5 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech
Experience the best of Morocco on a 5 Days Desert Tour From Fes To Marrakech. Starting in Fes, we explore Ifrane, Morocco’s Switzerland, and the cedar forest.
- 5 days
- Private driver
- Hotel pick-up
- Customizable
About this tour
Experience the best of Morocco on a 5 Days Desert Tour From Fes To Marrakech. Starting in Fes, we explore Ifrane, Morocco’s Switzerland, and the cedar forest.
After a lunch stop in Midelt, we follow the breathtaking Ziz River and reach the Sahara Desert in Merzouga. Enjoy camel rides, a night in a luxury desert camp, and mesmerizing Sahara sunsets and sunrises.
Explore Rissani’s traditional market, Erfoud’s fossils, Todra and Dades gorges, and iconic Kasbahs like Ait Ben Haddou and Amridil. Cross the High Atlas mountains via Tizi-n-Tichka Pass, concluding your adventure in vibrant Marrakech.
Highlights
- Drive through the Middle Atlas Mountains
- Spot playful Barbary apes in ancient cedar forests.
- Camel trek through golden dunes at sunset
- Meet a nomadic family in the desert and learn about their hardy way of life.
- An overnights in desert camp
- Witness the towering grandeur of Todra Gorges.
- Relax amidst the scenic Dades Gorges and lush palm groves
- Unwind in the verdant Skoura Oasis dotted with historic kasbahs.
- Step back in time at the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou kasbah
Route map
Day-by-day program
Every tour is private and can be adapted to your dates, pace and interests. Contact us to build your own version.
Fes – Ifrane – Azrou – Middle Atlas Mountains – Sahara Desert
In Moring our driver will pack you up from your accommodation in Fes and drive to Merzouga desert. On our way, we will have stop in Ifrane, often referred to as Morocco’s Switzerland, where you can take magnificent images and observe the town’s splendor. Then we go to Azrou’s cedar grove, which is home to some playful monkeys.
After a long drive across the middle Atlas Mountains, we will stop for lunch in Midelt. Afterward, we cross the TIZI N TALGHAMT pass, which provides amazing views of the Ziz gorges and the lovely Ziz Valley.
Continuing our journey to Erg Chebbi Dunes by passing through Aoufous and Erfoud, which are known for their fossils and dates, You will be able to tour a fossil craft studio and learn about this unique art form.
Finally, we arrive at Erg Chebbi’s Merzouga Dunes, where you’ll check into your hotel where a magical dinner awaits, accompanied by traditional Berber music. The hotel provides a unique and comfortable accommodation, allowing you to fully embrace the serene beauty of the desert night.
An Explorative Journey of the Desert – Visit Nomads – Camel Trekking – Overnight Desert Camp.
Following a delicious breakfast, we drive to Khamlia village, where you will be treated to the enthralling rhythms of real Gnawa music.
Then we’ll go off the usual route, exploring the dunes on an unpaved road and stopping for tea with nomads in traditional Berber tents. This immersive experience gives you a glimpse into a different way of life, and you’ll even get to eat Berber pizza for lunch.
In the late afternoon, after relaxing at the hotel, you’ll prepare for an incredible camel ride into the heart of the dunes to view the breathtaking sunset.
When you arrive at the camp, you’ll be greeted with mint tea before settling into your comfy tents with ensuite bathroom and showers as the Sahara presents its stunning evening hues. Dinner is ready, and as you eat, a musical performance by the group around the fire adds to the allure of the starry Sahara night.
Merzouga – Rissani – Arfoud – Todgha Gorges – Dads Valley
Today make sure to wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise, as the dunes come alive with a mesmerizing display of colors and shadows, so you will not miss an awe-inspiring spectacle. After breakfast Start you will ride your camel back to the Merzouga and meet your driver and head to Dades gorges.
Along the way, we will stop in Rissani’s bustling traditional market. If you visit on a market day—Sundays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays—you’ll be greeted to a vibrant display of colors, fragrances, and sounds as you stroll through its bustling streets.
Afterward, we drive to Arfoud, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit a workshop showcasing fossilized marble. The Journey continues through the picturesque palm groves of Touroug and Tinjdad, where we will stop for lunch.
Next, we will drive to Todgha gorges. A River includes stunning high red cliff-sided canyons that make perfect rock climbing terrain. Explore the gorges at your leisure, wander around the stunning environment, and wonder at the natural beauty that surrounds you.
We continue the trip to the Dades Valley, passing via Boumalne Dades. Make stops along the way to see the famous “monkey fingers” rock formations and a charming site atop a mountain with stunning views of the Dades Valley. Finally, finish the day with dinner and a stay at a hotel.
Dades Valley – Roses Valley – Palm Groves of Skoura – Ouarzazate
After breakfast, we travel to Kalaa Magouna to explore the rose valley. If you visit in May, you can also attend the annual Rose Festival, where locals display rose products such as perfume, rose water, oil and decorations.
After lunch, we drive through Skoura’s palm groves, stopping to see the Amridil Kasbah before arriving in Ouarzazate. Visit movie studios, the Taourirt Kasbah, and stay overnight at a hotel.
Ouarzazate - Ait Ben Haddou - High Atlas Mountains - Marrakech
Today we will drive to the famous Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a fortified town recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Location.
This notable Kasbah has been filmed in various movies and TV series, such as Combatant, Alexander, The Mummy, and Diversion of Positions of authority.
After investigating this famous kasbah, we continue to Marrakech, passing through the Tizi-N-Tichka pass and the High Atlas Mountains.
We’ll make stops for lunch and photo opportunities at beautiful spots along the way. The day concludes with an overnight in a Riad in Marrakech.
What's included
Included
- Private A/C Vans or 4×4 vehicles
- Fuel
- English speaking driver.
- Pick up & Drop off at your accommodation
- Typical hotels, Kasbahs, Riads
- Camel ride Per each
- Overnight in a traditional nomad tent
- All breakfasts
Not included
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Entrance fees
- Tipping Driver and Guides
Important! This is a proposed tour schedule; if it doesn’t suit you, please contact us. A customized itinerary will be created based on your interests and stay duration. We provide personalized Morocco tours.
As more people join the trip, the price drops. If the payment is fixed, transportation costs will be proportionate to the number of people. Cost depends on accommodation quality. Please contact us for a quotation.
What our travelers say
More Reviews on TripAdvisor
Frequently asked questions
1. What language is spoken in Morocco?
Arabic is the official language, with a Moroccan dialect called Darjia widely spoken. French is also common due to historical ties, and some Spanish is heard in certain areas.
2. Is Morocco safe for travelers?
Morocco is generally safe and politically stable. Tourists should be mindful of petty theft, scams, and harassment, which are the most common crimes.
3. How should I dress in Morocco?
Dressing conservatively is advised, especially for women. Covering down to wrists and ankles is required when visiting mosques.
4. What is the currency in Morocco?
The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the local currency. It’s recommended to have cash for smaller markets and cabs, as they may not accept credit cards.
5. When is the best time to travel to Morocco?
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are ideal for pleasant weather.
6. What food is common in Morocco?
Traditional dishes include tagine, couscous, and mint tea. Street food and local delicacies offer a taste of Moroccan culture.
7. Is tipping customary in Morocco?
Yes, tipping is customary for services such as dining, guides, and taxis.
8. What are the must-visit places in Morocco?
Marrakech, Fes, Chefchaouen, and the Sahara Desert are among the top destinations.
9. Can I use Euros or US Dollars in Morocco?
While the Dirham is preferred, some places may accept Euros. US Dollars are less commonly accepted and should be exchanged for local currency.
10. Are there any health precautions I should take before traveling to Morocco?
It’s advisable to consult with a travel clinic for recommended vaccinations and to carry any personal medications.
Ready for your 5 Days Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech?
Tell us your dates and travel style and we will tailor this itinerary for you: private driver, hand-picked riads and desert camps, and support from our team before and during your trip.