Trip Overview
5 Days / 4 Nights – Desert to Imperial Morocco Tour
From the coastal charm of Tangier to the magic of the Sahara and the soul of Marrakech.
Embark on an unforgettable five-day journey that blends the wild beauty of Morocco’s landscapes with the grandeur of its imperial cities and the mystery of its desert heart. This privately guided itinerary begins in Tangier, the cosmopolitan city of the north, and takes you south through the Rif Mountains, the blue-washed charm of Chefchaouen, the Roman legacies of Volubilis, and the ancient grandeur of Fes.
From there, descend into the Sahara Desert, ride camels across golden dunes, and explore the breathtaking Todra Gorges and Dades Valley. Cross the dramatic High Atlas Mountains and arrive in legendary Marrakech, where your journey concludes.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Tangier – Cape Spartel – Chefchaouen
Your Moroccan adventure begins in Tangier, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic. After a warm welcome, visit the dramatic Cape Spartel and the mythical Cave of Hercules. From the coast, travel inland through the Rif Mountains, pausing for scenic viewpoints en route to Chefchaouen, Morocco’s iconic blue city. Settle into your charming riad for the night.
Day 2: Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes
Spend your morning wandering Chefchaouen’s winding alleyways, where indigo walls and artisan shops create a peaceful, photogenic atmosphere. Afterward, head south to explore the UNESCO-listed Roman ruins of Volubilis, famous for their mosaics and monumental arches. Continue to Meknes, the imperial capital of Sultan Moulay Ismail, and visit Bab Mansour, the Royal Granaries, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. By evening, arrive in Fes and check in to a traditional riad.
Day 3: Fes – Ifrane – Cedar Forest – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
Leave Fes and journey through Morocco’s central landscapes. Stop in Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine-style architecture, then visit the cedar forests of Azrou, home to the Barbary macaques. Enjoy lunch in Midelt, then cross the Tizi-n-Tilghmt Pass, following the Ziz Valley’s winding palm oases toward the Sahara Desert. Upon reaching Merzouga, mount a camel for a sunset trek through the Erg Chebbi dunes and arrive at your luxury desert camp for dinner and a night under the stars.
Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
After sunrise and breakfast in the desert, travel to Rissani, a historic trading center still vibrant on market days. Continue to Erfoud, known for its fossil workshops, then head toward the dramatic Todra Gorges. With towering red cliffs and a crystal-clear river, this is a favorite spot for rock climbers and nature lovers alike. Later, drive through Boumalne Dades, stopping to admire the whimsical “Monkey Fingers” rock formations and expansive views over the Dades Valley. Dinner and overnight in a boutique hotel.
Day 5: Dades – Rose Valley – Skoura – Ait Ben Haddou – Telouet – Marrakech
Travel through the fragrant Rose Valley, known for its annual harvest and artisanal rose products, then continue through the palm groves of Skoura to visit the Amridil Kasbah. Arrive in Ouarzazate, Morocco’s cinematic capital, for a brief tour of the Taourirt Kasbah and film studios. Then head to the legendary Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site whose architecture has appeared in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, stopping for breathtaking views before arriving in Marrakech by evening. Your tour ends with a drop-off at your accommodation — or let the Red City’s magic extend your stay.
Tour Details
Inclusions
Private transport in A/C 4×4 vehicle or minivan
Professional English-speaking driver
Pick-up in Tangier / Drop-off in Marrakech
3 nights in boutique riads and hotels
1 night in luxury Sahara desert camp
Camel ride in Merzouga
Daily breakfasts
2 dinners (in Dades and Merzouga)
Exclusions
International flights
Lunches and beverages
Monument entrance fees
Personal expenses and tips
Please Note
This is a suggested itinerary and can be fully customized to suit your preferences, timeframe, and travel style. Accommodation upgrades, private guides, and additional experiences (such as hot-air balloon rides or cooking classes) can be arranged upon request.
Pricing varies by group size and accommodation category. Contact us to receive your personalized quote and detailed travel proposal.