OVERVIEW OF 5 DAY TOUR FROM TANGIER TO MARRAKECH

This 5-day Morocco Desert Tour from Tangier offers an extraordinary journey through the country’s most diverse and captivating landscapes. Designed to reveal Morocco’s cultural depth and natural grandeur, this itinerary combines imperial cities, Roman heritage, mountain panoramas, and the timeless beauty of the Sahara Desert.

Beginning in Tangier, the gateway between Europe and Africa, the tour leads you across the dramatic Rif Mountains to the enchanting blue city of Chefchaouen. You will explore the remarkably preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis and discover the imperial elegance of Meknes. The journey continues through the Middle Atlas region, including Ifrane — often referred to as the “Switzerland of Morocco” — and the cedar forests inhabited by Barbary macaques.

As the scenery gradually shifts from alpine landscapes to arid expanses, you will reach the golden dunes of Merzouga. There, you will experience camel trekking across Erg Chebbi, witness unforgettable sunset and sunrise views, and spend a magical night in a desert camp. The adventure continues through the spectacular Todra and Dades Gorges, historic kasbahs, and finally across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass before concluding in the vibrant city of Marrakech.

This itinerary offers a seamless blend of history, culture, adventure, and breathtaking scenery.

HIGHLIGHTS OF 5 DAY TOUR FROM TANGIER TO MARRAKECH

• Explore the iconic blue city of Chefchaouen
• Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Discover Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities
• Stop in Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco”
• Walk through the Azrou cedar forest and observe wild Barbary macaques
• Pass through Midelt, renowned for its apple orchards
• Travel along the lush Ziz Valley palm groves
• Camel trekking experience in the Sahara Desert of Merzouga
• Visit Todra Gorges and the scenic Dades Valley
• Explore the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou
• Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass

ITINERARY FOR: 5 DAY TOUR FROM TANGIER TO MARRAKECH

DAY 1: TANGIER – CHEFCHAOUEN

Your journey begins in Tangier, a city rich in history and cultural exchange. After departure, you will travel through the scenic Rif Mountains, where dramatic hills and coastal views create a striking natural backdrop.

Passing near Tetouan, a city influenced by Andalusian and Spanish heritage, you will notice its distinctive architectural character and cultural refinement.

By afternoon, arrival in Chefchaouen, Morocco’s celebrated “Blue Pearl.” Nestled within the Rif Mountains, this picturesque town is renowned for its white-and-blue-washed medina, tranquil atmosphere, and artisan shops. Stroll through the charming alleys, explore the central square of Uta el-Hammam, and admire the blend of mountain serenity and artistic expression.

Overnight stay in a traditional riad or hotel in Chefchaouen.

DAY 2: CHEFCHAOUEN – VOLUBILIS – MEKNES – FES

After breakfast, depart toward the ancient Roman city of Volubilis. This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves some of the finest Roman ruins in North Africa, including intricate mosaics, grand arches, basilicas, and columns that testify to the region’s historical significance.

Continue to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities and the former capital of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Visit Bab Mansour, one of the most impressive gates in Morocco, the Sahrij Souani basin, the royal granaries, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.

In the afternoon, proceed to Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and intellectual heart. Overnight in a riad or hotel.

DAY 3: FES – IFRANE – CEDAR FOREST – ZIZ VALLEY – MERZOUGA

After breakfast, depart Fes and head toward the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane, distinguished by its alpine-style architecture, landscaped parks, and cool climate — hence its nickname, “the Switzerland of Morocco.”

Continue to the cedar forest near Azrou, home to the Barbary macaques. Here, you may observe these wild monkeys in their natural habitat.

Proceed to Midelt for lunch, a town known for its orchards and mountain scenery. Afterward, cross the Tizi n’Tlghmt Pass and descend toward the magnificent Ziz Valley, where thousands of palm trees form a striking green corridor through the desert landscape.

By late afternoon, arrival in Merzouga. Mount your camels for a trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Pause atop a high dune to admire the sunset as the sands glow in warm shades of amber and crimson.

Arrival at the desert camp, where traditional hospitality awaits. Enjoy dinner, Berber music around the campfire, and an unforgettable night beneath a vast, star-filled sky.

DAY 4: MERZOUGA – ERFOUD – TODRA GORGES – DADES VALLEY

Wake early to witness the sunrise over the dunes, a serene and unforgettable spectacle. After breakfast, depart Merzouga.

Stop in Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops and mineral craftsmanship. Continue to the Todra Gorges, where towering limestone cliffs rise dramatically above a narrow river valley. Take a walk along the gorge to fully appreciate its scale and natural beauty.

In the afternoon, proceed to the Dades Valley. En route, admire unusual rock formations known as the “Monkey Fingers,” sculpted by centuries of wind and erosion. Drive along the winding Tisdrine road, famous for its sharp curves and panoramic views.

Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel or riad in the Dades Valley.

DAY 5: DADES VALLEY – AIT BENHADDOU – HIGH ATLAS – MARRAKECH

After breakfast, travel through the Valley of Roses near Kalaat M’Gouna, famous for its annual rose festival and production of rose-based cosmetics.

Continue to Skoura’s palm grove before arriving in Ouarzazate. Here, you may visit the Atlas Film Studios and Kasbah Taourirt, reflecting the region’s cinematic legacy.

Proceed to the magnificent Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fortified ksar, built in traditional earthen architecture, has served as a backdrop for numerous international films and television productions.

After exploring the kasbah, cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters). Enjoy scenic stops for photography and rest before descending toward Marrakech.

Arrival in Marrakech in the late afternoon or evening. Transfer to your accommodation, marking the conclusion of your 5-day journey from Tangier to Marrakech.