9 Days from Tangier to Marrakech

Day 1: Arrival in Tangier – Cape Spartel – Chefchaouen

Our 9 Days from Tangier to Marrakech tour begins in Tangier, a historic port city overlooking both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. We explore Cape Spartel, offering panoramic coastal views, followed by a visit to the legendary Hercules Caves, rich in myth and history.

We then drive through the scenic Rif Mountains, passing green hills and traditional villages until we reach Chefchaouen, Morocco’s famous Blue City. The afternoon is free to wander the blue-painted streets, discover artisan shops, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Overnight in a traditional riad.

Highlights:

• Atlantic and Mediterranean viewpoints

• Rif Mountains landscapes

• Chefchaouen blue medina

Day 2: Chefchaouen – Relaxed Exploration of the Blue City

This day is dedicated entirely to Chefchaouen, allowing time for a deeper and more relaxed exploration. We stroll through the old medina, visit Plaza Uta el-Hammam, and admire the Kasbah at the heart of the city.

Optional walks lead to panoramic viewpoints above the town, offering breathtaking views of the blue medina against the Rif Mountains. This slower pace allows for photography, café stops, and authentic local interactions.

Highlights:

• Leisurely medina walks

• Panoramic viewpoints

• Authentic local atmosphere

Day 3: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes

After breakfast, we depart Chefchaouen toward the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved mosaics, columns, and ancient streets.

We continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. Here we visit the monumental Bab Mansour Gate, the Royal Granaries, and historic city walls before heading to Fes, the cultural and spiritual capital of Morocco. Overnight in a riad inside the medina.

Highlights:

• Volubilis Roman heritage

• Imperial city of Meknes

• Arrival in historic Fes

Day 4: Guided Tour of Fes – Imperial Heritage

This day is devoted to a comprehensive guided tour of Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city. With an experienced local guide, we explore Fes el-Bali, one of the world’s largest medieval medinas.

Visits include:

• Al Quaraouiyine University, the oldest existing university

• Bou Inania Madrasa, renowned for its intricate architecture

• Chouara Tannery, showcasing traditional leather production

• Nejjarine Fountain and artisan quarters

We also visit the Mellah (Jewish Quarter) and enjoy panoramic views from the city ramparts.

Highlights:

• UNESCO-listed medina

• Historic religious and educational sites

• Traditional Moroccan craftsmanship

Day 5: Fes – Ifrane – Cedar Forest – Midelt

Leaving Fes, we travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Our first stop is Ifrane, often called the Switzerland of Morocco for its alpine-style architecture and clean environment.

We continue through the Azrou Cedar Forest, home to Barbary macaques, before driving through scenic mountain landscapes to Midelt, a town located between the Middle and High Atlas ranges. Dinner and overnight in a comfortable hotel.

Highlights:

• Ifrane alpine town

• Cedar forest wildlife

• Mountain scenery

Day 6: Midelt – Ziz Valley – Rissani – Merzouga Desert

After breakfast, we cross impressive mountain landscapes and descend into the lush Ziz Valley, famous for its palm groves and ancient fortified villages.

Passing through Rissani, a historic trading center and birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty, we arrive in Merzouga, gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. In the afternoon, we enjoy a magical camel trek across the Sahara Desert, watching the sunset over golden dunes.

We spend the night in a traditional desert camp, with dinner, Berber music, and a star-filled sky.

Highlights:

• Ziz Valley oasis

• Camel trekking experience

• Overnight in Sahara desert camp

Day 7: Merzouga – Desert Exploration – Nomad Culture

This day is dedicated to exploring the Merzouga region. We travel by 4×4 to discover desert landscapes, visit nomadic families, explore fossil areas, and enjoy Gnawa music in the village of Khamlia.

We return to Merzouga in the afternoon for relaxation or optional activities such as sandboarding. Overnight in a hotel near the dunes.

Highlights:

• Nomadic lifestyle encounters

• Gnawa music experience

• Erg Chebbi desert exploration

Day 8: Merzouga – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley

After breakfast, we leave the desert and head toward the spectacular Todra Gorges, where massive canyon walls rise dramatically above a flowing river.

After free time for walking and photography, we continue through scenic landscapes to the Dades Valley, known for its winding roads, rock formations, and ancient kasbahs. Dinner and overnight in a hotel overlooking the valley.

Highlights:

• Todra Canyon landscapes

• Scenic valley roads

• Dades rock formations

Day 9: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech

On the final day of our 9 Days from Tangier to Marrakech tour, we follow the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs toward Ouarzazate, Morocco’s film capital.

We visit the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive earthen villages in North Africa. We then cross the High Atlas Mountains via the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass, arriving in Marrakech, where the tour concludes.

Highlights:

• Ait Ben Haddou UNESCO site

• High Atlas Mountain landscapes

• Arrival in Marrakech

Why Choose Our 9 Days from Tangier to Marrakech Tour

• Expert English-speaking drivers and guides

• Carefully selected riads, hotels, and desert camps

• Balanced pace with deep cultural immersion

• Private and fully customizable itineraries

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a complete and authentic Moroccan experience, combining iconic landmarks with meaningful local encounters.

Our 9 Days from Tangier to Marrakech itinerary delivers a truly immersive journey across Morocco. From the blue streets of Chefchaouen to the golden dunes of the Sahara and the vibrant heart of Marrakech, this tour showcases Morocco’s diversity, history, and natural beauty in exceptional depth.