fatima Al Fihri in 859, became a university in 1963. As a result, many argue that this institution predates Alma Mater Studiorum in Bologna, Italy, and is thus the world’s oldest continuously operating university.

Chouara’s Tannery: Fes is home to not one, but three leather tanneries. But the Chouara is the greatest and most popular of all of them. In the 11th century, it was constructed. In light of this, Fes is well-known for 100% leather goods such as apparel and footwear. please find attached a photo.

Ifrane:

Ifran in the European alpine style of construction. With regard to cleanliness, this city ranks #1 in all of Morocco and 12th worldwide. Originating in the 1600s, it has stood the test of time. The contemporary city, however, was constructed in 1928, under French colonial rule in Morocco. You may be wondering where the term “Ifrane” comes from; it derives from the Berber word “Ifri,” which meaning “cave.” The settlement is at an elevation of around 1,660 meters (5,460 feet) in the Atlas Mountains (1,665 m). This is why it attracts so many snowboarders from the area every winter. The Atlas Lions, Morocco’s national football team, also often visits here for training.

The University of Al Akhawayn in Ifrane is one of the greatest and most costly in Morocco, attracting students from all over the globe. Furthermore, one of the king’s palaces is located here, just opposite the institution.

On our 9-day vacation, we want to stop briefly at the Atlas Lion monument. During the French colonial period, a German prisoner made this figure as a means to an end: his release. In addition, this particular species of atlas lion has become extinct in the wild.

The Cedar Groves of Azrou:

One of the highlights of our 9-day trip to Morocco was a visit to the cedar groves near Azrou. A wide variety of Atlas woodland dwellers may be found here. One of them is a monkey, a species found mostly in Morocco and Algeria. In addition, the Barbary ape and the Barbary macaque are both names for the same species of monkey. They go out onto the street looking for food and drink from passing motorists. Also, unlike their Asian counterparts, these creatures are familiar with humans and hence pose no threat to humans or their property.

They’re good for photos, and they’ll approach humans if they believe we aren’t out to harm them. Most of these innovators choose to raise their kids in traditional nuclear units, where both parents share parental responsibilities. Additionally, other monkeys will assault those that attempt to join from outside the family.

Errachidia Dam and Ziz Valley:

It’s called Imtghern in Berber and it’s located in Errachidia, the Ksar souk. King Hassan’s brother is credited for naming the city Errachidia. The 2006 and 2007 Dakar Rallies passed through this city. Since the French colonization in 1912, various military outposts have been established there due to the proximity of the border between Morocco and Algeria. Additionally, political issues with western Sahara have led to its closure.

Moreover, there are several Qatari houses in the area. Campouts are a common way for them to spend time off. In addition, people go here in search of game like the Hubara Bustard.

Dam is located at the end of the Atlas Mountains, which ensures a constant supply of water. Hassan Addakhil, the progenitor of the Alaouit dynasty, is honored with the name “dam of Hassan Addakhil.” In reality, the Sahara Desert relies on the water stored in this dam, making it an integral part of the area of Errachidia.

The Ziz Valley, one of the largest in Africa, stretches over 282 kilometers (176 miles) from Morocco to Algeria. However, it’s just approximately 50 kilometers to the river where the dates originate.

Erfoud:

Mineral fossils may be found in abundance at Erfoud, and the city also hosts a yearly dates festival. Some think the river’s namesake plant, onfoud, inspired the name Erfoud; others say the name just came into use at some point. There is also the legend that two Berbers attempted to cross the river when the water was up to their knees; the word for knee in Berber is Afoud, hence the river was called after that. Also, the Berber word for “to the knee” is “Ar Afoud,” which is exactly what you’d say if you wanted to describe the water level. After then, it’s transformed into Erfoud. Arfoud, often spelled Erfoud, was constructed in 1912, during the French occupation of Algeria.

Trilobites, ammonites, and other fossils may be found in abundance in the mountains close to Erfoud.

The valley of Ziz, one of the world’s largest date production regions, is not far from Erfoud. So, in honor of dates, an annual international festival is held in October.

Desert of Merzouga:

The greatest location for a camel ride and a night under the stars in a Berber tent. A family with the Arabic surname Merzoug inspired Merzouga’s selection of that name. Others argue that the vast Erg Chebbi sand dunes are the inspiration for Merzouga’s name, which comes from the Arabic term marzoq. Merzouga is home to a scattering of remote communities. Places like Merzouga, Hassi Labied, Takojt, and Khamlia in the country’s center are home to the Gnaoua, a tribe known for their dark complexion. It may be found 50 kilometers (31 miles) southeast of Morocco’s border with Algeria.

Incredibly popular tourist destinations may be found at Merzouga. Because of this, you will see and do everything worthwhile in Morocco during our 9-day trip.

Adventure travel on camels:

A camel ride in the desert is perhaps the nicest thing to do in Merzouga, and many visitors come for for that reason. You may schedule it for the dawn or the sunset if that’s all you care about. Other individuals like going on the tour because they feel it gives them a more complete picture of the area. In other words, to spend the night in traditional Berber tents. You may also check out our Merzouga camel ride and camping packages if you’re solely interested in those activities.

Camping in Berber tents:

Spending the night in a Berber tent is the other top activity in Merzouga. Feel what it’s like to be a nomadic Berber while participating in this activity. There, native Berbers will play drums for you and show you the ideal sand dunes to gaze at the Milky Way from.

Go on an adventure in Srij Lake:

Merzouga’s camel herders spend their days in the Srij, a significant lake in the city. You may also see flamingos there, which is an interesting sight. Our plan includes a stop to this site.

ATV Riding:

Our tour does not involve this particular experience. On the other hand, it’s undoubtedly among the most enjoyable activities available in Merzouga. It’s easier to ride ATVs on the dunes when it rains, particularly in the winter.

Skoura, Todgha, and Dades:

The Dades Valley, with its harmonious blend of ochre and red, is the perfect spot to see Morocco from a different perspective: as a wilderness where natural laws reclaim their rightful position.

Indeed, the Dades Gorge valley is one of the most stunning places in all of southern Morocco. Located in the Souss-Massa area between the villages of Boumalne Dades and M’semrir, the Dades is a tributary of the Drâa River that provides water to the numerous oases and fig, date, and almond trees that border its banks. The greatest dates in all of Morocco are reputed to come from this valley.

Skoura:

The Skoura palm grove cannot be ignored. From the Haskourene Berber people who supposedly called the area home when it was created by the Almohad dynasty in the 12th century, the city gets its name.

Between Ouarzazate and the Tafilalet region, the first kasbah on the route of a thousand kasbahs has all the trappings of a labyrinth, with its maze-like streets and narrow alleys stretching across an area of around 50 km2. Walks through this tangle of palm, olive, and almond trees are enjoyable whether you’re driving or strolling. Located near homes, some of which date back to the 18th century, these fruit trees are a tangible reminder of the past that unfolded there.

Dades Valley’s favored tourist status may be attributed to the striking contrast between the valley’s ochre cliffs and scorched plains with crimson matt and the sweltering summer sun. The amazing “monkey fingers” of these gorges, which stretch for nearly 170 kilometers, have made this area renowned. These cliffs’ formations are the product of nature, yet they seem like they were deliberately carved into the rock.

Known as “the Hollywood of Africa,” Ouarzazate is a major filming location.The vibrant colors of Ouarzazate are the first thing that caught my eye. Morocco is the hue of raw soil, of these adobe buildings. Just like the city itself, this shade is gentle and welcoming. Colors seen in dry, sandy environments, such as orange ochre and pinkish ochre. Next, you’ll be astonished by how peaceful the city is. It’s like being in the middle of the ocean; serene. This welcoming atmosphere will put you at ease as you make your way through the narrow streets of the old town in search of friendly people.

Ouarzazate is a city with a wealth of attractions. The best option is to get a ticket to one of the Atlas studios; Oscar Studio is the most popular. The Kasbahs of Touarirt and Ait Benhaddou are excellent resources for learning about the film industry in Morocco. You may also discover resources for filmmaking here. Dolls, wooden automobiles, and other such items are available. If you have already traveled to Los Angeles and have seen Hollywood, you probably won’t want to go back.

Second, the Kasbah of Taourirt, built by the Thami Glaoui family, has become an icon of Ouarzazate. This Kasbah, with its 300 chambers, is a strange labyrinth. Those who want to visit must purchase admission. Therefore, the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou is where you should be spending your time.

This is the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah.

Location:

The Kasbah sits in the rural commune of At Zineb, in the Amrezgane circle, some 30 kilometers northwest of the city of Ouarzazate. It is on the eastern bank of the Assif Marghen in the valley of the Ounila, a former route used by caravans carrying goods between the Sahara and the Mediterranean. The hill upon which it is built is known as Taourirt-n-Ighrem.

History:

The kasbah’s placement on an important commerce route made it desirable to the many Moroccan rulers that came and went. According to legend, a Jewish Berber princess named Ighrem n-Iqddarn built the first structure in the Kasbah and governed from there until the Sous (see the similarities with al Kahina?).

According to a document left by the village notary, the first core of the Kasbah was founded by the Ait Aissa or Hmad in the XIIth century as a tribute to help the general “Ben Haddou” appointed by the Almoravid sultan Youssef Ibn Tachefine bring peace to the region, which was notorious for its caravan activities and tribal conflicts. Studies have shown that the oldest artifacts in the kasbah do not date back farther than the 17th century, although oral history claims that the area was colonized by the Portuguese at some point.

At Ait Benhaddou in the nineteenth century:

Throughout the nineteenth century, the kasbah served as the house of several prominent Makhsen and was an unmistakable symbol of Makhsen authority in the area. During his last Harka, in 1893–1894, Sultan El Hassan I traveled through the area on his way to Telouat and ultimately Marrakech. He put Pasha El Glaoui in charge of the southern provinces. Although the Ait Ben Haddou were allies of the Glaoua, the Ait Ouaouzguit were their enemies.

During the colonial era, the Ait Ben Haddou were confined to the kasbah, earning it the moniker “the Mont Saint Michel des Chleuhs,” and it was easily taken by the French protectorate with the help of Thami Glaoui, the new Pasha of Marrakech. The villagers on the west side of the Assif Marghen only erected their new settlement after gaining their freedom.

The Red City of Marrakech:

History:

Marrakech was established by the Almoravids in the year 1062. Mosques and Koranic schools helped transform the city into a religious and economic hub for the whole Maghreb and sub-Saharan Africa. Construction begins on ramparts, palaces, and the irrigation system that brings water from the highlands.

Cordoba and Seville’s Andalusian influence blends with that of desert nomads and inhabitants from the southern Sahara in terms of both culture and architecture.

The Almoravids’ imperial capital of Marrakech stretches from central Spain to the Senegal River and from the Atlantic coast to Algiers.

Visiting Marrakesh and the Almohades:

In 1147, the Almohads were victorious and captured the city. After a long siege, the Almoravids are finally defeated and their survivors retreat to the Balearic Islands. Monuments have been demolished.

The Almohads are a group of conservative Muslims who hail from the High Atlas Mountains. The Koutoubia Mosque, the city’s most famous, is constructed (1199). It was designed as a mirror image of the Giralda in Seville by the same architect. The watering system has been fine-tuned.

Then, the succession to the sultanship is up in the air, but the market will always be open. As Marrakech falls into disrepair, Fez rises to prominence as the new capital of Morocco.

In Marrakech’s Golden Era:

Marrakech entered a new era of prosperity at the start of the 16th century, when the Saadian family was in power.

El Badi Palace (1578), a copy of the Alhambra Palace in Granada, was constructed in the city of Abu Dhabi, the capital of exquisite palaces. The Medersa Ben Youssef, one such monument, has just undergone restoration.

The Saadian dynasty restored Marrakech to its former prominence as a hub connecting the Maghreb, the Mediterranean, and sub-Saharan Africa through trade routes.

The twentieth century saw:

At the turn of the century, Marrakech was rocked by tribal uprisings and European meddling.

Upon Morocco in 1912, France imposes its protectorate. The western neighborhood of Guéliz, located to the northwest of the Medina of Marrakech, would be built during the colonial era.

The Algerian War of Independence began in 1956 on the eastern frontiers of Morocco. Marokko wins its freedom from Spain. Jews in Morocco are concerned about the impending French withdrawal from the country and are debating whether to relocate to Israel, France, or the United States.

With support from the monarchy and the Israeli government, the movement gained momentum after the Six-Day War in 1967. Only around 3,000 Jews are still alive now, out of an original 270,000.

Morocco’s appearance has been drastically altered, much like that of Eastern Europe after WWII. There will no longer be any cohabitation of the kind that has existed for the last few hundred years.

In the 1920s, Majorelle was a pioneer, and Yves Saint Laurent, over 60 years later, is a contemporary. Many 20th-century artists from France and others made Marrakech their permanent home. Others soon followed, purchasing and restoring riads and gardens (for an example, see The Secret Garden) to contribute to the city’s newfound cultural vitality.