Overview
Embark on Morocco’s ultimate classic route with our “Northern Gateway to Southern Magic: 6-Day Tangier to Marrakech Tour”. This comprehensive private adventure begins in cosmopolitan Tangier, winds through the Rif Mountains to the enchanting Blue City of Chefchaouen, explores the medieval wonders of imperial Fes, immerses you in the golden dunes of the Sahara at Merzouga, and returns via the dramatic Todra & Dades Gorges, the fragrant Rose Valley, and the legendary UNESCO site of Ait Ben Haddou — concluding in vibrant Marrakech, perfect for onward flights.
Designed for travelers seeking the full spectrum of Morocco — from coastal culture and mountain serenity to desert mystique and cinematic southern landscapes — this small-group private tour (max 8 participants) includes air-conditioned 4×4 transportation, expert English-speaking guides, comfortable riads/hotels, and a luxury desert camp experience. Priced from $1,350 per person (double occupancy), it’s the ideal way to experience Morocco’s most iconic highlights in just six unforgettable days.
Here are mesmerizing views of Chefchaouen’s iconic blue medina:
Highlights
- Chefchaouen — Wander the dreamlike blue-washed streets and hidden alleys of the Rif Mountains’ jewel
- Fes Medina — Discover the world’s largest car-free medieval city, including the famous Chouara Tanneries
- Merzouga Sahara — Sunset camel trek across towering Erg Chebbi dunes + overnight in a luxury desert camp
- Todra & Dades Gorges — Dramatic canyons, river walks, and stunning rock formations
- Valley of the Roses & Dades — Fragrant rose fields, traditional kasbahs, and Berber village charm
- Ait Ben Haddou — UNESCO-listed clay fortress, a masterpiece of earthen architecture and Hollywood backdrop
- High Atlas Crossing — Scenic mountain pass with panoramic views en route to Marrakech
Capture the magic of the Sahara at sunset:
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tangier – Chefchaouen Blue Pearl (≈120 km / 2–3 hours)
Arrive at Tangier airport/ferry port and meet your private driver-guide. Enjoy a short panoramic tour of Tangier: Kasbah viewpoint over the Strait of Gibraltar, Grand Socco, and medina vibes.
Drive through lush Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen. Check into your charming riad and spend the afternoon/evening exploring the azure streets, shopping for crafts, and soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere. Welcome dinner with local specialties. Overnight in Chefchaouen.
Day 2: Chefchaouen Exploration – Volubilis – Meknes – Fes (≈280 km / 5 hours)
Morning guided walk in Chefchaouen: Ras el Maa waterfall, Spanish Mosque viewpoint, and photogenic blue alleys.
Depart for Volubilis Roman ruins (UNESCO) — wander among stunning mosaics and arches. Quick stop in imperial Meknes at the grand Bab Mansour gate.
Arrive in Fes by evening and settle into a luxurious riad in the heart of the medina. Overnight in Fes.
The iconic Chouara Tanneries in Fes — a feast for the senses:
Day 3: Full Day in Fes – Medieval Medina Mastery
Immerse yourself in Fes el-Bali: guided tour of Bou Inania Madrasa, Al-Qarawiyyin University (oldest in the world), Nejjarine Museum, royal palaces (exterior), and the mesmerizing Chouara Tanneries.
Lunch in a traditional restaurant; afternoon free for souk exploration or riad relaxation. Overnight in Fes.
Day 4: Fes to Merzouga Sahara Desert (≈460 km / 7–8 hours)
Early departure through Middle Atlas: stops in Ifrane, Azrou cedar forests (Barbary macaques), and Ziz Valley palm oases.
Arrive Merzouga late afternoon. Camel trek into Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset. Reach your luxury desert camp — private tents with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, Berber dinner, music, and incredible stargazing. Overnight in the desert.
Enjoy the serene luxury of a traditional desert camp:
Day 5: Sahara Sunrise – Todra & Dades Gorges – Rose Valley (≈300 km / 5–6 hours)
Sunrise over the dunes, breakfast at camp, then camel/4×4 return to Merzouga.
Drive to Todra Gorge — walk along towering limestone cliffs and river. Continue to Dades Gorge & Valley of the Roses — dramatic landscapes, rose plantations, and traditional kasbahs. Overnight in a scenic riad in the Dades area.
Experience the breathtaking drama of Todra Gorge:
Day 6: Dades – Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – Marrakech (≈350 km / 6–7 hours)
Morning drive to Ouarzazate (“Hollywood of the Desert”). Visit Ait Ben Haddou kasbah — a UNESCO masterpiece of earthen architecture and film location (Gladiator, Game of Thrones).
Cross the scenic Tizi n’Tichka High Atlas pass with panoramic views. Arrive Marrakech late afternoon. Transfer to your hotel, airport, or train station. End of tour services.
The timeless beauty of Ait Ben Haddou kasbah:
What is Included
- Private air-conditioned 4×4/minivan throughout
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- 5 nights accommodation (riads/hotels + 1 luxury desert camp)
- Daily breakfast + 4 dinners (including desert)
- Camel trek & desert activities
- All guided tours and entrance fees (Volubilis, tanneries, Ait Ben Haddou, etc.)
- Bottled water during drives
What is Not Included
- International flights
- Lunches (≈$10–15 per day)
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Personal expenses, tips, drinks
- Optional activities (quad biking, etc.)
Why Choose This Tour
This 6-day itinerary is Morocco’s most complete classic route in a compact timeframe: northern culture, medieval heritage, epic desert experience, and cinematic southern landscapes — all culminating in Marrakech. Private service, authentic encounters, comfortable pacing, and expert guiding ensure an unforgettable, hassle-free adventure.
FAQ
Q: Is the driving too long on some days?
A: Days 4 & 6 are the longest (7–8 hours), but include scenic stops, breaks, and beautiful landscapes — most guests find them enjoyable.
Q: Best season for this tour?
A: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer perfect weather across all regions.
Q: Dietary needs?
A: Vegetarian, vegan, and other options available — please advise at booking.
Q: Can I extend in Marrakech?
A: Yes — we can arrange extra nights, riad stays, or guided Marrakech tours.
This journey captures the complete soul of Morocco — from blue mountains to golden dunes to red earth kasbahs. Ready to experience it all?