Morocco Desert tour in 9 days from Tangier

Duration

9 days

Tour Type

Overview

Enjoy a captivating 9-day journey through Morocco, starting from the vibrant city of Tangier and ending in the bustling metropolis of Casablanca. This meticulously crafted tour takes you through the enchanting landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture of Morocco. From the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis to the imperial cities of Meknes and Fes, each day unveils new wonders.

Travel through the majestic Rif and Atlas mountains, experience the serenity of the Sahara desert with a camel trek, and explore the picturesque gorges and valleys. Immerse yourself in the vibrant markets and historical sites of Marrakech, and marvel at the architectural beauty of iconic landmarks like Ait Ben Haddou and the Hassan II Mosque. This tour offers an unforgettable Moroccan adventure, blending scenic landscapes, cultural encounters, and historical explorations.

Highlights:

  • Discover the cultural crossroads of Tangier, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic
  • Wander through the blue streets of Chefchaouen and enjoy its tranquil charm
  • Explore the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial splendor of Meknes
  • Delve into the rich history and vibrant souks of Fes, Morocco’s cultural and religious hub
  • Experience the unique climate and architecture of Ifrane, the “Switzerland of Morocco”
  • Trek through the Sahara desert on camelback and spend a night under the stars in a desert camp
  • Visit traditional nomad camps and the vibrant village of Khamlia in the Merzouga region
  • Marvel at the dramatic landscapes of Todra Gorges and Dades Valley
  • Explore the cinematic city of Ouarzazate and the historic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
  • Traverse the stunning High Atlas Mountains and discover the treasures of Marrakech
  • End your journey with a visit to the impressive Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca

Included/Exclude

  • Accommodation in charming hotels and traditional Riads
  • Daily breakfast
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
  • Camel trek and overnight stay in a desert camp
  • Airport transfers and hotel pickups/drop-offs
  • International and domestic flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses and gratuities
  • Optional activities and excursions
  • Any additional services not mentioned in the inclusions

Tour Plan

Your Moroccan adventure kicks off in Tangier. Upon arrival at your hotel, the airport, or the port, our team will welcome you warmly. Known as "the Bride of the North," Tangier lies at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Your day begins with a tour of Tangier, including the fascinating Hercules Cave and the scenic Cape Spartel. After a complimentary lunch, we journey inland towards Chefchaouen, passing through Tetouan and the picturesque Rif mountains, making several stops for panoramic views. The night is spent in a cozy hotel in Chefchaouen.
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast, then explore the charming streets of Chefchaouen. Next, we head to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can admire the intricate mosaics and historical ruins. Our journey continues to the imperial city of Meknes, where we visit landmarks such as Bab Al-Mansour, the Sahrij Souani basin, the Royal Stables, the granary, and the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum. We end the day in Fes, where you’ll spend the night in a traditional Riad.
After breakfast, prepare for a comprehensive tour of Fes, one of Morocco's imperial cities and a hub of culture and religion. The tour begins with a visit to the Royal Palace gate, followed by a walk through the well-preserved medieval Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enter through the iconic Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud) and explore key sites within the Medina, such as the Medrasa Bouanania, the Najjarine fountain, and the Tanneries. Visit the Quaraouin mosque and university, the world’s oldest university. Later, discover the Jewish quarter (Mellah) and experience panoramic perspectives of the Medina from an historical fortress. Return in your Riad for a restful night.
Depart Fes after breakfast and travel south through Imouzzer to reach Ifrane, often referred to as "Switzerland of Morocco" due to its cool climate and alpine-style architecture. Continue to the cedar forest, home to the Barbary macaques, where you can feed them and explore. After a lunch break in Midelt, drive through the Tizi-n-Tilghmt pass and descend into the Ziz Valley, stopping for scenic views. Arrive in Merzouga in the afternoon, where you'll switch to camels for a trek through the Sahara Desert, pausing to watch the sunset from atop a high dune. Spend the night in a traditional nomad camp, enjoying Berber drum music and dancing under the stars.
Spend the day exploring the Merzouga vicinity after breakfast. Visit sand dunes, natural lakes, mines, fossil sites, and oases. Start with an off-road drive to an old eyeliner mine, then visit local nomads in their handwoven tents to learn about their lifestyle over a cup of Berber tea. Next, head to Khamlia village for Gnaoua music and dance performances. After an optional lunch at a local restaurant, walk through the palm grove and visit Merzouga’s wild lake, also known as the lake of flamingos. Return to Merzouga for dinner and an overnight stay in a hotel room.
Rise early to witness a stunning sunrise over the desert dunes. After an optional breakfast, leave the desert and head to Rissani, the old capital of Tafilalet, known for its lively souk on market days. Continue to Erfoud to go to a fossilized marble workshop. Travel through the palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad to reach the Todra Gorges, a massive canyon with towering red cliffs. Explore the gorges and enjoy the scenery. After an optional lunch, continue to the Dades Valley, stopping at the "monkey fingers" rock formation and a mountain viewpoint. Dinner and an in a single day live at a lodge are included.
After breakfast, travel to Kalaa Magouna to explore the enchanting Rose Valley. If visiting in May, you might catch the Rose Festival. Continue through Skoura’s palm orchards to the Kasbah of Amredhyle, then reach Ouarzazate to visit the film studios and the Taourirt Kasbah. Proceed to the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the Telouet Kasbah. Cross the Tizi-N-Tichka pass and the majestic High Atlas Mountains, stopping for lunch and photo opportunities, before arriving in Marrakech. The tour ends with a drop-off at your Riad in Marrakech.
After breakfast, embark on a comprehensive tour of Marrakech with a local guide. Your exploration includes the stunning Bahia Palace, the historic Saadian Tombs, and the Ben Youssef Quranic Mosque. Wander through the largest traditional souk in Morocco, absorbing the vibrant market atmosphere. Pause for lunch near the bustling Jemaa El-Fna square before continuing to the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest in Marrakech, and the serene Majorelle Garden. Conclude your day with a transfer back to your Riad. You can choose to spend some free time exploring Jemaa El-Fna square on your own, soaking in the lively ambiance of Marrakech.
On your final day, we’ll pick you up from your accommodation in Marrakech and drive you to Casablanca. Depending on your flight schedule, we may have time to visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque. Finally, we’ll ensure your timely arrival at the airport, marking the end of your unforgettable 9-day Moroccan adventure that began in Tangier.

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Tour Information

Max Guests

50

Tour Location

Languages Support

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