The short answer
A loop that starts in Marrakech, crosses the High Atlas to the Sahara, then heads north-west to Fes and the imperial cities, finishing in Fes, Rabat or Chefchaouen. Ten days lets you join the south and the north without rushing. If you prefer the sea to the north, swap the last two days for Essaouira.
In more detail
A typical shape: two days in Marrakech for the medina, the gardens and a hammam. Day three over the Atlas to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate. Day four through the Dades and Todra gorges to the desert. Day five on the Erg Chebbi dunes with a camel ride and a night in camp. Day six north through the Middle Atlas cedar forest and Ifrane to Fes. Days seven and eight in Fes. Day nine for Meknes and Volubilis, then on to Chefchaouen or Rabat. Day ten to fly home.
The long day is the drive from the desert to Fes, about 6h30 by road without stops via Midelt and the Ziz gorges. It is worth it for the scenery, but start early.
Fly open-jaw to make it work: into Marrakech, out of Fes. That removes the drive back south. If the north does not appeal, a ten-day trip can instead combine Marrakech, the Sahara and two or three nights on the coast at Essaouira, which is about 2h45 from Marrakech.
Good to know
- Add Chefchaouen if you love slow medina time and photography.
- Hire a licensed guide for at least one full day in Fes.
- Avoid July and August for the desert leg if you can.