5 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech to Fes

Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Dades Valley [324 km]

It all starts with a pick-up from our meeting location in Marrakech on the first day of our 5 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes. As we begin our journey, we’ll cross the Tizi Ntichka pass, a 200-kilometer route with a breathtaking panoramic view from 2260 meters high. We’ll make a brief stop at a cooperative that produces argan oil for cosmetics, where we can rest and learn about the production process. After passing through Telouet and other kasbahs, we’ll arrive at Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned worldwide and a popular destination for visitors and filmmakers. Our next stop is Ouarzazate, often referred to as the Ouallywood of Morocco, where we’ll visit the Atlas Studios. This studio is famous for filming major productions such as Game of Thrones and Prison Break. In Ouarzazate, we’ll have lunch before continuing our journey to the stunning Dades Gorges, where we’ll spend the night.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Valley – Merzouga Desert [249 km]

On the second day of our 5 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes, we will venture into the heart of the desert. Our journey begins with a drive through several picturesque valleys on the way to Todra Gorge, our first stop. Here, we will pause to explore the surroundings and stroll through the impressive Todra Canyons. These 300-meter-high canyons are considered one of Morocco best spots for climbing and photography.

We will then continue through charming Berber settlements, stopping for lunch at Tinghir or Tinjedad. After lunch, we head towards our ultimate destination: the Merzouga Desert. This part of the journey is often regarded as the highlight, with a camel ride across the golden sand dunes marking the start of our desert adventure. Along the way, we will stop to enjoy the stunning scenery and watch the sunset.

Finally, we will arrive at our desert nomadic camp, where a traditional Moroccan dinner will be served to kick off the evening. Our crew will light a fire and perform drum music under the starry sky, creating a magical finale to our day.

Day 3: Explore Merzouga desert [80 km]

On the third day of our 5 days desert tour from Marrakech to Fes, we immerse ourselves in the desert cultural and natural wonders. Our first stop is with the indigenous Nomads, guardians of Morocco traditional way of life. Here, amidst the sweeping Saharan vistas at Glb Nass (the people heart), we soak in panoramic views and marvel at the grandeur of the desert dunes.

Continuing our exploration, we journey to M’lfiss, once home to a historic kohl mine under the French colonial empire. Our cultural journey then takes us to Khamlia, where we enjoy lunch and experience the vibrant music and dance of the Gnawa people. Originally from Mali and Gabon, the Gnawa have enriched Moroccan culture with their unique traditions. We conclude our day with a visit to the picturesque Oases of Hassi Labied, where lush greenery thrives amidst the desert landscape, offering a serene contrast to the arid surroundings. This day promises a deep dive into Morocco rich heritage and natural beauty, making it a highlight of our desert adventure from Marrakech to Fes.

Day 4: Merzouga Desert – Arfoud – Ziz Valley – Midelt [264 km]

After breakfast at our desert lodging, we set off for Midelt on the fourth day of our 5-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes. Our journey takes us through Rissani, home to one of southern Morocco largest traditional marketplaces, offering a vibrant cultural experience. Continuing to Erfoud, we stop at fossil workshops to marvel at ancient relics unearthed in the region.

Traversing Ziz Valley, renowned for its expansive date palm groves, we ascend Ait Chakr hill to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the lush landscapes below. Our route includes a visit to the Errachidia dam, a crucial water resource facility supporting local communities. By evening, we reach Midelt, where we conclude our day amidst this charming town nestled between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas mountain ranges, marking the end of our memorable desert adventure.

Day 5: Midelt – Azrou – Ifrane – Meknes – Fes [215 km]

The last day of our 5-day desert tour from Marrakech to Fes offers a unique excursion to one of Morocco royal cities. As we drive through the Atlas Mountains, our first stop is the Cedar Forest, offering a serene pause amidst ancient trees. Shortly after, we arrive in Meknes, where we begin with a visit to Sahrij Souani, the city’s central lake, followed by a walking tour through Lhdim Square and the impressive Bab Mansour gate.

Continuing our exploration, we head to Volubilis, the ancient capital of the Mauritanian monarchy, just a short drive from Meknes. Here, we delve into Morocco rich history before concluding our journey in Fes, where our unforgettable 5-day desert tour concludes. This day promises a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural insights, ensuring a fitting end to our exploration of Morocco diverse landscapes and heritage.