8-Day Journey from Tangier to Marrakech: Exploring Morocco's Rich Heritage and Scenic Beauty
Tour Overview
Conducting initial research on flights from your nearest airport can help you find the most cost-effective options for arriving in and departing from Morocco. Our tours are highly flexible and can start from any city that fits your schedule.
Day 1: Arrival in Tangier
Upon arrival at Tangier Port or Tangier Airport, you will be greeted by your English-speaking driver and guide. Start your exploration of Tangier by visiting the Dar el Makhzen, the former Sultan’s palace, now home to a fascinating museum of Moroccan history. Continue to the American Legation Museum, housed in the former U.S. consulate, where you’ll learn about diplomatic relations between Morocco and the United States dating back to 1821. Next, enjoy a visit to the Hercules Caves, where you’ll see a natural formation resembling the African continent. From here, you will head to the Kasbah Museum, located in a 17th-century palace surrounded by beautiful Andalusian gardens. After a full day of sightseeing, check in for your overnight stay in Tangier.
Day 2: Tangier → Chefchaouen
Today, embark on a scenic drive from Tangier to Chefchaouen, passing through the rugged Rif Mountains. Chefchaouen is famous for its striking blue-washed buildings and serene atmosphere. Begin your tour of the city at Place Outa el Hammam, the main square, and explore the Kasbah, a 15th-century fortress that houses an ethnographic museum and provides panoramic views of the town. Don’t miss the octagonal minaret of the Kasbah mosque, which is one of the city’s most recognizable features. Enjoy free time to stroll through the narrow streets and discover local artisan shops selling textiles, pottery, and jewelry. The night is yours to explore at leisure, followed by an overnight stay in Chefchaouen.
Day 3: Chefchaouen → Meknes → Volubilis → Fes
After breakfast, depart for Fes. Your first stop will be Volubilis, an ancient Roman city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll walk through well-preserved ruins, including stunning mosaics, temples, and the grand arch of Carthage. Continue to Meknes, another of Morocco’s imperial cities, renowned for its historic gates and royal palaces. Visit the monumental Bab Mansour Gate, one of the grandest in Morocco, and explore the lush Moulay Ismail Mausoleum. After your visit, continue your journey to Fes, the cultural heart of Morocco.
Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to relax or explore the city’s vibrant medina before checking into your hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Full-Day Guided Tour of Fes
Today, delve deep into the history and architecture of Fes with a local guide. Start with a visit to Madrasa El Bouinania, a stunning example of Marinid architecture, and learn about its historical significance. Next, visit the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University, the oldest continuously operating university in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the bustling Nejjarine Square, home to intricately decorated fountains and artisan workshops, and then make your way to the Pottery Village where local craftsmen create beautiful ceramics. The afternoon includes visits to the South Tower and the King’s Palace, showcasing stunning Moroccan architecture. Enjoy some free time to wander the winding alleys of the medina and shop for handmade crafts. Overnight in Fes.
Day 5: Fes → Ifrane → Merzouga
After an early breakfast, begin your journey toward the Merzouga Desert, passing through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane, known for its alpine-style architecture and cool climate, often referred to as “Little Switzerland.” Continue through the Cedar Forests of Azrou, a natural habitat for the endangered Barbary macaques. Continue your journey through Midelt and the dramatic Ziz Valley, with its palm oases and mountain passes, before reaching Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Enjoy a camel ride into the desert to witness a breathtaking sunset over the dunes. Arrive at your desert camp for a traditional Moroccan dinner, followed by a night of Berber music and star-gazing. Overnight in your private tent under the desert sky.
Day 6: Merzouga → Boumalne Dades
Rise early to witness the magical desert sunrise as the light transforms the dunes into shades of gold and orange. After breakfast, depart for Boumalne Dades. Your first stop will be the town of Tinghir, located near the majestic Todgha Gorge. Here, you can walk through the narrow canyon, where the towering rock walls rise up to 300 meters on either side, making for dramatic photo opportunities. Continue your journey through the Skoura Oasis, known for its palm groves and historic kasbahs. In Boumalne Dades, enjoy the scenic views of the Dades Valley and check into your accommodation for a restful night.
Day 7: Boumalne Dades → Skoura → Ouarzazate → Ait Ben Haddou → Marrakech
This morning, drive through the Valley of the Roses, an area famous for its rosewater products, especially during the spring. Stop in Skoura to visit the Amridil Kasbah, a 17th-century fortified village that provides a glimpse into traditional kasbah life. Continue your journey towards Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Morocco." Visit Atlas Studios, where iconic movies like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia were filmed. From here, continue to Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning example of Moroccan earthen architecture. Wander through this ancient fortified village, which has been used as the backdrop for numerous films. Continue over the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, with panoramic views of the High Atlas Mountains, before arriving in Marrakech by early evening. Check into your hotel for the night.
Day 8: Marrakech → Casablanca Airport Transfer
After breakfast, your guide will take you on a brief tour of Marrakech, where you can explore the famous Jemaa el-Fna Square, the Koutoubia Mosque, and the Saadian Tombs. Depending on your flight time, you may also visit the Bahia Palace and stroll through the colorful Majorelle Garden. Later, transfer to Casablanca or Marrakech Airport for your departure, marking the end of your unforgettable Moroccan adventure.
What’s Included
- Private transport (4WD or Mini van)
- English-speaking tour driver
- Local guide in Volubilis
- Local guide in Fes
- Accommodations (Nights x 7)
- Breakfasts (Daily)
What’s Not Included
- Entry fees to historical sites
- Lunch & Dinner
- Beverages