13-Day Morocco Grand Tour from Tangier
About This Tour
This private 13-day Morocco journey begins in Tangier and finishes in Tangier. Along the route, you will experience Tangier, Chefchaouen, Volubilis, Meknes, Fes, and more. The itinerary is designed to balance long scenic drives with meaningful stops, authentic local experiences, and time to enjoy the destination rather than simply pass through it. With Sahara Star Tours, the experience is arranged as a private trip with air-conditioned transport, local support, and an itinerary that can be tailored to your travel style. The pace is designed for travelers who want a structured private itinerary without sacrificing time for local discovery.
Highlights:
- Merzouga Sahara and Erg Chebbi dunes
- Desert camel trekking at sunset
- UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
- Scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains
- Chefchaouen, Morocco's blue mountain city
- Fes medina and historic cultural sites
Program Itinerary
Arrival to Tangier – Chefchaouen
On the first day of your 13-day Absolute Morocco tour, Your driver will pick you up from your accommodation, the airport, or the port in Tangier—“the bride of the north.” The city sits where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic at Cape Spartel. You begin with a short tour of Tangier, visiting the Cave of Hercules and Cape Spartel. Enjoy free time for lunch. Afterward, you drive inland to Chefchaouen via Tetouan and the Rif Mountains, with stops for panoramic views along the way. Finally, you reach Chefchaouen. Overnight in a Riad
Sightseeing Chefchaouen, the Blue City
After breakfast, explore Chefchaouen with a local guide, the Blue City—also known as “Achaoun,” meaning “horns” in Berber. Nestled in the Rif Mountains of northwestern Morocco, it is famous for alleys and facades painted in shades of blue and white. Stroll the charming old medina with its distinctive doors. Enjoy free time for lunch. In the afternoon, you can hike to the Spanish Mosque on the hill for a spectacular citywide view. Overnight in the same Riad.
Chefchaouen – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes
After breakfast, enjoy a final wander through Chefchaouen’s alleys on your own, next drive to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis—well preserved and recognized by UNESCO as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its mosaics, columns, and archways. Continue 30 km to Meknes, the Ismaili capital, to visit Bab al-Mansour, the Sahrij Souani basin, the Royal Stables, the granary, and the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum. Proceed to Fes. Overnight in a riad.
Guided sightseeing in Fes
Your driver will pick you up from your Riad in Fes after breakfast to begin your immersive exploration of one of Morocco’s most iconic imperial cities — Fes, the country’s cultural and spiritual heart. Your journey starts with a driving tour. First, you’ll stop at the magnificent Royal Palace Gate, followed by a visit to “The Mellah”, the historic Jewish Quarter. Next, enjoy breathtaking views from the Borj Sud fortress, offering a stunning overlook of the ancient medina. The final stop of this portion is the Ceramic Village & School, where you’ll witness traditional craftsmanship in action. Next, a walking tour, step back in time as you enter the medieval medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved historic towns in the Arab world. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore highlights such as the Al Attarine Madrasa, the University and Mosque of Al Quaraouiyine — considered the oldest existing university in the world — and the colorful Chouara Tanneries, where leather is dyed using centuries-old methods. After this unforgettable journey through history, you’ll be returned to your riad to Relax
Fes – Ifrane – Cedar Forest – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Sahara
After breakfast, the 13-day Absolute Morocco tour heads south via Imouzzer to visit Ifrane, known for cool weather, winter snow, and alpine-style chalets—the “Switzerland of Morocco.” Continue to the Cedar Forest to see Barbary macaques in their natural habitat. Enjoy free time for lunch in Midelt. Drive over the Tizi-n-Tilghmt Pass and along the Ziz Valley with scenic stops. In the afternoon, you reach Merzouga, where you switch to camels to cross the golden dunes, pausing on a high ridge for sunset. Continue to a luxury desert camp combining nomadic tradition with modern comfort. Enjoy Berber drumming around the campfire under a vast, star-filled sky.
Explore Merzouga – Nomads – Khamlia – Merzouga Lake – Erg Chebbi – Palm Grove
After breakfast, dedicate the day to exploring the Merzouga region—dunes, a seasonal lake, fossil areas, small mines, and lush oases—ideal for light off-road adventures. Visit an old kohl (eyeliner) mine, next share tea with nomads in their woven tents. Continue to Khamlia village for Gnaoua music and dance; many residents trace roots to Mali, Sudan, and Niger. Enjoy free time for lunch. Stroll through a palm-tree grove and drive to the wild lake of Merzouga (often home to flamingos) before returning to Merzouga. Dinner and overnight in a hotel.
Merzouga – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
Waking up early for sunrise is a must. After breakfast, leave the desert for Rissani, the former capital of Tafilalet and still a major regional market, especially lively on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Continue to Erfoud to visit a fossil workshop. Drive via Touroug and Tinjdad palm groves to reach the Todra Gorge, where the river has carved a dramatic canyon—an iconic site for climbers. Enjoy free time for lunch. Proceed through Boumalne Dades to the Dades Valley, stopping at the “Monkey Fingers” rock formations and a lookout over the valley. Dinner and overnight in a hotel.
Dades Valley – Roses Valley – Palm Groves of Skoura – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – High Atlas Mountains – Marrakech
After breakfast, you continue our trip to Kalaa Magouna, to visit the Rose Valley. A Rose Festival is held annually in May. Where the locals offer their rose products, from perfumes, rose water, oil, to cosmetic products. Next, you drive through the palm groves of Skoura, before you reach Ouarzazate, where you visit the studios, in which famous movies were shot. You depart to visit the famous Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou. A fortified village recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Furthermore, the Kasbah has appeared in many movies including: Gladiator, Alexander, The Mummy…etc. And TV series including Game Of Thrones. After that you continue to Marrakech, by driving through the Tizi n'Tichka pass, and the High Atlas Mountains. Stops will be made for lunch, and to take pictures at interesting spots. Overnight stay in a Riad in Marrakech.
Guided Tour sightseeing Marrakech
After a warm breakfast, you will be exploring the Highlights of Marrakech with a local guide. As one of Morocco’s historic imperial cities, Marrakech is rich in culture and architectural beauty. The tour includes a visit to the stunning 19th-century Bahia Palace, followed by the beautifully preserved Ben Youssef Madrasa, a former Islamic school showcasing traditional Moroccan design. You’ll also explore the lively medina and its souks, filled with colorful stalls and skilled artisans, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jamaa El Fna Square, and admire the Koutoubia Mosque from outside, the largest in the city. Enjoy free time for lunch. In the afternoon, meet your driver to visit the iconic Majorelle Garden (requires online pre-booking), followed by a drive through Gueliz, the modern district of Marrakech, before returning to your Riad.
Marrakech – Essaouira
After breakfast, you drive west to Essaouira. On the way you will make stops to see the Argan trees plantations and cooperatives, and if you are lucky enough the goats on the trees. You reach Essaouira, formerly Mogador, one of the important coastal towns in Morocco. The city is famous for the diversity of seafood, beautiful beach and surfing sport. Enjoy free time to visit the fishing port, the ancient ramparts with cannons, and also the old medina. Finally, transfer to your hotel. Overnight stay in Essaouira.
Essaouira – Visit Casablanca
Depart Essaouira and follow the highway north to Casablanca — Morocco’s largest city and economic heartbeat. Your journey begins with a visit to the spectacular Hassan II Mosque, perched on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. As the largest mosque in Morocco, its intricate architecture and seaside setting make it a must-see landmark. After some free time for lunch, you continue exploring the highlights of Casablanca. Mohammed V Square – the bustling civic center known for its colonial architecture A photo stop at the iconic Rick’s Café, inspired by the classic film Casablanca
Rabat sightseeing – Assilah
You drive along the coastline to Rabat. Rabat is one of the imperial cities in Morocco, and the current capital. You will visit the Highlights of the Moroccan capital. Including: the Hassan tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and also the Kasbah of Oudaya. Enjoy free time for lunch. In the afternoon, you head north to Assilah the beautiful seaside city. Overnight stay in a Riad
Assilah – Transfer to Tangier
On the last day, you depart from Assilah and head to Tangier. Drop off at your departure terminal in Casablanca airport..
Expedition Media Gallery
A visual glimpse of the spectacular landscapes awaiting you.
Inclusions & Trip Details
What's Included
- Private air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan
- Experienced local driver/guide and private transfers
- Fuel, road tolls and standard vehicle operating costs
- Accommodation in selected riads/hotels as specified in the itinerary
- Breakfasts and included dinners according to the itinerary
- Desert camel trek and access to the desert camp
Not Included
- Lunches and drinks
- Flights and airport services not explicitly listed
- Personal expenses and optional activities
- Tips and gratuities
Interactive Route Map
Explore your complete journey route on this interactive map. Select any destination marker to discover what awaits you on each day.
Route Milestones
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private or shared tour?
This is a private experience: the vehicle, driver, and itinerary are reserved for your group. The route and pace can be adjusted around your travel preferences.
How long is the camel ride, and is there an alternative?
The camel trek usually lasts around 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the camp and the day’s route. A 4×4 transfer can be arranged instead, and ATVs may be available at an additional cost.
Is the desert camp tent private?
The luxury desert camp accommodation described for this itinerary uses private tents with private bathrooms and hot running water, subject to the camp booked.
Where are pickup and drop-off provided?
Pickup is arranged from your accommodation, airport, or agreed meeting point in Tangier, depending on the itinerary. The tour finishes in Tangier; the exact drop-off is confirmed when you book.
What type of vehicle is used?
Transportation is provided in a private air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan. For larger groups, a minibus can be arranged. Vehicle type and group capacity are confirmed before travel.
Can you accommodate dietary requirements?
Yes. Share your dietary preferences when booking so the riads, hotels, and desert camp can prepare suitable meals. Vegetarian, vegan, halal, and other common requirements can be discussed in advance.
Is this itinerary suitable for all ages?
Yes, although some days include long drives of up to about 45 hours. Regular stops are planned, and travelers who prefer shorter driving days can request a longer or customized itinerary.
When is the best time to take this tour?
Spring and autumn generally offer comfortable conditions across Morocco. Winter can also be excellent for the southern desert, while mountain areas may be colder; your route can be adapted to the season.
