8 days private tour from Tangier to Marrakech
Discover the best of Morocco on this 8 days private tour from Tangier to Marrakech via the Sahara Desert. Explore Chefchaouen and Fes, cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, experience the golden dunes of Merzouga, visit Todra Gorge and Aït Ben Haddou, and finish your journey in Marrakech.
8 days private tour from Tangier to Marrakech
Day 1: Tangier – Chefchaouen – Fes
Your 8-day Morocco desert tour from Tangier to Marrakech begins with a pickup from your hotel, riad, airport or Tangier Port. Then, leave Tangier and drive through the beautiful Rif Mountains toward Chefchaouen. Along the way, enjoy views of green hills, valleys and traditional mountain villages. Once you arrive in Chefchaouen, take time to explore the famous blue medina. Walk through its narrow streets, discover traditional shops and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this charming mountain town. You can also visit Uta el-Hammam Square and the Kasbah before continuing your journey.
After exploring Chefchaouen, continue toward Fes through the Moroccan countryside. The landscape gradually changes as you travel toward the historic heart of Morocco. Along the way, enjoy photo stops and beautiful countryside views. Upon arrival in Fes, check into your riad or hotel and relax after the journey. Finally, enjoy a quiet evening before discovering the ancient city the next day.
Day 2: Fes Guided Tour
After breakfast, spend the day discovering Fes, one of Morocco’s most fascinating imperial cities. With a local guide, explore the ancient medina of Fes el-Bali and its maze of narrow streets. Walk through traditional souks, artisan workshops and historic neighborhoods while discovering the city’s rich cultural heritage. Along the way, you can see traditional Moroccan crafts, including leather, pottery, carpets, woodwork and metalwork. The famous tanneries are also an important highlight of the visit.
Next, continue exploring the historic medina and visit important architectural and cultural sites. Your guide will explain the history and traditions of Fes while you discover its beautiful madrasas, fountains and old buildings. You will also have time to enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch and explore the souks at your own pace. Later, visit the Royal Palace area and enjoy panoramic views of the old city before returning to your riad for the evening.
Day 3: Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
After breakfast, leave Fes and begin your journey toward the Sahara Desert. First, drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains and stop in Ifrane, a charming mountain town surrounded by forests. Then, continue through the cedar forests and enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel toward Midelt. Along the way, you can see traditional villages and spectacular mountain scenery.
After a break in Midelt, continue through the dramatic Ziz Valley. The landscape becomes increasingly arid as you approach southeastern Morocco. Stop at a panoramic viewpoint to admire the palm-filled valley before continuing toward Erfoud and Merzouga. Finally, arrive at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes. In the afternoon, begin your camel trek into the Sahara and ride across the golden dunes while watching the sunset. Then, reach your desert camp for a traditional dinner, Berber music and a magical night under the stars.
Day 4: Merzouga – Desert Experience – Merzouga
Wake up early to enjoy a spectacular sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast, return to Merzouga and begin a day dedicated to discovering the desert and its surroundings. This slower day allows you to experience the Sahara without spending the entire day driving.
Visit local desert villages and discover the traditions of the communities living around Erg Chebbi. You can also visit a traditional nomadic family and learn about their way of life. Continue to Khamlia village, known for its Gnawa music, and enjoy a traditional musical performance. Later, explore the seasonal lake near Merzouga, depending on the conditions, before returning toward the dunes.
In the afternoon, enjoy free time in Merzouga. You can relax at your accommodation or choose an optional quad or buggy excursion across the dunes. Finally, return to your hotel or desert camp and enjoy another peaceful evening surrounded by the Sahara.
Day 5: Merzouga – Erfoud – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley
After breakfast, leave Merzouga and continue toward the beautiful landscapes of southern Morocco. First, travel through Erfoud, famous for its fossils and traditional stone workshops. Then, continue through the palm-filled oasis landscapes toward the Todra Valley.
Next, arrive at Todra Gorge, one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Morocco. Take time to walk through the narrow canyon and admire the enormous limestone cliffs rising on both sides. The peaceful surroundings and dramatic scenery make this an excellent place for photographs and a short walk.
After visiting the gorge, continue toward the Dades Valley. The road passes through traditional Berber villages, green oases and impressive rock formations. Finally, arrive at your accommodation in the Dades Valley and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Day 6: Dades Valley – Valley of Roses – Ouarzazate – Aït Ben Haddou – Marrakech
After breakfast, leave the Dades Valley and continue toward Marrakech through some of southern Morocco’s most beautiful landscapes. First, drive through the Valley of Roses, known for its rose gardens and traditional cosmetic products. Then, continue through the Skoura oasis, where palm trees and historic kasbahs create a beautiful contrast with the surrounding landscapes.
Next, reach Ouarzazate, often called the gateway to the Sahara. Stop to enjoy the city’s landscapes and, depending on your schedule, visit one of its famous kasbahs or film locations. Afterward, continue to Aït Ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s most famous historic sites.
Explore the fortified ksar and walk through its traditional streets. Then, continue across the High Atlas Mountains through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, enjoy spectacular mountain views and make photo stops. Finally, descend toward Marrakech and arrive in the evening.
Day 7: Marrakech Guided Tour
After breakfast, spend the day discovering Marrakech, the famous Red City. Begin with the historic medina and explore its colorful streets and traditional souks. Visit important landmarks and discover the city’s rich history and Moroccan architecture.
Continue toward the famous Jemaa el-Fna Square, where you can experience the lively atmosphere of the heart of Marrakech. Explore the surrounding souks and discover local handicrafts, spices, textiles and traditional products. You can also enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch and take some time to relax in a local café.
In the afternoon, continue exploring Marrakech at your own pace. Discover more of the historic medina or visit additional attractions depending on your interests. Finally, return to your riad or hotel and enjoy your last evening in Marrakech.
Day 8: Marrakech – Tour Ends
After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Marrakech depending on your departure schedule. You can take a final walk through the medina, visit the souks or enjoy a Moroccan breakfast before leaving the city.
Later, your private driver will transfer you to Marrakech Airport, your hotel or another agreed location. Your 8-day Tangier to Marrakech desert tour ends after an unforgettable journey through Chefchaouen, Fes, the Middle Atlas Mountains, the Merzouga Sahara, Todra Gorge, Dades Valley, Aït Ben Haddou and Marrakech.
Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional driver/guide
- Pickup from Tangier
- Drop-off in Marrakech
- 7 nights accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- 2 desert dinners
- Merzouga camel trek
- Sahara desert camp
- Fes local guide
- Marrakech local guide
- Fuel and transportation expenses
- Sightseeing stops mentioned in the itinerary
Excluded
- Lunches and drinks
- Entrance fees
- Flights
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Quad and buggy activities
- Optional activities
- Extra services
- Anything not mentioned in the included section
Can we start the tour from Tangier Port?
Yes. Pickup can be arranged from Tangier Port, Tangier Airport, your hotel or your riad. The departure time can also be adapted according to your arrival schedule.
Does the tour include Chefchaouen?
Yes. Chefchaouen is included on Day 1. You will have time to explore the famous blue medina, traditional streets and beautiful Rif Mountain surroundings.
Is Fes included in the tour?
Yes. You spend two nights in Fes, including a full guided sightseeing day. You will discover the historic medina, souks, tanneries and traditional artisan areas.
Does the tour include the Sahara Desert?
Yes. The Sahara is the main highlight of the tour. You will visit Merzouga, experience the Erg Chebbi dunes and spend a night at a desert camp.
Is a camel trek included?
Yes. The camel trek is included. You will cross the Erg Chebbi dunes around sunset before reaching the desert camp.
Do we spend two nights in the Sahara?
The itinerary includes a desert experience on Day 4 after your first night in the camp. Depending on the accommodation arrangement, the second desert night can be organized at a camp or a hotel in Merzouga.
Can we do quad biking in Merzouga?
Yes. Quad bikes and buggies can be arranged as optional activities in Merzouga. They are not included in the standard tour price.