5-Day Morocco Tour from Tangier

This 5-day journey from Tangier takes you through Morocco’s northern treasures, the Sahara Desert, and ends in vibrant Marrakech. It’s a compact yet immersive experience blending culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Here’s the detailed itinerary:

Day 1: Tangier to Chefchaouen

Morning: Begin in Tangier with a brief visit to the Kasbah or Cap Spartel (time permitting) after pickup from your hotel, airport, or port.
Midday: Drive to Chefchaouen (2-3 hours), the “Blue Pearl,” famous for its blue-washed streets.
Afternoon: Wander the medina, visit Plaza Uta el-Hammam, and shop for local crafts.
Evening: Overnight in a riad or hotel with dinner.

Day 2: Chefchaouen to Fes via Volubilis and Meknes

Morning: Depart for Fes (4-5 hours total). Stop at Volubilis (2.5 hours from Chefchaouen), a UNESCO-listed Roman ruin with impressive mosaics.
Midday: Explore Meknes (30 minutes from Volubilis), including Bab Mansour and the medina.
Afternoon: Arrive in Fes (1 hour from Meknes) and settle into a riad.
Evening: Dinner and rest in Fes.

Day 3: Fes to Merzouga (Sahara Desert)

Morning: Early departure for Merzouga (7-8 hours). Stop in Ifrane and Azrou’s cedar forests to see Barbary macaques.
Afternoon: Pass through the Ziz Valley, stopping for lunch and photos.
Evening: Reach Merzouga, ride camels into the Erg Chebbi dunes for sunset, and spend the night in a desert camp with Berber music and dinner.

Day 4: Merzouga to Dades Valley

Morning: Watch the desert sunrise, enjoy breakfast, and return to Merzouga by camel.
Midday: Drive to Dades Valley (4-5 hours), stopping at Todra Gorge for a walk.
Afternoon: Arrive in Dades Valley and check into a guesthouse or kasbah.
Evening: Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 5: Dades Valley to Marrakech via Ait Benhaddou

Morning: Depart for Marrakech (6-7 hours). Visit Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO-listed kasbah (2-3 hours from Dades).
Midday: Pass through Ouarzazate and the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Afternoon/Evening: Arrive in Marrakech and drop off at your hotel or riad. Optional evening visit to Jemaa el-Fna square.

Transportation: Private 4×4 or minivan with a driver throughout the tour.
Accommodation: 4 nights in riads, hotels, and a desert camp (standard or luxury options based on booking).
Meals: Breakfast daily, dinner on Days 1, 3, and 4 (desert camp and Dades Valley).
Activities: Camel ride in the Sahara (round trip), guided stops at key sites (e.g., Volubilis, Ait Benhaddou).
Pickup/Drop-off: From Tangier (hotel, airport, or port) to Marrakech accommodation.

Flights: International – International or domestic flights to/from Morocco.
Lunches: Meals not listed in the “Includes” section.
Entrance Fees: Fees for sites like Volubilis, Ait Benhaddou, or optional attractions (e.g., Atlas Studios).
Drinks: Beverages at meals or outside included dinners.
Tips: Gratuities for drivers, guides, or camp staff.
Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, extra snacks, or optional activities.
Travel Insurance: Recommended but not provided.

1. Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour involves moderate physical activity, such as walking in medinas, a short camel ride, and navigating uneven terrain (e.g., desert dunes, Todra Gorge). It’s manageable for most, but those with mobility issues may find some parts challenging. Discuss concerns with your tour operator.

2. How much driving is involved?

This itinerary includes significant driving: Day 3 (7-8 hours) and Day 5 (6-7 hours) are the longest. Breaks are included, but be prepared for full travel days. A comfortable vehicle and driver help ease the journey.

3. What should I pack?

Comfortable shoes, layered clothing (desert nights are cold, days are warm), sunscreen, a hat, a reusable water bottle, and a small backpack. Bring cash (Moroccan Dirham) for small purchases, as cards aren’t always accepted.

4. Can I customize the itinerary?

Yes! You could skip Meknes/Volubilis to spend more time in Fes or end in Fes instead of Marrakech to reduce driving. Contact your tour provider for adjustments.

5. What’s the best time of year for this tour?

Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer pleasant weather. Summer (June-August) can be very hot, especially in the desert, while winter (December-February) is cooler but still enjoyable.

6. Are solo travelers welcome?

Absolutely. Joining a group tour or booking a private tour works well for solo travelers. The desert camp and shared meals provide social opportunities.

7. Is it safe?

Morocco is generally safe for tourists. Stick to guided tours in busy areas like Fes and Marrakech, watch your belongings, and follow local advice for a smooth trip.

8. What’s the food like?

Expect Moroccan staples like tagine, couscous, and mint tea. Vegetarian options are available, but inform your provider of dietary needs in advance. Desert camp dinners are hearty and traditional.