5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas – Aït Ben Haddou – Dades Valley

The journey begins with a morning departure from Marrakech, winding through the High Atlas Mountains. Scenic stops along the way allow you to admire panoramic views and traditional Berber villages.

Your first major destination is the fortified village of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Exploring the ksar gives insight into Morocco’s historic caravan routes and architecture. After lunch nearby, the journey continues through the Route of a Thousand Kasbahs, arriving in the Dades Valley, where the dramatic cliffs and valleys provide a stunning setting for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga Desert

After breakfast, you travel to the Todra Gorges, a breathtaking canyon with towering cliffs and a flowing river. Time is provided to walk and explore the gorge before continuing east toward the desert.

Upon arrival in Merzouga, camels await a magical trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi. Watching the sunset from the sand is an unforgettable experience. Dinner and an overnight stay are arranged in a desert camp beneath a sky full of stars, offering the full Sahara experience.

Day 3: Full Exploration of the Merzouga Desert

The day begins early with the opportunity to watch sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast. This full day is dedicated to exploring the Merzouga region and experiencing desert life beyond the dunes.

You will visit a small village known for its musical heritage, where you can learn about local traditions and rhythms. The journey continues into more remote desert areas, offering insight into the daily life of nomadic families. A stop at a hidden oasis provides a peaceful setting for a picnic lunch surrounded by palm trees and sand.

As the day draws to a close, you will return to the dunes to enjoy sunset from a scenic viewpoint. Dinner is served in the desert, followed by a second night under the stars, making this a truly immersive Sahara experience.

Day 4: Merzouga – Errachidia – Zaida – Azrou – Fes

After breakfast, depart Merzouga and head north through the scenic Ziz Valley, famous for its lush palm groves and desert landscapes. Stop briefly in Errachidia and Zaida to admire the highland scenery and local villages.

Continue through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Azrou to see the cedar forests and the Barbary macaques that inhabit them. The route then passes through Ifrane, a town with European-style architecture and calm, alpine-like streets.

From Ifrane, the journey concludes in Fes, arriving in the evening.

Day 5: Fes – Medina Exploration – Airport Transfer

On the final day, after breakfast, you will explore the legendary medina of Fes, one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its narrow alleys, vibrant souks, and historic landmarks, taking in the traditional architecture, artisan workshops, and lively local markets.

After your morning or afternoon tour of the medina, you will be transferred to the airport according to your departure schedule, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable 5-day tour from Marrakech to Fes.