DESRT TOURS
12-Day Morocco Tour from Tangier
About this tour
Discover the magic of Morocco on this 12-day journey from the northern coast to the Sahara Desert and the vibrant south. This tour combines historical cities, breathtaking landscapes, desert adventures, and coastal charm. Wander the blue streets of Chefchaouen, explore Roman ruins, trek through the Sahara, admire Atlas Mountain panoramas, and enjoy the lively energy of Marrakech and the Atlantic coast.
Highlights
Explore Tangier’s scenic coastline and dramatic cliffs
Wander the blue alleys of Chefchaouen
Discover Roman ruins at Volubilis and imperial cities like Meknes and Fez
Cross the Middle and High Atlas Mountains
Visit cedar forests and spot Barbary monkeys
Explore Fes’ medina, tanneries, and artisan workshops
Flexible itinerary that can be adapted to your pace and interests
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tangier
Arrive in Tangier and transfer to your hotel to relax. In the afternoon, enjoy a panoramic coastal tour, visiting dramatic cliffs, caves, and scenic viewpoints where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. End the day with a traditional Moroccan dinner.
Day 2: Tangier – Chefchaouen
Travel to the Blue City of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains. Explore its famous blue-painted medina, quaint alleys, artisan shops, and charming squares. Dinner and overnight in Chefchaouen.
Day 3: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes
Morning stroll in Chefchaouen, then visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Continue to Meknes, with its grand gates, plazas, and historic monuments. Arrive in Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart, for dinner and overnight.
Day 4: Full Day in Fes
Spend the day exploring Fes’ medina, madrasas, tanneries, artisan workshops, and historic fountains. Discover the Jewish quarter, city gates, and enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine in the medina. Overnight in Fes.
Day 5: Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Merzouga
Travel through Ifrane, the “Switzerland of Morocco,” and the cedar forest of Azrou, home to Barbary monkeys. Continue through the Middle Atlas Mountains and the fertile Ziz Valley, arriving in Merzouga at sunset. Dinner and overnight near the desert dunes.
Day 6: Merzouga – Erg Chebbi – Desert Camp
Visit local nomadic families in the morning. In the afternoon, enjoy a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, witness a desert sunset, and spend the night in a traditional desert camp with Berber music under the star
Day 7: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
Early sunrise over the dunes, return by camel, then journey to Todra Gorges and explore its dramatic canyon. Continue into the Dades Valley, famous for rock formations, palm groves, and Berber villages. Overnight in the valley.
Day 8: Dades Valley – Valley of Roses – Skoura – Ouarzazate
Drive through Skoura Oasis and the Valley of Roses, then visit the historic Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continue across the High Atlas Mountains, enjoying breathtaking panoramas, before arriving in Marrakech for dinner and overnight.
Day 9: Ouarzazate – Aït Ben Haddou – Marrakech
Visit the historic Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka pass, enjoying panoramic views of valleys and villages. Arrive in Marrakech for dinner and overnight.
Day 10: Exploring Marrakech
Spend the day in Marrakech, visiting palaces, gardens, medina, and souks. Experience the central square’s lively atmosphere, artisan workshops, and street performers. Afternoon at leisure for shopping or exploration. Overnight in Marrakech.
Day 11: Marrakech – Essaouira – Marrakech
Day trip to the coastal city of Essaouira, exploring its medina, fishing port, beaches, and artisan shops. Sample fresh seafood and enjoy the Atlantic breeze. Return to Marrakech for dinner and overnight.
Day 12: Departure from Marrakech
After breakfast, enjoy free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Transfer to the airport for your departure, concluding your 12-day Moroccan adventure.
What to Know Before Your 12-Day Morocco Tour
What to Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes for medinas, mountains, and desert
- Light clothes for the day, warm layers for desert nights
- Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
- Backpack for essentials and camera
Tips for First-Time Travelers:
- Carry cash for small purchases in villages and markets
- Dress modestly in rural and religious areas
- Stay hydrated, especially in desert and mountain regions
- Allow extra time for mountain roads and desert travel
Climate Overview:
- Tangier & Chefchaouen: Mild and pleasant
- Fes & Meknes: Hot summers, mild winters
- Middle & High Atlas Mountains: Cool to cold; snow possible in winter
- Sahara Desert: Hot days, cold nights
- Dades Valley & Todra Gorges: Warm days, cooler nights
- Marrakech & Essaouira: Warm, breezy coastal climate
