
- Tangier
- 6 days / 5 nights
overview:
Join an exciting 6-day tour from Tangier to the Merzouga Desert, traveling through Morocco’s rich landscapes, from the northern coast to the heart of the Sahara Desert. This journey offers the perfect combination of adventure and cultural immersion, taking you through stunning imperial cities, the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, and ending in the golden dunes of the Erg Chebbi Desert. Experience the best of Morocco’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
itinerary:
Day 1: Tangier to Chefchaouen
Begin your journey in Tangier, the gateway to Africa, with a scenic drive to the blue-painted town of Chefchaouen. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning blue-washed streets. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to explore the medina, visit Outa el-Hammam Square, and enjoy the artistic vibe of this charming town.
Spend the night in a traditional riad, savoring a delicious Moroccan dinner while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of Chefchaouen.
Day 2: Chefchaouen to Fes via Volubilis and Meknes
On day two, depart Chefchaouen and travel south towards Fes, with stops at the ancient Roman city of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes. Explore the impressive Roman ruins at Volubilis, known for its well-preserved mosaics and ancient history.
In Meknes, visit the grand Bab Mansour gate, the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, and the sprawling Heri es-Souani granaries. Afterward, continue to Fes, where you’ll spend the night in a charming riad within the medina.
Day 3: Full Day in Fes
Day three is dedicated to exploring the historic city of Fes, one of Morocco’s most culturally rich destinations. Begin your exploration in the UNESCO-listed Fes el-Bali medina, a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with vibrant souks, ancient mosques, and historic madrasas. Visit the famous Al-Qarawiyyin University, the oldest university in the world, and the stunning Bou Inania Madrasa.
In the afternoon, discover the traditional leather tanneries, where you can watch artisans use centuries-old methods to dye leather. After a full day of exploration, enjoy dinner in a local restaurant and relax in your riad.
Day 4: Fes to Merzouga via Ifrane, Azrou, and Ziz Valley
After breakfast, leave Fes and head south through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane, known for its alpine-style architecture and often called the “Switzerland of Morocco.” Continue through the cedar forests of Azrou, where you may spot wild Barbary macaques.
Travel through the picturesque Ziz Valley, famous for its lush palm groves, before reaching Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. In Merzouga, you’ll switch from vehicle to camel for a memorable camel trek into the desert. As the sun sets over the dunes, the sky lights up with hues of orange and gold. Spend the night in a traditional Berber camp, enjoying dinner, live music, and stargazing.
Day 5: Exploring the Merzouga Desert
Day five is dedicated to fully exploring the Merzouga Desert. Begin with a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast at the camp. You can spend the day trying various desert activities, such as sandboarding, quad biking, or visiting a nearby Berber village to learn about local nomadic life.
In the afternoon, relax at your camp or take another camel trek into the heart of the dunes. Enjoy a second night in the desert, where you’ll savor traditional Moroccan cuisine and listen to Berber music around the campfire.
Day 6: Merzouga to Fes via Ziz Valley
On the final day, wake up early for another stunning desert sunrise, followed by a camel ride back to Merzouga. After breakfast, you’ll begin the return journey to Fes, passing once again through the beautiful Ziz Valley. Along the way, enjoy scenic stops for photos and explore the landscape of southern Morocco.
Arrive in Fes by the evening, marking the end of your incredible 6-day desert adventure from Tangier to Merzouga.
Why Choose the 6-Day Desert Tour from Tangier to Merzouga?
This 6-day tour offers the perfect blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and relaxation. With visits to Morocco’s imperial cities, scenic drives through the Middle Atlas Mountains, and two nights in the Sahara Desert, this tour provides a well-rounded experience for those seeking to explore both the natural beauty and rich history of Morocco.
What to Expect on the 6-Day Desert Tour
- Scenic drives through the Rif Mountains and Middle Atlas Mountains
- Exploration of imperial cities like Fes and Meknes
- A visit to the Roman ruins of Volubilis
- Camel trekking in the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Two nights in a traditional Berber camp, complete with dinner and music
- Stunning desert sunrises and sunsets
The 6-day tour from Tangier to Merzouga Desert offers a perfect combination of cultural exploration, desert adventure, and scenic beauty. From the blue streets of Chefchaouen to the golden dunes of the Sahara, this tour provides an immersive experience in Morocco’s diverse landscapes and rich history. Whether you’re camel trekking through the desert or exploring ancient Roman ruins, this journey promises to leave you with unforgettable memories of Morocco’s enchanting beauty.