8-Day Tangier to Marrakech Tour Overview
Comprehensive Journey Through Northern Morocco to the Sahara DesertThis expertly crafted itinerary provides the perfect balance of cultural exploration, natural wonders, and desert adventure, showcasing the incredible diversity of Morocco in 8 unforgettable days.
The 8-day tour from Tangier to Marrakech covers approximately 1,500 kilometers through Morocco's most spectacular regions. This comprehensive itinerary allows for a more leisurely pace with deeper exploration at each destination compared to shorter tours. You'll travel in a private air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle with an experienced driver/guide who will provide cultural insights and historical context throughout your journey. Accommodations are carefully selected to enhance your experience, ranging from comfortable hotels and traditional riads to a memorable night in a desert camp under the Sahara stars.
This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a complete Moroccan experience, from the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen to the golden dunes of the Sahara, from ancient medinas to Hollywood film sets. The extended 8-day duration allows for more immersive experiences and comfortable travel times between destinations. For more information about Morocco's diverse regions, visit the Wikipedia page on Geography of Morocco.
8-Day Tangier to Marrakech Tour Itinerary
Detailed day-by-day itinerary of your comprehensive Morocco adventureDay 1: Tangier ⇢ Chefchaouen
Tangier Departure & Scenic Drive
Meet your driver/guide in Tangier at your accommodation, the port, or airport. Begin your journey south towards the Rif Mountains. Enjoy scenic views as you travel through the mountainous landscape. The drive takes approximately 3 hours to reach your destination. Along the way, you'll see traditional Berber villages and agricultural landscapes characteristic of northern Morocco. Stop for photos at scenic viewpoints overlooking the Rif Mountains.
Chefchaouen Arrival & Exploration
Arrive in the enchanting blue city of Chefchaouen in the early afternoon. Check into your hotel or riad, then begin exploring this magical town. Wander through the picturesque blue-washed streets of the medina, discovering hidden corners, small squares, and artisan shops. Visit the Kasbah Museum in the central square (Outa el Hammam), and climb to the Spanish Mosque for panoramic views of the blue city against the mountain backdrop. Chefchaouen is particularly photogenic in the afternoon light. Evening at leisure to enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and experience the peaceful atmosphere as the blue walls take on different hues in the fading light.
Day 2: Chefchaouen ⇢ Fes
Chefchaouen Morning Exploration
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Chefchaouen. You might choose to explore more of the blue medina, do some shopping for local handicrafts (the town is known for its wool garments, woven blankets, and leather goods), visit the local waterfall, or simply enjoy breakfast with a view. The morning light offers excellent photographic opportunities. After check-out, begin your journey to Fes, traveling through the scenic Rif Mountains and towards the plains that lead to Morocco's spiritual and cultural capital.
Arrival in Fes & Initial Exploration
Arrive in Fes in the afternoon and check into your accommodation, typically a traditional riad in or near the medina. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity for an initial orientation walk in the vicinity of your accommodation. Your driver/guide can point out key landmarks and recommend dining options. Evening at leisure to relax after your journey or take an initial stroll around your neighborhood. Fes offers numerous dining options, from traditional Moroccan restaurants to international cuisine.
Day 3: Fes Full Day Exploration
Fes Medina Guided Tour
After breakfast, meet your local guide for a full-day exploration of Fes el-Bali, the ancient medina and UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Royal Palace gates with their magnificent brass doors and intricate zellij tilework. Explore the Jewish Quarter (Mellah) and the Jewish Cemetery. Visit panoramic viewpoints overlooking the medina. Enter the medina through Bab Bou Jeloud (the Blue Gate) and begin your exploration of the labyrinthine streets, visiting artisan workshops and historical sites.
Cultural Sites & Souks
Continue your medina exploration, visiting the Al-Attarine Madrasa, a beautifully decorated Islamic school. See the Kairaouine Mosque and University, founded in 859 AD and considered the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Visit the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts and the Nejjarine Fountain. Explore the famous tanneries (Chouara Tannery) where leather is still processed using traditional methods. Visit artisan workshops specializing in pottery, metalwork, and textiles. Evening at leisure to explore on your own or enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant.
Day 4: Fes ⇢ Ifrane ⇢ Middle Atlas Mountains ⇢ Ziz Valley ⇢ Merzouga Desert
Fes to Middle Atlas Mountains
After an early breakfast, depart Fes and begin your journey south towards the Sahara Desert. Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane, known as "Little Switzerland" for its alpine-style architecture and cooler climate. Visit the Cedre Gouraud Forest to see the ancient cedar trees and possibly spot Barbary macaques (wild monkeys). Continue through the mountain towns of Azrou and Midelt, with scenic views of the Atlas Mountains. Stop for lunch in Midelt, known as the "apple capital" of Morocco.
Ziz Valley to Merzouga Desert
Descend from the mountains into the spectacular Ziz Valley, a vast oasis with millions of palm trees stretching as far as the eye can see. Stop at viewpoints to admire the breathtaking scenery. Continue through the changing landscape as you approach the Sahara Desert, with the terrain becoming increasingly arid. Arrive at the edge of the Merzouga dunes in the late afternoon. Here, you'll transfer from your vehicle to camels for a magical ride into the dunes to watch the sunset over the golden sands.
Sahara Desert Camp Experience
Arrive at your traditional Berber desert camp as the stars begin to appear in the darkening sky. Settle into your private tent equipped with comfortable beds and basic amenities. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars, often accompanied by Berber music around a campfire. Experience the profound silence and incredible starry sky of the Sahara Desert – one of the best places in the world for stargazing. This is a truly magical experience that many consider the highlight of their Moroccan journey.
Day 5: Merzouga Desert ⇢ Rissani ⇢ Todra Gorge ⇢ Dades Valley
Desert Sunrise & Journey to Rissani
Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Sahara dunes (optional but highly recommended). Watch as the first rays of sunlight paint the dunes in shades of gold and orange. After breakfast at the camp, enjoy a camel ride back to the edge of the dunes where your vehicle awaits. Travel to Rissani, the traditional capital of the Tafilalet region and the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty, the current ruling family of Morocco. Visit the lively traditional market (souk) if it's market day (Tuesday, Thursday, or Sunday), where you can see local crafts, spices, and livestock trading.
Todra Gorge to Dades Valley
Continue to the spectacular Todra Gorge, where the river has carved a 300-meter deep canyon through the mountains. Walk along the river at the base of the cliffs, admiring the dramatic rock formations and watching local climbers scale the vertical walls. After lunch in the area, travel through the Dades Valley, known as the "Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs" for its numerous fortified earthen buildings. Stop at viewpoints to see the remarkable "monkey fingers" rock formations and traditional kasbahs. Arrive at your accommodation in the Dades Valley for overnight, often with beautiful views of the valley.
Day 6: Dades Valley ⇢ Skoura ⇢ Ouarzazate
Dades Valley Exploration & Route of a Thousand Kasbahs
After breakfast, continue your journey through the Dades Valley, stopping at additional viewpoints to admire the dramatic landscapes. Travel along the famous "Road of a Thousand Kasbahs," passing numerous traditional fortified villages. Visit Skoura, a beautiful palm oasis with several well-preserved kasbahs, including the impressive Kasbah Amridil, which has been restored and is open to visitors. Explore the palm groves and learn about traditional oasis agriculture.
Arrival in Ouarzazate
Continue to Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Africa" for its film studios and numerous movie productions. Visit the Taourirt Kasbah, once one of the largest kasbahs in Morocco and the former residence of the Glaoui family. Explore the labyrinthine passages and rooms of this impressive earthen structure. Optionally visit the Atlas Film Studios where many famous movies were filmed, including "Gladiator," "Lawrence of Arabia," and "Game of Thrones." Check into your accommodation in Ouarzazate and evening at leisure.
Day 7: Ouarzazate ⇢ Ait Ben Haddou ⇢ High Atlas Mountains ⇢ Marrakech
Ait Ben Haddou UNESCO Site
After breakfast, travel to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, the most famous kasbah in Morocco and a backdrop for numerous films including "Gladiator," "Lawrence of Arabia," and "Game of Thrones." Walk through the ancient fortified village, crossing the river (dry most of the year) to enter the kasbah. Explore the narrow streets and climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Learn about the history of this remarkable example of southern Moroccan architecture and its significance in film history.
High Atlas Mountains Crossing
After lunch, begin your ascent through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260 meters), the highest mountain pass in Morocco. Enjoy spectacular views of the mountains, Berber villages, and changing landscapes along the way. Stop at viewpoints for photos and to appreciate the dramatic scenery. Visit a traditional Berber village or a cooperative along the route to learn about local life and crafts. The journey through the mountains is as much a highlight as the destinations themselves.
Arrival in Marrakech
Descend from the High Atlas Mountains to arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon. Check into your accommodation, typically a riad in or near the medina. Your driver/guide will provide recommendations for dining and sightseeing. Evening free to experience the famous Djemaa el-Fna square as it comes alive with food stalls, storytellers, musicians, snake charmers, and entertainers – a truly unforgettable sensory experience that captures the essence of Marrakech.
Day 8: Marrakech Exploration & Departure
Marrakech Highlights Tour
After breakfast, explore Marrakech with a local guide (optional, can be arranged at additional cost). Visit the Koutoubia Mosque with its distinctive minaret, the Bahia Palace with its beautiful gardens and intricate decoration, the Saadian Tombs rediscovered in 1917, and the Ben Youssef Madrasa, once the largest Islamic college in Morocco. Explore the souks specializing in leather, metalwork, textiles, and spices. Visit the Majorelle Garden, created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later owned by Yves Saint Laurent.
Departure or Extended Stay
After your Marrakech exploration, transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your 8-day Tangier to Marrakech tour. Alternatively, if you have extended your stay in Morocco, you'll be dropped off at your Marrakech accommodation. This comprehensive tour has taken you through the most iconic regions of Morocco, from the blue city of Chefchaouen to the Sahara Desert, through ancient medinas and over majestic mountain passes, providing a deep and unforgettable experience of Morocco's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
8-Day Tour Highlights
Experience the best of Morocco's diverse landscapes and cultural heritageChefchaouen Blue City
Magical blue-washed streets in the Rif Mountains
Fes Imperial City
UNESCO World Heritage medieval medina & oldest university
Middle Atlas Mountains
Scenic landscapes, cedar forests & Ifrane
Ziz Valley Oasis
Spectacular palm-filled valley landscape
Merzouga Sahara Desert
Golden dunes, camel trek & overnight desert camp
Rissani Traditional Market
Authentic souk experience in desert town
Todra Gorge
Dramatic 300-meter deep canyon walk
Dades Valley
"Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs" & rock formations
Skoura Oasis
Beautiful palm oasis with historic kasbahs
Ouarzazate
"Hollywood of Africa" & Taourirt Kasbah
Ait Ben Haddou
UNESCO World Heritage site & film location
High Atlas Mountains
Tizi n'Tichka Pass scenic drive
Camel Trek Experience
Traditional Sahara desert camel ride
Desert Camp Overnight
Berber camp under the Sahara stars
Complete Morocco Circuit
From north to south through diverse landscapes
Cultural Immersion
Authentic experiences with local communities
What's Included / Not Included
Complete details for your 8-day Tangier to Marrakech tour package- Pick-up from Tangier accommodation/port/airport
- Private transportation with A/C 4x4 vehicle throughout
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- 7 nights accommodation (hotels, riads & desert camp)
- All breakfasts during the tour
- 1 dinner at the desert camp (Day 4)
- Camel trek in Merzouga desert (one per person)
- Overnight in traditional Berber desert camp
- Local guide in Fes for medina tour (half day)
- Hotel/desert camp taxes and service charges
- Drop-off at Marrakech accommodation/airport
- International flights to/from Morocco
- Lunches and most dinners (except specified)
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Tips for guides, drivers, and camp staff
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Optional activities not mentioned in itinerary
- Entrance fees to museums & historical sites
- Local guide in Marrakech (optional)
- Visa fees if applicable to your nationality
Practical Details
Important information for your 8-day Tangier to Marrakech tourFrequently Asked Questions
About our 8-day Tangier to Marrakech comprehensive tourThe 8-day tour offers a more comprehensive and relaxed experience compared to the 5-day version. Key differences include: Full day in Fes with guided medina tour (vs. just an overnight), additional night in Fes allowing for deeper exploration, visit to Skoura oasis (not included in 5-day), more time in Dades Valley and surrounding areas, additional night in Ouarzazate allowing exploration of film studios and kasbahs, more leisurely pace with less daily driving, optional Marrakech guided tour on final day, and generally more immersive experiences at each destination. The 8-day tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience Morocco more deeply without feeling rushed.
This tour uses comfortable, air-conditioned 4x4 vehicles (typically Toyota Prado, Land Cruiser, or similar) suitable for all road conditions encountered during the journey. The vehicles are well-maintained and equipped for long-distance travel. For groups of 2-3 travelers, a SUV-style 4x4 is used. For groups of 4-6 travelers, a larger 4x4 or minivan with 4x4 capability may be used. All vehicles have air conditioning, comfortable seating, and space for luggage. The 4x4 capability is particularly useful for accessing the desert camp and some remote areas, though most of the journey is on paved roads. Your driver/guide is experienced in navigating Moroccan roads and conditions.
Yes, this tour can be customized in numerous ways. Popular customizations include: adding extra nights in specific cities (particularly Fes or Marrakech), upgrading accommodations to luxury hotels or premium desert camps, extending the tour to include Essaouira on the coast, adding more time in the desert (additional activities like quad biking or sandboarding), including a visit to Meknes and Volubilis, adjusting the pace for a more leisurely experience, or combining with other Morocco tours. The tour can also be taken in reverse direction (from Marrakech to Tangier). Since this is a private tour, we can work with you to create an itinerary that matches your interests, pace, and budget. The tour can also be extended to 10-14 days for an even more comprehensive Morocco experience.
Packing for this tour requires consideration of multiple climates: Comfortable walking shoes for medina exploration, sturdy closed shoes for desert and gorge walking, sandals for around accommodations, layered clothing (temperatures vary greatly – from cool mountains to hot desert), warm jacket for desert nights and mountain passes, lightweight clothing for daytime in desert and cities, modest clothing for visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered), sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen), headscarf or shemagh for desert sun/sand protection, swimsuit (some hotels have pools), personal toiletries and medications, camera with extra batteries/memory cards, power adapter (Morocco uses European plugs Type C/E), headlamp or flashlight for desert camp, reusable water bottle, and small daypack for daily excursions.
Yes, this tour is generally suitable for families with children aged 8 and above. The camel trek can be adjusted for children (shorter rides or alternative transportation to camp). The desert camp experience is often particularly memorable for children. However, considerations include: long driving days (though broken up with stops), moderate walking in medinas and gorges, climate variations that children may find challenging, basic facilities at desert camp, and different food that may not appeal to all children. We recommend discussing your family's specific needs when booking so we can suggest adjustments. Some families prefer to add extra nights to reduce daily travel time. Children under 8 can be accommodated with careful planning and potentially modified activities.