9 Days Desert Tour from Tangier

Day 1: Tangier – Tetouan – Chefchaouen (The Blue City)

Your Moroccan odyssey begins in Tangier, a coastal city where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. After pick-up, we drive through the lush Rif Mountains toward the magical town of Chefchaouen.

Highlights:

• Visit Tetouan, a charming Andalusian-influenced city.

• Scenic mountain route with incredible views.

• Arrival in Chefchaouen, Morocco’s iconic blue-painted city.

• Leisurely afternoon exploring the medina, Spanish Mosque, and artisan markets.

Overnight in Chefchaouen in a traditional riad with mountain views.

Day 2: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

After breakfast, we set off on a historical and cultural journey through ancient Morocco.

Highlights:

• Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, famed for its mosaic floors and columns.

• Discover the imperial city of Meknes, including Bab Mansour, the Royal Granaries, and El Hedim Square.

• Evening arrival in Fes, the spiritual and intellectual heart of Morocco.

Overnight in Fes in a beautifully restored riad in the medina.

Day 3: Full-Day Fes Guided Tour – Dive into Ancient Traditions

Spend the day exploring Fes el-Bali, one of the world’s oldest living medieval cities.

Highlights:

• Visit the Al Quaraouiyine University, founded in 859.

• See the Chouara Tannery, an iconic leather-dyeing site.

• Explore Bou Inania Madrasa, souks, and artisan workshops.

• Stroll through the maze-like medina with a knowledgeable local guide.

Overnight in the same riad in Fes for continued comfort and immersion.

Day 4: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Merzouga Desert

Today, the landscape transforms from green highlands to Saharan dunes.

Highlights:

• Visit Ifrane, Morocco’s cleanest and most European-style city.

• Stop in Azrou’s cedar forest to see the Barbary macaques.

• Enjoy lunch in Midelt, nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains.

• Scenic drive through the Ziz Valley to reach the edge of the Sahara.

• Camel trek through the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset.

Overnight in a luxury desert camp, where you’ll enjoy dinner, music, and stargazing.

Day 5: Merzouga Desert Exploration – Nomads – Khamlia – Black Desert

Spend the day exploring the magical region of Merzouga and its surroundings.

Highlights:

• Visit a nomadic family living in traditional tents.

• Explore the black desert and fossil beds.

• Enjoy Gnawa music in Khamlia Village, performed by descendants of Sub-Saharan slaves.

• See the seasonal Lake of Merzouga (when present) and flamingos.

• Optional quad biking or sandboarding on the dunes.

Overnight in a Merzouga hotel or riad, with views of the dunes.

Day 6: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

After an unforgettable sunrise and breakfast, we head toward the mountainous heart of southern Morocco.

Highlights:

• Visit the traditional market of Rissani, home to historical caravan trading.

• Explore the dramatic Todra Gorges, ideal for photos and light hiking.

• Travel through Berber villages and palm groves to the Dades Valley.

Overnight in a charming hotel located in the Dades Gorge.

Day 7: Dades Valley – Skoura – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou

Today is all about kasbahs and cinematic landscapes.

Highlights:

• Journey through the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.

• Stop in Skoura Oasis to see Amridil Kasbah.

• Visit Ouarzazate, Morocco’s film hub, with optional stop at the Atlas Film Studios.

• Explore Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar famous for films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

Overnight in a guesthouse facing Ait Ben Haddou for sunset views.

Day 8: Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

We begin our journey across the High Atlas Mountains, passing through traditional Berber villages and mountain passes.

Highlights:

• Drive through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m).

• Spectacular panoramic stops along the way.

• Arrival in Marrakech, Morocco’s Red City.

• Short city orientation or optional hammam/spa experience.

Overnight in Marrakech in a beautifully designed riad near Jemaa el-Fnaa.

Day 9: Marrakech Guided Tour – The Red City Experience

Our final day is dedicated to discovering the wonders of Marrakech, a city of contrasts and color.

Highlights:

• Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech.

• Explore the Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs.

• Wander through the lively souks, filled with spices, leather goods, and crafts.

• Visit Majorelle Garden (optional) or sip mint tea overlooking the medina.

• Enjoy the energy of Jemaa el-Fnaa square with snake charmers, storytellers, and street food.

Tour ends with a drop-off at the airport or your accommodation.

What’s Included in the 9 Days Morocco Desert Tour from Tangier

• Private transport in air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle or minibus

• English-speaking driver/guide throughout the tour

• 8 nights of accommodation in riads and desert camp

• Daily breakfast and 6 dinners

• Camel trek and sandboarding in the Sahara

• Guided city tours in Fes and Marrakech

• Entrance fees to historical sites (optional)

Why Choose Our 9-Day Tangier Desert Tour?

• Carefully crafted itinerary with cultural, historical, and natural highlights.

• Authentic Moroccan experiences, including nomadic visits and desert camping.

• Fully private and customizable tour options.

• Hand-picked accommodations for comfort and charm.

• Experienced guides who bring Morocco’s history to life.