What's a good first-time Morocco itinerary?

For a first visit, the classic Marrakech loop is hard to beat because it packs Morocco's greatest hits into a single, logical circuit. Fly into Marrakech and give yourself two nights to acclimatise: explore the souks, watch the evening unfold on Jemaa el-Fnaa, visit the Bahia Palace and the Majorelle Garden, and ease into the pace. Marrakech can feel overwhelming on day one and magical by day two, so don't judge the country by your first afternoon.

From Marrakech, head south and east over the dramatic Tizi n'Tichka pass. Break the journey at Ait Ben Haddou, the fortified earthen village you'll recognise from countless films, and Ouarzazate. The second day takes you through the Dades or Todra gorges and on to the dunes — Merzouga for the big Saharan ergs, or Zagora if you're shorter on time. A night in a desert camp, with dinner under the stars and a camel ride at sunrise, is the emotional centre of most people's trip.

The return journey loops back through the Draa or Dades valley, past palm groves, rose-growing villages and old kasbahs, before recrossing the Atlas to Marrakech. That seven-day version is complete and satisfying on its own. If you have ten days, the natural extension is to drive north to Fes — the most intact medieval city in the Arab world — and from there visit Chefchaouen, the photogenic blue-painted town in the Rif, or detour to the Roman ruins at Volubilis.

A common rookie mistake is over-scheduling. Morocco's long drives mean that adding "just one more" destination often costs you a whole day in the car. It is far better to have an unhurried afternoon free in Fes or a slow morning in the desert than to spend it racing between sights. Build in at least one genuinely empty half-day — you'll be grateful for it.

On logistics: a private driver-guide is the most relaxing way to do this route, because the distances and mountain roads are tiring to self-drive and you gain local context at every stop. If you prefer independence, the train network links the northern cities (Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Fes) beautifully, while the desert leg is best done with a guide regardless. Whatever you choose, end your trip in the city with the best flight home rather than backtracking to where you started.