The Ultimate Solo Travel Itinerary for Morocco: A 10-Day Journey
Morocco is a country of contrasts — bustling medinas, spellbinding deserts and breezy coastal towns.
There’s soooo much more to this North African gem than I imagined when I first travelled here in 2014. In terms of landscapes, it’s far more diverse than I thought and the cities feel completely different between the north and the south.
For solo travellers, Morocco is a fantastic destination to lose yourself amidst the colour and chaos, all in a safe manner. It’s easy to travel around the country independently by bus and train. Alternatively, there’s an abundance of guided tours for connecting with fellow travellers.
This 10-day Morocco itinerary balances city sightseeing with mountain adventures and a desert escape. In short, it offers a diverse perspective. I’ve included recommendations for things to do in each destination and places to stay, as well as tips for getting there.
Want to discover some of Morocco’s hidden gems? Check out my favourites beyond Marrakech.
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Day 1–2: Marrakech – The “Red City”
Start your Moroccan adventure in Marrakech, the city of ochre-red walls, energised souks and towering minarets. It’s a buzzing destination, with incredible architecture, gorgeous riads and rooftop restaurants to die for!
How to get to Marrakech:
There are regular flights to Marrakech from destinations across Europe, as well as from the Middle East and North America.
What to do in Marrakech as a solo traveller:
- Bahia Palace & Ben Youssef Madrasa: Architectural gems steeped in history – visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
- Le Jardin Secret or Majorelle Garden: Peaceful oases for quiet reflection and fantastic photographic opportunities.
- Souks: Shop for handmade leather goods, brass lanterns and Amazigh rugs – haggling is all part of the experience.
- Djemaa el-Fnaa: The city’s legendary main square — best at sunset when storytellers, musicians and food stalls come alive.
Solo travel tips for Marrakech:
- Stay in a boutique riad inside the medina – you’ll be within walking distance of all the action.
- Book a walking tour for your first day — it will help you orient yourself and is a great way to meet other travellers.
- Find a rooftop terrace to listen to the call to prayer ring out across the city at sunset.
🛏️ Stay at: Riad Livia or The Central House
For more Marrakech travel inspiration for solo travellers, head here or check out my one day Marrakech itinerary. You’ll find inspiring places to stay and recommended things to do in the “Red City”.
Day 3: Imlil – A Mountain Escape in the Atlas
Leave the hustle and bustle of Marrakech behind and make the 90-minute trip to Imlil, a picturesque village in the Atlas Mountains.
It serves as a starting point for hikes to North Africa’s highest peak, Mount Toubkal. If you’re not in the mood for such a challenging hike, Imlil also serves as a gateway to several other walking trails.
How to get to Imlil from Marrakech:
Shared taxi or private transfer from Marrakech (approx. 1.5 hours). There are also lots of guided day trips from Marrakech to Imlil if you don’t want to travel there alone.
What to do in Imlil as a solo traveller:
- Hike through traditional Amazigh villages, terraced agricultural fields and walnut groves.
- Sip tea on a terrace while enjoying the Atlas Mountains views – it’s sublime!
- Stay in a family-run guesthouse or eco-lodge to enjoy home-cooked meals.
Solo tip:
Join a share-group hike in Imlil — it’s a safe way to experience the mountains and supports the local economy. If it starts/ends in Marrakech, you can let the tour company know that you will stay the night in Imlil – they will probably even drop you at your guesthouse.
🛏️ Stay at: Atlas Prestige or Berber Family Lodge
For more information about visiting Imlil, check out my detailed travel guide here or find inspiring places to stay.
Day 4–6: The Sahara Desert – Marrakech to Fes
No Morocco itinerary is complete without visiting the Sahara Desert — camel trekking through the dunes and stargazing at night are both quintessential experiences. Overnighting at a traditional desert camp is also a “must” and offers an insight into Amazigh culture.
How to get to the Sahara Desert:
From Marrakech, join a 3-day small-group desert tour to Fes, including a stop in Ait Benhaddou. In my opinion, two days just isn’t enough and you’ll feel really rushed!
Travelling from Marrakech to Fes is a convenient route for solo travellers – it doubles as a transfer between the two ancient cities. And trust me when I say you’ll see soooooo much along the way.
What to expect on a Sahara Desert tour from Marrakech to Fes:
- Wander the ancient ksar of Ait Benhaddou – a film setting for “Game of Thrones” and “Gladiator”.
- Hike amidst the otherworldly rock formations of the Dades and Todra gorges.
- Ride a camel through the dunes to a traditional desert camp and experience incredible stargazing after dark.
- Travel to Fes via the Swiss-inspired town of Ifrane and the cedar forests of Azrou, home to endangered Barbary macaques.
Solo tip:
Don’t want to take a tour to the desert? Check out my Sahara planning guide, which is filled with everything you need to know for an independent adventure.
If you’re an introvert visiting Morocco, discover some of my top tips and tricks for staying calm amidst the chaos.
Day 7–8: Fes – Ancient Alleys and Artisan Culture
Next stop: the spiritual heart of Morocco — Fes. With its labyrinthine medina, centuries-old palaces and thriving artisan culture, it offers an authentic take on Moroccan life.
Fes boasts some excellent museums (Dar Batha and the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts are my favourites. Plus, there are some beautifully preserved madrasas (Islamic schools) to discover.
The shopping here is also world-class and the tanneries are among the oldest in the world. Oh, and did I mention that Fes has a cuisine all its own – Fassi?
What to do in Fes as a solo traveller:
- Fes el-Bali: A UNESCO-listed labyrinth of narrow alleys, souks and artisan workshops.
- Chouara Tannery: Watch the workers in action from a rooftop terrace – mint leaves at the nose help to soften the scent.
- Al Attarine Madrasa: Stunning Islamic architecture set around a peaceful courtyard.
- Dar Batha: A newly restored museum of Islamic arts with an Andalusian-style garden.
Solo tip:
Fes is an amazing city for foodies! Small-group cooking classes are great for meeting other travellers and locals in a relaxed setting. You can learn the secrets of Fassi cuisine on the open-air terrace of Palais Amani – one of the top cooking schools in Fes. Alternatively, share a meal with a Moroccan family (and help to prepare it) during this Dinner With a Family in Fes experience.
🛏️ Stay at: Riad Al Bartal or Riad Sara
For more Fes travel inspiration for solo travellers, head here or check out my one-day Fes itinerary. You’ll find inspiring places to stay and recommended things to do in this ancient city.
Day 9: Chefchaouen – Morocco’s “Blue Pearl”
From Fes, travel north to Chefchaouen, also known as the “Blue Pearl.” Nestled in the Rif Mountains, it’s one of Morocco’s most photogenic towns and the perfect place to wind down after the medina madness.
In Chefchaouen, you can spend leisurely days exploring its blue-hued medina or get active while hiking through the surrounding mountains. For solo travellers, it’s safe to explore the medina alone and the pace is far more relaxed than in Morocco’s big cities.
How to get to Chefchaouen:
CTM bus or private transfer from Fes (approx. 4–5 hours).
What to do in Chefchaouen as a solo traveller:
- Wander the blue streets and find inspiring photographic spots around every corner.
- Hike to the Spanish Mosque for sweeping views across Chefchaouen and the Rif Mountains.
- Shop for handwoven blankets, soaps and ceramics in the colourful stalls – the vendors in Chefchaouen are friendly and “hassle” is minimal.
Solo tip:
On the edge of Chefchaouen is Talassemtane National Park – home to the Cascades d’Akchour, which can be reached along a short hiking trail. For solo travellers, the easiest way to visit is as part of a guided tour. Alternatively, you can find share taxis travelling there and back.
🛏️ Stay at: Dar Echchaouen Maison d’Hôtes & Riad or Riad Nila
For more information about visiting Chefchaouen, check out my solo traveller’s guide here.
Day 10: Tangier – The Northern Gateway
Finish your adventure in Tangier, a creative coastal city that has served as the meeting point between Europe and Africa for centuries.
It’s a destination that many travellers overlook, but I love it! Tangier has a rich literary heritage, fantastic eateries (you don’t have to go upmarket to eat great food) and the street art is amazing!
How to get to Tangier:
CTM has regular buses from Chefchaouen to Tangier. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer (2.5 hours).
Tangier-Ibn Battouta Airport has flights to destinations across Europe. Ferries also travel from Tangier to Spain, France and Italy.
What to do in Tangier as a solo traveller:
- Wander the whitewashed Kasbah district – it’s home to the Museum of Mediterranean Cultures and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Watch sunset with the locals at Bab Al Bahr – it boasts wonderful views across the Strait of Gibraltar.
- Discover some of Tangier’s art galleries and museums – Dar Niaba is one of my favourites.
Solo tip:
Tangier’s cafe culture is perfect for alone time — bring a book, order a mint tea and enjoy the people-watching.
🛏️ Stay at: Kasbah Rose or Riad Dar Saba
For more information about visiting Tangier, check out my solo traveller’s guide or this one-day Tangier itinerary.
Map for this 10-day Morocco itinerary for solo travellers
A solo adventure through Morocco
Honestly, I think 10 days in Morocco is enough to gain a broad insight into the country. You can cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed and you’ll get to experience so much beyond Marrakech.
Travelling solo through Morocco isn’t just about ticking off sights. It’s listening to the call to prayer echoing through the medina, chatting with locals over mint tea and experiencing the silence of the desert under a thousand stars.
I hope this 10-day Morocco itinerary for solo travellers helps to ignite your curiosity and serve as a template for planning an unforgettable adventure.
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Book tours and attractions via Viator or GetYourGuide
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Book flights via Kiwi or Booking
Search for buses and trains via 12Go or Omio
Get travel insurance via SafetyWing
Buy a digital eSIM with Airalo
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About Me
I’m Malika, an Australian-born travel writer with an intense love for Morocco. I first travelled here solo in 2014 and after meeting (and marrying) a local, I made this North African gem my home. Since that time, I have explored the country extensively, travelling to all corners with my partner, friends and on my own.
Morocco is an incredible destination and one that I think everyone who has the “travel bug” should experience. The scenery is spectacular, the medinas are enchanting and the locals are among the friendliest (and funniest) people I’ve ever met.
It’s no secret, however, that there a lot of questions and concerns voiced online about solo travel to Morocco, particularly from female travellers. So I wanted to create this resource filled with honest and up-to-date information. It’s designed to help solo travellers explore the country safely and have an amazing time along the way.
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Agadir | Chefchaouen | Essaouira | Fes | Marrakech | Rabat | Tangier | Travel Guides
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I’m Malika, an Australian-born travel writer with an intense love for Morocco. I first travelled here solo in 2014 and after meeting (and marrying) a local, I made this North African gem my home.
Over the last 10 years, I have explored the country extensively, travelling to all corners with my partner, friends and solo.
