13 Days Morocco Tour from Tangier to Sahara Desert, Imperial Cities & Chefchaouen

After breakfast, depart Rabat and travel south to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and economic capital. Visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, beautifully positioned on the Atlantic coast (outside visit if the interior is unavailable or according to your preference). You will also enjoy a scenic drive along the Corniche before stopping for lunch.

In the afternoon, continue your journey to the vibrant city of Marrakech, known as the Red City. Upon arrival, check in to your riad or hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure. You may choose to explore the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, filled with street performers, food stalls, and traditional Moroccan entertainment.

Overnight in Marrakech.

After breakfast, meet your licensed local guide for a fascinating walking tour of Marrakech, Morocco’s vibrant Red City. Begin by visiting the iconic Koutoubia Mosque (outside view), the largest mosque in Marrakech and one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Continue to the magnificent Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture featuring beautifully decorated courtyards, intricate mosaics, and peaceful gardens. Then explore the historic Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll wander through colorful souks filled with traditional crafts, spices, textiles, and local products.

Your tour concludes at the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the beating heart of Marrakech, where storytellers, musicians, snake charmers, and street food vendors create an unforgettable atmosphere. After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace, relax at a café, or visit the beautiful Majorelle Garden (optional).

Return to your riad or hotel in the late afternoon.

Overnight in Marrakech.

After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to the charming coastal town of Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its relaxed atmosphere, historic medina, and picturesque fishing harbor. Along the way, you may stop to see the famous argan trees and visit a local women’s argan oil cooperative to learn about the traditional production process.

Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the fortified Skala de la Ville, wander through the colorful medina, stroll along the sandy beach, and watch the fishermen at the bustling port. Savor a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the Atlantic Ocean before continuing your exploration of the city’s art galleries, boutiques, and lively squares.

In the late afternoon, return to Marrakech, where you can relax at your riad or enjoy another evening in the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa Square.

Overnight in Marrakech.

Depart from Marrakech and journey across the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m), enjoying breathtaking panoramic views along the way.

Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aït Ben Haddou, where you will enjoy a one-hour guided walking tour through this remarkable fortified village (ksar). Discover its rich history, unique Berber culture, and stunning landscapes. Located on the southern slopes of the High Atlas Mountains in the Ouarzazate Province, Aït Ben Haddou is the most famous ksar in the Ounila Valley and one of Morocco’s finest examples of traditional southern architecture.

Surrounded by defensive walls reinforced with corner towers and an impressive entrance gate, the ksar is home to a fascinating collection of traditional earthen houses, fortified residences, narrow alleys, and communal spaces. Its exceptional preservation and historical significance earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After the visit, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Aït Ben Haddou.

In the afternoon, continue through Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” before driving along the famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs to reach the beautiful Dades Valley. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and spend a relaxing night surrounded by the valley’s spectacular rock formations and lush oasis landscapes.

Overnight in Dades Valley.

After a restful night’s sleep, enjoy a delicious breakfast while breathing in the fresh mountain air of the beautiful Dades Valley.

Begin the day with a visit to the spectacular Dades Gorges, then continue your journey through the town of Boumalne Dades toward Todra Gorge, located near the town of Tinghir. Rising up to 300 meters high, Todra Gorge is one of the world’s most impressive canyons. Nestled on the eastern side of the High Atlas Mountains, its towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear river make it one of Morocco’s most breathtaking natural attractions.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant along the way before continuing your journey toward the Sahara Desert.

Before arriving in Merzouga, stop at a traditional Berber shop where you can try on authentic desert clothing for memorable photos. Wearing the traditional outfit is completely optional, and photos taken in the clothing are free of charge. Headscarves are also available to wear during your camel trekking experience.

Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the magnificent Erg Chebbi dunes. Meet your camel caravan and ride across the golden sand dunes as the sun begins to set, creating unforgettable views of the Sahara.

Spend the night in a comfortable desert camp, where you will enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner followed by Berber music, drumming around the campfire, dancing under the stars, and an unforgettable night in the heart of the desert.

Overnight in Merzouga (The Camp)

Important Note: If you would like to enjoy wine during your stay at the desert camp, please purchase it before arriving in Merzouga, as alcoholic beverages are not available in the desert camps.

Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. Before breakfast, you may enjoy sandboarding on the dunes surrounding the camp. After breakfast, collect your luggage and meet your driver, who will be waiting to pick you up in the desert.

Begin your desert discovery tour with a visit to local Berber nomad families living in traditional black tents. Experience their warm hospitality as you share a glass of freshly brewed Moroccan tea while learning about their unique way of life.

Continue your journey to the historic M’Fis (Mascara) Mine, an abandoned mining site located in the heart of the desert that offers fascinating insights into the region’s history.

Next, visit the village of Khamlia, renowned for its rich Gnawa heritage. Enjoy a live performance of authentic Gnawa music, a unique cultural tradition with deep African roots.

Afterwards, savor a delicious traditional Berber pizza for lunch before exploring the desert oasis and its lush palm groves, where local families cultivate their farms using ancient irrigation systems.

Arrive at your hotel in Merzouga at approximately 3:00 PM, where you can relax and enjoy the swimming pool or unwind at your leisure.

Overnight in Merzouga (The Hotel)

Optional Activity: If you would like to experience an ATV (quad bike) ride at sunset, your driver will be happy to help arrange this activity for an additional charge.

After breakfast at your hotel in Merzouga, meet your driver and begin your journey toward Fes. Travel through the breathtaking Ziz Valley, one of Morocco’s largest palm groves, where you’ll stop at panoramic viewpoints to admire the lush oasis and dramatic landscapes.

Continue through the Middle Atlas Mountains to Midelt, a peaceful town nestled between the High and Middle Atlas ranges, where you’ll enjoy a lunch break.

In the afternoon, drive through the cedar forests of Azrou, where you may have the opportunity to see the famous Barbary macaques in their natural habitat. Then visit Ifrane, often referred to as the “Little Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture, clean streets, and beautiful parks.

Arrive in Fes in the late afternoon, check in to your traditional riad or hotel, and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure.

Overnight in Fes.

After breakfast, meet your licensed local guide for a full-day sightseeing tour of Fes, Morocco’s oldest Imperial City and spiritual capital. Begin with a visit to the Royal Palace (exterior), famous for its magnificent golden gates, before continuing to the historic Jewish Quarter (Mellah).

Next, enjoy a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the ancient medina before entering the UNESCO-listed Fes el-Bali, one of the world’s largest car-free medieval cities. Wander through its maze of narrow streets, bustling souks, and traditional artisan workshops.

During your guided tour, visit the renowned Al Quaraouiyine University, considered the world’s oldest continuously operating university, the beautiful Bou Inania Madrasa, and the famous Chouara Tannery, where leather is still dyed using centuries-old traditional methods.

After lunch at a local restaurant in the medina, enjoy some free time for shopping or exploring before returning to your riad or hotel.

Overnight in Fes.

After breakfast, depart Fes and travel to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities. Enjoy a visit to its historic landmarks, including the impressive Bab Mansour Gate, El Hedim Square, and the Royal Granaries (Heri es-Souani), while learning about the city’s rich imperial heritage.

Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Volubilis, Morocco’s best-preserved Roman archaeological site. Explore the remarkably well-preserved mosaics, ancient temples, triumphal arch, and impressive ruins that offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s Roman past.

After lunch, journey through the scenic Rif Mountains to the enchanting blue city of Chefchaouen. Upon arrival, check in to your riad or hotel and enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the charming blue-painted streets, local artisan shops, and relaxed atmosphere.

Overnight in Chefchaouen.

After breakfast, enjoy a full day at your leisure to explore the charming Blue City of Chefchaouen at your own pace. Wander through its picturesque blue-painted alleyways, browse local artisan shops, and relax in the lively Outa El Hammam Square.

You may also visit the historic Kasbah Museum, enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at a local café, or take a short walk to the Spanish Mosque for breathtaking panoramic views over the city and the surrounding Rif Mountains, especially at sunset.

Overnight in Chefchaouen.

After breakfast, enjoy a final stroll through the picturesque blue streets of Chefchaouen before departing for Tetouan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved Andalusian medina and rich cultural heritage. Take a short walk through the historic center and admire its whitewashed buildings, lively markets, and traditional architecture.

Continue your journey to Tangier, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a visit to some of the city’s highlights, such as Cap Spartel, the legendary Hercules Caves, or the vibrant medina and Grand Socco.

Check in to your hotel and enjoy your final evening in northern Morocco.

Overnight in Tangier.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Tangier, depending on your departure schedule. At the appropriate time, your driver will transfer you to Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport or Tangier Port for your onward journey.

If you are departing by ferry, please confirm your departure port with your driver in advance, as ferries may depart from either Tangier Ville (Medina Port) or Tangier Med Port.

Your 13 Days Morocco Tour comes to an end, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Morocco’s imperial cities, the breathtaking Sahara Desert, the Atlantic coastline, the blue streets of Chefchaouen, and the warm hospitality of its people.

We wish you a safe journey and hope to welcome you back to Morocco again.

The end of the service.