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Planning 10 days in Morocco this October history lover from Canada, want to eat everything. Does my route make sense?
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Hey r/travel! I'm thrilled to share my upcoming 10-day adventure to Morocco this October! As a history lover from Canada, I’m excited to explore the rich architecture and indulge in the vibrant food scene. My route starts in Marrakech, then Fes, Chefchaouen, Merzouga, and finally Ouarzazate before heading home. I’d love your advice on whether this loop is feasible using CTM buses and trains, tips for solo exploring the Fes medina, and recommendations for local eats in Marrakech. Any hidden historical gems I shouldn't miss?
Hey r/travel! I've been obsessing over this trip for weeks and finally pulling the trigger. Flying into Marrakech from Toronto and I want to make sure my routing isn't completely insane before I book anything.
About me: Solo traveler, early 30s, been to Turkey and Portugal so I'm comfortable with busy medinas and getting a little lost. Morocco has been on my list forever — mainly because of the history and architecture, but honestly the food might be the bigger draw at this point.
My plan — 10 days, late October:
- Days 1–2: Marrakech — Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, get my bearings
- Days 3–4: Fes — I've read the medina is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the world and I need to see it
- Days 5–6: Chefchaouen — I know it's on every Instagram but I genuinely love mountain towns
- Days 7–8: Merzouga — Sahara, one night in a desert camp
- Days 9–10: Ouarzazate + Aït Benhaddou on the way back south before flying home
What I'm specifically looking for advice on:
- Is this loop doable by CTM buses + trains or am I going to waste half the trip in transit? Considering renting a car for the Merzouga → Ouarzazate leg
- Fes medina — I want to do it solo but everyone says you need a guide. Is that actually true or is it just upselling?
- Where do locals actually eat in Marrakech? I want to stay far away from the Jemaa el-Fnaa tourist menus
- I'm Canadian — do I need a visa? I checked travel.gc.ca and it says no visa required for stays under 90 days, just want to confirm that's still the case
- Any underrated history spots I might be skipping? I have flexibility to swap things around
Budget is around $2,500 CAD for everything on the ground. Already checked the wiki and the FAQ. Any help is massively appreciated — especially from anyone who's done a similar loop!
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