Overview:

Embark on this captivating 8-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech, exploring the diverse beauty of Morocco. The journey begins in the ancient city of Fes, renowned for its rich history, intricate architecture, and charming streets. Traverse the Middle Atlas Mountains, encounter the Sahara Desert with its mesmerizing sand dunes, and experience unforgettable nights under the stars in a Berber camp. Along the way, visit vibrant valleys, towering gorges, and the historic Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour concludes in Marrakech, where you’ll discover its bustling souks and vibrant landmarks, with a relaxing day trip to the coastal town of Essaouira.

Tour Info:

• Duration: 8 Days & 7 Nights
• Departure: 8:00 AM
• Starting Location: Fes
• Ending Location: Marrakech

Highlights:

• Airport pickup in Fes and transfer to your hotel/riad.
• Guided exploration of Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains and Tizi N’Tichka Pass.
• Visit the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO site.
• Explore the Todra Gorges and Dades Valley.
• Camel ride in Erg Chebbi to witness a stunning desert sunset.
• Spend two nights in the Sahara Desert, including a traditional Berber camp.
• Discover the Ziz Valley, Rose Valley, and Skoura.
• Visit Essaouira Beach, a charming coastal town.

Tour Plan:

Day 1: Fes – Arrival & Transfer
Arrive at Fes Sais Airport, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel/riad in the heart of the Medina. Depending on your arrival time, you can take a brief walk to explore the charming streets of Fes. Dinner and overnight at the riad.

Day 2: Fes – Guided City Tour
Dedicate the day to exploring the intellectual and cultural capital of Morocco. Visit notable landmarks like the Medersas (Bou Inania, Attarine), Karaouine Mosque (the world’s first university), and the vibrant souks of Fes el-Jedid. Marvel at the intricate Moroccan architecture and historical treasures. Overnight at the riad.

Day 3: Fes – Midelt – Azrou – Ziz Valley – Merzouga
Depart Fes and journey through the scenic Middle Atlas, stopping in Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland.” Visit the cedar forests of Azrou, home to wild Barbary monkeys. Enjoy lunch in the Berber village of Zaida before continuing through the Ziz Valley to reach Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. In the evening, embark on a camel trek to a desert camp nestled among the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Dinner and overnight under the starry desert sky.

Day 4: Merzouga – Erg Chebbi Dunes Tour (4×4 Adventure)
Explore the desert landscape in a 4×4 vehicle, visiting Dayet Srij Lake, home to flamingos, and the village of Khamlia, where you’ll experience traditional Gnawa music. Meet local nomadic families and enjoy their hospitality. Return to Merzouga for another camel trek, culminating in a breathtaking sunset and an evening at a Berber desert camp.

Day 5: Merzouga – Rissani – Todra Gorges – Dades Valley
Watch the sunrise over the dunes before returning to Merzouga. Visit Rissani, home to the region’s largest market, and explore the fossil workshops in Erfoud. Continue to the stunning Todra Gorges, a popular destination for climbers, and take a walk along its riverbed. End the day in the Dades Valley, where you’ll spend the night in a charming hotel or kasbah.

Day 6: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Skoura – Ouarzazate – Marrakech
Travel through the scenic Dades Valley and Rose Valley, famous for its fragrant rose fields and rosewater production. Stop in Skoura before reaching Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Morocco,” where you’ll visit the Taourirt Kasbah. Proceed to the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO site and filming location for movies like Gladiator and The Mummy. After lunch, cross the Tizi N’Tichka Pass and arrive in Marrakech by evening. Overnight at the hotel or riad.

Day 7: Marrakech – Essaouira – Back to Marrakech
Take a day trip to the coastal town of Essaouira, a former Portuguese port known for its relaxed atmosphere, charming medina, and seafood delicacies. Stroll through its streets lined with craft shops and spice vendors, and explore its historic fortifications. Return to Marrakech for an overnight stay.

Day 8: Marrakech – Airport Transfer
After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Marrakech before being transferred to the Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure.

Included:

• Pick-up from your hotel, riad, or airport.
• Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation with a driver.
• 5 nights’ accommodation in a riad/kasbah (half board).
• 2 nights in a nomadic desert camp (half board).
• Camel ride in the Sahara Desert.
• Fuel.

Excluded:

• Lunches.
• Drinks.
• Entrance fees to monuments.