4 day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour

Overview

This tour will start from your hotel in Marrakech and introduce you to the desert, villages and the mountainous regions of the great Moroccan Sahara. On this tour you will experience high mountain passes where views will be witnessed across several miles, Kasbahs, a camel trek in Merzouga over the Erg Chebbi Dunes. There is nothing more spectacular than an overnight stay in a Bedouin desert camp. This allows you and the shared party you are with a chance to star gaze into the sky, watch the sunset and rise when on a camel ride and see hundreds of Kasbahs. The conclusion of this shared tour will end in the magical city of Fes.

Highlights

Included / Exclude

Itinerary

Day 1 - Marrakech / Atlas Mountains / Ait Ben Haddou / Rose valley / Dades Valley.

Depart from Marrakech and journey across the spectacular High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 m), enjoying breathtaking panoramic views along the way.

Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aït Ben Haddou, where you will enjoy a one-hour guided walking tour through this remarkable fortified village (ksar). Discover its rich history, unique Berber culture, and stunning landscapes. Located on the southern slopes of the High Atlas Mountains in the Ouarzazate Province, Aït Ben Haddou is the most famous ksar in the Ounila Valley and one of Morocco’s finest examples of traditional southern architecture.

Surrounded by defensive walls reinforced with corner towers and an impressive entrance gate, the ksar is home to a fascinating collection of traditional earthen houses, fortified residences, narrow alleys, and communal spaces. Its exceptional preservation and historical significance earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After the visit, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Aït Ben Haddou.

In the afternoon, continue through Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” before driving along the famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs to reach the beautiful Dades Valley. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and spend a relaxing night surrounded by the valley’s spectacular rock formations and lush oasis landscapes.

Day 2 - Dades Valley / Todgha Gorge / Merzouga Erg Chebbi.

After a restful night’s sleep, enjoy a delicious breakfast while breathing in the fresh mountain air of the beautiful Dades Valley.

Begin the day with a visit to the spectacular Dades Gorges, then continue your journey through the town of Boumalne Dades toward Todra Gorge, located near the town of Tinghir. Rising up to 300 meters high, Todra Gorge is one of the world’s most impressive canyons. Nestled on the eastern side of the High Atlas Mountains, its towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear river make it one of Morocco’s most breathtaking natural attractions.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant along the way before continuing your journey toward the Sahara Desert.

Before arriving in Merzouga, stop at a traditional Berber shop where you can try on authentic desert clothing for memorable photos. Wearing the traditional outfit is completely optional, and photos taken in the clothing are free of charge. Headscarves are also available to wear during your camel trekking experience.

Arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the magnificent Erg Chebbi dunes. Meet your camel caravan and ride across the golden sand dunes as the sun begins to set, creating unforgettable views of the Sahara.

Spend the night in a comfortable desert camp, where you will enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner followed by Berber music, drumming around the campfire, dancing under the stars, and an unforgettable night in the heart of the desert.

Important Note: If you would like to enjoy wine during your stay at the desert camp, please purchase it before arriving in Merzouga, as alcoholic beverages are not available in the desert camps.

Day 3 - Merzouga Day Trip

Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. Before breakfast, you may enjoy sandboarding on the dunes surrounding the camp. After breakfast, collect your luggage and meet your driver, who will be waiting to pick you up in the desert.

Begin your desert discovery tour with a visit to local Berber nomad families living in traditional black tents. Experience their warm hospitality as you share a glass of freshly brewed Moroccan tea while learning about their unique way of life.

Continue your journey to the historic M’Fis (Mascara) Mine, an abandoned mining site located in the heart of the desert that offers fascinating insights into the region’s history.

Next, visit the village of Khamlia, renowned for its rich Gnawa heritage. Enjoy a live performance of authentic Gnawa music, a unique cultural tradition with deep African roots.

Afterwards, savor a delicious traditional Berber pizza for lunch before exploring the desert oasis and its lush palm groves, where local families cultivate their farms using ancient irrigation systems.

Arrive at your hotel in Merzouga at approximately 3:00 PM, where you can relax and enjoy the swimming pool or unwind at your leisure.

Optional Activity: If you would like to experience an ATV (quad bike) ride at sunset, your driver will be happy to help arrange this activity for an additional charge.

Day 4 - Merzouga/ Ziz Valley / Midelt / Ifrane / Fez

After breakfast, begin your final day of the tour with a scenic drive toward Fes.

Travel through the spectacular Ziz Valley, one of Morocco’s largest palm groves, where you will stop at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the oasis. This is a great opportunity to take photos, enjoy a coffee, and use the restroom facilities.

Continue your journey through the Zaabel Tunnel and the town of Midelt, often referred to as the “Apple Capital of Morocco.” Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing north.

In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Cedar Forest near Azrou, home to the famous Barbary macaques. Here, you will have the chance to observe these playful monkeys in their natural habitat.

Before arriving in Fes, make one final stop in Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its clean streets, alpine-style architecture, and pleasant climate. Visit the city’s iconic Stone Lion, a historic sculpture believed to have been carved by a German prisoner during the French Protectorate.

After the visit, continue to Fes, where your driver will drop you off as close as possible to your riad or hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable journey.

We sincerely hope you have enjoyed your tour with us and that you leave Morocco with wonderful memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Thank you for choosing our services. We wish you a pleasant stay in Morocco, safe travels, and hope to welcome you again in the future. If you need any assistance or have any questions during your stay, please feel free to contact us—we are always happy to help.

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