Day 1: Tangier, Tetouan, and Chefchaouen
After breakfast, your 7-day desert tour from Tangier to Marrakech begins. The first stop will be Cape Spartel and the Hercules Caves. Then, head to Tetouan to visit its waterfall before continuing to Chefchaouen, the charming “Blue Pearl” with its blue-painted houses. Enjoy exploring its historic Medina and iconic sites such as the Kasbah Museum and Uta El-Hammam Square. Overnight in a hotel or Riad.
Day 2: Chefchaouen, Meknes, and Fez
After breakfast, depart from Chefchaouen, enjoying panoramic views of mountains and villages. Stop at Volubilis to explore the ancient Roman ruins and learn about the Roman Empire. Then, have lunch in Meknes and take a city tour, founded in the 11th century by the Almoravids and later turned into an imperial capital by Moulay Ismail. Visit the old Medina, the majestic Bab Mansour Gate, and Qara Prison. Finally, continue to Fez and stay overnight in a Riad.
Day 3: Fez City Tour
Begin the day exploring Fez, the spiritual center and oldest city in the country. Your tour includes wandering through vibrant souks, winding alleyways, and visiting the impressive Royal Palace Gate, connecting modern Fez with the old city. Discover key cultural and historical sites like the famous Al Quaraouiyine University, the tanneries, and the Attarine Museum. After lunch, explore Fez El Bali (a UNESCO World Heritage site) with its epic Moroccan architecture, including Bab Boujloud (the main Medina gate), a haven for local crafts. In the afternoon, enjoy a drink in the New City. Overnight in a hotel or Riad.
Day 4: Fez, Ifrane, Azrou, Ziz Valley, Erfoud, and Merzouga
Today, head toward Merzouga for the desert portion of the journey. Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane, known as “the Switzerland of Morocco.” Next, visit the Cedar Forest near Azrou to see Barbary monkeys. Along the way, pass by nomads living in tents. Have lunch in Midelt and continue through the Tizi-N-Talghomt Pass, stopping for panoramic views of the Ziz Valley. Pass through Erfoud before reaching Merzouga. Check in at your hotel for the night.
Day 5: Merzouga Desert Tour (Erg Chebbi)
This day is dedicated to experiencing the desert. There are two main activities: a camel ride and a desert excursion. Start by visiting the village of Khamlia, where you can enjoy mint tea while listening to Gnawa music. Also, visit nomad families and the Mifisi mines. Enjoy panoramic views of the desert and explore a seasonal desert lake. Return to the hotel to prepare for a sunset camel ride, including the chance to try sandboarding. The night will be unforgettable, with music and overnight stay in Berber tents under the stars.
Day 6: Merzouga, Todra Gorges, and Dades Valley
After breakfast and a shower, continue to Rissani, where you can explore its lively market for crafts, food, and spices. Then travel through palm groves to Touroug and Tinghir. The next stop is the impressive Todra Gorges, famous for their massive rock walls that attract climbers. Continue to Dades Valley, stopping at the rock formation known as “Monkey Fingers.” Enjoy driving along the winding Tissadrine road before arriving at Dades Valley for dinner and overnight in a Riad.
Day 7: Dades Valley, Skoura, Ouarzazate, and Marrakech
After breakfast, head to the Valley of Roses along the “Route of 100 Kasbahs,” offering plenty of photo opportunities. In the Valley of Roses, visit a local cooperative to learn about rose water and cream production. The harvest is celebrated with a festival in May. Then visit Skoura to see a historic Kasbah and Ouarzazate to explore the Atlas Studios. The highlight of the day will be the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah (UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987), a filming location for movies like Gladiator. Finally, cross the Tizi-N-Tichka Pass in the Atlas Mountains and arrive in Marrakech, concluding your 7-day tour as you are dropped off at your Riad.
