8 days from Tangier to the desert, ending in Marrakech

Day 1: Arrival in Tangier – Panoramic Tour – Chefchaouen

Our journey commences in Tangier, the vibrant coastal city that bridges Africa and Europe. After a brief exploration of landmarks such as the Kasbah, the Grand Souk, and Cape Spartel, we set course towards the Rif Mountains.

Our next destination is Chefchaouen, the enchanting Blue City. We wander through its magical alleys, visit Uta el-Hammam Square, the Kasbah, and conclude the day with a panoramic view from the lookout at the Spanish Mosque. Dinner and overnight stay in a traditional riad.

Day 2: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fez

Following breakfast, we journey southward to explore the magnificent Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient mosaics and towering columns.

Next, we arrive in Meknes, the former imperial capital, where we discover the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the splendid Bab Mansour gate, and the bustling medina.

Finally, we proceed to Fez, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart. Dinner and accommodation await in a charming riad nestled in the heart of the medina.

Day 3: Fez – Guided City Tour

We dedicate the day to immersing ourselves in Fez el-Bali, the oldest and most authentic medina in the country. Accompanied by a local guide, we visit the Al Quaraouiyine University, the traditional tanneries, the Bou Inania Madrasa, and the artisan souks where centuries-old leather, metal, and ceramic crafts thrive.

After lunch in a typical restaurant, we continue exploring the medina and the modern city. A second night in Fez.

Day 4: Fez – Ifrane – Azrou Forest – Ziz Valley – Merzouga

We depart early, crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains, with our first stop in Ifrane, dubbed the “Moroccan Switzerland” for its European-style architecture and pristine parks.

We then journey onward to the Azrou Forest, home to the playful Barbary macaques, before continuing through the Ziz Valley—an expansive oasis dotted with palm groves and adobe kasbahs.

At sunset, we arrive at the magical desert of Merzouga, gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel or riad overlooking the dunes.

Day 5: Merzouga – Desert Adventure – Night in a Camp

Today offers a full immersion in the Sahara Desert experience. We begin with a 4×4 excursion across the dunes, visiting nomadic villages, fossil mines, and the village of Khamlia, where we delight in traditional Gnawa music.

In the afternoon, we embark on a captivating camel trek at sunset, crossing the dunes to reach our Berber camp deep within the desert.

Dinner under the stars, drumming by the fire, and a night spent in a traditional or luxury haima, according to preference.

Day 6: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

After witnessing the sunrise over the dunes and enjoying breakfast at the camp, we return to Merzouga and set out for the spectacular Todra Gorges, a natural canyon with towering rock walls reaching up to 300 meters—ideal for hiking and photography.

We proceed to the Dades Valley, a landscape of breathtaking rock formations and traditional kasbahs. Dinner and overnight stay in a charming hotel amid the valley.

Day 7: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas – Marrakech

After breakfast, we travel to Ouarzazate to visit the Taourirt Kasbah and, optionally, the renowned Atlas Film Studios.

Next, we explore the southern jewel: the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the backdrop of films such as Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones.

In the afternoon, we cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass (2,260 m) before arriving in Marrakech, where we rest in a traditional riad.

Day 8: Marrakech – Guided Tour and Conclusion of the Journey

The final day is devoted to uncovering the treasures of Marrakech, the Red City. We visit the Menara Gardens, Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and lose ourselves in the vibrant medina.

The tour culminates in the iconic Jemaa el-Fna Square, alive with food stalls, musicians, and storytellers. End of the tour with transfer to the airport, station, or accommodation according to your preference.

Itinerary Summary

• Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
• Start: Tangier
• End: Marrakech

Highlights: Chefchaouen, Volubilis, Fez, Merzouga, Todra, Dades, Ait Ben Haddou, Marrakech

Included Activities:

• Camel trek
• overnight desert camp
• local guides in Fez and Marrakech
• private transportation
• authentic accommodations, and desert dinners.

Why Choose This 8-Day Route from Tangier to Marrakech via the Sahara?

• This itinerary masterfully blends the finest experiences of northern and southern Morocco in one seamless journey.
• It allows you to savor everything from the Blue City’s charm to the vast Sahara dunes.
• Ideal for travelers arriving by ferry or plane to Tangier.
• Includes nights in authentic riads and traditional desert haimas.
• Offers an immersive encounter with Moroccan culture, history, cuisine, and landscapes.