10 Days Tour from Tangier
Explore the Best of Morocco
This 10-day tour from Tangier offers a deep dive into Morocco’s rich culture, vibrant history, and breathtaking landscapes. Starting from the northern coastal city of Tangier, you’ll journey through the scenic Rif Mountains, the blue city of Chefchaouen, imperial cities like Fes and Meknes, the majestic Sahara Desert, and the bustling souks of Marrakech. Along the way, you’ll visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, explore ancient medinas, and experience the magic of camel trekking in the desert. Let’s explore each day of this exciting adventure!
Day 1: Arrival in Tangier – Explore the City
Arrival in Tangier: Upon arrival in Tangier, a city where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, you’ll begin exploring this historic port city.
Explore Tangier: Start with a visit to the Kasbah Museum, located in the former Sultan’s palace, which offers insight into the city’s fascinating history. Wander through the medina’s narrow streets and visit the Grand Socco, a lively square where you can find cafes, shops, and street vendors.
Cap Spartel and Hercules Cave: Later, you’ll drive to Cap Spartel, the northwestern tip of Africa, where the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet. You’ll also visit the Hercules Cave, an ancient cave with fascinating myths tied to the Greek hero Hercules. Dinner and overnight stay in Tangier.
Day 2: Tangier to Chefchaouen – The Blue City
Drive to Chefchaouen: After breakfast, you’ll depart Tangier and head south toward Chefchaouen, the famous “blue city” nestled in the Rif Mountains. The scenic drive takes you through beautiful mountain landscapes.
Explore Chefchaouen: Upon arrival, you’ll have the afternoon to explore Chefchaouen, known for its stunning blue-washed buildings. Wander through the medina, visit the Kasbah Museum, and relax in the Outa el-Hammam Square. Chefchaouen’s laid-back atmosphere and stunning blue hues make it one of Morocco’s most photogenic destinations. Overnight stay in a local riad.
Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fes via Volubilis and Meknes
Volubilis – Roman Ruins: After breakfast, you’ll depart for the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Volubilis is one of the best-preserved Roman archaeological sites in North Africa, showcasing beautiful mosaics, columns, and arches.
Visit Meknes – The Imperial City: Next, you’ll visit the imperial city of Meknes, where you’ll explore the grand Bab Mansour Gate, the Royal Stables, and El Hedim Square. Meknes is known for its historical charm and laid-back vibe.
Arrival in Fes: In the evening, you’ll arrive in Fes, the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco. After checking into your riad, enjoy dinner and relax for the evening.
Day 4: Full Day in Fes – Explore the Ancient Medina
Guided Tour of Fes: Spend the day exploring Fes El Bali, the ancient medina and UNESCO World Heritage site. Your guide will take you through the labyrinth of narrow streets filled with vibrant souks, mosques, and madrasas (Islamic schools).
Al Quaraouiyine University: Visit the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest continuously operating university in the world, and see the beautiful Bou Inania Madrasa.
Chouara Tannery: Stop by the famous Chouara Tannery, where traditional leather goods are made. From the terraces overlooking the dye pits, you’ll get a fantastic view of the workers crafting leather products using centuries-old techniques.
Artisan Workshops: In the afternoon, explore Fes’ artisan workshops, where craftsmen create pottery, ceramics, and intricate woodwork. Return to your riad for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Fes to Merzouga – Through the Middle Atlas Mountains
Middle Atlas Mountains: After breakfast, you’ll depart Fes and journey toward the Sahara Desert. You’ll pass through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in the charming town of Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture and clean streets.
Azrou and Cedar Forests: Continue through Azrou, where you’ll visit the cedar forests, home to the playful Barbary apes. Enjoy a short break to stretch your legs and take photos.
Lunch in Midelt: Stop for lunch in Midelt, a town located between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains.
Ziz Valley and Arrival in Merzouga: In the afternoon, you’ll drive through the scenic Ziz Valley, famous for its lush palm groves and dramatic rock formations. Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes, in the late afternoon.
Camel Trek into the Desert: In Merzouga, you’ll set off on a camel trek into the Sahara Desert, riding through the vast golden dunes as the sun sets. The sight of the desert at sunset is truly magical.
Night in a Desert Camp: Arrive at your Berber desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars. Spend the night in a comfortable desert tent, listening to Berber music around the campfire.
Day 6: Merzouga to Dades Valley – Todra Gorge and Berber Villages
Sunrise Over the Dunes: Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara Desert. After breakfast, you’ll ride your camel back to Merzouga village, where your driver will be waiting.
Todra Gorge: Your next stop is the stunning Todra Gorge, a canyon with towering rock walls that rise up to 300 meters. You’ll have time to explore the gorge and enjoy a short walk along the river.
Dades Valley – The Road of a Thousand Kasbahs: In the afternoon, drive through the Dades Valley, also known as the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs. This scenic route is dotted with ancient fortresses and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Spend the night in a guesthouse or hotel in the valley, enjoying dinner and the beautiful surroundings.
Day 7: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou
Dades Valley Exploration: After breakfast, take some time to explore the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Valley, famous for its unique rock formations and ancient kasbahs.
Skoura Oasis: On the way to Ouarzazate, you’ll pass through the beautiful Skoura Oasis, a lush valley filled with palm trees and old kasbahs. You can stop to explore these historic fortresses.
Kasbah Aït Benhaddou – UNESCO World Heritage Site: Next, visit the iconic Kasbah Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most famous fortified villages. This ancient ksar has been used as a backdrop for numerous films, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Spend time exploring its winding streets and climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Night in Ouarzazate: Arrive in Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Desert.” You’ll spend the night in a hotel, with dinner provided.
Day 8: Ouarzazate to Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains
Taourirt Kasbah: In the morning, visit the impressive Taourirt Kasbah, one of Morocco’s most important historical sites. Afterward, you’ll begin the scenic drive to Marrakech.
Tizi n’Tichka Pass: Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, one of the highest road passes in North Africa. The winding road offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys below.
Arrival in Marrakech: Arrive in Marrakech by late afternoon. After checking into your hotel or riad, enjoy dinner and relax for the evening.
Day 9: Full Day in Marrakech – The Red City
Explore Marrakech: Spend the day exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech. Start with a visit to the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where you’ll find street performers, snake charmers, food stalls, and artisan markets.
Koutoubia Mosque and Saadian Tombs: Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech, and explore the Saadian Tombs, a beautifully restored burial site from the Saadian dynasty.
Bahia Palace and Majorelle Garden: In the afternoon, visit the Bahia Palace, known for its intricate Moroccan architecture, and the peaceful Majorelle Garden, a botanical garden designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle.
Explore the Souks: End your day by wandering through the bustling souks, where you can shop for traditional Moroccan crafts, spices, and textiles. Return to your riad for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 10: Departure from Marrakech
Final Morning in Marrakech: Enjoy breakfast and some free time to explore more of Marrakech or shop for souvenirs before your transfer to the airport.
Departure: Your 10-day tour concludes as you’re transferred to the airport for your departure, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your Moroccan adventure.
What’s Included:
- Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- English-speaking driver/guide
- Camel trekking in Merzouga
- 1 night in a desert camp (with dinner and breakfast)
- 8 nights in hotels/riads (with dinner and breakfast)
- Guided tours in Fes and Marrakech
This 10-day tour from Tangier offers an unforgettable journey through Morocco’s most iconic destinations. From the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen to the vast Sahara Desert, the imperial cities of Fes and Marrakech, and the towering Atlas Mountains, this tour provides the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Ready to explore Morocco?