Day 1: Tangier – Chefchaouen – Fes

8-Day Desert Trip from Tangier to Marrakech​ departure: Begin your journey in Tangier, traveling through the Rif Mountains to reach Chefchaouen, the “Blue City.” Explore its blue-washed medina, vibrant squares, and artisan shops.

After lunch in Chefchaouen, continue to Fes, Morocco’s cultural and spiritual capital. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a traditional riad.

Day 2: Fes Guided Tour

Spend the day exploring Fes, with a local guide. Visit the UNESCO-listed Medina, the Al Quaraouiyine University, Bou Inania Madrasa, Chouara Tannery, and the Jewish Quarter (Mellah). Stroll through the bustling souks and learn about the city’s rich history. Dinner and overnight in Fes.

Day 3: Fes – Ifrane – Cedar Forest – Midelt – Merzouga (Erg Chebbi Dunes)

Leave Fes and travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping at Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” and the Cedar Forest near Azrou, where Barbary macaques roam. Continue through Berber villages to Midelt, where you’ll stop for lunch.

In the afternoon, drive through the lush Ziz Valley, with its palm groves and dramatic gorges, before arriving in Merzouga, at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Dinner and overnight in a desert riad or hotel.

Day 4: Merzouga – Camel Trek – Desert Camp

Spend the day exploring the Merzouga Desert. Visit Khamlia, a village known for its Gnawa music, and learn about the Berber nomadic lifestyle. Optional activities include sandboarding, quad biking, or a 4×4 tour of the dunes.

In the late afternoon, embark on a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, arriving at your desert camp as the sun sets. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, Berber drumming, and stargazing under the clear desert sky. Overnight in a standard or luxury desert camp.

Day 5: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley

Wake early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast. Return to Merzouga on camels or by 4×4, then visit Rissani, a historic trading town known for its souks and ancient architecture.

Continue to Todra Gorge, where towering limestone cliffs rise above a river. Take a short walk through the gorge, then head to the Dades Valley, known for its “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.” Dinner and overnight stay in a guesthouse or hotel in the valley.

Day 6: Dades Valley – Valley of Roses – Ouarzazate – Aït Benhaddou

After breakfast, drive through the Dades Valley and the fragrant Valley of Roses, famous for its rosewater products. Continue to Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Morocco,” to visit the Taourirt Kasbah or the Atlas Film Studios.

Later, explore the UNESCO-listed Aït Benhaddou, a stunning ksar and filming location for movies like Gladiator. Dinner and overnight stay in a riad near Aït Benhaddou.

Day 7: Aït Benhaddou – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech

After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of Aït Benhaddou, learning about its unique mudbrick architecture. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, stopping for photos at scenic viewpoints. Arrive in Marrakech, where you’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a traditional riad.

Day 8: Marrakech Guided Tour

Explore the vibrant city of Marrakech with a local guide. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and the serene Majorelle Garden. Wander through the lively Medina and experience the bustling energy of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, filled with performers, food stalls, and artisans. After your tour, the trip concludes in Marrakech.