6 DAY DESERT TOUR FROM RABAT TO MARRAKECH VIA MERZOUGA

• Exploration of Rabat’s historical landmarks and coastal charm 
• Visit to the imperial city of Fes and its ancient medina 
• Scenic drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains and cedar forests 
• Encounter with Barbary macaques in Azrou forest 
• Crossing the magnificent Ziz Valley oasis 
• Camel trekking experience across Erg Chebbi dunes 
• Sunset and sunrise in the Sahara Desert 
• Overnight stay in a traditional or luxury desert camp 
• Cultural visit to nomadic families and desert communities 
• Walk through the impressive Todra Gorge canyon 
• Discovery of the Dades Valley and its unique rock formations 
• Visit to Ait Ben Haddou UNESCO World Heritage Site 
• Crossing the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass 
• Arrival and exploration of Marrakech 

Day 1: Rabat – Meknes – Volubilis – Fes

Your journey begins in Rabat, where you are picked up and introduced to Morocco’s historical richness. Before leaving the city, you may explore key landmarks such as the Hassan Tower and the Kasbah of the Udayas.

The route then leads toward Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, where monumental gates and historical architecture reflect its royal past. A short drive further brings you to Volubilis, a remarkably preserved Roman archaeological site, where mosaics and ruins reveal Morocco’s ancient connections to the Roman Empire.

By late afternoon, you arrive in Fes, where you settle into a traditional riad.

Overnight in Fes.

Day 2: Guided Tour of Fes

This day is dedicated to exploring Fes, widely regarded as Morocco’s cultural and intellectual capital.

Accompanied by a local guide, you will enter the historic medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within its labyrinth of narrow streets, you will discover traditional souks, artisan workshops, and historical monuments.

Key highlights include the Bou Inania Madrasa, the famous leather tanneries, and Al-Qarawiyyin University, one of the oldest educational institutions in the world. The day provides a deep immersion into Moroccan heritage, craftsmanship, and daily life.

Overnight in Fes.

Day 3: Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Ziz Valley – Merzouga

After breakfast, you depart Fes and travel south toward the Sahara Desert.

The journey passes through Ifrane, known for its alpine-style architecture, followed by the cedar forests of Azrou, where Barbary macaques roam freely. Continuing through the Middle Atlas Mountains, you reach Midelt before descending toward the desert.

The route then crosses the breathtaking Ziz Valley, where thousands of palm trees create a striking contrast against the surrounding rocky landscape.

By late afternoon, you arrive in Merzouga, where the dunes of Erg Chebbi dominate the horizon. After a short rest, you prepare for a camel trek across the golden sands.

As the sun sets, you reach your desert camp, where you are welcomed with traditional mint tea and a Moroccan dinner. The evening continues with music and storytelling under a sky filled with stars.

Overnight in a desert camp.

Day 4: Merzouga – Desert Exploration – Nomads – Hotel Stay

Wake early to witness sunrise over the dunes, a calm and unforgettable moment.

After breakfast, the day is dedicated to exploring the Merzouga region by 4×4. You will visit nomadic families living in traditional tents and learn about their daily life in the desert environment.

A visit to Khamlia village introduces you to Gnawa music, a spiritual and rhythmic tradition rooted in African heritage. The excursion may also include fossil sites or hidden oases.

In the afternoon, return to your hotel near the dunes for relaxation and dinner.

Overnight in Merzouga.

Day 5: Merzouga – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley – Ouarzazate

After breakfast, you leave the desert and travel toward the High Atlas region.

The first major stop is Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon with towering limestone cliffs. You will have time to walk along the river and appreciate the natural beauty of the site.

The journey continues through the Dades Valley, famous for its winding roads and unusual rock formations. Passing through traditional villages and kasbahs, you follow part of the historic caravan route known as the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs.”

By evening, you arrive in Ouarzazate, a city known for its cinematic heritage and desert architecture.

Overnight in Ouarzazate.

Day 6: Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas – Marrakech

After breakfast, you visit Ait Ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s most iconic ksars and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its earthen buildings and strategic location along ancient trade routes make it one of the most remarkable examples of traditional Moroccan architecture.

The journey then continues across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Along the way, you enjoy panoramic views of valleys, mountain villages, and terraced landscapes.

By late afternoon, you arrive in Marrakech, where your tour concludes with a drop-off at your accommodation.