7 Days from Tangier To Marrakech Desert Tour

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day journey from Tangier to Marrakech, exploring the diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking desert vistas that Morocco has to offer. This comprehensive tour takes you from the bustling port city of Tangier, through the scenic Rif Mountains, and into the heart of the Sahara Desert, before ending in the vibrant city of Marrakech.

Day 1: Arrival in Tangier and Transfer to Chefchaouen

Welcome to Tangier

Your adventure begins in Tangier, a city steeped in history where Moroccan, European, and African cultures converge. Upon arrival at Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport, meet your guide and set off for the enchanting town of Chefchaouen.

Journey to Chefchaouen

Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is a picturesque town famous for its blue-washed buildings and serene atmosphere. The drive takes about two hours, offering stunning views of the mountainous landscape.

Key Highlights in Chefchaouen:

• Explore the Medina: Wander through the medina of Chefchaouen, where the walls and streets are painted in shades of blue. This unique setting offers endless photo opportunities and a peaceful environment.
• Plaza Uta el-Hammam: Relax in this central square, sipping Moroccan mint tea while taking in the lively atmosphere.
• Visit the Kasbah: Discover the Kasbah Museum and its beautiful gardens, providing insight into the town’s rich history.

Dinner and Overnight in Chefchaouen

End your day with a delicious Moroccan dinner, featuring traditional dishes like tagine and couscous, before retiring to your riad or hotel for a restful night.

Day 2: Chefchaouen to Fes

Morning in Chefchaouen

Start your morning with a traditional Moroccan breakfast before taking a final stroll through the quiet alleys of Chefchaouen. The morning light enhances the town’s unique blue tones, making it a perfect time for photos.

Drive to Fes

Depart Chefchaouen and head towards Fes, a journey of about four hours through the rolling hills of the Rif. Along the way, enjoy the changing scenery as you move from mountain landscapes to the plains surrounding Fes.

Arrival in Fes

Upon arrival in Fes, check into your accommodation and begin exploring the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

Key Highlights in Fes:

• Fes el-Bali (Old Medina): Explore the labyrinthine streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with vibrant souks (markets), ancient mosques, and stunning examples of Andalusian and Moorish architecture.
• Al Quaraouiyine University: Visit the exterior of the world’s oldest university, a significant center of learning in the Islamic world.
• Chouara Tannery: Witness the traditional process of leather dyeing at the Chouara Tannery, a practice that dates back centuries.

Dinner and Overnight in Fes

Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at a local restaurant before resting in your riad, preparing for the adventures to come.

Day 3: Fes to Merzouga (Sahara Desert)

Drive Through the Middle Atlas Mountains

Begin your journey towards the Sahara Desert with a scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Pass through charming Berber villages like Ifrane (known as the “Switzerland of Morocco”) and Azrou, where you can see cedar forests and even spot Barbary apes.

Arrival in Merzouga and Camel Trekking

Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi Dunes. Here, you will embark on a camel trek through the golden sand dunes, guided by experienced camel handlers. As the sun sets over the desert, enjoy the breathtaking views and capture stunning photos.

Overnight in a Desert Camp

Spend the night in a traditional Berber camp beneath a sky full of stars. Enjoy a Moroccan dinner around the campfire, accompanied by traditional Berber music and storytelling.

Day 4: Merzouga to Todra Gorges and Dades Valley

Sunrise in the Sahara

Wake up early to witness the sunrise over the dunes—a truly magical experience. After breakfast, return to Merzouga by camel or 4×4 and begin your journey to Todra Gorges.

Explore Todra Gorges

The Todra Gorges feature towering limestone cliffs that reach heights of over 300 meters. Take a leisurely walk through the gorge, admiring the dramatic scenery and the cool waters of the Todra River.

Continue to Dades Valley

Drive through the picturesque Dades Valley, also known as the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, where you will see stunning rock formations and traditional Berber villages.

Dinner and Overnight in Dades Valley

Enjoy dinner at a local guesthouse in the Dades Valley, surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes.

Day 5: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou

Drive Through the Road of 1,000 Kasbahs

Depart Dades Valley and travel along the Road of 1,000 Kasbahs, a route known for its numerous ancient fortresses and stunning desert landscapes.

Visit Ouarzazate – The Gateway to the Sahara

Stop in Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco” due to its film studios where famous movies like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia were shot.

Key Highlights:

• Atlas Film Studios: Tour the Atlas Film Studios and see sets used in iconic films.
• Kasbah Taourirt: Explore this historical kasbah, once a residence of the powerful Glaoui family.

Visit Ait Benhaddou

Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, a stunning ksar (fortified village) that has served as a backdrop for many films. Wander through the ancient streets and take in the panoramic views from the top.

Dinner and Overnight in Ait Benhaddou

Enjoy dinner with a view of Ait Benhaddou before resting in a nearby guesthouse.

Day 6: Ait Benhaddou to Marrakech via the High Atlas Mountains

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains

After breakfast, begin the journey to Marrakech via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass. The route offers breathtaking views of the High Atlas Mountains and traditional Berber villages clinging to the mountainsides.

Arrival in Marrakech

Upon arrival in Marrakech, check into your hotel and begin to explore the vibrant Red City.

Key Highlights:

• Jemaa el-Fnaa: Visit the bustling main square, where you will encounter snake charmers, musicians, and street food vendors.
• Koutoubia Mosque: Admire the stunning architecture of Marrakech’s largest mosque.
• Marrakech Souks: Wander through the lively markets, where you can shop for Moroccan spices, handicrafts, and textiles.

Dinner and Overnight in Marrakech

Enjoy a traditional dinner at a riad in the heart of the medina, ending the day with the vibrant energy of Marrakech.

Day 7: Exploring Marrakech and Departure

Full Day Exploring Marrakech

Spend your final day discovering the sights of Marrakech.

Key Highlights:

• Majorelle Garden: Visit this beautiful garden, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, with its striking cobalt-blue buildings and exotic plants.
• Saadian Tombs: Explore these impressive royal tombs dating back to the 16th century.
• Bahia Palace: Wander through the stunning rooms and courtyards of this ornate palace, a testament to Moroccan craftsmanship.

Departure from Marrakech

Transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure, taking with you memories of Morocco’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and welcoming culture.

This 7-day tour from Tangier to Marrakech offers a perfect blend of Morocco’s vibrant cities, breathtaking desert landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. From the blue streets of Chefchaouen to the majestic dunes of Merzouga and the charm of Marrakech, this itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Morocco.