Exploring Morocco’s Beauty: Desert Tours from Tangier
Author:
Alyssa Faraji
Published:
Tangier is a vibrant city located in the north of Morocco, known for its fascinating history, colorful markets, and stunning coastline. However, one of the most exciting things about Tangier is its proximity to the Sahara desert, which makes it an ideal starting point for desert tours.
Tangier Desert tours offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the vast and beautiful Sahara desert, which covers much of North Africa. These tours typically include a range of activities, such as camel rides, sandboarding, and visits to traditional Berber villages.
Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking views of the desert landscape, including towering sand dunes, rugged mountains, and endless stretches of golden sand.
Tangier, located in northern Morocco, is a great starting point for exploring the Sahara desert. Here are some reasons why Tangier should be your top choice for a desert tour:
Location and Accessibility
Tangier is located in close proximity to the Sahara desert, making it an ideal starting point for a desert tour. The city is also easily accessible by air, sea, and land transportation, making it a convenient destination for travelers from all over the world.
Unique Landscapes and Scenery
The Sahara desert is known for its unique and breathtaking landscapes and scenery. From the vast sand dunes to the rocky mountains, you will be amazed by the natural beauty of the desert. Tangier desert tours offer a variety of routes and itineraries that will take you to some of the most stunning and remote locations in the Sahara.
One popular destination is the Erg Chebbi dunes, located near the town of Merzouga. These towering sand dunes are a sight to behold, especially during sunrise and sunset. Another popular destination is the Draa Valley, which is known for its lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The Sahara desert is home to many Berber tribes, who have been living in the region for thousands of years. A desert tour from Tangier will give you the opportunity to learn about their culture and way of life. You will also visit historic sites, such as the Ait Benhaddou kasbah, which has been used as a filming location for many Hollywood movies.
Overall, Tangier is a great starting point for exploring the Sahara desert. With its convenient location, unique landscapes, and cultural significance, it is no wonder why many travelers choose Tangier for their desert tour.
Popular Morocco Desert Tour starting from Tangier
1-Day Tour to the Sahara Desert
For those who have limited time but still want to experience the magic of the Sahara desert, a 1-day tour from Tangier is the perfect option. The tour starts early in the morning and takes you on a journey through the Rif Mountains, passing by Tetouan and Chefchaouen before arriving at the desert. Once there, you will have the opportunity to go on a camel ride and explore the dunes of the Sahara before heading back to Tangier in the evening.
2-Day Tour to Merzouga
For a more immersive experience, a 2-day tour to Merzouga is a great option. The tour takes you through the Middle Atlas Mountains and the Ziz Valley, where you can see the stunning scenery of the region. In Merzouga, you will have the chance to ride a camel into the dunes and spend the night in a traditional Berber camp, where you can enjoy a delicious dinner and watch the stars in the clear desert sky.
3-Day Tour to Fes and Merzouga
If you have a few more days to spare, a 3-day tour to Fes and Merzouga is a great way to experience both the cultural and natural beauty of Morocco. The tour takes you to the ancient city of Fes, where you can explore the medina and its many souks, before heading to Merzouga to experience the desert.
Along the way, you will visit the Todra Gorge and the Dades Valley, two stunning natural wonders of Morocco. Overall, there are many options for desert tours from Tangier, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you have just a day or several days to spare, there is a tour that will suit your needs and allow you to discover the beauty of Morocco’s desert regions.
What to Expect on a Desert Tour from Tangier
Transportation and Accommodation
When booking a desert tour from Tangier, visitors can expect to be picked up from their hotel or a designated meeting point in Tangier. The mode of transportation will depend on the tour company and the itinerary selected. Some tours may use private cars, while others may use buses or 4×4 vehicles for the off-road parts of the journey.
Accommodation during the desert tour will vary depending on the itinerary. Visitors can expect to stay in a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and traditional desert camps. The camps may be equipped with basic amenities such as shared bathrooms and showers, while some may offer more luxurious options such as private tents with en-suite bathrooms.
Activities and Excursions
Desert tours from Tangier offer a range of activities and excursions for visitors to enjoy. These may include camel rides through the desert, sandboarding on the dunes, and stargazing at night. Visitors may also have the opportunity to visit local Berber villages and learn about their culture and way of life. Some tours may include visits to historical sites such as Ait Benhaddou or the Todra Gorge.
Food and Dining
Food is an important aspect of any Moroccan tour, and desert tours from Tangier are no exception. Visitors can expect to enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine, which typically includes tagines, couscous, and grilled meats. Vegetarian options are usually available upon request. Meals are often served family-style, with guests sharing dishes around a communal table.
During the desert portion of the tour, meals may be prepared over an open fire or in a communal kitchen. Visitors should be aware that food options may be limited in the desert, and should bring any necessary snacks or dietary supplements with them.
Overall, visitors can expect a unique and memorable experience on a desert tour from Tangier. With a mix of transportation, accommodation, activities, and dining options, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Tips for Planning Your Desert Tour from Tangier
Planning a desert tour from Tangier can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, there are several factors to consider before embarking on your journey. Here are some tips to help you plan your desert tour from Tangier.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Sahara desert is during the cooler months of October to April. During this time, temperatures are more moderate, making it easier to explore the desert. However, keep in mind that desert temperatures can fluctuate greatly between day and night, so be sure to pack accordingly.
What to Pack
When packing for your desert tour, it’s important to keep in mind the climate and terrain of the Sahara desert. Be sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing that will protect you from the sun and sand. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also essential.
Be sure to bring sturdy, comfortable shoes and a warm jacket for the cooler desert nights. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning desert landscapes!
Booking and Pricing for Morocco Desert tours
When booking your desert tour, be sure to research different tour companies and read reviews from previous customers. This will ensure that you choose a reputable company that offers a safe and enjoyable experience.
Prices for desert tours can vary greatly depending on the length of the tour, the type of accommodations, and the activities included. Be sure to compare prices and read the fine print before booking your tour.
Best Tangier Morocco Tours from Tangier city
There are several excellent tour options to consider when exploring Tangier and its surroundings. Some of the best tours from Tangier city include:
Tangier City Tour: Discover the highlights of Tangier on a guided tour that takes you to key attractions such as the Kasbah, the Medina, and the modern city. Explore the vibrant markets, historical sites, and gain insight into the city’s unique blend of cultures.
Tangier to Chefchaouen Day Trip: Embark on a day trip to the picturesque Blue City of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains. Wander through the blue-painted streets, visit the local markets, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Tangier to Fes Tour: Travel from Tangier to the historic city of Fes, stopping at notable landmarks along the way, such as the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the imperial city of Meknes. Explore Fes’ famous Medina, its architectural marvels, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture.
Tangier to Marrakech Tour: Experience the diverse landscapes and cultural highlights of Morocco on a multi-day tour from Tangier to Marrakech, visiting cities such as Fes, Meknes, and Rabat along the way. Enjoy the majestic Atlas Mountains, the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square in Marrakech, and the stunning architecture of the Bahia Palace.
Tangier to Sahara Desert Tour: Embark on an unforgettable journey from Tangier to the Sahara Desert, stopping at attractions like Chefchaouen, Fes, and the Atlas Mountains. Experience camel trekking, spend a night in a desert camp, and marvel at the beauty of the Erg Chebbi sand dunes.
These are just a few examples of the fantastic tours available from Tangier city. Be sure to choose a reputable tour operator to ensure a safe and memorable experience while exploring the diverse beauty of Morocco or get customized desert tours especially tailored for your likes.
FAQs on Morocco Desert Tours from Tangier
How far is the desert from Tangier?
The distance from Tangier to the Sahara Desert, specifically to the popular desert destination of Merzouga, is approximately 675 kilometres (420 miles). The journey can take around 10 to 12 hours by car, depending on the chosen route and stops along the way. Desert tours from Tangier often span several days to include overnight stays and visits to various attractions en route to the Sahara Desert.
What can I expect to see on a desert tour from Tangier?
On a desert tour from Tangier, you can expect to visit a variety of attractions and landmarks as you journey towards the Sahara Desert. These may include the Blue City of Chefchaouen, the imperial cities of Fes and Meknes, the stunning Atlas Mountains, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou. Once you reach the desert, you’ll likely experience camel trekking, a night under the stars at a desert camp, and the mesmerising beauty of the sand dunes.
On a private morocco tour, many extras might be included and you can tailor them to suit you.
How long does a desert tour from Tangier typically last?
Desert tours from Tangier can vary in duration, with options ranging from 2 days to a week or more, depending on the itinerary and the places you wish to visit en route to the Sahara Desert. A typical desert tour from Tangier to Merzouga lasts around 4 to 5 days, allowing time to explore various attractions and enjoy the desert experience at a comfortable pace.
How far is Tangier from Marrakech?
The distance between Tangier and Marrakech is approximately 580 kilometres (360 miles). The journey by car takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and chosen route. Alternatively, you can travel by train, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, or by bus, which typically takes 9 to 10 hours.
What are some popular Marrakech desert tours?
Popular desert tour destinations from Marrakech include Merzouga and Erg Chebbi, which are famous for their towering sand dunes and stunning landscapes, as well as Zagora and the Draa Valley, known for their unique desert scenery and palm groves. These tours often include stops at the Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou, and the Dades and Todra Gorges.
