10 days in Morocco from Tangier to Marrakech

Day 1: Arrival in Tangier

Explore Tangier’s Key Sites

Begin your Moroccan adventure in Tangier, a city where European, African, and Arab influences merge. Highlights of the day include:

• Kasbah Museum: Located in the historic Kasbah, showcasing Tangier’s diverse history.
• Medina and Grand Socco: A lively market square perfect for strolling.
• Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules: Marvel at where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean.

Overnight in Tangier

Stay in a traditional riad or hotel near the medina.

Day 2: Tangier to Chefchaouen

Discover the Blue Pearl of Morocco

After breakfast, travel through the Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen, famous for its blue-washed streets. Enjoy free time to explore:

• Chefchaouen Medina: Wander through the picturesque alleys and shop for local crafts.
• Plaza Uta el-Hammam: The town’s main square, perfect for people-watching.
• Ras El Maa Waterfall: A refreshing spot just a short walk from the medina.

Overnight in Chefchaouen

Stay at a cozy guesthouse in the medina.

Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fes via Meknes and Volubilis

Historical Sights of Meknes and Volubilis

Continue your journey to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities. Key stops include:

• Bab Mansour Gate: Morocco’s largest gate, famous for its intricate designs.
• Moulay Ismail Mausoleum: Final resting place of Sultan Moulay Ismail.
• Volubilis: Explore the ancient Roman ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Arrival in Fes

Arrive in Fes by evening, where you’ll stay in the heart of the old city.

Overnight in Fes

Day 4: Full Day Exploring Fes

Explore the Medina of Fes el-Bali

Spend a day discovering Fes el-Bali (Old Fes), known for its historical sites and labyrinthine streets:

• Al-Qarawiyyin University: Visit one of the world’s oldest universities.
• Chouara Tannery: See the famous leather tanneries and enjoy a panoramic view.
• Bou Inania Madrasa: A beautiful 14th-century religious school with impressive architecture.

Discover Fes Jdid

In the afternoon, explore Fes Jdid, the newer part of the city, and visit the Royal Palace Gates.

Overnight in Fes

Day 5: Fes to Merzouga Desert via Ifrane and Midelt

Crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains

Head south through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing by:

• Ifrane: Known as “Little Switzerland” for its Alpine-style architecture.
• Azrou Cedar Forest: Meet the friendly Barbary macaques that live in the forest.

Lunch in Midelt

Stop for lunch in Midelt, a town in the high plains of the Atlas Mountains.

Arrival in Merzouga

Arrive in Merzouga and prepare for a sunset camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes.

Overnight in Desert Camp

Stay in a comfortable desert camp, complete with a traditional Moroccan dinner and music under the stars.

Day 6: Merzouga to Todra Gorge

Sunrise in the Desert

Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the dunes, then return by camel to Merzouga for breakfast. Afterward, set off for the day.

Visit Rissani Market

Stop at the traditional market in Rissani, known for its authentic souks and local products.

Arrive at Todra Gorge

Continue to Todra Gorge, a magnificent canyon with high cliffs and a river running through it. Enjoy a walk along the river and take in the breathtaking rock formations.

Overnight in Todra Gorge

Stay in a guesthouse or hotel near the gorge.

Day 7: Todra Gorge to Dades Valley

Scenic Drive through the Dades Valley

Today, journey through the Dades Valley, famous for its stunning rock formations and scenic landscapes. Highlights include:

• Monkey Fingers Rock Formation: A unique set of rocks resembling monkey fingers.
• Dades Gorge: Walk through the gorge, known for its dramatic canyon walls.

Overnight in Dades Valley

Stay in a charming local guesthouse with beautiful views.

Day 8: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou

Explore Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou

Travel towards Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco.” Key stops include:

• Kasbah Taourirt: A historic fortress that once belonged to the Glaoui family.
• Atlas Film Studios: An optional visit to the studios where many famous movies were filmed.

Ait Benhaddou

Visit Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an ancient fortified village. Walk through the ksar’s narrow lanes and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

Overnight in Ait Benhaddou

Day 9: Ait Benhaddou to Marrakech via Tizi n’Tichka Pass

Cross the High Atlas Mountains

Drive through the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains, stopping for photos along the way.

Arrival in Marrakech

Arrive in Marrakech in the afternoon. Check into your riad and relax before heading out to explore the city.

Overnight in Marrakech

Stay in a traditional riad near the medina.

Day 10: Full Day Exploring Marrakech

Discover Marrakech’s Iconic Sights

Spend your last day exploring Marrakech, where highlights include:

• Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: Experience the lively atmosphere of this central square, filled with entertainers and food stalls.
• Koutoubia Mosque: Visit the largest mosque in Marrakech with its iconic minaret.
• Bahia Palace: Discover the beautiful architecture and lush gardens of this 19th-century palace.
• Majorelle Garden: A tranquil garden designed by artist Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent.

End of Tour

Conclude your Moroccan journey in Marrakech, taking home unforgettable memories of Morocco’s culture, history, and landscapes.

Tour Inclusions

• Accommodation: 9 nights in riads, hotels, and a desert camp
• Meals: Daily breakfast and select dinners
• Transportation: Private vehicle with a driver-guide
• Guided Tours: Local guides in Fes and Marrakech
• Camel Trekking: Sunset camel ride in Merzouga
• Entrance Fees: To major historical sites and attractions

Why Choose This Tour?

This 10-day tour from Tangier to Marrakech via the desert offers an in-depth look at Morocco’s diversity. From the historic cities in the north to the enchanting Sahara Desert, this tour provides a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.