NORTHERN MOROCCO AND SAHARA DESERT ADVENTURE
This 12-day journey through Northern Morocco and the Sahara Desert, where history, culture, and stunning landscapes await. Starting in Tangier, you’ll explore the blue city of Chefchaouen, wander through Fez’s ancient medina, and visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Volubilis. Journey through the Atlas Mountains and the expansive desert landscapes of Merzouga, where camel trekking and a night under the stars in the Sahara provide unforgettable experiences. Continue through scenic valleys, traditional kasbahs, and the vibrant film city of Ouarzazate before heading to the iconic Ait Benhaddou and Marrakech. With cultural tours, stunning views, and a deep dive into Morocco’s rich heritage, this tour is the ultimate Moroccan adventure.
DAY 1: TANGIER
Arrive in Tangier and meet your English-speaking driver who will transfer you to your hotel/ riad. The latter will brief you about your Morocco experience and tour. If you arrive early, try to have a feel of this vibrant city.
DAY 2: TANGIER- CHEFCHAOUEN
Start you day with a visit of the Kasbah facing the old port, then dive into the Medina. You can also visit the Hercules cave and stop the Cap Spartel marking where both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea meet. Then after lunch, travel to blue city Chefchaouen through the scenic Rif mountains.
DAY 3: CHEFCHAOUEN
Explore the blue city of Chefchaouen with its famous and beautiful walled Kasbah and its gardens. From the rooftop, enjoy the view of the blue washed houses. Then, go to enjoy the beautiful secrets of its winging streets.
DAY 4: CHEFCHAOUEN- VOLUBILIS- MEKNES- FEZ
Today, on Your Morocco Experience, you will drive to the smallest and less visited Imperial City of Meknes. Your guide will take you to Bab El Mansour, considered as the biggest gate of all North Africa, then the Royal Stables and Granaries and the tomb of Moulay Ismail. You will drive about half an hour to get to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a fascinating archeological site with the remainings of ancient homes, buildings and olive presses, not to miss the fabulous mosaics still well preserved. Nearby, you can stop at the holy village called Moulay Idriss Zarhoun of Moulay Idriss,before continuing to Fez, Morocco’s spiritual capital.
DAY 5: FEZ
Start with an exterior driving tour of Fez that takes you to the royal palace decorated entrance and the Jewish quarter both located at Fez El Jadid, then continue to the panoramic view of the medina and finally visit the mosaics and pottery area.
Fez walking tour will take you back in time to explore the secrets of this enchanting city, the capital of medieval Morocco. Fez medina is a large labyrinth of winding alleys. It’s famous for its fascinating architecture in riads, palaces, museums and medersas; but also for its busy souks and ancestral crafts areas.
Traditionally, the exploration of the medina starts at the Bab Boujloud Gate, also known as the Blue Gate. Then one of the mid-14th century medersa, with its cedar woodwork, its sculptured stucco, marble and beautiful calligraphy. Then, stop, at the carpenters’ souk, wood museum and the beautiful famous Nejjarine fountain. Then walk to the ancient sovereign Moulay Idriss shrine and the Karawiyine Mosque (the oldest university in the history of mankind).
You will move on further to Seffarine (the brass and copper working area) then the dyers of materials for textiles. Another main attraction is the tanneries.
DAY 6: FEZ- MERZOUGA
Enjoy a long, but beautiful, travel day across the unique landscapes of Morocco to get to the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert. On the way, stop in Ifrane town (Morocco’s Little Switzerland) famous for its European style of architecture and its sky station.
A short drive south from Ifrane, and always within Ifrane National Park- takes you to Azrou – known for its lush cedar forests. You can stop here for a scenic walk through the woods, where you’ll often spot Barbary apes (monkeys).
In the Heart of the Middle Atlas Midelt is a town located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
As you drive through the Tafilalt region, you’ll pass the Ziz Valley, known for its dramatic gorges and vast palm oases. The road offers breathtaking views of the green oasis against the backdrop of the Sahara’s sandy dunes.Stop at several viewpoints along the way for stunning panoramic views of the valley, which is lush with palm groves and irrigated fields.
As you drive further, you will get to Erfoud – known for its fossil-rich surroundings. It is also home to several beautiful kasbahs (fortified structures), showcasing traditional Berber architecture.
DAY 7: MERZOUGA
Your final destination, Merzouga, is famous for the Erg Chebbi dunes, the vast, towering sand dunes that are iconic of the Sahara. This is the ultimate place to experience camel trekking, watch sunrises and sunsets, and immerse yourself in the desert environment.
Overnight in a Desert Camp: Spend a night under the stars in a desert camp, enjoying Berber music, traditional food, and an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Sahara.
DAY 8: MERZOUGA/ TODRA GORGE/ DADES VALLEY
Travel through the Dades Valley, often referred to as the Valley of the Roses, known for its scenic beauty and rose cultivation. Stop in the valley to explore the local villages, walk through lush palm groves, and visit a traditional Berber house. Later, visit the Rose Valley before heading to your hotel in the area for the night.
DAY 9: DADES VALLEY- OUARZAZATE
After breakfast, head towards Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Desert.” Visit the famous Kasbah Taourirt and explore the Atlas Film Studios, known for their use in Hollywood blockbusters. Overnight in Ouarzazate.
DAY 10: OUARZAZATE- AIT BENHADDOU- MARRAKECH
This morning, head to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its dramatic adobe kasbahs. Wander through this ancient fortified village, which has appeared in numerous films. Then, travel to Marrakech across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and valleys.
As you descend, you’ll reach Marrakech, one of Morocco’s most vibrant cities. Upon arrival, you can unwind and enjoy a free evening exploring the city’s lively Djemaa el-Fna square, with its street performers, food stalls, and markets.
DAY 11: MARRAKECH CITY TOUR
Embark on a guided tour of Marrakech, visiting the iconic Jardin Majorelle, the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs, and the Bahia Palace. Don’t forget to explore the vibrant souks where you can purchase spices, textiles, and traditional crafts as souvenirs. In the evening, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Morocco.
DAY 12: DEPARTURE FROM MARRAKECH OR CASABLANCA
This 12-day tour captures the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Morocco, from bustling cities to the vast Sahara, ensuring you experience the best of this captivating country.
