10 days Grand tour from fes to tangier
About This Tour
This is an ambitious and incredibly comprehensive 10-Day Moroccan Odyssey designed for travelers who want to see the maximum diversity of the country. The tour is structured in three major phases: 1. Imperial Fes and Sahara Traverse (Days 1-5); 2. Imperial Marrakech and the Atlantic Coast (Days 5-8); and 3. Northern Imperial/Blue Cities (Days 8-10). It successfully connects all major geographic regions, including the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara, the gorges, the Atlantic coast, and the Mediterranean-influenced north, concluding with a departure from Tangier.
Customization Note: At DesertGateTours, we craft unforgettable Moroccan experiences. If our standard tours don’t match your vision, we’ll design one that does.
Contact us to share your dream trip, and we’ll create a custom itinerary tailored to your interests, pace, and budget. Your perfect Moroccan adventure awaits—we’re here to make it real.
Highlights:
- Exploring the medinas of Fes and Essaouira, and the fortified village of Aït Ben Haddou.
- A classic camel trek and night in a luxury camp, plus a dedicated 4*4 day for Gnawa music and meeting nomads.
- Full-day guided tours of both Fes and Marrakech (including the Majorelle Garden and Jemaa El-Fna).
- Visiting the laid-back, art-filled port of Essaouira and the modern economic capital of Casablanca (Hassan II Mosque).
- Time to explore the iconic, enchanting blue streets of Chefchaouen.
- Traversing the Middle Atlas (Barbary macaques), walking the colossal Todra Gorges, and crossing the dramatic Tizi-N-Tichka Pass in the High Atlas.
- Touring the historical landmarks of Rabat (Hassan Tower, Mausoleum of Mohammed V).
Program Itinerary
Arrival in Fes – The Imperial Medina
Welcome to Morocco! Upon arrival in Fes, you will be transferred to your Riad. Later, join a local guide to uncover the secrets of this ancient imperial city. Your tour will navigate the sprawling, UNESCO-protected medina, entering through the iconic Blue Gate. You’ll discover architectural marvels like the Medrasa Bouanania, the historic Najjarine Fountain, and the famous tanneries. The day concludes with a visit to a hilltop fortress for stunning panoramic views.
Fes to Merzouga Desert – Middle Atlas and Ziz Valley
After breakfast, we journey south towards the Sahara. Our route takes us through Ifrane, a unique alpine-style town, and into the cedar forests of the Atlas Mountains, where you can meet the local Barbary macaques. Afterward, passing through the scenic Ziz Valley with its vast ribbon of palm groves, you’ll reach the edge of the Sahara. Here, trade your vehicle for a camel and trek across the golden dunes to witness a magnificent desert sunset before arriving at your luxury desert camp for the night.
Merzouga & Surroundings – 4*4 Exploration
Wake early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara. After breakfast, you’ll begin a 4*4 exploration of the region. Today’s adventure includes sharing mint tea with a nomadic family in their tent, visiting the village of Khamlia to experience powerful Gnaoua music, and seeing the sanctuary for migratory birds at the seasonal Lake of Merzouga. You will spend the night in a comfortable local hotel.
Merzouga to Dades Valley – Fossils and Gorges
Leaving the desert behind, our first stop is the historic town of Rissani to explore its lively traditional market. We then continue to Erfoud, a town famous for its fossil workshops. The journey leads to the spectacular Todra Gorges, where you can walk between the towering 300 meter-high canyon walls. From there, we proceed to the Dades Valley, admiring the unique “monkey fingers” rock formations before settling into your hotel for the evening.
Dades Valley to Marrakech – Kasbahs and High Atlas
Today’s route travels through the Valley of Roses, famous for its fragrant blossoms. The journey continues to Ouarzazate, the gateway to the desert, and on to the highlight of the day: the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Ben Haddou. After exploring this iconic fortified village, we will embark on the dramatic drive over the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-N-Tichka pass, arriving in the vibrant city of Marrakech in the evening.
Marrakech – History, Gardens, and Souks
Immerse yourself in the “Red City” with a full-day guided tour. You will discover the opulent Bahia Palace, the historic Saadian Tombs, and the labyrinthine alleys of the city’s largest souk. After time for lunch near the bustling Jemaa El-Fna square, you’ll visit the iconic Koutoubia Mosque and the serene Majorelle Garden. Your evening is free to experience the magic of Jemaa El-Fna as it comes alive with food stalls and entertainers.
Marrakech to Essaouira – Goats and Sea Breeze
A morning drive takes you west to the charming coastal city of Essaouira. Along the way, we’ll stop to see the famous Argan trees, often with goats climbing their branches. Once in Essaouira, you can explore the historic ramparts, the bustling fishing port, and the relaxed, art-filled alleys of the UNESCO-listed medina. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and laid-back atmosphere of this beautiful port town.
Essaouira to Rabat – Coast, Casablanca, and the Capital
After breakfast, we travel north along the scenic Atlantic coast. Our first stop is Casablanca, Morocco’s economic capital, where you will visit the breathtaking Hassan II Mosque, a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture. Afterward, following a stop at the city’s vibrant seaside corniche, the journey continues to Rabat, the nation’s capital, where you will check in for the night.
Rabat to Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl
Your day begins with a tour of Rabat’s key landmarks, including the historic Hassan Tower, the elegant Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas. Afterwards, we travel north into the Rif Mountains to reach Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl of Morocco.” Spend the afternoon getting lost in its enchanting, blue-washed streets and alleys.
Chefchaouen to Tangier – Departure
Enjoy a final morning in Chefchaouen, perhaps for some last-minute photos or souvenir shopping. Later, a scenic drive through the Rif Mountains will take you to Tangier for your transfer to the airport, concluding your unforgettable Moroccan adventure.
Expedition Media Gallery
A visual glimpse of the spectacular landscapes awaiting you.
Inclusions & Trip Details
What's Included
- Transport in a private, air-conditioned vehicle
- English/French-speaking driver/guide
- 9 nights of accommodation
- Meals: 9 breakfasts and 9 dinners
- Camel trek in the desert
Not Included
- Lunches, drinks, and personal snacks
- Entrance fees to monuments
- Tips for drivers and camp staff
- Travel insurance
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
What luggage and clothing should I pack for this trip?
We recommend comfortable walking shoes for medina cobbles and dunes, loose breathable cotton layers for daytime exploration, and a warm fleece or jacket for crisp desert evenings and mountain passes. Sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera are essential.
Can this itinerary and accommodation level be customized?
Yes, absolutely! Every Desert Gate Tours package is 100% private and customizable. We can adjust the pacing, departure city, hotel tiers (Standard Riads, Comfort Boutique, or 5-Star Luxury Glamping), and add unique stops to match your travel dreams.
Where does pickup and drop-off take place?
We provide seamless door-to-door pickup and drop-off directly from your hotel, riad, or airport in Fes. Your private English-speaking driver/guide will greet you warmly with personalized signage.
Are special dietary requirements catered for?
Yes, all partner riads and our Sahara desert luxury camp chefs cater happily to vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free dietary requirements. Simply let us know your preferences during booking.
How do reservations and deposits work?
After submitting your inquiry, our local travel specialists in Marrakech will confirm availability and send your official itinerary voucher. A modest deposit secures your dates via credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer, with the balance paid safely upon arrival.
