We take pride in customizing each tour to suit your individual needs. If you have any special requests, would like to modify this tour, or are interested in an extended adventure, please share your details with us using the contact form below.
12 Day Morocco Exploration Itinerary Starting from Tangier
Overview
12 Days Morocco Itinerary from Tangier. This 12 day and 11 night tour starts in Tangier and takes you on an unforgettable journey from the Atlantic coast to the Sahara Desert. Explore Morocco’s imperial cities, including Fes, Marrakech, and Rabat, while discovering historic landmarks, bustling souks, and ancient medinas. Enjoy camel trekking across the golden Erg Chebbi dunes and spend a night under the stars in a desert camp. Immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes of Morocco on this complete adventure, combining scenic beauty, heritage, and unforgettable experiences.
- Duration: 12 days/11 nights
- Start: tangier
- End: tangier
- Tour Style: Private & Small group
- Price: Check it below
Highlights of the 12 Day Morocco Exploration Itinerary Starting from Tangier:
- Explore the Hercules Cave, Achakar Beach, and Cap Spartel in Tangier, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic
- Discover the stunning blue Medina of Chefchaouen at the foot of the Rif Mountains
- Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes, including Bab al Mansour and local souks
- Explore the historic Medina of Fes, including Royal Palace Gate, Tanneries, and Al-Qarawiyyin University
- Experience the Sahara Desert in Merzouga, with camel trekking, sunset over the dunes, and overnight in a desert camp
- Admire the dramatic Todra Gorges and scenic Dades Valley, including the famous “monkey toes” rock formations
- Visit Ouarzazate and the UNESCO Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, a filming location for major movies, then cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi N’Tichka Pass
- Explore Marrakech and Essaouira, including Koutoubia Mosque, Medina souks, Majorelle Gardens, and the coastal ramparts of Essaouira
Itinerary of the 12 Day Morocco Exploration Itinerary Starting from Tangier:
Day 1: Arrival in Tangier
Upon arrival at Tangier Airport or Port, you will be met by your guide and begin your exploration of Tangier. Visit the famous Hercules Cave, an iconic site with mythical significance and dramatic ocean views. Continue to Achakar Beach, known for its pristine sands and scenic surroundings. Head to Cap Spartel, where the Mediterranean and Atlantic Oceans meet, offering breathtaking panoramas. Finally, stroll through the Old Town (Medina) of Tangier, wandering the atmospheric alleys filled with vibrant local life. Overnight in Tangier.
Day 2: Tangier ⇢ Tetouan ⇢ Chefchaouen
Today, depart Tangier heading towards Chefchaouen, driving through the stunning Rif Mountains. Along the way, pass through Tetouan, a city renowned for its Andalusian-influenced medina and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy panoramic views of the Rif Mountains before arriving in Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl” of Morocco. Explore the Chefchaouen Medina, famous for its blue-washed buildings, charming alleys, vibrant handicraft shops, and rooftop cafés offering views over the Rif Mountains. Overnight in Chefchaouen.
Day 3: Chefchaouen ⇢ Volubilis ⇢ Meknes ⇢ Fes
After breakfast, depart Chefchaouen for Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most well-preserved Roman ruins. Explore the ancient mosaics, temples, and triumphal arches that tell the story of Morocco’s Roman past. Continue to Meknes, an Imperial City, to visit the Medina, the Sahrij Souani (historic granaries and water reservoirs), Square of Lehdim, and the impressive Bab al-Mansour Gate. Wander through the local souks and enjoy the historical ambiance. In the late afternoon, drive to Fes. Check-in and overnight at a traditional Riad in Fes.
Day 4: Fes Sightseeing
Explore Fes, one of Morocco’s Imperial Cities, with a local guide. Begin at the Royal Palace Gate, then visit a ceramics cooperative to see traditional Moroccan crafts. Walk through the narrow streets of the Medina, exploring the vibrant Jewish Quarter and historic Tanneries. Learn about the city’s cultural and historical significance, including a visit to the renowned Al Karaouine University. In the afternoon, admire panoramic views over the Medina and continue to visit the New City of Fes, contrasting modern life with the ancient city. Overnight in Fes.
Day 5: Fes ⇢ Ifrane ⇢ Midelt ⇢ Erfoud ⇢ Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, depart from Fes and drive towards the Sahara Desert. Pass through Ifrane, known as the “Moroccan Switzerland,” and the Cedar Forests of Azrou, where you may spot the wild Barbary monkeys. This is a perfect opportunity for photography amidst the pristine Moroccan wilderness. Continue through the Atlas Mountains, stopping for lunch in a small Berber village. Drive onward to Midelt, enjoying the scenic mountain landscapes, and continue to Erfoud, the gateway to the desert oasis of Tafilalet. Upon arrival near Merzouga, relax briefly before embarking on a camel trek into the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Spend the night in a traditional Desert Camp under the starry Sahara sky.
Day 6: Merzouga ⇢ Rissani ⇢ Tinghir ⇢ Todra Gorges ⇢ Dades Valley
Wake early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Erg Chebbi dunes. After breakfast at the camp, depart for Rissani, the historic gateway to the desert, where you can explore its bustling souk and see a park of donkeys near the market. Continue your journey to Tinghir and the Todra Gorges, the highest and narrowest gorges in Morocco, offering spectacular cliffs and river views. Enjoy lunch in a local village within the gorge. Afterward, drive through the Dades Valley, marveling at the dramatic rock formations and the famous “monkey toes” cliffs. Overnight in a hotel or Riad in Dades Valley.
Day 7: Dades Valley ⇢ Ouarzazate ⇢ Ait Benhaddou ⇢ Marrakech
After breakfast, depart from Dades Valley and drive to Ouarzazate, stopping for a panoramic view of the Taourirt Kasbah and a visit to the Atlas Film Studios. Continue to the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic filming location for movies since the 1960s. Stop for lunch in a local restaurant within the village. In the afternoon, drive over the High Atlas Mountains, passing through the Tizi N’tichka Pass (2260 m altitude) with its breathtaking mountain vistas. Arrive in Marrakech for drop-off at your hotel or Riad.
Day 8: Full Day in Marrakech
Full day to explore Marrakech with an optional private guided tour. Your official guide will take you to the famous Koutoubia Mosque, the vibrant Medina, and its bustling Souks. Discover hidden gems of the city, including the Ali Ben Youssef Koranic School, the historical Saadian and Bahia Palaces, and the colorful Majorelle Gardens. Enjoy the evening ambiance of the city and overnight stay at a Riad in the Medina.
Day 9: Marrakech ⇢ Essaouira
Departure from Marrakech toward Essaouira, a scenic 3-hour drive to the coastal port town. En route, you may visit a local Argan Oil Cooperative to learn about traditional oil production. Upon arrival in Essaouira, begin a walking tour of the historic port, exploring the 18th-century ramparts and arches, stopping by Dutch cannons facing the sea. Stroll through the lively market showcasing local oak crafts. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before checking into the hotel. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the seaside town. Overnight in Essaouira.
Day 10: Essaouira ⇢ Casablanca
After breakfast, depart from Essaouira to Casablanca. Upon arrival, explore key landmarks of Morocco’s largest city, including the iconic Hassan II Mosque and the scenic Coastal Corniche. Return to your hotel for overnight stay in Casablanca.
Day 11: Casablanca ⇢ Rabat ⇢ Asilah
Departure from Casablanca to Rabat, the capital of Morocco. In Rabat, visit the iconic Hassan Tower and explore the historic Udayas Kasbah. Continue along the scenic Atlantic coast to Asilah, a charming coastal town renowned for its annual arts festival. Stroll through the Medina, where walls are adorned with murals painted by artists from around the world. Visit the Skalla Fortress for panoramic views of the Medina and the ocean. Overnight stay at a Hotel or Riad in Asilah.
Day 12: Asilah ⇢ Tangier Airport/Port
After breakfast, depart Asilah for Tangier. Transfer to the airport or port for your onward journey. End of your 12 Days Morocco itinerary from Tangier.
Gallery
Inclusive and Exclusive of the tour
Price Includes:
- Private transportation by air-conditioned 4×4, minibus, or bus
- Multilingual driver/guide
- Fuel for the vehicle
- 10 nights in hotels or riads (breakfast included)
- 1 night in a desert camp (dinner and breakfast included)
- Camel ride in the desert
- Sandboarding in the dunes
Price Excludes:
- Drinks and lunches
- Flight tickets
- Entrance fees to monuments
Map of the tour
tour price:
The pricing for This tour starts at €160 per person. Please note that the cost can vary based on factors such as the number of travelers, your choice of accommodations, and the time of year. Larger groups benefit from lower per-person rates.
The €160 per person rate applies to groups of 17 or more.
For smaller groups, such as 2 travelers, the price starts at €269 per person.
For personalized pricing tailored to your group, please contact us using the form below. Our team will provide the rates that best match your needs.
Booking
Please use the form below to email us at compassmoroccotours@gmail.com, and we will respond as fast as possible. You can also send a WhatsApp message or call us at +212 676-594706. We look forward to hearing from you!
REVIEWS
Reviews
★★★★★
Our 7-day Morocco tour with Compass Morocco Tours was simply incredible! From Marrakech to the Sahara, everything was perfectly organized. Our driver Youssef was knowledgeable and friendly, and the desert camp in Merzouga was beyond amazing. Highly recommend this company for anyone visiting Morocco!
★★★★★
We had such a wonderful experience with Compass Morocco Tours! The team was professional, our guide was patient and informative, and the landscapes were breathtaking. The camel ride and night under the stars in the Sahara were unforgettable moments for my family.
★★★★★
Compass Morocco Tours made our trip seamless and stress-free. The itinerary covered so much — from the bustling souks of Fes to the peaceful dunes of Erg Chebbi. The vehicle was super comfortable, and we felt safe and well cared for the entire journey.
★★★★★
Traveling through Morocco with Compass Morocco Tours was a dream come true. Every detail was thought out — beautiful riads, delicious food, and amazing hospitality. Our driver Hassan shared so much about Moroccan culture and history. A truly authentic experience!
★★★★★
I can’t say enough good things about Compass Morocco Tours! The desert night was magical — luxury tents, great music, and friendly Berber hosts. It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and I’d absolutely do it again.
★★★★★
What a fantastic journey! Compass Morocco Tours made sure everything ran smoothly from start to finish. The views through the Atlas Mountains and the sunset over the dunes were simply breathtaking. Thank you for an unforgettable experience!
★★★★★
Amazing experience with Compass Morocco Tours! The driver was very kind and flexible, always making sure we were comfortable. The tour was well-balanced between cultural visits and time to relax. Morocco completely stole my heart!
★★★★★
Our 5-day desert tour was outstanding. The Compass Morocco Tours team handled everything perfectly — great communication before the trip, comfortable hotels, and a driver who became like a friend. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to see the real Morocco.
★★★★★
This was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had. Compass Morocco Tours exceeded all expectations. The camp in Merzouga was so peaceful, and waking up to the sunrise over the dunes was just magical. Merci for such wonderful memories!
★★★★★
Compass Morocco Tours provided excellent service throughout our journey. The tour was well-paced, full of local insights, and every stop felt meaningful. Morocco is beautiful, and this company made it even more special.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to pay for the tour?
Our payment process is simple and flexible. To confirm your booking, we ask for a small deposit, which can be paid through PayPal, bank transfer, or Wise. The remaining balance can be settled in cash on the first day of your tour directly with your driver or guide. We accept euros, US dollars, or the equivalent in Moroccan dirhams.
What is the best desert tour from Marrakech?
The best desert tour from Marrakech depends on how much time you have. The 3-day Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour is the most popular, as it allows you to experience the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi, ride camels, and sleep in a luxury desert camp under the stars. If you have more time, the 4-day or 5-day desert tours offer a deeper and more relaxed exploration of Morocco’s desert landscapes and kasbahs.
Can I skip the camel ride to the camp?
Yes, absolutely. If you prefer not to ride a camel, we can take you to the camp in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle instead
How far is the desert from Fes?
The desert is around 500 km (about 311 miles) from Fes, which takes roughly 7 and a half hours to drive.
What type of vehicles are used for this trip?
Your comfort is our top priority. At Compass Morocco Tours , we provide modern and comfortable vehicles suited to every group size. Depending on your needs, you’ll travel in vehicles such as a Toyota Prado Land Cruiser TX, Ford Tourneo Custom, or a Mercedes Benz Sprinter minibus for larger groups. We believe that a smooth and comfortable journey makes your entire travel experience more enjoyable.
Does the camp have private bathrooms?
Certainly. All the camps we offer are luxury desert camps, designed to provide maximum comfort and equipped with private en-suite bathrooms for your convenience.
Can you do a day trip to the desert from Marrakech?
Technically, you cannot reach the real Sahara Desert on a day trip from Marrakech because it is too far away. However, you can take a day trip to the Agafay Desert, located just 40 minutes from Marrakech. Agafay offers a desert-like experience with rocky landscapes, camel rides, quad biking, and stunning views of the Atlas Mountains.
Is it worth going to the Sahara Desert in Morocco?
Absolutely! A visit to the Sahara Desert is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Morocco. Watching the sunset and sunrise over the vast dunes, riding camels across the golden sands, and spending a night in a luxury desert camp under the starry sky create truly magical memories that stay with you forever.
What is the closest desert to Marrakech?
The Agafay Desert is the nearest desert to Marrakech, located about 30 to 40 km southwest of the city. Unlike the Sahara, it’s a rocky desert with rolling hills and arid landscapes, but it provides a perfect short getaway for travelers looking to experience a desert atmosphere without the long journey.
Is the Sahara Desert close to Marrakech?
Not exactly. The Sahara Desert lies about 560 km from Marrakech. Traveling to the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga takes approximately 8 to 10 hours by road. Most tours break up the journey over two days, with an overnight stay in either the Dades Valley or Ouarzazate to make the trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
How far in advance should we book this tour?
It’s always a good idea to book your tour as early as possible to guarantee your preferred dates and ensure availability — after all, the early bird gets the best experience!
How long does it take to get to the desert from Marrakech?
The journey to Merzouga, home of the famous Sahara dunes, takes around 8 to 10 hours by road. Most desert tours divide the trip into several days to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore breathtaking sites such as the High Atlas Mountains, the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, and the stunning Dades Gorges.
How do I get from Marrakech to the desert?
The easiest and most comfortable way to reach the desert is by joining a private or small-group tour from Marrakech. Your driver-guide will take you on a scenic journey across the Atlas Mountains, passing through picturesque valleys and historic kasbahs before arriving in the Sahara Desert. While renting a car is also an option, a guided tour provides local insight, stress-free travel, and a richer overall experience.
Where is the best desert in Morocco?
The Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga are widely regarded as the best desert experience in Morocco, known for their breathtaking golden sand dunes and genuine desert ambiance. Another excellent choice is Erg Chigaga, located near M’Hamid, offering a more remote and untouched landscape—ideal for travelers in search of adventure, peace, and an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience.