Marrakech to Chefchaouen Desert Tour
Embark on a captivating Marrakech to Chefchaouen tour through Morocco’s diverse landscapes, historic cities, and the vast Sahara Desert. This 6-day journey takes you from the vibrant streets of Marrakech, through the dramatic High Atlas Mountains, and into the rolling dunes of the Sahara, before concluding in the serene blue city of Chefchaouen. Along the way, you’ll discover ancient kasbahs, enjoy a camel trek through the desert, and explore the imperial city of Fes.
Your journey begins as you leave Marrakech and head through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of rugged mountain landscapes before arriving at the famous Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and film set for movies like Gladiator. After lunch, continue to Ouarzazate for a brief stop at the Atlas Film Studios. Finally, travel to Boumalne Dades, where you’ll settle for dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel near the Dades Canyon.
After breakfast, travel along the scenic Road of 1001 Kasbahs to Tinghir, where you’ll visit the lush palm oasis and the towering Todra Gorge, renowned for its sheer cliffs and picturesque scenery. Following lunch, drive to Rissani, a town known for its historical significance as a former hub for desert caravan routes. In the afternoon, arrive in Merzouga and meet your camel caravan for an unforgettable ride across the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset. Spend the night at a luxury desert camp under the stars, enjoying traditional Berber music.
Rise early to witness a stunning Sahara sunrise before enjoying breakfast at the camp. Depart for Fes, passing through the Ziz Valley, known for its palm groves and ancient ksours (fortified villages). Stop for lunch in Midelt, a town in the Middle Atlas Mountains, and continue through the cedar forests of Azrou and Ifrane, home to wild Barbary monkeys. Arrive in Fes in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight in a charming riad within the Medina.
Spend the day discovering the cultural and historical treasures of Fes, often referred to as the “Athens of Africa.” Visit the Royal Palace, the panoramic viewpoint at Borj Sud, and explore the UNESCO-listed Fes Medina, famous for its narrow streets, bustling souks, and ancient madrasas. Highlights include the Al-Qarawiyyin University, one of the world’s oldest universities, and the Nejjarine Fountain. After a full day of sightseeing, return to your riad for a relaxing evening.
Depart Fes and head to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, an impressive archaeological site known for its well-preserved mosaics and monuments. After exploring this historic site, continue through the Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen, famous for its blue-painted streets and tranquil atmosphere. Once in Chefchaouen, take a stroll through its charming Medina, snapping photos of its iconic blue doors and whitewashed houses. Dinner and overnight in a traditional riad.
Spend your final morning exploring the laid-back streets of Chefchaouen, stopping to admire the stunning views from the Spanish Mosque or enjoy a coffee at Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the town’s central square. Stroll through the local markets and artisan shops, where you can find handcrafted leather goods and traditional textiles. After lunch, begin your drive back to Casablanca or Marrakech, where your unforgettable Marrakech to Chefchaouen desert tour will conclude.
This Marrakech to Chefchaouen tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and adventure, providing an immersive experience of Morocco’s most iconic sites.
Marrakech to Chefchaouen 6-Day Desert Tour Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Modern air-conditioned 4x4 or van with an English/French-speaking driver.
- Nightly accommodation in traditional riads and a luxury desert camp.
- Breakfasts and dinners (as specified in the itinerary).
- Camel trek in the Sahara Desert.
- Guided tours in Fes, Tinghir, and Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou.
Not included
- Entrance fees to historical sites.
- Lunches and beverages.
- Tips for drivers and guides.