We (4 adults) are spending a month in southern Spain and have 4 days to spend in Morocco. I've seen a lot of 2, 3, and 4 day tours that start in either Fez or Marrakech but none of them include tours of the cities themselves. I think we would have choose 1 city to focus on, if we also do a desert tour. I'd appreciate thoughts about the best way to do this. Is it worth skipping one city in favor of a tour through the Atlas Mtns and desert?
Thanks in advance.
KH
Posted by
Sidney, BC, Canada
975 posts
Fez is the city I would choose as my base and you definitely need a guide for the Medina/old city. Can’t help with suggestions for a guide as I was a part of a tour group. Morocco is a diverse country with a lot to see - mountains, desert, palm trees, gorges, rivers,coastlines, ancient cities, great food… Fez was certainly the highlight for me. Marrakech is interesting but has a much more European vibe. When we went through the Atlas there was still snow in some places
Posted by
NC
396 posts
Completely agree with @Lesley. On a wonderful self-drive tour of Morocco a few years ago, our highlight was Fes: We enjoyed staying in a riad and wandering the Medina on our own. Marrakech was interesting but much more touristy, whereas Fes had an authentic feel. We were hesitant about staying in the desert concerned it would be tourist folly but not so: It was great, including the camel ride in and back out. We loved everything about Morocco. With 4 days, Fes and a desert stay could be a great introduction to the country. If you can fit in the Atlas Mountains too, all the better.
Posted by
OP
Washington, DC
17 posts
Thanks that is really helpful. I have been leaning toward Fez. I think that will be great combined with a desert tour and so glad to hear it's not a tourist trap!
Posted by
1 posts
Hi harris,
If you're short on time, focusing on one city is a good idea, especially if you want to include a desert tour. Marrakech is typically the starting point for most desert and Atlas Mountain tours, so it might be worth prioritizing if you're keen on exploring both the city and the desert. You can still see key highlights in Marrakech before or after your desert trip.
For more options, some tour companies, like those on morocco roamer, offer packages that combine both city exploration and desert adventures.
Enjoy your trip!
Stay Safe