10 Days Tour from Tangier to the Sahara Desert and Imperial Cities

Your tour begins in Tangier, the gateway between Africa and Europe. After meeting your driver, you’ll travel through the beautiful Rif Mountains towards the enchanting Chefchaouen, also known as the “Blue Pearl” of Morocco. Along the way, enjoy the stunning mountain scenery and stop for panoramic views. Once in Chefchaouen, stroll through its charming medina with blue-painted walls, explore the lively square of Outa el Hammam, and relax in one of the traditional cafés. Overnight in a local riad in Chefchaouen.

After breakfast, you’ll head south towards the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its mosaics and archaeological remains. After exploring this impressive site, continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities. Visit the monumental Bab Mansour Gate, the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, and the El Hedim Square, before heading to Fes, the country’s oldest spiritual and cultural capital. Arrive in Fes by evening and settle into your riad located in the heart of the medina.

Today is dedicated to discovering Fes, the intellectual and religious heart of Morocco. With a local guide, you’ll explore the labyrinthine medina of Fes el-Bali, one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the world. Visit the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the Bou Inania Madrasa, and the famous Chouara Tanneries, where leather is still dyed using ancient techniques. Wander through narrow alleys lined with workshops, spice markets, and traditional artisans. In the afternoon, enjoy panoramic views from the Marinid Tombs overlooking the city before returning to your riad.

Depart early from Fes and drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, enjoying a scenic route filled with cedar forests, green valleys, and Berber villages. Stop in Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its alpine architecture, and in Azrou, where you may see Barbary macaques in the cedar forest. Continue through Midelt and along the spectacular Ziz Valley, famous for its palm groves and date farms. In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, at the edge of the Sahara Desert. Here, you’ll ride your camel across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi to your luxury desert camp. Enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars, followed by Berber music and drumming around the campfire.

Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, one of the highlights of the trip. After breakfast, you’ll spend the day exploring the desert region. Visit the village of Khamlia, home to the Gnawa musicians known for their spiritual rhythms, meet nomadic families in the desert to learn about their lifestyle, and explore the fossil fields near Erfoud. In the afternoon, you can try sandboarding, ride ATVs (optional), or simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of the Sahara. Dinner and overnight in the desert camp or at your riad near the dunes.

After breakfast, leave the desert behind and travel through a landscape of palm oases and small Berber villages. Stop in Tinghir to visit the spectacular Todra Gorges, where the towering cliffs reach heights of over 300 meters. Take a short walk through the canyon to appreciate its beauty. Continue your journey along the Dades Valley, known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” where ancient fortresses and lush fields create a magical view. Arrive in the Dades Gorge for dinner and overnight in a charming hotel or kasbah.

After breakfas, continue towards Ouarzazate, where many famous films have been shot. Visit the Kasbah of Taourirt before continuing to the legendary Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-listed ksar that has appeared in movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Explore the old fortress village and then cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m), enjoying breathtaking views and Berber villages along the way. Arrive in Marrakech by evening and check into your riad.

Today, discover the wonders of Marrakech, known as the “Red City.” Accompanied by a local guide, visit the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and the vibrant Jemaa el-Fna Square, where snake charmers, storytellers, and street performers create a lively atmosphere. Explore the colorful souks full of spices, textiles, and handicrafts, and stroll through the Majorelle Garden, a peaceful oasis designed by the French painter Jacques Majorelle. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner or relax at your riad.

After breakfast, depart for Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and economic center. Visit the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world and a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture. Continue to Rabat, the elegant capital of Morocco. Visit key sites such as the Royal Palace, the Hassan Tower, and the Kasbah of the Udayas, before checking into your riad for the night.

On the final day, enjoy a scenic drive along the Atlantic coast. Stop in Asilah, a small whitewashed coastal town known for its artistic murals and peaceful atmosphere. Stroll through the medina and enjoy some free time before continuing to Tangier, where your 10-day adventure comes to an end. Drop-off at your accommodation, port, or airport.