13 Days Desert Tour From Tanger to Tanger

Day 1: Tangier – Chefchaouen

Your journey begins as your personal guide greets you at the port or airport of Tangier to drive straight toward Chefchaouen. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, this striking destination is famously known as the “blue town” (derived from the Berber word for “horns”). Spend your time wandering leisurely through its picturesque streets, marveling at the unique contrast of crisp white houses against deep blue doors and windows, framed by the lush greenery of the Lau River valley. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 2: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fez

After breakfast, you will depart for Meknes, skirting the scenic Maamora forest. Arrive in Meknes, a magnificent imperial city that reached its golden age under Sultan Moulay Ismail. Just 27 km away, you will explore the impressive ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis and visit the nearby holy town of Moulay Idriss. Afterward, you will continue your journey toward Fez, where you will check into your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 3: Fez World Heritage Tour

Begin your morning with a guided exploration of Morocco’s oldest imperial city, founded in 808 AD as the nation’s premier political, religious, and cultural hub. Start at the ornate Golden Gates of the Royal Palace before taking in a sweeping panoramic view of the massive walls enclosing the ancient medina. Afterward, step inside on foot to experience a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and history. Explore historic mosques, ancient madrasas, traditional caravanserais, and the famous tanners’ quarter. Following free time for lunch, you will visit the artisans’ neighborhood—where craftsmen preserve centuries-old Andalusian techniques, earning Fez its title as the city of artisans—before enjoying a free afternoon, dinner, and an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 4: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Monkey Forest – Ziz Valley – Erfoud – Desert

Departing Fez after breakfast, you will drive south toward the majestic dunes of Merzouga. Journey into the Middle Atlas mountains, making your first stop in Ifrane, widely known as the “Switzerland of Africa” due to its alpine architecture. Next, visit the nearby town of Azrou (“the rock”) and stop in its rich cedar forest to observe wild Barbary macaques. Continue across the dramatic, high-altitude Tizi Talghemt pass (1,907 meters) with its sweeping, purple-hued mountain landscapes. Pass through Errachidia and the Tafilalet massif, traversing the Erfoud palm grove before driving off-road to reach the iconic sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. Arrive in time to watch the dunes shift colors in the evening light, followed by dinner and an overnight stay in a desert Kasbah.

Day 5: Exploring Merzouga and Erg Chebbi

Following breakfast, your day begins with an off-road adventure along tracks formerly used in the Paris-Dakar Rally. Visit local nomadic families in their tents to share a cup of tea, and explore an oasis location featured in films like Sahara starring Penélope Cruz. Continue to the historic village of Khamlia (historically known as the town of “the blacks,” referencing historical trade connections with Sudan) to experience soulful Gnaoua music. After lunch, transition from a 4×4 vehicle to animal traction: a scenic camel trek across the dunes to watch an unforgettable desert sunset. Spend a magical night sleeping beneath a starry sky in traditional Berber nomadic tents (Khaimas), complete with a festive Berber dinner and traditional music.

Day 6: Merzouga – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

After a peaceful morning and breakfast, you will leave the desert camp to visit the bustling town of Rissani and its famous livestock market, a unique gathering point where regional desert nomads and tribes supply their goods. Next, head to Erfoud to tour fossil quarries containing marine remnants dating back over 380 million years. Continue your journey to the dramatic Todra Gorges, a world-renowned haven for rock climbers and trekkers, before finishing your day in the stunning Dades Valley for dinner and an overnight hotel stay.

Day 7: Dades Valley – Valley of the Roses – Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Marrakech

Departing the Dades Valley along the scenic “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs,” you will pass through the fragrant Valley of the Roses, where locals produce natural rosewater, soaps, and creams. Journey onward to Ouarzazate and explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou—a breathtaking backdrop for blockbuster films like Gladiator, Asterix & Obelix, and Sahara. Afterward, traverse the High Atlas Mountains via the dramatic Tizi Ntichka pass (2,260m altitude) before arriving in Marrakech for your hotel check-in.

Day 8: Marrakech City Tour

Dedicate your day to discovering the vibrant red city of Marrakech with a guided tour. Explore the serene Menara Gardens and its large reflecting pool, the historic Saadian Tombs (resting place of the city’s founders), the magnificent Bahia Palace, and the soaring minaret of the Koutubia Mosque. Conclude your tour at the legendary Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, a bustling open-air theater of vibrant souks by day and a magical cultural spectacle by night. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 9: Marrakech Free Day

Enjoy a completely relaxed day at your own pace. Take a well-deserved break, sleep in, or take a leisurely stroll around Marrakech to explore hidden alleyways, cafes, and local markets independently. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 10: Marrakech – Essaouira

After breakfast, drive toward the Atlantic coast along a scenic road lined with native argan trees. Arrive in the coastal city of Essaouira, famous for its well-preserved 18th-century Portuguese fortifications and relaxed maritime atmosphere. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the charming white-and-blue medina, the bustling port, and the local crafts souks. Hotel accommodation.

Day 11: Essaouira – El Jadida – Casablanca

Following breakfast, depart northward along the Atlantic coastline toward Casablanca, with a relaxing stop in the coastal town of Oualidia. Continue to El Jadida to explore its historic Portuguese fortifications and coastal ramparts (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Afterward, proceed directly to Casablanca for your evening arrival and hotel accommodation.

Day 12: Casablanca – Rabat

Begin your morning by visiting Casablanca’s architectural masterpiece, the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, followed by iconic city landmarks including the Boulevard de la Corniche, the Park of the Nations, and Mohammed V Square. Later, travel north to Rabat, the administrative capital of Morocco. Enjoy a panoramic tour of the city, viewing the exterior of the Royal Palace and its manicured gardens, the historic Hassan Tower, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Hotel accommodation.

Day 13: Rabat – Tangier

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before your scheduled private transfer to the airport or port of Tangier, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable 13-day Moroccan adventure.

• 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.