Why BOOK this 12 Days Tour from Tangier to Marrakech?
This 12 days tour from Tangier to Marrakech takes you through some of Morocco's most captivating places. Start in the north from Tangier, then travel south to the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen. Next, visit the ancient Roman ruins at Volubilis and explore the medieval medina in Fes. Continue southeast to the Sahara Desert, marvel at the stunning Todra Gorges, and visit historic Kasbahs such us the Amridil Kasbah, Taourirt Kasbah, and Ait Benhaddou Kasbah. The journey concludes in the lively city of Marrakech. From here, you will have the opportunity to visit the charming coastal city of Essaouira.
- Daily departure is available.
- Experience Tangier's rich history, diverse culture, and coastal views, your gateway to Morocco attractions.
- Discover Chefchaouen, the Blue City nestled in the Rif Mountains, famous for its blue-washed alleys.
- Camel riding in the Merzouga desert.
- Drive through the palm groves of Ziz valley.
- Experience an unforgettable night in a desert camp under the stars.
- Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Sahara desert.
- Meknes - Explore its historical ramparts and walk through its alleys of the Medina, including Bab El Mansour and Moulay Ismail Tomb.
- Todra Gorge - Walk in Morocco's Grand Canyon through spectacular rock formations.
- Marrakech - Discover Morocco's vibrant Red City, with its atmospheric medina and lively Jamaa El-Fna Square.
- Walk into the heart of Fes, Morocco's spiritual and cultural capital, and get lost in its old medina, bustling souks, artisan workshops, and historic landmarks like the famous University of Al-Qarawiyyin and tanneries.
- Spend some time in the Cedar forest to possibly see Barbarian apes and take pictures.
- Relax in the charming town of Essaouira.
- Local drums music around the campfire.
- Explore Volubilis, Morocco's best-preserved Roman ruins, where ancient mosaics, grand arches, and columns.
- Thrilling descent - Enjoy a scenic descent from the stunning High Atlas mountain pass of Tizi N'Tichka.
- Experience the Berber villages throughout your journey.
- The Atlas Mountains - Beautiful mountain scenery in the highest mountain range in North Africa.
- Make a stop in Ifrane, called "Switzerland of Morocco", to see the iconic Berber lion statue, a tribute to the now-extinct Barbary lion.
- Enjoy a breathtaking sunset painting the dunes in golden hues.
- Wake up early to witness a magical sunrise over the vast sea of sand.
- The tour is available in many languages (English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese...etc!).
- Visit the Atlas Cinema Studio: the world's largest film studio, where guests can tour the decaying sets that fill the harsh desert landscape.
- Take a short break in the Cedar Forest to observe the Barbary apes and capture some memorable photographs.
- Drive along Ziz Valley and cross the Middle Atlas Mountains with its cedar forests.
- Take a stroll through the breathtaking Dades gorges.
- The tour is at an affordable price and has great quality services.
Key Features
- Tour Name: 12 Days Tour from Tangier to Marrakech
- Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
- Starting Point: Tangier
- Ending Point: Marrakech
- Departure: Daily
- Availability: Year-round
- Tour Type: Private Tour
- Languages: Tour available in English, French, and Spanish.
- Difficulty Level: Suitable for all fitness levels.
Tour Highlights
- Visiting Places: Tangier, Chefchaouen, Volubilis, Meknes, Fes, Ifrane, Erfoud, Merzouga & Erg Chebbi, Tinghir, Boumalne Dades, Ouarzazate, Marrakech, Ait Benhaddou, Essaouira.
- Key attractions: Medina of Tangier, The blue city of Chefchaouen, Volubilis, Merzouga Desert, Cedar Forests, the High Atlas Mountains, a camel ride in the desert with amazing sunrise and sunset views, an overnight stay in a desert camp, the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, Dades Gorges, Todra Gorges, and historical monuments in Marrakech and Fes, Coastal city of Essaouira.
- General Idea: Join us on a captivating Tangier to Marrakech 12-day tour across Morocco, exploring historic medinas, ancient ruins, the amazing Sahara desert, and picturesque coastal escapes, a perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural wonder.
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12 Days Morocco Itinerary from Tangier
4.9 ★★★★★ 114 reviews
How Would You Spend 12 Days in Morocco?
Days In Morocco has prepared this suggested itinerary to provide you with a clear idea of how you could spend 12 days in Morocco. This day-by-day plan is designed to guide your journey smoothly. Please note that this itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences and modified to create an ideal experience.
What is the difference between the categories of accommodations?
This is the difference between the 4 categories of accommodations:
- Budget accommodations are typically 1- and 2-star hotels, offering a simple, clean place to stay with small rooms containing essential amenities like a bed, fresh linens, a bathroom, and basic furniture such as a table and a clothes rack. (Not recommended by Days In Morocco Company).
- Standard accommodations fall between 2 and 3 stars, often found in older city areas or rural settings like Kasbahs, guesthouses, or Riads. Despite being economical, they provide decent comfort, usually featuring private bathrooms, a restaurant, and sometimes a swimming pool.
- Mixed accommodations blend elements from both standard and luxury categories, providing a middle ground for those unsure whether to opt for superior or standard. This option allows guests to experience both authentic Moroccan charm and luxury amenities. (Highly recommended by Days In Morocco Company).
- Luxury accommodations, usually 4 or 5 stars, are typically located in city centers, offering exceptional comfort, top-notch services, elegant designs, and a wide range of amenities such as pools, spas, restaurants, and fitness centers.
Overview: 12 Days Tour from Tangier to Marrakech
This 12 days Morocco tour Tangier to Marrakech is designed for an unforgettable exploration of Morocco. During this 12-day desert tour, you will visit a range of attractive cities including Chefchaouen, Fes, Meknes, Merzouga, and Marrakech. You will also enjoy beautiful vistas across Morocco, with stops at Volubilis, a hike in the Todra Gorges and Dades Gorges, and a traditional Berber lunch in the local restaurant.
In Merzouga, experience a memorable camel trekking over the Erg Chebbi dunes while witnessing breathtaking sunset and sunrise views. With our private English-speaking driver/guide, you will discover the best of Morocco, and at the end of the tour, you will go an in-depth exploration of the main attractions in the imperial city of Marrakech. We hope you enjoy our 12-day tour from Tangier to Marrakech.
Detailed Itinerary: A day-by-day plan to guide your journey.
Check out the itinerary for our 12 Days Tour from Tangier to Marrakech. If you have any questions or need clarification, please don't hesitate to contact us at any time. This tour is flexible and can be customized to meet your preferences.
- Day 1: Arrival in Tangier - Transfer to the accommodation
-
Welcome to Morocco! Today, we will pick you up from Tangier airport/port or any location of your choice. Depending on your arrival time, you will have the opportunity to explore the highlights of Tangier, including historical sites such as Hercules Cave, Cape Spartel, and the charming old town (Medina). Overnight stay in Tangier.
Driving distance- Approximately 13 kilometers
- 0 hr 30 min (without traffic and stops)
Accommodation- Overnight stay at hotel
- Not included
- Day 2: Tangier - Rif Mountains - Chefchaouen
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Today after breakfast, we will set off toward Chefchaouen, passing through the Rif Mountains and the beautiful city of Tetouan, known for its rich history and striking architecture, reflecting the influences of Andalusian culture. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking landscapes and views of small villages nestled in the Rif.
Chefchaouen, known as the Blue Pearl of Morocco, is situated in the hollow of two mountains, Ech-Chaouen, or The Horns, from which the town takes its name. Its steep, narrow streets, white and indigo lime-washed houses, small squares, ornate fountains, and homes with beautifully decorated doorways and red-tile roofs create a unique and delightful atmosphere. Overnight stay in Chefchaouen.
Driving distance- Approximately 120 kilometers
- 2 hr 30 min (without traffic and stops)
Accommodation- Overnight stay at hotel/riad
- Breakfast
- Day 3: Full-day exploring Chefchaouen
-
Today, you'll have free time to stroll through the beautiful blue-washed alleys of Chefchaouen, explore local artisan shops, and enjoy the tranquil vibe of this unique town. Rise early to capture beautiful photos of the calm, people-less streets. After breakfast at your accommodation, you can start exploring the charming town of Chefchaouen, one of Morocco's most famous tourist destinations. The town's most striking feature is the blue paint coloring the walls of the medina in various shades.
Once inside the medina, a must-do activity is to walk up to "Ras El Maa Waterfall", a famous water source sitting on the top of the mountain. From here, you'll be amazed by the panoramic views of Chefchaouen and its mountainous terrain. Along the way, you will come across notable monuments and symbolic buildings, such as "Place of Outa El Hamam", a square surrounded by cafés and restaurants offering a peaceful setting to relax.
In this square, you will also see the Kasbah, an 18th-century fortress that has been heavily restored and now boasts a lovely garden. Additionally, your tour is incomplete without visiting the Spanish Mosque (Bouzafer Mosque), a historic site built in the 15th century. Overnight stay in Chefchaouen.
Driving distance- None; the visit will be on foot.
- None; the visit will be on foot.
Accommodation- Overnight stay at hotel/riad
- Breakfast
- Day 4: Chefchaouen to Fes via Volubilis and Meknes
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After breakfast at your accommodation in Chefchaouen, you will begin your journey toward Fes. Along the way, you will visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, an archaeological site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997. Take time to explore the complex, including its ancient temples and impressive mosaics.
Next, continue to Meknes, one of Morocco's Imperial Cities, founded by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century. Here, you will visit the old Medina, surrounded by its historic walls, and admire the famous Bab El Mansour gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the lively El Hedim Square.
At the end of the day, we will drive directly to your accommodation in Fes, where you will spend the night.
Driving distance- Approximately 260 kilometers
- 4 hr 30 min (without traffic and stops)
Accommodation- Overnight stay at hotel/riad
- Breakfast
- Day 5: Fes City Tour
-
After breakfast, you will meet our local guide in Fes for a full-day tour. Fes is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the oldest imperial cities in Morocco, founded in 808 as the first political, religious, and cultural capital.
Our tour will start at the Golden Doors of the Royal Palace. Afterward, we will head to a viewpoint where you can admire the impressive walls that surround the Old Medina (Fes El-Bali). Then, we'll continue on foot through the Medina, allowing you to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and experience hundreds of feelings revolted of this historic area.
As we explore, you will visit mosques, madrassas, and various religious places before reaching the district of the Tanners. Please note that lunch during your walking tour is not included in the price (lunch will be at a typical Moroccan restaurant in the old Medina). We will then continue to the artisans' neighborhood, where skilled craftsmen preserve the knowledge and techniques they brought from Spain, and kept Andalusian art and style to this day.
In the evening, you will enjoy the rest sights on your own and spend the night at a hotel or riad.
Driving distance- Minimal (local travel within Fes)
- Guided tour, typically 5-6 hours
Accommodation- Overnight stay at hotel/riad
- Breakfast
- Day 6: Fes to Merzouga via Ifrane, Ziz Valley and Erfoud
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After breakfast in Fes, we start our day bright and early and travel south toward Merzouga. Along the way, you will pass through Ifrane, known worldwide as the "Switzerland of Morocco" for its alpine-style European houses with sloping roofs, quite different from traditional Moroccan architecture. Situated at 1,630 meters above sea level, Ifrane is surrounded by striking natural beauty, and its National Park is a perfect spot to stop and observe the Barbary Macaque monkeys that live in the extensive cedar tree forest.
Next, we will stop for lunch in Midelt, known as "the apple city". After lunch, our journey continues over the Tizi N'Talghamt pass into the Ziz Valley, famous for its hidden oases and palm trees. We then travel on to Erfoud, known for its date festival and fossil mining, until we finally arrive at Erg Chebbi, an extensive sea of sand dunes.
At Erg Chebbi, we leave the car behind to join on an unforgettable camel trek experience over the high sand dunes of the desert. Your local guides will show how to safely mount and dismount on camels, ensuring you have a comfortable and secure ride. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the sunset from atop a high dune before continuing to your desert camp.
After a delicious dinner at the camp, relax under the stars as you listen to Berber music played by local nomads. If you love dancing, feel free to join in and dance to the rhythms of the music. You'll be amazed by the starlit sky above you, then, before you go to your tent.
Driving distance- Approximately 465 kilometer
- 7 hr 30 min (without traffic and stops)
Accommodation- Overnight stay at a desert camp
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Day 7: Merzouga Desert Tour: Visit Nomads - M'Fis Mines - Khamlia Village
-
After waking up early, you'll have the chance to enjoy the beautiful view of the sunrise, which is the amazing part of the day in the desert. Following this, you will return to the desert camp where you can take a shower and savor a delicious breakfast.
After breakfast, our desert excursion will begin as we explore the Erg Chebbi region. We will drive off-road to visit the nomadic families living around the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, giving you a chance to see their unique lifestyle and learn how they survive in the dry Sahara Desert. We'll share a cup of mint tea with them. A tip is recommended (starting from 10€).
Next, we will drive to the M'Fis mines, which are located on a high plateau that offers a fantastic panoramic view of Erg Chebbi and the surrounding desert landscape. After that, we will head to Khamlia Village, also known as Gnaoua Village. The inhabitants of this small village originated in Black Africa and share a long-standing relationship with the Sahara, as their ancestors were brought from Central and West Africa through caravans that traversed the desert to southeastern Morocco.
During our visit, you'll learn more about their culture and enjoy their traditional music. After immersing yourself in the sounds of Gnaoua music, it's time to have a delicious lunch which is Berber pizza. Later, we will visit Lake Dayet Sarji, which forms in the springtime and attracts pink flamingos and other wildlife.
Later in the day, we will return to Merzouga and drop you off at your accommodation for the night.
Driving distance- Approximately 86 kilometers
- 1 hr 08 min (without traffic and stops)
Accommodation- Overnight stay at hotel/riad
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Day 8: Merzouga Desert to Dades Valley via Todra Gorges
-
Before returning to the meeting point, you'll wake up early to witness the beautiful sunrise over the noble sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. Watch the early light reflecting the vast sea of sand. After this unforgettable moment, return to your desert camp for a shower and a delicious breakfast.
After breakfast at the desert camp, you'll ride back to the camel departure point and prepare for the next step of your desert trip. We'll leave the vast desert behind as we travel toward the historic city of Rissani, once a major stop on the ancient Sahara caravan routes. If your visit coincides with the local market days (Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Sundays), you'll have the opportunity to explore the largest souk in the region.
Our journey continues with a stop in Erfoud, known as the Fossil Town, before heading into the Dades Valley. As we travel, you'll pass through charming villages such as Jorf, Tinjdad, and Tinghir, eventually arriving at Todra Valley, a green oasis surrounded by mud villages and towering mountains. After a 30-minute drive, we reach Todra Gorges, a dramatic, narrow passage with vertical cliffs rising 300 meters on each side, popular with climbing lovers.
We then continue our journey into the Dades Valley, where we'll stop at majestic sand castles, unique rock formations known as "monkey toes", and beautiful mud kasbahs. You will spend the night in the tranquil surroundings of the Dades Valley.
Driving distance- Approximately 264 kilometers
- 4 hr 00 min (without traffic and stops)
Accommodation- Overnight stay at hotel/riad
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Day 9: Dades Valley to Marrakech via Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou
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Today, we will depart from Dades Gorges and head toward Marrakech. As we travel along the famous Road of Thousand Kasbahs, we will stop in Kalaat M'Gouna, known as the Valley of Roses. Here, you will have the chance to explore local cooperatives and shops offering rose-based products. This beautiful valley hosts the annual Rose Festival every May, celebrating the region's famed rose cultivation.
Our journey continues to Ouarzazate, where we will visit the famous Atlas Studios, known as the Hollywood of Africa, where many films and series have been shot.
Next, we head to the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as an important stop for caravans crossing the desert. Today, it is a popular filming location for many international movies. Lunch will be served at a restaurant in the village.
Finally, we will cross the Tizi N'Tichka Pass, which offers breathtaking views of valleys, mountains, and traditional Berber villages nestled in the hills, as we make our way to Marrakech. By evening, you will be dropped off at your accommodation in Marrakech, where you will spend the night.
Driving distance- Approximately 331 kilometers
- 5 hr 45 min (without traffic and stops)
Accommodation- Overnight stay at hotel/riad
- Breakfast
- Day 10: Marrakech City Tour
-
Today, after enjoying breakfast, our local guide will meet you at your accommodation in Marrakech. He will accompany you as you explore the famous city, known as the "Red City of Morocco". This city has served as an important stop for traders and travelers for many centuries and is considered the "southern pearl" of Morocco, as well as the "second oldest imperial city".
Our itinerary includes visiting the most significant historical and cultural sites, including the Saadian Tombs, the stunning Palaces of El Bahia and El Badi, the Ben Youssef Quranic School (Ben Youssef Madrasa), and the historic Koutoubia Mosque, which features a 77-meter-high minaret that dominates the center of Marrakech. As well as the Menara Gardens and Jardin Majorelle, which require a booking in advance via the official website (it's better to book the tickets one to two days before the visit date).
Next, you can head to Jamaa El-Fna, one of the city's main attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This famous square is a central cultural hub in Marrakech. You can relax at various cafés surrounding the square and enjoy the lively atmosphere, which is filled with magicians, storytellers, snake charmers, and street food vendors. Then continue to discover the colorful and diverse souks. We will spend the night in Marrakech.
Driving distance- Minimal (local travel within Marrakech)
- Guided tour, typically 4-5 hours
Accommodation- Overnight stay at hotel/riad
- Breakfast
- Day 11: Day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira and Back
-
After breakfast at your accommodation, start your day trip from Marrakech to the coastal city of Essaouira. After a 2.5-hour drive, start exploring Essaouira, the "City of the Wind". Wander through the labyrinthine alleys of the Medina and admire the hundreds of local handicrafts on display. Although this historic town has been shaped by many civilizations, including the Portuguese, whose influence remains obvious in its architecture; it retains a charm and rich history.
Famous for its distinctive blue doors and washed walls, Essaouira is celebrated as Morocco's "Jewel of the Atlantic". Additionally, you will visit a women's cooperative where argan oil, famed for its culinary, cosmetic, and medicinal properties, is produced. Enjoy lunch either in the Medina or at the port, and in the afternoon, return to Marrakech. Overnight stay at a riad or hotel.
Driving distance- Approximately 360 kilometers
- 5 hr 30 min (without traffic and stops)
Accommodation- Overnight stay at hotel/riad
- Breakfast
- Day 10: Marrakech - Transfer to the airport
-
Enjoy free time in Marrakech at your leisure before your transfer to the airport, scheduled according to your flight time. This marks the end of our 12 days tour from Tangier to Marrakech.
Driving distance- Approximately 7 kilometers
- 00 hr 30 min (without traffic and stops)
Accommodation- Not included
- Breakfast
Journey times and distances are estimates and are based on the direct route between the start location and end location for each day of the itinerary, where applicable. They do not include detours or stops for sightseeing.
What's Included: Don't worry, we've got this covered.
Services Included in the price
- Pick up and drop off (at your accommodation, airport, or any other place);
- Tour Commentary;
- Private transfer by comfortable air-conditioned vehicle;
- Experienced English-speaking guide/driver;
- A local guide for the Marrakech city tour;
- A local guide for the Fes city tour;
- Private tour, there will be no more people in the group;
- You can stop whenever you want;
- Car Fuel;
- Car Insurance;
- Camel ride in the Sahara desert (Camel per person);
- 4x4 transfer to and from the camp (Alternative to Camels);
- 1 Night stay at desert camp (Luxury or Standard);
- 10 Nights accommodation at hotel/riad;
- Dinner in: Merzouga Desert and Dades Valley;
- Daily breakfast during the whole trip;
- Sandboarding (if available during the camel ride experience);
- Confirmation at time of booking.
Services NOT Included in the price
- Flight Tickets to/from Morocco;
- Meals, drinks consumed during the tour;
- Entry fees to monuments/museums;
- Personal travel insurance;
- Tips & Personal expenses;
- All that isn't mentioned in the itinerary.
Additional Info
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase);
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required;
- Children's must be accompanied by an adult.
Tour Map: Here's a map of your travel route.
Tour Images: These pictures maybe will give a good image of your trip.




Related Questions: 12 Days Tour from Tangier to Marrakech
We strongly recommend using TSA-approved luggage locks on your bags and hand carry valuables on the plane.
Many of our trips require us to move our base several times, so we recommend that you pack as lightly as possible. There will not always be someone available to help you carry your bags so you should only bring as much as you can carry on your own.
We suggest that you bring the following items:
Clothing & Equipment
- Season-specific casual clothes (men and women should always dress modestly out of respect for the culture they are visiting- no tank tops, low cut tops, or short shorts. It is not necessary to wear a headscarf.)
- Hiking clothes and shoes (NOTE: They can get quite dirty/dusty).
- Bathing suit.
- A pair of comfortable walking shoes.
- A light jacket/windbreaker (NOTE: It can be very windy in Essaouira).
- A warm jacket (NOTE: It can be quite cold in the High Atlas Mountains from November to March. Please pack appropriately for cold, winter evenings.).
- Power adaptor for 220v, 50 Hz (outlets are two-prong rounded).
- Toiletries.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat.
- First-aid kit with lip balm, aspirin, band-aids, cream for sore muscles (e.g. deep heat), Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, any extra prescription drugs you may be taking.
Travel Documents
- Passport (with photocopies).
- Travel insurance (with photocopies).
- Airline tickets (with photocopies).
- Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required.
- Credit and/or debit card and/or cash (MasterCard and Visa are the most commonly used; American Express and Maestro cards are difficult to use in Morocco.)
- This document, printed.
In order to protect against any unforeseen circumstances, it is advisable to purchase adequate insurance before your date of departure. Coverage should include baggage damage or loss, flight delays or cancellations, etc. We recommend "World Nomads" for your Travel Insurance.
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Reviews and Testimonials
We don't like to brag about ourselves. Check out what our clients have to say about their travel experiences with Days In Morocco. Our goal is always to exceed expectations by providing exceptional service and showcasing the beauty of Morocco.

Alfie J
United Kingdom (UK)
One of our best holidays ever. Very well planned, sites range excellent, suggested sightseeing well selected, and over all speed of itinerary perfect-enough time to see and enjoy each sites but kept us going so we saw all the attractive destinations in Morocco. Look forward to DAYS IN MOROCCO preparing future holidays in Morocco. I will recommend several friends and family members! Thanks for the beautiful memories.

Isabella C
United States (US)
Very good 10 days tour in Morocco with great views of the country. I highly recommend this tour to tourists. Days in MOROCCO give you excellent services and very customized itinerary. Thanks a lot to the driver/guide too, very friendly and makes great explanations, that permits to know perfectly the story of the different highlights in Morocco. THANK YOU DAYS IN MOROCCO!

Friedrich O
Germany (DE)
I just returned from the "Grand Morocco Tour in 15 days". I was very happy with the service and got more than expected from this vacation package. Everything went very smoothly and I appreciate all your help. Thank you Days in Morocco! Our guide/driver Hassan was friendly and knowledgeable. Moreover, the places we visited are extremely beautiful. I will recommend Days In Morocco to my friends and family members as a reliable Morocco tourism company.