Desert Tour From Tangier to Marrakech
(138 Reviews)
Overview
Experience Morocco’s incredible diversity on this 5-Day Desert Tour from Tangier to Marrakech, a journey that connects the blue city of Chefchaouen, the imperial wonder of Fes, and the golden dunes of Merzouga.
Ride camels into the heart of the Sahara, sleep beneath the stars at a luxury desert camp, and explore the breathtaking Todra Gorges, Dades Valley, and Ait Benhaddou Kasbah before reaching vibrant Marrakech.
This tour combines nature, culture, and adventure for an unforgettable Moroccan experience, ideal for travelers who wish to see the best of northern and southern Morocco in one seamless route.
Trip Highlights
- Journey from Tangier through the scenic Rif Mountains to the blue city of Chefchaouen.
- Explore Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital, with an official local guide.
- Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through Ifrane, Azrou, and Midelt.
- Ride camels across the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset and sunrise.
- Spend a magical night in a luxury Sahara desert camp under the stars.
- Discover the spectacular Todra Gorges and Dades Valley.
- Visit Ait Benhaddou Kasbah and Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa.”
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260m) to reach Marrakech.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Tangier → Chefchaouen → Fes
Your private Morocco adventure begins with a pick-up from your Tangier hotel or port.
Travel through the Rif Mountains, stopping in the enchanting Chefchaouen, known for its vivid blue streets and artisan shops. Enjoy lunch in a rooftop café overlooking the medina before continuing to Fes, where you’ll check in to your traditional riad for dinner and rest.
Day 2 – Full-Day Guided Tour of Fes
After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided city tour of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, the University of Al-Qarawiyyin, the Royal Palace gates, the Mellah (Jewish quarter), and the vibrant souks where artisans still practice age-old crafts.
End the day with dinner and overnight in your riad.
Day 3 – Fes → Ifrane → Midelt → Ziz Valley → Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, depart Fes and drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane, Morocco’s “Little Switzerland,” and Azrou to meet Barbary monkeys in the cedar forest.
Continue to Midelt for lunch before passing through the Ziz Valley and its vast palm groves.
Arrive in Merzouga, where camels await for a sunset trek through the dunes of Erg Chebbi.
At camp, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner and Berber music beneath the desert stars.
Day 4 – Merzouga → Todra Gorges → Dades Valley
Rise early to watch the sunrise over the desert, then ride camels back to Merzouga for breakfast and a refreshing shower.
Travel through Rissani and Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops, before reaching the stunning Todra Gorges, where towering cliffs reach up to 300 meters.
After lunch, continue to the Dades Valley, passing charming Berber villages and spectacular rock formations known as “Monkey Fingers.
Day 5 – Dades Valley → Ouarzazate → Ait Benhaddou → Marrakech
After breakfast, journey along the Valley of Roses and through the oasis of Skoura to reach Ouarzazate, where you’ll visit the Cinema Studios and Taourirt Kasbah.
Continue to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site featured in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
After exploring the ancient kasbah, cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260m) and descend into the vibrant city of Marrakech, where your tour concludes.
What's included
- Private transfer in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- Pick-up from Tangier & drop-off at your Marrakech accommodation
- Full-day guided tour of Fes with official local guide
- Guided visit to Ait Benhaddou Kasbah
- Visit to Ouarzazate’s Cinema Studios
- 3 nights in traditional riads or Kasbah hotels (Fes & Dades Valley)
- 1 night in a luxury desert camp (private ensuite tent)
- Breakfasts and dinners during the tour (vegetarian options available)
- Camel trekking during sunset and sunrise
- Private bathroom with hot shower & toilet in your desert tent
- Free time to explore scenic sites, walks, and photography
What’s Not Included
- Lunches and beverages.
- Personal expenses and optional activities.
- Entrance fees (if any) not listed as included.
Know Before You Go
- Camel rides last approximately 1–1.5 hours each way.
- Warm clothing recommended for desert nights (October–March).
- 4x4 transfer available if you prefer not to ride camels.
- Private and customizable tour — ideal for couples, families, and small groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is the drive from Tangier to Merzouga?
2. What kind of accommodation is included?
You’ll stay in charming riads or kasbah hotels, plus one night in a luxury desert camp with ensuite tents.
3. Can I start this tour from Marrakech or Fes instead?
Yes, this itinerary can be customized to start or end in Tangier, Fes, or Marrakech.
4. Are vegetarian or vegan meals available?
Absolutely, all dietary requirements can be arranged upon request.
5. Is the camel ride mandatory?
No, guests may choose a 4×4 transfer to the desert camp instead of camels.
6. What’s the best time of year for this tour?
The best time is between March–June and September–November, when the weather is ideal.
Contact Us
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