5-Day Moroccan Odyssey: Desert Tour from Tangier

Tangier to Marrakech: 5-Day Moroccan Desert Tour

Discover Morocco’s treasures on a 5-day desert tour from Tangier to Marrakech. Traverse captivating landscapes, from the blue city of Chefchaouen to the ancient Volubilis ruins. Immerse yourself in Meknes’ grandeur, experience the Sahara’s magic, and explore Todra and Dades gorges. Encounter historic Kasbahs and cross the High Atlas Mountains on this unforgettable journey

Day 1: Arrival in Tangier – Chefchaouen

Your 5-day Moroccan desert tour begins as we pick you up from your accommodation, the airport, or the port in Tangier. Known as “the bride of the north,” Tangier is nestled where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean at Cape Spartel. We’ll start by exploring the city, visiting the stunning Cape Spartel, and exploring the Hercules Cave.

After a break for lunch, we’ll journey inland to Chefchaouen, passing through Tetouan and the Rif Mountains with stops for panoramic views. Spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Chefchaouen.

Day 2: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

After breakfast, you’ll have free time to explore the charming blue alleyways of Chefchaouen. Your 5-day desert tour continues with a visit to the well-preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander among beautiful mosaics, ancient pillars, and archways.

We’ll then drive 30 km to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities. Here, you’ll visit Bab Al-Mansour, Sahrij Souani Basin, the Royal Stables, the Granary, and the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum. Finally, we’ll head to Fes, where you’ll spend the night in a traditional riad.

Day 3: Fes – Ifrane – Cedars Forest – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Sahara

Start the day with breakfast before embarking on a southbound journey. Our first stop is Ifrane, famous for its low temperatures, snow, and alpine-style architecture. It’s often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco”.

We’ll continue to the cedar forest, home to Barbary macaques. Feel free to interact with these fascinating creatures as you explore the forest. Later, we continue to Midelt, where you’ll have free time for lunch. As we drive through the Tizi-n-Tilghmt pass, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Ziz Valley.

In the afternoon, we’ll arrive in the Sahara Desert of Merzouga. Here, you’ll switch to camels for an unforgettable ride across the sandy desert, with a stop on a high dune to witness the magical Sahara sunset. Your accommodation for the night is a blend of traditional nomadic tents and the comforts of a hotel. Enjoy Berber drum music and dancing around the campfire beneath the starry desert sky.

Day 4: Merzouga Sahara – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

Wake up early to witness the mesmerizing Sahara sunrise. After breakfast, we leave the desert to visit Rissani, the ancient capital of Tafilalet. Rissani remains a major trading center in the region, with a bustling souk that comes alive on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. After exploring the souk, we continue to Erfoud, where you’ll visit one of the fossilized marble workshops.

Our journey then takes us through Touroug and Tinjdad palm groves to reach the Todra Gorges. This high red cliff-sided canyon is an ideal place for rock climbers, and you’ll have some free time to explore and admire the breathtaking landscape. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

We continue to the Dades Valley, passing through Boumalne Dades, with stops at the “monkey fingers” rock formation and a mountain viewpoint overlooking the valley. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a hotel.

Day 5: Dades Valley  – Ouarzazate Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – Telouet – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

After breakfast, we’ll journey to Kalaa Magouna to visit the Rose Valley, known for its annual Rose Festival in May. Local artisans offer rose-based products like perfumes, rose water, oil, and cosmetics. We then drive through the palm groves of Skoura and visit the Kasbah of Amredhyle. Finally, we reach Ouarzazate, where you can explore studios that have hosted famous movie productions and the Taourirt Kasbah.

Next, we visit the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and featured in many movies and TV series. Afterward, we visit the Telouet Kasbah and continue our journey to Marrakech, passing through the Tizi-N-Tichka pass and the High Atlas Mountains. Stops will be made for lunch and scenic photos.

Finally, you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation in a Marrakech Riad, concluding your 5-day Moroccan desert tour from Tangier. Reflect on your journey through diverse landscapes, historical wonders, and the enchanting Sahara Desert.