5-Day Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour

• Travel through the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains toward the Sahara Desert.
  
• Ride a camel across the Erg Chebbi dunes while watching the sunset.
  
• Spend a night in a traditional desert camp under a star-filled sky.
  
• Explore Todra Gorges and Dades Valley, renowned for dramatic landscapes.
  
• Visit the fragrant Valley of Roses and the oasis town of Skoura.
  
• Discover the historic Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  
• Explore Ouarzazate’s cinematic studios and surrounding desert scenery.
  
• Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka pass.
  

Experience the vibrant city of Marrakech, including Jamaa el Fna, Majorelle Garden, and Koutoubia Mosque.

Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Midelt – Errachidia – Erfoud – Merzouga Desert

The adventure begins early in the morning, leaving the ancient city of Fes behind as you head toward the Middle Atlas Mountains. Your first stop is Ifrane, a picturesque town renowned for its tidy streets, alpine-style architecture, and serene atmosphere. Often called “the Switzerland of Morocco,” Ifrane is famous for its beautiful homes and sprawling gardens, as well as its large university attracting international students. A stroll through the town reveals charming fountains, manicured gardens, and the iconic stone lion monument.

Next, the journey continues to the cedar forest near Azrou, where Barbary macaques roam freely among towering trees. Take some time to walk amidst the forest, observing the monkeys and enjoying the fresh mountain air. Afterwards, the road leads to Midelt, a town famous for its apple orchards and agricultural heritage. Here, a stop for lunch offers a taste of local Moroccan dishes before continuing the journey south.

As the afternoon unfolds, the route passes through the scenic Ziz Valley, with its palm-lined oases and panoramic viewpoints perfect for photos. The drive continues through Errachidia and finally reaches Erfoud, the gateway to the Sahara. Upon arrival at Merzouga, camels await to carry you into the heart of the dunes. The desert comes alive at sunset as the golden sands glow in warm hues. At the camp, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner, listen to Berber music by the fire, and sleep beneath a canopy of stars in a comfortable tent.

Day 2: Sahara Desert – Tinghir – Boumalne Dades

After a peaceful desert sunrise, the day begins with further exploration of the Sahara. Visit Khamlia village, known for its Gnawa music traditions, and enjoy tea with local nomadic families. Wander among ancient rock engravings and take in the vast, otherworldly landscapes surrounding the dunes. Fossil hunting in the area is an added highlight for curious travelers interested in the region’s prehistoric past.

In the afternoon, the journey continues toward Tinghir, a charming town nestled at the edge of the High Atlas Mountains. Famous for its extensive palm groves and the dramatic Todra Gorges, Tinghir sits beneath cliffs that rise hundreds of meters above the valley floor. Explore the gorges, take photos of the striking rock formations, and marvel at the scale and beauty of this natural wonder.

Later, the drive moves through winding roads toward Boumalne Dades. This region, known for its Dades Valley, offers incredible views of rugged cliffs, lush palm groves, and traditional Berber villages. Spend the evening immersed in the tranquil atmosphere of the valley, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Day 3: Boumalne Dades – Valley of Roses – Ouarzazate

Leaving Boumalne Dades, the journey winds through the fragrant Valley of Roses, where countless rose bushes fill the air with their sweet scent. Depending on the season, you may witness the traditional rose harvesting or simply enjoy the lush landscapes. Continuing westward, the route leads to Ouarzazate, a city known as the “Gateway to the Sahara” and a hub for Morocco’s film industry.

In Ouarzazate, explore its renowned film studios, where many international productions have been shot, from epic historical dramas to adventure films. A stop for lunch allows travelers to sample local cuisine before taking time in the afternoon to stroll through the city, discovering its kasbahs, vibrant souks, and quiet streets. The evening is spent relaxing and enjoying the calm desert atmosphere.

Day 4: Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas – Marrakech

Departing Ouarzazate, the route passes through traditional Berber villages en route to the historic Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a remarkable example of earthen architecture, with a complex of fortified buildings that have stood for centuries. Walking through its narrow alleys and exploring its ancient structures gives a sense of Morocco’s rich history and the life of its former inhabitants.

After a lunch break, the journey continues through the High Atlas Mountains. The Tizi n’Tichka pass provides dramatic viewpoints of rugged peaks, valleys, and terraced villages. The landscape gradually changes from arid plains to alpine scenery, with fertile river valleys and remote Berber villages appearing along the way. Arriving in Marrakech in the late afternoon, the evening is free to relax and explore the city at your own pace.

Day 5: Marrakech Sightseeing

The final day is dedicated to discovering the vibrant city of Marrakech. Start with a visit to the bustling Jamaa el Fna square, where snake charmers, street performers, and market stalls create a lively atmosphere. Explore the serene Majorelle Garden, with its exotic plants and cobalt-blue accents, followed by a visit to the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, an architectural masterpiece and city landmark.

Spend time wandering the medina’s labyrinthine streets, browsing souks filled with spices, textiles, and traditional crafts. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch before returning to your hotel, bringing this remarkable 5-day journey to a close with memories of desert landscapes, majestic mountains, historic kasbahs, and the vibrant culture of Marrakech.