12 Days Absolute Morocco Tour from Tangier

Day 1: Arrival in Tangier – Explore the White City

Welcome to Tangier, the gateway to Africa. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your private driver and begin exploring:

• Visit the historic Kasbah and medina with stunning views over the Strait of Gibraltar.

• Explore Cap Spartel, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean.

• Discover the mythical Caves of Hercules.

• Enjoy the modern Corniche and local cafés along the waterfront.

Overnight in Tangier, in a charming riad or hotel.

Day 2: Tangier – Tetouan – Chefchaouen

After breakfast, drive through the green hills of the Rif Mountains.

• Stop in Tetouan, a UNESCO-listed Andalusian city with a beautifully preserved medina.

• Continue to Chefchaouen, Morocco’s famous Blue Pearl.

• Stroll the blue-washed alleyways, visit Outa el Hammam Square, and hike to the Spanish Mosque for sunset views.

Overnight in Chefchaouen, in a picturesque riad.

Day 3: Chefchaouen – Roman Ruins of Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

Leave the Rif Mountains behind and head toward Morocco’s historic heart.

• Explore the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, famous for its mosaics and monumental ruins.

• Visit Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities:

  • Admire Bab Mansour Gate, the Royal Stables, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.

• Arrive in Fes, the country’s oldest and most spiritual city.

Overnight in a traditional riad inside the Fes medina.

Day 4: Fes – Full-Day Cultural Tour

Explore the treasures of Fes el-Bali, a medieval medina and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Visit:

  • University of Al Quaraouiyine – the oldest university in the world

  • Chouara Tannery

  • Bou Inania Madrasa

  • Moulay Idriss Mausoleum

• Wander through bustling souks, artisan workshops, and spice markets.

• Optional: try a traditional hammam or Moroccan cooking class.

Second night in Fes, immersed in its rich heritage.

Day 5: Fes – Ifrane – Cedar Forest – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga

Journey south toward the Sahara Desert, passing through diverse and stunning landscapes.

• Stop in Ifrane, a unique alpine town often called the “Switzerland of Morocco.”

• Meet the wild Barbary macaques in the cedar forest of Azrou.

• Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains and enjoy lunch in Midelt.

• Pass through the palm-dotted Ziz Valley before arriving in Merzouga.

Camel Trek into the Sahara:

• Ride camels into the towering Erg Chebbi dunes.

• Watch the sunset over the sands.

• Arrive at your luxury desert camp for a night of Berber music, delicious food, and stargazing.

Overnight in a deluxe tent, fully equipped with modern comforts.

Day 6: Merzouga – Nomad Villages – Black Desert – Oasis Exploration

Spend the day exploring the unique culture and landscapes of the desert.

• Visit the village of Khamlia, home to Gnawa musicians.

• Drive through the black desert of volcanic rocks.

• Share tea with a Berber nomad family.

• Discover desert oases and the fossil-rich terrain near Merzouga.

Optional activities: quad biking, sandboarding, or relaxing in the dunes.

Second night in the Sahara, under the stars.

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

After breakfast, begin your journey into the High Atlas Mountains.

• Visit the traditional market in Rissani, where locals trade spices, livestock, and crafts.

• Walk through the impressive Todra Gorges, with cliffs rising 300 meters on each side.

• Drive through Berber villages and stop to admire the Dades Gorges, famous for its winding roads and rock formations.

Overnight in a scenic kasbah hotel overlooking the valley.

Day 8: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou

Follow the legendary Route of a Thousand Kasbahs through palm groves and valleys.

• Stop in Kalaat M’Gouna, known for its annual Rose Festival.

• Pass through the Skoura Oasis and visit Kasbah Amridil.

• Explore Ouarzazate, the gateway to the Sahara, with an optional visit to Atlas Film Studios.

• Discover the ancient ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and backdrop to many Hollywood films.

Overnight in a guesthouse near the kasbah.

Day 9: Ait Ben Haddou – Tizi n’Tichka Pass – Marrakech

Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260 m).

• Enjoy stops for photos and panoramic views.

• Arrive in Marrakech, Morocco’s most famous imperial city.

Begin exploring:

• Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

• The colorful souks

• Rooftop cafés with views of the Koutoubia Mosque

Overnight in a riad near the medina.

Day 10: Full-Day Guided Tour of Marrakech

Discover the cultural treasures of the Red City with a professional guide.

• Visit:

  • Bahia Palace

  • Saadian Tombs

  • Koutoubia Mosque

  • Majorelle Garden and YSL Museum

• Explore traditional souks, leather tanneries, spice shops, and artisan markets.

• Enjoy a rooftop dinner with Moroccan music and panoramic views.

Second overnight in Marrakech, with optional hammam or spa experience.

Day 11: Day Trip to Essaouira (Atlantic Coast)

Take a refreshing day trip to the laid-back coastal town of Essaouira.

• Explore the Skala fortress, old port, and whitewashed medina.

• Shop for argan oil, artwork, and jewelry.

• Stroll along the beach or watch kite surfers in action.

• Enjoy fresh seafood lunch at a seaside café.

Return to Marrakech for your final night.

Day 12: Departure – Transfer to Marrakech or Casablanca Airport

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your private transfer to the airport in Marrakech or Casablanca, depending on your flight schedule.

Your 12-day Absolute Morocco Tour from Tangier concludes with memories of epic landscapes, ancient cities, and unforgettable cultural moments.

Included in the 12-Day Morocco Tour Package

• Private, air-conditioned transport with English-speaking driver/guide

• 11 nights in boutique riads, kasbahs, and luxury desert camps

• Daily breakfast + most dinners

• Camel trek, Sahara desert experience, local music, and sandboarding

• Guided tours in Fes, Marrakech, and Essaouira

• All entrance fees and cultural activities

• Airport pick-up in Tangier and drop-off in Marrakech or Casablanca