7 Days Morocco Desert Tour From Tangier

Embark on a captivating 7-day tour from Tangier, venturing through Morocco’s imperial cities, mountains, and vast deserts. This itinerary promises a remarkable journey filled with unique experiences, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural immersion. From the bustling medinas of Fes to the golden sands of the Sahara, this tour encapsulates Morocco’s timeless beauty.

Day 1: Arrival in Tangier – Discover the Gateway to Africa

Exploring Tangier

Start your Moroccan adventure in Tangier, the iconic port city bridging Europe and Africa. After arrival, meet your guide and settle into your hotel. Spend the day exploring the city’s highlights, including the Kasbah Museum, which showcases Tangier’s history and cultural heritage. Wander through the lively Medina and visit the American Legation Museum, the first U.S. property outside of the United States.

Cape Spartel and Caves of Hercules

Take a scenic drive to Cape Spartel, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea, and explore the Caves of Hercules with their striking, Africa-shaped opening. These sites offer incredible photo opportunities and insights into Morocco’s natural wonders.

Day 2: Tangier to Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl of Morocco

Journey to Chefchaouen

After breakfast, depart for Chefchaouen, a charming town known for its blue-washed buildings and relaxed vibe, nestled in the Rif Mountains. The scenic drive takes around two hours.

Exploring the Blue City

Upon arrival, stroll through the town’s quaint, winding streets and take in the vibrant blue color that gives Chefchaouen its nickname. Key sites include the Kasbah Museum and the bustling Outa el Hammam Square. Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, surrounded by the town’s tranquil atmosphere.

Day 3: Chefchaouen to Fes – Cultural Exploration

Journey to Fes

Depart Chefchaouen in the morning for the historic city of Fes. This four-hour drive takes you through rolling hills and fertile plains, offering stunning views of the Moroccan countryside.

Discovering Fes

Once in Fes, check into your hotel and begin exploring the city’s Medina (Fes el Bali), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Highlights include the Bou Inania Medersa, an impressive religious school, and the bustling souks filled with textiles, ceramics, and local crafts.

Dinner at a Traditional Riad

End the day with dinner in a beautiful riad, savoring Fes’ rich culinary offerings like pastilla, a savory and sweet pie, and other Moroccan delicacies.

Day 4: Fes to Merzouga – The Gateway to the Sahara

Scenic Drive to Merzouga

After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic journey towards the Sahara Desert. Pass through the Middle Atlas Mountains, making a stop in Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its Alpine-style architecture. Continue through Azrou with its famous cedar forests, home to Barbary macaques.

Arrival in Merzouga

In the late afternoon, reach Merzouga, a village on the edge of the Sahara Desert. Upon arrival, trade your vehicle for a camel as you head into the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi to experience a stunning desert sunset. Arrive at a luxury desert camp where you’ll enjoy a traditional Berber dinner under the starlit sky, followed by local music and storytelling around the campfire.

Day 5: Merzouga to Dades Valley – Through the Heart of the Desert

Sunrise Over the Dunes

Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes before returning to Merzouga by camel. Freshen up and enjoy breakfast at a local inn.

Journey Through the Todra Gorges

Depart Merzouga and drive through the desert landscape to the impressive Todra Gorges, where towering cliffs create a dramatic canyon. Take time to explore the gorge, walking along the clear, narrow river surrounded by sheer rock walls.

Overnight in Dades Valley

Continue to Dades Valley, known for its unique rock formations and lush greenery. Check into a cozy guesthouse for the night, and enjoy a delicious dinner surrounded by the valley’s natural beauty.

Day 6: Dades Valley to Marrakech – The Ancient Red City

Exploring the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs

After breakfast, drive along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, passing through small villages and oasis towns. Visit Skoura and its famous Amridil Kasbah, a historic fortress showcasing traditional Moroccan architecture.

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains

Continue towards Marrakech, crossing the stunning High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest major mountain pass in North Africa. Enjoy panoramic views of lush valleys and rugged peaks before descending into the bustling city of Marrakech.

Evening Arrival in Marrakech

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind after the day’s journey. For dinner, explore Marrakech’s renowned food scene, sampling dishes such as lamb tagine or pastilla in one of the city’s iconic riads.

Day 7: Full Day in Marrakech – The Red City’s Highlights

Guided Tour of Marrakech

Spend your final day discovering the best of Marrakech. Start with the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, known for its towering minaret and beautiful gardens. Visit the Bahia Palace, with its intricate mosaics and tranquil courtyards, and Saadian Tombs, a mausoleum for the royal family dating back to the 16th century.

Explore the Medina and Souks

Dive into the vibrant heart of Marrakech by exploring the Medina and its bustling souks. Find everything from spices and leather goods to colorful rugs and traditional Moroccan attire. End your shopping spree at Djemaa el-Fna Square, a UNESCO-listed site filled with food stalls, musicians, and street performers.

Farewell Dinner in Marrakech

Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant, celebrating the end of your unforgettable 7-day adventure through Morocco.

This 7-day Morocco desert tour from Tangier showcases the best of Morocco’s imperial cities, natural landscapes, and rich heritage. It’s an unforgettable experience designed to give you a true taste of Morocco’s unique culture and scenic beauty.