8-Day Morocco Desert Tour from Marrakech

After breakfast, we explore Ouarzazate, starting with the Atlas Studios where many movies were filmed. We’ll also visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a historic mud castle. Then, we drive east to the beautiful Amridil Kasbah, nestled within the lush Skoura Palm Groves. We continue to Kalaa Magouna, famous for its Rose Valley, where the annual Rose Festival takes place in May. Afterward, we head to the stunning Dades Valley, stopping at the unique “Monkey Fingers” rock formation and a viewpoint overlooking the valley. Dinner and overnight stay are in Boumalne Dades.

Following breakfast, we visit the awe-inspiring Todra Gorges, where the Todra River carved out a grand canyon with towering red cliffs. Take some time to enjoy this incredible scenery. Then, we drive through Touroug and Tinjdad palm groves, stopping for lunch along the way. In the afternoon, we reach the mesmerizing Merzouga Sahara Desert. Here, you’ll experience the thrill of riding camels across the dunes. We'll stop to witness a breathtaking desert sunset before continuing to our luxury desert camp. You’ll enjoy Berber drum music and dance around the campfire under the stars. Dinner and overnight stay are in the camp.

We start early to witness a magical sunrise over the desert dunes. After breakfast, we ride camels back to Merzouga. Today, you’ll explore the amazing sights of Merzouga, including sand dunes, a wild lake, mines, fossil areas, and oases. First, we visit an ancient eyeliner mine. Then, we meet nomadic families in their traditional tents and learn about their unique lifestyle over a cup of Berber tea. Next, we head to Khamlia village to enjoy vibrant Gnaoua music and dancing. After lunch, we take a stroll through a peaceful palm grove and visit the wild lake (also known as the flamingos lake). Finally, we return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

After breakfast, we leave the desert and visit Rissani, the old capital of Tafilalet, where you can explore its lively souks. We continue to Erfoud, known for its fossilized marble workshops. We drive along the scenic Ziz River, stopping to admire views of the Ziz Valley. Enjoy lunch in Midelt. Then, we visit the enchanting cedar forest, home to playful Barbary macaques – you can even feed them! After that, we head to Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its cool climate and charming alpine-style houses. Finally, we arrive at your accommodation in Fez.

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Fez, one of Morocco’s most historic cities. We'll start by visiting the Royal Palace gate and then explore the well-preserved Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enter through Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate) and visit Medrasa Bouanania, the Najjarine fountain, the fascinating tanneries, and the Quaraouin Mosque and University – one of the oldest universities in the world. Next, we’ll explore the Jewish Quarter (Mellah) and head to an ancient fortress for panoramic views of the city. Finally, return to your riad to relax and end the day.

After breakfast, we depart for Meknes, a former Ismaili capital and one of Morocco’s imperial cities. In Meknes, we visit Bab Al-Mansour, the Sahrij Souani basin, the Royal stables, the granary, and the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum. After some free time for lunch, we head to the ancient Volubilis ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved mosaics, pillars, and archways. After exploring the ruins, we continue to Chefchaouen, the famous Blue City in the Rif Mountains, renowned for its blue-painted buildings and picturesque streets. Dinner and overnight stay are in a hotel.

Following breakfast, you’ll have free time to wander through the beautiful streets of Chefchaouen. Then, we drive through the scenic Rif Mountains to Tangier, where we will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. This marks the end of your 8-day Fundamental Morocco tour!