4 Days tour from Marrakech to Fes via Desert

Day 1: Marrakech to Dades Valley – Through the High Atlas and Aït Benhaddou

Crossing the High Atlas Mountains

The journey begins with an early pick-up from your accommodation in Marrakech. We travel through the spectacular High Atlas Mountains, climbing the winding roads of the Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 2,260 meters. Along the way, stop at scenic viewpoints and traditional Berber villages that cling to the mountainside.

Aït Benhaddou – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Our first major stop is the Ksar of Aït Benhaddou, a fortified village made of clay and straw. With its maze of alleys and towers, this ancient settlement is one of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks and a favorite filming location for Hollywood blockbusters like Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia.

Ouarzazate and Skoura Oasis

Next, we head to Ouarzazate, known as the Gateway to the Desert. Visit the Taourirt Kasbah and take in the cinematic history at Atlas Studios. Continue through the Skoura Oasis, where palm groves and crumbling kasbahs define the landscape.

Valley of Roses and Dades Gorges

As we pass through the Valley of Roses, known for its fragrant blooms and rosewater cooperatives, we reach the dramatic Dades Gorges. Dinner and overnight in a traditional guesthouse overlooking the spectacular rock formations of the Dades Valley.

Day 2: Dades Valley to Merzouga – Gateway to the Sahara

Todgha Gorge – Nature’s Masterpiece

After breakfast, we drive toward the breathtaking Todgha Gorge, where massive cliffs tower over a crystal-clear river. Take time to walk through the gorge and admire the natural beauty carved by millennia of erosion.

Saharan Towns and Fossil Capital

Continue through Berber towns such as Tinjdad, Jorf, and Erfoud. The latter is famous for fossil products and desert agriculture. From here, the landscape transforms into arid plains and rolling sand dunes.

Merzouga and Camel Trekking Adventure

Arrive in Merzouga, where your camel caravan awaits. Begin your camel trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, witnessing the sunset paint the sands in hues of gold and orange. After an hour of gentle trekking, reach your desert camp, where Berber hosts greet you with mint tea.

Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars, followed by Berber music and drumming around the campfire. Sleep under the vast Saharan sky in a cozy nomadic tent—standard or luxury options are available.

Day 3: Merzouga Exploration – Nomadic Culture and Desert Secrets

Sahara Sunrise and 4×4 Adventure

Rise early for an unforgettable sunrise over the dunes. After breakfast, hop into a 4×4 to explore the fascinating surroundings of Merzouga. Visit nomadic families who live in traditional tents, gaining insight into their humble, resilient lifestyle.

Khamlia Village and Gnawa Music

Stop in the village of Khamlia, known for its unique Gnawa music, rooted in sub-Saharan African traditions. Listen to rhythmic live performances and interact with the welcoming local musicians.

Hassi Labied and Fossil Sites

Explore the Hassi Labied oasis, where desert farming thrives, and visit a local fossil workshop in Erfoud to discover the region’s geological wealth.

Second Night in Desert Camp or Hotel

Spend another night in the desert for a deeper experience—either back at the camp or in a hotel at the dune’s edge, depending on your preference.

Day 4: Merzouga to Fes – Through Ziz Valley, Midelt, and Ifrane

Ziz Valley and Middle Atlas

After breakfast, begin your long but scenic drive to Fes. The route takes you through the lush Ziz Valley, a dramatic ribbon of palm trees and oases nestled between mountain ridges.

Midelt – Apple Capital of Morocco

Stop in Midelt, a quiet town known for apple production and nestled between the Middle and High Atlas. Enjoy a local lunch and a short stroll through its markets or orchards.

Ifrane – The Swiss Town of Morocco

As you approach Fes, pass through Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its Alpine-style architecture, tidy streets, and surrounding cedar forests. Look out for Barbary macaques in the nearby Ifrane National Park.

Arrival in Fes

Arrive in Fes by early evening, where your 4-day Morocco desert adventure comes to an end. Fes, with its rich history and UNESCO-protected medina, awaits your next discovery.

What’s Included in the 4-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour

• Private or shared air-conditioned 4×4 or minivan

• Professional English-speaking driver/guide

• 1 night in Dades Valley guesthouse (dinner & breakfast)

• 2 nights in desert camp or hotel in Merzouga

• Camel trek into the Sahara dunes

• Berber music & cultural experiences

• Visits to Aït Benhaddou, Todgha Gorge, Atlas Mountains, and more

• Hotel pick-up in Marrakech and drop-off in Fes

Why This 4-Day Tour is Perfect

• Balanced pace with time to explore and relax

• Deeper cultural immersion with extra night in the desert

• Combines landscape diversity: mountains, valleys, kasbahs, and dunes

• Great for couples, families, and solo travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience