8-Day Tangier Imperial Circuit & Sahara Desert Tour

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through Morocco's imperial past and desert wonders. This meticulously crafted tour takes you from Tangier's Mediterranean charm through the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen, the ancient medinas of Fes and Meknes, the golden dunes of the Sahara, and the regal capital of Rabat. Experience the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty as you explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, ride camels into the sunset, and discover the rich tapestry of Moroccan imperial heritage.

Tour Highlights

• Tangier's Coastal Beauty - Historic medina and Atlantic Ocean views
• Chefchaouen's Blue Wonder - Iconic azure-painted streets and mountain backdrop
• Fes El Bali - World's largest living medieval medina and famous tanneries
• Meknes Imperial City - Grand gates, royal stables, and mausoleums
• Volubilis Roman Ruins - Best-preserved Roman archaeological site in Morocco
• Middle Atlas Landscapes - Cedar forests, Berber villages, and mountain passes
• Erg Chebbi Dunes - Towering golden sand formations of the Sahara
• Camel Trekking - Sunset and sunrise rides into the desert
• Luxury Desert Camp - Authentic Berber hospitality under the stars
• Todra Gorges - Dramatic canyon landscapes
• Rabat's Royal Heritage - Modern capital with ancient roots

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Tangier to Chefchaouen

• Morning: Meet your guide and explore Tangier's historic medina and kasbah
• Late Morning: Visit Cape Spartel and the legendary Caves of Hercules
• Afternoon: Scenic drive through the Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen
• Evening: Sunset walk through the famous blue medina
• Distance: 210 km | Drive time: 4-5 hours

Day 2: Chefchaouen to Fes

• Morning: Guided tour of Chefchaouen's blue-washed streets and markets
• Midday: Local lunch in Chefchaouen
• Afternoon: Journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains to Fes
• Evening: Orientation walk in Fes medina
• Distance: 280 km | Drive time: 5-6 hours

Day 3: Fes to Merzouga

• Early Morning: In-depth exploration of Fes medina, including the famous tanneries
• Mid-Morning: Depart for Merzouga through diverse landscapes
• Afternoon: Stop in Ifrane and Midelt, cross the Ziz Valley
• Evening: Arrive in Merzouga, sunset camel trek to desert camp
• Distance: 465 km | Drive time: 8-9 hours (with stops)

Day 4: Merzouga Desert Experience

• Sunrise: Early morning in the dunes (optional)
• Morning: Return to Merzouga village, breakfast at the hotel
• Midday: Visit to Khamlia village for Gnawa music experience
• Afternoon: Free time to relax or optional activities
• Evening: Second night in desert camp with traditional music

Day 5: Merzouga to Meknes

• Sunrise: Final desert sunrise (optional)
• Morning: Drive through the stunning Todra Gorges
• Afternoon: Continue to Meknes, the "Versailles of Morocco"
• Evening: First impressions of Meknes' imperial grandeur
• Distance: 450 km | Drive time: 8-9 hours (with stops)

Day 6: Meknes & Volubilis

• Morning: Explore Meknes' imperial sites including Bab Mansour and Moulay Ismail Mausoleum
• Midday: Traditional Moroccan lunch in Meknes
• Afternoon: Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Evening: Return to Meknes for dinner and relaxation

Day 7: Meknes to Rabat

• Morning: Final exploration of Meknes' medina and souks
• Afternoon: Drive to Rabat, Morocco's modern capital
• Late Afternoon: Visit the Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum
• Evening: Stroll along the Bou Regreg River
• Distance: 240 km | Drive time: 3-4 hours (with stops)

Day 8: Rabat & Departure

• Morning: Guided tour of Rabat's highlights including the Kasbah of the Udayas and Chellah Necropolis
• Midday: Lunch at a traditional restaurant in the medina
• Afternoon: Transfer to Rabat-Salé Airport or your next destination

What's Included

• Private, air-conditioned 4x4 or minivan transportation
• 7 nights' accommodation (6 in hotels/riads, 1 in luxury desert camp)
• Daily breakfast at your accommodation
• 1 dinner in the desert camp
• Camel trekking in Merzouga (one camel per person)
• Professional English/French/Spanish-speaking driver/guide
• Local guides in Fes, Meknes, and Rabat
• All entrance fees to mentioned sites and monuments
• Hotel/port pick-up in Tangier and drop-off in Rabat
• All applicable taxes and service charges

What's Not Included

• International flights to/from Morocco
• Travel insurance (highly recommended)
• Lunches and most dinners (except where specified)
• Personal expenses and souvenirs
• Tips for guides and drivers
• Any additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
• Any additional accommodation before or after the tour

Why Choose This Tour?

• Imperial Heritage: Explore Morocco's four imperial cities in one journey
• Authentic Cultural Immersion: From royal palaces to desert camps
• Small Group Experience: Maximum of 12 travelers for personalized attention
• Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides in each destination
• Comfortable Accommodations: Carefully selected riads and luxury desert camp
• Responsible Tourism: Supporting local communities and sustainable travel practices
• 24/7 Support: Dedicated assistance throughout your journey

Tour Information

• Group Size: Small groups of 2-12 travelers
• Physical Rating: Moderate (involves walking on uneven surfaces and sand dunes)
• Accommodation: 3-4 star riads/hotels + luxury desert camp
• Transport: Private, air-conditioned 4x4 or minivan
• Meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 dinner (in desert camp)
• Best Time to Visit: October to April for pleasant desert temperatures

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I pack for the desert portion?

• Light, breathable clothing for daytime
• Warm layers for cold desert nights
• Sturdy walking shoes and sandals
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen)
• Camera with extra batteries
• Personal toiletries and medications
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Small backpack for daily essentials

How physically demanding is the camel trek?

The camel trek to the desert camp is about 1-1.5 hours each way. While not extremely strenuous, you should be comfortable sitting on a camel for this duration. Those with back problems may prefer the 4x4 transfer to the camp.

What are the bathroom facilities like in the desert camp?

Our luxury desert camp features private tents with en-suite bathrooms including western-style toilets and hot showers. Basic desert camps have shared bathroom facilities.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, but please consider the long driving days and desert conditions. We can adjust the itinerary for families with children.

What's the best time of year for this tour?

The ideal time is October to April when desert temperatures are pleasant (20-25°C during the day, 5-10°C at night). Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot (40-45°C).

Can I charge my electronics in the desert camp?

Yes, our luxury desert camp has solar-powered electricity in the main tent for charging devices. However, power may be limited, so we recommend bringing power banks.

What type of food is served during the tour?

You'll enjoy a mix of traditional Moroccan cuisine including tagines, couscous, and fresh salads. Vegetarian options are available with advance notice.

What happens if there's bad weather?

In rare cases of extreme weather (sandstorms, heavy rain), we may adjust the itinerary for safety. Your guide will make the best decisions based on conditions.

Can I extend my stay in Rabat?

Yes, we can arrange additional nights in Rabat or help with onward travel arrangements.

Important Notes

• This is a one-way tour starting in Tangier and ending in Rabat
• Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or special requirements in advance
• Travel insurance is highly recommended for all participants
• The itinerary may be adjusted based on weather conditions and local circumstances
• Some sites may be closed on certain days or during specific times of the year
• A moderate level of fitness is required for walking in the desert and exploring medinas
• The desert camp experience is weather-dependent and may be modified if necessary