5 Days Tour from Fes to Marrakech
This 5-day desert tour journey from Fes to Marrakech offers an immersive adventure through some of Morocco’s most breathtaking landscapes. From the lush cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert, and from ancient kasbahs to the vibrant city of Marrakech, you’ll explore Morocco’s natural beauty, rich culture, and historic landmarks. Let’s break down each day of this unforgettable trip!
Day 1: Fes to Merzouga – Middle Atlas Mountains and Ziz Valley
Morning Departure from Fes: Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Fes. The road takes you through the beautiful Middle Atlas Mountains, with scenic landscapes and fascinating stops along the way.
Ifrane – Little Switzerland:
Your first stop will be in the alpine town of Ifrane, often called “Little Switzerland” for its European-style architecture and lush surroundings. You’ll enjoy a short stroll through this clean, peaceful town.
Azrou and Cedar Forests: Next, you’ll travel through Azrou, famous for its cedar forests, which are home to the playful Barbary apes. Stop for a photo opportunity and take a break to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the forest.
Lunch in Midelt: Continue your journey to Midelt, a small town known for its apple orchards and mountain views. You’ll enjoy lunch here and stretch your legs before heading toward the desert.
Ziz Valley and Arrival in Merzouga: After lunch, drive through the scenic Ziz Valley, known for its extensive palm groves and dramatic rocky landscapes. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes.
Camel Trek into the Desert: Once you arrive in Merzouga, you’ll embark on a camel trek into the Sahara Desert, riding through the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi as the sun sets. The colors of the desert during sunset create a magical atmosphere.
Night in a Desert Camp: After your camel trek, you’ll arrive at a Berber camp nestled in the dunes. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars and listen to Berber music by the campfire. Spend the night in a comfortable desert tent, fully equipped for a cozy stay.
Day 2: Full Day in Merzouga – Exploring the Sahara Desert
Sunrise Over the Dunes: Start your day with a stunning sunrise over the Sahara Desert. The soft morning light turning the dunes golden is a moment to remember.
Exploring the Merzouga Region: After breakfast at the camp, spend the day exploring the desert and surrounding areas. You can visit Khamlia, a nearby village known for its Gnawa music, or meet a traditional Berber nomadic family and learn about their lifestyle.
Adventure Activities: For those seeking a bit of adventure, there are options to try quad biking or sandboarding on the dunes. These activities offer an exhilarating way to experience the desert landscape.
Night at the Desert Camp: In the evening, return to your desert camp for another night under the stars. Enjoy a second traditional dinner and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the Sahara.
Day 3: Merzouga to Dades Valley – Todra Gorge and Berber Villages
Camel Ride Back to Merzouga: Begin the day with a camel ride back to the village of Merzouga. After breakfast, you’ll continue your journey toward the Dades Valley.
Todra Gorge: Your first stop today will be the magnificent Todra Gorge, a massive canyon with towering rock walls that rise up to 300 meters. You’ll have time to explore the gorge, take a walk along the river, and admire the dramatic landscape.
Dades Valley – The Road of a Thousand Kasbahs: After visiting Todra Gorge, you’ll continue driving through the scenic Dades Valley, known as the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” for its abundance of historic fortresses and kasbahs. The route is filled with beautiful landscapes and unique rock formations. You’ll spend the night in a hotel or guesthouse in the valley, enjoying a traditional dinner.
Day 4: Dades Valley to Ouarzazate – Skoura and Aït Benhaddou
Morning in Dades Valley: After breakfast, take some time to explore the Dades Valley, known for its impressive gorges, kasbahs, and Berber villages. You’ll then continue your journey toward Ouarzazate.
Skoura Oasis: On the way to Ouarzazate, you’ll pass through the Skoura Oasis, a beautiful palm grove lined with ancient kasbahs. You can stop to explore some of these historic fortresses and enjoy the greenery of the oasis.
Kasbah Aït Benhaddou – UNESCO World Heritage Site: Your next stop is the iconic Kasbah Aït Benhaddou, one of Morocco’s most famous fortified villages and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient ksar has been used as a filming location for many famous movies, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Spend time exploring the narrow streets of this incredible structure and climbing to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Night in Ouarzazate: You’ll spend the night in Ouarzazate, also known as the “Gateway to the Desert.” Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel and a traditional Moroccan dinner.
Day 5: Ouarzazate to Marrakech – High Atlas Mountains
Crossing the High Atlas Mountains: After breakfast, you’ll start your journey to Marrakech by crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys below, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and admire the dramatic landscape.
Arrival in Marrakech: By late afternoon or early evening, you’ll arrive in the vibrant city of Marrakech, where your tour concludes. You’ll be dropped off at your accommodation, bringing your 5-day adventure from Fes to Marrakech to an end.
What’s Included: 5 days marrakech to fes desert tour
- Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- English-speaking driver/guide
- Camel trekking in Merzouga
- 2 nights in a desert camp (with dinner and breakfast)
- 2 nights in hotels (with dinner and breakfast)
- Dinner on Days 1, 2, 3, and 4; breakfast on Days 2, 3, 4, and 5
This 5-day tour from Fes to Marrakech offers an incredible mix of culture, adventure, and natural beauty. From the towering Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of the Sahara, and from ancient kasbahs to the vibrant city of Marrakech, this journey showcases Morocco’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage. Whether you’re riding camels through the desert or exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites, this tour promises memories that will last a lifetime. Ready to explore the magic of Morocco?