9 days in Morocco from Tangier

Day 1: Arrival in Tangier Morocco

Discover Tangier’s Key Sites

Welcome to Tangier, Morocco’s northern gateway, a city steeped in international influences. Begin exploring with highlights such as:

• Kasbah Museum: Dive into the city’s history at this beautifully restored museum.
• Medina and Grand Socco: Wander through the bustling market square and the winding streets of the medina.
• Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules: Enjoy the stunning coastal views where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean.

Overnight in Tangier

Stay in a cozy riad in Tangier’s medina.

Day 2: Tangier to Chefchaouen

Experience the Blue Pearl of Morocco

After breakfast, travel to Chefchaouen, known for its blue-painted streets and relaxed vibe. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to explore:

• The Medina: Wander the vibrant blue alleys, ideal for photos and local shopping.
• Plaza Uta el-Hammam: Relax at a café in the main square, soaking in the town’s unique charm.
• Ras El Maa Waterfall: A peaceful spot just outside the medina with refreshing views.

Overnight in Chefchaouen

Stay in a charming guesthouse nestled in the medina.

Day 3: Chefchaouen to Meknes and Fes

Discover the Historic City of Meknes

Head to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, with highlights including:

• Bab Mansour Gate: One of the grandest gates in Morocco, showcasing intricate design.
• Moulay Ismail Mausoleum: The resting place of Sultan Moulay Ismail.
• Royal Stables and Heri es-Souani: An impressive complex that once housed the royal horses.

Continue to Fes

Arrive in Fes by evening, known for its ancient medina and rich cultural heritage.

Overnight in Fes

Settle into a traditional riad within Fes’ historic medina.

Day 4: Full Day in Fes

Explore Fes el-Bali, Morocco’s Oldest Medina

Spend a full day discovering the wonders of Fes el-Bali (Old Fes), where highlights include:

• Al-Qarawiyyin University: Founded in 859, this is the world’s oldest university.
• Bou Inania Madrasa: A beautifully decorated Islamic school open to visitors.
• Chouara Tannery: Witness traditional leather tanning processes from the terraces overlooking the vibrant dye pits.

Discover Fes Jdid

Visit the newer part of Fes, known as Fes Jdid, and explore the impressive Royal Palace gates.

Overnight in Fes

Day 5: Fes to Merzouga Desert via Ifrane and Midelt

Travel Through the Scenic Atlas Mountains

Depart Fes and head towards the Middle Atlas Mountains, with stops in:

• Ifrane: A charming town known for its Alpine architecture and clean streets.
• Azrou Cedar Forest: Stroll through cedar woodlands and meet the resident Barbary macaques.

Lunch in Midelt

Pause for lunch in the town of Midelt, a pleasant spot halfway to the desert.

Arrive in Merzouga

Upon reaching Merzouga by late afternoon, prepare for your Sahara Desert experience. Embark on a camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes and watch the stunning desert sunset.

Overnight in Desert Camp

Enjoy a traditional dinner and stay overnight in a comfortable desert camp, experiencing Berber hospitality under the stars.

Day 6: Merzouga to Todra Gorge

Sunrise Over the Dunes

Wake up early to witness the unforgettable sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, return to Merzouga by camel and continue your journey.

Visit Rissani

Explore the traditional market of Rissani, an ancient trading town known for its authentic souks.

Arrive at Todra Gorge

Travel on to Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon with high cliffs and a crystal-clear river. Walk through the gorge and marvel at the towering red rock walls.

Overnight in Todra Gorge

Stay at a cozy guesthouse or hotel near the gorge.

Day 7: Todra Gorge to Dades Valley and Ouarzazate

Drive Through the Scenic Dades Valley

Continue your journey through the Dades Valley, known for its unique rock formations and lush landscapes.

• Monkey Fingers Rock Formations: Stop for photos and admire the fascinating shapes of these rock formations.
• Dades Gorges: Take a walk through this scenic area and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Arrive in Ouarzazate

Reach Ouarzazate, also known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” famous for its film studios and nearby kasbahs.

• Kasbah Taourirt: Explore this historic kasbah, once home to the Glaoui family.
• Film Studios: Optional visit to the Atlas Film Studios, where numerous movies have been shot.

Overnight in Ouarzazate

Day 8: Ouarzazate to Ait Benhaddou and Marrakech

Explore the Ancient Ksar of Ait Benhaddou

Visit Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most iconic kasbahs. This ancient fortified village has been featured in many films and offers excellent views of the surrounding valley.

Cross the High Atlas Mountains

Travel through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, with scenic stops along the way, before arriving in Marrakech.

Arrive in Marrakech

After a long day of travel, settle into your riad or hotel in the vibrant city of Marrakech.

Overnight in Marrakech

Day 9: Explore Marrakech

Discover the Sights of Marrakech

Spend your last day exploring the lively city of Marrakech, with must-see attractions such as:

• Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: The bustling heart of Marrakech, filled with street performers, food stalls, and souks.
• Koutoubia Mosque: The largest mosque in Marrakech, with an iconic minaret.
• Bahia Palace: A stunning palace with beautiful gardens and intricate tilework.
• Majorelle Garden: A serene botanical garden designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle and later owned by Yves Saint Laurent.

End of Tour

After a full day in Marrakech, your 9-day Moroccan adventure concludes. Say goodbye to the mesmerizing landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant culture of Morocco.

Why Choose This 9-Day Tour?

This 9-day tour from Tangier Morocco to Marrakech via the desert offers a comprehensive look at Morocco’s most captivating destinations. From the historic cities of Fes and Meknes to the enchanting blue streets of Chefchaouen, and from the breathtaking Sahara dunes to the colorful souks of Marrakech, this journey encapsulates the best of Morocco.