11 Days Desert Tour From Tanger to Casablanca

Day 1: Tangier – Chefchaouen

Upon arrival at Tangier’s port or airport, our representative will greet you—a hallmark of our personalized service. The journey commences toward Chefchaouen, with a pause in Tetouan, affectionately known as the “City of Spain” due to its history as the Spanish protectorate’s capital. Upon reaching Chefchaouen, settle into your charming riad accommodation. The remainder of the day invites leisurely exploration of the town’s picturesque lanes, where historic blue-and-white dwellings cascade down the hillside, offering stunning panoramic vistas. Overnight with breakfast at your riad.

Day 2: Chefchaouen – Volubilis Ruins – Meknes – Fez

Depart for Fez, skirting the Rif Forest until the Roman ruins of Volubilis emerge on the horizon. An optional local guide can illuminate the stories behind these ancient stones. Continue to Meknes, which flourished under Sultan Moulay Ismail’s rule—visit the monumental Bab Mansour gate and the royal mausoleum. The day culminates in Fez, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart, where you’ll check into your riad for the evening.

Day 3: Fez – Full Day Guided City Tour

Following breakfast, immerse yourself in a comprehensive exploration of Fez—the kingdom’s intellectual soul. Your guide will navigate you through a labyrinth of history, visiting the exquisite Medersas (Koranic schools) including Bou Inania and Al-Attarine, the vibrant souks of Fes el-Jdid, and the Karaouine Mosque, recognized as the world’s oldest university. Time for personal discovery before retiring to your riad.

Day 4: Fez – Ifrane – Azrou & Monkey Forest – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert

The journey traverses the Middle Atlas Mountains, with a stop in Ifrane—dubbed “Africa’s Switzerland” for its Alpine-style architecture with gabled roofs. Continue through Azrou, winding through a national park celebrated for its ancient cedar forests inhabited by playful Barbary macaques. The route descends to the Ziz Valley, renowned for its fossil-rich terrain. Arriving at the desert’s edge, transfer to a 4×4 vehicle for an exhilarating two-hour dune crossing to your desert camp. Here, Berber hosts welcome you with traditional mint tea beneath the vast Sahara sky. Spend the night in a nomad tent, surrounded by an ocean of stars.

Day 5: Merzouga – Nomad Visit – Erg Chebbi Desert

Greet the dawn over the dunes—a spectacle that defines the desert experience. After breakfast, return to Merzouga for a refreshing shower, then venture to Khamlia, the village of the “Black People”—descendants of Sudanese slaves who have transformed music into their life’s passion. Enjoy an intimate Gnawa music performance. Journey onward by 4×4 along a former Paris-Dakar Rally route, passing abandoned mines and the vestiges of French and Berber settlements. From a panoramic viewpoint, absorb the vast expanse of Erg Chebbi’s sandy wilderness. Visit sedentary desert nomads, sharing tea and insights into their enduring way of life. Return to your desert hotel for a free afternoon and evening.

Day 6: Merzouga – Erfoud – Todra Gorges – Ouarzazate

Begin with a camel ride back to your accommodation before setting out for Rissani, home to one of southern Morocco’s most authentic and uncrowded souks—where donkeys and nomads converge. Continue to the dramatic Todra Gorge, whose towering cliffs attract climbers worldwide. The route then winds through the Dades Gorges, connecting to the Valley of Roses and the famed Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs. Arrive in Ouarzazate—known as “Morocco’s Hollywood”—to explore Taourirt Kasbah; film enthusiasts may opt to visit the local studio. Overnight in a comfortable riad.

Day 7: Ouarzazate – Ait Benhaddou – Telouet – Marrakech

After breakfast, journey to the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou—a cinematic icon featured in Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and Game of Thrones. Continue via the Tichka Pass into Marrakech, the legendary “Red City.” Upon arrival, transfer to your riad for a free afternoon and evening to begin acquainting yourself with this mesmerizing city.

Day 8: Marrakech – Full Day City Tour

Following breakfast, embark on a guided exploration of Marrakech’s treasures: the intricate Ben Youssef Madrasa, the opulent Bahia Palace, the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the Saadian Tombs, and the iconic Koutoubia Mosque. The afternoon and evening remain at leisure in your riad.

Day 9: Marrakech – Essaouira

Collect your private vehicle at the designated time and set off toward the Atlantic coast and the historic port city of Essaouira (formerly Mogador). En route, pass through vast argan forests—visit a cooperative to witness the traditional extraction of precious argan oil. Discover Essaouira, a Portuguese fortress brimming with history behind its ramparts. Choose from an array of activities: horseback or camel rides along the beach, quad biking, kite-surfing, windsurfing, or simply strolling along the ocean to the coastal dunes. The port offers exquisite fresh seafood, a true culinary highlight. Overnight in a lovely riad.

Day 10: Essaouira – El Jadida – Casablanca

After breakfast, trace Morocco’s Atlantic coastline northward, stopping in El Jadida to explore the fascinating Portuguese cistern. Proceed to Casablanca, where you’ll check in for the night.

Day 11: Casablanca – Departure

Enjoy breakfast before spending the morning at leisure. At the appointed time, transfer to Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport for your departure flight, marking the conclusion of your Moroccan adventure and our services.

• Transportation: Private, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver/guide.
• Accommodation: 12 nights’ accommodation (1 night in Chefchaouen, 2 nights in Fes, 3 nights in Marrakech, 1 night in Essaouira, 2 nights in a desert camp,1 night in Csablanca, 1 night in Rabat, 1 night in Dades Valley).
• Desert Experience: Camel trek to a desert camp (one camel per person) and overnight stay with dinner and breakfast included.
• Meals: 2 breakfast in Fes, 2 breakfast, 2 dinner (at the desert camp), 1 breakfast in Chefchaouen, 1 breakfast and 1 dinner in Dades Valley, 2 breakfast in Marrakech.
• Sightseeing: Scenic stops and photo opportunities along the route.
• Logistics: Pick-up from your accommodation in Tanger and drop-off at your accommodation in Tanger.

• Lunches & Dinners: Meals not explicitly mentioned (lunches), Dinners in big cities.
• Drinks: All beverages throughout the tour.
• Entrance Fees: Tickets to any sites or attractions.
• Tips: For your driver/guide, camel handlers, and camp staff.
• Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, optional activities, or any services not mentioned.

What can you tell me about the accommodations?

You’ll stay in hand-picked, authentic Moroccan properties—from cozy riads and comfortable hotels to a luxury desert camp in Merzouga featuring private tents and en-suite modern bathrooms. Each choice balances genuine local hospitality with top-tier comfort.

Are the tours private or shared?

We provide both formats to match your travel preferences. Private tours offer an exclusive, customized schedule completely tailored to your group, whereas shared tours provide a budget-friendly atmosphere ideal for connecting with fellow adventurers. Just share your preference when you book!

How much time will I spend on the camel?

The camel ride usually lasts from 60 to 90 minutes. It is the ideal length to take in the stunning desert views and arrive at the camp right as the sun begins to set over the dunes.

 Can the itinerary be tailored to my needs?

Absolutely, we love helping you design your dream vacation. Whether you want to extend your stay in a particular destination, include special activities, or adjust the route entirely, just let us know your ideas before securing your reservation.

What is the transportation like throughout the trip? 

You will ride in a well-kept, air-conditioned vehicle guided by an expert professional driver, with plenty of planned pauses to stretch or take photos. For the final leg into the desert, you’ll switch over to robust 4x4s and traditional camels.