15 Days Journey through the Mediterranean & The Desert and the Mountains Culture Tour

Highlights 

• Experience the thrill of crossing from Europe to Africa via ferry, arriving in the vibrant city of Tangier.
• Explore the legendary Grottes d’Hercule and Cap Spartel Lighthouse with breathtaking views and rich history.
• Wander through Chefchaouen, known for its serene blue-washed buildings and picturesque mountain scenery.
• Journey along Morocco’s stunning Mediterranean coast, stopping at hidden gems like Al-Hoceima and its pristine beaches.
• Delve into Fes’ ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and uncover its architectural marvels and vibrant souks.
• on a camel trek in Merzouga, witness a mesmerizing desert sunset, and spend the night under the stars in a traditional Berber camp.

Day 1 : Tangier Arrival

Welcome to Tangier, the gateway between Europe and Africa! For a truly unique experience, consider taking the ferry from Spain to Morocco, where you can enjoy the thrilling sensation of crossing from one continent to another in just under an hour. Whether you arrive by ferry or at Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport, our friendly driver will be waiting for you, holding a sign with your name, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free start to your Moroccan adventure.
Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to discover some of Tangier’s must-see sights. A dramatic drive takes you through La Montagne over a pine-covered headland to the Cap Spartel Lighhouse that lies just 14km west of Tangier. 5km further you’ll get to Grottes d’Hercule where you’ll have much-photographed view from within the mythical dwelling cave of Hercules that resembles a map of Africa. Back to the Medina where you’ll spend a few hours Meandering down the alleyways, within its 15th century Portuguese fortress walls to visit the Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Culture.

Day 2 : Tangier City Tour

We start this tour from the gateway of Europe to Africa, Tangier named for the goddess Tinge, and the lover of Hercules, who mythically pulled Europe apart from Africa to form the Strait Gibraltar. A dramatic drive takes you through La Montagne over a pine-covered headland to the Cap Spartel Lighthouse that lies just 14km west of Tangier. 5km further you’ll get to Grottes d’Hercule where you’ll have much-photographed view from within the mythical dwelling cave of Hercules that resembles a map of Africa. Back to the Medina where you’ll spend a few hours Meandering down the alleyways, within its 15th century Portuguese fortress walls to visit the Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Culture. Wander up St Andrew’s Church for a spot of gravestone reading, then take in the latest art exhibition at center culturel Ibn Khaldoun.

Day 3 : Tangier – Chefchaouen

Leaving Tangier behind, you’ll head to Chefchaouen, the famed Blue City nestled in the Rif Mountains. The journey itself is a feast for the eyes, with picturesque landscapes unfolding along the route. Chefchaouen captivates with its serene blue-washed buildings and narrow, winding streets adorned with vibrant splashes of color. Spend your day exploring the medina, known for its local crafts, and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of this mountain gem.

Day 4 : Chefchaouen – Mediterranean Coast – Al-Houceïma

Head east along the 210km coast passing through the most beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean Ocean, Steha, Jabha, Cala Iris to the dry canyons and limestone cliffs of Al-Houciema National Park. You’ll stopover for a small village famed with its history of piracy called Targha. High atop an outcrop of back rock, a stone fort where the 13th century mosque is associated with a local saint, and then cut off in Steha and Cala Iris. From here the road follows the coast on a splendid roller-coaster ride to the blue –and-white town of El-Jebha. Continue east to the city of Abdelkarim El Khattabi « Al-Houciema », the city that was built as a garrison after the Rif Wars in the early 20th century. In Al-Hoceima, unwind on sandy beaches framed by azure waters, or explore nearby natural reserves such as the Bades National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna.

Day 5 : Al-Houceïma – Zegzel Gorges – Oujda

Take the route east From Al-Houceima to Oujda. We’ll wander up a verdant area of scenic gorges that few imagine when they think of Morocco, and even fewer visit. The ruggedly beautiful Beni-Snassen Mountains. While you’re here it’s highly recommended to visit the site of an active excavation by Oxford University, the Grottes des Pigeons, which has revealed human remains from the Pleistocene era including some 80.000 years old early human jewelry. Few other kilometers bring you to Grottes de Chameau with its camel-like in shape. In about 3km further the pretty 10km long of Zegzel Gorges. Do not miss the chance to sample the cumquats, a local industry. Even the Romans remarked upon them. Not far from here the home of Ria music. Despite of Oujda’s heritage, it receives very few foreign travelers. The reason for this is because it was once the busiest border crossing with Algeria, making it popular with traders and tourists alike. When border closed in 1994, Oujda’s economy took a major hit and lost most of passing trade, and a steady flow of tourists indeed.

Day 6 : Oujda – Fes

At the morning and before you head to Fes you’ll soak into the three-side walled Medina and around. Further south, through the highway we get to the Imperial city of Fes, it is more quintessentially Moroccan in its ancient Medina.

Day 7 : Fes Cultural Guided Medina Tour

Today, delve deep into the labyrinthine streets of Fes’ ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, discover architectural marvels like the Bou Inania Madrasa and the University of Al Quaraouiyine. Experience the vibrant souks, where artisans craft intricate goods, and visit the tanneries, where leather is dyed using traditional methods. The sights, sounds, and scents of Fes will leave an indelible mark on your senses.
After your medina tour, you have the option to extend your experience. Choose between indulging in a delicious homemade meal at Lalla Aicha’s place in Sefrou or pampering yourself with a traditional Moroccan Hammam Spa.

Day 8 : Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert

Leave Fes behind as you journey towards Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its European-style architecture and alpine ambiance. Pause to admire the beauty of the city before continuing through the Middle Atlas Mountains to Midelt. Nestled amidst verdant valleys and snow-capped peaks, Midelt offers a serene retreat amidst nature’s splendor. After lunch, Embark on a scenic drive through the Ziz Valley, passing by date palm oases and Berber villages. Arrive in Erfoud, known for its fossil finds and traditional markets. Continue to the vast dunes of Merzouga, gateway to the Sahara Desert, you can store any baggage while packing an overnight bag to bring along. Here, embark on an unforgettable camel trek into the dunes to witness a mesmerizing desert sunset. Spend the night under a canopy of stars in a desert camp, experiencing Berber hospitality and enjoying traditional music around a campfire.

Day 9 : Merzouga desert – Risani – Todgra Gorge – Dades Gorges

This morning you’ll wake up with the sun shining on you face to witness what we hope is a glorious sunrise among the dunes. After an hour-ride camel back out of the desert, Bid farewell to the desert landscape as you head towards the oasis town of Risani, a historical trading hub. Journey through the dramatic Todgra Gorge, where sheer limestone cliffs tower overhead. Continue to the Dades Gorges, known for their stunning rock formations and fertile valleys. Explore the picturesque Dades Valley, dotted with kasbahs and traditional Berber villages.

Day 10 : Dades gorges– Ait Benhadou- Atlas Mount – Marrakech

ksar, a fortified village that stands as a testament to Morocco’s ancient earthen architecture. Explore the maze-like streets flanked by traditional mud-brick houses, each corner revealing glimpses of a bygone era where caravans once traversed the Sahara. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. This winding mountain road reaches heights of over 2,200 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and terraced hillsides adorned with almond and cherry orchards. Keep your camera ready as you pass through Berber villages clinging to the mountainsides, their red-earth houses blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Arrive in Marrakech, where ancient traditions blend with modern allure in the vibrant medina and bustling souks.

Day 11 : Marrakech walk & talk Guided Medina Tour

Good morning land of jokes and fun!

Discover the myriad charms of Marrakech on a guided tour through its labyrinthine medina. With your private Marrakech born and bred guide you embark exploring the Red City from its old part with its Medina’s skinny lanes that leads to lavish sites, tombs and religious monuments decked out in marble. Bahia and El-Badii Palace and Saadien’s Tombs will be your targets. Afterward, you driver/Tour Guide will pick you up for the outside medina visit to explore the Majorelle Garden, Museum Saint Laurent, Berber Museum. While in Marrakech you will surely encounter thousands of motorcyclists and horse-carts roaming in the city and some of them pull over next the vast square of Jemaa El-Fnaa where it’s carnival night every night and musicians, acrobats, storytellers and slapstick acting troupes tap into the Medina frenetic pulse.

Day 12 : Marrakech – Essaouira

After having your breakfast at the Riad, you’ll be picked up by your driver/tour guide around 08:00am, you will head to Essaouira. Beside the road we’ll have the chance to see the tree goats’ phenomenon, before having enough time to explore Jimi Hendrix’s town. You’re free to roam in the city that was once and still a haven for hippie backpackers and Gnawa musicians. You can book a local guide, if not you can start your visit by the ramparts a series of forts that were built in the 15th century around the Medina of Mogador. Inside the Medina you’ll have the chance visit The Mellah (former Jewish quarter), the Morocco’s 3rd fishing port where you can have a delicious fish meal. For the sports-oriented travelers, Essaouira is a place to some fine wind and kitesurfing schools.

Day 13 : Essaouira – El-Jadida – Casablanca

Around 8am you’ll head north to the 15 century Portuguese fortified city of Mazagan known now as El-Jadida, nicknamed «the Deauville of Morocco» its Portuguese structures, fortified ramparts and a system of defense surrounding the Medina which advances out into the sea, all evoke the city’s past history. (Listed as World Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO), an ancient coastal town impressive testimony of Portuguese architecture. Driving north to Casablanca where you spend your night before leaving to Tangier.

Day 14 : Casablanca – Rabat – Tangier

If time didn’t allow you to visit Casablanca’s sights yesterday, you must do it this morning. After exploring Casa, Morocco’s political and administrative capital, Rabat, will be waiting. While Rabat may be short on top-drawer tourist attractions, it compensates with plenty of charm. You will have the opportunity to explore the city briefly, starting with the monumental Hassan Tower and the pillared stumps of its mosque, remnants from the earthquake of 1755. There is also the nearby Mausoleum of the royal family. Don’t miss having a cup of mint tea in the red Oudayas, a walled village within the city.
Next, head further north to the charming coastal town of Asilah. Known for its whitewashed buildings and vibrant murals, Asilah offers a peaceful break. Stroll through the medina, enjoy the seaside views, and perhaps visit the 15th-century ramparts and towers.
Finally, continue to the famously decadent Tangier, a city that has always carried a slightly seedy allure, partly due to its time as a semi-independent international zone that attracted eccentric foreigners, artists, and spies. The corniche bustles with life and offers a glimpse into the unique atmosphere of this intriguing city.

Day 15 : Tangier departure

Your Moroccan adventure draws to a close as you depart from Tangier. Reflect on the memories created during your journey through Morocco’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. Your driver/tour guide will ensure a timely transfer to the airport or the Ferry station, ensuring you arrive three hours prior to your scheduled flight departure. This allows ample time for check-in and security procedures, ensuring a smooth and stress-free departure.