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ITINERARY
DAY 1: TANGIER → CHEFCHAOUEN
Your 5-day Morocco tour from Tangier opens with a friendly welcome at Tangier airport, one of its ports, or your hotel. Our local guide greets you and accompanies you from the very first moment.
We then make our way south to the enchanting mountain town of Chefchaouen, wrapped in the scenic folds of the Rif Mountains. On arrival, check into your hotel or riad and let the afternoon unfold at your own pace. The town’s signature blue-washed architecture creates one of the most photogenic streetscapes in all of Africa — wander the narrow medina lanes, browse the artisan markets, or settle into a terrace cafe with a glass of mint tea and authentic Moroccan food.
As evening falls, retreat to your riad and wind down after a fulfilling opening day in Chefchaouen.
Overnight in a riad/hotel in Chefchaouen.
DAY 2: CHEFCHAOUEN → FES
After a leisurely breakfast at your riad, we head east toward the ancient imperial city of Fes.
A knowledgeable local guide meets you on arrival and leads you into the medieval Medina — a labyrinth of lanes, workshops, and monuments that feel entirely untouched by the modern world. Explore its storied corners, absorb the layers of history, and admire the intricate craftsmanship that defines every doorway and fountain. Lunch in the Medina is an excellent opportunity to savour the real flavours and aromas of traditional Moroccan cuisine.
By evening, your charming riad in the heart of the Fes Medina provides a tranquil base. Take time to settle in, relax, and absorb the atmosphere of one of the world’s great medieval cities.
Overnight in a riad in Fes Medina.
DAY 3: FES → IFRANE → MIDDLE ATLAS MOUNTAINS → ZIZ VALLEY → MERZOUGA DESERT
Breakfast at your riad marks the start of your desert drive. We head south toward Merzouga and the legendary Erg Chebbi dunes, with a scenic stop in Ifrane — a mountain town of unexpected European appearance, often called Morocco’s Switzerland for its clean alpine aesthetic.
Continuing south, the road climbs through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas, where Barbary macaques scramble through the branches in plain sight of passing vehicles. A well-chosen restaurant provides a satisfying midday break before we descend into the Ziz Valley — a long, shimmering palm-grove oasis that appears like a mirage in the pre-desert landscape.
By late afternoon we arrive at the edge of the desert. Camels and their guides are ready. The caravan moves into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi, cresting a high ridge just as the sun sinks below the horizon in a blaze of orange and crimson. At camp, tea awaits, followed by a generous dinner, a crackling bonfire, and live Berber drumming beneath a night sky crammed with stars.
Overnight in a luxury desert camp, Merzouga.
DAY 4: MERZOUGA DESERT → RISSANI → TODRA GORGE → DADES VALLEY
An early alarm is rewarded by one of the great desert spectacles — sunrise over Erg Chebbi, the dune crests turning pink and gold as light spills across the sand. After breakfast, choose to return to Merzouga by camel or by 4×4 — your guide will have both options ready.
The drive west takes us through Rissani, a historically significant town that served as a hub on the old trans-Saharan caravan routes and birthplace of Morocco’s reigning royal dynasty. On souk days (Sunday, Tuesday, or Thursday) the market is an atmospheric tangle of traders and goods. Further west, the walls of the Todra Gorge close in overhead — a dramatic natural canyon where the Todra River has cut its way through 300 metres of rose-coloured rock. The walk through is short but spectacular.
We arrive in the Dades Valley by late afternoon. Before checking in, a brief drive up-valley reveals the extraordinary “monkey fingers” — geological columns of eroded sandstone rising from the canyon floor in shapes that seem almost deliberately sculpted. Dinner and an early night prepare you for the final push to Marrakech.
Overnight in a hotel in the Dades Valley.
DAY 5: DADES VALLEY → OUARZAZATE → AIT BEN HADDOU → HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS → MARRAKECH
The last day of your 5 day Tangier to Marrakech tour begins with a drive to Ouarzazate — the sun-drenched city known worldwide as the Hollywood of Africa and the Gateway to the Desert. At Atlas Studios, the largest film production facility in Morocco, you can walk through sets from dozens of major productions — an optional stop that surprises many visitors.
From Ouarzazate we head to Ait Ben Haddou, the UNESCO-listed earthen city whose towers and alleyways have appeared in The Mummy, Prince of Persia, and — most famously — Game of Thrones. Allow time to explore its layered architecture and the sweeping views from the upper citadel.
After a relaxed lunch in a local restaurant, the High Atlas Mountains provide a grand finale. The Tizi n’Tichka route winds up through villages perched on cliff edges and descends through panoramic valleys, delivering you to Marrakech in the late afternoon. We drop you at your hotel or riad, marking the end of your 5 days tour from Tangier to Marrakech .
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the ideal times to visit. The weather is comfortably warm, making it perfect for exploring the Imperial Cities, trekking in the mountains, or experiencing the desert. Summer can be extremely hot in the south, while winter brings chilly nights, particularly in the Sahara and the High Atlas.
Citizens of the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and most European countries do not need a visa to enter Morocco for tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days. You only need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry. Always check with your local Moroccan consulate for the most up-to-date requirements.
The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). While large hotels, modern restaurants, and bigger shops in cities accept Visa and Mastercard, Morocco is still largely a cash-based society. You will need cash for the medinas, local markets, tipping, and travel in remote areas like the desert or mountains. ATMs are widely available in all major towns.
Yes, Morocco is widely considered one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists. Violent crime is rare. However, like in any major tourist destination, you should practice common sense. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded souks to avoid pickpockets, and use registered guides for medina tours and remote treks.
The official languages are Arabic and Amazigh (Berber). French is the second, widely spoken language used in business and tourism. English is increasingly common in major tourist hubs, hotels, and among younger generations, but learning a few basic Arabic or French phrases is always highly appreciated by locals.
Morocco is a conservative, predominantly Muslim country, and dressing modestly shows respect for the local culture. Both men and women should aim to cover their shoulders and knees. Loose, lightweight clothing is ideal for staying cool while remaining respectful. In more modern cities like Marrakech, dress codes are relaxed, but modesty is strictly advised in rural villages and the medinas.
With a few exceptions, non-Muslims are generally not permitted to enter active mosques in Morocco. The most notable exception is the spectacular Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, which offers guided tours to all visitors.
Yes, tipping (baksheesh) is an established part of Moroccan culture and is highly appreciated for good service. A general rule is to leave 10% to 15% in restaurants. For drivers and tour guides, tipping around 50 to 100 MAD per person, per day is a standard guideline depending on your satisfaction.
Haggling is an expected and enjoyable part of shopping in Moroccan souks. When you ask for a price, expect the vendor’s first offer to be high. Counter with about a third or half of that price, and negotiate until you meet in the middle. Always negotiate with a smile and a friendly attitude.
While Morocco is an Islamic country, alcohol is legal and available. You can purchase it in licensed bars, hotels, large supermarkets, and tourist-focused restaurants. Drinking in public spaces outside of these licensed venues is not permitted.
To truly enjoy the experience without spending your entire trip in a vehicle, a minimum of 3 days and 2 nights is recommended for a desert tour starting from Marrakech to the Merzouga dunes (Erg Chebbi). If you have more time, a 4-day trip allows for a more relaxed pace to explore the Kasbahs, gorges, and valleys along the way.
Bring comfortable, breathable clothing for daytime camel trekking and a warm fleece or jacket for the night, as desert temperatures drop significantly after sunset. Essential items include sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, closed-toe walking shoes, and a small daypack for your overnight items.
Erg Chebbi (near Merzouga) features the highest, most iconic dunes and is easily accessible by paved roads, making it a popular choice. Erg Chigaga (near Zagora/M’Hamid) offers a wilder, more remote experience that requires off-road 4×4 driving to reach, appealing to those looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
We offer trekking experiences for all levels. Gentle day hikes through Berber villages require only basic fitness and a good pair of walking shoes. Multi-day ascents, such as climbing Mount Toubkal, require a good level of physical stamina and proper hiking gear, though no technical climbing skills are needed in the warmer months.
Absolutely. Moroccans love children, and family travel is highly welcomed. Desert camps, camel rides, and short walks in the Atlas Mountains are fantastic experiences for kids. We can customize the pace of the itinerary, limit driving times, and ensure family-friendly accommodations for your comfort.
For maximum flexibility and comfort, hiring a private driver is the most highly recommended way to travel. It allows you to stop at scenic viewpoints, hidden Kasbahs, and local cooperatives at your own pace. For budget travelers, Morocco’s rail network (including the high-speed Al Boraq train) efficiently connects major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, and Fes.
While tap water in major cities is treated, it has different mineral contents that can upset a traveler’s stomach. It is highly recommended to stick to sealed bottled water or use a filtered water bottle for drinking and brushing your teeth.
Morocco operates on a 220V supply voltage and uses standard European two-pin round plugs (Type C and Type E). If you are traveling from the US, UK, or Australia, you will need a universal travel adapter.
Wi-Fi is widely available for free in most hotels, riads, and cafes across the country. If you want continuous access on the road, you can easily purchase an inexpensive local prepaid SIM card (from providers like Maroc Telecom, Orange, or Inwi) at the airport upon arrival.
Moroccan cuisine is world-renowned. Must-try dishes include Tagine (a slow-cooked savory stew made with meat, poultry, or fish), Couscous (traditionally served on Fridays), Pastilla (a sweet and savory meat pie), and Harira (a rich tomato and lentil soup). Meals are almost always accompanied by the famous Moroccan sweet mint tea.
