Experience an unforgettable 5 days tour from Marrakech to Fes through the heart of Morocco. Discover the majestic High Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, lush valleys, dramatic canyons, and the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. Enjoy a camel trek across Erg Chebbi, spend a magical night in a desert camp, meet nomad families, and explore authentic Berber villages. This tour offers the perfect balance of culture, adventure, history, and breathtaking landscapes while connecting Morocco’s two imperial cities.
Highlights – 5 days tour from Marrakech to Fes
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains via Tizi n’Tichka Pass
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou
- Explore Ouarzazate and Skoura Oasis
- Discover Rose Valley and Dades Valley
- Walk through the spectacular Todra Gorge
- Camel trekking across the Erg Chebbi dunes
- Watch a magical Sahara sunset and sunrise
- Overnight stay in a traditional desert camp
- Visit nomad families and Khamlia village
- Explore the desert region of Merzouga
- Drive through the magnificent Ziz Valley
- Visit cedar forests and Ifrane
- Arrive in the imperial city of Fes
Itinerary – 5 days tour from Marrakech to Fes
Day 1: Marrakech – Ait Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley
After breakfast, depart Marrakech and begin your journey towards the breathtaking landscapes of southern Morocco. First, travel through the magnificent High Atlas Mountains, where winding roads reveal stunning views of valleys, traditional Berber villages, and rugged mountain peaks. Next, cross the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest mountain pass in Morocco at an altitude of 2,260 meters. Along the way, stop at panoramic viewpoints to admire the spectacular scenery and capture memorable photographs. Then, continue to the remarkable Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most famous fortified villages. Explore its ancient earthen buildings, narrow alleyways, and historic kasbahs. Meanwhile, learn about its fascinating history and its role as a filming location for many international movies and television productions.
Afterward, travel to Ouarzazate, often referred to as the Gateway to the Sahara. Enjoy a short stop to appreciate the city’s unique desert atmosphere before continuing your adventure. Later, drive through the beautiful Skoura Oasis, renowned for its vast palm groves and traditional kasbahs hidden among the greenery. Then, continue through the picturesque Rose Valley, famous for its fragrant roses, charming villages, and stunning landscapes. As the day unfolds, enjoy the changing scenery of southern Morocco, where fertile valleys contrast beautifully with rocky desert terrain. Finally, arrive in the spectacular Dades Valley, known for its dramatic rock formations and lush surroundings. In the evening, check into your hotel and enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner. Afterwards, relax and spend a peaceful overnight stay in the heart of Dades Valley.
Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorge – Merzouga Desert
After breakfast, leave the beautiful Dades Valley and continue your journey towards the Sahara Desert. First, travel through a series of traditional Berber villages and scenic landscapes that showcase the authentic charm of southern Morocco. Next, arrive at the spectacular Todra Gorge, one of the country’s most impressive natural wonders. Take time to walk through the canyon and admire the towering cliffs that rise dramatically on both sides. Meanwhile, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking scenery that make this gorge a favorite destination for visitors from around the world. Afterward, continue through the lush palm groves of Tinghir and pass small villages surrounded by fertile fields and date palms. As you travel further south, watch the landscape gradually change from green valleys to vast desert plains.
Later, arrive in Merzouga, a charming desert village located at the edge of the magnificent Erg Chebbi dunes. Here, prepare for one of the highlights of your Moroccan adventure. Meet your camel caravan and begin an unforgettable trek across the golden sands of the Sahara. As the afternoon progresses, ride deeper into the dunes while enjoying the silence and beauty of the desert. Then, stop atop a high dune to witness a breathtaking sunset. Watch as the sky fills with shades of gold, orange, and red while the dunes glow under the fading sunlight. Finally, arrive at your desert camp nestled among the dunes. Enjoy a delicious traditional Moroccan dinner before gathering around the campfire for Berber music and entertainment. Afterwards, relax beneath a sky filled with countless stars and spend a magical overnight stay in the heart of the Sahara Desert.
Day 3: Merzouga Desert Excursion
Wake up early to witness a magnificent sunrise over the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the vast landscape, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and admire the ever-changing colors of the sand. Afterwards, return to the camp for breakfast before beginning a full day of exploration in the Merzouga region. First, visit local nomad families and gain insight into their traditional way of life in the desert. Learn about their customs, daily activities, and centuries-old traditions while experiencing the warm hospitality for which the region is known. Next, continue to Khamlia, a small village famous for its unique cultural heritage and traditional Gnawa music. Here, enjoy a lively performance featuring rhythmic drums, spiritual songs, and African-inspired melodies that reflect the village’s rich history.
Afterward, explore the fascinating desert landscapes surrounding Merzouga. Travel across vast plains, discover fossil-rich areas, and admire panoramic views of the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes. Along the way, experience the beauty and diversity of the Sahara while learning about the region’s natural and cultural treasures. Later, return to your hotel near the dunes and enjoy some time to relax. You may unwind by the pool, take a stroll through the peaceful surroundings, or simply admire the stunning desert scenery. As evening approaches, enjoy another beautiful sunset over the dunes. Finally, savor a traditional Moroccan dinner at the hotel. Afterwards, relax beneath the clear desert sky and spend a comfortable overnight stay near the majestic dunes of Merzouga.
Day 4: Merzouga – Rissani – Erfoud – Merzouga
After breakfast, begin a fascinating excursion to discover the cultural and historical treasures of the Merzouga region. First, travel to Rissani, a historic town considered the cradle of the Alaouite dynasty and one of the most important trading centers in southeastern Morocco. If your visit coincides with a market day, explore the traditional souk, where locals gather to trade livestock, spices, dates, handicrafts, and everyday goods. Meanwhile, enjoy the authentic atmosphere and experience a side of Morocco that has remained largely unchanged for generations. Next, continue to Erfoud, a town renowned for its fossil industry and exceptional date production. Visit a local fossil workshop to learn how ancient marine fossils are transformed into decorative objects and works of art. Afterwards, discover why the region is famous for producing some of Morocco’s finest dates.
Later, return to the Merzouga area and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your hotel near the dunes. Take advantage of the peaceful surroundings and admire the breathtaking views of the Sahara Desert. For those seeking additional adventure, an optional quad bike excursion across the dunes can be arranged. As the day continues, enjoy free time to unwind by the pool, stroll along the edge of the dunes, or simply soak in the tranquility of the desert landscape. In the evening, witness another spectacular sunset as the golden sands glow beneath the fading light. Finally, enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner at your hotel. Afterwards, relax under the clear desert sky and spend a comfortable overnight stay near the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Day 5: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Ifrane – Fes
After breakfast, leave the golden dunes of Merzouga behind and begin your journey towards the imperial city of Fes. First, travel through the spectacular desert landscapes of southeastern Morocco, where rocky plateaus and palm-filled valleys create unforgettable scenery. Next, pass through the magnificent Ziz Valley, one of Morocco’s largest and most beautiful oasis regions. Stop at panoramic viewpoints to admire thousands of palm trees stretching across the valley floor. Meanwhile, enjoy breathtaking views of traditional villages and ancient kasbahs surrounded by lush greenery. Afterward, continue through Errachidia, an important regional city known for its desert landscapes and oasis culture. Then, travel north to Midelt, a peaceful town nestled between the High Atlas and Middle Atlas Mountains. Here, enjoy a break for lunch and take in the refreshing mountain atmosphere.
Later, continue across the scenic Middle Atlas Mountains, famous for their forests, rolling hills, and cooler climate. Along the route, stop at one of the region’s cedar forests, home to the famous Barbary macaques. Take time to observe these playful monkeys and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Then, visit Ifrane, a charming mountain town renowned for its European-style architecture, clean streets, and beautiful parks. Often called the “Switzerland of Morocco,” Ifrane offers a unique contrast to the desert landscapes explored during the previous days. Finally, continue to Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital. Arrive in the late afternoon or evening and transfer to your riad. End of your unforgettable journey from Marrakech to Fes through the Sahara Desert and the diverse landscapes of Morocco.
Included
- Private air-conditioned transportation
- Professional driver/guide
- 3 nights accommodation in hotels/riads
- 1 night in a Sahara desert camp
- Camel trek in Merzouga
- Daily breakfasts
- Dinners in Dades Valley, Merzouga, and desert camp
- Pick-up in Marrakech
- Drop-off in Fes
- Fuel and road taxes
Excluded
- Flights
- Lunches and drinks
- Monument entrance fees
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
FAQs – 5 days tour from Marrakech to Fes
Is the camel ride included?
Yes, the camel trek through the Erg Chebbi dunes is included.
Can I choose a luxury desert camp?
Yes, luxury camp upgrades are available upon request.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is suitable for couples, families, and small groups.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a jacket for cooler evenings.
How far is Merzouga from Marrakech?
The distance is approximately 560 km, divided over several scenic days with numerous sightseeing stops.
What is the best season for this tour?
Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures, although the tour operates throughout the year.