4 Days Tour From Fes To Marrakech

Day 1: Fes to Merzouga – Through the Middle Atlas Mountains

Departure from Fes – The Gateway to the Desert Adventure

The tour begins early in the morning with departure from the ancient city of Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history, intricate architecture, and lively souks. Leaving behind the bustling medina, the journey takes you south towards the serene Middle Atlas Mountains.

Ifrane – The Alpine Town of Morocco

Your first stop is the picturesque town of Ifrane, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its European-style buildings and clean, well-kept streets. This town, located at a high altitude, offers a refreshing change in scenery with its cool climate and verdant landscapes. It’s a peaceful spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the unique atmosphere.

Azrou – The Cedar Forest and Barbary Apes

As you continue through the Middle Atlas, you’ll pass through Azrou, home to Morocco’s famous cedar forests. This lush forest is home to the Barbary apes, and you’ll have the chance to interact with these curious creatures in their natural habitat. The towering cedar trees, combined with the playful apes, make this a great stop for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Midelt – Lunch in the Apple Capital

The journey continues to Midelt, a small town known for its apple orchards. Nestled between the Middle and High Atlas mountains, Midelt offers beautiful views and a perfect stop for a traditional Moroccan lunch. Afterward, you’ll continue driving through breathtaking landscapes as the mountains give way to more arid surroundings.

Ziz Valley – A Green Oasis in the Desert

Descending from the mountains, you enter the Ziz Valley, a long ribbon of green that cuts through the desert. The valley is lined with date palms and dotted with kasbahs (traditional fortresses), creating a striking contrast with the surrounding rocky desert. As you travel through the valley, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of this beautiful oasis.

Arrival in Merzouga – The Gateway to the Sahara

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, a small village on the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes, some of the highest and most impressive dunes in the Sahara Desert. The towering golden sand dunes create a dramatic landscape, setting the stage for an unforgettable desert adventure.

Camel Trek into the Sahara

As the sun begins to set, you’ll embark on a camel trek into the heart of the Sahara. Following ancient caravan routes, you’ll ride camels through the golden dunes, watching as the desert landscape is bathed in warm hues of orange and red. The trek leads to a traditional Berber camp, where you’ll spend the night under the stars.

Dinner and Berber Entertainment

At the desert camp, you’ll be welcomed with a delicious traditional Moroccan dinner. Afterward, you’ll enjoy live Berber music and storytelling around a campfire, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the desert night sky. The experience of sleeping in a Berber tent under a blanket of stars is one of the most magical parts of this journey.

Day 2: Merzouga – Exploring the Sahara

Sunrise Over the Erg Chebbi Dunes

The day begins with an early wake-up call to witness the sunrise over the Sahara Desert. The first light of the day paints the dunes in soft shades of pink and gold, creating an awe-inspiring scene. After soaking in the beauty of the desert morning, you’ll enjoy a traditional Berber breakfast at the camp.

4×4 Adventure Through the Sahara

After breakfast, the adventure continues with a 4×4 drive through the desert. You’ll explore the surrounding area, visiting hidden gems such as Nomad camps, small desert oases, and ancient fossil sites. You’ll also visit Khamlia Village, where you can experience the unique music and culture of the Gnawa people, descendants of African slaves who were brought to Morocco centuries ago.

Return to Merzouga and Relaxation

After the 4×4 excursion, you’ll return to Merzouga for a relaxing afternoon. You may choose to explore the village or try your hand at sandboarding down the dunes. The serene desert surroundings offer the perfect opportunity for relaxation and reflection.

Another Night in the Desert

For your second night in Merzouga, you’ll either stay in a desert hotel or spend another night at the Berber camp, depending on your preferences. Enjoy another delicious Moroccan dinner and take in the peaceful ambiance of the desert under the stars.

Day 3: Merzouga to Dades Valley – Through the High Atlas Mountains

Breakfast and Departure from Merzouga

After another desert sunrise and breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to the Sahara and begin your journey toward the Dades Valley. The road leads you through dramatic desert landscapes as you travel north toward the High Atlas Mountains.

Rissani – The Ancient Market Town

On the way to the Dades Valley, you’ll stop in Rissani, a historic town that was once a major trading post on the trans-Saharan trade routes. Rissani’s bustling souk (market) is a great place to explore local crafts, spices, and textiles. The town is also known for its ancient ksars (fortified villages) and impressive ruins.

Todra Gorge – A Natural Wonder

Next, you’ll visit the stunning Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon carved by the Todra River. The towering rock walls, reaching heights of up to 300 meters, create a breathtaking natural landscape. You’ll have time to walk through the gorge and take in its awe-inspiring beauty, making it a popular spot for photography and exploration.

Dades Valley – The Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in the Dades Valley, often referred to as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs” due to the many traditional fortresses that line the valley. The Dades Valley is also known for its rugged rock formations and fertile farmland, making it one of the most scenic parts of the journey. You’ll spend the night in a guesthouse in the valley, where a traditional Moroccan dinner awaits.

Day 4: Dades Valley to Marrakech – Crossing the High Atlas Mountains

Tizi n’Tichka Pass – The Gateway to Marrakech

After breakfast in the Dades Valley, the final day of your tour takes you across the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest major mountain pass in North Africa. The winding road offers spectacular views of the mountains, valleys, and traditional Berber villages perched on the hillsides. The drive is filled with scenic photo opportunities and glimpses of Morocco’s rural life.

Ouarzazate – The Hollywood of Morocco

Your next stop is Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco” due to its role as a filming location for many famous movies and TV shows, such as “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones.” You’ll visit the famous Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s best-preserved kasbahs. This ancient fortress has stood the test of time and offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history.

Arrival in Marrakech – The Red City

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Marrakech, Morocco’s most vibrant and bustling city. Known as the Red City due to its distinctive red sandstone buildings, Marrakech is a blend of old-world charm and modern energy. Your tour ends here, but there’s plenty to explore in this dynamic city, from the lively souks of the Medina to the tranquil gardens and palaces.