5 Days from Fes to Marrakech Morocco Desert Tour

Day 1: Fes – Middle Atlas Mountains – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert

Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Fes, traveling through the lush Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop in Ifrane, known as “Little Switzerland” for its alpine charm, then continue to Azrou, famous for its cedar forests and wild Barbary macaques.

Descending into the Ziz Valley, you’ll pass lush palm groves and traditional Berber villages, providing the perfect opportunity to capture stunning photographs.

Arrive at Merzouga, the gateway to the vast Erg Chebbi dunes. In the late afternoon, embark on a classic camel trek across the towering sand dunes during the golden desert sunset.

Spend your first night at a traditional luxury desert camp, where you’ll enjoy Berber hospitality, a delicious Moroccan dinner, and the magic of desert music under the stars.

Day 2: Full Day Exploration of Merzouga Desert

Wake early to witness the unforgettable sunrise over the Sahara, one of Morocco’s most iconic experiences.

Spend a full day exploring the endless desert landscapes around Merzouga. Activities include:

• Visiting the Gnawa village of Khamlia, renowned for its spiritual music and dance

• Exploring desert oases and ancient fossil sites

• Optional quad biking or sandboarding on the dunes

• Relaxing at natural springs or traditional Berber settlements

Return to your desert camp in the evening for another peaceful night surrounded by the tranquility of the Sahara.

Day 3: Merzouga – Rissani – Todgha Gorges – Dades Valley

After breakfast, depart Merzouga and visit Rissani, a historic town once the capital of the Alaouite dynasty and famous for its lively souk.

Drive to the stunning Todgha Gorges, where massive cliffs rise dramatically on either side of a narrow river valley. Take a walk or hike through this impressive natural canyon.

Continue to the Dades Valley, known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” where you will spend the night in a charming guesthouse nestled among lush palm groves and rocky landscapes.

Day 4: Dades Valley – Roses Valley – Ouarzazate – Aït Benhaddou

Today’s journey takes you through the scenic Roses Valley, famous for its fragrant rose fields (best visited in spring).

Arrive in Ouarzazate, Morocco’s film capital, and tour the Taourirt Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing impressive Moroccan earthen architecture.

Visit the legendary Aït Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO-listed ancient fortified village and one of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks, featured in numerous films and TV series.

Overnight accommodation will be in Ouarzazate or nearby, offering comfort and a chance to unwind after a day of exploration.

Day 5: Ouarzazate – High Atlas Mountains – Tizi n’Tichka Pass – Marrakech

On the final day, depart Ouarzazate and cross the towering High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters). The mountain route offers breathtaking panoramic views and encounters with traditional Berber villages.

Arrive in Marrakech by afternoon or evening, concluding your incredible journey from Fes to Marrakech through the heart of Morocco’s desert and mountain landscapes.

Tour Highlights

• Two nights in a luxury desert camp in Merzouga for an authentic Saharan experience

• Camel trekking across the towering Erg Chebbi dunes

• Exploration of Khamlia village and Gnawa music culture

• Visit to historic Rissani and vibrant Todgha Gorges

• Overnight in the breathtaking Dades Valley

• Discover the film studios and kasbahs of Ouarzazate and the iconic Aït Benhaddou

• Scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass

• Arrival and drop-off in bustling Marrakech

What’s Included

• Private, air-conditioned transportation with experienced driver-guide

• Accommodation in desert camp, guesthouses, and hotels

• Camel trekking experience in Merzouga

• Daily breakfast and most dinners

• Entrance fees to major attractions

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

This 5 Days from Fes to Marrakech Morocco Desert Tour with Two Nights in Merzouga offers a rich and balanced exploration of Morocco’s diverse environments. From vibrant cities and ancient kasbahs to the endless Sahara dunes, this itinerary promises a deeply memorable and transformative Moroccan adventure.