13 Days Morocco Desert Tour from Tangier

Starting location

Tangier

Tour's Duration

13 Days

Destination

Merzouga

Discover Morocco’s millenary culture and rich artistic heritage on this extensive 13 days desert tour from Tangier. Explore the most iconic cities and landscapes of the country from the blue city of Chefchaouen and the bustling markets of Fez, to the majestic Sahara dunes of Erg Chebbi. Ride camels alongside Berber nomads, sleep under the stars in traditional desert camps, and experience the breathtaking valleys, kasbahs, and mountain passes of the Atlas range.

This journey offers a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and adventure as you traverse Morocco’s diverse regions and ancient cities.

  • Drive through the Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen
  • Explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes
  • Visit the ancient city of Fez with a guided tour of its UNESCO-listed medina
  • Camel ride at sunset in Merzouga’s Erg Chebbi dunes
  • Sleep under the stars in traditional Berber tents in the Sahara Desert
  • Visit the nomadic people and vibrant souks of Rissani
  • Explore the dramatic Todra Gorges and Dades Valley
  • Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
  • Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi Ntichka pass to Marrakech
  • Explore Marrakech’s historic sites and lively markets
  • Visit the coastal city of Essaouira and enjoy its relaxed atmosphere
  • Tour Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque and the historic city of Rabat
  • Return to Tangier via scenic villages and landscapes

Detailled Itineray

Day 1: Tangier – Chefchaouen

Meet your guide at Tangier port or airport and travel to Chefchaouen, the enchanting “blue city” nestled in the Rif Mountains. Wander its streets painted in blue and white, surrounded by lush greenery and the Lau River. Overnight in a hotel or riad.

Day 2: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fez

Depart Chefchaouen and head to Meknes, a historic imperial city once ruled by Sultan Moulay Ismail. Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the holy city of Moulay Idriss along the way. Arrive in Fez for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3: Fez – Guided Medina Tour

Explore Fez’s UNESCO-listed medina with a local guide. Discover its ancient mosques, madrasas, caravanserais, and artisan quarters renowned for their Andalusian style. Visit the tanneries and artisan workshops before enjoying free time in the afternoon. Overnight in Fez.

Day 4: Fez – Ifrane – Azrou – Ziz Valley – Erfoud – Desert

Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, visiting “Morocco’s Switzerland” Ifrane and the cedar forests near Azrou, home to wild Barbary macaques. Cross the Tizi Talghemt pass and enter the desert region near Erfoud. Arrive at the Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga for dinner and overnight in a kasbah.

Day 5: Merzouga – Desert Excursion

Visit desert nomads and an oasis featured in films such as Sahara. Ride camels into the dunes for a stunning sunset and spend the night in traditional Berber tents under the stars, enjoying local music and dinner.

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

Visit the bustling souk of Rissani, famous for its donkey market, then explore fossil quarries near Erfoud. Continue to the spectacular Todra Gorges and finish the day in the Dades Valley. Overnight in the valley.

Day 7: Dades Valley – Roses Valley – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Marrakech

Drive along the “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs” through the Valley of Roses and visit Ouarzazate’s film studios and Kasbah Taourirt. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, famous for its film appearances. Cross the Tizi Ntichka pass and arrive in Marrakech for overnight.

Day 8: Marrakech – City Tour

Discover Marrakech’s highlights: Menara Gardens, Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, Koutoubia Mosque, and the vibrant Jemaa El-Fnaa square. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 9: Marrakech – Free Day

Enjoy a free day to explore Marrakech at your own pace or relax.

Day 10: Marrakech – Essaouira

Travel to the coastal town of Essaouira via argan tree forests. Explore the old Portuguese fortifications, medina, and bustling souks. Overnight in Essaouira.

Day 11: Essaouira – El Jadida – Casablanca

Depart Essaouira for Casablanca, stopping in Oualidia and El Jadida to explore Portuguese ruins. Overnight in Casablanca.

Day 12: Casablanca – Rabat

Tour Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque and key city sites before traveling to Rabat, Morocco’s administrative capital. See the Royal Palace, Hassan Tower, and Mausoleum of Mohamed V. Overnight in Rabat.

Day 13: Rabat – Tangier

After breakfast, transfer to Tangier airport or port for your departure. End of your 13-day journey

Included

  • Depends on the tour: Private or shared air-conditioned vehicles (4×4, minivan, minibus)
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Multilingual driver/guide (English, French, Spanish)
  • Camel trekking (only in desert tours)
  • Hotel or traditional riad stays (3-star, 4-star, or luxury options)
  • Daily breakfast and dinners (depending on the type of accommodation you choose)

Excluded

  • Flights to/from Morocco
  • Lunches and drinks
  • Optional Activities & Extras
  • Tips & Gratuities
  • Personal Expenses

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