Morocco Desert Tour

10 Days from Tangier to Tangier

Tangier Tangier
Duration 10 Days 9 Nights
Departure Tangier
Transport Private
Travel Style Private Tour

Discover an unforgettable 10-day Morocco journey from Tangier and back to Tangier, combining Morocco’s northern cities, imperial heritage, the Sahara Desert, dramatic valleys, and the famous landscapes of southern Morocco. This private tour takes you from Tangier to Chefchaouen, Volubilis, Meknes, Fes, Merzouga, the Dades Gorges, Ouarzazate, Ait Ben Haddou, Marrakech, and Essaouira before returning to Tangier. Enjoy comfortable private transportation, authentic cultural experiences, spectacular landscapes, and unforgettable nights in Morocco’s most remarkable destinations.

10 Days from Tangier to Tangier

Day 1: Tangier Arrival and Tangier Exploration

Your 10-day Morocco tour begins in Tangier, the gateway between Europe and Morocco. Depending on your arrival time, meet your private driver and begin discovering this fascinating northern city. Explore the historic medina, the Kasbah, the Grand Socco, and the old streets overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar. Tangier has a unique atmosphere shaped by its position between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. You can also visit Cap Spartel and the nearby Hercules Caves if time allows. Enjoy your first Moroccan evening in Tangier and relax at your accommodation after your journey. Overnight in Tangier.

Day 2: Tangier to Chefchaouen and Fes

After breakfast, leave Tangier and travel toward the beautiful Rif Mountains. Your first major stop is Chefchaouen, the famous Blue City of Morocco. Enjoy a walking tour through its blue-painted streets, small squares, local markets, and traditional houses. Continue through the Rif landscapes toward the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Explore the archaeological site and discover its impressive mosaics, columns, and remains of Roman settlements. Continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, where you can see the historic gates and old medina. In the afternoon, continue to Fes and check into your accommodation. Overnight in Fes.

Day 3: Guided Tour of Fes

Today is dedicated to discovering Fes with a local guide. Explore the historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage area known for its narrow streets, traditional workshops, souks, and remarkable architecture. Visit important cultural sites and discover the famous tanneries, traditional craft workshops, historic madrasas, and bustling markets. Continue through the old city and learn about the history of Fes, one of Morocco’s most important cultural and spiritual centers. In the afternoon, explore the newer part of the city and enjoy some free time. Return to your accommodation for the evening. Overnight in Fes.

Day 4: Fes to Merzouga via Midelt and Ziz Valley

Depart Fes early and begin your journey toward the Sahara Desert. Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains and stop in Ifrane, known for its pleasant mountain setting and distinctive architecture. Continue through the cedar forests around Azrou before reaching Midelt, where you can enjoy a lunch break. The road then crosses spectacular mountain landscapes toward the Ziz Valley. Stop at a panoramic viewpoint to admire the green palm oasis surrounded by dramatic rocky scenery. Continue through Erfoud, famous for fossils and dates, before reaching Merzouga in the afternoon. Prepare for your camel trek across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes. Watch the sunset from the dunes before reaching your desert camp. Enjoy dinner, traditional music, and a magical night beneath the Sahara sky. Overnight in a desert camp in Merzouga.

Day 5: Merzouga Desert Experience

Wake early to enjoy the sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast, explore the Merzouga desert region by private vehicle. Visit nearby villages and discover local traditions and desert landscapes. You may also visit the seasonal lake near Merzouga, depending on water levels. Continue toward traditional desert communities and learn about the cultural heritage of the Sahara. Return to the dunes and enjoy free time to relax and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the desert. In the afternoon, enjoy another opportunity to admire the golden dunes as the light changes across the Sahara. Spend a second night in the Merzouga area and enjoy dinner at your accommodation or desert camp. Overnight in Merzouga.

Day 6: Merzouga to Dades Gorges

After breakfast, leave Merzouga and travel through the fascinating landscapes of southeastern Morocco. Continue toward Rissani and the historic caravan routes that once connected the Sahara with northern Morocco. Travel through the Todra Valley and admire the changing landscapes as the desert gradually gives way to dramatic mountains. Depending on your interests and timing, stop near the Todra Gorges to enjoy the spectacular rock formations. Continue toward the Dades Valley and visit the famous Dades Gorges. The road passes through colorful valleys, traditional villages, and impressive mountain scenery. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the region and spend the night near the Dades Gorges. Overnight in Dades.

Day 7: Dades Gorges to Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou

After breakfast, continue through the Valley of Roses and the Route of a Thousand Kasbahs. Enjoy scenic stops among traditional mud-brick villages and kasbahs before reaching Ouarzazate. Known as the gateway to the Sahara and a popular filming location, Ouarzazate offers a fascinating combination of desert landscapes and cinematic history. Continue to Ait Ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s most famous fortified villages and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through its historic lanes and admire the traditional architecture. Continue toward the High Atlas Mountains and cross the Tizi n’Tichka pass before arriving in Marrakech. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 8: Guided Tour of Marrakech

Today you discover Marrakech with a local guide. Explore the historic medina, colorful souks, traditional architecture, and famous landmarks. Visit the Bahia Palace, the Koutoubia area, and the old city streets before continuing toward the lively Jemaa el-Fna square. Discover the atmosphere of Marrakech and learn about its history and traditions. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore the souks, shop for local products, or relax at your accommodation. Marrakech combines historic monuments, gardens, markets, and modern Moroccan culture, making it one of the country’s most fascinating destinations. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 9: Marrakech to Essaouira

After breakfast, leave Marrakech and travel toward the Atlantic coast. Arrive in Essaouira, a charming coastal town famous for its white-and-blue architecture, historic medina, fishing harbor, and relaxed atmosphere. Explore the old medina and walk along the historic ramparts overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Visit the lively harbor and enjoy fresh local seafood if desired. Essaouira is also known for its artistic atmosphere, traditional crafts, and pleasant coastal scenery. Spend the afternoon enjoying the beach, exploring the small streets, or relaxing in one of the town’s cafés. After discovering Essaouira, return toward Marrakech for the evening. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 10: Marrakech to Tangier

After breakfast, begin the final journey from Marrakech back to Tangier. The route crosses several regions of Morocco and offers a final opportunity to enjoy the changing landscapes. Depending on your departure schedule, you can make short stops along the way. Your private driver will take you comfortably toward Tangier, where your 10-day Morocco adventure comes to an end. You will arrive in Tangier according to your planned schedule, ready for your onward journey or departure from Morocco. This private itinerary can also be adapted according to your flight, ferry, accommodation, and travel preferences.

Included

  • Private transportation with a professional driver
  • Private airport, port, or hotel transfers
  • Accommodation for 9 nights
  • 2 nights in the Merzouga desert area
  • 1 night in Dades
  • Breakfast during the tour
  • Camel trek in the Erg Chebbi dunes
  • Desert camp experience
  • Local guided tour of Fes
  • Local guided tour of Marrakech
  • Visits and stops according to the itinerary

Excluded

  • Lunches and dinners except where specified
  • Drinks
  • Entrance fees to monuments and attractions
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Optional activities

FAQs