12 Days Tangier to Merzouga Sahara Desert Tour
Embark on a memorable 12-day journey from Tangier to the stunning Merzouga Sahara Desert. This extensive tour offers a blend of Morocco’s vibrant cities, historical landmarks, and breathtaking desert landscapes, providing an in-depth exploration of the country’s diverse beauty and culture.
Tour Highlights
- Discover Tangier’s historical medina and modern attractions
- Experience the charm of Chefchaouen’s blue-washed streets
- Immerse yourself in Fes’s rich history and culture
- Explore the Middle Atlas Mountains, including Ifrane and Azrou
- Enjoy a camel trek and a night in a desert camp at Erg Chebbi
- Visit the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis
- Admire the stunning landscapes of Todra Gorge and Dades Valley
- Explore the historical kasbahs of Aït Ben Haddou and the film studios of Ouarzazate
- Discover the vibrant city of Marrakech
- Relax in the coastal city of Essaouira
- Experience Casablanca’s modern and historic landmarks
Itinerary
Day 1: Tangier – Chefchaouen
Pick up from Tangier and drive to Chefchaouen. Explore the blue-washed streets and visit the Kasbah Museum. Enjoy a local dinner and overnight stay in Chefchaouen.
Day 2: Chefchaouen – Fes
Travel to Fes, Morocco’s cultural heart. Visit the ancient medina, Bou Inania Madrasa, Al-Qarawiyyin University, and explore the bustling souks. Overnight stay in Fes.
Day 3: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt
Journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane, known as "Little Switzerland," and Azrou to see the cedar forests and Barbary apes. Continue to Midelt for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
Drive through the scenic Ziz Valley with its palm groves and desert landscapes. Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Enjoy a camel trek and watch the sunset. Overnight stay in a desert camp.
Day 5: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorge
Visit the market town of Rissani, then travel to Todra Gorge, known for its dramatic cliffs. Continue to the Dades Valley for an overnight stay.
Day 6: Dades Valley – Aït Ben Haddou
Explore the Dades Valley’s unique landscapes and drive to Aït Ben Haddou. Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its traditional kasbahs. Overnight stay in Aït Ben Haddou.
Day 7: Aït Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate
Travel to Ouarzazate, the "Hollywood of Africa." Explore the Taourirt Kasbah and the film studios. Overnight stay in Ouarzazate.
Day 8: Ouarzazate – Marrakech
Drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass to Marrakech. Explore the city’s medina, Jardin Majorelle, Saadian Tombs, and Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Overnight stay in Marrakech.
Day 9: Marrakech – Essaouira
Travel to Essaouira, a charming coastal city. Discover its historic medina, UNESCO World Heritage status, and enjoy fresh seafood. Overnight stay in Essaouira.
Day 10: Essaouira – Casablanca
Return to Casablanca. Visit the Hassan II Mosque and explore the city’s modern and historic landmarks. Overnight stay in Casablanca.
Day 11: Casablanca – Rabat
Drive to Rabat. Explore the Royal Palace, Hassan Tower, and Oudaias Kasbah. Overnight stay in Rabat.
Day 12: Rabat – Tangier
Return to Tangier. Enjoy some final sightseeing or shopping before your transfer to the airport or hotel, concluding your Moroccan adventure.
Price Includes
- Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel/airport
- An air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle or spacious minivan
- English-speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation: 1 night in Chefchaouen, 2 nights in Fes, 1 night in Midelt, 1 night in desert camp, 1 night in Dades Valley, 1 night in Aït Ben Haddou, 1 night in Ouarzazate, 2 nights in Marrakech, 1 night in Essaouira, 1 night in Casablanca, 1 night in Rabat
- Dinner & breakfast daily
- Camel ride in the Sahara Desert
- No forced shopping stops during the tour
Price Excludes
- Lunch and drinks
- Entrance fees to sites
FAQ
1. What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and a reusable water bottle. For the desert, pack warm layers for the evening as temperatures can drop significantly.
2. Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly. However, please ensure that children are comfortable with long car rides and camel trekking.
3. Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, we can accommodate special requests or modifications to the itinerary. Please contact us in advance to discuss your preferences.
4. Are there vegetarian or special dietary options available?
Yes, we can provide vegetarian and other dietary options. Please inform us of any special dietary requirements when booking your tour.
5. What if the weather is bad?
Our tours operate year-round, but in case of extreme weather conditions, we will adjust the itinerary to ensure your safety and comfort. We will inform you of any changes as soon as possible.
6. Is there a limit on luggage?
We recommend bringing only essential items. Luggage space is limited in the 4x4 vehicle, so please pack light and consider using a small bag or backpack.
