Morocco Desert tour in 9 days from Tangier

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast followed by time to explore the enchanting blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen. Afterwards, we journey to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the well-preserved mosaics and historical structures that offer a glimpse into the past. Our trip continues to the imperial city of Meknes. Here, we'll visit significant landmarks including the grand Bab Al-Mansour gate, the Sahrij Souani basin, the Royal Stables, the old granary, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. We end the day in Fes, where you will check in and spend the night in a traditional Riad within the Medina.

After breakfast, embark on a comprehensive guided tour of Fes, another of Morocco's historic imperial cities and a major center of culture and religion. The tour commences with a visit to the Royal Palace gate. Next, delve into the well-preserved medieval Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enter through the famous Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud) and explore key attractions within, such as the Medrasa Bouanania, the Najjarine fountain, and the traditional Tanneries. You will also visit the Quaraouin mosque and university, recognized as the world’s oldest university. Later, discover the historic Jewish quarter (Mellah) and enjoy panoramic views over the sprawling Medina from an old fortress viewpoint. Return to your Riad for a restful night.

Depart Fes after breakfast, heading south through Imouzzer towards Ifrane, often called the "Switzerland of Morocco" for its alpine-style buildings and cooler climate. Continue the journey to the cedar forest near Azrou, home to Barbary macaques; you'll have a chance to see or even feed them. After a lunch break in Midelt, we drive across the Tizi-n-Tilghmt pass and descend into the stunning Ziz Valley, pausing for photographs of the vast palm groves. Arrive in Merzouga in the late afternoon. Here, you'll meet your camels for a memorable trek into the Sahara Desert dunes of Erg Chebbi. Pause atop a high dune to witness the spectacular desert sunset. Your overnight stay will be at a traditional nomad desert camp, complete with Berber drum music and dancing under the starlit sky.

After breakfast at the camp or back in Merzouga, spend the day exploring the diverse Merzouga desert area. You'll visit towering sand dunes, seasonal natural lakes, mines, fossil sites, and lush oases. Begin with an off-road drive to an old eyeliner mine. Then, visit local nomads in their traditional handwoven tents, learning about their way of life over a cup of Berber tea. Next, head to Khamlia village, famous for its Gnaoua music and dance performances originating from sub-Saharan Africa. Following an optional lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy a walk through a palm grove and visit Merzouga’s wild lake (Dayet Srji), often frequented by flamingos and other migratory birds (seasonal). Return to Merzouga for dinner and an overnight stay in a hotel room.

Rise early to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes – a truly magical desert experience. After breakfast, depart the Sahara region for Rissani, the ancient capital of the Tafilalet region. If your visit coincides with market days (typically Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday), you can explore its vibrant traditional souk. Continue to Erfoud, known for its fossils, where you'll visit a workshop showcasing fossilized marble crafts. Travel through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad to reach the magnificent Todra Gorges, a dramatic canyon carved by the Todra River, featuring towering red cliffs perfect for walking and exploring. After an optional lunch, continue the journey to the Dades Valley. Along the way, stop to see the unique "monkey fingers" rock formations and enjoy views from a mountain vantage point overlooking the valley. Dinner and an overnight stay are included at a hotel or kasbah in the Dades Valley.

After breakfast, drive towards Kalaa Magouna to explore the beautiful Rose Valley, famous for its Damascus roses and rose products. If traveling in May, you might witness the annual Rose Festival. Continue your journey via the "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs" through the extensive palm groves of Skoura, visiting the historic Kasbah of Amredhyle. Reach Ouarzazate, often called the "Hollywood of Africa," where you can visit film studios (optional) and the impressive Taourirt Kasbah. Proceed to the renowned Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a striking fortified village and UNESCO World Heritage site, famous as a backdrop for many international films. Explore the nearby Telouet Kasbah before beginning the ascent over the majestic High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-N-Tichka pass (2260m). Enjoy stops for lunch and panoramic photos en route before arriving in the vibrant city of Marrakech. The tour service for the day concludes with a drop-off at your Riad in Marrakech.

Following breakfast, enjoy a full-day guided tour of Marrakech, the "Red City." Your local guide will lead you through highlights including the exquisite Bahia Palace, the historic Saadian Tombs, and the Ben Youssef Quranic Mosque. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere as you wander through the largest traditional souk in Morocco. Take a break for lunch near the famous Jemaa El-Fna square. Afterwards, visit the Koutoubia Mosque (exterior view), the city's largest mosque, and the tranquil Majorelle Garden. Conclude the guided tour with a transfer back to your Riad. You'll have free time in the evening to explore Jemaa El-Fna square independently, experiencing its transformation into a lively hub of food stalls, storytellers, musicians, and performers.

On your final day, after breakfast at your Marrakech accommodation, we will drive you to Casablanca. Depending on your flight departure time, there may be an opportunity to visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca (exterior or interior, subject to timing and entrance fees). Finally, we will ensure you arrive at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in good time for your flight, marking the end of your unforgettable 9-day Moroccan adventure that started in Tangier.