7 Days Tour from Tangier to Marrakech
This 7-day tour from Tangier to Marrakech offers an incredible journey through the heart of Morocco, from the Mediterranean coast to the vast Sahara Desert and ending in the vibrant city of Marrakech. You’ll explore the blue city of Chefchaouen, the imperial cities of Fes and Meknes, and enjoy a camel trek in the golden dunes of Merzouga. Along the way, you’ll visit historic kasbahs, breathtaking gorges, and the stunning Atlas Mountains. Let’s dive into the details of each day of this unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Tangier and Drive to Chefchaouen
Arrival in Tangier: Your tour begins with an arrival in Tangier, Morocco’s northernmost city located on the Mediterranean coast. After being greeted by your guide, you’ll depart for Chefchaouen, the enchanting blue city.
Drive to Chefchaouen: The drive takes you through the scenic Rif Mountains, with beautiful landscapes along the way. You’ll arrive in Chefchaouen in the early afternoon.
Explore Chefchaouen: Spend the rest of the day exploring Chefchaouen’s picturesque streets, famous for their vibrant blue buildings. Wander through the medina, visit the Kasbah Museum, and relax in the Outa el-Hammam Square. Overnight stay in a local riad or hotel.
Day 2: Chefchaouen to Fes via Meknes and Volubilis
Visit Meknes – The Imperial City: After breakfast, you’ll depart for Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. In Meknes, you’ll visit the grand Bab Mansour Gate, the Royal Stables, and El Hedim Square. Meknes is known for its historical charm and laid-back atmosphere.
Explore Volubilis – Roman Ruins: After exploring Meknes, you’ll visit the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These ancient ruins are some of the best-preserved in North Africa, offering a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s Roman past.
Arrival in Fes: In the late afternoon, 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 3: Full Day in Fes – Explore the Medina
Guided Tour of Fes: Spend a full day exploring the historic city of Fes, one of the world’s oldest and most intact medieval cities. Begin with a tour of the ancient medina, Fes El Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the narrow, winding streets, visit the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest continuously operating university in the world, and admire the stunning Bou Inania Madrasa.
Visit the Tannery: Next, you’ll visit the famous Chouara Tannery, where leather goods are made using traditional methods. The colorful dye pits are one of Fes’ most iconic sights.
Artisan Souks: In the afternoon, explore the vibrant souks of Fes, where artisans craft everything from pottery to metalwork. Return to your riad for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 4: Fes to Merzouga – Through the Middle Atlas Mountains
Middle Atlas Mountains: After breakfast, you’ll depart Fes and begin your journey to the Sahara Desert. The road takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains, where you’ll stop in the town of Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture and cool climate.
Azrou and Cedar Forests: Continue through Azrou and the nearby cedar forests, home to the playful Barbary apes. You can stop here for photos and a short walk.
Lunch in Midelt: Enjoy a lunch break 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 lush Ziz Valley, known for its expansive palm groves and dramatic landscapes, before arriving in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Camel Trek into the Sahara: In Merzouga, you’ll embark on a camel trek into the Sahara Desert, riding through the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi as the sun sets. The sight of the desert at sunset is a magical experience.
Night in a Desert Camp: Arrive at your Berber desert camp, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars, followed by Berber music around the campfire. You’ll sleep in a comfortable desert tent, experiencing the peacefulness of the Sahara.
Day 5: Merzouga to Dades Valley – Todra Gorge and Berber Villages
Sunrise in the Desert: 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 dramatic Todra Gorge, a canyon with towering rock walls that rise up to 300 meters. You’ll have time to explore the gorge, take a short walk along the river, and enjoy the natural beauty of this stunning location.
Dades Valley – Road of a Thousand Kasbahs: In the afternoon, you’ll continue through the Dades Valley, also known as the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs. This scenic route is lined with ancient fortresses and unique rock formations. You’ll spend the night in a guesthouse or hotel in the valley, enjoying dinner and the beautiful surroundings.
Day 6: Dades Valley to Marrakech – Kasbah Aït Benhaddou and High Atlas Mountains
Morning in Dades Valley: After breakfast, continue your journey through the beautiful Dades Valley before heading toward Marrakech.
Kasbah Aït Benhaddou – UNESCO World Heritage Site: Your next stop is the iconic Kasbah Aït Benhaddou, one of Morocco’s most famous fortified villages and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient ksar has been used as a filming location for numerous films, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Explore its narrow streets and climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Tizi n’Tichka Pass – High Atlas Mountains: In the afternoon, you’ll cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest road pass in North Africa. The drive offers spectacular views of the rugged mountains and traditional Berber villages.
Arrival in Marrakech: By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Marrakech, Morocco’s vibrant Red City. After checking into your hotel or riad, enjoy dinner and relax for the evening.
Day 7: Full Day in Marrakech – Explore the Red City
Guided Tour of Marrakech: Your final day will be spent exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech. Start with a visit to the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the heart of Marrakech, where you’ll find street performers, food stalls, snake charmers, and traditional markets.
Koutoubia Mosque and Saadian Tombs: Visit the stunning Koutoubia Mosque, with its towering minaret, and the Saadian Tombs, the final resting place of members of the Saadian dynasty.
Bahia Palace and Majorelle Garden: In the afternoon, explore the intricate Bahia Palace, with its beautiful Moroccan architecture, and visit the tranquil Majorelle Garden, a botanical garden created by French artist Jacques Majorelle and later owned by Yves Saint Laurent.
Souks and Artisan Markets: End your day by wandering through the vibrant souks, where you can shop for traditional Moroccan items like spices, textiles, pottery, and more. After a day of exploration, return to your hotel for your final night in Morocco.
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)
- 6 nights in hotels/riads (with dinner and breakfast)
- Guided tours in Fes and Marrakech
This 7-day tour from Tangier to Marrakech via Merzouga Desert offers a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation. From exploring the blue city of Chefchaouen to riding camels in the Sahara Desert and discovering the vibrant streets of Marrakech, this tour provides an unforgettable Moroccan experience. Ready for an adventure of a lifetime?