6 Days Desert Tour From Marrakech to Fes

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – Roses Valley – Dades Valley (6 Hours Drive)

Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your Marrakech accommodation or the airport. The day’s journey through the High Atlas Mountains offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities as you make your way to the famous Tizi-N-Tichka pass. The winding roads offer sweeping panoramic views of the mountainous terrain, making for a memorable introduction to Morocco’s diverse landscapes.

After the scenic drive, you will reach Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic filming location for movies like Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones. After exploring the kasbah, the journey continues through the Rose Valley and Skoura Palm Grove before arriving at Dades Valley for the evening. Here, you’ll relax and spend the night in a comfortable hotel or riad.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Dunes – Camel Trekking – Overnight in Luxury Camp (5 Hours Drive)

On the second day, your journey takes you through Dades Valley to Todra Gorges, a natural wonder that has carved a canyon into the mountains. These red cliffs make for a striking landscape, and you’ll have time to wander and enjoy the beauty of the area. As you continue toward Merzouga, you’ll stop in Touroug and Tinjdad, famous for their palm groves.

Upon arriving at the Merzouga Desert, switch to camels for a desert trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. The sunset over the dunes is a magical sight, and you will be led to your luxury desert camp for the evening. Relax around a campfire with Berber music, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, and spend the night in luxury tents under the stars.

Day 3: Explore Merzouga Region – Nomads – Khamlia – Merzouga Lake – Erg Chebbi – Palm Grove (2 Hours Drive)

Wake up early to catch the sunrise in the desert, a truly unforgettable experience. After breakfast, you’ll return to Merzouga and embark on a full day of exploration around the region. First, you’ll visit the nomadic Berber camps, where you can learn about traditional desert life while sipping on Berber tea.

Next, continue to Khamlia Village, where the local people of sub-Saharan African descent will treat you to Gnaoua music and dance. From there, head to the Merzouga Lake, also known as Flamingos Lake, to witness the unique birdlife. In the afternoon, you’ll take a stroll through the palm groves before returning to your accommodation for the night.

Day 4: Merzouga Dunes – Erfoud – Midelt – Cedars Forest – Ifrane – Fes (7 Hours Drive)

After an early breakfast, depart Merzouga and head towards Rissani, the ancient capital of Tafilalet. This vibrant town is home to a bustling souk, where locals sell everything from spices to textiles. Continue your journey through Erfoud, a town known for its fossilized marble workshops.

As you drive along the Ziz River, stop to admire the Ziz Valley, offering a breathtaking view of the palms and mountains. After a stop for lunch in Midelt, head to the cedar forests of Ifrane, where you can spot the famous Barbary macaques. Arrive in Fes in the evening, ready for an exciting exploration of this UNESCO-listed city.

Day 5: Guided Sightseeing Tour of Fes (3 to 4 Hours Walking Tour)

On Day 5, immerse yourself in the historic charm of Fes, starting with a driving tour around the Royal Palace Gate and Jewish Quarter (Mellah). Enjoy panoramic views of the Fes Medina from Borj Sud, before heading to the Ceramic Village to witness traditional Moroccan pottery.

In the afternoon, explore the narrow streets of the Fes Medina with a local guide, visiting highlights like the Al Attarine Madrasa, Al Quaraouiyine University, and the Chouara Tanneries. This half-day tour offers a deep dive into Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.

Day 6: Transfer to Fes Airport (30 Minutes Drive)

On the final day of your tour, enjoy a relaxed morning before being transferred to Fes Airport for your departure, marking the end of this unforgettable journey.