5-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech
Overview :
This 5-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech takes you on an incredible journey through Morocco’s most breathtaking landscapes. From the lush cedar forests of the Middle Atlas to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert, you’ll experience the best of what the country has to offer. Along the way, you’ll visit ancient kasbahs, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and traditional Berber villages. This adventure is perfect for travelers looking to explore Morocco’s rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Highlights :
🌟 Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping in Ifrane and the Cedar Forest to see wild Barbary macaques.
🌟 Experience a magical camel trek across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi and witness a breathtaking Sahara sunset.
🌟 Spend an unforgettable night in a luxury desert camp, enjoying Berber music, traditional food, and a starry desert sky.
🌟 Explore the historic Rissani market, discover fossil workshops in Erfoud, and admire the dramatic landscapes of Todra and Dades Gorges.
🌟 Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a legendary filming location and a gateway to Morocco’s past.
🌟 Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass, stopping for panoramic views and Berber villages.
🌟 End your journey in Marrakech, where the vibrant souks, palaces, and cultural wonders await.
TOUR GALLERY
Why Choose This Tour?
✅ Authentic Desert Experience – Ride camels across the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes, witness breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, and spend a magical night in a luxury desert camp under a starry sky.
✅ Diverse Landscapes & Hidden Gems – Travel from the Middle Atlas cedar forests to the dramatic Todra Gorges, lush palm valleys, and the iconic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah.
✅ Cultural Immersion – Meet Berber nomads, enjoy traditional Gnaoua music in Khamlia, explore historic kasbahs, and visit authentic markets like Rissani’s lively souk.
✅ Comfort & Convenience – A private, air-conditioned 4×4 or minibus, an experienced English/Spanish-speaking driver, and handpicked accommodations ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
✅ Small Group or Private Tour – Whether you want a personalized experience or a fun trip with friends or family, this tour is tailored to suit your needs.
✅ Unforgettable Memories – From off-road desert adventures to breathtaking High Atlas mountain passes, this tour is filled with unforgettable moments and Instagram-worthy sights.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Journey Through the Middle Atlas: From Fes to the Golden Sands of Merzouga
Day 1 : Journey Through the Middle Atlas: From Fes to the Golden Sands of Merzouga
The tour begins with an early morning pick-up from your accommodation in Fes. Heading south, we drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing picturesque villages and diverse landscapes. Our first stop is Ifrane, often referred to as the Switzerland of Morocco due to its European-style houses, alpine atmosphere, and cool climate. We take a short break here to explore the town and take photos.
Continuing the journey, we arrive at the Cedar Forest near Azrou, home to the famous Barbary macaques. You’ll have time to walk through the forest, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and even interact with the monkeys. From there, we drive towards Midelt, a town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, known for its apple orchards. We stop here for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing our journey south.
The road takes us through the Tizi-n-Tilghmt pass, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. As we descend, we follow the Ziz Valley, one of Morocco’s longest and most beautiful palm valleys, dotted with ancient ksars and traditional villages.
In the late afternoon, we reach the edge of the Sahara Desert in Merzouga. Here, you’ll switch to camels and begin an unforgettable camel trek through the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi. Along the way, we stop on top of a high dune to witness a breathtaking sunset over the desert.
After sunset, we continue to the luxury desert camp, where you will be welcomed with traditional mint tea and Berber hospitality. Enjoy an evening under the vast open sky, with a traditional dinner, Berber drumming performances, and the magic of the star-filled desert night. Overnight stay in a comfortable desert tent.
Day 2 : Discover the Wonders of Merzouga: Nomadic Life, Gnaoua Rhythms & Desert Landscapes
Day 2 : Discover the Wonders of Merzouga: Nomadic Life, Gnaoua Rhythms & Desert Landscapes
Waking up early is a must to witness the sunrise over the dunes, a truly magical experience. After breakfast, we return to Merzouga by camel, where our driver awaits. Today is dedicated to exploring the Merzouga region, which offers a fascinating mix of desert landscapes, Berber culture, and historic sites.
The day starts with an off-road drive to an ancient eyeliner mine, once used by the Berbers for traditional cosmetics. Next, we visit a nomadic family living in handmade woven tents. Here, you’ll have the chance to learn about their way of life while enjoying a cup of Berber tea.
Our journey continues to Khamlia village, known for its Gnaoua music. The locals here are descendants of slaves brought from Sub-Saharan Africa, and their hypnotic rhythms and dance performances are an unforgettable experience. After enjoying the music, we take a break for lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, we take a walk through a beautiful palm grove before heading to Merzouga Lake, also known as Flamingo Lake, where you can spot various bird species (seasonal). After a full day of exploration, we return to Merzouga for dinner and an overnight stay at a traditional riad or hotel.
Day 3: From the Sahara to the Canyons: Exploring Rissani, Todra Gorges & Dades Valley
Day 3: From the Sahara to the Canyons: Exploring Rissani, Todra Gorges & Dades Valley
After breakfast, we leave the desert behind and head towards Rissani, the historic capital of the Tafilalet region. This town is famous for its traditional market, which comes alive on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Walking through the souk, you’ll see stalls selling everything from spices and dates to traditional Berber clothing.
Next, we drive to Erfoud, known as Morocco’s fossil capital. Here, we visit one of the local workshops where fossilized marble is crafted into beautiful artifacts. From Erfoud, we continue through the Touroug and Tinjdad palm groves, leading us to the dramatic Todra Gorges.
The Todra River has carved out a deep canyon with towering red cliffs, making it a paradise for rock climbers and nature lovers. You’ll have free time to walk through the gorge, take photos, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, we continue to Dades Valley, famous for its monkey fingers rock formations and breathtaking mountain scenery. We stop at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Dades Valley, then check into a hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 4: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Skoura Palm Groves – Ouarzazate
Day 4: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Skoura Palm Groves – Ouarzazate
After breakfast, we drive towards Kalaa Magouna, home to Morocco’s famous Rose Valley. Every year in May, the town hosts the Rose Festival, where locals celebrate the harvest with music, dance, and a market selling rose-based products such as perfumes, oils, and cosmetics.
We then continue through the Skoura palm groves, a lush oasis filled with ancient kasbahs. One of the highlights is a visit to the Kasbah Amridil, a well-preserved fortress offering a glimpse into traditional Berber architecture.
Our journey then takes us to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco.” The city is home to famous film studios, where movies such as Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones were filmed. We also visit the historic Kasbah Taourirt before checking into a hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 5 : From Ancient Kasbahs to the Red City: Ait Ben Haddou, Telouet & the High Atlas
Day 5 : From Ancient Kasbahs to the Red City: Ait Ben Haddou, Telouet & the High Atlas
The final day of our tour starts with a visit to Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic kasbahs. This ancient village, with its earthen clay buildings, has been featured in many films and TV series. You’ll have time to explore the narrow streets, climb to the top for panoramic views, and learn about its rich history.
Next, we drive through the Tizi n’Tichka pass, winding through the High Atlas Mountains. Along the way, we stop for lunch and take in breathtaking views of Berber villages, lush valleys, and rugged peaks.
By late afternoon, we arrive in Marrakech, where we drop you off at your accommodation or the airport. This marks the end of your 5-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Morocco’s landscapes, culture, and warm hospitality.
INCLUDED/excluded
Included :
✅ Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech.
✅ Private transportation in a modern, air-conditioned 4×4 or minibus.
✅ English-speaking driver/guide (other languages available upon request).
✅ Overnight stay in a luxury desert camp (with the option to upgrade).
✅ Meals: dinner and breakfast.
✅ Camel trekking experience through Erg Chebbi dunes.
✅ Sandboarding (optional and subject to availability).
Excluded :
❌ Lunches and beverages.
❌ Tips for guides or drivers (optional).
❌ Personal expenses or additional activities.
Book Your Adventure Today
Book now and experience the best multi-day excursion across Morocco’s diverse landscapes