Highlights
For colorful yet manageable adventure travel consider a road trip through Morocco. Roads are generally in good condition and the people friendly. With busy medinas, rugged landscapes and tantalizing dishes there is plenty to explore.
Itinerary
On our 17 day road trip through Morocco in March/April of 2013 we started in Marrakesh and drove through the Dades and Todra gorges on the way to the sand dunes of Merzouga. We then headed north through the High and Middle Atlas mountain ranges to visit the cities of Meknes and Fes. We chilled for a couple of days in the quaint mountain town of Chefchaouen before catching a flight from Casablanca back to France.
Marrakesh
Marrakesh First Impressions
Post includes visits to Djemaa el Fna, the Badi and Bahia Palaces, and the Dar Si Said Museum as well as first impressions of the Marrakesh Medina.
Marrakesh Day 2
Post includes visits to the Marjorelle Gardens, Maison de la Photographie and the Ali ben Youssef Medrasa as well as more photos from the medina.
Crossing the High Atlas from Marrakesh to Skoura
A picturesque drive through Morocco’s highest mountain passes. Post includes a review of the Jardins de Skoura guesthouse.
Dades Gorge
Photo journal of this stunning gorge outside of Boumalne.
Todra Gorge – Tinerhir
Arriving at Todra Gorge
First views of the Todra Gorge and a review of Auberge le Festival, up the valley in a tranquil and isolated location.
Hiking Todra Gorge
Hike, sans guide, up the river valley that begins just across the road from the Auberge le Festival.
Hiking Above Todra Gorge
Hiking, this time with a guide, on a difficult but incredible trail above the gorge.
Erg Chebbi Dunes – Merzouga
Camel Excursion through the Dunes – Merzouga
This first exploration of the Erg Chebbi sand dunes is on a overnight excursion by camel to one of the dune’s oasis camps.
Amazir – Laid Back Auberge in the Dunes, Merzouga
Review of the Auberge Amazir.
Photos from Erg Chebbi Dunes – Merzouga
Photo journal of a walk in the dunes.
The Dunes to Meknes
The long drive across the High and Middle Atlas mountain ranges to Meknes, located in a verdant valley.
Meknes
Meknes Medina in Pictures
Photo journal of this quaint medina.
Day Trip to Volubilis
Visit to the 2nd century Roman ruin site on a turbulent spring morning.
Sleeping and Dining in Meknes
Meknes hotel and restaurant recommendations.
Fes
Meknes to Fes
Post includes hotel and restaurant recommendations in Fes as well as driving and parking tips.
The Fes Medina
Photo journal of this bustling medina.
Chefchaouen
Fes to Chefchaouen
Post includes hotel and restaurant recommendations in Chefchaouen as well as driving and parking tips.
Chefchaouen Medina in Pictures
Photo journal of this charming blue medina.
Day Hikes in Talassemtane National Park
A short drive out of Chefchaouen affords great views and hiking opportunities.
Loop Drive from Chefchaouen to the Med
Amazing fresh fish lunch by the sea.
Casablanca
Driving to Casablanca
Post includes tips on driving in Casablanca.
Stepping Back in Time at Rick’s Cafe, Casablanca
Our last evening in Morocco at this restaurant inspired by the film classic “Casablanca”.
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