This 10-day tour from Tangier to Marrakech is a classic circuit that captures the essence of Northern Morocco. The journey seamlessly blends history, culture, and dramatic landscapes. You’ll explore the blue alleyways of Chefchaouen, step back in time at Roman ruins and imperial cities, get lost in the ancient medina of Fes, and experience the magic of the Sahara Desert with a camel trek and camp stay. The return route takes you through stunning gorges, fertile valleys, and across the High Atlas Mountains, culminating in the vibrant energy of Marrakech.
Your Moroccan adventure begins with a greeting in Tangier. We immediately set off on a scenic drive into the majestic Rif Mountains. Your destination is the breathtaking “Blue Pearl,” Chefchaouen, where you’ll have the afternoon free to start exploring its iconic blue-washed alleyways and serene atmosphere.
Journey from the mountains to the plains. Our first stop is the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, a UNESCO site with remarkably preserved mosaics. Next, we explore the imperial city of Meknes, home to the colossal Bab el-Mansour gate. We arrive by evening in the cultural heart of Fes.
An expert local guide unlocks the secrets of the Fes medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the Royal Palace gates, the historic Jewish Mellah, the famous Chouara Tanneries, and the ancient Al-Qarawiyyin University, immersing you in the city’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
We travel south, crossing the Middle Atlas Mountains. We pass through the alpine-style town of Ifrane and stop in the Cedar Forest to see Barbary macaques. The landscape transforms as we descend through the vast palm oasis of the Ziz Valley, arriving at the edge of the golden Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga.
Today is dedicated to the magic of the Sahara. We visit the village of Khamlia for a performance of hypnotic Gnawa music and meet nomadic Berber families. The day’s highlight is a camel trek into the heart of the dunes for a breathtaking sunset, followed by a night in a desert camp under the stars.
After a magical desert sunrise, we travel west. We explore the stunning Todra Gorge, walking between its towering canyon walls. We then continue into the dramatic Dades Valley, famous for its surreal “monkey fingers” rock formations, where we will spend the night.
Today’s journey winds through the famous “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs.” We visit the Valley of Roses and the well-preserved Kasbah Amridil. We’ll also have the unique opportunity to meet Berber nomads in their caves before arriving in Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa.”
We visit the legendary Ksar of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and famed film location. After exploring this ancient fortified village, we embark on the spectacular drive across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, arriving by evening in vibrant Marrakech.
A guided tour introduces you to the wonders of Marrakech. Discover the electric energy of Djemaa el-Fna square, delve into the labyrinthine souks, and visit architectural gems like the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs. The tour includes the peaceful Majorelle Garden, offering a tranquil contrast to the medina’s buzz.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure flight, concluding your 10-day journey from the Rif Mountains to the Sahara and home with a treasure trove of memories.
Every traveler is unique. If this itinerary doesn’t perfectly fit your interests, schedule, or travel style, please contact Best Moroccan Tour. We specialize in crafting bespoke journeys. Let us know your dreams, and we will design a personalized tour just for you.
