Duration : 6 Days
Overview:
This 6-day desert trip from Marrakech to Fes is designed for travelers who want to experience Morocco at a relaxed pace, combining imperial cities, mountain scenery, ancient kasbahs, and the magic of the Sahara Desert. Beginning with time to settle into Marrakech, the route continues across the High Atlas Mountains, through historic caravan towns, dramatic gorges, and golden desert dunes before ending in the cultural capital of Fes.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy a camel trek in the Sahara, explore UNESCO-listed sites, discover lush valleys and cedar forests, and finish with a guided exploration of Fes. This itinerary offers a perfect balance between discovery, comfort, and authentic local experiences.
Tour Highlights:
- Arrival and relaxed start in Marrakech
- Optional guided visit of Marrakech’s historic medina
- Scenic drive through the High Atlas Mountains and Tizi n’Tichka Pass
- Explore the UNESCO-listed ksar of Aït Ben Haddou
- Visit Ouarzazate and travel through the Valley of Roses
- Walk through the impressive Todra Gorge
- Camel trek across the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Overnight desert camping with sunset and traditional music
- Trip through the Ziz Valley and the Middle Atlas Mountains
- See Barbary macaques in the cedar forests near Azrou
- Guided exploration of the ancient medina of Fes
- Departure from Fes with airport transfer
Important Details:
- Destination : Tour From Marrakech to Fes via Merzouga
- Duration : 6 days tour.
- Pickup & Return time : Pickup around 7 am on the first day, and return at 10 pm.
- Visited Cities : 3 big Imperial cities : Marrakech, Ouerzazat and Merzouga, 1800km, and a fun 25 hours ride in total.
What’s included in Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga :
- Transportation: Comfortable travel with an English/French-speaking driver through the stunning High Atlas Mountains.
- Luxury Camp Stay: Spend a magical night in a luxury desert camp with a bonfire, traditional music, and stargazing under the desert sky.
- Camel Ride & 4×4 Excursion: Experience the iconic camel trek at sunset and an adventurous 4×4 excursion through the Merzouga dunes.
- Delicious Meals: Enjoy breakfasts and dinners with authentic Moroccan flavors.
- Unforgettable Visits: Explore the UNESCO-listed Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, marvel at the dramatic Todra Gorges, and discover Ouarzazate, known as Morocco’s “Hollywood.”
Detailed Itinerary :
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech – Optional Medina Tour
Upon arrival in Marrakech, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax after your journey.
If you feel comfortable and wish to begin exploring right away, an optional guided walk through the historic medina can be arranged. This introduction allows you to experience the lively souks, hidden alleyways, and iconic squares at an easy pace. Overnight stay in Marrakech.
Day 2: Marrakech – Aït Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
After breakfast, depart Marrakech and travel east across the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka Pass. Stops are made along the way to enjoy panoramic views and take photos of the dramatic landscapes.
Arrive at the fortified village of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you have time to explore its earthen architecture and historic pathways. Continue to Ouarzazate for lunch (not included), then drive through the Skoura oasis and the Valley of Roses before reaching the Dades Valley in the evening. Dinner and overnight are arranged locally.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga Desert
Following breakfast, continue through the scenic Dades Valley with stops at impressive viewpoints. Travel onward to Todra Gorge, known for its towering canyon walls and refreshing river, ideal for a short walk.
After lunch en route, the trip continues through desert villages and palm oases toward Merzouga. In the late afternoon, meet your camels and trek into the Erg Chebbi dunes, stopping to admire the sunset. Upon arrival at the desert camp, enjoy dinner, traditional Berber music, and an unforgettable night under the stars. A 4×4 transfer is available if preferred.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani – Ziz Valley – Azrou – Fes
Wake early to witness sunrise over the dunes, followed by breakfast in the desert. Return to Merzouga by camel or 4×4 and continue north.
Visit Rissani, an important former trading center, then drive along the lush Ziz Valley, lined with vast palm groves. As you enter the Middle Atlas Mountains, stop near Azrou to explore cedar forests and observe Barbary macaques in their natural habitat.
Arrive in Fes in the late afternoon or early evening. Dinner and overnight are arranged locally.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: Guided Exploration of Fes
Today is dedicated to discovering Fes, Morocco’s oldest imperial city and spiritual capital. With a local guide, explore the UNESCO-listed medina, known for its labyrinth of narrow streets, vibrant souks, and centuries-old craftsmanship.
You will visit key historical and cultural landmarks, artisan quarters, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the city. The afternoon is free for further exploration or relaxation. Dinner and overnight in Fes.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6: Fes – Airport Transfer
After breakfast, enjoy free time depending on your flight schedule. At the appropriate time, transfer to Fes airport, marking the end of your 6-day desert trip through Morocco’s most iconic regions.
Meals: Breakfast
Tripadvisor reviews
Circuit passionnant dans le sud marocain - Merci à notre guide Rachid, passionnant dans ses explications, prévenant tout au long de la semaine de voyage qui nous a conduit de Eassaouira aux dunes de Merzouga, conducteur prudent,... read more
pierrelK5443QBNovember 5, 2022
Balade dans le désert - Super semaine en compagnie de notre adorable chauffeur-guide Rachid qui a su nous concocter un circuit à la hauteur de nos attentes, qui a été à l'écoute de chacun d'entre... read more
mariejos_p2014November 5, 2022
A recommander ! - Rachid est réactif aux messages. Très bon contact. Il est ponctuel et efficace.
Le trajet s’est très bien passé.
Nous ferons appel à lui lors d’un prochain déplacement et le... read more
Béatrice EApril 15, 2022
Voyage en dehors du temps - De retour de ce périple dans l'Atlas et le desert
Nous sommes enchantés et Merci à Rachid notre guide et chaufeur qui nous a fait vivre l'histoire de son... read more
larrieuj2022November 6, 2022