Tangier Marrakech | 11 Days North Tour To Imperial Cities, Desert & Coast From Tangier

We kick off with a scenic drive through the Rif Mountains, passing the historic city of Tetouan. To fully enjoy the breathtaking landscape views, we stop to rest at the feet of the Rif mountains in Chefchaouen.

Chefchaouen's medina shows a strong Spanish architectural influence, as it was once part of Spanish Morocco. Its square is filled with vibrant artisanal shops bursting with colors. The city is home to many rooftop restaurants and cafes available in the riads, where you can enjoy the evening with a nice breeze and wonderful views. Overnight in traditional riad.

After a tasty breakfast, our journey continues toward Volubilis, crossing over Ouazan and other Rif villages. In Volubilis, we explore the ancient Roman ruins and learn about Moroccan history, discovering impressive mosaics and archaeological remains.

Continuing to Meknes, we stop for lunch and explore the historical walls of the medina along with the magnificent Bab el Mansour gate, and visit the Moulay Ismail shrine. Later in the afternoon, we head to Fes where we spend the night in a traditional riad.

We start the day exploring the oldest city in Morocco, snaking through its alleys and narrow streets. We begin sightseeing at the Royal Palace gate, followed by the Jewish quarter where the first Mellah ever was built in Morocco during the 16th century.

We ensure that you visit all sites with cultural and historical interest including the famous Al Qaraouine University, the oldest in the region. We also visit the renowned Tanneries, the Attarine Museum, and the Moulay Idriss mausoleum. After lunch, you visit various cooperatives and experience a wonderful panoramic view over the whole Medina of Fes. Overnight in riad.

The day begins with a drive toward the Atlas Mountains, stopping to visit the village of Ifrane, where we explore the famous cedar forest, home to the Berber apes (Barbary macaques).

We then continue through the Tiz Ntalghamt Mountain Pass and the spectacular Ziz Gorge, where we stop for pictures and local mint tea, to Midelt. We continue to Merzouga, arriving at our desert campsite where we enjoy camel trekking at sunset and spend the night under the stars in a luxury desert camp.

We wake up early to witness the magical sunrise over the desert dunes before heading back on camels. After freshening up and enjoying breakfast at a local hotel, we begin our journey toward Ouarzazate.

On the way, we visit traditional Berber villages and explore the impressive Todra and Dades Gorges. The Todra Gorge offers narrow canyon walls rising up to 300 meters high. At the Dades Gorge, we stop at a local hotel where we spend the night and enjoy a complimentary dinner in the valley of a thousand kasbahs.

After breakfast, we continue our tour toward Ouarzazate through the path of a thousand kasbahs (fortresses), stopping at Kalaat Mgouna, the center of the Valley of Roses, famous for its annual Rose Festival.

Then we drive through Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for being used as a filming location for the HBO series Game of Thrones and movies such as Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator. This ancient fortified village offers stunning views and remarkable architecture. Overnight in kasbah/hotel.

After breakfast, we take the scenic Tizi-n-Tichka Mountain pass through to Marrakech, bringing us closer to the Atlantic coast where Essaouira, the Pearl of the Atlantic, is located.

In the afternoon, we check in at a local riad and head out to watch the sunset from the Murallas (walls that fortify the city), an unforgettable experience. In the evening, we enjoy dinner featuring the freshest fish in the city, followed by an evening stroll through the quiet and picturesque medina.

Today you explore the ancient city of Mogador, a name given by the Portuguese. Rated as one of the most beautiful coastal cities of the Atlantic, its medina is a canvas of blue and white surrounded by lengthy beaches.

Discover the ancient citadel walls of the Portuguese colonial era, visit art galleries, explore the fishing port with its colorful boats, and learn about the city's history as a trading post. The city is also famous for its Gnawa music and argan oil cooperatives. Overnight in local riad.

After lunch at the port, enjoying fresh seafood and the maritime atmosphere, we head to Marrakech with minimal stops along the scenic route through argan tree forests.

Upon arrival in Marrakech, the red city, we check into our traditional riad/hotel in the medina, preparing for our exploration of this imperial city. Overnight in riad/hotel.

Today we have a comprehensive guided tour of Marrakech. You will explore the main attractions and monuments including the famous Jemaa el Fnaa square with its snake charmers and storytellers, the towering Koutoubia mosque, the vibrant souks, and historic palaces.

We visit the beautiful Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, Ben Youssef Madrasa, and explore parts of the city such as Gueliz, the peaceful Menara Gardens, and the stunning Majorelle Gardens. After lunch at a local restaurant, you have time to explore the city at your leisure. Overnight in riad.

After breakfast in your riad, you will be transferred punctually to Marrakech airport for your departure flight. This concludes your incredible 11-day journey through Northern Morocco, filled with memories of imperial cities, desert adventures, mountain landscapes, and coastal beauty.