7-Day Morocco Tour from Tangier

The 7-Day Morocco Tour from Tangier, offered at $1,021.03 per person, provides a comprehensive introduction to the country’s most iconic destinations. Spanning six cities in just one week, this tour packs in visits to Fez, Marrakech, Meknes, Rabat, Casablanca, and Tangier, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors eager to see Morocco’s highlights. With a small-group format limited to 14 people, the experience emphasizes personalized attention and expert guidance. The tour also includes hotel pickups, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and some meals, offering a good value for those seeking a well-organized, immersive journey.

The tour’s pacing involves substantial time on the bus, with some days featuring long drives through Morocco’s diverse landscapes. While this means less time at each site, it also enables seeing multiple cities in a relatively short period. The reviews note that sightseeing stops can feel brief, and there’s limited free time for independent exploration at certain locations. The mix of guided tours and local guides in each city aims to deepen understanding of Morocco’s rich culture and history.

Key Points

• All four imperial cities—Fez, Marrakech, Meknes, and Rabat—are visited in one week.
• The tour features highlights like the Tanners Quarter of Fez, UNESCO-listed ruins of Meknes, and Hassan II Mosque in Rabat.
• Great value includes airport transfers, accommodation, and some meals.
• The group size is small, with a maximum of 14 participants, for more personalized guidance.
• The itinerary involves long bus days, with some travel time spent en route between cities.
• Passports and customs are necessary, as the tour crosses from Spain into Morocco and involves ferry travel.

Starting in Tangier and Crossing the Strait of Gibraltar

The tour begins with a departure from the Costa del Sol or Tangier, crossing the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco. Upon arrival in Tangier, the first exploration includes Hercules Caves, where a $6 entrance fee applies, and Cap Spartel. This initial sightseeing gives travelers a taste of Morocco’s Atlantic coast and coastal scenery, with some free time for lunch in Tangier before heading inland.

The surroundings of Tangier set the tone for this trip, combining coastal charm with vibrant city life. The tour’s pickup service makes logistics straightforward, whether arriving from Spain or within Morocco.

Exploring Tangier and the Hercules Caves

The first day includes a tour of Tangier, focusing on its historic and cultural sites, such as the Hercules Caves and Cap Spartel. These attractions highlight Morocco’s mythic and geographical significance. Visitors enjoy a five-hour introduction to Tangier, with free admission to the caves and scenic viewpoints.

This initial stop provides a blend of natural beauty and history, with the guide offering context about Tangier’s role as a gateway between Africa and Europe. The optional visit to the caves is a highlight, though travelers should budget extra for the entrance fee.

Journey Through the Middle Atlas to Fez and the Roman Ruins

On Day 2, the group travels through the Middle Atlas, making a key stop at Volubilis to explore Roman ruins dating back to 217 AD. The site features the Decumanus Maximus and Triumphal Arch of Caracalla, with free admission. Afterward, the journey continues to Fez, Morocco’s former imperial capital and spiritual hub.

In Fez Mellah, visitors can see the medina, Royal Palace with seven gates, and experience the vibrant Tanners Quarter. Guided tours illuminate the city’s religious and merchant traditions, giving a deeper understanding of Morocco’s cultural fabric. The itinerary provides a couple of hours at each site, offering a taste rather than exhaustive exploration.

Discovering Fez’s Historic and Cultural Heart

The third day deepens the exploration of Fez, with a focus on its medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The panoramic tour from the hotel grants views of landmarks like the Royal Palace. Since the city is Morocco’s intellectual and religious capital, the guide explains its significance in Moroccan history and society.

Visitors enjoy the chance to see medina alleyways, traditional crafts, and the Tanners Quarter, renowned for its historic leatherwork. The tour’s structure emphasizes guided explanations rather than free roaming, providing insights into Fez’s centuries-old traditions.

Transit from Fez to Marrakech with a Casablanca Stop

On Day 4, the journey from Fez to Marrakech includes a stop in Casablanca. Here, travelers have an hour for lunch along the famous Corniche and can optionally visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques with impressive architecture and ocean views.

Afterward, the group continues to Marrakech, arriving in the afternoon for a dinner and overnight stay. The drive between these major cities allows travelers to enjoy Morocco’s varied landscapes, with the guide providing commentary along the way.

Guided Tour of Marrakech’s Highlights

Day 5 is dedicated to Marrakech, where the guide leads a three-hour tour of key sites. Notable stops include the Koutoubia Mosque, with its iconic minaret, and the Bahia Palace, known for its intricate architecture. The Jewish Mellah offers insights into Morocco’s diverse communities.

The vibrant souks and bustling medina are central to Marrakech’s charm, though guided tours focus on the main landmarks. Visitors learn about Moroccan craftsmanship, history, and religion, making this day an engaging introduction to the city’s lively atmosphere.

Visiting Rabat and the Hassan Tower

Day 6 involves a full-day trip to Rabat, Morocco’s administrative capital and royal residence. The Hassan Tower, an unfinished mosque, is a major highlight, along with nearby sites like the Royal Palace and Kasbah of the Udayas. The 12-hour day includes an in-depth exploration of Rabat’s political and historical role.

This stop offers a mix of historic monuments and modern government buildings, with the guide providing context on Rabat’s importance in contemporary Morocco. The experience balances sightseeing with cultural education, making it a memorable part of the tour.

Return to Tangier and Departure

On the final day, after a breakfast, the group departs from Rabat back to Tangier. The journey involves about an hour of travel to the ferry port, where assistance is provided for boarding the ferry back to Spain. From there, group members are transferred to the Costa del Sol or their original point of departure.

This last leg wraps up the week-long adventure, with the logistics streamlined by the tour provider. The overall experience offers a broad sweep of Morocco’s imperial cities, with guided insights to enhance understanding.

Practical Details and Considerations

This private tour is organized by Argania Travel and emphasizes small-group travel for personalized service. Pickup and drop-off are included, along with air-conditioned transport, but note that there is no bathroom on the coach. A passport is required for crossing borders, and each traveler can carry one suitcase.

The tour is suitable for most travelers but involves long bus days and some walking at key sites. It’s also important to remember that food and drinks outside those specified are not included, and entrance fees are typically not covered.

Limitations Noted in Reviews

While the tour offers a rundown, some say that sightseeing time at each stop can be limited, and there’s often little free time at individual sites. The bus rides can be lengthy, sometimes taking most of the day, which may affect those who prefer more relaxed exploration or independent wandering.

Morocco in a Nutshell: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This 7-day tour is best suited for travelers eager to see Morocco’s imperial cities in a structured, guided format. It appeals to those who enjoy cultural highlights, historic landmarks, and organized transportation. The small-group setting and included logistics make it convenient, though those seeking extensive free time or in-depth exploration at each site might find it a bit rushed.

This tour offers value, a broad overview, and insightful guides, making it a strong choice for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Morocco’s diverse cities and landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long bus days and walking involved. Child rates apply only when sharing with two paying adults.

What should I bring?
A valid passport, a suitcase (one per person), and comfortable shoes for walking are recommended. There is no bathroom on the bus, so plan accordingly.

Are meals included?
Some meals are included, such as breakfasts and dinners, but not all food and drinks are covered unless specified.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is possible up to 15 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 15 days before the start are not eligible for refunds.

Does the tour cover local guides at each destination?
Yes, the tour includes a Moroccan guide and local guides in each city, enriching the experience with local insights.

Is this tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
The itinerary involves walking at sites and long bus rides, so travelers with mobility challenges should consider this before booking.