5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes

Overview

Immerse yourself in the beauty of southern Morocco with this 5-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes. This journey will take you across the dramatic High Atlas Mountains, through ancient kasbahs, Berber villages, lush valleys, and the vast Sahara Desert. You’ll experience camel trekking at sunset, spend the night under starry skies in the Erg Chebbi dunes, and discover the rich culture and history of Morocco’s imperial cities and desert towns.

This tour offers the perfect combination of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments, making it ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Moroccan adventure.

Tour Info

Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Departure: 08:00 AM
Starting Point: Marrakech
Ending Point: Fes

Highlights

Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah.
Visit the stunning Todra Gorges and the lush Dades Valley.
Camel trek in the Sahara Desert and watch the sunset over Erg Chebbi dunes.
Spend a magical night in a desert camp under the stars.
Visit nomadic families and experience traditional Berber life.
Discover the cedar forests of Azrou and see Barbary monkeys.
Tour Fes with a local guide to explore its historic medina, mosques, and artisan workshops.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate
Depart from Marrakech and journey through the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass, stopping for panoramic views and photos. Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a stunning example of Moroccan earthen architecture and a popular filming location. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Ouarzazate, where you can optionally visit Atlas Film Studios. Spend the night in a riad or hotel in Ouarzazate.

Day 2: Ouarzazate – Skoura – Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga
After breakfast, visit the Kasbah Amridil in Skoura, a well-preserved historical site showcasing traditional Berber architecture. Travel through the Valley of Roses and Dades Valley, admiring the stunning landscapes and green oases. Continue to Todra Gorges, where you can walk through its dramatic cliffs. After lunch, drive to Merzouga, where you’ll spend the night in a riad or hotel at the edge of the desert.

Day 3: Merzouga Desert Exploration and Camel Trekking
Begin the day by visiting the village of Khamlia, known for its Gnaoua music and African heritage. Meet nomadic families living in Berber tents and learn about their way of life. Visit Rissani, the historical center of the Alawite dynasty, and explore its bustling souk. After lunch, embark on a camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes. Watch the sunset from the dunes and spend the night in a desert camp, enjoying traditional Berber music and dinner under the stars.

Day 4: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Azrou – Ifrane – Fes
Rise early to witness the magical sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast. Depart the desert and travel through the Ziz Valley, stopping for panoramic views of its lush palm groves. Continue to Midelt for lunch before heading to the cedar forests of Azrou, where you can spot Barbary monkeys. Stop in Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its European-style architecture, and see the famous Atlas Lion statue. Arrive in Fes in the evening and check into your accommodation.

Day 5: Fes Guided City Tour
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Fes, one of Morocco’s oldest imperial cities. Visit its UNESCO-listed medina, the Karaouine Mosque and University, and the Bou Inania and Attarine madrasas. Explore artisan neighborhoods, the Nejjarine Fountain, and the vibrant souks. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore more of Fes, including the Royal Palace and Jewish Quarter. End the day with a restful evening in your riad, marking the conclusion of your 5-day tour.