12-Day Private Tour from Tangier to Marrakech in Morocco

Discover the magic of Morocco on this immersive 12-day journey, starting in Tangier in the north and ending in Marrakech in the south. This tour combines enriching cultural experiences with spectacular landscapes, from the tranquil blue streets of Chefchaouen to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, the bustling medinas of Fez, and the dramatic dunes of the Sahara Desert. You’ll traverse the Rif Mountains, the sands of the desert, and the peaks of the Atlas Mountains as you discover Morocco’s heritage, traditions, and natural wonders.

• Scenic tours through the Rif and Atlas Mountains with breathtaking viewpoints.
• Explore the famous blue alleys and medina of Chefchaouen.
• Visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes.
• Guided tour of the medina of Fez, craft workshops, and historical monuments.
• Encounter with Barbary macaques in the cedar forests of Azrou.
• Camel ride, desert camp stay, and sandboarding in Merzouga.
• Watch the sunrise and sunset over the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi.
• Stroll along the cliffs of the Todra Gorges and explore the Dades Valley.
• Visit the kasbahs of Ouarzazate and the ksar of Aït Ben Haddou, a World Heritage Site.
• Guided tour of Marrakech: monuments, souks, and gardens.
• Day trip to Essaouira, on the Atlantic coast of Morocco.
• Tour of Casablanca, Rabat, and the picturesque coastal town of Asilah.

Day 1: Arrival in Tangier

Upon arrival at the airport or port of Tangier, your driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Known as the “Gateway to Africa,” Tangier offers a blend of cultures and history. Free day: stroll along the Corniche, enjoy a Moroccan mint tea in a café, or wander through the narrow streets of the medina.

Day 2: Tangier → Chefchaouen

After breakfast, drive through the picturesque Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen, Morocco’s “Blue Pearl.” Explore its narrow blue-painted streets, visit Uta el-Hammam Square, and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere near the Ras El Ma spring. Free afternoon and evening at your charming riad.

Day 3: Chefchaouen → Volubilis → Meknes → Fez

Depart Chefchaouen for the fertile plains of northern Morocco, stopping at Volubilis to see its remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins, featuring mosaics and ancient temples. Continue to Meknes to admire Bab Mansour, the royal stables, and the old medina. In the afternoon, arrive in Fez and check in for the night.

Day 4: Full Day Exploration of Fez

A local guide will take you around Fez, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. Explore the medina, a World Heritage Site, with its maze of narrow streets, souks, and artisan workshops. Visit the gates of the Royal Palace, Al-Qarawiyyin University, and the traditional leather tanneries. Lunch at a local restaurant and more exploration of hidden courtyards and bustling markets.

Day 5: Fez → Ifrane → Azrou → Midelt → Merzouga

Travel south through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland” for its European architecture. Continue to the cedar forests of Azrou to see Barbary macaques in the wild. After lunch in Midelt, descend into the Ziz Valley with its palm groves and kasbahs. Arrive in Merzouga and take a camel ride through the dunes of Erg Chebbi, ending with a sunset in the Sahara and accommodation in a desert camp with dinner and music under the stars.

Day 6: Experience in the Merzouga Desert

Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the dunes. Explore more of the desert: visit the village of Khamlia to enjoy Gnawa music, meet nomadic families, and discover fossil fields or seasonal lakes. In the afternoon, enjoy sandboarding or relax in the dunes. At sunset, ride a camel to the camp for dinner, stargazing, and Berber entertainment.

Day 7: Merzouga → Rissani → Todra Gorges → Dades Valley

Return by camel to Merzouga for breakfast and to freshen up. Travel to Rissani, known for its historic markets, then continue to the Todra Gorges, where cliffs rise dramatically above a small river. Walk through the canyon and take photos before continuing to the Dades Valley, famous for its peculiar “monkey finger” rock formations. Overnight in traditional accommodation.

Day 8: Dades Valley → Ouarzazate → Aït Ben Haddou → Marrakech

Drive along the “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs,” dotted with villages and oases. Stop in Ouarzazate, Morocco’s film capital, and continue on to Aït Ben Haddou, a World Heritage Site ksar with historic streets and towers. Cross the High Atlas via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, arriving in Marrakech in the afternoon.

Day 9: Day Trip to Essaouira

Travel to the Atlantic coast to visit Essaouira, a charming port with white walls, a vibrant medina, and an artistic vibe. Explore the port, tour the Skala fortress, and discover argan oil cooperatives. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch before returning to Marrakech in the afternoon.

Day 10: Guided Tour of Marrakech

Explore the treasures of Marrakech with a guide: Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, and Bahia Palace. Stroll through colorful souks and artisan neighborhoods, and visit the Majorelle Gardens. End the day at Jemaa el-Fna Square, where street performers, storytellers, and food stalls create a lively spectacle.

Day 11: Marrakech → Casablanca → Rabat

Departure northbound. Stop in Casablanca to admire the majestic Hassan II Mosque next to the Atlantic Ocean. Continue to Rabat, the capital, to visit the Royal Palace, Hassan Tower, and the Kasbah of the Oudayas. Overnight in Rabat.

Day 12: Rabat → Asilah → Tangier (Departure)

Drive along the Atlantic coast to the picturesque town of Asilah, known for its colorful murals and tranquil medina. After a stroll, continue to Tangier for your departure. Depending on your schedule, there may be time for final visits before transfer to the airport or port. End of the 12-Day Private Tour from Tangier to Marrakech in Morocco.