Private 5-Day Morocco Desert Tour: Tangier to Marrakech Travel Itinerary

Bid farewell to the enchanting hues of Chefchaouen as you embark on your journey to the captivating city of Fes. Upon arrival, delve into a half-day guided tour of the ancient city, locally known as Fes el Bali. This area is a haven of local craftsmanship, adorned with vibrant Moroccan styles, showcasing the artistry of leather-work and metalwork. Fes stands as a global hub for education and culture, encompassing both Islamic and Jewish influences. Your knowledgeable local guide will weave tales of the city’s rich history as you navigate the winding streets and epic alleyways, encountering donkeys laden with goods. Dive into the specialty sections that intricately divide the bustling souk.

Highlights of the tour include visits to the King’s Palace, the tanneries, Al Qaraouine University, and the Attarine Madrasa. Explore a Mosaic museum to gain insights into this unique regional art form. Conclude the journey with a panoramic view of the expansive Medina, offering a clear perspective of its vastness. As the walking tour concludes at Bab Boujloud, the “Blue Gate”, you’ll have the afternoon at your leisure for personal exploration.

◈ Overnight: Fes

◈ Meals: Breakfast

Commence a scenic journey across the Middle Atlas Mountains, where towering pine trees grace your route, guiding you past olive groves and shepherds tending to their flocks. Traverse the Cedar Forests, a captivating landscape along the way. En route stop in Ifrane, an enchanting ski resort nestled in the mountains. Later on, continue towards Midelt through the Cedar Forest, offering a chance to encounter Barbary macaques foraging in their natural habitat.

The journey then unfolds towards the Erg Chebbi dunes near the remote town of Merzouga, showcasing iconic landscapes with towering dunes reaching heights of up to 150 meters. Approaching Erfoud, witness the remarkable Ziz Oasis and expansive valleys.

Upon reaching your destination, set off on a camel ride into the Sahara Desert, leading you to a spectacular camp hidden amidst the dunes. Immerse yourself in the magic of desert life, surrounded by the timeless beauty of the landscape. Don’t miss the mesmerizing sunset in the heart of the desert. Indulge in a delightful dinner, accompanied by live Berber music around an open fire, culminating in an unforgettable night under the expansive Saharan stars. Absorb the beauty of the desert, creating lasting memories of this remarkable desert exploration.

◈ Overnight: Merzouga Desert

◈ Meals: Dinner & Breakfast

Following a breathtaking sunrise, refresh and enjoy breakfast at your camp. Subsequently, depart from the Erg Chebbi dunes and embark on the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs towards the Todra Gorge. Encircled by towering vertical limestone cliffs, soaring to heights of 300 meters, the gorge of Todra stands as one of Morocco’s most dramatic and spectacular natural wonders. Its allure is heightened by the ever-changing colors as the sun gracefully transitions from east to west. Take ample time to marvel at this awe-inspiring sight before continuing your journey to the picturesque Dades Valley.

The Dades Valley unveils scenery unlike any other – vast green valleys yielding to otherworldly rock formations sculpted by the persistent winds. Additionally, your hotel, boasting a delightful pool and terrace overlooking the valley, provides an ideal setting to unwind and absorb the surreal views. Take a moment to relax and appreciate the ethereal beauty of this unique landscape.

◈ Overnight: Boumalne Dades

◈ Meals: Dinner & Breakfast

This morning, set out on a journey along the scenic route of The Rose Valley and the Thousand Kasbahs, heading towards Ouarzazate – often hailed as the Hollywood of North Africa. Midway through your route, make a stop in the Rose Valley in Kalaat M’gouna, where an abundance of roses bloom in spring. Take a moment to explore the variety of rose products crafted by the locals.

Later-on, continue the expedition to Ouarzazate, renowned as the gateway to the desert and a prominent filming location for numerous Hollywood blockbusters and acclaimed TV shows. Upon arrival, consider an optional visit to the Atlas Studio, one of the largest studios globally.

Next, resume the journey to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkably preserved medieval village that has graced the screens of blockbuster movies such as Gladiator and The Living Daylights. Following lunch and the exploration of Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, traverse the majestic High Atlas Mountains. Additionally, ascend over the Tizi N’tichka pass, reveling in panoramic views of the mountains and expansive valleys as you continue towards Marrakech. Your Private 5-day Morocco desert tour from Tangier concludes here, leaving you with enduring memories of this enchanting journey. Additional accommodation can be pre-booked if you wish to explore Marrakech. 

⟐ Meals: Breakfast

Merzouga Desert is approximately 670 kilometers (416 miles) southeast of Tangier. Travel time by car or bus is around 10 to 11 hours.

Some highlights include the Kasbah, Medina, Hercules Cave, and the American Legation Museum. Don’t forget to explore the vibrant markets and enjoy the coastal views.

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are ideal for Tangier. Merzouga is best visited during the cooler months of October to April to avoid extreme desert temperatures.

It’s recommended to pack comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather during the day and cooler temperatures at night. Essentials include sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a scarf for protection from the desert wind, comfortable shoes for walking, and a small backpack for personal items. It’s also advisable to bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and memorable moments.

The camel trek is about an hour, with a break in the heart of the desert in order to witness the sunset. If you prefer to walk, then you can walk alongside our camel caravan, but bear in mind that walking in the sand can be tiring.

Whether you choose to embrace the adventure of a camel ride or opt for the convenience of a 4×4 transfer, the choice is yours. Erg Chebbi’s enchanting desert camp awaits, promising an unforgettable getaway amidst the breathtaking dunes.

Wi-Fi availability in the desert camps can vary depending on the specific camp you choose. Some desert camps may offer Wi-Fi access to their guests, while others may not have this facility available.

• Camel Trekking: Enjoy a camel ride through the majestic Sahara desert, immersing yourself in the serene landscape.
• Sand-boarding: Slide down the sandy slopes of the dunes on a sand-board, experiencing the thrill of this desert sport.
• Desert Camping: Spend a night in a desert camp, where you can relax, enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine, and marvel at the starry night sky.
• Quad Biking: Embark on an adrenaline-filled quad bike ride across the desert, exploring the sandy terrain and experiencing the exhilaration of off-road riding.
• Dune Buggy Rides: Hop on a dune buggy and embark on an adventure across the dunes. These off-road vehicles offer a thrilling and fast-paced experience in the desert.
• Off-Road Adventures: Embark on off-road excursions in 4×4 vehicles, exploring the rugged desert landscape, visiting hidden oases, and discovering remote areas not easily accessible by regular vehicles.