There are only a few journeys that wrap culture, nature, and adventure into one, like a 7-day tour from Tangier does. From blue cities located in the mountains to desert sunsets in the Sahara, every moment will feel like a page from a storybook. Whether it's your first time in Morocco or you're returning to explore its hidden gems, this 7-day tour from Tangier offers a beautifully balanced taste of the country's culture, nature, and soul.
Start Your Moroccan Adventure in Tangier: We'll begin our journey in Tangier, the northern gateway to Morocco. After meeting you at the designated pick-up point, we'll head out on a scenic drive through the Rif Mountains. A Glimpse into Tetouan's Andalusian Soul: On the way, we'll stop in Tetouan, a city known for its distinct Andalusian character. We'll walk through its UNESCO-listed medina, where whitewashed buildings and narrow alleys reflect its strong Spanish influence. Evening Arrival in the Blue Pearl – Chefchaouen: By evening, we'll reach Chefchaouen, located further up in the Rif Mountains. Once you check into a traditional riad inside the medina, you'll have free time to explore the peaceful blue alleyways, browse local handicrafts, or relax on a rooftop terrace with panoramic mountain views.
Morning Drive Through the Ouazzane Region: We'll leave Chefchaouen in the morning and drive through the quiet countryside of the Ouazzane area. Along the way, you'll see traditional villages, olive groves, and gently rolling hills. Roman Ruins at Volubilis: Our next stop is Volubilis, Morocco's most important Roman site. We'll walk through the remains of this ancient city, where you'll see mosaic floors, standing columns, and stone arches that date back nearly 2,000 years. Imperial Gate – Bab el-Mansour: From Volubilis, we'll head to Meknes and begin with Bab el-Mansour, the city's most famous landmark. This grand gate is known for its size and detailed tilework. Visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail: A short walk from the gate brings us to the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. It's one of the few religious sites in Morocco open to non-Muslims. Inside, we'll explore its quiet courtyards and colorful tile designs. Walk Through the Medina of Meknes: Before leaving Meknes, we'll take a stroll through the old medina. It's more laid-back than Fes or Marrakech, with traditional souks, quiet alleys, and workshops run by local artisans. Evening Arrival in Fes: We'll end the day with a drive to Fes. Once we arrive, you'll check into a riad inside the old medina, readying you for tomorrow's historic tour.
Start the Day at Al Qaraouine University: Our day starts at Al Qaraouine University, widely recognized as the world's oldest university that has operated without interruption since its establishment in 859 CE. Visit Bou Inania Madrasa: Our next stop is Bou Inania Madrasa, one of the most well-preserved theological schools in the country. We'll guide you through its richly decorated prayer halls and courtyards, featuring intricate zellige tilework and carved cedarwood, classic examples of Marinid architecture. Walk Through the Chouara Tanneries: From there, we'll head into the bustling medina and make our way to the famous Chouara Tanneries. We'll take you to a rooftop terrace where you can view the traditional leather-making process, a method that hasn't changed for centuries. Observe Andalusian Influences in the Medina: As we explore more of Fes's medina, we'll point out strong Andalusian design elements—from finely tiled fountains to arched wooden doors—brought over by Muslim refugees from Spain. Visit a Traditional Ceramic Workshop: Later in the day, we'll stop by a local ceramic workshop. Here, you'll see artisans crafting the city's famous blue-and-white pottery. Overnight Stay in Fes: We'll wrap up the day back at your riad in Fes, giving you time to relax and prepare for the desert journey ahead.
Morning Stop in Ifrane – "Little Switzerland" of Morocco: We'll begin the day with a drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, making our first stop in Ifrane. This small town is known for its clean streets, alpine-style buildings, and manicured gardens, earning it the nickname "Little Switzerland." Visit the Cedar Forest of Azrou: Next, we'll continue to the Azrou Cedar Forest, one of the oldest natural forests in the country. You'll walk through groves of giant cedar trees and spot Barbary macaques along the way. Lunch Break in Midelt: We'll then drive to Midelt, a quiet town located between the Middle and High Atlas ranges, known for its apple orchards, where we'll stop for a relaxed lunch. Scenic Stop at Ziz Valley: After lunch, we'll descend into the Ziz Valley, where the scenery begins to change as we approach the desert. We'll stop at a viewpoint overlooking a stretch of green palm groves winding through the valley floor. Drive Through Erfoud and Rissani: As we near the edge of the Sahara, we'll pass through the town of Erfoud, famous for its fossils and desert-style architecture. Shortly after, we'll go through Rissani, a historic market town. Overnight in Merzouga: By evening, we'll arrive in Merzouga at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes. You'll check into your desert hotel and have time to rest.
Morning Music in Khamlia Village: We'll begin the day in Khamlia, a quiet village known for its Gnawa music, a spiritual and soulful tradition with deep roots in sub-Saharan Africa. The local musicians will welcome you with hypnotic rhythms and warm hospitality. Visit to the Abandoned Mines of Mefes: Next, we'll head out across the desert to the site of the old Mefes mines. These lead mines were once active but are now silent ruins scattered across a dusty, dramatic landscape. Meet Nomadic Families of the Sahara: We'll continue further into the desert to visit Berber nomad families who live in traditional tents across the rocky plains. Sunset Camel Trek into Erg Chebbi: By late afternoon, we'll return to Merzouga and mount camels for a trek into the vast dunes of Erg Chebbi. You'll enjoy a beautiful sunset along the way. Unforgettable Night in the Desert Camp: Our destination is a desert camp tucked among the dunes. You'll enjoy dinner by firelight, listen to live drumming under the stars, and settle in for a peaceful night in the silence of the Sahara.
Sunrise over Erg Chebbi: We'll begin the day before the world wakes, climbing a dune near camp to witness the Sahara sunrise. After soaking in the views, we'll return to camp for breakfast and prepare for the next leg of the journey. Morning Walk in Todra Gorge: Heading west, we'll drive through wide desert plains and the green ribbon of Tinghir oasis until we reach the spectacular Todra Gorge. Towering limestone walls, some reaching 300 meters, rise dramatically on either side of the narrow canyon and river. Scenic Drive Through Dades Valley: In the afternoon, the journey continues through the Dades Valley, a stretch of rugged beauty where red rocks, winding rivers, and scattered kasbahs create a storybook setting. We'll reach your hotel or traditional kasbah just before sunset.
Morning in the Rose Valley: We'll begin our day with a scenic ride through Kalaat M'Gouna, the fragrant heart of Morocco's Rose Valley. The town is known for traditional rosewater distillation and its annual rose bloom. Cinematic Sights in Ouarzazate: Our next stop is Ouarzazate, Morocco's film capital and home to the legendary Atlas Film Studios. We'll step onto movie sets used in epic films and TV shows like Game of Thrones. Explore Ait Benhaddou – A UNESCO Landmark: A short drive leads us to the fortified village of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its mudbrick architecture. We'll wander its ancient alleyways and take in sweeping views from the hilltop. Crossing the Tizi n'Tichka Pass: In the afternoon, we'll travel through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, one of Morocco's highest and most scenic routes. Passing Through Berber Villages: As we descend, we'll pass clusters of Berber villages with their earthy homes and terraced farmlands, reflecting a slower, simpler way of life. Arrival in Marrakech: We'll reach Marrakech by early evening, just as the city starts to buzz with life, marking the end of this 7-day Morocco tour from Tangier.
