This 10-day tour from Tangier offers a diverse exploration of Morocco’s culture, landscapes, and imperial cities—from blue mountain villages to golden Saharan dunes. If you have enough time and wish to explore Morocco’s diverse landscapes, this 10-day tour from Tangier is the best for you.
Meet & Greet in Tangier: As soon as you arrive in Tangier, we’ll be there to meet and greet you. After a short introduction, we’ll begin our journey toward the Rif Mountains.nnPanoramic Drive through the Rif Mountains: We’ll drive through the beautiful Rif Mountains, winding past green hills, forests, and small villages. Along the way, we’ll stop at a viewpoint where you can take in some amazing views of the valleys below.nnStop in Tetouan: On the way, we’ll stop in Tetouan, a lovely town known for its white buildings and a blend of Spanish and Moorish architecture. We’ll take a short walk through its old streets before continuing on our way.nnArrival in Chefchaouen: By early afternoon, we’ll arrive in Chefchaouen, also called the Blue Pearl of Morocco. Check into your riad or hotel, then explore the charming alleys, visit Plaza Uta el-Hammam, or enjoy a rooftop café with mountain views.
Depart Chefchaouen – Journey Through History: After breakfast, we’ll say goodbye to the peaceful blue streets of Chefchaouen and begin our drive south, watching Morocco’s beautiful countryside unfold.nnExplore the Ancient Roman Ruins of Volubilis: Our first major stop is Volubilis – one of Morocco’s most impressive historical sites. As we walk through this ancient Roman city, we’ll show you well-preserved mosaics, stone columns, and the iconic triumphal arch.nnImperial Majesty in Meknes: Next, we’ll head to Meknes, once home to the powerful Sultan Moulay Ismail. We’ll stop to admire Bab el-Mansour – the most famous gate in Morocco – and then visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. You’ll also have time to explore the medina.nnArrival in Fes: By the evening, we’ll arrive in Fes – one of Morocco’s oldest and most fascinating cities. We’ll check you into a traditional riad tucked inside the medina, where you will be served a traditional Moroccan dinner.
Step into the Heart of Fes: After breakfast at the riad, we’ll head out to explore Fes – Morocco’s cultural and spiritual center, which offers a true step back in time.nnRoyal Palace Gate and the Jewish Quarter (Mellah): We’ll begin with a stop at the gates of the Royal Palace. Just nearby, we’ll walk through the Jewish Quarter (Mellah), where you’ll notice the unique architecture and learn about the Jewish community that once thrived here.nnAl Quaraouiyine University – The World’s Oldest University: Step inside history at Al Quaraouiyine University, the world’s oldest continuously operating university, founded in 859 AD. You can admire the stunning courtyards and intricate Islamic architecture from the entrance.nnThe Iconic Tanneries of Fes: A visit to Fes wouldn’t be complete without seeing its famous tanneries, where leather has been crafted using traditional methods for centuries. From a rooftop terrace, we’ll witness the vibrant dyeing pits.nnAttarine Museum – A Glimpse into Moroccan Artistry: We’ll also explore the Attarine Museum, a beautifully restored madrasa adorned with elaborate cedarwood carvings and zellij tilework.nnMoulay Idriss Mausoleum – The Spiritual Heart of Fes: Our day ends with a visit to the Moulay Idriss Mausoleum, the resting place of the founder of Fes. The stunning courtyard and peaceful surroundings make it a must-see landmark.
Leaving Fes – Drive Through the Middle Atlas: We’ll start early as we leave Fes and head south through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing through a mix of mountain villages, forests, and valleys.nnStop in Ifrane: Our first stop is Ifrane, a clean and quiet town with chalet-style buildings, often called “Little Switzerland.”nnWalk in the Azrou Cedar Forest: Next, we’ll pass through the Azrou Cedar Forest. We’ll stop here for a short walk and a chance to see Barbary apes in their natural habitat.nnLunch in Midelt and Visit a Fossil Market: We’ll break for lunch in Midelt, a town between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. It’s also a good place to browse the local fossil shops.nnDrive Through the Ziz Valley and Erfoud: After lunch, we’ll drive through the Ziz Valley, an area full of date palm groves and rocky cliffs. We’ll continue on to Erfoud, a town known for its fossil and date industries.nnArrival in Merzouga: By late afternoon, we’ll reach Merzouga. You’ll check into a hotel near the dunes and rest for the night.
Visit Khamlia Village – Home of Gnawa Music: We begin the day in Khamlia, a small village where we’ll be welcomed by locals performing Gnawa music. This traditional style reflects the village’s West African roots.nnMeet a Nomadic Berber Family: Next, we’ll head off-road into the desert to meet a Berber nomad family. We’ll sit with them over a cup of tea and get a firsthand look at how they live in such a remote and dry environment.nnLunch with Local Flavor – Traditional Berber Pizza: We’ll stop for lunch nearby and try Madfouna, often called Berber pizza. It’s a round, stuffed flatbread baked over coals, filled with ground meat, onions, herbs, and spices.nnCamel Trek into the Erg Chebbi Dunes: In the late afternoon, we’ll meet our camel caravan. Guided by local handlers, we’ll ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes, the tallest sand dunes in Morocco. The ride offers wide desert views, especially beautiful as the sun begins to set.nnOvernight in the Desert – Dinner and Camp: By sunset, we’ll arrive at the desert camp. After checking into your private tent, you’ll have a warm Moroccan dinner. Later, you can enjoy live drumming around the campfire or simply relax under the stars.
Sunrise Over the Sahara and Farewell to the Dunes: We’ll start the day early to catch the sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After a quick photo opportunity, we’ll have breakfast at the desert camp before packing up and heading out.nnExploring a Traditional Market in Rissani: Our first stop is Rissani, a historic town with an active local market. We’ll walk through the souk where you’ll find spices, dates, and handmade goods.nnMarvel at the Towering Todgha Gorges: Next, we’ll drive to the Todgha Gorges. These are tall limestone cliffs, nearly 300 meters high, shaped by natural erosion over time. There’s a path along the riverbed where you can take a short walk.nnScenic Drive Through the Dades Valley: From there, we continue along the scenic Dades Valley. The drive passes old kasbahs, green farmland, and strange rock shapes, like the well-known “Monkey Toes.”nnOvernight in Dades: We’ll end the day at a local guesthouse in the Dades Valley. Enjoy a delicious homemade dinner and rest in the peaceful surroundings.
Morning Drive Through the Stunning Dades Valley: We begin the day driving through the Dades Valley. The road winds past rock formations, ancient kasbahs, and small Berber villages. This stretch is often called the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs.”nnExplore The Fragrant Rose Valley in Kalaa M’gouna: Our next stop is Kalaa M’gouna, famous for its vast rose fields and annual Rose Festival. Visit local shops where you can purchase rose-infused beauty products, perfumes, and oils, all made from the region’s valuable Damask roses.nnVisit Skoura Oasis – A Hidden Green Paradise: We continue to Skoura, a quiet oasis full of palm trees and farmland. Here we’ll visit Kasbah Amridil, a well-preserved historic kasbah that offers insight into traditional Berber architecture.nnExplore Ouarzazate’s Vast Cultural History: We then reach Ouarzazate, a major film location in Morocco. We’ll stop at the Taourirt Kasbah and pass by the nearby film studios where movies like Gladiator and scenes from Game of Thrones were shot.nnNight Stay in a Traditional Riad or Hotel: After a full day of travel and sightseeing, you’ll check into a local riad or hotel for the night.
Exploring the Ancient Ait Benhaddou Kasbah: We’ll begin our day with a visit to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO-listed fortified village that has stood for centuries. Here, you will learn about its rich cultural history and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.nnScenic Drive Through the High Atlas Mountains: Leaving Ait Benhaddou, we’ll go on a breathtaking journey right through the High Atlas Mountains and the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), the highest in Morocco. Capture photos of beautiful viewpoints along the way.nnArrival in the Vibrant City of Marrakech: By afternoon, we’ll reach the bustling city of Marrakech. Settle into a charming Riad in the heart of the Medina. Spend the evening relaxing or exploring the lively streets.
Explore the Historic Koutoubia Mosque: We will begin our day at the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest and most famous mosque in Marrakech. You can still stroll around its beautifully landscaped gardens.nnStep Back in Time at the Saadian Tombs: Our journey through Marrakech’s history continues with a visit to the Saadian Tombs, the final resting place of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur and his dynasty. These tombs are adorned with elaborate tilework, intricate carvings, and stunning domed ceilings.nnWander Through the Opulent Bahia Palace: Next, we’ll explore the Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. This grand palace boasts lavish courtyards, painted ceilings, and serene gardens, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Moroccan elite.nnExperience the Energy of Djemaa el Fna Square: At the heart of Marrakech lies Djemaa el Fna, a lively square brimming with street performers, storytellers, musicians, and market vendors. The variety of local street food makes it a great place to grab a bite.nnGet Lost in the Bustling Traditional Souks: Marrakech is famous for its twisting souks, where artisans sell everything from handwoven rugs and leather goods to fragrant spices.nnRelax in the Tranquil Majorelle Garden: We’ll then escape the city’s chaos with a visit to the Majorelle Garden, a peaceful botanical haven designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle.nnOvernight Stay in a Traditional Riad: After a full day of exploration, relax in a traditional Riad with authentic Moroccan hospitality.
Breakfast and Checkout at the Riad: Enjoy a final breakfast at your Riad, soaking in the last moments of Marrakech’s charm. If time allows, take a short stroll or pick up a last-minute souvenir before checking out.nnTransfer to the Airport: You’ll be transferred to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure. With unforgettable memories of Morocco, it’s time to say bslama (goodbye)! Safe travels!
