5 Days from Fes to Marrakech Morocco Desert Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Ziz Valley – Merzouga

Departure from Fes

Your adventure begins early with a private pickup from your accommodation in Fes. Travel south across the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping at:

• Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine architecture and clean streets

• Azrou, famous for its cedar forests and wild Barbary macaques

Ziz Valley Oasis

Continue descending into the fertile Ziz Valley, a lush palm oasis carved by the Ziz River. Stop for breathtaking views and visit traditional Berber villages.

Arrival in Merzouga and Camel Trek

Arrive at Merzouga, gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Experience a classic camel trek at sunset, riding into the vast golden sands to witness a magical desert sunset.

Overnight in Desert Camp

Enjoy a night in a traditional Berber desert camp, complete with authentic cuisine, music, and a star-studded sky.

Day 2: Merzouga – Sahara Desert Exploration

Sunrise over the Dunes

Wake early to witness the stunning sunrise over the Sahara, a truly serene moment.

4×4 Desert Tour

After breakfast, embark on a 4×4 excursion exploring the dunes and surrounding desert plains. Visit:

• Nomadic Berber families and their tents

• The village of Khamlia, known for its Gnaoua music tradition

• Fossil sites and panoramic viewpoints

Optional Activities

Spend your afternoon enjoying optional activities such as:

• Sandboarding

• Quad biking or buggy rides

• Relaxing in your camp or desert lodge

Second Night in Merzouga

Choose to stay another night in the desert camp or a nearby desert hotel, enjoying another evening under the stars.

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

Depart Merzouga

After breakfast, depart the desert and drive westward toward the dramatic landscapes of the Dades Valley.

Visit Rissani Market

Stop in Rissani, a historic town famous for its vibrant souks and as the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty.

Todra Gorges

Explore the towering Todra Gorges, where sheer cliffs rise dramatically above a narrow canyon. Take a leisurely walk amid this natural wonder.

Dades Valley

Travel to the Dades Valley, known for its unique rock formations called the “Monkey Fingers” and ancient kasbahs scattered throughout the palm groves.

Overnight in Dades Valley

Spend the night in a traditional riad or guesthouse with stunning views of the valley.

Day 4: Dades Valley – Ouarzazate – Aït Benhaddou – High Atlas Mountains

Ouarzazate – The Hollywood of Africa

After breakfast, drive to Ouarzazate, Morocco’s film industry hub. Optionally visit Atlas Film Studios or the historic Taourirt Kasbah.

Visit Aït Benhaddou

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aït Benhaddou, an iconic earthen ksar featured in many famous movies.

Cross the High Atlas Mountains

Cross the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters) through the High Atlas Mountains, admiring panoramic mountain views, Berber villages, and terraced fields.

Overnight in Marrakech

Arrive in Marrakech by evening. Check into your hotel or riad and relax after your day’s journey.

Day 5: Marrakech City Tour and Departure

Explore Marrakech

Spend your final day exploring the vibrant city of Marrakech, including:

• The bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

• The ornate Bahia Palace

• The serene Majorelle Garden

• The historic Saadian Tombs

Departure

Depending on your schedule, enjoy last-minute shopping or sightseeing before your private transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for your onward flight.

What’s Included

• Private air-conditioned vehicle and English-speaking driver/guide

• Hotel/riad pickup in Fes and drop-off in Marrakech

• 2 nights accommodation in Merzouga (desert camp or desert lodge)

• 1 night accommodation in Dades Valley guesthouse or riad

• 1 night accommodation in Marrakech

• Camel trekking at sunset and sunrise in Erg Chebbi

• 4×4 desert excursion

• Guided visits to Todra Gorges, Aït Benhaddou, and Marrakech city highlights

• Meals: daily breakfast and 3 dinners including desert camp meals

• Entrance fees to key sites

• All tolls, fuel, and local taxes