15 days Morocco desert tour from Tangier
About This Tour
This is an exceptional and comprehensive 15-Day Grand Moroccan Circuit that offers a deep, full-loop exploration of the country, starting and concluding in Tangier. The itinerary is perfectly paced, providing multiple nights and dedicated tours in key locations like Chefchaouen, Fes, Marrakech, and Essaouira. It efficiently integrates all of Morocco’s diverse geographies: the Rif Mountains, the Imperial Cities, the High Atlas, the Sahara Desert, the gorges, and the Atlantic coast, ensuring a truly immersive and unforgettable adventure.
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:
- Two nights and a full day exploring the tranquil, iconic blue alleys of Chefchaouen (the Blue Pearl).
- In-depth guided tours of the ancient, UNESCO-listed medinas in Fes (Tanneries, Al-Qarawiyyin) and Marrakech (Djemaa el-Fna, Bahia Palace).
- A full day dedicated to the Erg Chebbi region, including a 4*4 cultural tour (Gnawa music, nomadic tea) and an iconic camel trek to a traditional desert camp for sunset/sunrise.
- Visiting the Roman ruins of Volubilis, the medina of Essaouira, the medina of Fes, and the fortified village of Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou.
- Walking the towering walls of the Todra Gorges, exploring the dramatic Dades Valley, and traversing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass.
- Exploring the historic, relaxed port of Essaouira and visiting the architectural marvel of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
- Traveling through the Middle Atlas (Ifrane, Cedar Forest/Barbary macaques), the green Ziz Valley, and along the beautiful coastal road to Asilah.
- Touring the landmarks of Rabat (Hassan Tower, Kasbah of the Udayas) on the final leg of the circuit.
- A dedicated Free Day in Marrakech allows for personal exploration, relaxation, or optional activities like a cooking class.
Program Itinerary
Tangier to Chefchaouen
Your Moroccan adventure begins upon arrival in Tangier. We will greet you and immediately set a course for the spectacular Rif Mountains. Your destination is Chefchaouen, the famous “Blue Pearl” of Morocco. The scenic drive will transport you from the coastal energy of Tangier to the tranquil mountain air, with the city’s iconic blue-washed walls appearing like a mirage as we approach.
Exploring Chefchaouen
Today is dedicated to discovering the magic of Chefchaouen at your own pace. Lose yourself in its peaceful, cobalt-blue alleyways, photograph its charming doors, and watch local life unfold in the main square, Plaza Uta el-Hammam. You can browse the unique artisan shops for local handicrafts or simply relax at a rooftop café, soaking in the serene atmosphere of this mountain jewel.
Chefchaouen to Fes – Roman Ruins and Imperial Meknes
Journey through history as we depart for Fes. Our first stop is the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can walk amongst stunningly preserved mosaics. Next, we visit the imperial city of Meknes, exploring its monumental gate, Bab Mansour. We end the day in Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart.
Exploring Fes – The Ancient Medina
Prepare for a sensory feast as a local guide leads you through the Fez el-Bali, the city’s ancient, labyrinthine medina. This living museum is a maze of narrow streets, bustling souks, and hidden courtyards. Your tour will include visits to the famous leather tanneries, the intricate Bou Inania Madrasa, and the world’s oldest university, Al-Qarawiyyin.
Fes to Merzouga – Atlas Crossing
Today we travel south, crossing the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains. We’ll pass through Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco,” and the cedar forests of Azrou, where you might spot Barbary macaques. The landscape will dramatically shift as we descend into the Ziz Valley, a vast oasis of palm groves. By late afternoon, you will reach the edge of the Sahara at Merzouga.
Sahara Desert Exploration – Camel Trek & Camp
Immerse yourself in the Sahara today. We’ll explore the Erg Chebbi dunes by 4*4 , visit a nomadic family to share mint tea, and discover the rhythms of Gnawa music in the village of Khamlia. In the late afternoon, you will embark on an iconic camel trek into the dunes to witness a spectacular sunset. Your destination is a traditional Berber desert camp, where you’ll enjoy dinner under a sky blanketed with stars.
Merzouga to Dades Valley – Gorges and Kasbahs
Wake up early to watch a breathtaking desert sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, we travel towards the Dades Valley. Our first stop is the historic market town of Rissani, followed by a journey to the Todra Gorges. Here, you can walk between the towering 300 meter-high canyon walls. We will then continue along the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” to reach our destination in the beautiful Dades Valley.
Dades Valley to Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou and High Atlas
After breakfast, we admire the unique “monkey fingers” rock formations of the Dades Valley before heading to Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa.” The main highlight of the day is a visit to the magnificent Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO-protected fortified village. We will then cross the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka pass in the High Atlas Mountains to arrive in vibrant Marrakech.
Exploring Marrakech – The Red City
A guided tour will introduce you to the wonders of the “Red City.” Your day will be centered around the electric atmosphere of Djemaa el-Fna square. We will visit the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, the opulent Bahia Palace, and delve into the labyrinthine souks. Overnight in Marrakech.
Marrakech – Free Day
Enjoy a full day to experience Marrakech on your own terms. You could revisit the souks for souvenir hunting, take a Moroccan cooking class, visit the tranquil Majorelle Garden, or simply relax. This is your day to absorb the city’s unique energy at your leisure.
Marrakech to Essaouira – Coastal Escape
Today, we swap the bustling city for the refreshing Atlantic breeze. We will drive west to the charming coastal town of Essaouira. Along the way, you may see the famous goats climbing argan trees and visit a women’s argan oil cooperative. Upon arrival in Essaouira, you’ll feel the relaxed, artistic vibe that makes this city so special.
Exploring Essaouira
Discover the fortified medina of Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk along its ancient ramparts, watch the fishing boats in the bustling harbor, and explore the narrow streets filled with art galleries. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a portside stall and soak up the laid-back coastal atmosphere.
Essaouira to Rabat – Coast and Casablanca
Our journey continues north along the Atlantic coast. We will make a significant stop in Casablanca to visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world, with its stunning architecture. Afterward, we will proceed to Rabat, the modern capital of Morocco, to settle in for the evening.
Rabat to Tangier – Asilah and Final Coast
This morning, we’ll explore Rabat’s key sights, including the historic Kasbah of the Udayas, the grand Hassan Tower, and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Afterward, we continue our drive north to the beautiful seaside town of Asilah, known for its art-filled medina. After a short visit, we complete our circuit by returning to Tangier.
Tangier – Departure
After a final Moroccan breakfast, your incredible 15-day journey comes to an end. We will transfer you to the Tangier port or airport for your departure, leaving you with a lifetime of cherished memories from your grand tour of Morocco.
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
- 14 nights of accommodation(breakfasts and dinners are included)
- 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 Tangier. 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.
