Here’s a detailed itinerary for a trip to Morocco that includes visits to the Moroccan Sahara, Merzouga, Chefchaouen, and Essaouira.

### Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech


– **Arrival**: Fly into Marrakech Menara Airport.
– **Accommodation**: Check into a traditional riad in the medina.
– **Activities**: Explore the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, Koutoubia Mosque, and wander through the souks.
– **Dinner**: Enjoy Moroccan cuisine at a local restaurant.

### Day 2: Marrakech to Merzouga


– **Morning**: Depart early on a guided tour towards Merzouga.
– **Route**: Travel through the High Atlas Mountains, passing by Tizi n’Tichka pass.
– **Stops**: Visit Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Ouarzazate, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.”
– **Evening**: Arrive in Merzouga, a small village on the edge of the Sahara Desert.
– **Accommodation**: Stay in a desert camp or a local guesthouse.
– **Activities**: Camel trek into the dunes to watch the sunset.

### Day 3: Exploring the Sahara Desert


– **Morning**: Enjoy the sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes.
– **Activities**:
– Sandboarding and quad biking on the dunes.
– Visit a nomadic Berber family to learn about their lifestyle.
– **Afternoon**: Relax at the camp or take a 4×4 tour to explore nearby areas like the Dayet Srji salt lake.
– **Evening**: Traditional Berber dinner with music around the campfire.

### Day 4: Merzouga to Fes


– **Morning**: Depart from Merzouga towards Fes.
– **Route**: Travel through the Ziz Valley and the Middle Atlas Mountains.
– **Stops**:
– Erfoud: Known for its fossils and dates.
– Midelt: A good spot for lunch.
– Ifrane: Known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine architecture.
– **Evening**: Arrive in Fes.
– **Accommodation**: Check into a riad in the medina.

### Day 5: Fes to Chefchaouen


– **Morning**: Spend some time exploring Fes, including the Fes el Bali medina, Al Quaraouiyine University, and the tanneries.
– **Afternoon**: Drive to Chefchaouen, the Blue City.
– **Evening**: Arrive in Chefchaouen and check into a charming riad.
– **Activities**: Stroll through the blue-painted streets of the medina.
– **Dinner**: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant with a terrace overlooking the city.

### Day 6: Chefchaouen Exploration


– **Morning**: Visit the Kasbah Museum and the central square, Plaza Uta el-Hammam.
– **Activities**:
– Hike to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views of the city.
– Explore local handicraft shops and markets.
– **Afternoon**: Relax at Ras El Maa waterfall just outside the medina.
– **Evening**: Leisure time to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Chefchaouen.

### Day 7: Chefchaouen to Essaouira


– **Morning**: Early departure for the long drive to Essaouira.
– **Route**: Travel through the scenic Rif and Atlas Mountains.
– **Stops**: Take breaks at scenic viewpoints and small towns.
– **Evening**: Arrive in Essaouira, check into a riad in the medina.
– **Dinner**: Enjoy fresh seafood at a restaurant along the harbor.

### Day 8: Exploring Essaouira


– **Morning**: Visit the historic Skala de la Ville, ramparts, and the fishing port.
– **Activities**:
– Explore the medina with its whitewashed buildings and blue shutters.
– Shop for local crafts, including thuya woodwork and jewelry.
– **Afternoon**: Relax on the beach or try windsurfing/kitesurfing.
– **Evening**: Enjoy live music and dinner at a local restaurant.

### Day 9: Essaouira to Marrakech


– **Morning**: Leisurely breakfast and last-minute shopping in Essaouira.
– **Afternoon**: Drive back to Marrakech.
– **Evening**: Arrive in Marrakech, check into a riad.
– **Activities**: Final shopping and exploration in the medina, or visit the Majorelle Garden.

### Day 10: Departure


– **Morning**: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a relaxing morning in Marrakech.
– **Departure**: Transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure.

### Additional Tips


– **Travel Arrangements**: Consider hiring a local guide or joining a tour group for parts of the trip, especially in the Sahara.
– **Cultural Considerations**: Respect local customs and dress modestly, particularly in rural areas.
– **Health and Safety**: Stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and ensure you have travel insurance.

This itinerary provides a blend of Morocco’s diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and historic sites, ensuring a memorable trip.