Tangier to Marrakech 7-Day Trip + Merzouga Desert Visit
Description
Embark on a remarkable 7-day journey from Tangier to Marrakech! This expedition includes visits to Chefchaouen, Volubilis, Meknes, Fez, and the awe-inspiring dunes of Merzouga.
Tour Overview
Day 1: Tangier - Chefchaouen
Our Moroccan adventure begins with your pickup from either Tangier Airport or your accommodation. Are you ready to discover the highlights of this 7-day journey?
After gathering everyone, we will proceed directly to the picturesque blue town of Chefchaouen. Upon arrival, you will be granted free time for lunch, wandering the vibrant streets, or opting for a guided exploration of Chefchaouen—the ideal way to soak in the city's allure!
Your first day will conclude at a hotel in Chefchaouen, where you'll rest in preparation for the next day's adventures.
Day 2: Chefchaouen - Volubilis - Meknes - Fez
Good morning! After enjoying a delightful breakfast at the hotel, we will depart from Chefchaouen and head towards Volubilis. This site is recognized for holding the best-preserved archaeological ruins in Morocco. You will have 1 hour and 30 minutes to marvel at its exquisite mosaics and World Heritage-listed temples.
Next, our journey continues to Meknes, one of the country's historic imperial cities. Here, you'll have two hours to explore notable sites like the magnificent Bab El-Mansour gateway, the Sahrij Souani reservoir, and the mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, which is sure to impress!
Once the free time is over, we will regroup and travel to Fez, where we will stay at a charming riad. See you tomorrow!
Day 3: Fez
After breakfast, we will dedicate the day to uncovering the wonders of Fez. Our exploration will kick off with a guided tour of this vibrant city, often referred to as the cultural capital of Morocco, and you will soon discover the reason behind this title! Our first stops will be the Royal Palace gates and the historic Jewish Quarter, known as Mellah.
Then, we’ll step into the Medina of Fez, the largest market in North Africa and a recognized World Heritage Site. We will navigate through its winding alleys, passing landmarks such as the Bab Boujloud gate, the Bou Inania Madrasa, and the renowned Quaraouiyine Mosque.
After the structured visit, you will have the afternoon at your leisure to further explore the city and sample the delectable local dishes. We will end the day back at your accommodation.
Day 4: Fez - Ziz Valley - Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, we will depart Fez and travel south towards the charming town of Ifrane, often called the Switzerland of Morocco due to its distinct alpine architecture. Our route will take us through the lush cedar forests of the Atlas Mountains, home to the friendly Barbary macaques.
You will then have free time in Midelt for lunch before we continue along the scenic Tizi n'Tichka pass. You’ll be delighted by the stunning vistas of Ziz Valley. Before dusk, we will arrive at the Merzouga Desert, where a warm mint tea will welcome you.
After settling in, enjoy a calming camel ride through the magnificent golden dunes to our desert camp. Experience an enchanting evening under the stars, accompanied by traditional Berber music and a sumptuous dinner.
Day 5: Merzouga Desert
Welcome to day 5! This day will be dedicated to discovering the splendors of the Sahara Desert. We will begin with a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, followed by a hearty breakfast.
Your day will be filled with exploration—whether by camel, off-road vehicle, or on foot. We’ll also visit a nomadic village for insights into Berber culture. You may choose to enjoy a traditional lunch there. Have you tried Berber pizza? You may find it delightful!
Later, we will return to the camp, where another magical night awaits beneath the stars.
Day 6: Merzouga Desert - Todgha Gorge - Dades Valley
Following breakfast, we will bid farewell to the Merzouga Desert as we journey to the striking Todgha Gorge. Passing through the city of Alnif, we'll make periodic stops for photos along our route.
Upon arrival at the Todgha Gorge, famous for its dramatic cliffs, you'll enjoy lunch and have the afternoon to explore freely. Our adventure progresses to the charming Dades Valley, known for its unique rock formations and lush palm tree landscapes—be sure to capture the scenery!
We will conclude the 6th day at our accommodation in Dades Valley.
Day 7: Dades Valley - Marrakech
On the final day of this incredible journey, after breakfast, we'll set out towards Ouarzazate, often dubbed the Hollywood of Morocco, making it a paradise for film enthusiasts. Here, you will have the opportunity to visit the renowned film studios.
You may also participate in an optional guided tour in English of the famous Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Are you aware of the films that have been shot here? We will traverse the breathtaking Tizi n'Tichka pass in the High Atlas Mountains, making stops for lunch and photography.
Ultimately, we will arrive in Marrakech, where we can drop you off at either the airport or your lodging, bringing this unforgettable 7-day Moroccan experience to a close.
Accommodation Details
This tour provides 6 nights of accommodation with breakfast in selected 3-star hotels and riads:
- Chefchaouen (1 night): Hotel Balcon Bleu or Hotel Tarek
- Fez (2 nights): Riad Jeanne or Riad Farah
- Merzouga (2 nights): Riad Dar Soukaina or Les Jardins Mandaline
- Dades Valley (1 night): Riad Gabsi Du Dades or Panorama Dades
Children aged 6-12 receive a discount compared to the adult fare, provided they share a room with accompanying adults. Only one child is permitted per double room. Children under 6 can join the trip free of charge but must share a bed with adults.
Important:
Guidance
It's important to note that while a guide will accompany you, a driver will be your primary support throughout the tour. Guides will be available in Fez, Marrakech, Ouarzazate, and the Merzouga desert.
Timetables and Flights
When organizing your arrival flight to Tangier, please be aware that pickup is scheduled for 10 am, meaning your arrival flight should not be later than 8 am. To avoid any issues, we recommend securing a night in a hotel in Tangier on the eve of your tour.
Moreover, the last day of the tour will see us arriving in Marrakech around noon. At this point, we can drop you off at the airport or another destination within the city. If you plan on flying out of Marrakech Airport that day, please ensure your flight is not booked before 3 pm.
What's included
- Pickup from Tangier Airport or a hotel
- Transfer to the hotel or Marrakech Airport
- Transport by minibus or bus
- English–speaking driver
- English–speaking guide in Fez, Marrakech, Ouarzazate and Merzouga Desert
- 6 nights of accommodation with breakfast in 3–star hotels or riads
- 2 dinners
What's not included
- Lunches and drinks
- Other dinners
- Admission fees: 63EUR per person
Cancellation policy
Cancellazione gratuita fino a 168 ore prima (local time)
Important information
On the day of the activity, the guide will be waiting for you with a sign with your name on it at Tangier Airport.
Additional Info
When booking your outbound flight to Tangier, please note that pickup is at 10 am. Therefore, your arrival flight cannot be later than 8 am. To avoid unforeseen circumstances, we recommend that you book yourself a night in a hotel in Tangier the day before the tour starts.
On the other hand, on the last day of the tour, we'll arrive in Marrakech around 12 pm. Once there, we can drop you off at the airport or any other place in the city. Therefore, if you're flying out of Marrakech Airport on the last day of the tour, you should not book a flight before 3 pm.
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