8 days desert tour from Tangier
Duration
8 days
Tour Type
Overview
8 days desert tour from Tangier
Embark on an unforgettable 8 days desert tour from Tangier that takes you through some of Morocco’s most captivating destinations. Begin your journey in the vibrant coastal city of Tangier, before traveling to the blue-washed town of Chefchaouen nestled in the Rif Mountains. From there, explore the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial cities of Meknes and Fes, known for their rich history and bustling medinas. Dive deep into Morocco’s culture with a guided tour of Fes, one of the country’s most significant spiritual and cultural centers.
As the adventure continues, head south through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains and Ziz Valley to reach the breathtaking Sahara Desert. Here, experience the magic of the desert on a camel trek through the golden dunes of Merzouga. Enjoy a night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp, surrounded by the vast expanse of the desert. The tour also takes you to the impressive Todra Gorge and the lush Dades Valley, offering dramatic landscapes along the way.
Cross the High Atlas Mountains to reach the captivating city of Marrakech, where you’ll explore its iconic landmarks and lively souks. This 8 days desert tour from Tangier offers a perfect blend of Morocco’s natural wonders, historical treasures, and cultural experiences, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an immersive Moroccan adventure.
Included/Exclude
- Transportation (air-conditioned vehicle)
- Pick up and Drop off hotel/riad
- Professional driver
- Fuel
- Camel Trekking in the desert
- 1 Night in the desert (Nomads Tent)
- Entrance fees to historical sites
- Lunch and drinks
- Any Private Expenses
Tour Plan
Your exciting 8-day desert tour from Tangier takes you on a scenic drive to Chefchaouen, one of the most beautiful towns in Morocco. Situated within the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is endowed with unique blue-washed buildings and a tranquil atmosphere. You arrive and are greeted with grandeur by the amazing views of the mountain landscape before taking a stroll through narrow, winding streets in the old medina. This small city is a dream to any photographer, with every corner displaying some charming alleys full of vibrancy in local life.
Afternoon relaxed exploration to Chefchaouen's highlights: Plaza Uta el-Hammam is a great place where you will be able to inhale the local culture over traditional Moroccan mint tea. Visit the 15th-century Kasbah and its beautiful Andalusian gardens. Stay overnight in a local riad for the night to prepare for the next day.
On early morning breakfast in Chefchaouen, take the route to the ancient Roman city of Volubilis. This UNESCO World Heritage site has remarkably well-preserved ruins that give insight into Morocco's Roman past-magnificent mosaics, monumental arches, and remnants of ancient temples. Visit Volubilis before proceeding further to Meknes, another imperial city of Morocco. The city is especially famous for its historical monuments like Bab Mansour and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.
After lunch, you will be heading in the direction of Fes. You'll arrive in time to check into your riad. Filled with cultural and spiritual highlights, make time this evening to enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal of your choice and independently embrace the energy of the medina in advance of tomorrow's guided tour.
Today, the magic of Fes is to be discovered with the help of a guide: one of the oldest and most dynamic cities in Morocco, it boasts the oldest university in the world, Al Quaraouiyine. Today, the explorations start at the gates of the Royal Palace, the historic Jewish quarter of the Mellah, and then embrace panoramic views of the city. Later, a plunge into the Labyrinthine Medina, one of UNESCO's World Heritage sites.
While walking through bustling streets, you'll come across old markets, artisans, and major landmarks such as the Al-Attarine Madrasa and the famous tanneries. Take your time this afternoon to revel in the rich history and culture of Fes, then head back to your riad to unwind this evening, mulling over today's discoveries.
Leaving Fes after breakfast, you travel into the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains. You begin with a stop in Ifrane, called by many the "Switzerland of Morocco," because of its European-style chalet architecture and alpine climate. Continue through the cedar forests, stopping to see the friendly Barbary macaques along the way, marveling at the change in scenery as you descend into the Ziz Valley with its palm groves and stunning scenery.
Arrive in Merzouga, where the vast Sahara Desert dunes await. Later on, enjoy a thrilling camel trek through golden sand into a luxury desert camp. Enjoy its magic: an enchanting sunset and evening under the stars to the rhythms of traditional Berber music.
Start the day by contemplating the fantastic sunrise over the Sahara dunes, then having breakfast at the camp. You will have more time today to learn about desert life. Visit the village of Khamlia, famous for its Gnaoua music, and meet with some nomadic families, learning about this style of life so different from any other. Later, take a deeper exploration of the desert scenery: the black volcanic rock, the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes.
Head back to your camp in the afternoon for some relaxation time or take part in optional activities like sandboarding. After dinner, which will also be typically Moroccan, relax around the camp and listen to local stories and music before retiring into your tent.
Leave Merzouga after breakfast and drive to the ancient trade caravans starting point across the Sahara, the town of Rissani. Visit the local market and the historic ksars up to the dramatic Todra Gorge. The towering rock walls of the gorge make it popular with rock climbers, and you'll have some time to walk through the narrow canyon, taking in its breathtaking beauty.
After lunch, drive towards Dades Valley, which is green, fertile, and full of magnificent rock formations. Among those, the famous "Monkey Fingers" are to be found. Overnight in a guesthouse equipped with all amenities in the heart of the valley.
Having finished breakfast, set off early for Ouarzazate. The city is a backup to some well-known films and has been nicknamed the "Hollywood of Morocco". Make a stop en-route in the Rose Valley, which is a beautiful valley and also well known for its Rose Festival, where rosewater and other rose-scented products are manufactured. Later, visit the Atlas Film Studios, where films such as "Gladiator" and "The Mummy" were shot.
Pay a visit to the highly popular Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved fortified villages in Morocco. Later, cross over the High Atlas Mountains via the pass of Tizi n'Tichka until reaching Marrakech. Check into your riad. The rest of the day is at leisure, with dinner on your own.
Conclude your 8-day desert tour from Tangier with a full-day, guided tour of Marrakech. Your day starts with an early visit to Koutoubia Mosque, the biggest mosque in Marrakech, followed by a fascinating tour through Bahia Palace and the ancient Saadian Tombs. Take a walk around the lively souks where you have the opportunity to shop for handicrafts and spices before visiting the bustling square of Jemaa el-Fnaa.
After lunch, visit the tranquil oasis that forms the Majorelle Garden, set out by French artist Jacques Majorelle and later owned by Yves Saint Laurent. Your tour comes to a close in Marrakech, yet your vivid impressions of Morocco will stay with you forever.
